Loves Author

4/30/2020

1 Corinthians 13:4 “Love suffereth long, and is kind.”

Today, Chambers is concentrating on love, and of course the author and source of that most precious gift, God.

Today, we are seeing acts of love in so many different ways. Essential workers are on the front lines of a global pandemic. Some are medical personnel and hospital staff caring for the people with this mysterious and brutal virus; some are bankers processing PPP loans and keeping our cash flow available; some are grocery workers allowing people to pick up needed food and necessities; some are factory workers or truck drivers keeping the supply chains flowing; some are first responders walking into all different kinds of situations to help keep us safe; some are teachers having to be even more creative as they try to teach their students virtually; and some are ministers keeping their church families spiritually fed and connected though technology. They all need us to stay home as much as possible, and they need our continued prayers.

There are also people who are organizing food distribution by coordinating companies, farmers, and volunteers to feed those families who have lost their income. There are people who are organizing nightly ovations for the people on the front lines. There are those who arrange socially distant parades to celebrate a child’s birthday or a cancer patient’s return home from the hospital. There are people doing all kinds of loving acts for one another. The best usually comes out of us at the worst of times, and this period of Covid-19 is no different.

Chambers writes, “The characteristic of love is spontaneity…The evidence of our love for Him is the absolute spontaneity of our love, it comes naturally.” Isn’t it true that the best, most memorable acts of love are spontaneous ones, done without a thought other than helping or bringing joy to another person? Just this past week, my family has experienced two acts of love through two special deliveries. Sunday, upon learning of my husband being required to return to work after six weeks of telecommuting, very dear friends of ours dropped off two of their three precious N95 masks, as well as a yummy homemade bread. Love. Mid-week, other dear friends dropped off a gift for me. Knowing I suffer from anxiety, they wanted to show their love by giving me a powerful book to read, and an even more powerful letter of testimony about the certainty of God’s provision and care during dark times. Love.

Yes, love is all around us if we just open our eyes up enough to see it. These words by Chambers are so profound today, “The life of God manifests itself in this spontaneous way because the springs of love are in the Holy Ghost.”

Uncertainty

4/29/2020

1 John 3:2 “It doth not yet appear what we shall be.”

Chambers’ study today is about uncertainty. He says, “The nature of spiritual life is that we are certain in our uncertainty.” I am the kind of person who likes to know what is coming; if you have read my other blogs, you have probably gathered that already. I do not like suspenseful movies, or being surprised or scared. I like order and plans, but it is not always realistic in life; it is certainly not realistic in a spiritual walk. God’s plan for my life has been a continual unfolding, like an old-timey roadmap, for once it is unfolded the first time, you can never really fold back perfectly again. God has taught me to love the perfectly imperfect things in my life, and to trust Him on the journey.

I love this quote by Chambers: “Certainty is the mark of the common-sense life: gracious uncertainty is the mark of the spiritual life.” Gracious uncertainty is such a lovely combination. In this time of mass fear and trepidation, being gracious is of utmost importance, especially in our spiritual lives. To trust God completely, and share that trust with others, is to act with gracious uncertainty. We must have complete confidence that God is in control, even when we do not understand. Our job is to keep the faith, love and disciple others, and learn the lessons God is teaching us during this period. It does not line up with a common-sense life, but it does reflect the truth of our loving Savior’s charge to believers and living in obedience to Him.

The last part of Chambers’ study today, “Leave the whole thing to Him (Jesus), it is gloriously uncertain how He will come in, but He will come. Remain loyal to Him.”

Let Go

4/28/2020

Jeremiah 45:5 “Thy life will I give thee for prey in all places whither thou goest.”

Chambers asks, “Are you prepared to abandon entirely and let go?” That is quiet an impactful question. Am I ready to entirely abandon to God and His will? Am I prepared to let go?

I am a person who tries to control my environment pretty rigidly; it is a part of having OCD and a preservative mind. These tend to inhibit my ability to “let go” or “abandon” to anything that makes me feel uncomfortable. So, is totally giving up control to God possible for me? Yes it is, but it is only through God’s grace and a willingness to trust Him with everything, for everything, and in everything. There is no greater time for trust than now in this time of Covid-19. We are all in a common battle, but we all also have a common Savior who can guide us and give us strength, if only we can just truly let go.  

What's Important

4/27/2020

Jeremiah 45:5 “Seekest thou great things for thyself?”

Am I self-seeking? Do I spend my energy praying for things? Are my expectations so high that, if not answered, I become restless or sensitive in my relationship with God? Chambers says, “There is nothing easier than getting into a right relationship with God except when it is not God Whom you want but only what He gives.”

