It's officially Advent, a time of expectation.
What do you expect to be for the next 25 days until Christmas?
Blessed… or stressed?
Too often, particularly at this time of year, there seems to be too much to do and not enough day to do it!
Years ago someone shared with me a quote by Allen Redpath,
“There are enough hours in the day to do what God wants you to do…
...and no more.”
So, if I’m too busy, the question that begs to be answered is,
“What am I doing that God doesn’t want me to do?”
It may be a good thing, even a very good thing, but not a God thing.
Not what He wants me to do, right here, right now.
Oswald Chambers said, “Good is the enemy of best.” How often am I busy doing a good thing and miss the best thing? How often am I distracted like Martha, rather than sitting at the feet of Jesus, like Mary? Martha of Bethany reminds me of Martha Stewart, who’s tag line was “It’s a good thing.” What Martha was doing was a good thing. Jesus and His crew needed to eat, didn’t they? They needed a place to rest, and Martha wanted them to be comfortable, didn’t she?
But Jesus said that Mary chose the better thing. It wasn’t that Mary never served. She did. But not when the better thing to do was sit and listen to her Guest. True hospitality makes the guest feel welcome and important, not impressed by the fashionable surroundings. And when your guest is Jesus, there is nothing more important than listening.
You might respond, “But I HAVE to ________________.” (fill in the blank)
Do you really?
• What would happen if you used lovely paper plates instead of china (like I did at Thanksgiving)?
• What if your children didn’t have to participate in all the sports/arts/music/scouts/etc. activities that they are presented with?
• What if you purposely left a box of decorations in the attic this year?
• What if you bought fewer gifts this year?
• What if you used dollar store gift bags rather than wrapping each gift?
• What if you committed some time each day to be spent just listening to Jesus?
Ask yourself, “Is what I am spending my time on a good thing? or the best thing?”
Lord, help me sift through the many demands on my time and determine which is the best thing You want for me. Help me to not feel guilty or disappointed, but to enjoy the satisfaction of being in Your presence.
Susan
Advent Conspiracy
Week #2 of our 40-day Focus is now complete! How are you doing keeping the Lord as the focus of your preparations, get-togethers, alone time? Today is a new day to start over if necessary. Invite Him to go shopping with you, to hang out in the kitchen with you, to spend time with your family.
Jesus prayed this for His disciples and for us, His future disciples.
My prayer is not that You take them out of the world but that You protect them from the evil one. They are not of the world, even as I am not of it. Sanctify them by the truth; Your word is truth. As You sent me into the world, I have sent them into the world. ... I have made You known to them, and will continue to make You known in order that the love You have for me may be in them and that I myself may be in them." (John 17:15-18, 26)
We are under His protection as we are sent out into the world. He is in us as we travel here and there. He's in us in the stores, in the traffic, in the family gatherings. We represent Him to the world. This time of year, we will have more opportunities to share Christ than at any other time of year. Let us make the most of every opportunity! Be wise in the way you act toward outsiders; make the most of every opportunity. Colossians 4:5
He didn't promise it would be easy. He promised He would be with us.
Today is officially the first day of Advent, the period of expectation and waiting for the arrival of Christmas.
A few weeks ago, my daughter visited another church. She was a guest artist, dancing to "Lead Me To The Cross," at a church in the next town. She came back so excited having heard about the Advent Conspiracy.
Jesus prayed this for His disciples and for us, His future disciples.
My prayer is not that You take them out of the world but that You protect them from the evil one. They are not of the world, even as I am not of it. Sanctify them by the truth; Your word is truth. As You sent me into the world, I have sent them into the world. ... I have made You known to them, and will continue to make You known in order that the love You have for me may be in them and that I myself may be in them." (John 17:15-18, 26)
We are under His protection as we are sent out into the world. He is in us as we travel here and there. He's in us in the stores, in the traffic, in the family gatherings. We represent Him to the world. This time of year, we will have more opportunities to share Christ than at any other time of year. Let us make the most of every opportunity! Be wise in the way you act toward outsiders; make the most of every opportunity. Colossians 4:5
He didn't promise it would be easy. He promised He would be with us.
Today is officially the first day of Advent, the period of expectation and waiting for the arrival of Christmas.
A few weeks ago, my daughter visited another church. She was a guest artist, dancing to "Lead Me To The Cross," at a church in the next town. She came back so excited having heard about the Advent Conspiracy.
