As of late, a deep appreciation for historical “Bible people” has grown in me. I will admit, the Old Testament used to bore me, and I felt like I had heard those stories a billion times. But gosh, now that I have committed to really READING the OT, I am seeing the accounts with a different lens. It is amazing how much we can LEARN from people in the Bible (both in the OT and NT). And to see how God works in those that were willing to listen is just grand. I value the fact that these folks God worked through were sinners just like you and me, and most of them screwed up—a LOT. But God kept with them because they kept with God.
Here is an excerpt on Joseph—whose story is found Genesis 30-50:
“Perhaps you can identify with one or more of these hardships Joseph experienced: he was betrayed and deserted by his family; he was exposed to sexual temptation, and punished for doing the right thing; he endured a long imprisonment and was forgotten by those he helped. As you read his story, note what Joseph did in each case. His positive response transformed each setback into a step forward. He didn’t spend much time asking “Why?” he went and whatever he did, God was with him. When you’re facing a setback, the beginning of a Joseph-like attitude is to acknowledge that God is with you. There is nothing like His presence to shed new light on a dark situation…what matters is not so much the events or circumstances of life, but our response to them.”
Enough said.
Monday, June 30, 2008
Being Real.
Save me O God,
For the waters have come up to my neck…
I am worn out calling for help…
But I pray to you, O Lord,
In the time of your favor,
In your great love O God,
Answer me with your sure salvation.
Rescue me from the mire,
Do not let me sink;
Deliver me from those who hate me,
from the deep waters.
Do not let the floodwaters engulf me or the depths swallow me up or the pit close its mouth over me.
Answer me, O Lord,
out of the goodness of your love; in your great mercy turn to me.
Do not hide your face from your servant; answer me quickly,
for I am in trouble.
Psalm 69:1,3a, 13-17
I just read Psalm 69 this morning. It is a long one, so I only put part of it up. Sometimes Psalms are so encouraging to me, even the ones where the author is crying out in distress. The emotions just resonate with me. I find comfort in the fact that even people like David who “walk with God” and find favor in His eyes, have downer times. He doesn’t pretend that life is always good and easy and carefree when you follow God. Many passages in Psalms remind me of journal entries and I love it. It’s a confirmation to me that we have the “green light” to cry out to God, express our frustrations, despair, etc.
What would a blog entry on a verse be without the Bible commentary? Here is what was said:
“But still he prayed. When we are completely beaten down, we are tempted to turn from God, give up, and quit trusting Him. When your situation seems hopeless, determine that no matter how bad things come, you will continue to pray. God will hear your prayer, and He will rescue you. When others reject us, we need God most. Don’t turn from your most faithful friend.”
He is your most faithful friend by the way. The only one who will never let you down. I hope you see this trait in Him. Friends and Family will disappoint. I do it, you do it. It’s bound to happen—it goes hand in hand with being human. But God never does. And it is AWESOME.
For the waters have come up to my neck…
I am worn out calling for help…
But I pray to you, O Lord,
In the time of your favor,
In your great love O God,
Answer me with your sure salvation.
Rescue me from the mire,
Do not let me sink;
Deliver me from those who hate me,
from the deep waters.
Do not let the floodwaters engulf me or the depths swallow me up or the pit close its mouth over me.
Answer me, O Lord,
out of the goodness of your love; in your great mercy turn to me.
Do not hide your face from your servant; answer me quickly,
for I am in trouble.
Psalm 69:1,3a, 13-17
I just read Psalm 69 this morning. It is a long one, so I only put part of it up. Sometimes Psalms are so encouraging to me, even the ones where the author is crying out in distress. The emotions just resonate with me. I find comfort in the fact that even people like David who “walk with God” and find favor in His eyes, have downer times. He doesn’t pretend that life is always good and easy and carefree when you follow God. Many passages in Psalms remind me of journal entries and I love it. It’s a confirmation to me that we have the “green light” to cry out to God, express our frustrations, despair, etc.
What would a blog entry on a verse be without the Bible commentary? Here is what was said:
“But still he prayed. When we are completely beaten down, we are tempted to turn from God, give up, and quit trusting Him. When your situation seems hopeless, determine that no matter how bad things come, you will continue to pray. God will hear your prayer, and He will rescue you. When others reject us, we need God most. Don’t turn from your most faithful friend.”
He is your most faithful friend by the way. The only one who will never let you down. I hope you see this trait in Him. Friends and Family will disappoint. I do it, you do it. It’s bound to happen—it goes hand in hand with being human. But God never does. And it is AWESOME.
Monday, June 23, 2008
Monday's Thought
I am currently reading a John Piper novel, When I don't desire God: How to fight for Joy. I like it. A lot. I am sure I will quote and discuss from it at a later date. Today I will just list two semi-correlating quotes and let you do your own thinking.
