Week Seventeen - What in the World Can We Do?

Sometimes, we feel like giving up when we listen to the news. We may feel powerless to guide our communities or positively influence what is happening around us. We witness things changing before our eyes that we never imagined would be accepted by society. 

We may think that the world is becoming worse than it has ever been, but if we read our Bible, we will find that the world has always been as evil as it is now. The flood is an example of that, and so is Israel's history, as well as the rise and fall of different cultures documented in our history books. The availability of today's media means that we are more aware of the global problem of evil. 

So, what did the faithful do when faced with blatant evil in the Old Testament, the Roman Empire, the Reformation, and other eras? They remained faithful and did five things continuously, which we can still do in our era.

1) They continually sought the Lord. 1 Chronicles 16:11 reads, "Seek the Lord and his strength, seek his face continually."It is important to remain faithful to God and stay connected with His church. Always keep yourself engaged with the Bible and make sure that you are surrounded by God's love (Jude 21). The more we seek Him, the more we will be able to see Him. Therefore, it is essential to keep our eyes focused on the Lord and not let fear take over.

2) They continued to praise God. Psalm 34:1 says, "I will bless the Lord at all times: his praise shall continually be in my mouth." Psalm 40:10 reads, "Let all those that seek thee rejoice and be glad in thee: let such as love thy salvation say continually, The Lord be magnified."

There is such a supernatural power in praise. According to Isaiah 6:13, we should put on the garment of praise to combat the spirit of heaviness. Praise lifts us to hope. As we seek the Lord, praise brings us thankfulness and comfort. It allows us to look beyond today's problems to the future, a future securely in God's hands. He has already won the battle over evil, so praise Him for this truth.

3) They continued to pray. Scripture teaches us to pray in faith, to come boldly before the throne, and without ceasing (1 Thessalonians 5:17). When you examine the prayers of the Bible, you find many recorded during times of great evil, as the faithful knelt before the Lord, pleading for protection and deliverance, and God heard and answered their prayers. The book of Revelation tells us that the prayers of God's people are a sweet incense rising to heaven. These prayers act as a catalyst for final justice, and that's why our prayers are so powerful.

4) They continued to wait. And here is the clincher. We might seek the Lord, find praise in our hearts, and keep ourselves before Him in prayer, but do we understand the instruction to wait? Hosea 12:6 says, "Turn thou to thy God: keep mercy and judgment, and wait on thy God continually." We don't know the future, but we do know our God. His promise is, "They that wait upon the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary; and they shall walk, and not faith (Isaiah 40:31). Waiting indicates trust and the blessings of waiting are apparent. Waiting indicates we believe God will answer. It gives us time to pray and allows the Spirit to do His work in our hearts. It shows our reliance upon God and demonstrates spiritual wisdom that keeps us from undue trouble or running ahead of god. Waiting reveals our faith in God and shows we look to Him and no one else.

5) They continued to hope. Psalm 71:14 reads, "I will hope continually and will yet praise thee more and more." We serve a God of the impossible. He knows everything and has everything under His control. We can never go wrong placing our hope in Him, for with Him, all things are possible. Instead of trying to figure things out ourselves, we will find greater joy and more praise by placing our hope solely in His wisdom and everlasting love.

This old world is tumbling to its end. We know that to be true. So, what in the world can we do? We can remain faithful, keep ourselves before the Lord with praise and prayer, and wait upon Him to do all things according to the purpose of His will (Ephesians 1:11). We needn't feel desperate or forsaken, for we are not! We have hope. When you read the end of the story, you see that the prayers of the saints are answered. God will make all things right. 

Week Sixteen - Forever Gracious

As we navigate life's storms, I want to share some beautiful truths about God's eternal ways. These truths, which have comforted me in my own journey, remind us that we are not alone. They are like a compass, guiding us toward His wisdom and graciousness.

Spurgeon writes with such eloquence that I may quote directly at times. He is commenting on Habakkuk 3:6, which reads, "His ways are everlasting." 

God is the same yesterday as He is today. He never changes. While we vary and shift, God is eternal, everlasting, and always true. His steadfastness brings us great comfort. When we face scary times, we can rest ourselves in these truths. They are anchors in the storms of life. 

When I faced cancer a few years ago, God placed 2 Timothy 4:17 on my heart, and it sustained me. "Notwithstanding, the Lord stood with me and strengthened me." Keeping my eyes on His perfection, eternal love, and graciousness enabled me to walk that path in greater comfort and deep assurance. If you are in a storm today or looking for hope, take time to consider today's thoughts.