When I was younger, I did not understand why life seemed so much easier for others. My husband and I faithfully attended church and were involved in ministry, yet we struggled in so many areas. He was diagnosed with cancer shortly after our first move away from our families, he lost his job shortly after his diagnosis, our son (at the age of five) had to have surgery, and we moved six times in ten years. All this while others seemed to thrive. We were faithful, yet so very weary. I was known, at that time, to grumble and ask “why” a lot. I wanted…no, craved blessings. Unfortunately, the wearier I became, the weaker my faith became as well. I never stopped believing in God, but I stopped asking for help. I felt as if my prayers for my family were bouncing off a large celestial ceiling. I was wrong, of course, but I was also in my infancy as a believer.

After our sixth move, life started to get a bit easier, but we never did reach the level of those around us. We were, unfortunately, not looking very closely at the reality of the situation. Sure, others had better jobs, nicer houses, newer cars, tropical vacations, and more stuff, but we had each other in a way (as it turns out that) that many around us did not. Through all of our trials, God gave us the biggest blessing of all, which was refining us and drawing us closer to Him. He gave us each other to journey through life with. He also blessed us with a wonderful son whom we cherish. He gave us a warm home, and food to eat; we had a loving church family and friends. These are the true blessings in life, none of those other trappings really matter at all.

We have experienced other times of deep trial and pain, but God has always been faithful, and He always will be. We both continue to mature in our faith, and put our relationship with God above all.

Character

4/26/2020

Genesis 22:2 “Take now thy son…and offer him there for a burnt offering upon one of the mountains which I will tell thee of.”

Right now, everyone is being tested. Whether you have been home for weeks on end, telecommuting, working from home AND trying to teach your children, furloughed from your job, or you are one of the essential workers who have been on the front lines of care for everyone, this definitely has not been an easy time for our world.

Chambers writes, “Character determines how man interprets God’s will.” Such is a powerful and interesting statement, and so true. Tomorrow, it gets more complicated for my family, as my husband heads back to his place of employment after telecommuting for the past six weeks. He is high risk, so it is quite a stressful thing for all of us. Even though he has choices, his decision is to return. Going back is what he feels led to do, and that certainly shows his character and his faith. Chambers also says, “God will take us through an ordeal which will bring us out into a better knowledge of Himself.” This must be a time of totally trusting in our Lord for all things. Sacrifice is the most prominent word of this period of time, but it is something we can do in full faith as Abraham did, even if we do not understand the why.

A man’s heart plans his way, but the LORD directs his steps.” Proverbs 16:9

Seasons

4/25/2020

2 Timothy 4:2 “Be instant in season, out of season.”

Oh joy, we finally had a proper spring day in our area today! The sky was clear and blue, and the weather a perfect 68 degrees. We worked out in the garden, and took some time to kick back on the front porch. It felt great, almost normal, and boy was it good for the soul!

Right now, during this time of pandemic, it is vitally important to do things that keep body, mind, and soul healthy. Life is very topsy-turvy and uncertain. Many of us are feeling closed in and sad, and that’s okay. We are missing our family, friends, and co-workers. I was speaking to my brother about how nice it would be to go to Lowe’s and just look around, but that is not something any of us can do right now.  For me, shopping is like going out into a minefield, and it is exhausting. Yes, Coivd-19 has changed the way we live, work, worship, celebrate, and connect; it has changed everything.

It is truly a difficult season of life for all of us. But what would God have us do? The verse today gives us direction, like so many verses do. “Preach the word; be prepared in season an out of season; correct, rebuke, and encourage—with great patience and careful instruction.” [2 Timothy 4:2] We are still to do the work of God in any way we can during this season, just like any other. Chambers says, “If we only do what we feel inclined to do, some of us would do nothing forever and ever… The proof that we are rightly related to God is that we do our best whether we feel inspired or not.” This has never been truer than now, during this time of weariness and uncertainly. We all need to share the Word of God. Even when we are not having a mountaintop experience, God can and will use us right where we are if we are faithful and obedient to His will. This could certainly be a time of revival in our world. How will I make a difference? Am I ready in or out of season?

Wanton

4/24/2020

Luke 10:20 “Notwithstanding in this rejoice not, that the spirits are subject unto you.”