Our family has decided that we will not be buying gifts for each other this year. We will still do stocking stuffers (gotta open something on Christmas morning!), but our gifts to each other will be things like: support for missionaries in Uganda, wells for clean drinking water, etc. We will each research and individually decide which need we wish to meet with the money that we would otherwise have used for gifts.
Our pastor will be sharing this message with the church as well. And I encourage you to take a look at the website http://www.adventconspiracy.org/ and share this information with your friends and family.
"The King will reply, 'I tell you the truth, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers of mine, you did for me.' "Matt. 25:40
Lord, as we enter the Advent season, help us to be ever more aware of Your presence. Help us daily to walk in expectation of Your coming.
Susan
Christmas Miracles
Today's post comes from Kelly at Chatty Kelly from Virginia. I met Kelly (and Sonya) at the Philadelphia Writers Conference this summer, and they graciously accepted me into their circle of friends.
This isn't a book review. I haven't read the book shown here, Christmas Miracles, by Cecil Murphey and Marley Gibson. No, but I was almost published in it. I submitted my story of a Christmas miracle to this book, and received the response that it would be included with the other stories of people who experienced miracles at Christmas.
I was overjoyed! To be published in a REAL book would be so amazing, and something with Cecil Murphey's name attached to it, unbelievable. Soon thereafter I received my contract and signed and returned it, eagerly awaiting the book's publication. But then somethings happened. "We regret to inform you...." Seems the publisher thought the book was too long. Six stories had to be cut. Six. One of them mine.
The disappointment was pretty big. No publication, no name in print. It stung. Time has passed, and my wound has healed, but to see the book in print does recreate the longing. But I made a connection with Cecil Murphey and have had a chance to email with him a few times. He is really nice, and I'm blessed by the connection. I've submitted my story to another venue (Chicken Soup for the Soul) and I can hope it will be accepted there.
So I have a choice. I can decide to be miserable that my story wasn't published, or I be thankful for the connections made and hope for another chance to be published.
What disappointments are facing you this Christmas? What will you decide? To be miserable, or to find something to be thankful for, and to look ahead with hope. If we could all change our thinking to be thankful and hopeful, well wouldn't that be the biggest Christmas miracle of all?
Romans 5:3-5 -- Not only so, but we also rejoice in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope. And hope does not disappoint us, because God has poured out his love into our hearts by the Holy Spirit, whom he has given us.
Lord, though the world may disappoint us, hope does not. How thankful I am to know that You turn my disappointments into God-appointments - opportunities to develop Christ-likeness that I would not have otherwise.
Susan
Black Friday
I can’t help but think of another “Black Friday”, a day when the greatest price was paid for the greatest gift ever given. 2000 years ago, an innocent man gave His life so that others might live. Jesus, God the Son, left His heavenly home, to be born into an ordinary family and live an ordinary life in an ordinary town, until He began His extra-ordinary ministry on earth. For 3 years, He healed the hurting, taught those who would listen, and preached the truth to all. The conclusion of His time on earth was paying the price for the sins of the entire world, past, present and future, and providing the gift of eternal life to any who receive it.
Now that Thanksgiving Day is over, let’s continue to live with thanksgiving in our hearts.
Thank you Lord for paying the debt we owe. Thank you for rising from the dead in victory, giving us the opportunity to live in victory. May we keep you as our focus in the days and weeks to come, and be ever ready to share the real reason for the season.
Susan
It's Not Always Picture Perfect
The picture "Freedom From Want", by beloved painter Norman Rockwell, is a wonderful depiction of the All-American holiday, Thanksgiving Day. This poignant painting seems so simple, yet it is actually very complex. For example, it has over 100 different shades of the color white in it. Sometimes, looking at the big picture, we miss the details.
For many across the country, their day will be as perfect as this picture, a festive day filled with family, friends, football and food, food, food. But for some, Thanksgiving Day will be a sad reminder of loss, pain, absence, hurt.
Today, through the "magic" of Facebook, I heard from a young single mother who was seeking the ex-wife of her baby's father, a man who had abandoned her and their son. While I wasn't the person she was looking for, I offered to pray for her, and plan to followup with her. This Thanksgiving Day will be difficult for her and her little boy, and for so many others like her. It will be difficult for families with soldiers overseas, for single people longing for a family unit, for those with health issues, haunting memories or too many bills and not enough income.