We can rest ourselves in the gracious consistency of God:

1. Because the Lord's ways are the result of wise deliberation. I love Ephesians 1:11. It has become a stalworth for me. He, God, "worketh all things after the counsel of his own will." Nothing takes Him by surprise or happens that He has not foreseen. He factors our every moment into His ways. Just meditate on that and see if that doesn't amaze you. All things, everything, nothing is outside His awareness, but it is used within His will to accomplish His plan.

2. His ways are the outgrowth of an immutable character. God's attributes are fixed and settled. He is the Eternal One, gracious, faithful, and wise. He acts according to His nature. He knows no shadow of turning. So when you read His Word, you can believe His promises are true. He will not change. He does not lie. He is faithful and consistent to the nth degree. He always loves you. He is always faithful to you. He is always watching over you. These things do not change because God does not change.

3. His ways are the embodiment of irresistible might. Spurgeon writes, "The earth is said, by the prophet, to be cleft with rivers, mountains tremble, the deep lifts up its hands, and sun and moon stand still, when Jehovah marches forth for the salvation of His people. Who can stop His hand, or say to Him, 'What are You doing?' " God has irresistible might. Beyond our comprehension. What does that mean for you? It means God is your defender. No weapon fashioned against us can stand. (Isaiah 54:17) And I love Proverbs 21:30 & 31, "There is no wisdom nor understanding or counsel against the Lord. The horse is prepared against the day of battle: but safety is of the Lord." Our forever gracious Lord is strong in might and wisdom. He is our unconquerable deliverer; nothing can withstand Him. Proverbs 18:10 reads, "The name of the Lord is a strong tower: the righteous runneth into it, and is safe." Oh, how safe we are in the mighty hand of God! 

4. His ways are the manifestation of the eternal principles of right. His Word will stand. His Word is truth, eternal truth. While "evil breeds decay and involves ruin, the true and the good have about them a vitality which ages cannot diminish." We are eternally secure because we have placed our faith in the eternal principles of God. He will never act outside these principles. We might not understand what He is doing, but that does not change the truth that God is always right and works by wise, unchanging, powerful, and eternal principles. His plan is for final justice. He will make all things right in the end.

These truths are of great comfort in a world spinning to its end. They bolster the souls of the saints in times of storm and uncertainty. Those who know Christ as Saviour can rest solidly in God's forever gracious ways.

So today, if you are facing a storm or deep in the midst of one, grab hold of the anchor of these truths and let Him be your eternal shield. He is forever gracious.

Week Fifteen - Leave a Well in the Valley

A dear friend, Dale Peterson, wrote a book called Leave a Well in the Valley. In it, he recounts God's path through ups and downs, lessons learned, and faith that carried him through. 

A few years ago, my friend Becki and I began reading books written in the 40s by a woman named Marjorie Wilkinson. She wrote in a simple and homespun way to encourage others to follow Christ. 

And in the 1600s, a man named Jeremiah Burroughs wrote two works that have blessed my heart: The Rare Jewel of Christian Contentment and An Exposition of the Beatitudes. Comfort and instruction from others often prove serviceable to our spiritual growth. 

These writers, and many others, left a well in the valley for our encouragement. When we read of their journey, we know they have been there before us and dug a well for our supply. These road signs of pilgrims gone before help us see the footprints of faith. How thankful can we be for those who took the time to log their journey?

Proverbs 13:22 reminds us, "A good man leaveth an inheritance to his children's children." This verse isn't just about material wealth but the legacy of faith we leave behind. Money and lands may pass away, but a spiritual inheritance is eternal. We may not all write books, but we can all share our testimonies of the Lord's faithfulness with our children and grandchildren. This is how we leave a well in the valley for them, a source of spiritual nourishment that will never run dry. 

In Deuteronomy 6, we are not just encouraged but urged to speak of the Lord freely and frequently in our homes. Our conversations about God should flow as naturally as water from a well. I can still hear the words of my grandparents as they shared their salvation stories, the times when the Lord intervened in their lives, and the prayers they fervently offered and answered. These memories I now pass on to my children and grandchildren, creating a legacy of faith and leaving a well in the valley for them to draw from.

What are you leaving for others? A well full of faith and encouragement or a dry valley? 

Psalm 78:6 reads, "That the generation to come might know them, even the children which should be born; who should arise and declare them to their children." Do you see the idea? Each generation is responsible for leaving a well in the valley for the next.

Today is a good time to start digging!

