"O give thanks unto the LORD, for he is good: for his mercy endureth for ever" (Psalm 107:1).
Looking
around at the negative, tragic events that occur almost daily, one
might think there is no reason to give thanks to God. But there is!
In spite of all the devastation of property, loss of lives, and
emotional despair, God is still good and if it was not for His mercy, I
would not be writing this morning and no one would be reading this!
Glory to God--Give Him praise!
I haven't lost my mind, but I do realize there are some things we cannot control and rather
than be resentful and bitter, I've decided to allow everything that
happens to make me a better person and certainly a more studious,
scholar of God's Word and intent for our lives.
We
all have a choice. We can allow the events of life to control us or we
can control our reactions and responses to the events of life. It is our
choice! I choose Jesus--through Him and His love, I can do all things
well--even with my responses to life's events.
While
we pray for those who have been displaced because of the storms,
heart-broken because of the loss of lives in a number of situations, let
us pray they will allow God to comfort hearts and allow Him to give
them insight to peace and forward movement. Let's pray for
more people using the events to get closer to God and come into a right
relationship with Him instead of being bitter towards God. O give Thanks to the Lord!
O
God, help us to be better and not bitter about those things we cannot
control. Help us to see good in everything that happens because there is
something good that can be found--to Your glory. Give us a heart of
compassion to help those in need and to encourage them to keep going.
This we ask in Jesus' name, Amen!
Wednesday, April 30, 2014
Tuesday, April 29, 2014
Good To All!
'The LORD is good to all: and his tender mercies are over all his works" (Psalm 145:9).
Sometimes, because of the things that occur in this world, we do not see The Lord being good to all, but we should.
Even in the darkest moments in some of our lives, we should be able to see The Lord's goodness as a pinpoint of light--no matter what happens.
As tragic as it is to see lives lost--from missing airplanes, to sinking ferries, to raging storms and those dying from illness and violence--there is yet hope for those who remain--that pinpoint of light.
Sometimes, it is difficult to focus on a pinpoint of light when darkness surrounds us, but if we focus on how good He is and how He is always with us, we can overcome--the depths and ravages of the darkness and rise to see the light and make this world a better place. We must always be able to see the good and His mercies in all things--no matter how dark things appear, we have to know that there is a light that will outshine all the darkness, when we focus on Him.
We have to know--that He is not a respecter of persons and that His Word applies to all who receive Him and acknowledge Him for who He is--the Bright Morning Star, the Rose of Sharon, The Great I Am, The God who fulfills all His promises, Our Healer and Protector and there is nothing too hard for Him to accomplish through us, no matter what.
Father, in the name of Jesus, help us to focus on the Light and not the darkness. Help us to become the arms and hearts of compassion seeing need and fulfilling whatever needs to be done for those who are hurting and devastated by things out of their control. Help us to be selfless in this time of need and remain prayerful and diligent in accomplishing all You on our hearts to do, to Your glory.
Sometimes, because of the things that occur in this world, we do not see The Lord being good to all, but we should.
Even in the darkest moments in some of our lives, we should be able to see The Lord's goodness as a pinpoint of light--no matter what happens.
As tragic as it is to see lives lost--from missing airplanes, to sinking ferries, to raging storms and those dying from illness and violence--there is yet hope for those who remain--that pinpoint of light.
Sometimes, it is difficult to focus on a pinpoint of light when darkness surrounds us, but if we focus on how good He is and how He is always with us, we can overcome--the depths and ravages of the darkness and rise to see the light and make this world a better place. We must always be able to see the good and His mercies in all things--no matter how dark things appear, we have to know that there is a light that will outshine all the darkness, when we focus on Him.
We have to know--that He is not a respecter of persons and that His Word applies to all who receive Him and acknowledge Him for who He is--the Bright Morning Star, the Rose of Sharon, The Great I Am, The God who fulfills all His promises, Our Healer and Protector and there is nothing too hard for Him to accomplish through us, no matter what.
Father, in the name of Jesus, help us to focus on the Light and not the darkness. Help us to become the arms and hearts of compassion seeing need and fulfilling whatever needs to be done for those who are hurting and devastated by things out of their control. Help us to be selfless in this time of need and remain prayerful and diligent in accomplishing all You on our hearts to do, to Your glory.
Monday, April 28, 2014
Salt-Soddened Heart!
My heart is crying, overwhelmed with life
Watching the suffering of many, the constant strife
Between others--mothers, and children, husbands and wives
Nation against nation, no one carrying about the lives
Of people who feel--misery and pain,
Lost, with no more to lose and nothing else to gain,
The salt seeps into each muscle and tendon,
Navigating its way through each ventricle and back,
Saturating all the tissue which holds the emotions
In check, no longer able to reasonably resist
Giving in to those thoughts and feelings that created
The mess of lives and nations galore,
My heart is crying, deeply saddened and sodden
By all the salt--meant to preserve, but now burns
As I watch how one thing after the other turns,
Into chaos and confusion!
My heart is crying!
Watching the suffering of many, the constant strife
Between others--mothers, and children, husbands and wives
Nation against nation, no one carrying about the lives
Of people who feel--misery and pain,
Lost, with no more to lose and nothing else to gain,
The salt seeps into each muscle and tendon,
Navigating its way through each ventricle and back,
Saturating all the tissue which holds the emotions
In check, no longer able to reasonably resist
Giving in to those thoughts and feelings that created
The mess of lives and nations galore,
My heart is crying, deeply saddened and sodden
By all the salt--meant to preserve, but now burns
As I watch how one thing after the other turns,
Into chaos and confusion!
My heart is crying!
Blessed--Hearing and Obeying!
"He replied, “Blessed rather are those who hear the word of God and obey it” (Luke 11:28 NIV).
This is the response Jesus gave the crowd when a woman yelled, "Blessed is the woman who gave birth to you and nursed you" (paraphrased from vs. 27).
Here we see another attempt to venerate His mother by humans when God has already placed Mary in high esteem, but not higher than the Son. Before Jesus was born, Mary was chosen and the angel from the Lord told her she was blessed and highly favored. We must get our priorities straight because if we do not, we continue to glorify those who have not been chosen by God to receive such high esteem.
Rather than seeing "just" His mother as blessed, Jesus responded that the truly blessed are those who hear and obey God's Word. Understanding this--how we are blessed--we can now eliminate the need "to pray or pay" for a blessing from God. We can ignore those who attempt to make us believe that God's blessings come from how much money we give or how we pray (positionally). We are blessed when we "hear and obey" God's Word!
When we hear and obey God's Word, we hear the Word saying, "Whatever you put your hands to, when you keep my commandments, will be blessed and you will have good success." We hear the Word saying, "Blessed is the peacemaker." We hear the Word saying, "Whatever you ask for, when you ask in my name, shall be given--when you do not doubt!" We hear the Word saying," For I know the plans I have for you, plans to prosper you and not to harm you." We hear The Word saying, "We are healed by His stripes." And the list could go on and on.
The point here is--when we hear and obey The Word--we are blessed and we are blessed to be a blessing to others. We shall have whatever we say (we hear ourselves talking) and stand on our faith to receive. Speak The Word over every situation in your life and Obey The Word and walk in the blessing and favor you have been given--doubting nothing God has said!
This is the response Jesus gave the crowd when a woman yelled, "Blessed is the woman who gave birth to you and nursed you" (paraphrased from vs. 27).
Here we see another attempt to venerate His mother by humans when God has already placed Mary in high esteem, but not higher than the Son. Before Jesus was born, Mary was chosen and the angel from the Lord told her she was blessed and highly favored. We must get our priorities straight because if we do not, we continue to glorify those who have not been chosen by God to receive such high esteem.
Rather than seeing "just" His mother as blessed, Jesus responded that the truly blessed are those who hear and obey God's Word. Understanding this--how we are blessed--we can now eliminate the need "to pray or pay" for a blessing from God. We can ignore those who attempt to make us believe that God's blessings come from how much money we give or how we pray (positionally). We are blessed when we "hear and obey" God's Word!
When we hear and obey God's Word, we hear the Word saying, "Whatever you put your hands to, when you keep my commandments, will be blessed and you will have good success." We hear the Word saying, "Blessed is the peacemaker." We hear the Word saying, "Whatever you ask for, when you ask in my name, shall be given--when you do not doubt!" We hear the Word saying," For I know the plans I have for you, plans to prosper you and not to harm you." We hear The Word saying, "We are healed by His stripes." And the list could go on and on.
The point here is--when we hear and obey The Word--we are blessed and we are blessed to be a blessing to others. We shall have whatever we say (we hear ourselves talking) and stand on our faith to receive. Speak The Word over every situation in your life and Obey The Word and walk in the blessing and favor you have been given--doubting nothing God has said!
Sunday, April 27, 2014
Healing Open Wounds!
Open wounds hurt
And take time to heal,
Allow Jesus to insert
His love, grace and mercy,
For which there is no appeal,
No need to apologize or regret
No need to rethink or contemplate
God from the beginning, knew our fate.
Knew when we would receive and believe,
How long it would take for us to realize
That there is only One who can take our hurts,
And heal our wounds, physically and spiritually,
Sealing them, not with stitches made by man,
But by His own hand, stitched mercy and grace
And no visible scar can be seen, by the enemy
Who thought he had us on the run, ready to laugh
And make fun of us when we slide and fall, but
Guess who gets the last laugh, now that we know
The truth and truth has set us free from all hurt
And though it may take awhile, we will heal and
Rise again to benefit all who are willing to hear
That Jesus saves and He'll dry that tear that falls
Not from fear or hurt, but joy overflowing into
The lives of all to come to know Him through us.