When we face difficult times, is it possible to offer thanksgiving to God? Two days ago, I shared that Jesus gave thanks when He broke the bread representing His body broken at the hands of His betrayer and His crucifiers. How was He able to do so? The writer of Hebrews tells us that He endured the cross for the joy set before Him. He fixed His eyes on the joy of what He was accomplishing - the reconciliation of His people to Himself - and we are told to fix our eyes on Him. (Hebrews 12:2)
He was able to offer thanks, because He was filled with thanks. It is out of the abundance of our hearts that our mouths speak (Luke 6:45) So if we are filled with thanks, we will offer thanksgiving. My friend, Lisa, sent out an email this week and signed it "Happy Thankful Day!" We can't give what we don't have. So to give thanks, we must be thankful.
We don't offer thanksgiving just because we are feeling thankful. We offer it because He deserves it. We offer it because we are His children with all the benefits that relationship provides. He is worthy of our praise and thanksgiving. Period. Circumstances change. We change. He never changes.
Tonight, a pop-up ad for Oscar Mayer bacon streamed across my computer screen.
"Thanksgiving doesn't have to end Thursday night
....for the love of bacon."
Hmmm, I'd rather say it this way:
"Thanksgiving doesn't have to end Thursday night
....for the love of Jesus."
Lord, thank You for Your unfailing, unending love for us. May we all experience Your presence today. May we sense Your love and provision. And as we fill up with thankfulness, may we offer up thanksgiving as a testimony to You.
Susan
Turkey Day?
Surfing the internet, I came across an old article from Elisabeth Elliot's newsletter. Here is an excerpt from that article:
Some people are substituting “Turkey Day” for Thanksgiving. I think it must be because they are not aware that there’s anybody to thank, and the most important thing about the holiday is food. Christians know there is Somebody to thank, but often when we make a list of things to thank Him for we include only things we like. A bride can’t get away with that. She writes a note to everybody, not only the rich uncle who gave the couple matching BMW’s, but the poor aunt who gave them a crocheted toilet-paper cover. In other words, she has to express thanks for whatever she’s received.
Take the list of whatever we’re not thankful for and measure it against the mighty foundations stones of our faith. Some of us know very little of suffering, but we know disappointments and betrayals and loss and bitterness. Are we really meant to thank God for such things? Let’s be clear about one thing: God does not cause all the things we don’t like. But He does permit them to happen because it is in this fallen world that we humans must learn to walk by faith. He doesn’t leave us to ourselves, however. He shares every step. He walked this lonesome road first, He gave Himself for us, He died for us. “Can we not trust such a God to give us, with Him, everything else that we can need?” [Rom. 8:32 JBP] Those disappointments give us the chance to learn to know Him and the meaning of His gifts, and in the midst of darkness, to receive His light. Doesn’t that transform the not-thankful list into a thankful one?
Lord, thank you for transforming our darkness into light, our trials into triumphs, our weakness into strength.
Susan
Some people are substituting “Turkey Day” for Thanksgiving. I think it must be because they are not aware that there’s anybody to thank, and the most important thing about the holiday is food. Christians know there is Somebody to thank, but often when we make a list of things to thank Him for we include only things we like. A bride can’t get away with that. She writes a note to everybody, not only the rich uncle who gave the couple matching BMW’s, but the poor aunt who gave them a crocheted toilet-paper cover. In other words, she has to express thanks for whatever she’s received.
Take the list of whatever we’re not thankful for and measure it against the mighty foundations stones of our faith. Some of us know very little of suffering, but we know disappointments and betrayals and loss and bitterness. Are we really meant to thank God for such things? Let’s be clear about one thing: God does not cause all the things we don’t like. But He does permit them to happen because it is in this fallen world that we humans must learn to walk by faith. He doesn’t leave us to ourselves, however. He shares every step. He walked this lonesome road first, He gave Himself for us, He died for us. “Can we not trust such a God to give us, with Him, everything else that we can need?” [Rom. 8:32 JBP] Those disappointments give us the chance to learn to know Him and the meaning of His gifts, and in the midst of darkness, to receive His light. Doesn’t that transform the not-thankful list into a thankful one?
Lord, thank you for transforming our darkness into light, our trials into triumphs, our weakness into strength.
Susan
He Gave Thanks
The Lord Jesus, on the night He was betrayed, took bread, and when He had given thanks, He broke it and said, "This is My body, which is for you; do this in remembrance of Me." 1 Cor. 11:23
Amazing! Jesus, knowing that He was betrayed, knowing that the bread represented His broken body, knowing what He was to suffer, gave thanks. So agonizing that He would later pray that His "cup" be taken from Him (Mt. 26:39), He still gave thanks to the Father.