Week Fourteen - Making Jesus Glad

I'm not necessarily a people-pleaser, but I love making people happy. Sometimes, in my desire to create happiness, I overdo it a bit and become annoying or interfering, even if my main motivation is to create happiness. 

I got to thinking about this a bit when I read Spurgeon's comments on a little phrase found in Psalm 45:8, which reads, "They have made thee glad." He challenged his readers to think about how to make Jesus glad and offered four beautiful suggestions.

We can gladden the heart of our Saviour by expressing our love. Just as we love to hear words of loving affirmation, Jesus, too, longs to hear our sweet whispers in His ear.  "I love thee, Lord, and I lift my voice to worship you. Oh, my soul rejoice," as the songwriter wrote. 

I know our efforts to love Jesus will never outweigh God's love for us, but our expressions comfort us and delight our Lord. Have you told Him you love Him today?

Our praise gives Him joy. The melody of our heart flowing with deepest gratitude becomes a sweet-smelling savor.  It is called the fruit of our lips in Hebrews 13:15-16. "By him therefore let us offer the sacrifice of praise to God continually, that is, the fruit of our lips giving thanks to his name. But to do good and to communicate forget not: for with such sacrifices God is well pleased."  Well pleased, meaning gratified entirely. When we recognize and praise the Lord for all He does and who He is, He finds joy and gladness.

Our gifts, used for His glory, bring Him joy. God loves to see us lay our time, talents, and substance upon the altar. The loving motivation that springs from such sacrifices gladdens His heart. Our lowly offerings and humble service, done from a heart desiring to please the Saviour, are of great reward.

And Spurgeon's final suggestion was that our holiness brings joy to Jesus' heart. It is like frankincense and myrrh to Him. Spurgeon writes, When you "forgive your enemy, you make Christ glad; distribute of your substance to the poor, and He rejoices; be the means of saving souls, and you give Him to see of the travail of His soul; proclaim His gospel, and you are a sweet savor to Him; go among the ignorant and lift up the cross, and you have given Him honor. " When our lives are lived in holiness, all heaven rejoices.

So today, dear friend, how will your life bring joy and gladness to your Saviour? How will you express your love? Will your tongue sing and speak praise? Is there a gift or service motivated by a heart desiring to please your Lord? And is your life living in holiness before Him so all can see the Light?

Week Thirteen - Be On the Lookout!

Jesus entered Jerusalem to the people's praise and then went to Bethany for the night. He returned to the city the next morning, ready to teach the people more about God and prepare the disciples for the upcoming events. 

You can read this account in Matthew, chapters 21-25. It contains familiar verses and phrases like "all things whatsoever ye shall ask in prayer believing ye shall receive." "Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind." "Heaven and earth shall pass away, but my words shall not pass away," but there is one phrase Jesus repeated. In Matthew 24:42 and 25:13, we read, "Watch, therefore."  

Be on the lookout! And what for? For His return. 

Over 2,000 years have now passed, and Christians are still looking. Does that mean He isn't coming? Does that mean His word is false or has failed? Hardly. It simply means His return is closer today than it was when He first promised. 

Throughout the centuries, the instruction has remained, "Watch." And not just idly but actively. Jesus' instruction through the parables, woes, and other topics throughout Matthew 21-25 gives us insight into the activity of watching. 

In Matthew 25:1-12 Jesus gives the parable of the Ten Virgins. Five were ready and watching; five were not. In Luke 12:40, Jesus puts it this way, "Be ye therefore ready also: for the Son of man cometh at an hour when ye think not."

The wise, faithful servant stays prepared, active, and on the lookout. His stance is not one of slumbering or laziness but effective care, service, and due diligence to be ready for the Master's return. Matthew 24:37-41 tells us that life will go on as normal, but one day, there will be a snatching away - the rapture of the believers. 

This week, as we prepare to celebrate our Lord's resurrection, is a good time to be on the lookout and on the look-in! Are we ready? Are we prepared? Are we watching? In a moment when you think not, as He said, He will return. 

Week Twelve - But I Have Prayed For You

Jesus tells Simon Peter, "But I have prayed for thee." Just think about that statement! Jesus, the Redeemer, God incarnate, prayed for Peter. And not only that, He pleads for us. He is our advocate before the throne of God.

What prompted this comment by Jesus was the threat upon Peter's life from Satan himself.  "Simon, Simon," Jesus says, "behold Satan hath desired to have you, that he may sift you as wheat." Jesus didn't say, "Go and pray for yourself." That might be good advice, but that's not what Jesus said. He doesn't say, "I will keep you watchful so you can fight him off." Instead, Jesus assures Peter of His personal intervention through intercessory prayer. The full comment reads, "But I have prayed for thee, that thy faith fail not: and when thou art converted, strengthen thy brethren."