Remember His open wounds and that precious flow,
Of blood and water streaming from His side
So we can abide with Him in heaven for all eternity.
And take time to heal,
Allow Jesus to insert
His love, grace and mercy,
For which there is no appeal,
No need to apologize or regret
No need to rethink or contemplate
God from the beginning, knew our fate.
Knew when we would receive and believe,
How long it would take for us to realize
That there is only One who can take our hurts,
And heal our wounds, physically and spiritually,
Sealing them, not with stitches made by man,
But by His own hand, stitched mercy and grace
And no visible scar can be seen, by the enemy
Who thought he had us on the run, ready to laugh
And make fun of us when we slide and fall, but
Guess who gets the last laugh, now that we know
The truth and truth has set us free from all hurt
And though it may take awhile, we will heal and
Rise again to benefit all who are willing to hear
That Jesus saves and He'll dry that tear that falls
Not from fear or hurt, but joy overflowing into
The lives of all to come to know Him through us.
Remember His open wounds and that precious flow,
Of blood and water streaming from His side
So we can abide with Him in heaven for all eternity.
Saturday, April 26, 2014
Enjoy The Moment!
"The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I
have come that they may have life, and have it to the full" (John 10:10
NIV).
We know how to recognize the enemy--it's been told repeatedly, but know let's take a look at the other side of the coin-having life to the full or as the KJV states, "abundant life."
Unfortunately, so many Christians feel they have to be "somber and sour" (their version of holiness) and never enjoy life because if they did, they wouldn't be "saved." I have news for those who think that way. Once we are saved, born again, born anew--having become new creations in Christ, we should enjoy every moment we live--because we have access to eternity with the King of Kings and Lord of Lords! He intended for us to enjoy life!
We have been told to laugh--for laughter is like medicine and good for the soul. How can we laugh if we think we are too holy to laugh and enjoy life? Well, what we are waiting for today? Get up and out and find a reason to smile, laugh and enjoy life because we are expected to enjoy the abundant life He has given us.
I don't know about you, but I'm going to enjoy every moment of life on this side of heaven, no matter what the enemy does or attempts to do. I will not allow him to steal my joy and trust me, he tries, daily!
This is the day and this is the moment that I shall enjoy the joy of the Lord in everything I do and I will ignite the joy of the Lord in others so they will want to be in my presence! My proclamation for the day! Enjoy the moment--if we can't find any other reason to laugh, laugh at the devil and remind him that he has no power over our lives because we have victory in Jesus!
We know how to recognize the enemy--it's been told repeatedly, but know let's take a look at the other side of the coin-having life to the full or as the KJV states, "abundant life."
Unfortunately, so many Christians feel they have to be "somber and sour" (their version of holiness) and never enjoy life because if they did, they wouldn't be "saved." I have news for those who think that way. Once we are saved, born again, born anew--having become new creations in Christ, we should enjoy every moment we live--because we have access to eternity with the King of Kings and Lord of Lords! He intended for us to enjoy life!
We have been told to laugh--for laughter is like medicine and good for the soul. How can we laugh if we think we are too holy to laugh and enjoy life? Well, what we are waiting for today? Get up and out and find a reason to smile, laugh and enjoy life because we are expected to enjoy the abundant life He has given us.
I don't know about you, but I'm going to enjoy every moment of life on this side of heaven, no matter what the enemy does or attempts to do. I will not allow him to steal my joy and trust me, he tries, daily!
This is the day and this is the moment that I shall enjoy the joy of the Lord in everything I do and I will ignite the joy of the Lord in others so they will want to be in my presence! My proclamation for the day! Enjoy the moment--if we can't find any other reason to laugh, laugh at the devil and remind him that he has no power over our lives because we have victory in Jesus!
Friday, April 25, 2014
For Long Life!
"My son, forget not my law; but let thine heart keep my commandments: For length of days, and long life, and peace, shall they add to thee" (Proverbs 3:1,2).
There is a reason why we should keep God's commandments--long life, peace and prosperity (NIV).
Even though some will usually think of the "ten commandments" as given to Moses, Jesus summarized the ten into two. The first five address our relationship with God and authority and the other five address our relationships with each other. Love the Lord our God with all our heart, soul and mind; love our neighbors as ourselves (paraphrased).
What really brings this passage of scripture to life is remembering to "honor mother and father so our days will be long upon the earth" and looking at our society; we see what happens when parents/authority are not honored and respected--where there is no love, there is no respect.
Many people can enumerate the problems that plague our society with the attitudes of young people, but in our observations we are hesitant to place blame where it rightfully belongs--on the shoulders of parents who have not been responsible parents. Responsible parents teach children right from wrong and model that behavior in front of their children. If parents are not doing what they say, they are saying without power and certainly the children won't obey. This is not to say that all the ills of society are the responsibility of parents because some children--when they reach a certain age--ignore all their training and do what they want to do, "when they reach that certain age."
For any child (regardless of age) living under a roof with parents and their parents are their primary source of support, the rule of parents should reign (especially for Godly households). No child living with parents should ever be allowed to just do whatever they want whenever they want. When they do--we see the results of their lives on the news--"teenagers killed in the midst of a home invasion," "drug wars claim the lives of teens over territory dispute," "bodies of parents found in the home where teens lived and were angry at parents who wouldn't let them use their credit cards," and the list of insanity could go on and on.
The bottom line is this--when we love and respect authority and others--we are assured of long life, peace, and the opportunity to prosper while we live. Parents need to be parents, not friends and children need to respect and obey. Are we not children of the Most High? Then we should obey Our Father in all things and live long lives in peace and prosperity.
There is a reason why we should keep God's commandments--long life, peace and prosperity (NIV).
Even though some will usually think of the "ten commandments" as given to Moses, Jesus summarized the ten into two. The first five address our relationship with God and authority and the other five address our relationships with each other. Love the Lord our God with all our heart, soul and mind; love our neighbors as ourselves (paraphrased).
What really brings this passage of scripture to life is remembering to "honor mother and father so our days will be long upon the earth" and looking at our society; we see what happens when parents/authority are not honored and respected--where there is no love, there is no respect.
Many people can enumerate the problems that plague our society with the attitudes of young people, but in our observations we are hesitant to place blame where it rightfully belongs--on the shoulders of parents who have not been responsible parents. Responsible parents teach children right from wrong and model that behavior in front of their children. If parents are not doing what they say, they are saying without power and certainly the children won't obey. This is not to say that all the ills of society are the responsibility of parents because some children--when they reach a certain age--ignore all their training and do what they want to do, "when they reach that certain age."
For any child (regardless of age) living under a roof with parents and their parents are their primary source of support, the rule of parents should reign (especially for Godly households). No child living with parents should ever be allowed to just do whatever they want whenever they want. When they do--we see the results of their lives on the news--"teenagers killed in the midst of a home invasion," "drug wars claim the lives of teens over territory dispute," "bodies of parents found in the home where teens lived and were angry at parents who wouldn't let them use their credit cards," and the list of insanity could go on and on.
The bottom line is this--when we love and respect authority and others--we are assured of long life, peace, and the opportunity to prosper while we live. Parents need to be parents, not friends and children need to respect and obey. Are we not children of the Most High? Then we should obey Our Father in all things and live long lives in peace and prosperity.
Thursday, April 24, 2014
Seeking Hidden Treasure!
"indeed, if you call out for insight and cry aloud for understanding, and if you look for it as for silver and search for it as for hidden treasure, then you will understand the fear of the LORD and find the knowledge of God" (Proverbs 2:3-5 NIV).
More wisdom from Solomon!
If we sought insight and understanding with the same fervor and diligence that some seek silver and hidden treasures, we would understand what it means the fear of the Lord and find His knowledge.
Some seek means of obtaining wealth without regard to the means or how it affects others, but never seek knowledge of God.
Some seek hidden treasure beneath the seas, expending every resource they have and often the investment of others, never giving up, but the same people seldom seek God for direction.
Some seek immediate gratification and wealth in gambling--playing the lottery, in the casinos with such tenacity that it would be admirable if they sought God with the same tenacity.
There is a hidden treasure within each and every one of us that most miss because they overlook the map that God has prepared for us in His Word. We are His treasure, and when we seek Him, He gives us insight to things to come and brings back to our remembrance those things He has taught us and a world of wealth (not just money) is opened to us. We have a wealth of compassion and love, forgiveness and peace within, and an attitude of gratitude for all we have. We communicate with Him on a consistent basis because we know without Him, we are lost and we need Him to keep us on the path He has established for us.
The treasure we seek, when we seek Him for direction does not remain hidden for long because when we operate with His wisdom and knowledge, the results are available for all to see. We have been given gifts--both naturally and spiritually--that most have never discovered--their treasure. Seek Him now to reveal the gifts He has given and learn to use them to His glory! We are His treasure (2 Corinthians 4:7 and Exodus 19:5)!
If we are amazed with all that God has created considered the "natural wonders of the world" then operating in the gifts He has given, would truly be a source of amazement. We are His gifts to the world when we do what He has asked us to do so through us, the world might come to know Him and His love and peace would prevail in all the land.
More wisdom from Solomon!
If we sought insight and understanding with the same fervor and diligence that some seek silver and hidden treasures, we would understand what it means the fear of the Lord and find His knowledge.
Some seek means of obtaining wealth without regard to the means or how it affects others, but never seek knowledge of God.