Piper quoted John Owen who said, "Be killing sin, or it will be killing you."
John Piper's mom wrote this inscription in the Bible he had at age fifteen, This book will keep you from sin, or sin will keep you from this book"
Ponder away.
Happy Monday!
Piper quoted John Owen who said, "Be killing sin, or it will be killing you."
John Piper's mom wrote this inscription in the Bible he had at age fifteen, This book will keep you from sin, or sin will keep you from this book"
Ponder away.
Happy Monday!
Sunday, June 22, 2008
Mutual Submission
“So do what we tell you. There are four men with us who have made a vow. Take these men, join in their purification rites and pay their expenses, so that they can have their heads shaved. Then everybody will know there is no truth in these reports about you, but that you yourself are living in obedience to the law.”
Acts 21: 23,24
Life Application Bible Commentary:
“Although Paul was a man of strong convictions, he was willing to compromise on non-essential points, becoming all things to all people so that he might save some (1 Cor. 9: 19-23). Often churches split over disagreements about minor issues or traditions. Like Paul, we should remain firm on Christian essentials but flexible on non-essentials. Of course, no one should violate his or her true convictions, but sometimes we need to exercise the gift of mutual submission for the sake of the gospel”
I really don’t think I could state that any better than above. Too often we lose focus and take sides within church denominations over “non-essential” issues. I don’t find that productive. For anyone. Don’t lose sight of the fact that all Christians, whether Presbyterian, Methodist, Baptist, Lutheran, Catholic, etc. have the same end goal in sight. To spread the Good News to all people. Do you believe in Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior? Awesome. Are you living a life that is focused on serving for Him and working out His will? Great! Everything else is just details.
Please don’t take my simplification as me not finding value in tradition or the details. I definitely do. But I do NOT find value in arguing over points the Bible is not clear on, or becoming so focused on different traditions that we create chasms with our brothers and sisters in Christ. When we get to that point, Satan starts winning the battle, because pointless bickering divides/weakens us as the driving Christian force we can be when unified, and causes us to lose focus of the end goal. Each tradition has its own niche of people it will speak to. So let each speak accordingly. If people are learning about our Lord, well that is a GOOD thing. You’ve got to leave some of it up to God. He will move differently in people’s hearts as He sees fits. Remember, it’s not about us and what we think. It’s all about HIM.
Acts 21: 23,24
Life Application Bible Commentary:
“Although Paul was a man of strong convictions, he was willing to compromise on non-essential points, becoming all things to all people so that he might save some (1 Cor. 9: 19-23). Often churches split over disagreements about minor issues or traditions. Like Paul, we should remain firm on Christian essentials but flexible on non-essentials. Of course, no one should violate his or her true convictions, but sometimes we need to exercise the gift of mutual submission for the sake of the gospel”
I really don’t think I could state that any better than above. Too often we lose focus and take sides within church denominations over “non-essential” issues. I don’t find that productive. For anyone. Don’t lose sight of the fact that all Christians, whether Presbyterian, Methodist, Baptist, Lutheran, Catholic, etc. have the same end goal in sight. To spread the Good News to all people. Do you believe in Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior? Awesome. Are you living a life that is focused on serving for Him and working out His will? Great! Everything else is just details.
Please don’t take my simplification as me not finding value in tradition or the details. I definitely do. But I do NOT find value in arguing over points the Bible is not clear on, or becoming so focused on different traditions that we create chasms with our brothers and sisters in Christ. When we get to that point, Satan starts winning the battle, because pointless bickering divides/weakens us as the driving Christian force we can be when unified, and causes us to lose focus of the end goal. Each tradition has its own niche of people it will speak to. So let each speak accordingly. If people are learning about our Lord, well that is a GOOD thing. You’ve got to leave some of it up to God. He will move differently in people’s hearts as He sees fits. Remember, it’s not about us and what we think. It’s all about HIM.
Saturday, June 21, 2008
Taking a moment to walk in their shoes…
“Then Paul said, ‘I am a Jew, born in Tarsus of Cilicia, but brought up in this city. Under Gamaliel I was thoroughly trained in the law of our fathers and was just as zealous for God as any of you are today.”
Acts 22:3
Life Application Bible Commentary:
“By saying that at one time he was as zealous for God as any of his listeners, Paul was acknowledging their sincere motives behind their desire to kill him and recognizing that he would have done the same to Christian leaders a few years earlier. Paul always tried to establish a common point of contact with his audience before launching into a full-scale defense of Christianity. When you witness for Christ, first identify yourself with your audience. They will be much more likely to listen if they feel a common bond with you.”