Am I a spiritual elitist or dictator? Do I bend with the current flow of religion? Am I living by God’s standards, or by the dogma and legalism of any particular denomination? As a worker for Christ, am I concerned about the world’s view of faith, or the unchanging truths of the Bible? Do I live in submission to God’s will? Am I living a life that reveals His character to others? Is the sovereignty of God and my relationship with Him the single most important thing in my life? These questions came to me as I was reading Chambers lesson today. He speaks of “spiritual wantoning” or, “taking the pattern and print of the religious age we live in, making eyes at spiritual success.” Of this we all must be watchful. I am so fond and thankful for this learned man’s writing voice and how inspired it is.

Recently, my Pastor did a series on the authority of the Bible, and the absolute truth therein. He spoke of looking at the Bible as the unchanging, infallible, and inspired word of God. Everything therein is intentionally and eternally constant, no matter what any current generation may say. This is often a difficult idea for people to support if the word of God does not coincide with a current trend or ideal. My prayer is not to give into spiritual wantoning.

So, what is our role in staying the course and standing firm? We are certainly to be resolved and steadfast, but in grace, love, and humility; for that is how our Savior lived, and He is our example. We are to read God’s word, and learn the language within; this way we can do what God has called us to do. Chambers says, “Our work begins where God’s grace has laid the foundation; we are not to save souls, but to disciple them… God brings us to a standard of life by His grace, and we are responsible for reproducing that standard in others.” By God’s grace we can stand firm in faith.

Laborer

4/23/2020

1 Corinthians 3:9 “Labourers together with God.”

The Covid-19 pandemic has brought out the best in people. Along with all the tragedy and sadness that you see on the news, there are always stories of kindness and people reaching out to strangers in love. This evening, the news reported on several people who sent a veteran’s family some money for food. After waiting for hours in line at a food bank, he was unable to get anything to feed his family of six. Like many people in this devastated economy, he had never had to go to a food bank before. After being helped, the joy and relief on his face was overwhelming. Such goodness in the world is happening every day. People are putting their energy into helping others in any way they can, and it is a beautiful thing to see.

This is certainly a time for us to do God’s work. Chambers says, “We have no right to judge where we should be put, or to have preconceived notions as to what God is fitting us for. God engineers everything; wherever He puts us our one great aim is to pour out a wholehearted devotion to Him in that particular work.” I pray that this time of uncertainly draws us all nearer to God and His will for our lives and His world. How will I be counted?

“Then the King will say to those on his right, ‘Come, you who are blessed by my Father; you’re your inheritance, the kingdom prepared for you since the creation on the world. For I was hungry and you gave me something to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you invited me in, I needed clothes and you clothed me, I was sick and you  looked after me, I was in prison and you came to visit me.’ Then the righteous will answer him, ‘Lord when did we see you hungry and feed you, or thirsty and give you something to drink? When did we see you a stranger and invite you in, or need clothes and clothe you? When did we see you sick or in prison and go visit you?’ The King will reply, ‘Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did it for Me.’” Matthew 25:34-39

A little worship music.

Build My Life – Pat Barrett

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Z32HiCoFzlU

The Lesson

4/22/2020

2 Corinthians 3:18 “We all, with open face beholding…the glory of the Lord.”

When my husband was a young man, he was horribly let down by the leaders of his church. I will not go into all of the details here; suffice it to say that they did not practice what they preached. This shook his foundations, and sent into a time of pulling away from God. Thankfully, he came back into the fold of believers, and God taught him a valuable lesson in the process. He has shared this lesson with all the people he has ministered to. He always says, “Keep your eyes focused on God, because people will fail you and let you down.” This is so very true, and most of us of experience it in one way or another. He would go on to say, “I will even let you down, but God never will.” This is the deepest and most profound truth of all.  Chambers says, “We must build our faith, not on the fading light, but on the Light that never fails.” Being shaken by disappointment in church leadership or fellow believers is going to happen. We will all disappoint someone at some point, for we are all just ultimately fading lights. God’s light, however, is majestic and glorious; it will lead us through any dark night of the soul. We are never alone.

You're Not Alone - Owl City

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DavJ9UKS2ps

Be Not Afraid

4/21/2020

John 14:9 “Have I been so long with you, and yet hast thou not known Me, Philip?”