Some seek hidden treasure beneath the seas, expending every resource they have and often the investment of others, never giving up, but the same people seldom seek God for direction.
Some seek immediate gratification and wealth in gambling--playing the lottery, in the casinos with such tenacity that it would be admirable if they sought God with the same tenacity.
There is a hidden treasure within each and every one of us that most miss because they overlook the map that God has prepared for us in His Word. We are His treasure, and when we seek Him, He gives us insight to things to come and brings back to our remembrance those things He has taught us and a world of wealth (not just money) is opened to us. We have a wealth of compassion and love, forgiveness and peace within, and an attitude of gratitude for all we have. We communicate with Him on a consistent basis because we know without Him, we are lost and we need Him to keep us on the path He has established for us.
The treasure we seek, when we seek Him for direction does not remain hidden for long because when we operate with His wisdom and knowledge, the results are available for all to see. We have been given gifts--both naturally and spiritually--that most have never discovered--their treasure. Seek Him now to reveal the gifts He has given and learn to use them to His glory! We are His treasure (2 Corinthians 4:7 and Exodus 19:5)!
If we are amazed with all that God has created considered the "natural wonders of the world" then operating in the gifts He has given, would truly be a source of amazement. We are His gifts to the world when we do what He has asked us to do so through us, the world might come to know Him and His love and peace would prevail in all the land.
Wednesday, April 23, 2014
Chosen, Not Rejected!
"I took you from the ends of the earth, from its farthest
corners I called you. I said, ‘You are my servant’; I have chosen you
and have not rejected you" (Isaiah 41:9 NIV)
Spoken through the prophet, God reminded the descendants of Abraham they had no need to fear other nations because He had chosen them and not rejected them. That Word is still relevant to the spiritual descendants of Abraham, just as it was to the natural descendants of Abraham.
The Lord our God, has called us--from every corner of the earth, every nationality, every culture, every gender, the spiritual seed of Abraham--into a personal relationship with Him and to promote the glorious Good News of the Gospel of Jesus Christ. We have no need to fear what the enemy does or plans to do. God is with us and with Him, He is more than enough to squash all the deeds of the enemy.
If we know that our God is with us--everywhere we go--we have to no need to fear--anything or anyone. If we are capable of loving, unconditionally, we cast fear aside and face all we need to do with determination and courage, knowing that we can do all things through Him who loves us. If we know that the enemy will rise up against--especially if we are living the life that God wants us to live--we should also know that he has already been defeated and we have the power to keep him under our feet.
The enemy that rages against God and all that God has planned has been defeated, but he loves to use people--vulnerable, arrogant, insensitive, those without a conscience to create havoc and chaos and stir up fear in the hearts of those who want to do what is right. When those he uses are defeated and fade away, he goes after others who have lost sight of their faith in God and have become fearful.
The enemy's influence is seen in all who defy God and choose to live however they want to live. His influence can be seen from the heights of authority of power to the depths of the gutters where those who lay, totally ignorant of the events around them, are only concerned with appeasing flesh. In America--from the White House--to the dope den and all places in between, we see the enemy's influence. We see how he turns the hearts of politicians from serving the needs of the poor. We see how caving to the pressure of political correctness attempt to change God's Word. We see how maniacal attitudes--swing from end of the spectrum to the other--fight for the lives of unborn children, yet promote access to killing people with guns in the hands of every lunatic. We see--every day the plans of the enemy unfold as he attempts to quickly rid the world of all God has created because he hates all God has created.
But don't fear what the enemy can do because his time is nearing an end. Be more concerned with severing a relationship with God that saves, cleanses, and makes whole. Don't risk losing eternal life with the One who loves for the one who hates. God is love and Satan is hate--and we recognize the influence of both in all we see people say and do. We have been chosen from the beginning to promote love, so let's do that and reject hate!
Spoken through the prophet, God reminded the descendants of Abraham they had no need to fear other nations because He had chosen them and not rejected them. That Word is still relevant to the spiritual descendants of Abraham, just as it was to the natural descendants of Abraham.
The Lord our God, has called us--from every corner of the earth, every nationality, every culture, every gender, the spiritual seed of Abraham--into a personal relationship with Him and to promote the glorious Good News of the Gospel of Jesus Christ. We have no need to fear what the enemy does or plans to do. God is with us and with Him, He is more than enough to squash all the deeds of the enemy.
If we know that our God is with us--everywhere we go--we have to no need to fear--anything or anyone. If we are capable of loving, unconditionally, we cast fear aside and face all we need to do with determination and courage, knowing that we can do all things through Him who loves us. If we know that the enemy will rise up against--especially if we are living the life that God wants us to live--we should also know that he has already been defeated and we have the power to keep him under our feet.
The enemy that rages against God and all that God has planned has been defeated, but he loves to use people--vulnerable, arrogant, insensitive, those without a conscience to create havoc and chaos and stir up fear in the hearts of those who want to do what is right. When those he uses are defeated and fade away, he goes after others who have lost sight of their faith in God and have become fearful.
The enemy's influence is seen in all who defy God and choose to live however they want to live. His influence can be seen from the heights of authority of power to the depths of the gutters where those who lay, totally ignorant of the events around them, are only concerned with appeasing flesh. In America--from the White House--to the dope den and all places in between, we see the enemy's influence. We see how he turns the hearts of politicians from serving the needs of the poor. We see how caving to the pressure of political correctness attempt to change God's Word. We see how maniacal attitudes--swing from end of the spectrum to the other--fight for the lives of unborn children, yet promote access to killing people with guns in the hands of every lunatic. We see--every day the plans of the enemy unfold as he attempts to quickly rid the world of all God has created because he hates all God has created.
But don't fear what the enemy can do because his time is nearing an end. Be more concerned with severing a relationship with God that saves, cleanses, and makes whole. Don't risk losing eternal life with the One who loves for the one who hates. God is love and Satan is hate--and we recognize the influence of both in all we see people say and do. We have been chosen from the beginning to promote love, so let's do that and reject hate!
Tuesday, April 22, 2014
How He Gets Things Done!
"So he said to me, “This is the word of the LORD to Zerubbabel: ‘Not by might nor by power, but by my Spirit,’ says the LORD Almighty (Zechariah 4:6 NIV).
None of us are so great that we can accomplish everything we want to do. Wars are not won by the number of people in an army, the number of weapons one has, or even the intellect of those commanding the army. Of course we don't want to admit this, but if we look at scripture, throughout the ages, God has determined the outcome of every situation before it began.
Perhaps the greatest illustration--from the scriptures--is the story of Gideon and the how God led him into reducing the number of men he had with him before he went into battle. God wanted Gideon and those around him to know that when God is the plan, He can take a little and do much.
From history--in America--a handful of people (figuratively speaking) won their freedom from an established country and began a new life--governing themselves.
In each of our lives, if we closely examine events and remember the odds against us at some point, we'd recognize that it was not us--by use of our intellect or ingenuity that helped us to achieve, but God in the midst of everything. We have battled illness, poverty, family chaos, addictions, and even doubt and unbelief--and we have been victorious! It was not our might or power but the Spirit of the living God that made it all possible! It is by His spirit that He accomplishes all for our benefit and if we listen to His spirit, we shall always be victorious! This is how He gets things done!
When He speaks, hear and obey. When He guides, let Him lead. When He opens doors, step through in faith and know all that He desires for us, will be accomplished, when we listen to Him.
Listening to naysayers who do not have the faith that we have will always lead--to nothing but frustration and doubt and unbelief. By faith--change the mind of the naysayers; by faith--do all that God has told us to do; by faith--move into the next level of victory so all may know we serve the Living God and He cannot fail. And since He cannot fail, we win in all we do with Him!
Father, in the name of Jesus, help us move self out of the way and know true victory in You by hearing and obeying Your Spirit who speaks to us, guiding us in all we need to do.
None of us are so great that we can accomplish everything we want to do. Wars are not won by the number of people in an army, the number of weapons one has, or even the intellect of those commanding the army. Of course we don't want to admit this, but if we look at scripture, throughout the ages, God has determined the outcome of every situation before it began.
Perhaps the greatest illustration--from the scriptures--is the story of Gideon and the how God led him into reducing the number of men he had with him before he went into battle. God wanted Gideon and those around him to know that when God is the plan, He can take a little and do much.
From history--in America--a handful of people (figuratively speaking) won their freedom from an established country and began a new life--governing themselves.
In each of our lives, if we closely examine events and remember the odds against us at some point, we'd recognize that it was not us--by use of our intellect or ingenuity that helped us to achieve, but God in the midst of everything. We have battled illness, poverty, family chaos, addictions, and even doubt and unbelief--and we have been victorious! It was not our might or power but the Spirit of the living God that made it all possible! It is by His spirit that He accomplishes all for our benefit and if we listen to His spirit, we shall always be victorious! This is how He gets things done!
When He speaks, hear and obey. When He guides, let Him lead. When He opens doors, step through in faith and know all that He desires for us, will be accomplished, when we listen to Him.
Listening to naysayers who do not have the faith that we have will always lead--to nothing but frustration and doubt and unbelief. By faith--change the mind of the naysayers; by faith--do all that God has told us to do; by faith--move into the next level of victory so all may know we serve the Living God and He cannot fail. And since He cannot fail, we win in all we do with Him!
Father, in the name of Jesus, help us move self out of the way and know true victory in You by hearing and obeying Your Spirit who speaks to us, guiding us in all we need to do.