There are so many lessons we can learn from Paul’s life. That guy was an amazing example of how one can be drastically transformed and utilized by God to further His kingdom. In this particular passage, we learn a captivating way to witness.
Its sounds so simple, right? To “identify with your audience”. And it makes so much sense. I mean, think of all the lectures you attended. Is it just me, or do you tend to put more value in what is discussed when you feel the speaker is credible, that he has been where you have been, or at least understands your way of life? It’s a shame more speakers don’t begin their lectures with this tactic. Paul had that approach down, and had a wonderful way of showing empathy toward whatever audience he stood before. I think the reason we don’t find more lectures structured with this guiding principle is because it actually is a gift not as easy to come by as one might think (partly due to society’s ‘self-focused’ mentality). It takes stepping outside oneself, and seeing life from another’s perspective. When given the platform, we tend to like to puff out our feathers, declare all our credentials, you know, convince the audience of why we deserve the stage. But the humble speakers who get alongside their audiences are the ones that more effectively captivate their listeners.
When I say “audience”, I use that term in the broadest sense possible. A speaker can talk to a few people, or hundreds of thousands. I believe the technique will hold true to any size gathering. I must admit, though awed by Paul, I do often find myself intimidated. Thinking thoughts such as “Oh I could never do that. I will leave that to the more ‘capable’ people.” Or “Gosh, after I learn enough, then I will start trying to witness.” But what if we all thought that way? We can get some basic groundwork from reading the methods leaders in the Bible used to share their faith (Conclusion you should draw…READ your Bible). I say, get out there with what you know. Practice makes ‘perfect’, right?
The method of identifying with your audience may make speeches more effective, but it is a truth that can also spill over and be integrated into building relationships. Just think what could happen if you kept this mindset when meeting new people and interacting with people you already knew. Instead of getting annoyed that someone doesn’t live life like you would, or doesn’t see this world through your lens, try stepping into their shoes for a moment. Take time to get to know the person, what experiences molded them into who they are today. I guarantee your eyes will be opened at how you view them. Their ‘annoying’ character traits might become something you are a bit more patient and compassionate about when you realize where this person has come from. It takes being selfless though. Stopping for a second to realize this world is not all about what you can get out of it, and that maybe, just maybe, all your views and life habits aren’t the “correct” ways, but rather just the familiar for you as an individual.
So that is the challenge for now. To open your mind and see others’ perspectives. I mean really see them. LISTEN to people. Hear where they are coming from. See what happens. You might be amazed at the platform this opens up to you for speaking the Good Word.
Acts 22:3
Life Application Bible Commentary:
“By saying that at one time he was as zealous for God as any of his listeners, Paul was acknowledging their sincere motives behind their desire to kill him and recognizing that he would have done the same to Christian leaders a few years earlier. Paul always tried to establish a common point of contact with his audience before launching into a full-scale defense of Christianity. When you witness for Christ, first identify yourself with your audience. They will be much more likely to listen if they feel a common bond with you.”
There are so many lessons we can learn from Paul’s life. That guy was an amazing example of how one can be drastically transformed and utilized by God to further His kingdom. In this particular passage, we learn a captivating way to witness.
Its sounds so simple, right? To “identify with your audience”. And it makes so much sense. I mean, think of all the lectures you attended. Is it just me, or do you tend to put more value in what is discussed when you feel the speaker is credible, that he has been where you have been, or at least understands your way of life? It’s a shame more speakers don’t begin their lectures with this tactic. Paul had that approach down, and had a wonderful way of showing empathy toward whatever audience he stood before. I think the reason we don’t find more lectures structured with this guiding principle is because it actually is a gift not as easy to come by as one might think (partly due to society’s ‘self-focused’ mentality). It takes stepping outside oneself, and seeing life from another’s perspective. When given the platform, we tend to like to puff out our feathers, declare all our credentials, you know, convince the audience of why we deserve the stage. But the humble speakers who get alongside their audiences are the ones that more effectively captivate their listeners.
When I say “audience”, I use that term in the broadest sense possible. A speaker can talk to a few people, or hundreds of thousands. I believe the technique will hold true to any size gathering. I must admit, though awed by Paul, I do often find myself intimidated. Thinking thoughts such as “Oh I could never do that. I will leave that to the more ‘capable’ people.” Or “Gosh, after I learn enough, then I will start trying to witness.” But what if we all thought that way? We can get some basic groundwork from reading the methods leaders in the Bible used to share their faith (Conclusion you should draw…READ your Bible). I say, get out there with what you know. Practice makes ‘perfect’, right?