John 14 is a very powerful chapter of scripture, and I would recommend reading the full text. Jesus is speaking with His disciples about what is to come. It starts out with, “Do not let your hearts be troubled.” V.1 He then speaks of preparing a place for them, and that they will know the way. Thomas asks how this is possible, and Jesus says, “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to my Father except through Me.” V.6 Then Jesus speaks of an advocate, a Spirit of Truth that will be with them forever. “On that day you will realize that I am in my Father, and you are in Me, and I am in you.” V.20 He speaks of the Holy Trinity, a difficult concept for many even now. I can only imagine how Jesus’ disciples were trying to process all that was being told to them. Jesus goes on, “But the Advocate, The Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in My name, will teach you all things and will remind you of everything I have said to you.” V.26

This all happens right as Jesus is preparing to be arrested and sacrificed. His disciples still did not understand. They would see Jesus put to death, fall into grief and fear, and then see Him rise again. Then, at Pentecost, the Holy Spirit would come upon them. It would all be as Jesus had told them.

In these dark days, we are also afraid and confused; nothing seems to make any sense, and our lives have been turned upside-down. Yet just like the disciples, we can believe and hold fast to the Advocate of Truth. We can pray to our Savior and ask for wisdom, strength, and peace.  We can ask for an indwelling of the Holy Spirit so that others can see Jesus in us. We can, in all the mayhem, keep a simple and abiding faith in our loving and Heavenly Father. Chambers says, “God never guides presently, but always now. Realize that the Lord is here now, and the emancipation is immediate.

“Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.” V.27

Be Not Afraid -  John Michael Talbot

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wQr4udSiEew

All Things

4/20/2020

2 Corinthians 1:20 “For all the promises of God in Him are yea, and in Him Amen.”

All the promises of God come through Christ. We need to turn to Him, trusting in His strength and power for all things and in all things. Chambers says, “When it is a question of God’s Almighty Spirit, never say ‘I can’t.’ Never let the limitation of natural ability come in. If we have received the Holy Spirit, God expects the work of the Holy Spirit to be manifested in us.”

Right now, a lot of us may be feeling weak and overwhelmed; I know I am. Life is nothing like it was a few short months ago. The one constant that we can all rely on is that Jesus is alive! We can fully trust in Him, and be honest with Him about how we are feeling. During this uncertain time, He may lead us to act and reach out in ways we never thought we could, but the wonderful thing is that the Holy Spirit goes with us. We do not need to do anything in our own strength. Jesus will light our path and show us the way.

“I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” Philippians 4:13

Undercurrent

4/19/2020

1 Kings 2:28 “For Joab had turned after Adonijah, though he turned not after Absalom.”

We are all concentrating on safety at this moment in time. The world is collectively experiencing a trial of epic proportions, were the common enemy is microscopic and unrelenting. Everyone is in crisis mode, and it shows by the empty schools and streets, by gloves and masks, by not being able to protect the ones we love. Travel and trade have stopped, and our economy is at the tipping point of collapse. This is certainly a time of crisis.

So, how will we be counted? As believers, will we be strong and faithful or found wanting? Will we rest in the comfort of our God, and find our strength in Him? Will we be steadfast in our obedience, and loyal until the end? Will we grow in our relationship with God, and reach out in hope and love to others? Chambers says, “We are apt to say—‘It is not in the least likely that having been through the supreme crisis, I shall turn now to the things of the world.’ Do not forecast where the temptation will come, it is the least likely thing that is in peril. You have remained true to God under great and intense trials, now beware of the undercurrent.”

We must, dear ones, stay vigilant in study and prayer. Do not be pulled down by the undercurrent of fear and despair, but instead rise up. Our God is almighty and eternal, and He has already conquered the world.

In this time of uncertainly, there is one truth that is steadfast and eternal: the love and saving grace of Jesus. Turn to Him, repent of your sins, and He will give you mercy and peace. You are loved!

For such a time as this.

2 Chronicles 7:14 “If My people, who are called by My name, will humble themselves and pray and seek My face and turn from their wicked ways, then will I hear from heaven and will forgive their sins and will heal their land

.

May God have mercy on us all

Ready

4/18/2020

Exodus 3:4 “God called unto him…And he said, Here am I.”

Am I listening? Am I waiting? Am I open? Am I ready? Chambers says, “Readiness for God means that we are ready to do the tiniest little thing or great big thing, it makes no difference.” Do I only feel useful when I am doing the big thing, or do I get as much joy and blessing from the little things?

The verse today is taken from the story of Moses and the burning bush. Moses had entered Holy Ground on Mount Horeb, and God spoke to him about hearing the cries of His people. Can you even imagine what this must have been like, hearing the voice of God? I would think that every nerve in Moses’ body was crackling. Just the thought of it makes my heart race. Is Moses ready for such an encounter? Would I be? God has a big job for Moses to do: He tells Moses to go to Pharaoh and bring His people out of Egypt. Moses does not feel worthy of such a task, but God says to him, “I will be with you.” He had a monumental mission ahead of him, but despite his fear, he went forth with God. Moses was the mere vessel though which God worked.

