Tag: peace

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Starting to Sink

A couple days back I shared with you the story of Peter going overboard. You remember, he saw Jesus walking on the water in the middle of the night and thought it was a ghost. Peter questioned Jesus and asked if it was really him; Jesus said yes. Then Peter said well then let me come to you on the water. Jesus said, ok.

“Just before the light of day, Jesus went to them walking on the water. 26 When the followers saw Him walking on the water, they were afraid. They said, “It is a spirit.” They cried out with fear. 27 At once Jesus spoke to them and said, “Take hope. It is I. Do not be afraid!”

28 Peter said to Jesus, “If it is You, Lord, tell me to come to You on the water.” 29 Jesus said, “Come!” Peter got out of the boat and walked on the water to Jesus. 30 But when he saw the strong wind, he was afraid. He began to go down in the water. He cried out, “Lord, save me!” 31 At once Jesus put out His hand and took hold of him. Jesus said to Peter, “You have so little faith! Why did you doubt?”

32 When Jesus and Peter got into the boat, the wind stopped blowing. 33 Those in the boat worshiped Jesus. They said, “For sure, You are the Son of God!” Matthew 14:25-33 NLV

There’s more to this story than just Peter walking on the water. The first thing we should notice is that everyone in the boat was afraid. They were on the sea in the middle of the night and they thought they saw a ghost coming on the water.

Fear had gripped their hearts. The first thing Jesus wanted to do was calm their fears so he spoke words of encouragement to them. “Don’t be afraid.” We all have a tendency to fear during life’s darkest hours. Perhaps that ghost of failure shows up in your dreams in the middle of the night when you are most vulnerable. Can you hear Jesus? He’s there and He says don’t be afraid.

Peter is embolden by Jesus words so he says “if” it’s you Lord tell me to come. What’s Jesus to say? “No Peter, don’t try this or Yes Peter, it’s me but stay put.”

Jesus says come and Peter went.

His eyes were on Jesus and he walked on the water! But then something happened. Peter began to look around, maybe thinking “hey, boys do you see this?”. He took his eyes off Jesus, saw the waves and felt the wind (external circumstances) and he began to sink. Fear came back and he was going down. I’ve often wondered how does one begin to sink. But in that split second of beginning to go down, Peter cries out, Jesus reaches out and they walk back to the boat together! And the winds ceased.

Do you feel like you are beginning to sink? Maybe you feel like you’re going down for the third time? You’ve felt like you were doing exactly what God wanted you to do, what He called you to do, you heard him say “come” and now the waves and the wind are bigger than you thought and you are going down.

Call out. Jesus is there. He will rescue you and the two of you will walk back to the boat together. Hand in Hand. Once they were safely in the boat, the others who were there realized that Jesus truly was God’s Son and began to praise Him.

I remember one other incident when they were all in the boat and ready to sink in the storm. Jesus stood up and said “Peace, be still”. You know we relate the “peace, be still” to Jesus talking to the wind and the waves but I think that Jesus may have been saying “peace to you disciples who are so fearful” and “be still” to the storm. Just a thought.

In closing I want us to look at a couple verses in Psalms.

“Be still in the presence of the Lord, and wait patiently for him to act. Don’t worry about evil people who prosper or fret about their wicked schemes.” Psalm 37:7 NLT

“Be still, and know that I am God! I will be honored by every nation. I will be honored throughout the world.” 11 The Lord of Heaven’s Armies is here among us; the God of Israel is our fortress.” Psalm 46:10-11 NLT

Be encouraged because it’s God who says “be still, I AM God”!

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Say It Again

I hope all of you have experienced hearing someone you love say your name. Words cannot describe what happens in my heart, the center of my emotions, when I hear “Kris” spoken lovingly from David’s lips. That same emotion rises when I hear “Mom” and “Besta”. There’s a tenderness, a caring, a verbal loving embrace.

It reminds me of a scene from the movie Ever After. Some of you have heard me tell of this before but it came to mind again this morning. I think it has something to do with the fact that this last week I have spoken with all of my family except for AJ and Kylee and heard that sweetness in their voices and had them call my name.

In the movie, close to the end, Henry, the prince, realizes he can’t live without Danielle, Cinderella, so he rides out to save her from her indentured life to Jacque LePew. As he comes up the hill to the fortress walls, she is walking out, having gained her own freedom. He apologizes for doubting her, tells her he loves her and can’t live without her. She stops him in his conversation and says, “Say that again.” He starts to apologize again for failing to trust her and then she says “No, not that. Say the part where you call me by name again.” And then he says her name, Danielle, and declares his love. AWWWW!

There is nothing so sweet than to hear the one you love say your name. It stirs the heart and words can’t explain fully explain the feeling it gives you. WOW! It is completely over-the-top.