The method of identifying with your audience may make speeches more effective, but it is a truth that can also spill over and be integrated into building relationships. Just think what could happen if you kept this mindset when meeting new people and interacting with people you already knew. Instead of getting annoyed that someone doesn’t live life like you would, or doesn’t see this world through your lens, try stepping into their shoes for a moment. Take time to get to know the person, what experiences molded them into who they are today. I guarantee your eyes will be opened at how you view them. Their ‘annoying’ character traits might become something you are a bit more patient and compassionate about when you realize where this person has come from. It takes being selfless though. Stopping for a second to realize this world is not all about what you can get out of it, and that maybe, just maybe, all your views and life habits aren’t the “correct” ways, but rather just the familiar for you as an individual.
So that is the challenge for now. To open your mind and see others’ perspectives. I mean really see them. LISTEN to people. Hear where they are coming from. See what happens. You might be amazed at the platform this opens up to you for speaking the Good Word.
Thursday, June 19, 2008
Nothing Great
Today is one of the "fewer Joelle words" days. I just like this song. I am sad they broke up. :(
LATE TUESDAY
Nothing Great
Same old stuff we have to do.
Over and over and over again each day it seems.
Nothing great to show off my abilities and my worth.
So show me my purpose in the midst of this routine.
Because I am trying to understand why I am here at all,
with so many guesses and too many simple answers.
Could it be that life is not what I think at all.
It’s not the big things but the ordinary in between.
And maybe this is not the time to be waiting for
any better reason to be glad that I am alive at all.
So help me take each day,
each simple thing that I must do to bring glory to You.
And I can search out a lot of ways to keep me doing things
in an attempt to make my mark.
But then maybe I missed the mark of Your desire for me.
So I will trust in You.
In everything I do, I will do it as for You.
And I am learning to understand why I am here at all.
There is no need for guesses when You are the simple answer,
And You showed me that life is not what I think at all.
Its not the big things but the ordinary in between.
And maybe this is not the time to be waiting for
any better reason to be glad that I am alive at all.
So help me take each day,
each simple thing that I must do to bring glory to You.
And maybe this is not the time to be waiting for
any better reason to be glad that we are alive at all.
We can take each day,
each simple thing we must do to bring glory to You.
LATE TUESDAY
Nothing Great
Same old stuff we have to do.
Over and over and over again each day it seems.
Nothing great to show off my abilities and my worth.
So show me my purpose in the midst of this routine.
Because I am trying to understand why I am here at all,
with so many guesses and too many simple answers.
Could it be that life is not what I think at all.
It’s not the big things but the ordinary in between.
And maybe this is not the time to be waiting for
any better reason to be glad that I am alive at all.
So help me take each day,
each simple thing that I must do to bring glory to You.
And I can search out a lot of ways to keep me doing things
in an attempt to make my mark.
But then maybe I missed the mark of Your desire for me.
So I will trust in You.
In everything I do, I will do it as for You.
And I am learning to understand why I am here at all.
There is no need for guesses when You are the simple answer,
And You showed me that life is not what I think at all.
Its not the big things but the ordinary in between.
And maybe this is not the time to be waiting for
any better reason to be glad that I am alive at all.
So help me take each day,
each simple thing that I must do to bring glory to You.
And maybe this is not the time to be waiting for
any better reason to be glad that we are alive at all.
We can take each day,
each simple thing we must do to bring glory to You.
Remember
“Even when everyone else forgets, God doesn’t;
when no one seems to notice, God sees;
when no one seems to care, God cares;
when you feel all alone, you aren’t.”
when no one seems to notice, God sees;
when no one seems to care, God cares;
when you feel all alone, you aren’t.”
Wednesday, June 18, 2008
Pulling Through...
“Then the man said, “Let me go, for it is daybreak.” But Jacob replied, “I will not let you go unless you bless me.”
Genesis 32:26
Bible commentary:
“God encourages persistence in all areas of our lives, including the spiritual. Where in your spiritual life do you need more persistence? Strong character develops as you struggle through tough conditions.”
Persistence. It takes SUCH dedication. We are a people (lets give a big hand to the society we live in) that find ourselves easily bored and quickly uninterested in what lay before us. It is just too easy to move on to the next thing, with so many other options out there. Consistency and routine are virtues many of us just don’t have the patience for. Mind you I said “many”, not all, of us. To remain consistent requires commitment and endurance. Rewarding work results if we buckle down.
The question was asked where our lives might require more persistence. It’s a great question all of us should reflect on. I’m sure I have plenty of areas that I could act a bit more dedicated. With regard to my spiritual walk, I need more diligence in my prayer life and personal relationship with Christ. This is something that I don’t feel I will ever be satisfied with where I am at, no matter how solid I become. I am learning to avoid the mentality that I feel all too many of us take about prayer and talking with God. And that is the belief that if we get in our x amount of minutes of prayer, and x amount of minutes of communication with God, we can pat ourselves on the back and go about the day-to-day of life. You know, check that ‘talking with God’ thing off the day’s To Do List. I’m guilty, 100%, of this logic.