Monday, April 21, 2014
When We'll Know!
"To the Jews who had believed him, Jesus said, “If you hold to my teaching, you are really my disciples. Then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free” (John 8:31, 32 NIV).
What Jesus said to those who believed Him, those who followed Him, when He was here in the form of physical man, still holds true today. "If" we hold to His teaching (what the Father said to Him), we are really His disciples and "then" we will know the truth and the truth will set us free.
This "if, then" proposition is simply one of many we find in The Word. If we do, then God does. There is no mystery, no magic, just understanding of obedience and how God's principles work in our lives. We must do, then He will do--everything He promised--no matter whether the consequences are good or bad.
God's promise to us through Joshua--"If you keep my commandments, then whatever you put your hands to will prosper."
God's promises to us through Deuteronomy 28--If we keep His commandments and obey, then blessings will overtake us. If we do not obey, then all of the curses will come upon us, even to those not yet named.
Moving forward--"If you love, keep my commandments. If my Word abides in you and you abide in my Word, then, ask what you will and it will be done for you."
We'll know we have a right relationship with God, when we keep His commandments and see His promises fulfilled in our lives. Then we'll know the power we have over the enemy and know we have been set free from submitting to his temptation. When we have a relationship with God, then He can speak to our hearts and guide us in all things, knowing we are His children and He only wants only what is best for His children. When we know we have obeyed and know we have that relationship, then we can be assured of receiving His guidance and cementing the promise of eternal life.
Father, in the name of Jesus, help us to understand what we must do in order to be in Your perfect Will, receiving all You have for us to do and enjoy. Help us to receive Truth and be set free from the snares of the enemy and know without a doubt that we will spend eternity with You.
What Jesus said to those who believed Him, those who followed Him, when He was here in the form of physical man, still holds true today. "If" we hold to His teaching (what the Father said to Him), we are really His disciples and "then" we will know the truth and the truth will set us free.
This "if, then" proposition is simply one of many we find in The Word. If we do, then God does. There is no mystery, no magic, just understanding of obedience and how God's principles work in our lives. We must do, then He will do--everything He promised--no matter whether the consequences are good or bad.
God's promise to us through Joshua--"If you keep my commandments, then whatever you put your hands to will prosper."
God's promises to us through Deuteronomy 28--If we keep His commandments and obey, then blessings will overtake us. If we do not obey, then all of the curses will come upon us, even to those not yet named.
Moving forward--"If you love, keep my commandments. If my Word abides in you and you abide in my Word, then, ask what you will and it will be done for you."
We'll know we have a right relationship with God, when we keep His commandments and see His promises fulfilled in our lives. Then we'll know the power we have over the enemy and know we have been set free from submitting to his temptation. When we have a relationship with God, then He can speak to our hearts and guide us in all things, knowing we are His children and He only wants only what is best for His children. When we know we have obeyed and know we have that relationship, then we can be assured of receiving His guidance and cementing the promise of eternal life.
Father, in the name of Jesus, help us to understand what we must do in order to be in Your perfect Will, receiving all You have for us to do and enjoy. Help us to receive Truth and be set free from the snares of the enemy and know without a doubt that we will spend eternity with You.
Sunday, April 20, 2014
Resurrection Repayment!
He came into this world
Over 2000 years ago
To seek and to save all
Who are lost, unloved, lonely.
While He was here, fulfilling predestination
He healed all who believed
And they were set free of sin
Blindness, lameness, death and disease.
We crucified Him, He died, but He
Rose again to reign in the Heavens
For all eternity and how do we repay
The debt of love He freely gave
To all who believe and accept
His enduring, yet unearned mercy and grace?
By loving, unconditionally, whoever we meet
Honoring what He has done, is doing right now
Positioned, ready to receive all that eye has not seen
Nor ear heard what He has for us,
Unabashedly, proclaiming, "Jesus Christ is Lord,"
To all who will receive and accept
Our Father's good and perfect gift, His son.
(c) 2014 Mary M. Hall-Rayford
Over 2000 years ago
To seek and to save all
Who are lost, unloved, lonely.
While He was here, fulfilling predestination
He healed all who believed
And they were set free of sin
Blindness, lameness, death and disease.
We crucified Him, He died, but He
Rose again to reign in the Heavens
For all eternity and how do we repay
The debt of love He freely gave
To all who believe and accept
His enduring, yet unearned mercy and grace?
By loving, unconditionally, whoever we meet
Honoring what He has done, is doing right now
Positioned, ready to receive all that eye has not seen
Nor ear heard what He has for us,
Unabashedly, proclaiming, "Jesus Christ is Lord,"
To all who will receive and accept
Our Father's good and perfect gift, His son.
(c) 2014 Mary M. Hall-Rayford
He Has Risen!
"He is not here, but is risen: remember how he spake unto you when he was yet in Galilee,
Saying, The Son of man must be delivered into the hands of sinful men,
and be crucified, and the third day rise again" (Luke 24:6,7).
And this what the angels informed Mary Magdalene, Joanna, and Mary and other women who were with them (v.10), but when they told the other disciples, they were not believed. Peter went to the tomb and was amazed at not finding Jesus' body, but still had doubts.
How many people are still not believing in the resurrection of Jesus Christ? The women who were first at the tomb believed because of their personal relationship with Him. The disciples eventually believed when He confronted them. Has Jesus confronted you, yet?
This is a glorious day set aside to always recall the work on the cross and the promise kept--He would rise again and with His resurrection--hell has no more hold over any who receive Jesus as their Lord and Savior. He rose with all power in His hands and with Holy Spirit has given us the same power to overcome anything the enemy attempts to do to us.
We have the power to speak peace to any situation and dissuade chaos and confusion, to speak health to our bodies and see ourselves healed, to speak increase to our finances, and to speak love to all, for all and chase away fear.
Rejoice! He has risen and we have all we need in Him and through Him! Hallelujah!
And this what the angels informed Mary Magdalene, Joanna, and Mary and other women who were with them (v.10), but when they told the other disciples, they were not believed. Peter went to the tomb and was amazed at not finding Jesus' body, but still had doubts.
How many people are still not believing in the resurrection of Jesus Christ? The women who were first at the tomb believed because of their personal relationship with Him. The disciples eventually believed when He confronted them. Has Jesus confronted you, yet?
This is a glorious day set aside to always recall the work on the cross and the promise kept--He would rise again and with His resurrection--hell has no more hold over any who receive Jesus as their Lord and Savior. He rose with all power in His hands and with Holy Spirit has given us the same power to overcome anything the enemy attempts to do to us.
We have the power to speak peace to any situation and dissuade chaos and confusion, to speak health to our bodies and see ourselves healed, to speak increase to our finances, and to speak love to all, for all and chase away fear.
Rejoice! He has risen and we have all we need in Him and through Him! Hallelujah!
Saturday, April 19, 2014
Stand Firm!
"Whatever happens, conduct yourselves in a manner worthy
of the gospel of Christ. Then, whether I come and see you or only hear
about you in my absence, I will know that you stand firm in the one
Spirit, striving together as one for the faith of the gospel without
being frightened in any way by those who oppose you. This is a sign to
them that they will be destroyed, but that you will be saved—and that by
God" (Philippians 1:27,28 NIV).
In Paul's letter to the church at Philippi, he encouraged believers to stand firm in the knowledge that no matter who preached the Gospel or what happened; their faith would all work for the good of those who love Jesus.
The message is still relevant today--no matter what happens in the world, we should always conduct ourselves in a manner that is worthy of the gospel of Christ (nothing done that we need be ashamed of). With the turmoil and chaos in the world--immorality and total negation of God's Word, we who know the truth must stand firm--even in the midst of ridicule and scorn from those who have no clue. We know and we must stand firm in our belief--Jesus came, died, was buried, and rose again--that we might have eternal life.
Stand firm in your convictions of faith and don't be moved by the scorners because we know what their end will be. Don't allow the liars to convince you that your belief in God is misplaced. They do not know Him, have no clue as to what His plan for humanity is, and they certainly do not understand the influence they follow--the father of liars.
Don't be afraid of what the enemy attempts to do for he has no power over you as long as you remember that "no weapon formed against shall prosper" and that "we can do all things through Christ Jesus!" If the Lord reigns in your life, let Him lead you in all things and let no one cause you a moment of doubt. "For he who doubts is double-minded and shall receive nothing from God." But "no good thing shall be withheld from those who love the Lord."
Let the unbelieving go their way, if they will not hear and adhere to Truth. Their end has already been established and their behavior should in no way affect what you do. Stand firm, united by Holy Spirit, promoting the Gospel until the day He returns, without fear or doubt, knowing our mansions await us!
In Paul's letter to the church at Philippi, he encouraged believers to stand firm in the knowledge that no matter who preached the Gospel or what happened; their faith would all work for the good of those who love Jesus.
The message is still relevant today--no matter what happens in the world, we should always conduct ourselves in a manner that is worthy of the gospel of Christ (nothing done that we need be ashamed of). With the turmoil and chaos in the world--immorality and total negation of God's Word, we who know the truth must stand firm--even in the midst of ridicule and scorn from those who have no clue. We know and we must stand firm in our belief--Jesus came, died, was buried, and rose again--that we might have eternal life.
Stand firm in your convictions of faith and don't be moved by the scorners because we know what their end will be. Don't allow the liars to convince you that your belief in God is misplaced. They do not know Him, have no clue as to what His plan for humanity is, and they certainly do not understand the influence they follow--the father of liars.