I’ve been reading about Samuel and how God called him to service:

“The boy Samuel was Eli’s helper and served the LORD with him. At that time the LORD did not speak directly to people very often. There were very few visions…. 4 The LORD called Samuel, and Samuel answered, “Here I am.” 5 Samuel thought Eli was calling him, so he ran to Eli and said, “Here I am. You called me.” But Eli said, “I didn’t call you. Go back to bed.”
…Finally, Eli understood that the LORD was calling the boy. 9 Eli told Samuel, “Go to bed. If he calls you again, say, ‘Speak, LORD. I am your servant, and I am listening.’” So Samuel went back to bed. 10 The LORD came and stood there. He called as he did before, saying, “Samuel, Samuel!”
Samuel said, “Speak. I am your servant, and I am listening.” I Samuel 3:1-10

Can you imagine? The voice of God calling your name, what a joy!

Then I remembered that God called others by name as well; it started with Adam & Eve; Noah, David, Daniel, Jeremiah, Zacchaeus, the disciples, Mary at the garden tomb, Saul on the road to Damascus and John on the Isle of Patmos; all of these and more had that same wonderful experience of hearing God call them by name.

See what Isaiah says to the children of Israel:

“Descendants of Jacob, I, the LORD, created you and formed your nation.
Israel, don’t be afraid. I have rescued you. I have called you by name; now you belong to me. 2 When you cross deep rivers, I will be with you, and you won’t drown. When you walk through fire, you won’t be burned or scorched by the flames. 3 I am the LORD, your God, the Holy One of Israel, the God who saves you. I gave up Egypt, Ethiopia, and the region of Seba in exchange for you.
4 To me, you are very dear, and I love you. That’s why I gave up nations and people to rescue you. 5 Don’t be afraid! I am with you.” Isaiah 43:1-5 ERV

God the Father has called us by name as well. Yes, He has! In His love He called our name telling us that He has a plan for our lives; a plan to be in fellowship and relationship with Him; a plan of adoption so that we can call Him “Abba Father.”

Hearing God speak our name shouldn’t be a one time experience, limited only to the day we accept Him as Savior. How sad it would be if I only heard David say my name the one time when he made me his wife. No, daily he says my name and tells me he loves me and it never gets old.

Daily God is calling our name and telling us He loves us. Do you hear it or are you too busy and distracted? Take time to listen…and take time to respond. Can you imagine how it thrills His heart to hear you say, “Abba Father, I love you. I want to spend time with you today”?

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Lions and Bears – Oh My!

We just got home from another camping trip to the mountains. This was our second trip this summer – the White Mountains of Arizona are beautiful and so relaxing.

However, they are also the natural habitat for many different kinds of wildlife. This trip we saw elk, deer, turkeys, the ever-present chipmunks and squirrels and a couple of skunks (but I’ll tell you about them a bit later).

For several days before we left I was reading systematically through Psalms and Proverbs. I was really impressed with the verses in those two books that promised safety and protection to “those who serve the Lord”. Now, I’m been walking with the Lord long enough to know that when there’s a reoccurring theme to my reading God is trying to tell me something.

“I can lie down and sleep soundly because you, Lord, will keep me safe.” Psalm 4:8 CEV

“You, Lord God, are my protector. Rescue me and keep me safe from all who chase me.” Psalm 7:1 CEV

“But if you listen to me, you will be safe and secure without fear of disaster.” Proverbs 1:33 CEV

“They will help you to live  a long and beautiful life. 23 You will walk safely and never stumble; 24 you will rest without a worry and sleep soundly.” Proverbs 3:22-24 CEV

“Let all who run to you for protection always sing joyful songs. Provide shelter for those who truly love you and let them rejoice.” Psalm 5:11 CEV

“Live under the protection of God Most High and stay in the shadow of God All-Powerful. 2 Then you will say to the Lord, “You are my fortress, my place of safety; you are my God, and I trust you.” Psalm 91:1-2 CEV

“So whenever we are in need, we should come bravely before the throne of our merciful God. There we will be treated with undeserved kindness, and we will find help.” Hebrews 4:16 CEV

“Don’t be afraid. I am with you. Don’t tremble with fear. I am your God. I will make you strong, as I protect you with my arm and give you victories.” Isaiah 41:10 CEV

These verses were planted in my heart before we left for camping and through my daily reading I was reminded of the Father’s faithfulness and protection. I knew the Lord was preparing me for a situation that might cause me to fear or to feel unsafe and so I began praying protection over Dave and I and our camping trip. I also prayed over our oldest daughter, Kim, her husband, Austin and our youngest grandson, Sam, who would be joining us on the weekend.