But then I started to reflect on the term personal relationship. And I started thinking about other relationships in my life. When have I ever “checked” a friend or family member off the list? When have I allotted only x amount of minutes and not one second longer? When have I set up one specific time in the day to talk with them, and then only be available at that time? I mean REALLY. How can you have a REAL relationship with all those parameters? For you Marrieds out there, imagine trying to set such restrictions with your spouse! Talk about paving the road for marriage counseling! So then, why is it, that I find this type of attitude toward God, my Father, Creator, Redeemer, etc., okay? It so is NOT. I don’t knock the idea of setting up a prayer time in the day. In fact, I encourage it. Routine helps. But I want to point out that following the routine is not enough. Talk to Him at whatever time of the day you have set aside, but don’t stop at that. If He is to truly be your #1, then carry on a monologue throughout the day. That’s what you would do with a best friend, so why should it be any different with God?
And on that same note, if we never treat God like a real friend, then how can we truly expect results from our petitions? We aren’t showing true dedication or perseverance if we can’t even establish a solid relationship with God. It’s no wonder that we are not seeing answers and experiencing all the blessings available to us! God can’t give us all He wants to give us if we don’t jump in entirely and make ourselves available to receive all He has for us. Please don’t misunderstand my intentions of that statement. I’m not drawing the conclusion that perseverance in your spiritual walk equals a life filled with daisies, roses, and candy coated rainbows. But you WILL have found your center. You will see life with a clarity you never thought you could. And the difficult times in life, though still hard, become SO much more bearable when you know who you are living for, and what you are living for.
Genesis 32:26
Bible commentary:
“God encourages persistence in all areas of our lives, including the spiritual. Where in your spiritual life do you need more persistence? Strong character develops as you struggle through tough conditions.”
Persistence. It takes SUCH dedication. We are a people (lets give a big hand to the society we live in) that find ourselves easily bored and quickly uninterested in what lay before us. It is just too easy to move on to the next thing, with so many other options out there. Consistency and routine are virtues many of us just don’t have the patience for. Mind you I said “many”, not all, of us. To remain consistent requires commitment and endurance. Rewarding work results if we buckle down.
The question was asked where our lives might require more persistence. It’s a great question all of us should reflect on. I’m sure I have plenty of areas that I could act a bit more dedicated. With regard to my spiritual walk, I need more diligence in my prayer life and personal relationship with Christ. This is something that I don’t feel I will ever be satisfied with where I am at, no matter how solid I become. I am learning to avoid the mentality that I feel all too many of us take about prayer and talking with God. And that is the belief that if we get in our x amount of minutes of prayer, and x amount of minutes of communication with God, we can pat ourselves on the back and go about the day-to-day of life. You know, check that ‘talking with God’ thing off the day’s To Do List. I’m guilty, 100%, of this logic.
But then I started to reflect on the term personal relationship. And I started thinking about other relationships in my life. When have I ever “checked” a friend or family member off the list? When have I allotted only x amount of minutes and not one second longer? When have I set up one specific time in the day to talk with them, and then only be available at that time? I mean REALLY. How can you have a REAL relationship with all those parameters? For you Marrieds out there, imagine trying to set such restrictions with your spouse! Talk about paving the road for marriage counseling! So then, why is it, that I find this type of attitude toward God, my Father, Creator, Redeemer, etc., okay? It so is NOT. I don’t knock the idea of setting up a prayer time in the day. In fact, I encourage it. Routine helps. But I want to point out that following the routine is not enough. Talk to Him at whatever time of the day you have set aside, but don’t stop at that. If He is to truly be your #1, then carry on a monologue throughout the day. That’s what you would do with a best friend, so why should it be any different with God?
And on that same note, if we never treat God like a real friend, then how can we truly expect results from our petitions? We aren’t showing true dedication or perseverance if we can’t even establish a solid relationship with God. It’s no wonder that we are not seeing answers and experiencing all the blessings available to us! God can’t give us all He wants to give us if we don’t jump in entirely and make ourselves available to receive all He has for us. Please don’t misunderstand my intentions of that statement. I’m not drawing the conclusion that perseverance in your spiritual walk equals a life filled with daisies, roses, and candy coated rainbows. But you WILL have found your center. You will see life with a clarity you never thought you could. And the difficult times in life, though still hard, become SO much more bearable when you know who you are living for, and what you are living for.
Monday, June 16, 2008
Growing Pains
“’Woe to me!’ I cried. ‘I am ruined! For I am a man of unclean lips, and I live among a people of unclean lips, and my eyes have seen the King, the Lord Almighty.’