Spurgeon says, "Little do we know of what we owe to our Saviour's prayers." I find it totally precious and personal that Jesus prayed for Peter, and I find it humbling and amazing to think He would be praying for me. How wonderful to think that Jesus' prayers held back any mischief Satan could have done in our lives.

Spurgeon again writes, "How we shall thank Him because He never held His peace, but day and night pointed to the wounds upon His hands, and carried our names upon His breastplate!"

Notice this. Even before Satan began to tempt Peter, Jesus had already entered a plea in heaven. "Mercy outruns malice." Jesus checked Satan even in his very desire and nipped it in the bud. He entered a counterplea to the heavenly court even before an accusation was made.

"O Jesus, what a comfort it is that You have pleaded our cause against our unseen enemies; countermined their mines, and unmasked their ambushes." (Spurgeon)

That brings me to the idea of intercessory prayer. We aren't omniscient like Jesus, but we can pray ahead of time, too. Satan comes to steal and destroy, but the prayers of God's people thwart his plans. Are you praying for your grandchildren? Not just for them as they are today, but for their future spouse and career? Are you pleading with the Lord for their salvation and sanctification? Are you praying for safety over those loved ones who are traveling or commuting? Are you praying for a hedge of protection around your pastor and your church? Satan desires to sift us all, but through intercessory prayer, we call God into future situations.

"I have prayed for you." Can you say that? Are you an intercessor for others?

Week Eleven - The Comparison Trap

Don't you find conversations annoying that are marked by trying to outdo the other person? Where the next story grows grander than the previous, and emphasis is placed on who is better or bigger. It's like playing King of the Mountain with words. 

Here's the thing about comparison: No one ever truly wins. Why? Comparison is a trap of pride; it hinders God's work in your life.

Let's consider a few thoughts.

1) Comparison creates obstacles in relationships. When we participate in comparison, people begin to avoid us. No one wants to be constantly judged and weighed by the words of a prideful person.

2) Comparison hinders our growth. We cripple our development when we play the comparison game because the lack of wisdom heard in our words and seen in our actions overshadows our potential, good qualities, and abilities.

3) Comparison fosters fear and misunderstanding. Verbal bullying and intimidation of others cause them to avoid us and make people fearful that association with us might damage their reputation. We are viewed as power-hungry and insensitive. 

4) It limits our faith and spiritual growth when we are constantly trying to make ourselves look better than someone else. It also blocks fellowship and taints ministry. That must be why God says, "For we dare not make ourselves of the number, or compare ourselves with some that commend themselves: but they measuring themselves by themselves, and comparing themselves among themselves, are not wise." 2 Corinthians 10:12

So what should we do? Let's remember that God is not a respector of persons. He views us all equally with love and accountability. We must examine our hearts and see if we are guilty of this comparison trap. 

Do we brag? Do we try to make others look smaller and ourselves look grander? Do we feel the urge to compete or feel we must be seen? If so, these are signs of immature and prideful thoughts.

It would be best to entrust ourselves to God and refrain from bragging and showboating. When we stand before Him, there will be no place for comparison. We will stand alone and answer solely for ourselves. How much sweeter and wiser would it be not to be found guilty of comparison?

Week Ten - The Hand of God

As morning broke, my prayers began, and my heart brimmed with praise for God's greatness and the majesty of His creation. His sovereign dealing with men and ultimate rule over all humbled me and brought rejoicing as I praised Him for His hand upon my life.

Then, I went to my little study to do my morning devotions, and God, through the writings of Spurgeon from over a hundred years ago, met me there.

"The hand of God," Spurgeon wrote, "strengthens my soul and lifts the spirit upward toward eternal things." And that is what I had already experienced in my early morning prayers. God's hand heals, "cooling the heat of my burning brow and staying the tumult of my palpitating heart." Unwearied, the hand of God bears "the earth's huge pillars up and sustains my spirit." Loving me and all the saints, in majesty, "breaking the enemy into pieces to subdue my sins."

The hand of God upon my life gives me confidence, assurance, pleasure, comfort, and peace. I am always humbled and blessed when I meditate on God's loving hand involved in every area with love, power, and faithfulness.

A quick look through the Word reveals more about God's hand.

In 2 Samuel 24:14, David fell into God's hand for blessing.