When we arrived at the campground on Tuesday afternoon we were excited to get camp set and begin enjoying our time in the mountains. The camp host gave us the customary reminder that there are bears in the woods although none had been spotted for quite some time. But then she said something I had not expected…3 male mountains lions had been spotted close to the campground the day before. We needed to be alert when out walking, especially if we had small children or small dogs. We should also keep all our food locked away in our vehicle during the night.

At that instruction I felt fear begin to grip my thoughts. We were in a tent – this was not good news. Now I knew what the Lord had been preparing me for – I needed to trust Him to be my safety.

The first night I slept very little. Most of the night I was quoting the Scriptures above and reminding myself that the Lord was my safety and protection. I heard every sound and my body was on alert. During the day there was no worry or fear – none. The second night I was able to sleep better and found a greater sense of peace and rest.

On Thursday it was even better. Friday I was able to get a text out to a friend and asked her to pray with me over the situation. I know her to be a prayer warrior and knew she would join me. It was that day that the Lord gave me these verses:

“You let us rule everything  your hands have made. And you put all of it under our power— 7  the sheep and the cattle, and every wild animal, 8  the birds in the sky, the fish in the sea, and all ocean creatures. 9 Our Lord and Ruler,  your name is wonderful everywhere on earth!” Psalm 8:6-9 CEV

The Bible isn’t just words on a page to me. The verses above, and all the verses from cover to cover, as God’s promises to me that He is my protection, my safety, my salvation, my healing, my joy, my peace, my wisdom and my strength. Regardless of the circumstances my strength comes from trusting Him and knowing that He will never lie to me – if the Father promises to be my protection then that’s exactly what He will do!

Kim, Austin and Sam arrived on Friday morning. It was Sam’s first camping trip and we had a wonderful time. Nature walks, discovering old dead trees, seeing wild turkeys, fishing, making s’mores and so many other things. We took over 300 pictures in two days to document all the fun.

Friday night I went to bed confident in God’s protection. Sam wanted to sleep in the RV that night so we read stories, had prayer time and everyone was ready for bed. Now, to the skunks. I had forgotten to put Glory’s dog food up and at 10pm Dave and I both heard a noise in the camp. We looked out with our flashlights but couldn’t see anything. Dave softly yelled and whatever it was ran off. Then about 2am we heard something else – this time we were able to see that it was a couple of skunks. They were not going to be run off and we weren’t going to disturb them. It was only when we got up in the morning that we discovered they had found the container of dog food, gotten the lid off and eaten to their hearts contentment.

We knew they would be back on Saturday night for a second helping so Sam slept in the RV again instead of the tent. It was an interesting end to our camping. We also learned that the lions had been chased out of the area – hunting season started and they, the lions, weren’t staying around with all the hunters and their dogs who were arriving.

Fear is real! The purpose of fear is to break our confidence in God’s word. I’ve heard it said that fear is a fact that we have to deal with but that God’s word is truth and truth is greater than facts – truth changes facts. Facts must submit and conform to truth.

Jesus told the disciples who were on a ship about to sink to “fear not”. The truth was Jesus had said that the boat would go to the other side of the lake. Fear saw the waves and felt the wind, the facts, but God’s word, the truth, calmed the waves!

I would love to say that I live “fear free” but I have to deal with it as much as anyone. However, I have learned that God’s word makes me an overcomer in fearful situations when I let the peace of God rule my heart.

“Don’t worry about anything; instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need, and thank him for all he has done. 7 Then you will experience God’s peace, which exceeds anything we can understand. His peace will guard your hearts and minds as you live in Christ Jesus.” Philippians 4:6-7 NLT

I’m not sure what “lion” is bringing fear into your life – it may be a health issue, finances, relationships, your job, physical danger or some world crisis – but I do know that our command from the Lord is to “fear not” so commit the situation to Him and His peace will guard your heart.

One final word on our camping trip – we were not foolish in our actions; we were alert to our surroundings, we didn’t allow Sam or Glory to run off unattended, we had bear spray and we also had other forms of protection and we covered every circumstance with prayer.

God is ALWAYS faithful and He can ALWAYS be trusted!

“We are still alive because  the Lord’s faithful love never ends. 23 Every morning he shows it in new ways! You are so very true and loyal! 24 I say to myself, “The Lord is my God, and I trust him.” Lamentations 3:22-24 ERV

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Good Morning Lord!

Getting up this morning did you give thanks to the Lord or did you complain about what your day has in store? My day started with waking to the sound of a gentle rain. Nice!

Are you able to drive to work instead of walk? Praise the Lord! If you have no car are you able to walk? Praise the Lord! Do you have a job to go to? Praise the Lord.

Do you have people in your life that are abrasive and aggravating? Or folks who are loving, kind and fun to be around? Then Praise the Lord! The aggravating help you appreciate the loving.