Then one of the seraphs flew to me with a live coal in his hand, which he had taken with tongs from the altar. With it he touched my mouth and said, ‘See, this has touched your lips; your guilt is taken away and your sin atoned for.’
Then I heard the voice of the Lord saying, ‘Whom shall I send? And who will go for us?’ And I said, ‘Here am I. Send me!’”
Isaiah 6:5-8
Life Application (NIV Version) Bible Commentary on this:
“Before we accept God’s call to speak for Him to those around us, we must be cleansed as Isaiah was, confessing our sins and submitting to God’s control. Letting God purify us may be painful, but we must be purified so that we can truly represent God, who is pure and holy.”
Pretty good words. Key words that jump out at me are accept, cleansed, confess, submit, letting God. If we truly desire to be used by God, it takes recognition and action on our part.
I will be the first to fully AGREE that being molded into the man/woman of God that our Lord desires to see us become is not an easy, or pain-free, process. And depending on what age one finally throws their hands up and declares “Ok ok God! I get it. I can’t do it. Not my way. YOURS.” sets the bar for how much cleansing/damage control they will need from God for the matters they have acted on without God thus far in life. That declaration is the “foot in the door”. Then the “fun” begins. The cleansing/purification process. We humans loooove this. You know, the whole pulling old skeletons out of the closet, be it restoring a broken relationship, forgiving past hurts, etc. etc. We all have our secrets. And letting them out is particularly hard, but SO freeing once given to God. It’s painful in some respects, but a good painful.
What do I mean by “good painful”? Think of working out. The first few minutes are a breeze. Oh you might start to perspire a bit, but you’re feeling good. You got this thing handled. Then the minutes tick on. That perspiring turns into sweating, and breathing is getting a little labored. Not to mention, you can start to really feel each heart beat in your chest AND your muscles are starting to scream at you a bit. It’s not so comfortable anymore. But you don’t give up. And after you might feel a little weak and sore, but it is a satisfying weak/soreness. The next day is the best. It’s the oh-it-hurts-to-move-my-legs-arms-neck-or-any-body-limb-for-that-matter feeling that satisfies. It proves you got in a GREAT workout the day before, and you know your body will love you for pushing it to the point of that “good hurt.” AND if you keep it up, you get the rewarding results of big muscles (boys), and a toned up bods (girls). Who’s with me on that??
Apply that same logic to your growth as a man or woman of God. Getting to that “good hurt” is required in order to avoid becoming stagnant in your spiritual walk. Rewards are so much more satisfying when they require our blood, sweat, and tears. Not sure, why, but truth nonetheless. In fact, I will go as far to say that most anything (if not all) worthwhile in this life requires sacrifice from us.
I don’t know about you, but I’m willing to go through a little pain if that is what the purification process requires to make me holy, pleasing, and able to be of service, for my Father’s will.
Then one of the seraphs flew to me with a live coal in his hand, which he had taken with tongs from the altar. With it he touched my mouth and said, ‘See, this has touched your lips; your guilt is taken away and your sin atoned for.’
Then I heard the voice of the Lord saying, ‘Whom shall I send? And who will go for us?’ And I said, ‘Here am I. Send me!’”
Isaiah 6:5-8
Life Application (NIV Version) Bible Commentary on this:
“Before we accept God’s call to speak for Him to those around us, we must be cleansed as Isaiah was, confessing our sins and submitting to God’s control. Letting God purify us may be painful, but we must be purified so that we can truly represent God, who is pure and holy.”
Pretty good words. Key words that jump out at me are accept, cleansed, confess, submit, letting God. If we truly desire to be used by God, it takes recognition and action on our part.
I will be the first to fully AGREE that being molded into the man/woman of God that our Lord desires to see us become is not an easy, or pain-free, process. And depending on what age one finally throws their hands up and declares “Ok ok God! I get it. I can’t do it. Not my way. YOURS.” sets the bar for how much cleansing/damage control they will need from God for the matters they have acted on without God thus far in life. That declaration is the “foot in the door”. Then the “fun” begins. The cleansing/purification process. We humans loooove this. You know, the whole pulling old skeletons out of the closet, be it restoring a broken relationship, forgiving past hurts, etc. etc. We all have our secrets. And letting them out is particularly hard, but SO freeing once given to God. It’s painful in some respects, but a good painful.