Like in the days of Moses, we are currently experiencing a horrible plague upon our earth. It has forced us to take a global pause, but what are we doing with it? Are we spiritually preparing ourselves, or are we set and ready for the call of God in our lives? Am I ready to be a vessel for God? Will I say, “Here I am” when God calls?

Satan can use this time to break us down, but if we are trusting in God, He will continue to build us up and help us stay strong. Stay alert dear ones, and be ready.

Transaction

4/17/2020

John 21:7 “Now when Simon Peter heard that it was the Lord, he girt his fisher’s coat unto him…and did cast himself into the sea.”

Emotion and faith are a tricky combination. I am emotional about my faith, but should I let my emotion rule it? I cry easily when I pray, worship, or speak of the love and sacrifice of Jesus, but how often do I let my emotion interfere with my walk? How often do the emotions of sadness, fear, depression, or even happiness affect my faith? Honestly, this probably happens too often. I tend to be a hyperemotional person, and I am sadly double minded sometimes. Satan knows this about me and, if I am not vigilant, he will pull on every string and press every button to keep me ineffective for God. Lord forgive my weakness.

Years ago, my family attended a large Pentecostal church, and I loved it. The people there were so kind and had such passionate faith. They worshiped with all of themselves, and it was so beautiful. This denomination also speaks in tongues, and that was something unfamiliar to me. They believe it is a gift of the Spirit and a deeper way to pray. They also would slay people in the Spirit, which is when you are prayed over and, for lack of a better description, pass out. I will admit that I was fascinated by these occurrences, as my thirst for a deeper faith was very strong. 

I would pray for clarity about these gifts and ask God to keep my spirit open. I prayed, and I prayed. During the service I would listen to others speak in tongues and wait for interpretation, but it never came. I would also answer the alter call and have people pray over me, tears streaming down my face and wait to be slain, but I never was. I would get emotional about what I felt was a lack of faith on my part. I felt unworthy and too young in my faith journey. Yes, Satan can certainly use our feelings against us.

In the end, we moved from the area and had to leave our church family. Although neither gift of the Spirit happened to me, during our time with this wonderful body of believers, my God became much bigger. The box I had kept Him in had not just been opened, but torn asunder. This did not come out of emotion, but out of a continual seeking out of wisdom, and by keeping my heart open to the Holy Spirit.

Chambers says, “If you allow emotion first, you will never make the transaction. Do not ask God what the transaction is to be, but make it in regard to the thing you do see, either in the shallow or profound place.”

High Hour

4/16/2020

John 12:36 “While ye have light, believe in the light.”

Today Chambers is writing about what he calls the “high hour”, or what we may think of as those spiritual mountaintop experiences. These times are amazing, and make us feel energized and on fire for God. I love my high moments. Unfortunately, the past few days have been low ones, but I must admit I have been swinging wildly since this whole pandemic started. I go from full-out bold faith to anxiety, and I know I am not alone. I also know that Jesus understands, and takes me just as I am. Chambers rightly says, “We have to learn to live in the grey day according to what we saw on the mount.”, or during the “high hour”.

Right now, having stay-at-home orders, it is difficult for us to do a lot for God. It is difficult to stay motivated with so much gloom and doom around us. That is why, even in the grey moments, we have to keep going vertical. We have to seek out God, and trust in Him with all of this uncertainty and confusion. We have to get creative in the way we reach out to others in love. As long as we keep looking up, He will show us the way.

Vigilant

4/15/2020

2 Chronicles 15:17 “But the high places were not taken away out of Israel; nevertheless the heart of Asa was perfect all his days.”

I struggle. I know that I have already shared about my anxiety issues, but I have so many other areas where my obedience to God is not what it should be. I do not take care of my earthly vessel the way He wants me to. I do not always do the right moral or spiritual thing. I am not always loving or kind, but often selfish. I can easily move into procrastination and lose my resolve. I do not always move when the Holy Spirit clearly wants me to. I can be ambivalent in many areas instead of powerfully moving through life with a holy purpose. Yes, I struggle.

All these areas have come into much clearer focus since Covid-19 hit, and I, like all of us, am now forced to stay at home. It is easier to ignore your own issues when you are busy and distracted with life. For me, the stillness has brought a deeper contemplation of who I am, what my purpose is, and who God wants me to be. It has brought me to reflect on how I have lived, and what I need to do moving forward.