Were you able to have a hot cup of coffee and even some breakfast? Praise the Lord.
Ok, so do you see where I’m going with this – there is always something to Praise the Lord for.

“Thank the LORD for his faithful love and for the amazing things he does for people.
9 He satisfies those who are thirsty. He fills those who are hungry with good things.” Psalm 107:7-8

What is it in your life that you consider good? Health, friends, family, career, cash in your pocket, a nice car, your boat, a new home, a well-trained horse, a shot gun, the right to bear arms – what?

If it’s good, it’s a gift from God so make sure you thank Him today and that you look at all you have to be thankful for instead of wasting precious time being resentful for something “more” you think you should have.

“Everything good comes from God. Every perfect gift is from him. These good gifts come down from the Father who made all the lights in the sky. But God never changes like the shadows from those lights. He is always the same. 18 God decided to give us life through the true message he sent to us. He wanted us to be the most important of all that he created.” James 1:17-18

Let praise be the start and the end of your conversations today.

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Refresher Course Needed

For the last number of days it has been on my heart to repeat a blog posting I did about a year ago. I try to avoid reposting what I have written before but when I do, I usually update it a bit by adding a new Scripture or two and some new thoughts. It’s hard to believe that I have been sharing most every morning for over eight years now. At first, it was an occasional posting on Facebook, maybe two or three times a week but for the last four to five years it’s been a daily ministry. What a joy!

It’s important that we keep God’s word constantly before us. His word is our rock, our foundation, our eternal hope. We can all use a refresher course from time to time. God tells us specifically to remember all that He has done.

I hope this teaching ministers to you again. I know it has certainly encouraged me.

We have been given the opportunity to be free of “dis”.  What is dis?

Dis: a Latin prefix meaning “apart,” “asunder,” “away,” “utterly,” or having a privative, negative, or reversing force.

I was praying for some of you this morning and I found myself praying against “dis”couragment, “dis” aster, “dis”respect, “dis”placement.

So I said, “Lord it appears that you have given us so many wonderful things and our enemy is stealing what you have provided. This shouldn’t be.” And this verse came to mind.

“The robber comes only to steal and to kill and to destroy. I came so they might have life, a great full life.” John 10:10 NLV

I began to look at some “dis” words. Words that are stealing, killing and “des”troying our lives.

Dis-appoint    Dis-courage     Dis-aster     Dis-obedience    Dis-content

Dis-trust    Dis-respect    Dis-lodged    Des-pair    Dis-illusioned

Des-truction     Dis-associate     Dis-card    Dis-able   Dis-turb

Dis-gust     Dis-miss     Dis-dain      Dis-tort     Dis-ease     Dis-cord

God desires that are lives are “dis”less. He wants us to be filled and overflowing with His love and goodness.

“With all my heart I praise the Lord, and with all that I am I praise his holy name!  With all my heart I praise the Lord! I will never forget how kind he has been. 3 The Lord forgives our sins, heals us when we are sick, 4 and protects us from death. His kindness and love are a crown on our heads. 5 Each day that we live, he provides for our needs and gives us the strength of a young eagle.” Psalm 103:1-5 CEV

I encourage you today to make your life a “dis” free zone. If any of those words above have been trying to infiltrate your life grab your Bible and look up the verses for “dis” removal. If you can’t find them on your own you can always email me and I’ll be glad to help you find some.

It’s time that we start living the life God intended; one that’s full of courage, contentment, respect, ease, obedience and trust.

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It’s Monday! Time To Sing

In a few moments the birds will begin to sing. Just before sunrise they join in chorus! What a great way to start the morning.

“I sing because I’m happy, I sing because I’m free
His eye is on the sparrow and I know He watches me, He watches me
His eye is on the sparrow and I know He watches
I know He watches, I know He watches me”

Those are the words to the chorus of an old gospel favorite, His Eye Is on The Sparrow. I love the lyrics of that song. I was reminded of them again this morning as I was reading in Luke 12.

“Jesus said to his followers, “So I tell you, don’t worry about the things you need to live—what you will eat or what you will wear. 23 Life is more important than food, and the body is more important than what you put on it. 24 Look at the birds. They don’t plant, harvest, or save food in houses or barns, but God feeds them. And you are worth much more than crows. 25 None of you can add any time to your life by worrying about it. 26 And if you can’t do the little things, why worry about the big things?” Luke 12:22-26 ERV

I don’t know why we have been conditioned to dread Mondays. We HAVE to go back to work – how about adopting the attitude we get to go back to work? Like I said yesterday, there were days when we had no job. That leaves you with a desperate feeling. Having a job is better. Be thankful!

Those birds that sing each morning don’t differentiate their song because of what day it is on the calendar. No, they just sing every morning.