What do I mean by “good painful”? Think of working out. The first few minutes are a breeze. Oh you might start to perspire a bit, but you’re feeling good. You got this thing handled. Then the minutes tick on. That perspiring turns into sweating, and breathing is getting a little labored. Not to mention, you can start to really feel each heart beat in your chest AND your muscles are starting to scream at you a bit. It’s not so comfortable anymore. But you don’t give up. And after you might feel a little weak and sore, but it is a satisfying weak/soreness. The next day is the best. It’s the oh-it-hurts-to-move-my-legs-arms-neck-or-any-body-limb-for-that-matter feeling that satisfies. It proves you got in a GREAT workout the day before, and you know your body will love you for pushing it to the point of that “good hurt.” AND if you keep it up, you get the rewarding results of big muscles (boys), and a toned up bods (girls). Who’s with me on that??
Apply that same logic to your growth as a man or woman of God. Getting to that “good hurt” is required in order to avoid becoming stagnant in your spiritual walk. Rewards are so much more satisfying when they require our blood, sweat, and tears. Not sure, why, but truth nonetheless. In fact, I will go as far to say that most anything (if not all) worthwhile in this life requires sacrifice from us.
I don’t know about you, but I’m willing to go through a little pain if that is what the purification process requires to make me holy, pleasing, and able to be of service, for my Father’s will.
Oh Jennifer Knapp.
Not sure who's with me on this, BUT when I am going through hard points in life, I like to relate my life to lyrics of music I have. I find an artist/song and listen to it over and over again. November 07 was probably one of the most pivotal times in my life. This song spoke to me then, and still speaks to me now. In fact the entire Kansas album speaks to me.
His Grace is Sufficient for Me
I've exhausted every possible solution
I've tried every game there is to play
In this search for Christ-like perfection
I'm convinced I've only left my God ashamed
I cry, I wonder can He hear my despair
Afraid to lift my hands, afraid He doesn't care
And if He answers and I fall again
Can I still be His daughter
Can I still depend on Him
When I'm down I search every mistake
I'm looking for new regrets
Sometimes I forget, I forget
That His grace is sufficient for me
That it's deeper and wider than I can conceive
His grace is sufficient for me
My convictions seem to fade with desperation
My hope declines with each and every tear
My sin an anchor and this grace just an illusion
The gavel's heavy and justice is near
Up comes the light and finds the stains on my hands
Up comes my pride, I hideI know He won't understand
Cause it's deeper than deep and it's wider than wide
Why did I ever doubt, now I'm dying inside
His grace is sufficient for me
His grace, His grace is sufficient
His Grace is Sufficient for Me
I've exhausted every possible solution
I've tried every game there is to play
In this search for Christ-like perfection
I'm convinced I've only left my God ashamed
I cry, I wonder can He hear my despair
Afraid to lift my hands, afraid He doesn't care
And if He answers and I fall again
Can I still be His daughter
Can I still depend on Him
When I'm down I search every mistake
I'm looking for new regrets
Sometimes I forget, I forget
That His grace is sufficient for me
That it's deeper and wider than I can conceive
His grace is sufficient for me
My convictions seem to fade with desperation
My hope declines with each and every tear
My sin an anchor and this grace just an illusion
The gavel's heavy and justice is near
Up comes the light and finds the stains on my hands
Up comes my pride, I hideI know He won't understand
Cause it's deeper than deep and it's wider than wide
Why did I ever doubt, now I'm dying inside
His grace is sufficient for me
His grace, His grace is sufficient
Sunday, June 15, 2008
That marriage thing...
Marriage has been on the brain lately. This little train of thought was actually spurred earlier this week, as I burned some calories working out on my beloved Life Fitness machine, zoning out to my Ipod. Jem's Falling For You song came on. The topic then came full circle today when the marriage topic was brought up in some Bible reading I did later this afternoon.
The stanza from the Jem song that caught my attention was as follows:
It's true I've become a skeptic
How many couples really love
Just wish I had a crystal ball
To show me, if it's worth it all
It was that second line that got me thinking. I mean really...how many couples do love like they should? Webster defines love many ways, most involving words that describe emotions and feelings. All true, but it is a different aspect of love that I think is the glue which holds "marriage love" together. Devotion. This was a synonym found in the dictionary for love. It portrays the 'commitment' characteristic of love, which I feel can be quickly overlooked in our society that teaches immediate gratification, and always needing the next newer, and better version of the stuff we have.
I, like 99.97% of single Christian females around my age, want to get married. MOST DEFINITELY. And though being single has its lonely moments, and all around not-fun times, I have surprised myself at how okay I am with it all of a sudden. Now don't take that comment the wrong way. My desire for marriage has not dwindled, I have just been given a peace for where I am to be for this day. More so because I have been viewing marriage differently. The whole "The grass is always greener on the other side" saying comes to mind. The one blessing I can truly appreciate about being single at my "old" age, is the ability to observe and talk with married family and friends. Both newlyweds all the way up to the "Baby Boomer" generation. And I am THANKFUL. I am learning from observation, and storing up mental notes. I am surprised at how many Marrieds (*Ahem, thank you KRISSY for such a great term) exist that put on a great display of living out the perfect marriage. Showing the outside observer that they are "perfectly" in love and enamored with each other. But to see the "behind closed doors"...its...well...'eye opening' to say the least. Bitter sweet. Bitter because I am discouraged at how many unhappy marriages exist and find myself letting doubt about my own future creep in. Sweet because I have not jumped into anything just to have a husband, or someone to wake up to each morning.