Am I taking this time to concentrate on my relationship with my God and seek the lessons He is trying to teach me? Or is fear and dismal monotony ruling the day? Is there a relapse of a weakened spirit? Even though we are on a global break from the busyness of life, we need to stay vigilant in hope and faith. Chambers says, “You no more need a holiday from spiritual concentration then your heart needs a holiday from beating. You cannot have a moral holiday and remain moral, nor can you have a spiritual holiday and remain spiritual. God wants you to be entirely His, and this means you have to watch and keep yourself fit. It takes a tremendous amount of time.”

We have the time. Let us all stay both physically and spiritually healthy. Let us all be grateful for every heartbeat. Help us Lord, to use this time to draw closer to you.  

Yoke

4/14/2020

Matthew 11:29 “Take My yoke upon you, and learn of Me.”

The turmoil we are in is very serious, and it is global. It is difficult to stay positive and strong during this uncertain time, and the isolation doesn’t help. So where do we turn? Do we turn to the news that is covering Covid-19 and nothing else? Do we turn to our leaders who are shifting blame and spinning facts? Do we turn to our family and friends who we miss and feel ripped away from? We are all just grasping at straws anyway, and have no real solutions. It is all so exhausting.  

What I do, and what you can do, is turn to God in His infinite wisdom and guiding strength. Chambers writes, “‘To them that have no might He increases strength.’ …The only way to know the strength of God is to take the yoke of Jesus upon us and learn from Him.” Turn to Jesus in your times of sadness, fear, and weakness. During this time, learn from His Word, pray earnestly, and grow in Him. He is ALWAYS there for you, and He loves you.

Chambers writes, “No power on earth or in hell can conquer the Spirit of God in a human spirit, it is an inner unconquerableness.” Jesus has already conquered the world, and no matter what, we can rest in that truth.

On His Shoulders

4/13/2020

Psalm 55:22 “Cast thy burdens upon the Lord.”

Currently in our world, the burdens in life are numerous: hundreds of thousands of people are sick with an unrelenting virus, loved ones are dying alone, and healthcare workers have become soldiers on the front lines of war with an unseen enemy. They and other essential workers are putting themselves at risk every day; many have lost their jobs or have been furloughed, with no savings to fall back on. Children that relied on school for meals are now without, parents are having to become teachers (often while trying to work from home), and shopping for food and necessities has gone from a pleasure to a source of anxiety. We can no longer move about, even in our own little corners of the worlds, freely. We cannot see our family and friends, shake hands, or give a hug. On top of all of that, it is a time of global stress, uncertainly, and fear. We, all of us, are in the same boat and sailing through a storm.

Even with all of this, we have Someone to turn to for strength and peace. God wants us to cast ALL of our burdens on Him. Chambers speaks today of burdens that God has placed on us. Has God allowed this all to happen for a greater purpose? What does He expect from His children? I would say that the news is full of people that are certainly doing God’s work with tremendous acts of love and selflessness. Chambers writes, “If we undertake work for God and get out of touch with Him, the sense of responsibility will be overwhelming and crushing; but if we roll back on God that which He has put upon us, He takes the sense of responsibility by bringing in the realization of Himself.” During this difficult time, it is critical for us to lean on God and cast our burdens on Him, for in Him will we find our strength. We do not have to bear all of this alone, for He is with us.

Psalm 23

The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want.

He maketh me to lie down in green pastures: he leadeth me beside the still waters.

He restoreth my soul: He leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for His name’s sake.

Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for thou art with me: Thy rod and Thy staff they comfort me.

Thou prepares a table before me in the presence of mine enemies: thou anointest my head with oil; my cup runneth over.

Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life: and I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever.

He Is Risen!

4/12/2020

Romans 6:9-11 “Death hath no dominion over Him…in that He liveth, He liveth unto God. Likewise ye reckon ye also yourselves to be dead indeed unto sin, but alive unto God.”

Jesus is the: King of Kings, Lord of Lords, Messiah, Savior, Son of the Most High, Good Shepherd, Lamb of God, Redeemer, Light of the Word, Lord of All, Bread of Life, Emmanuel, Wonderful Councilor, Prince of Peace

He is risen, He is risen indeed! Jesus overcame the sin of the world. This is the miracle of Easter; Jesus’ resurrection from the dead that brings us savings grace and eternal life. It is a gift that is freely given to every person. All you need to do is yield to God’s call, and accept this most precious of gifts. Chambers says, “The only source of life is the Lord Jesus Christ.” Let us all die to sin and live in Christ. 