Monday is a day that always seems to be filled with so many challenges; spiritual, mental, physical and relational. So on Monday’s we need to be thinking like Jesus – we NEED the mind of Christ.

I know I’ve told you this before but I’ve heard it said they are 365 verses in the Bible that give us instruction on not worrying or becoming anxious or fearful. It seems we are a people prone to worry so God takes a lot of time to help us get past that.

“Always be glad because of the Lord! I will say it again: Be glad. 5 Always be gentle with others. The Lord will soon be here. 6 Don’t worry about anything, but pray about everything. With thankful hearts offer up your prayers and requests to God. 7 Then, because you belong to Christ Jesus, God will bless you with peace that no one can completely understand. And this peace will control the way you think and feel.
8 Finally, my friends, keep your minds on whatever is true, pure, right, holy, friendly, and proper. Don’t ever stop thinking about what is truly worthwhile and worthy of praise. 9 You know the teachings I gave you, and you know what you heard me say and saw me do. So follow my example. And God, who gives peace, will be with you.” Philippians 4:4-9 CEV

I remember the first time the Lord really flooded me with His peace. I had gone through a very difficult time physically and emotionally. I was hurting so deeply, I wondered if I could go on. I poured my pain out the Lord; I told Him I didn’t know how to get over the loss. I needed His help. Without it, I didn’t know what I would do.

I started focusing on the Lord and what He had done for me; what He endured for me, death; how much He loves me. I began to thank Him for His love that never ends, His ability to bring answers to my questions, His peace for turmoil and His comfort for my grief.

In my back yard that night I looked at the stars, thanking Him, praising Him, with tears still streaming down my cheeks, I was enveloped by the night and I felt God’s arms of comfort surround me and His peace pour over me. The peace that passes ALL understanding. But as long as I was going to think about me, my problems, my heart ache – I was unable to receive peace. As my thoughts focused on Jesus, the peace came.

Jesus knew we would need His peace. Some of his final words to his disciples were this:

“But the Holy Spirit will come and help you, because the Father will send the Spirit to take my place. The Spirit will teach you everything and will remind you of what I said while I was with you. 27 I give you peace, the kind of peace that only I can give. It isn’t like the peace that this world can give. So don’t be worried or afraid.” John 14:26-27

So as you start the week today, join with the birds in their chorus, keep your mind focused on Jesus and let Him bring you to a place of peace. God bless you all.

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The Sounds of Joy

Can you hear it…the giggles, the laughter, the squeals?

Do you remember being like these kids? What fun it was to run through the sprinkler and play with such abandon. I love it.

So does the Lord.

“Shout praises to the Lord, everyone on this earth. 2 Be joyful and sing as you come in to worship the Lord. 3 You know the Lord is God! He created us, and we belong to him; we are his people, the sheep in his pasture.” Psalm 100:1-3 CEV

There are so many verses written about joy. I can find 187 verses in the King James Bible with 34 of those being in the Book of Psalms. King David knew a thing about joy – he lead a procession, dancing with joy for all the Lord had done.

Another verse from Psalms that means a lot to me is this:

“You make the path of life known to me. Complete joy is in your presence. Pleasures are by your side forever.” Psalm 16:11 GW

Complete joy, that’s what I see in those kids playing in the sprinkler. Not a care in the world, absolute joy in the moment. God wants us to find that type of complete joy in Him. I don’t know where people got the idea that God’s wants us to be unhappy, scowling and miserable. Far from it!

Paul told the Christians at the church in Philippi to rejoice always. Get that, ALWAYS! How is that even possible? Look at his explanation.

“Always be joyful in the Lord! I’ll say it again: Be joyful! 5 Let everyone know how considerate you are. The Lord is near. 6 Never worry about anything. But in every situation let God know what you need in prayers and requests while giving thanks. 7 Then God’s peace, which goes beyond anything we can imagine, will guard your thoughts and emotions through Christ Jesus.

8 Finally, brothers and sisters, keep your thoughts on whatever is right or deserves praise: things that are true, honorable, fair, pure, acceptable, or commendable.” Philippians 4:4-8 GW

Always joyful, never worry. God is working on our behalf. He can handle the needs and requests we bring to Him. When we keep thinking about things that are good, honorable and true we are focusing on the Lord. We have placed ourselves in His presence because we are allowing Him to occupy our thoughts.

When things go wrong we can still have joy.

“ My friends, be glad, even if you have a lot of trouble. 3 You know that you learn to endure by having your faith tested. 4 But you must learn to endure everything, so that you will be completely mature and not lacking in anything.” James 1:2-4 CEV

In the King James version, it says “Count it all joy”. Really, count it joy when you fall into temptations – really? Yes, because the joy comes from knowing that you’re not in this alone! God has promised to never leave us or abandon us. He is constantly with us so that means we are in His presence and in His presence there is fullness of joy!