Don't be afraid of what the enemy attempts to do for he has no power over you as long as you remember that "no weapon formed against shall prosper" and that "we can do all things through Christ Jesus!" If the Lord reigns in your life, let Him lead you in all things and let no one cause you a moment of doubt. "For he who doubts is double-minded and shall receive nothing from God." But "no good thing shall be withheld from those who love the Lord."
Let the unbelieving go their way, if they will not hear and adhere to Truth. Their end has already been established and their behavior should in no way affect what you do. Stand firm, united by Holy Spirit, promoting the Gospel until the day He returns, without fear or doubt, knowing our mansions await us!
Friday, April 18, 2014
No Quarreling Over Words!
"Keep reminding God’s people of these things. Warn them
before God against quarreling about words; it is of no value, and only
ruins those who listen" (2 Timothy 2:14 NIV).
Today, the day that is commonly referred to as Good Friday by traditionalists, has been the source of many conversations and arguments. The quarrel over words is because of the "rising in three days" and in which various scholars and theologians cannot come to terms over the time frame from the Crucifixion to the Resurrection.
Here's a thought. Why should anyone in relationship with God care about the time frame? What we should care most about is understanding that He came, He was crucified and died for our sins, and rose again and is now sitting at the right hand of His Father.
The reason most cannot agree about a time frame that aligns with The Word is because they are trying to reduce the events to a lower level of understanding--understanding which is marred by historians and the means and methods of recording events in an actual timeline by which most of us can understand. We tend to equate all time by what we know and we know that "time, days, months, years" in times past, do not coincide with the methodology used today to determine "time of events."
So, I'm not really interesting in celebrating a "Good Friday" which was certainly not a good day, but I do contemplate what life would be like if Jesus had not submitted to His Father's Will. For that reason, instead of making a lot hoopla over which day He died, we should spend more time in reflection about what our lives would be like, if He had not died. That is a cause for thanksgiving, not argument.
To each his own and I'm sure that is exactly how the day will be acknowledged. I'm going to be spend the day resting, contemplating, and praising Him for loving me enough to die for me--no matter what day it is or what day it happened--and thanking Him for doing it. And on Sunday, I'll celebrate the fact that He rose from the dead--keeping His Word--and giving me access to the Throne--without the mediation of man.
Father, in the name of Jesus, help us to truly develop understanding of Your Word without quarreling over words so we might honor all You have done for us.
Today, the day that is commonly referred to as Good Friday by traditionalists, has been the source of many conversations and arguments. The quarrel over words is because of the "rising in three days" and in which various scholars and theologians cannot come to terms over the time frame from the Crucifixion to the Resurrection.
Here's a thought. Why should anyone in relationship with God care about the time frame? What we should care most about is understanding that He came, He was crucified and died for our sins, and rose again and is now sitting at the right hand of His Father.
The reason most cannot agree about a time frame that aligns with The Word is because they are trying to reduce the events to a lower level of understanding--understanding which is marred by historians and the means and methods of recording events in an actual timeline by which most of us can understand. We tend to equate all time by what we know and we know that "time, days, months, years" in times past, do not coincide with the methodology used today to determine "time of events."
So, I'm not really interesting in celebrating a "Good Friday" which was certainly not a good day, but I do contemplate what life would be like if Jesus had not submitted to His Father's Will. For that reason, instead of making a lot hoopla over which day He died, we should spend more time in reflection about what our lives would be like, if He had not died. That is a cause for thanksgiving, not argument.
To each his own and I'm sure that is exactly how the day will be acknowledged. I'm going to be spend the day resting, contemplating, and praising Him for loving me enough to die for me--no matter what day it is or what day it happened--and thanking Him for doing it. And on Sunday, I'll celebrate the fact that He rose from the dead--keeping His Word--and giving me access to the Throne--without the mediation of man.
Father, in the name of Jesus, help us to truly develop understanding of Your Word without quarreling over words so we might honor all You have done for us.
Thursday, April 17, 2014
Why God, Why?
Why does God allow certain things to happen to people?
I seriously do not have an answer for every specific thing that happens to people; only God knows why He does what He does. If I had the answers, I'd never have to be concerned about anything else in life. But then, God wants us to seek Him for answers, and not one another.
A follower on Twitter posed the situation to me: He said, "My wife had a heart attack and died in front of our year and half baby. Why did God allow that to happen?"
My response to him was this: I don't know why God allows things to happen to people. My brother was killed by my mother and I suffered from the event, but the same event brought me into relationship with God and now--not only can I have joy in my life, but I can encourage others. God knows what He's doing and all things will work out for our good. Just trust Him!
While some may not agree with my response, I know without a doubt that it was the best response I could give Him. All too often many try to explain why God does things when they don't know any more than anyone else. God is God. He doesn't have to explain Himself to us and He certainly does not need our permission to do anything.
However, there are some things in life that we do to ourselves that bring about certain consequences. If we are not conscious about our physical health and how we treat our bodies, we put ourselves into position to suffer the consequences of--heart attack, stroke, diabetes, certain cancers, etc. If we are not conscious of how we treat others, we will suffer the consequences of depression, loneliness, and other mental illnesses. Drug abuse, alcohol abuse, tobacco use, lack of exercise, overeating, unprotected sexual activity, and just plain meanness can create situations that cause us harm and could lead to death. Let's face it, if we would simply read and understand The Word, follow the instructions, and know God's voice and obey, we could avoid a lot of negative stuff occurring in our lives. It's all in there--we just need to know what "it" is and live to the glory of God!
Father, in the name of Jesus, give us understanding of how to treat our bodies--the temple where Holy Spirit lives and how to live to Your glory. Comfort the hearts of those who have lost loved ones and guide them in their grief to You, as only You can. Pour onto us Your wisdom so we may encourage one another to endure to the end and finish this race, in life.
I seriously do not have an answer for every specific thing that happens to people; only God knows why He does what He does. If I had the answers, I'd never have to be concerned about anything else in life. But then, God wants us to seek Him for answers, and not one another.
A follower on Twitter posed the situation to me: He said, "My wife had a heart attack and died in front of our year and half baby. Why did God allow that to happen?"
My response to him was this: I don't know why God allows things to happen to people. My brother was killed by my mother and I suffered from the event, but the same event brought me into relationship with God and now--not only can I have joy in my life, but I can encourage others. God knows what He's doing and all things will work out for our good. Just trust Him!
While some may not agree with my response, I know without a doubt that it was the best response I could give Him. All too often many try to explain why God does things when they don't know any more than anyone else. God is God. He doesn't have to explain Himself to us and He certainly does not need our permission to do anything.
However, there are some things in life that we do to ourselves that bring about certain consequences. If we are not conscious about our physical health and how we treat our bodies, we put ourselves into position to suffer the consequences of--heart attack, stroke, diabetes, certain cancers, etc. If we are not conscious of how we treat others, we will suffer the consequences of depression, loneliness, and other mental illnesses. Drug abuse, alcohol abuse, tobacco use, lack of exercise, overeating, unprotected sexual activity, and just plain meanness can create situations that cause us harm and could lead to death. Let's face it, if we would simply read and understand The Word, follow the instructions, and know God's voice and obey, we could avoid a lot of negative stuff occurring in our lives. It's all in there--we just need to know what "it" is and live to the glory of God!
Father, in the name of Jesus, give us understanding of how to treat our bodies--the temple where Holy Spirit lives and how to live to Your glory. Comfort the hearts of those who have lost loved ones and guide them in their grief to You, as only You can. Pour onto us Your wisdom so we may encourage one another to endure to the end and finish this race, in life.
Wednesday, April 16, 2014
The Lord Gives!
"For the LORD gives wisdom; from his mouth come knowledge and understanding" (Proverbs 2:6 NIV).
No matter how smart or intelligent some people may think they are, without the wisdom the Lord gives, a person really has nothing. As Solomon points out in this verse of scripture, when the Lord gives wisdom--a person obtains knowledge and understanding.
If a person is given a Mercedes Benz--handed the keys to the car--but they do not know how to drive, what purpose does the gift serve? In order for the gift to benefit the receiver, the person receiving the gift must have understanding about what to do with it.
When students read--all of their assignments--and yet are unable to comprehend what they have read, what do they have? Most students can identify words, but are incapable of understanding what the words mean within various contexts used.
Having knowledge--of words in simple contexts--is what has hindered many from truly understanding what God's Word means--not just what it says, but what He means. Most of the problems have risen due to the fact that many attempt to attach a literal meaning to every word; not realizing that a great deal of what is say, is analogous, or at the very least--figuratively used.
For instance (not seeking argument, just introspection of words), many would argue that Cain was a firstborn child and that he and Able were the first children produced by man. What people have failed to understand is that "they were the first children after the fall," before the fall, Adam and Eve were obedient in "multiplying" as God had commanded. If people understood the context and had inference skills, they would know that when Cain left the presence of God after killing Abel and took a wife in another town, there would have to be people in another place for it to be called a "town." We would also know that there is no specific timeline involved with the events in the garden and one can only surmise that Adam and Eve were in the garden for many years before they were disobedient.
This is just one of many concepts in "Genesis" (the record of firsts or beginnings) that have misled a number of people and hindered their understanding of the bible. If when we read The Word, seek God for understanding, then He would provide it and we would have the wisdom of God operating in our lives. What He gives--His wisdom--cannot be measured with the head knowledge that some espouse, but has to be measured with the heart and the relationship one has with Him.