And He set an example for us to follow (John 13:15).
Oh, but He was Jesus, God incarnate. We're not. Surely, we can't do what He can do... Can we?
Can we give thanks in the midst of suffering? Can we give thanks when there seems to be no hope?
James tells us to consider it joy whenever we face trials, not because of the trial itself, but because of what the trial produces: perseverance, maturity, completeness. (James 1:2-4) The New Living Translation puts it this way: Dear brothers and sisters, when troubles come your way, consider it an opportunity for great joy. For you know that when your faith is tested, your endurance has a chance to grow. So let it grow, for when your endurance is fully developed, you will be perfect and complete, needing nothing.
We are not asked to give thanks FOR the trial, but for the opportunity it presents to us. We are asked to give thanks in spite of the trial, to look past it and see that God is working in it and through it for our benefit.
Yesterday, Sonya shared that thanksgiving is a decision. It's a choice that the Pilgrims made, and a choice that we must make. I was taught in school that the Pilgrims were thankful to the Indians. That's false. The truth is that the Pilgrims were thankful to God. Not because of their hardships, but in spite of them. It is unlikely that any of us will ever face the hardships the Pilgrims faced. We have different ones in our generation, to be sure, but the fact that they were thankful to God despite their hardships provides hope that we can be too.
And He empowers us to do what He asks us to do.
You, however, are controlled ... by the Spirit, if the Spirit of God lives in you. ... The Spirit helps us in our weakness. (Romans 8:9, 26)
And not only does He give us His power, He provides benefits and blessings besides!
My friend, Sharon at momandlovingit.org, shared a recent disappointment with me. During our discussion, she made a statement I will long remember:
"A grateful heart is rarely discontent."
Lord, help us to be grateful, to see the purpose in difficulties and disappointments, to allow You to work to bring us to maturity.
Susan
Amazing! Jesus, knowing that He was betrayed, knowing that the bread represented His broken body, knowing what He was to suffer, gave thanks. So agonizing that He would later pray that His "cup" be taken from Him (Mt. 26:39), He still gave thanks to the Father.
And He set an example for us to follow (John 13:15).
Oh, but He was Jesus, God incarnate. We're not. Surely, we can't do what He can do... Can we?
Can we give thanks in the midst of suffering? Can we give thanks when there seems to be no hope?
James tells us to consider it joy whenever we face trials, not because of the trial itself, but because of what the trial produces: perseverance, maturity, completeness. (James 1:2-4) The New Living Translation puts it this way: Dear brothers and sisters, when troubles come your way, consider it an opportunity for great joy. For you know that when your faith is tested, your endurance has a chance to grow. So let it grow, for when your endurance is fully developed, you will be perfect and complete, needing nothing.
We are not asked to give thanks FOR the trial, but for the opportunity it presents to us. We are asked to give thanks in spite of the trial, to look past it and see that God is working in it and through it for our benefit.
Yesterday, Sonya shared that thanksgiving is a decision. It's a choice that the Pilgrims made, and a choice that we must make. I was taught in school that the Pilgrims were thankful to the Indians. That's false. The truth is that the Pilgrims were thankful to God. Not because of their hardships, but in spite of them. It is unlikely that any of us will ever face the hardships the Pilgrims faced. We have different ones in our generation, to be sure, but the fact that they were thankful to God despite their hardships provides hope that we can be too.
And He empowers us to do what He asks us to do.
You, however, are controlled ... by the Spirit, if the Spirit of God lives in you. ... The Spirit helps us in our weakness. (Romans 8:9, 26)
And not only does He give us His power, He provides benefits and blessings besides!
My friend, Sharon at momandlovingit.org, shared a recent disappointment with me. During our discussion, she made a statement I will long remember:
"A grateful heart is rarely discontent."
Lord, help us to be grateful, to see the purpose in difficulties and disappointments, to allow You to work to bring us to maturity.
Susan
Being Thankful Is A Decision
I am thrilled to announce that several "blogger friends" have agreed to guest post here at Eternity Cafe during our 40 Day Focus.
Today's post comes from a sweet friend in Virginia, Sonya Thompson at Truth4TheJourney.
Three days from now we are going to celebrate Thanksgiving. The holiday set up by the pilgrims to celebrate the planting of a new colony here in America. With six children, we've read the Thanksgiving story many, many times. One thing is clear, they were thankful - but not because it had been easy for them.