This Easter Season, when we are all experiencing such uncertainty and fear, an abiding relationship with Jesus will bring a peace that passes all understanding. He truly is our anchor in the storm.

Glorious Day – Casting Crowns

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VXp6xcY5IqU

The Wait

4/11/2020

Romans 6:5 “For if we have been planted together in the likeness of His death, we shall be also in the likeness of His resurrection.”

The day after Christ’s crucifixion was a time of excruciating waiting and uncertainly. Jesus’ followers were grieving, disoriented, confused, and afraid that they would be arrested as well. They were hidden away, anticipating that something was going to happen, but they didn’t quite know what. Jesus spoke of prophecy being fulfilled in Him, and of His death and resurrection, but how this was to come about they did not know. It was a time of waiting like none they had ever experienced. Saturday was also the Sabbath, so they had to act accordingly and observe the day of rest, and they gathered together in an upper room and anxiously waited. They had no idea of the joy that would come in the morning!

Because of Covid-19, our world is also experiencing a time of uncertainty and anxious waiting. Waiting is often times very difficult. Waiting can involve looking forward to something happening – like a wedding, birth of a baby, a vacation, a visit from someone we love, etc. – or it can involve dread – like a root-canal, surgery, the line at TSA, a visit from someone we love, etc. This time of waiting that we are all experiencing collectively is also not like any we have ever known before. We are grieving, confused, and afraid, just like the disciples were, but we can also experience the same joy that they did. We can rest in the arms of our Risen Lord and find our peace in Him. Jesus conquered sin and death, and He is our anchor in the storm and our hope.

In this time of being still and waiting, let us be powerful in our love and with our prayers.  Let us draw nearer to Jesus. Let us yield to an invasion of the Holy Spirit until, as Chambers says, “He takes charge of everything: my part is to walk in the light and obey all that He reveals.”

While I’m Waiting – John Waller

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3gjXBMC8-oM

No Greater Love

4/10/2020

Romans 6:6 “ Knowing this, that our old man is crucified with Him, that the body of sin might be destroyed, that henceforth we should not serve sin.”

Today is Good Friday, and we – as a nation and a world – are remembering it while social distancing from one another. This day always brings a focus on the suffering and sacrifice of Jesus; the most profound act of love in all of history. I can commemorate this most precious action of my Savior by reading the account in my Bible or watching The Passion of the Christ, but do I honor it always with how I live my life? Do I draw ever-closer to my Lord, asking Him to help me to die to my sin? Or do I keep living my life disconnected to, detached from, or in denial of it? Chambers says, “Haul yourself up, take a time alone with God, make the moral decision and say—‘Lord, identify me with Thy death until I know that sin is dead in me.’ Make the moral decision that sin in you must be put to death. Am I prepared to let the spirit of God search me until I know what the disposition of sin is—the thing that lusts against the Spirit of God in me?” Difficult yes, but nothing compared to the agony that Jesus suffered for each one of us on the cross of Calvary.

“I have been crucified with Christ; it is no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me; and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave Himself for me.” Galatians 2:20

Coming, with a contrite heart, to the foot of the Cross of Christ brings mercy, peace, and everlasting life. His crucifixion was the greatest of all sacrifices and the most precious gift ever given to all people.

 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TUryMnPHhlc

In Christ Alone – Adrienne Liesching and Geoff Moore (Images from The Passion of the Christ)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mBcqria2wmg&list=RDmBcqria2wmg&index=1

Who Am I – Casting Crowns

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Cy4ytwKfjBI

East to West – Casting Crowns

Can You See?

4/9/2020

Mark 16:12 “After that He appeared in another form unto two of them.”

“When once you have seen Jesus, you can never be the same, other things do not appeal as they used to do.” Oswald Chambers

This is as true now as it was when Jesus walked the earth; He changes the core of people. His disciples left everything they knew to follow Him, and people have done the same for centuries after His resurrection. Millions have devoted their lives to preaching the Good News of the Gospel.

Today is Holy Thursday, the day we remember the Last Supper, Jesus’ praying in Gethsemane, the betrayal by Judas, and Jesus’ arrest. Each one of these events played a pivotal role in the crucifixion and resurrection of Our Lord. There is a movie about Jesus life called The Greatest Story Ever Told, and it truly is; through Jesus, we are all given the chance at new life and connection with God.