Father, in the name of Jesus, pour out Your wisdom upon all who are willing to receive so we might truly operate in the wisdom You give. Your wisdom--You give freely to all who ask--provides insight into all problems and lead to solutions which bring peace. Help us to walk in Your wisdom.
No matter how smart or intelligent some people may think they are, without the wisdom the Lord gives, a person really has nothing. As Solomon points out in this verse of scripture, when the Lord gives wisdom--a person obtains knowledge and understanding.
If a person is given a Mercedes Benz--handed the keys to the car--but they do not know how to drive, what purpose does the gift serve? In order for the gift to benefit the receiver, the person receiving the gift must have understanding about what to do with it.
When students read--all of their assignments--and yet are unable to comprehend what they have read, what do they have? Most students can identify words, but are incapable of understanding what the words mean within various contexts used.
Having knowledge--of words in simple contexts--is what has hindered many from truly understanding what God's Word means--not just what it says, but what He means. Most of the problems have risen due to the fact that many attempt to attach a literal meaning to every word; not realizing that a great deal of what is say, is analogous, or at the very least--figuratively used.
For instance (not seeking argument, just introspection of words), many would argue that Cain was a firstborn child and that he and Able were the first children produced by man. What people have failed to understand is that "they were the first children after the fall," before the fall, Adam and Eve were obedient in "multiplying" as God had commanded. If people understood the context and had inference skills, they would know that when Cain left the presence of God after killing Abel and took a wife in another town, there would have to be people in another place for it to be called a "town." We would also know that there is no specific timeline involved with the events in the garden and one can only surmise that Adam and Eve were in the garden for many years before they were disobedient.
This is just one of many concepts in "Genesis" (the record of firsts or beginnings) that have misled a number of people and hindered their understanding of the bible. If when we read The Word, seek God for understanding, then He would provide it and we would have the wisdom of God operating in our lives. What He gives--His wisdom--cannot be measured with the head knowledge that some espouse, but has to be measured with the heart and the relationship one has with Him.
Father, in the name of Jesus, pour out Your wisdom upon all who are willing to receive so we might truly operate in the wisdom You give. Your wisdom--You give freely to all who ask--provides insight into all problems and lead to solutions which bring peace. Help us to walk in Your wisdom.
Tuesday, April 15, 2014
Prophecies!
I know why the prophets sighed
Seeing future events unfold
Knowing, yet hesitant to tell
Of dark days and bright nights
Rising from earth, the hell
Unleashed on scorners from
All corners of life. No respect
For titles, position or wealth,
The gray, the lean, and in-between
Must now accept deed's fate
Foretold hundreds of years ago,
By one who dared to speak
The Truth, yet remained not long
For fruit to bear its burden,
Sickness, disease, calamities
For truth's tale felled prophets galore,
Until they would not speak much more,
But silently watched truth awake,
The skies, and the earth, while they just sighed.
(c) 2002 Mary M. Hall-Rayford
Seeing future events unfold
Knowing, yet hesitant to tell
Of dark days and bright nights
Rising from earth, the hell
Unleashed on scorners from
All corners of life. No respect
For titles, position or wealth,
The gray, the lean, and in-between
Must now accept deed's fate
Foretold hundreds of years ago,
By one who dared to speak
The Truth, yet remained not long
For fruit to bear its burden,
Sickness, disease, calamities
For truth's tale felled prophets galore,
Until they would not speak much more,
But silently watched truth awake,
The skies, and the earth, while they just sighed.
(c) 2002 Mary M. Hall-Rayford
Live Without Fear!
"but whoever listens to me will live in safety and be at ease, without fear of harm" (Proverbs 1:33 NIV)
With all of the uproar and chaos that exists all over the world, it is amazing that such a simple solution could resolve the unrest. If we would just listen to what God has to say and obey, we could all live in peace and never worry about being fearful of anything. The fact that there is so much chaos in the world is evidence that we are not listening and that leads to certain fearfulness of impending danger.
When children don't listen to parents, they can expect certain consequences when they disobey and some children end up being fearful of parents.
When students don't pay attention to a teacher/educator, they can expect certain consequences and many are fearful about their grades.
When any individual doesn't pay attention to the laws of the land, ie--traffic laws, they can expect to receive the penalty for their actions and many fear police.
Of course, there are a number of other things that could be said about why people are fearful, but for the most part--people are fearful because they are not listening to wise counsel, and more specifically, they are not listening to God.
We listen to God through reading and understanding His Word, recognizing that quiet voice that speaks to our hearts. If we are not willing to read and understand His Word, we will never recognize when He is speaking to our hearts. If we do not hear Him, we are doomed to live in fear about almost everything.
We can abide in His peace when we understand that His peace--surpasses all understanding--and we can receive it, embrace it, and rest in it. His peace--keeps our hearts from fluttering at the sound of evil or turmoil. His peace--allows us to sleep at night, no matter what is going on with the rest of the world. His peace--allows us to navigate life without being anxious or fearful about anything.
In order to live without fear, we must listen and obey God! Perfect love--unconditional love--casts out fear!
With all of the uproar and chaos that exists all over the world, it is amazing that such a simple solution could resolve the unrest. If we would just listen to what God has to say and obey, we could all live in peace and never worry about being fearful of anything. The fact that there is so much chaos in the world is evidence that we are not listening and that leads to certain fearfulness of impending danger.
When children don't listen to parents, they can expect certain consequences when they disobey and some children end up being fearful of parents.
When students don't pay attention to a teacher/educator, they can expect certain consequences and many are fearful about their grades.
When any individual doesn't pay attention to the laws of the land, ie--traffic laws, they can expect to receive the penalty for their actions and many fear police.
Of course, there are a number of other things that could be said about why people are fearful, but for the most part--people are fearful because they are not listening to wise counsel, and more specifically, they are not listening to God.
We listen to God through reading and understanding His Word, recognizing that quiet voice that speaks to our hearts. If we are not willing to read and understand His Word, we will never recognize when He is speaking to our hearts. If we do not hear Him, we are doomed to live in fear about almost everything.
We can abide in His peace when we understand that His peace--surpasses all understanding--and we can receive it, embrace it, and rest in it. His peace--keeps our hearts from fluttering at the sound of evil or turmoil. His peace--allows us to sleep at night, no matter what is going on with the rest of the world. His peace--allows us to navigate life without being anxious or fearful about anything.
In order to live without fear, we must listen and obey God! Perfect love--unconditional love--casts out fear!
Monday, April 14, 2014
Defeating Giants In Your Life
"And there we saw the giants, the sons of Anak, which come of the giants: and we were in our own sight as grasshoppers, and so we were in their sight" (Numbers 13:33).
Whenever a person's "mind is set" upon a specific outcome--due to inferior complexes, insecurities, or simply fear, their perspective of the situation is colored by the moment and their feelings. Earlier in this passage of scripture, we see Caleb being sent out to spy out the land--to see what the Children of Israel would be up against when they moved forward. While Caleb admitted to Moses and the people that there were indeed giants in the land, he was also confident in their ability to overcome the obstacles before them.
If our confidence is in the God we serve, we can indeed overcome and defeat any giants that attempt to get in our way. We can only be defeated by our circumstances when our confidence is in our own ability without God. Caleb understood this very basic premise--trust in The Lord--no matter what things look like--and hold to His promises and know they will be fulfilled. God's promises were fulfilled then and they will be fulfilled now. After all, God is not a respecter of persons and so His love for us is the same as His love for the Children of Israel as they traversed the land.
What giants are threatening to decimate you? Debt, sickness, disease, fear, intimidation, poverty, insecurity, family issues, personality conflicts--all can cause one's perspective to see the obstacle bigger than they are.
Be encouraged--though there are giants that arise in everyone's life--we have the power of the Holy Spirit operating within us and nothing--no weapon shall prosper against us. We have all we need to be conquer any giant in the land or in our lives as long as our trust is in God and not self. In order to defeat the giants, we must see ourselves as Caleb saw things--"we are well able to overcome the giants" those things that "we think" are bigger than our God.
Our God is awesome, He's great and with Him going before us--every day we wake, He is more than enough to cause us to be victorious--no matter what. Nothing is impossible with God. We must remember that the battles we encounter with anything are not ours, but His and He is King of Kings. Victory is ours, when we keep our focus on Him, and not on us and our own abilities. Now, it's time to face the giants and defeat them!
Whenever a person's "mind is set" upon a specific outcome--due to inferior complexes, insecurities, or simply fear, their perspective of the situation is colored by the moment and their feelings. Earlier in this passage of scripture, we see Caleb being sent out to spy out the land--to see what the Children of Israel would be up against when they moved forward. While Caleb admitted to Moses and the people that there were indeed giants in the land, he was also confident in their ability to overcome the obstacles before them.
If our confidence is in the God we serve, we can indeed overcome and defeat any giants that attempt to get in our way. We can only be defeated by our circumstances when our confidence is in our own ability without God. Caleb understood this very basic premise--trust in The Lord--no matter what things look like--and hold to His promises and know they will be fulfilled. God's promises were fulfilled then and they will be fulfilled now. After all, God is not a respecter of persons and so His love for us is the same as His love for the Children of Israel as they traversed the land.
What giants are threatening to decimate you? Debt, sickness, disease, fear, intimidation, poverty, insecurity, family issues, personality conflicts--all can cause one's perspective to see the obstacle bigger than they are.