But I don't want to imply that I think marriage sucks and no one is ever happy. There are two sides to every story. And Lord knows the other side DOES exist. I was re-encouraged of that fact when reading Acts 18. It was here that Priscilla and Aquila are mentioned. The commentary provided in my Bible about this married couple is THE type of marriage I am holding out for. See below for a couple excerpts I selected:
-->"Some couples know how to make the most of life. They complement each other, capitalize on each other's strengths, and form an effective team. Their united efforts affect those around them. Aquila and Priscilla were such a a couple. They are never mentioned separately in the Bible. In marriage and ministry, they operated as one. "
-->"...they went on using their home as a warm place for training and worship...In an age when the focus is mostly on what happnes between husband and wife, Aquila and Priscilla are an example of what can happen through husband and wife."
I know God can use me in my singleness, and being single I can do things that I might not have the opportunity to do while also juggling the responsibilities of marriage. But Priscilla and Aquila's story encouraged me that God can use married couples devoted to Him as well! (Obvious statement, I know.) I want my cake and I want to eat it too when it comes to this revelation. Call me a dreamer, but I WANT to be used for great things right now, and different, but equally great things when I finally get married.
I want to be one of the success stories, and I am willing to wait for it.
The stanza from the Jem song that caught my attention was as follows:
It's true I've become a skeptic
How many couples really love
Just wish I had a crystal ball
To show me, if it's worth it all
It was that second line that got me thinking. I mean really...how many couples do love like they should? Webster defines love many ways, most involving words that describe emotions and feelings. All true, but it is a different aspect of love that I think is the glue which holds "marriage love" together. Devotion. This was a synonym found in the dictionary for love. It portrays the 'commitment' characteristic of love, which I feel can be quickly overlooked in our society that teaches immediate gratification, and always needing the next newer, and better version of the stuff we have.
I, like 99.97% of single Christian females around my age, want to get married. MOST DEFINITELY. And though being single has its lonely moments, and all around not-fun times, I have surprised myself at how okay I am with it all of a sudden. Now don't take that comment the wrong way. My desire for marriage has not dwindled, I have just been given a peace for where I am to be for this day. More so because I have been viewing marriage differently. The whole "The grass is always greener on the other side" saying comes to mind. The one blessing I can truly appreciate about being single at my "old" age, is the ability to observe and talk with married family and friends. Both newlyweds all the way up to the "Baby Boomer" generation. And I am THANKFUL. I am learning from observation, and storing up mental notes. I am surprised at how many Marrieds (*Ahem, thank you KRISSY for such a great term) exist that put on a great display of living out the perfect marriage. Showing the outside observer that they are "perfectly" in love and enamored with each other. But to see the "behind closed doors"...its...well...'eye opening' to say the least. Bitter sweet. Bitter because I am discouraged at how many unhappy marriages exist and find myself letting doubt about my own future creep in. Sweet because I have not jumped into anything just to have a husband, or someone to wake up to each morning.
But I don't want to imply that I think marriage sucks and no one is ever happy. There are two sides to every story. And Lord knows the other side DOES exist. I was re-encouraged of that fact when reading Acts 18. It was here that Priscilla and Aquila are mentioned. The commentary provided in my Bible about this married couple is THE type of marriage I am holding out for. See below for a couple excerpts I selected:
-->"Some couples know how to make the most of life. They complement each other, capitalize on each other's strengths, and form an effective team. Their united efforts affect those around them. Aquila and Priscilla were such a a couple. They are never mentioned separately in the Bible. In marriage and ministry, they operated as one. "
-->"...they went on using their home as a warm place for training and worship...In an age when the focus is mostly on what happnes between husband and wife, Aquila and Priscilla are an example of what can happen through husband and wife."
I know God can use me in my singleness, and being single I can do things that I might not have the opportunity to do while also juggling the responsibilities of marriage. But Priscilla and Aquila's story encouraged me that God can use married couples devoted to Him as well! (Obvious statement, I know.) I want my cake and I want to eat it too when it comes to this revelation. Call me a dreamer, but I WANT to be used for great things right now, and different, but equally great things when I finally get married.
I want to be one of the success stories, and I am willing to wait for it.
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