In 1 Kings 18:46, Elijah was strengthened by the hand of God, and in Ezra 7:6 & 28, Ezra's was strengthened by the same.

Psalms 118:1 and 16 tell us God's hand does valiantly, and in Proverbs 21:1, we read that the king's heart is in God's hand.

If you have ever read the book of Ezekiel, you will find the mention of God's hand throughout the book. This prophet knew God's power, and His hand was upon Ezekiel's life and ministry.

When we turn to the New Testament, we read that the hand of God was upon Jesus in Luke 1:66, on the disciples in Acts 11:21, and on the apostle Paul in Acts 13:11.

And, it is upon us, His children, for blessing, direction, protection, and all we might need.

So, when we come to John 10:29, we can humble and thankfully receive the promise of security. Nothing, no one can pluck us out of the hand of God, our Father, or our Saviour's hand. We are doubly secure.

Dear friend, do you know assuredly that God's hand of blessing is upon your life? I hope so because the flip side isn't as beautiful.

God's hand is also known as a hand of judgment against those who stand against Him. And His is the final judgment. None of us escape the hand of God. So today, make sure you are on the right side of this truth.

Week Nine - More, More, More

"More, more, more," cries society, "more entertainment, more sports, more food, more excitement." In an insatiable urge to fulfill every physical desire, they continue scrambling to collect more stuff, do more things, and have more than their wallet can afford. 

We are often like the person at the restaurant gorging themselves until bursting and then picking up the dessert menu. We think life should have no limits or restraints, every whim should be catered for, and every desire should be realized. 

In the Western world, we have so much wealth that we cannot imagine being without food or hindered in our dreams. We are happy and content as long as life goes so prosperously along with us. Why? Because, as Spurgeon says, our "love is the love of the table, not of the Host: a love to the cupboard, not to the Master of the house."

While we are so busy consuming, we fail to recognize the Source. Who is it that gives you wealth? Where does your good health come from? Who provides for you?

We are often like the city kid who doesn't know where his vegetables come from. He buys and consumes without consideration or thought for the hours of labor by the farmer or the sun and rain from God in heaven.

Today's blog is a call to reality. Do you find yourself caught in the consumer trap? Do you buy needlessly or spend impulsively? Do you rarely stop to thank God? Do you recognize all you have as a gift from Him, or do you consume without thought or thankfulness?

I remember my grandmother advising my parents about saying grace at the table. She told them, "When we began thanking God for what we had to eat before each meal, God blessed and increased our lives."

So my parents began saying grace, a practice that has continued. Do you and your family stop to pray before meals? 

Let me challenge you. Before you stuff another greasy hamburger in your mouth or gulp down another milkshake, carefully consider whether you are consuming without thought or can honestly thank God for this treat. Before spending money on another device, consider whether it is a wise investment or just another trinket that will wind up in a drawer. Are your eating and spending habits honoring the Host, or a sign of you uncontrollably wanting more, more, and more?

Week Eight - Apprehended

I have never been arrested. I've had a few traffic tickets, but thankfully, I have never been sought and apprehended by the law. However, I have been apprehended by Christ, which is beautiful. 

The other day, God challenged me with the word apprehend during my prayer walk. Here are some of my thoughts.

Philippians 3:12-14 reads, "Not as though I had already attained, either were already perfect: but I follow after, if that I may apprehend that for which also I am apprehended of Christ Jesus. Brethren, I count not myself to have apprehended: but this one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind, and reaching forth unto those things which are before, I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus."

When the Bible says apprehend, it isn't the idea of being captured by the law; it means to lay hold of, obtain, understand, or comprehend. It's fun to reread those verses and switch apprehend for these various meanings. When you do that, the definition becomes more apparent. By the way, the word attain is the same basic word as apprehend, so you could change out that one, too.

When I meditate on these verses, I understand that Paul knew whose he was, where he came from, and where he was going. With focus, he humbly set his heart toward knowing more of Christ. That challenged me!

I began thinking: I was apprehended, by today's definition, when Christ captured my heart. However, according to the Bible's definition, there should also be an ongoing desire for apprehension. The love of Christ constrains me; holds me fast. Like the side of apprehending which means to lay hold of, I am captured and held by His love. Not only that but I long for more of that love and to know Him more fully.

Phil 4:6-7 reads, "Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God. And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus." 

Do you see the idea of apprehending here? It is understanding that we seek. It alludes to us, passes all understanding, yet draws us in. It is the resting of our souls into the knowledge of God that brings us peace in all situations. It keeps our mind, meaning it guards and watches over us. And there again is the idea of apprehended. Apprehended by Christ, guarded, protected, watched over.