Be encouraged--though there are giants that arise in everyone's life--we have the power of the Holy Spirit operating within us and nothing--no weapon shall prosper against us. We have all we need to be conquer any giant in the land or in our lives as long as our trust is in God and not self. In order to defeat the giants, we must see ourselves as Caleb saw things--"we are well able to overcome the giants" those things that "we think" are bigger than our God.
Our God is awesome, He's great and with Him going before us--every day we wake, He is more than enough to cause us to be victorious--no matter what. Nothing is impossible with God. We must remember that the battles we encounter with anything are not ours, but His and He is King of Kings. Victory is ours, when we keep our focus on Him, and not on us and our own abilities. Now, it's time to face the giants and defeat them!
Sunday, April 13, 2014
This Too Shall Pass!
The last 24 hours have been grueling and challenging. I'm sure you all know the feeling--the day when Murphy's Law reigns.
I had just completed a story for a competition and in my excitement--forgot to save the revised draft (I have the original), and in the process of exiting the program, lost the entire Office 2013 program. I mean it literally disappeared--and could not be found on my computer anywhere. I checked installed programs--gone; I restored system, twice--nothing. I even restored items sitting in my recycle bin--nothing could be found.
Eventually, I contacted Microsoft and after 7 1/2 hours today, was finally able to resume use of my Office documents. The technician had to do quite a bit--uninstall and re-install the program from their side, scan the computer for threats and found 696 of them, clean up the mess and then run diagnostics to make sure everything was running right. I did not get a chance to do much of what I needed to do, but I did get a chance to do some other things while waiting for the process to run its course. And you know, it's all good!
So, I missed posting early, but I did not forget anyone. Be encouraged! And when you have one of those days, like I just had, remember--this too shall pass; especially when we know that no weapon formed against us will ever prosper! With Jesus on our side--things will work out right!
I had just completed a story for a competition and in my excitement--forgot to save the revised draft (I have the original), and in the process of exiting the program, lost the entire Office 2013 program. I mean it literally disappeared--and could not be found on my computer anywhere. I checked installed programs--gone; I restored system, twice--nothing. I even restored items sitting in my recycle bin--nothing could be found.
Eventually, I contacted Microsoft and after 7 1/2 hours today, was finally able to resume use of my Office documents. The technician had to do quite a bit--uninstall and re-install the program from their side, scan the computer for threats and found 696 of them, clean up the mess and then run diagnostics to make sure everything was running right. I did not get a chance to do much of what I needed to do, but I did get a chance to do some other things while waiting for the process to run its course. And you know, it's all good!
So, I missed posting early, but I did not forget anyone. Be encouraged! And when you have one of those days, like I just had, remember--this too shall pass; especially when we know that no weapon formed against us will ever prosper! With Jesus on our side--things will work out right!
Saturday, April 12, 2014
When Knowledge Is Hated!
“Then they will call to me but I will not answer; they will look for me but will not find me, since they hated knowledge and did not choose to fear the LORD" (Proverbs 1:28,29 NIV).
How many people look back at their lives and reflect upon what happened to them when they were in school--elementary, middle school, high school, or college?
During my five-year tenure in jail ministry, most of the inmates admitted they wish they had paid attention to their teachers. They finally realized that not having sufficient knowledge on an academic level hindered their progress in society as adults, but they also realized that not listening to authority could only end in disaster. A number of the inmates witnessed their friends being shot or killed during the commission of a crime. They attended far too many funerals of those they had grown up with during their early years. Since my assignment for the jail ministry was the psychiatric ward, many had difficulties sorting out reality and understanding rational thinking. When faced with the inevitability of their actions, they were finally able to conclude that most of their problems stemmed from the "hating knowledge" that either teachers had tried to impart or from others in authority.
When children rebel against parents because they don't know think their parents know anything, discovery is soon made about the consequences of rebellion and it is usually not a pretty sight.
When those whom God loves choose to ignore Him and rebel against Him, the consequences can be severe enough to sever a right relationship with Him, forever.
Hating knowledge and ignoring the wisdom of those in authority can only lead to paths of destruction, and some people never find the path back to right relationship.
The admonition Solomon gave to his son is still relevant today--if we continue to hate knowledge, wisdom will show us how God responds--when He's not responding to us, or hearing us. Even when we look for Him, we will not find Him. A severed relationship with God can only lead to disaster which is why we must revere The Word of God and honor Him in all that we do.
Parents and other adults in authority should heed The Word of God in all their teachings to their children. Children should pay attention to the voices of authority in their lives and learn from the wisdom exhibited from God. Everyone should embrace wisdom and knowledge as God's inherent love for us and His desire for us to succeed in life.
Remember, the reverential fear of The Lord is the beginning of wisdom and we should heed wisdom's call in all things, learning as we go, accepting the fact that all knowledge from God is good.
How many people look back at their lives and reflect upon what happened to them when they were in school--elementary, middle school, high school, or college?
During my five-year tenure in jail ministry, most of the inmates admitted they wish they had paid attention to their teachers. They finally realized that not having sufficient knowledge on an academic level hindered their progress in society as adults, but they also realized that not listening to authority could only end in disaster. A number of the inmates witnessed their friends being shot or killed during the commission of a crime. They attended far too many funerals of those they had grown up with during their early years. Since my assignment for the jail ministry was the psychiatric ward, many had difficulties sorting out reality and understanding rational thinking. When faced with the inevitability of their actions, they were finally able to conclude that most of their problems stemmed from the "hating knowledge" that either teachers had tried to impart or from others in authority.
When children rebel against parents because they don't know think their parents know anything, discovery is soon made about the consequences of rebellion and it is usually not a pretty sight.
When those whom God loves choose to ignore Him and rebel against Him, the consequences can be severe enough to sever a right relationship with Him, forever.
Hating knowledge and ignoring the wisdom of those in authority can only lead to paths of destruction, and some people never find the path back to right relationship.
The admonition Solomon gave to his son is still relevant today--if we continue to hate knowledge, wisdom will show us how God responds--when He's not responding to us, or hearing us. Even when we look for Him, we will not find Him. A severed relationship with God can only lead to disaster which is why we must revere The Word of God and honor Him in all that we do.
Parents and other adults in authority should heed The Word of God in all their teachings to their children. Children should pay attention to the voices of authority in their lives and learn from the wisdom exhibited from God. Everyone should embrace wisdom and knowledge as God's inherent love for us and His desire for us to succeed in life.
Remember, the reverential fear of The Lord is the beginning of wisdom and we should heed wisdom's call in all things, learning as we go, accepting the fact that all knowledge from God is good.
Friday, April 11, 2014
Where Is Your Trust?
Where Is Your Trust?
“Some
trust
in chariots, and some in horses: but we will
remember the name of the LORD our God” Psalm 20:7
How many people—still—place their trust in
everything and everyone, but God? Did we not learn anything from those who came
before us? Have we still hardened our hearts to the truth of God’s Word?
How do we know that people do not trust God to fulfill His
promises to us? That is very simple. We
look at the trust people put into political candidates to do what is right and
then angry with them when they don’t do what we want them to do. We look at
the “lotteries” that are played all over the nation. More people put their trust into playing a lottery number than they do
in obeying God’s Word. We look at church leaders and assume that those who
have larger churches have the greatest connection to God. We know what assuming
does!
Everyone (from appearances of all observed) wants
success and wealth, but most seem to think that there are shortcuts to obtaining
them. For every shortcut attempted, a backward slide ignites. So then, most
people who think a shortcut is the answer end up doing the moonwalk—Michael
Jackson style—backwards. They lose money, status, and some the will to live
past their obvious blunders.
If people want to travel the true path of success, they must
adhere to The Word. If we keep God’s commandments, then everything we put our
hands on will prosper and we will have good success. We must do things the way
God outlines them! When we do not—we can only look forward to seeing our
efforts crumble before us!
“Woe to them that go down to
Egypt for help; and stay on horses, and trust in chariots, because
they are many; and in
horsemen, because they are very strong; but they look not unto the Holy One of
Israel, neither seek the LORD!” Isaiah 31:1
When we think we
know—anything—apart from what God has said, we set ourselves up for disaster!
This is why when stock markets crash; people commit suicide. This is why when
children are disobedient; they end up in jail or prisons. This is why when
husbands cheat on wives with other women and men, sexually transmitted diseases
kill. This is why the nation is in
turmoil and confusion reigns because leaders—political and spiritual—have left
God’s Word and have chosen to be popular rather than Godly.
Our trust—for everything in all situations—should only be in God
because He is the only wise One who can determine our future without benefit of
guessing or taking a chance or being concerned about popularity. Where is your
trust?
“Trust in the LORD with all
thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways
acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths.” Proverbs 3:5, 6
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Thursday, April 10, 2014
Don't Look Back!
"But Lot’s wife looked back, and she became a pillar of salt" (Genesis 19:26 NIV).
Looking backwards—at the things we did in our past can have dire consequences. Even though we should always remember past mistakes so we won’t repeat them, we have to also remember that dwelling in the past can cause us to “drop anchor” and we never move from the past.
Remember the circumstances of Lot’s wife when the angel told them not to look backwards (Genesis 19:17)—she disobeyed and turned into a pillar of salt. Now, many scholars have theorized why she looked back. Some say she was reluctant to give up her status, some say she didn’t want to give up what she had, some say it was simply a matter of sadness. The bottom line is—she looked back and never got a chance to move forward—to see what God had in store for her.
That is exactly what we do when we become mired in the past. When we remember those who got in our way or the things we did that stunted our growth and maturity or the way we treated others and we cannot move from it—we get tangled in it and cannot move forward. In order to move forward, we must lift anchor and allow our relationship with God to steer us in the right direction—in position to receive all He has for us.