The images of this day we remember are all so strong. Jesus washing the disciple’s feet and breaking bread with them is our model of servanthood and Holy Communion. Him praying at Gethsemane and crying out to God to “Take this cup from Me” lets us know that we can cry out to God The Father as He did, and that He truly understands the pain and suffering of the human condition. The betrayal by Judas shows us to keep our eyes turned heavenward, lest we let in the evil one, who always wants our destruction. Our Savior allowing Himself to be arrested, knowing what was to be, is a testament to how deeply He loves us.  There is truly no greater love than the love Jesus shows us all.

We all, each and every one of us, need to decide for ourselves if we will follow Jesus and yield to His call. Chambers says, “Jesus must appear to your friend as well as you; no one can see Jesus with your eyes. You cannot bring your friend unless God brings Him.” Jesus is knocking on the door of every soul. This Easter Season, when there is so much worry and fear about the future, will you open the door to His saving grace? Will you confess your sin to Jesus, and ask Him to be Lord of your life? Will we, as believers, call out to God as Jesus did in the garden? Will we serve others? Will we fight the forces of evil with Holy shields and swords? Will we sacrifice for others?  In it all, will our world see Jesus?

The Road

4/8/2020

Luke 24:26 “Ought not Christ to have suffered these things, and to enter into His glory?”

Luke 24: 25-32 is the telling of the Road to Emmaus. After Jesus’ resurrection, He is walking the road with two men who are telling Him the events of the past week. They could not tell it was Jesus because, as the Bible says, “they were kept from recognizing Him.” The men told Him that this was the third day after Jesus’ crucifixion and, although the women reported that the morning brought an empty tomb, they were worried and confused. He began speaking the truth of the prophecy from the days of old that told of His life, death, and resurrection. Jesus then went and broke bread with them, and when their eyes were opened, He disappeared. As Jesus spoke to them on the journey, they later realized that "their hearts where burning within them”. Chambers says, “Our Lord’s Cross is the gateway into His life; His resurrection means that He has power now to convey His life to Me.” This is what He did for the men on that road, and this is what He does for us through His Holy Spirit. Will we walk life's road with Jesus, or try to go it alone? 

In Jesus, there is new life. He is the light in our darkness, and our hope. Scripture is sacred and complete; God leads us and teaches us through His Holy Word. During this Holy week, where there is currently so much fear and uncertainly in our lives, please know that the phrase “Fear Not” is in the Bible 365 times; one time for every day of the year. This is clearly a message that God intended us to understand. So please, dear ones, cast all your fears on Jesus.  

“The LORD is my light and my salvation—whom shall I fear? The LORD is the stronghold of my life—of whom shall I be afraid?” Psalm 27:1

Thy Word

4/7/2020

Mark 9:9 “He charged them that they should tell no man what things they had seen, till the Son of man were risen from the dead.”

This past Christmas, I gave a Bible to a dear friend of mine. We had been talking about God for several months, and sharing our faith journeys. One day, I was telling her about my life verses (Philippians 4:6&7), the ones that get me through hard times, and she mentioned having to pick up a new Bible. I contacted her husband to tell him what she had said, in case he might want to get her one. He asked me to do the honors, and I was so blessed that he did. I searched for one in her favorite color and excitedly wrapped it for her. In it I placed my life verses on a card, and prayed.  When she opened it, she was surprised and touched. I was so humbled and grateful, not only for her graciousness, but her joy. She said that she was now ready for such a gift; beautiful. I thought back to the point in my journey when I felt the same way. I was given a Bible by my then-finance (now husband) as a Valentine’s gift our first year together. The inscription read, “The greatest love story ever told.” Such an act of love, and a true blessing. 

After you give your life to Christ, the truth of God’s Holy Word becomes illuminated by the Holy Spirit. I think this is what Chambers meant when he said, “Our Lord does not hide these things; they are unbearable until we get into a fit condition of spiritual life. There must be communion with His risen life before a particular word can be borne by us.” I know, for myself, the Bible seemed confusing and unclear until I was drawn into a personal relationship with Jesus. I am certainly no theologian, but the truth and power of God’s word challenges me and gives me hope every day. When I open the Bible, I hear exactly what I need to for what is happening in my life. “Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path.” Psalm 119:105

In this time of uncertainly, there is one truth that is steadfast and eternal: the love and saving grace of Jesus. Turn to Him, repent of your sins, and He will give you mercy and peace. You are loved!

For such a time as this.

2 Chronicles 7:14 “If My people, who are called by My name, will humble themselves and pray and seek My face and turn from their wicked ways, then will I hear from heaven and will forgive their sins and will heal their land

.

May God have mercy on us all

 What if His People Prayed – Casting Crowns

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=No-UFdmTI30