.
When they came to America, they didn't expect extreme hardships. They were hoping to find fame and fortune and religious freedom. If they knew the hardships that they would have faced that first year, do you think they would have volunteered to come? They experienced famine, sickness, death, hostile Indians - just to name a few! They were cold and unprepared for what they were faced with. But, they had one thing that got them through - FAITH IN GOD!
.
No matter what was going on, they made sure that they were at church and learning about the Bible and their God. They prayed and believed, and when loved ones started dying, their faith remained. I'm in awe that they chose to celebrate that first year in America. I have to admit that at first glance, it didn't seem so successful, or victorious.
So how did they celebrate and give thanks with pure hearts after suffering such loss and trauma? They knew the Bible! Here's what one verse says:
1Thessalonians 5:18 In every thing give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you.
This is only one of many, many scriptures on giving thanks.
So what is going on in your life this year? I know that for me, 2009 has been a year of great trials and great pain. My beloved father stepped into heaven (unexpectedly) in August, just to share one trial my family has been through. Now I have a choice to make. I can allow myself to fall in to a pattern of sadness with negative feelings, or I can focus on scriptures and let God teach me how to have a thankful heart.
I am convinced that the only way to get through the pain of life is to break forth with praises and rejoicing to the God who is always faithful and who never sleeps or forsakes His children. Stay focused on the scriptures, dig into them daily, and you will find the strength to have a grateful heart this Holiday Season.
James 1:2-3 Consider it pure joy, my brothers, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance.
Philippians 4:6 Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.
Hebrews 13:15 Through Jesus, therefore, let us continually offer to God a sacrifice of praise.
Sonya Lee Thompson
http://truth4thejourney.blogspot.com
Thank you, Sonya, for such insight and encouraging words.
Dear Lord,
May we make the choice to be thankful. May we see past our circumstances to see You. Help us to be obedient in the giving of thanks as this is your will for us (1 Thess. 5:18).
Susan
Today's post comes from a sweet friend in Virginia, Sonya Thompson at Truth4TheJourney.
Three days from now we are going to celebrate Thanksgiving. The holiday set up by the pilgrims to celebrate the planting of a new colony here in America. With six children, we've read the Thanksgiving story many, many times. One thing is clear, they were thankful - but not because it had been easy for them.
.
When they came to America, they didn't expect extreme hardships. They were hoping to find fame and fortune and religious freedom. If they knew the hardships that they would have faced that first year, do you think they would have volunteered to come? They experienced famine, sickness, death, hostile Indians - just to name a few! They were cold and unprepared for what they were faced with. But, they had one thing that got them through - FAITH IN GOD!
.
No matter what was going on, they made sure that they were at church and learning about the Bible and their God. They prayed and believed, and when loved ones started dying, their faith remained. I'm in awe that they chose to celebrate that first year in America. I have to admit that at first glance, it didn't seem so successful, or victorious.
So how did they celebrate and give thanks with pure hearts after suffering such loss and trauma? They knew the Bible! Here's what one verse says:
1Thessalonians 5:18 In every thing give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you.
This is only one of many, many scriptures on giving thanks.
So what is going on in your life this year? I know that for me, 2009 has been a year of great trials and great pain. My beloved father stepped into heaven (unexpectedly) in August, just to share one trial my family has been through. Now I have a choice to make. I can allow myself to fall in to a pattern of sadness with negative feelings, or I can focus on scriptures and let God teach me how to have a thankful heart.
I am convinced that the only way to get through the pain of life is to break forth with praises and rejoicing to the God who is always faithful and who never sleeps or forsakes His children. Stay focused on the scriptures, dig into them daily, and you will find the strength to have a grateful heart this Holiday Season.
James 1:2-3 Consider it pure joy, my brothers, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance.
Philippians 4:6 Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.
Hebrews 13:15 Through Jesus, therefore, let us continually offer to God a sacrifice of praise.
Sonya Lee Thompson
http://truth4thejourney.blogspot.com
Thank you, Sonya, for such insight and encouraging words.
Dear Lord,
May we make the choice to be thankful. May we see past our circumstances to see You. Help us to be obedient in the giving of thanks as this is your will for us (1 Thess. 5:18).
Susan
7 Day Checkup....
Seven days ago, I presented a challenge - a 40 Day Focus - a time when we make a decision to keep Jesus in the forefront, day by day, hour by hour, minute by minute.