But it is not just us as individuals who drop anchor and refuse to budge. Collectively, we as an organized body of society find it difficult to release those we have traditionally done, year after year. We do some things without even know why we do it. The way we do education is out of tradition more than necessity. If we understood the necessity to change the way we do education, our children would not be illiterate as are so many adults. If the way we did parenting would include common sense and wisdom from God, we would not have the issues we have with children disrespecting adults and their parents. If the churches would learn to move forward and not just hold onto belief systems that hinder more than promote understanding, churches would be filled.
How much good does it do anyone to look back on failed relationships and wonder—“if I had to do it all over again, would anything change?"
How much good does it do for anyone to dwell on mistakes that cost promotion or opportunity?
How much good does it do for anyone to beat themselves up over decisions made when there was simply not sufficient information at-hand when the decision was made?
How much good does it do for anyone to keep doing the same thing, in the same way, expecting different result?
We have to learn to look at “our now” and deal with the present with the information we have and the ability to seek more. There is no excuse for anyone to be anchored to their past, unless that is where they want to be. When we become wise enough to understand that we cannot change the past and must exist in the present, we will more likely achieve those things that once appeared to elude us.
Looking backwards—at the things we did in our past can have dire consequences. Even though we should always remember past mistakes so we won’t repeat them, we have to also remember that dwelling in the past can cause us to “drop anchor” and we never move from the past.
Remember the circumstances of Lot’s wife when the angel told them not to look backwards (Genesis 19:17)—she disobeyed and turned into a pillar of salt. Now, many scholars have theorized why she looked back. Some say she was reluctant to give up her status, some say she didn’t want to give up what she had, some say it was simply a matter of sadness. The bottom line is—she looked back and never got a chance to move forward—to see what God had in store for her.
That is exactly what we do when we become mired in the past. When we remember those who got in our way or the things we did that stunted our growth and maturity or the way we treated others and we cannot move from it—we get tangled in it and cannot move forward. In order to move forward, we must lift anchor and allow our relationship with God to steer us in the right direction—in position to receive all He has for us.
But it is not just us as individuals who drop anchor and refuse to budge. Collectively, we as an organized body of society find it difficult to release those we have traditionally done, year after year. We do some things without even know why we do it. The way we do education is out of tradition more than necessity. If we understood the necessity to change the way we do education, our children would not be illiterate as are so many adults. If the way we did parenting would include common sense and wisdom from God, we would not have the issues we have with children disrespecting adults and their parents. If the churches would learn to move forward and not just hold onto belief systems that hinder more than promote understanding, churches would be filled.
How much good does it do anyone to look back on failed relationships and wonder—“if I had to do it all over again, would anything change?"
How much good does it do for anyone to dwell on mistakes that cost promotion or opportunity?
How much good does it do for anyone to beat themselves up over decisions made when there was simply not sufficient information at-hand when the decision was made?
How much good does it do for anyone to keep doing the same thing, in the same way, expecting different result?
We have to learn to look at “our now” and deal with the present with the information we have and the ability to seek more. There is no excuse for anyone to be anchored to their past, unless that is where they want to be. When we become wise enough to understand that we cannot change the past and must exist in the present, we will more likely achieve those things that once appeared to elude us.
Wednesday, April 9, 2014
To Whom Do You Belong?
Nevertheless, God’s solid foundation stands firm, sealed with this inscription: “The Lord knows those who are his,” and, “Everyone who confesses the name of the Lord must turn away from wickedness” (2 Timothy 2:19 NIV).
On life's journey, we are assailed with many things, turned in many directions, influenced by various spirits in people to the degree that some--never determine who they are or to whom they belong. We are familiar with such adages as--"birds of a feather flock together," and "a man is known by the company he keeps," and "if it quacks like a duck, it must be a duck," but we do we really understand the implications?
When we look at Paul's instructions to Timothy, we understand that Timothy was up against some people who attempted to undermine who he was. Apparently, there was much discussion and disagreement over "words" (more likely the interpretation of such) and Paul told him, don't argue over words, study to make sure he knew what he was talking about and to not let those who had "turned from the truth" influence him in any way. And then, Paul reminds Timothy that God knows those who are His and whoever confesses belonging to Him, must turn away from wickedness (doing those things influenced by evil).
We who confess to having a relationship with God--must understand the implication--not only to those who have a common confession, but for those who do not. There is probably nothing more discouraging to someone who "doesn't really know Him, yet" to hear those who proclaim they do--arguing over words or rituals or traditions that mean absolutely nothing if God is not in it. Jesus warned us that, "we have made the Word of God of no effect because of our traditions."
The disparity comes to the forefront when people really do not know to whom they belong. They can tell in the blink of an eye which church they attend (or are members); they can tell someone the pastor's name; they can even tell what the church believes; they can tell when they were baptized, but when asked about having a personal, intimate relationship with God--they stutter. When asked how often they read, meditate or study The Word--they hesitate. They can quickly parrot what others have said about something, but have no knowledge of their own.
When people read the bible for themselves, they would know--"The Lord's Prayer"--the model given to the disciples, was not meant to be prayer for all things at all times. If that was true, then Jesus would have prayed it when He was in the garden, just before He was arrested. And the same people who repeat this prayer as a mantra, wonder why God is not hearing or responding to them. They do not know that God's response to us in prayer is based upon a sincere conversation with Him and our faith in Him, not a repetitious monologue. If people had read John--they would have discovered what meaningful prayer entails.
The real problem is--not knowing to whom they belong. If we belong to Jesus, then our behavior and our associations must be indicative of that relationship, rather than a relationship with worldly people who do not know Him!
On life's journey, we are assailed with many things, turned in many directions, influenced by various spirits in people to the degree that some--never determine who they are or to whom they belong. We are familiar with such adages as--"birds of a feather flock together," and "a man is known by the company he keeps," and "if it quacks like a duck, it must be a duck," but we do we really understand the implications?
When we look at Paul's instructions to Timothy, we understand that Timothy was up against some people who attempted to undermine who he was. Apparently, there was much discussion and disagreement over "words" (more likely the interpretation of such) and Paul told him, don't argue over words, study to make sure he knew what he was talking about and to not let those who had "turned from the truth" influence him in any way. And then, Paul reminds Timothy that God knows those who are His and whoever confesses belonging to Him, must turn away from wickedness (doing those things influenced by evil).
We who confess to having a relationship with God--must understand the implication--not only to those who have a common confession, but for those who do not. There is probably nothing more discouraging to someone who "doesn't really know Him, yet" to hear those who proclaim they do--arguing over words or rituals or traditions that mean absolutely nothing if God is not in it. Jesus warned us that, "we have made the Word of God of no effect because of our traditions."
The disparity comes to the forefront when people really do not know to whom they belong. They can tell in the blink of an eye which church they attend (or are members); they can tell someone the pastor's name; they can even tell what the church believes; they can tell when they were baptized, but when asked about having a personal, intimate relationship with God--they stutter. When asked how often they read, meditate or study The Word--they hesitate. They can quickly parrot what others have said about something, but have no knowledge of their own.
When people read the bible for themselves, they would know--"The Lord's Prayer"--the model given to the disciples, was not meant to be prayer for all things at all times. If that was true, then Jesus would have prayed it when He was in the garden, just before He was arrested. And the same people who repeat this prayer as a mantra, wonder why God is not hearing or responding to them. They do not know that God's response to us in prayer is based upon a sincere conversation with Him and our faith in Him, not a repetitious monologue. If people had read John--they would have discovered what meaningful prayer entails.
The real problem is--not knowing to whom they belong. If we belong to Jesus, then our behavior and our associations must be indicative of that relationship, rather than a relationship with worldly people who do not know Him!
Tuesday, April 8, 2014
Yep! It's Poetry Month!
In The Rabbit Hole
Mary M. Hall-Rayford © 2014
Raking the leaves, turning the soil,
I noticed the burrows dug deep,
But decided to stay on course with my plan,
To clean up the yard before the rain seeped,
Into the atmosphere, spreading across the land
Keeping me from my goal to beautify
All that anyone could see with the naked eye,
And enjoy the fruits of my labor and then,
Suddenly, I lost control of balance and
Started to sink in the hole, I had noticed,
But refused to think about then,
And now as I screamed for help from anyone
I discovered none heard, for no one was near
To my hear my heart-rend screeches or to see the tears
That flowed as I thought all was lost, but
Then I had to reflect about all I knew
About rabbit, whole and how they tasted in stew.
So I remembered Alice, and her plight in the same
And thought about what she might do
Against all odds, earthworms and grubs,
Dirt and stuff I could not even name
No wonder her journey, garnered such fame.
But I must not lose sight of my tale as it is,
May not bring glory and fame, but tis
The stuff whole novels abound with characters
Made in the quickness of thought,
And hopefully, many books will be bought
To see the end of this tale
That I now attempt to regale,
On a spring evening when all through the city
Everyone was busy, raking lawns and seeding
Not worrying about feeding the rabbits who
Waiting for someone to help them reach their goal
By falling in their hole,
Losing their minds and soon their souls,
To the depths of adventure that lie within,
Watch and see if I emerge with a grin,
Victorious in all things, until the very end.
Waiting for someone to help them reach their goal
By falling in their hole,
Losing their minds and soon their souls,
To the depths of adventure that lie within,
Watch and see if I emerge with a grin,
Victorious in all things, until the very end.
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