Joy in knowing we are not alone, joy in knowing that we aren’t operating under our own power or our own wisdom, joy to know that He has created us to be victorious! And when we realize all of that, we are growing and maturing, becoming more Christ-like .

In John 16, Jesus was talking with his disciples the night before His crucifixion. He was giving them last minute instructions. He told them that they would all abandon Him and that He would be alone but He quickly added that the Father would be with Him so He wouldn’t really be alone. (In His presence is fullness of joy)!

He then told the disciples that they would have troubles in this world. Not as big as the crucifixion but troubles all the same. His next words may have seemed strange to them.

He said “Be of good cheer (find joy), for I have overcome the world”.

“ The time is coming, and is already here, when all of you will be scattered. Each of you will go your own way and leave me all alone. Yet, I’m not all alone, because the Father is with me. 33 I’ve told you this so that my peace will be with you. In the world you’ll have trouble. But cheer up! I have overcome the world.” John 16:32-33 GW

Jesus had just told them how he was overcoming the trials in His life – He wasn’t looking for the support of friends and followers but He was simply looking to the One who would never leave Him, the Father, and in the Father’s presence is victory and fullness of joy.

Search for your joy today. It’s not in things, it’s not in people and it’s not based on circumstances. Fullness of joy comes from spending time in the Father’s presence.

As we give Him our time He will fill us joy. Take a run through the sprinklers, laugh, giggle, be joy-filled!

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Don’t Waste Your Mind

The Mind is a terrible thing to waste!  Each day we are bombarded with so much information and it’s all competing for a place in our minds.  We are the ones who decide what downloads we accept and we are the ones who decide what data to delete.
Think about this. What is the difference between the Apostle Paul and Hitler?  Both spent a great deal of time destroying the Jews and Christians and feeling they were justified in doing so.  Paul was a part of the first lynch mob, or stoning party, that destroyed the life of Stephen, the first Christian martyr. After that he did everything he could to track down the Christians, have them arrested and killed. Hitler rounded up the Jews and tried to annihilate them. The difference – repentance!
Paul’s message of God’s unconditional love and his understanding of grace were born out of his past. But what’s that got to do with your mind – plenty. Your mind has been telling you, you’re unworthy – God can’t or won’t love you; He won’t forgive you; He won’t use you! You’re a disgrace – if people knew who you were or what you did, they wouldn’t want anything to do with you. Such a waste!
“All the other apostles are greater than I am. I say this because I persecuted the church of God. That is why I am not even good enough to be called an apostle. 10 But, because of God’s grace, that is what I am. And his grace that he gave me was not wasted. I worked harder than all the other apostles. (But I was not really the one working. It was God’s grace that was with me.)” I Corinthians 15:9-10 ERV
Paul knows how it feels to deal with feelings of unworthiness but instead of wallowing in it he downloaded an overwhelming dose of God’s grace and stepped into the acceptance of God’s unconditional love.
“8 But Christ died for us while we were still sinners, and by this God showed how much he loves us.” Romans 5:8 ERV (written by Paul)
There is also a comparison that can be drawn between Peter and Judas. They both denied Christ. Peter repented. Judas was overwhelmed with guilt and shame and hung himself.  Forgiveness and restoration were available to both of them but only one appropriated it.
Then there was a young man who lived a life of drunkenness, greed, self gratification and immoral living. He chose to walk a path that went against everything he had been raised to believe in. He had no concern on how this affected his family – he just didn’t care! But in desperation he returned home. He had run out of money, had no place to stay and there was a famine and recession going on.
“But when he came to himself, he said, ‘How many of my father’s hired servants have bread enough and to spare, and I perish with hunger! 18 I will arise and go to my father, and will say to him, “Father, I have sinned against heaven and before you, 19 and I am no longer worthy to be called your son. Make me like one of your hired servants.”’ Luke 15:17-19 NKJV
Do you see where his mind was? “I’m not worthy”. The son underestimated the love of His father.
“And he arose and came to his father. But when he was still a great way off, his father saw him and had compassion, and ran and fell on his neck and kissed him. 21 And the son said to him, ‘Father, I have sinned against heaven and in your sight, and am no longer worthy to be called your son.’
22 “But the father said to his servants, ‘Bring out the best robe and put it on him, and put a ring on his hand and sandals on his feet. 23 And bring the fatted calf here and kill it, and let us eat and be merry; 24 for this my son was dead and is alive again; he was lost and is found.’ And they began to be merry.” Luke 15:20-24 NJKV
Repentance -> forgiveness -> restoration = GRACE.
I heard this testimony of a pastor who is very well known in our nation. His wife was asked why she felt her husband had such a generous, giving heart. Her reply brought tears to his eyes. She said she felt it was because he had never lost sight of his salvation. He had lived a life much like that of the prodigal – sex, drugs. This pastor has always been “mind-filled” with God’s great love. God’s great gift have always been at the forefront in his thinking. He gives generously because he has been forgiven so much.
As I said at the beginning, a mind is a terrible thing to waste – so don’t! Don’t waste it looking at the unworthiness of your past, instead look at God’s grace and love and then touch the lives of others. Don’t let your past hold you in bondage but instead let God’s grace free you to love others.
I leave you with the words of Paul
“So, as a prisoner for the Lord, I beg you to live the way God’s people should live, because he chose you to be his. 2 Always be humble and gentle. Be patient and accept each other with love. 3 You are joined together with peace through the Spirit. Do all you can to continue as you are, letting peace hold you together.” Ephesians 4:1-3 ERV
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Left But Not Alone