7 days down...
33 days to go...
Has it been hard?
Have you noticed any difference in your days?
-----
Today's post comes from James MacDonald:
I'm going to begin with a radical statement: You will never experience the fullness of joy that you were created to know until Jesus Christ has first place in every area of your life.
Now hang onto that for a minute. First place.
First in your home.
First in your choices for entertainment.
First in the way you use your money.
First in your career.
First in your thoughts.
First in your decisions.
First in your marriage.
First in your singleness.
First in your relationships.
First in your dreams for the future.
Say it now: "I will never experience the fullness of joy that I was created to know until I put Jesus Christ first in every area of my life."
I think a lot of people would intellectually subscribe to that statement, but I wonder how many of us would truly embrace it in a way that affects our behavior? Doing so doesn't come easily.
Colossians 1:16 says, "All things were created through him and for him." Through Christ and for Christ. Some people have a hard time with that. They're like, "I can handle the fact that He created the universe, but I have a hard time with Him creating the universe for Himself. Who does He think He is? His glory? His pleasure? His purpose? Is that ever prideful! How self-centered can you get?!"
Listen. The amazing thing is not that Jesus Christ created us for Himself. The amazing thing is that He cares at all. The amazing thing is that He has chosen in His incredible grace to love us, to dwell with us, to forgive us-the list goes on.
Think about your life. Think about His persistent love. Think about how faithfully He pursues you in spite of yourself. The next time you sin or reject or ignore Him, how amazing is it that He just doesn't walk away and say, "Forget you!" We are here to bring Him glory and to make Him known. He is our purpose and we find our greatest joy when He is at the center of our lives.
-----
He is first, and yet He also is last. He came before, and He will be with us throughout, and He'll be there to greet us at the end. It is only fitting that He takes first place in our hearts, our thoughts, our decisions. And when we put Him first, everything else just fits into place.
I am the Alpha and the Omega, the First and the Last, the Beginning and the End. Rev. 22:13
Susan
7 days down...
33 days to go...
Has it been hard?
Have you noticed any difference in your days?
-----
Today's post comes from James MacDonald:
"That in everything, He might have first place." Col. 1:18
I'm going to begin with a radical statement: You will never experience the fullness of joy that you were created to know until Jesus Christ has first place in every area of your life.
Now hang onto that for a minute. First place.
First in your home.
First in your choices for entertainment.
First in the way you use your money.
First in your career.
First in your thoughts.
First in your decisions.
First in your marriage.
First in your singleness.
First in your relationships.
First in your dreams for the future.
Say it now: "I will never experience the fullness of joy that I was created to know until I put Jesus Christ first in every area of my life."
I think a lot of people would intellectually subscribe to that statement, but I wonder how many of us would truly embrace it in a way that affects our behavior? Doing so doesn't come easily.
Colossians 1:16 says, "All things were created through him and for him." Through Christ and for Christ. Some people have a hard time with that. They're like, "I can handle the fact that He created the universe, but I have a hard time with Him creating the universe for Himself. Who does He think He is? His glory? His pleasure? His purpose? Is that ever prideful! How self-centered can you get?!"
Listen. The amazing thing is not that Jesus Christ created us for Himself. The amazing thing is that He cares at all. The amazing thing is that He has chosen in His incredible grace to love us, to dwell with us, to forgive us-the list goes on.
Think about your life. Think about His persistent love. Think about how faithfully He pursues you in spite of yourself. The next time you sin or reject or ignore Him, how amazing is it that He just doesn't walk away and say, "Forget you!" We are here to bring Him glory and to make Him known. He is our purpose and we find our greatest joy when He is at the center of our lives.
-----
He is first, and yet He also is last. He came before, and He will be with us throughout, and He'll be there to greet us at the end. It is only fitting that He takes first place in our hearts, our thoughts, our decisions. And when we put Him first, everything else just fits into place.
I am the Alpha and the Omega, the First and the Last, the Beginning and the End. Rev. 22:13
Susan
How to Survive the Distractions
Back in ancient Turkey lived a young boy who loved to amble through the marketplace. Accompanying his wandering feet were his wandering eyes… and his wandering hands. His curiosity turned him into a thief. The sights, sounds and smells of the marketplace were a relentless temptation for him. One quick grab, two swift feet and the object of his desire would be his.
Until he was caught.
The penalty for thievery = the amputation of the thief’s hands at dawn.