Look at one more passage with me. Ephesians 3:17-19 says, "That Christ may dwell in your hearts by faith; that ye being rooted and grounded in love, May be able to comprehend with all saints what is the breadth, and length, and depth, and height; And to know the love of Christ, which passeth knowledge, that ye might be filled with all the fullness of God."

When we apply the definition of apprehend to this verse, the word we want to consider is comprehend. It is virtually the exact word as apprehend, meaning to lay hold of, understand, and make one's own. When we allow the Word of God and the love of Christ to lay hold of our lives, our eyes are opened to the vastness of His love and the power of His Word. We are captured by His beauty and in awe of the pearl of great price given for us and to us, making us His own.

Let me challenge you to allow your thoughts to be apprehended (captured) by this beauty. Meditate on what it means to be apprehended by Christ and lay hold of the truths given to you. You will be left in awe of whose you are, how far He has brought you, and where He will take you as you seek to apprehend (understand) His love.

Week Seven - Trust Your Heart

Happy Valentine's Day!

"Trust your heart" is a phrase we often hear and read on social media. We may even accept it as truth, but you might be surprised that God's Word does not advocate it. 

Proverbs 28:26 reads, "He that trusteth in his own heart is a fool: but whoso walketh wisely, he shall be delivered."

When we say we trust in our heart, we say we have confidence in ourselves, feel secure, and have our hopes set there.

Really? Think about your heart for a moment. Your heart is the seat of your emotions. Are they consistent? Have you ever been deceived or let down by them? Where might it lead you if you followed your heart in every circumstance?

The verse is also referring to your heart as your mind. Do you always understand the situations you face? Do you always have the answers? Hardly.

With this short consideration, I think we'd agree that our emotions and thoughts are unreliable guides for life. So, to trust our hearts is unwise.

What is wise? To walk with skill and confidence in God and His Word is much safer and more reliable than our emotions and ideas.

And what is the promise of the Proverbs 28:26? "He shall be delivered."

When we say we trust our hearts, we expect our hearts to deliver us from our problems, which is a misplaced expectation. Our hearts cannot deliver us. Most usually, they lead us into misunderstanding and emotional upset. 

However, God repeatedly tells us to trust Him. He is our deliverer, shield, and protector, guiding us into truth and delivering us from evil through the work of the Spirit and His Word.

When someone says, "Trust your heart," I hear warning signals because my Bible tells me my heart is deceitful and desperately wicked. I know it to be self-focused and rarely spiritually guided.

So, I repeat a different truth. Proverbs 3:5-6, "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."

Where do you place your trust?

Week Six - Positive Reinforcement

What makes you happy and lifts your spirits? This can be different for each of us. I am lifted by times with friends and a delicious iced coffee. Tom has been taking me to a little coffee shop called Skooters with a fantastic caramel iced coffee. It just makes me smile with every sip.

Another thing that makes me laugh is the game show The Price is Right. I have fun guessing the prices and enjoy watching the competitors' reactions. I've always loved game shows and playing board games.

Some people get positive reinforcement from food. Some gain strength from hugs, music, or family. I know others who need shopping therapy. They enjoy the search, the scents, and the bargains. For others, just knowing they did a good job or learned a skill to meet a goal is their happy place. While others enjoy puzzles, sports, or even a good walk.

Whatever you use to regain a positive outlook, lift your spirits, or make you happy, I hope you recognize that they are temporary. I should only drink one iced coffee. A steady diet of them, and they would lose their attraction. The same goes for almost anything we enjoy. All things are to be enjoyed in moderation, right?

How quickly something we enjoy today can be spoiled by overuse. But I have found this same principle does not apply to the Lord. Why? Because He is always fresh and new. His mercies are renewed every morning. He is the everlasting spring of refreshment and positive reinforcement. 

The positivity of the Lord is directed to us with patient perseverance. His thoughts toward us are more than the number of the sand and always for our good. We are loved with an everlasting love that always outlasts my iced coffee.

Dear friend, if you want something to lift your spirits, don't settle for a cup of coffee or a temporary fix. Bring yourself to the everlasting well of life where you will never thirst again. Let your heavenly Father be your eternal source of positive reinforcement.

ADVERT: If you are seeking encouragement, please check out my devotional books at www.gailgritts.com

Week Five - Monday Mornings

Mondays with My Old Pastor by Jose Navajo is a fantastic book about every minister's struggle. I read it several years ago and heartily recommend it. It is the type of book every person in ministry should read and any person looking to understand the pressure on a pastor and learn more about the spiritual life. I came across some quotes I copied out, and they blessed my heart again. Today, I'd like to share some of them with you.