I have a question for you parents this morning. Do you remember a time when you had to leave your child somewhere and it made your heart ache? Maybe it was the first day of kindergarten, maybe it was college or boot camp, it could have been at the door to the operating room in the hospital.

A sinking feeling for sure. Even now those times bring tears to your eyes and ache to your heart.

This morning I was reading I Samuel 1 about Hannah and how she longed so deeply for a child. The Lord heard and answered her prayer and as a response of devotion to Him she then took that little boy and gave him back to the Lord.

“When the boy was old enough to eat solid food, Hannah took him to the Lord’s house at Shiloh. She also took a bull that was three years old, 20 pounds of flour, and a bottle of wine.

25 They went before the Lord. Elkanah killed the bull as a sacrifice to the Lord as he usually did. Then Hannah gave the boy to Eli. 26 She said to him, “Pardon me, sir. I am the same woman who stood near you praying to the Lord. I promise that I am telling the truth. 27 I prayed for this child, and the Lord answered my prayer. He gave me this child. 28 And now I give this child to the Lord. He will serve the Lord all his life.”

Then Hannah left the boy there and worshiped the Lord.”
I Samuel 1:24-28 ERV

The story of Hannah and Samuel isn’t just a fable that makes a good read. It is the true story of a loving mother and godly woman. Imagine how she must of wrestled with her emotions as she made the decision to give Samuel to Eli, the priest, and leave him there.

Now imagine, if you will, another parent who was willing to give up their child. This time, however, the child was given as a sacrifice for the sins of the world.

“Yes, God loved the world so much that he gave his only Son, so that everyone who believes in him would not be lost but have eternal life.” John 3:16 ERV

Hannah gave her son to a loving God but God gave His Son to an unloving world. Hannah knew her son would be well cared for, God knew His Son would be hated and abused.

It’s important that we realize the great sacrifice that our heavenly Father made in giving His Son! We can’t take it lightly. He gave so that we can have life eternal.

He gave because of His great love for us!

“Christ died for us when we were unable to help ourselves. We were living against God, but at just the right time Christ died for us. 7 Very few people will die to save the life of someone else, even if it is for a good person. Someone might be willing to die for an especially good person. 8 But Christ died for us while we were still sinners, and by this God showed how much he loves us.” Romans 5:6-8 ERV

God gave one Son to gain many. Once we accept the sacrifice of Jesus we are given the right to be called the sons of God.

“The Father has loved us so much! This shows how much he loved us: We are called children of God. And we really are his children. But the people in the world don’t understand that we are God’s children, because they have not known him. 2 Dear friends, now we are children of God. We have not yet been shown what we will be in the future. But we know that when Christ comes again, we will be like him. We will see him just as he is.” I John 3:1-2 ERV

Maybe you’re going through a tough time right now. Maybe you feel that you have been abandon, left all alone – let me assure you that that isn’t true. Jesus told His disciples that even though He would go away He would send a Helper who would be with us until His return.

“But you are filled with sadness because I have told you all this. 7 Let me assure you, it is better for you that I go away. I say this because when I go away I will send the Helper to you. But if I did not go, the Helper would not come.” John 16:6-7 CEV

God the Father has sent the Holy Spirit to be our helper and our comforter. We are not alone. We have the someone who is constantly with us and gives us the strength we need for each and every day!

“I have told you these things while I am still with you. 26 But the Holy Spirit will come and help you, because the Father will send the Spirit to take my place. The Spirit will teach you everything and will remind you of what I said while I was with you.

27 I give you peace, the kind of peace that only I can give. It isn’t like the peace that this world can give. So don’t be worried or afraid.” John 14:25-27 CEV

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Safe on Stormy Seas

Dave and I like to watch historically factual movies. Over the last few months we have seen stories on the life of Mary, Queen of Scots; a prison ship that sailed from England to New South Wales; a series on the founding of the western frontier; one based on the fur trappers and traders that opened northern trades routes and another on the Revolutionary War.