Slowly, the sun’s rays peeked out over the horizon. Dawn was coming too quickly for the little thief. Brought in chains before the king, he waited for his sentence to be carried out. As the king viewed the prisoner, compassion filled his heart. He presented a shell filled to the brim with oil to the lad. “If you can carry this shell through the market from one end to the other without spilling a drop, you will not have your hands cut off.”
Tenderly, the boy took the shell and worked his way through the market. The vendors hawked their wares, screaming for attention. The smells wafted up the boy’s nostrils. Colorful banners, tents, merchandise crowded his passageway through the alleys of the marketplace. But the boy carefully wove his way through the crowd, past all the distractions that usually captivated him.
When he arrived at the other end, there stood the king awaiting his arrival. The boy raised the shell and presented it to the king, filled with oil. Not a drop was spilled.
“How did you manage to get through the market without spilling a drop?” asked the king.
“I kept my eyes focused on the shell the whole time,” said the boy.
“That,” said the king, “is how you are to always move through the market. Keep your eyes focused where they belong, and you will not be tempted by the distractions along the way.”
I share this story because we will all be in markets of various kinds over the next few weeks. The mall, the supermarket, the boutiques. We will be shopping for gifts, for food, for our families, to bring to other’s homes. There will be vendors tempting us with their wares, salespeople who are inattentive or incompetent, fellow shoppers who are inconsiderate, traffic jams, lack of parking, should I go on? There will be all manner of situations designed by the enemy to rob our joy, to steal our peace, to hinder our witness, to distract us from the real meaning and purpose of Thanksgiving and Christmas.
The antidote?
Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy set before him endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. Consider him who endured such opposition from sinful men, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart. Heb. 12:2-3
Fix our eyes on Jesus.
Consider Him.
And you will not grow weary and lose heart.
Lord, help us to fix our eyes, our minds, our emotions on You. Help us to sense Your presence in the midst of the chaos. We love You.
Susan
Until he was caught.
The penalty for thievery = the amputation of the thief’s hands at dawn.
Slowly, the sun’s rays peeked out over the horizon. Dawn was coming too quickly for the little thief. Brought in chains before the king, he waited for his sentence to be carried out. As the king viewed the prisoner, compassion filled his heart. He presented a shell filled to the brim with oil to the lad. “If you can carry this shell through the market from one end to the other without spilling a drop, you will not have your hands cut off.”
Tenderly, the boy took the shell and worked his way through the market. The vendors hawked their wares, screaming for attention. The smells wafted up the boy’s nostrils. Colorful banners, tents, merchandise crowded his passageway through the alleys of the marketplace. But the boy carefully wove his way through the crowd, past all the distractions that usually captivated him.
When he arrived at the other end, there stood the king awaiting his arrival. The boy raised the shell and presented it to the king, filled with oil. Not a drop was spilled.
“How did you manage to get through the market without spilling a drop?” asked the king.
“I kept my eyes focused on the shell the whole time,” said the boy.
“That,” said the king, “is how you are to always move through the market. Keep your eyes focused where they belong, and you will not be tempted by the distractions along the way.”
I share this story because we will all be in markets of various kinds over the next few weeks. The mall, the supermarket, the boutiques. We will be shopping for gifts, for food, for our families, to bring to other’s homes. There will be vendors tempting us with their wares, salespeople who are inattentive or incompetent, fellow shoppers who are inconsiderate, traffic jams, lack of parking, should I go on? There will be all manner of situations designed by the enemy to rob our joy, to steal our peace, to hinder our witness, to distract us from the real meaning and purpose of Thanksgiving and Christmas.
The antidote?
Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy set before him endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. Consider him who endured such opposition from sinful men, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart. Heb. 12:2-3
Fix our eyes on Jesus.
Consider Him.
And you will not grow weary and lose heart.
Lord, help us to fix our eyes, our minds, our emotions on You. Help us to sense Your presence in the midst of the chaos. We love You.
Susan
The Captivity of Activity
My good friend, Joanne at Blessed, often writes about how to be free from the "captivity of activity". She and her family of 6 literally took a sabbatical from all extra-curricular activities for a year. Look for her book in the future!
In today's devotion from author Henry Blackaby, we see how our activities should be used to draw us closer to God. If activities are interfering with our relationship with Him, we are in bondage to them and must break free. Sports, hobbies, music lessons, etc. can be excellent ways to develop the gifts He's given us.