Speaking of prayer, the author writes, "Although I fall down undone at times, I always get up renewed, transformed, victorious . . . and most of all renewed . . . It's on our knees before Him where we find balance."

This has been my experience of prayer as well. Sometimes, I come entirely broken, disheartened, and confused. But the Lord meets me there and revives my spirit. How about you?

Then he says, "I kept on cooking for God, but I had kicked God out of the kitchen." I've done that, too; I've gotten so busy working in ministry that I forgot God. Suddenly, I would notice I was doing things in my own strength. I'd kicked God out. How about you?

Consider this one. "When the axe gets dull, we will have to spend double the energy to obtain half the results." Oh, my! I've been a dull axe. I've found myself expending double the energy and seeing less happen. Have you? It forces me to stop my whirling and return to my spiritual center. No amount of my effort accomplishes more than my faith in God's ability.

Let me quickly list a few more short quotes.

"Serve as you pray and pray as you serve."

"God loves fellowship more than work."

"Don't work for God; work with God."

"Do not make changes in times of storm."

And I could continue on with the wealth of wisdom held in just this one book. If you are in ministry and struggling, get yourself a copy and enjoy the beauty of the story. If you are looking to grow in your spiritual life, glean from the experience speaking and see if God doesn't use this book to encourage your heart.

Week Four - Needing Directions

Before the days of the GPS, there was the MAP which sometimes became an object of contention as we travelled America on deputation. I prefer a straight route, and I'm not afraid to take a shortcut. But my husband prefers main roads, even if it takes a few minutes longer. Needless to say, we had several heated discussions about which direction we should take, and sometimes we got utterly lost.

Now that the GPS directs our path, we have fewer discussions but sometimes still wind up on a crazy route. Anyway, this idea of direction is often a part of Scripture. Let's look at some things God says about direction.

We are to direct our prayers to Him each morning.

     "My voice shalt thou hear in the morning, O Lord; in the morning will I direct my prayer unto thee, and will look up" (Psalm 5:3).

He directs our path.

      "In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths" (Proverbs 3:6).

He directs our hearts. 

       "And the Lord direct your hearts into the love of God and into the patient waiting for Christ" (2 Thessalonians 3:5).

He directs our steps. 

      "A man's heart deviseth his way: but the Lord directeth his steps" (Proverbs 16:9).

I don't know about you, but I need directions. I feel more confident when I see where I am going and what I am supposed to be doing. As I take time each day to commit my day to the Lord through prayer, I invariably find He directs my day. It might not be the path I had in mind, but it is the path God designed. And as I remember that He directs through love, I find my heart more willing to be patient and trusting. I might have my own idea of what the day should bring, but when I allow the Lord to direct my steps, He has a fantastic way of making the day more than I could have imagined.

So, if you need direction, ponder these few verses and ask the Lord to do the directing. He's much more trustworthy than a GPS or MAP!

Week Three - Open Reward

We have sat for hours at football games, wrestling tournaments, and archery competitions, with track season still ahead of us. As our grandchildren succeed in their sports, we see the other side: the dedication and discipline it takes to make it to state competitions and be noticed by college scouts. No young person enters the winner's circle without the private discipline of self-sacrifice and hard work. 

       Christian, if we expect to receive reward, there must also be the unseen discipline of self-sacrifice, not working for our salvation but because of our salvation. The Lord's promise is for those who serve in secret.

       Jesus teaches us, "That thine alms may be in secret: and thy Father which seeth in secret himself shall reward thee openly. . . But thou, when thou prayest, enter into thy closet, and when thou hast shut thy door, pray to thy Father which is in secret; and thy Father which seeth in secret shall reward thee openly. . .That thou appear not unto men to fast, but unto thy Father which is in secret; and thy Father, which seeth in secret, shall reward thee openly" (Matthew 6:4, 6, 18).

       We are to do three things secretly: give, pray, and fast. And the promise is of open reward. Matthew Henry writes, "The reward will be open; they have it honorably." Honorably, because they have used discipline and followed the commands of God. Just as the athlete disciplines his body and follows the coach's instruction to a successful outcome, we, too, may be assured of open reward as we do the same.