At some point during each one of these we have made the comment that we certainly have an easy life compared to those who came before us. We had to consider how we would have reacted if we had been alive during those times.

This morning while I was praying and thanking God for the life I have I began to consider these people and their hardships and then I thought of Paul, the apostle. His life was impacted by persecution and peril. I focused in on his strength and resolve. I want you to see his comments. I think you will find hope and encouragement by seeing how the Lord met him in his greatest struggles.

Paul accepted the life of a missionary. He traveled Europe and Asia proclaiming the message of Christ. Each city he went too had converts but also critics. Some of the critics sought to discredit Paul by bragging about their credentials. This is where we find Paul speaking up in II Corinthians 11. The passage I am including is lengthy but please read it. Listen to the words of a man who has faced severe danger and persecution.

“Are they Jews? So am I. Are they from the family of Israel? So am I. Are they from the family of Abraham? So am I. 23 Do they work for Christ? I have worked for Him much more than they have. (I speak as if I am crazy.) I have done much more work. I have been in prison more times. I cannot remember how many times I have been whipped. Many times I have been in danger of death. 24 Five different times the Jews whipped me across my back thirty-nine times. 25 Three times they beat me with sticks. One time they threw stones at me. Three times I was on ships that were wrecked. I spent a day and a night in the water. 26 I have made many hard trips. I have been in danger from high water on rivers. I have been in danger from robbers. I have been in danger from the Jews. I have been in danger from people who do not know God. I have been in danger in cities and in the desert. I have been in danger on the sea. I have been in danger among people who say they belong to Christ but do not. 27 I have worked hard and have been tired and have had pain. I have gone many times without sleep. I have been hungry and thirsty. I have gone without food and clothes. I have been out in the cold. 28 More than all these things that have happened to my body, the care of all the churches is heavy on me. 29 When someone is weak, I feel weak also. When someone is led into sin, I have a strong desire to help him. 30 If I must talk about myself, I will do it about the things that show how weak I am. 31 The God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ is to be honored and thanked forever. He knows I am telling the truth. 32 In the city of Damascus the leader of the people under King Aretas put soldiers at the gates to take me. 33 But I was let down in a basket through a window in the wall and I got away.” II Corinthians 11:22-33 NLV

People either hated Paul or loved him. His message was one of life and peace but it was greatly opposed yet he kept going. Where did he find the strength? He tells us.

“8 I asked the Lord three times to take it away from me. 9 He answered me, “I am all you need. I give you My loving-favor. My power works best in weak people.” I am happy to be weak and have troubles so I can have Christ’s power in me. 10 I receive joy when I am weak. I receive joy when people talk against me and make it hard for me and try to hurt me and make trouble for me. I receive joy when all these things come to me because of Christ. For when I am weak, then I am strong.” II Corinthians 12:8-10 NLV

Do you see the answer to Paul’s prayer? “When I am weak, then I am strong”. That’s the same answer that Christ gives to us. When we feel weak, helpless, hopeless, discouraged, misunderstood, pick on or abandoned we can find strength in our weakness because Christ will come to make us strong. Paul wasn’t always saved from the storm but he was always safe in the storm.

“Christ is the one who gives me the strength I need to do whatever I must do.” Philippians 4:13 ERV

Jesus said, “A thief comes only to rob, kill, and destroy. I came so that everyone would have life, and have it in its fullest.” John 10:10 CEV

We have Jesus’ word that He came to provide us with a good life, a life of victory and peace. He promised to give us strength for whatever comes our way. So many times we want a life that is “storm free” and start to cave when troubles come. Remember, Daniel wasn’t saved from the lion’s den but in it. Noah wasn’t kept from the flood but he was safe above it. Jesus wasn’t kept from the cross but rose victoriously from the tomb. Here’s one final thought from the Apostle Paul. One that will give encouragement and hope.

“We are like clay jars in which this treasure (God’s strength) is stored. The real power comes from God and not from us. 8 We often suffer, but we are never crushed. Even when we don’t know what to do, we never give up. 9 In times of trouble, God is with us, and when we are knocked down, we get up again. 10-11 We face death every day because of Jesus. Our bodies show what his death was like, so that his life can also be seen in us…

17 These little troubles are getting us ready for an eternal glory that will make all our troubles seem like nothing. 18 Things that are seen don’t last forever, but things that are not seen are eternal. That’s why we keep our minds on the things that cannot be seen.” II Corinthians 4:7-18 CEV

We need to be like Paul, always aware that God is with us. We draw our strength from Him when we face “little troubles”. We get up and go on knowing that God is there to keep us safe on stormy seas.

When we are weak, we are strong in God!

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