       And what does an open reward look like? Psalm 23:5 gives us a hint. "Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of mine enemies." God's favor is a reward. He displays it before our enemies by blessing our lives. Open reward is seeing our prayers answered. Tangible or visible blessings upon our ministry, work, family, or business may also be considered reward. God knows how to reward us; when He does, we recognize it and give Him thanks and praise.

       The reward can seem far away when we are in the secret place. But just as the athlete trains secretly, we must remember God's promise and remain faithful, consistent, and believing. 

       Two verses come to my mind. "For God is not unrighteous to forget your work and labour of love, which ye have shewed toward his name, in that ye have ministered to the saints, and do minister" (Hebrews 6:10). God sees your secret life. He has not and will not forget you.

       And, "Cast not away therefore your confidence, which hath great recompense of reward. For ye have need of patience, that, after ye have done the will of God, ye might receive the promise" (Hebrews 10:35 36). The perseverance of the saints has great recompense of reward. Recompense means payment of something due. 

       God will keep His promise of reward to those who follow His commands about their secret life. Never doubt it, Christian. There is a reward for the children of God both here and in eternity.

Week Two - Wide Open

The Lord has given me a rather unusual word for 2024, open. Last year's word was adjust, and we experienced a lot of changes in ministry and housing. God was faithful to help me adjust my attitude and expectations, so I'm sure adjust was the right word for 2023. But, open?

My initial thought was to be open to whatever the Lord has for 2024. And I pray that is my continual attitude. But as I look through Scripture, I see even more.

Deuteronomy 28:12, "The Lord shall open unto thee his good treasure . . . to bless all the work of thine hand."  What a precious promise. It was given to Israel as a part of God's blessing connected with their obedience. 

"O, Lord, may I be obedient and see your goodness and blessing upon my work for You through 2024. Open to me your good treasure."

Psalm 51:15, "O Lord, open thou my lips; and my mouth shall shew forth thy praise." 

Psalm 119:18, "Open thou mine eyes, that I may behold wondrous things out of thy law."

Psalm 34:15, "The eyes of the Lord are upon the righteous, and his ears are open unto their cry."

These are lovely prayers and promises, but the one the Lord keeps reinterating to my heart of Psalm 81:10, "Open thy mouth wide, and I will fill it."

It's a funny little verse, but so full of promise. If we will but open up, God will fill us with everything we need. If we open our lives, He will direct us. If we open our hearts, He will give us strength. If we open our minds, He will reveal His wisdom. 

Open

So the question is, Am I going to be open with the Lord in 2024 or preoccupied with my own plans, controlling and demanding, or closed to His will?

It doesn't take much to meditate on what life might bring if I closed my heart and life to the Lord. But if I open myself, the promises abound, and the impossible becomes possible. The negative is flooded out by the positive expectation of God's hand and activity.

As Pastor Mark Formby said, "God is always doing great things, we just have to recognize it and allow it into our lives."

I want to be open and allow God to do great things, don't you? It's going to be exciting and interesting to see how He fills 2024.

Week One - The Tone of Your Life

Somewhere, I read the phrase, the tone of your life. It was noted in my little travel journal, and I thought, "What an apt evaluation at this time of year." Consider these thoughts.

What was the tone of your life in 2023? Was it loud and turbulent? Was it quiet and full of grace? Were you patient or demanding? Were you frustrated or trusting? Looking back, what attitudes, reactions, or decisions could have sounded better?

2023 is finished, but now, this New Year gives us an opportunity to adjust our pitch. If you've ever listened to the William Tell Overture, you'll recall it begins with peaceful music. Then, moves into the galloping section we know so well. Life can also be compared to classical music with a mix of slow and lively sections as we move from year to year or through different seasons of life. But each season, each year, there is a distinct tone.

No doubt you've been through turbulent times. I have as well, but even then, I recognize that the tone of my life remains my choice. How I respond to the circumstances reverberates to those around me and becomes the driving force behind my decisions.

Consider these questions. What is the tone of my life? What do others hear? Do I generate a clear pitch? Is there a constant annoying vibration? Is my tone steady or wavering? 

Here's something fun to consider. In the great symphony of life, what instrument might I be? A drum? A trumpet? A flute? Each instrument has a distinct tone and purpose, and so do you.

As we enter 2024, carve out a space of time to meditate on the tone of your life and do some self-evaluation. How would you want the music of your life to sing to others? What minor keys could be changed? What section of life are you in and what music is it creating? Ask the Lord to give you a new song in this New Year, and let that song be your testimony. 

"And he hath put a new song in my mouth, even praise unto our God: many shall see it, and fear, and shall trust in the Lord" (Psalm 40:3).