As long as they don't become our idols.
-------
Henry Blackaby:
"You have seen what I did to the Egyptians, and how I bore you on eagles' wings and brought you to Myself." Exodus 19:4
God did not deliver the children of Israel out of Egypt so that they could enjoy the Promised Land. He freed them so they could come to know and worship Him. Three months after they left Egypt, God reminded His people why He had delivered them "on eagles' wings." It was to bring the people to Himself. That is, God saved them so that they could enjoy intimate fellowship with Him. The Israelites had been slaves with no freedom to worship God. Now, with their own land, they could come to know and serve God freely. God's call was not to destroy the idolatrous nations in Canaan, not to settle the lands they conquered, and not to establish a new nation, although all of these would be accomplished. Rather, God called them primarily to be a people who loved and worshiped Him. Through God's act of deliverance they came to know Him as an almighty and compassionate God, and they were now free to respond to Him.
We are so activity oriented that we assume we were saved for a task we are to perform rather than for a relationship to enjoy. God uses our activities and circumstances to bring us to Himself. When He gives us a God-sized assignment, its sheer impossibility brings us back to Him for His enabling. When God allows us to go through crises, it brings us closer to Him.
If we are not careful, we can inadvertently bypass the relationship in order to get on with the activity. When you are busy in your activity for God, remember that God leads you to the experiences in order to bring you to Himself.
--------
At this time of year, our activity level seems to grow exponentially. Sometimes, we need to "just say no." And not feel guilty!! But, if you say yes, Always give yourselves fully to the work of the Lord, because you know that your labor in the Lord is not in vain. 1 Cor. 15:58
Susan
In today's devotion from author Henry Blackaby, we see how our activities should be used to draw us closer to God. If activities are interfering with our relationship with Him, we are in bondage to them and must break free. Sports, hobbies, music lessons, etc. can be excellent ways to develop the gifts He's given us.
As long as they don't become our idols.
-------
Henry Blackaby:
"You have seen what I did to the Egyptians, and how I bore you on eagles' wings and brought you to Myself." Exodus 19:4
God did not deliver the children of Israel out of Egypt so that they could enjoy the Promised Land. He freed them so they could come to know and worship Him. Three months after they left Egypt, God reminded His people why He had delivered them "on eagles' wings." It was to bring the people to Himself. That is, God saved them so that they could enjoy intimate fellowship with Him. The Israelites had been slaves with no freedom to worship God. Now, with their own land, they could come to know and serve God freely. God's call was not to destroy the idolatrous nations in Canaan, not to settle the lands they conquered, and not to establish a new nation, although all of these would be accomplished. Rather, God called them primarily to be a people who loved and worshiped Him. Through God's act of deliverance they came to know Him as an almighty and compassionate God, and they were now free to respond to Him.
We are so activity oriented that we assume we were saved for a task we are to perform rather than for a relationship to enjoy. God uses our activities and circumstances to bring us to Himself. When He gives us a God-sized assignment, its sheer impossibility brings us back to Him for His enabling. When God allows us to go through crises, it brings us closer to Him.
If we are not careful, we can inadvertently bypass the relationship in order to get on with the activity. When you are busy in your activity for God, remember that God leads you to the experiences in order to bring you to Himself.
--------
At this time of year, our activity level seems to grow exponentially. Sometimes, we need to "just say no." And not feel guilty!! But, if you say yes, Always give yourselves fully to the work of the Lord, because you know that your labor in the Lord is not in vain. 1 Cor. 15:58
Susan
Meditation
In yoga and eastern philosophy, meditation is the emptying of the mind. Repeating "ohmmmm" over and over and "not thinking" is supposed to help "focus consciousness on the cosmic whole".
Whatever that means.
For Christians, meditation is not the emptying of the mind, but rather filling it with the Word of God. The word "meditation" means "rumination" which is how a cow digests her food. A cow has multiple stomachs. She will graze a pasture eating everything in sight, but the grass remains in the first stomach until digestion starts. Then it moves back and forth between stomachs (and even back to the mouth to be chewed) until every nutrient is extracted.
Meditation on God's Word is like rumination. We can read large portions to gain wisdom and understanding, but when we contemplate a Scripture over and over and over, it nourishes us, becoming part of our soul, like the nutrients we eat become part of our cells.
Rick Warren, in The Purpose Driven Life, describes meditation this way: "Meditation is focused thinking. It takes serious effort. You select a verse and reflect on it over and over in your mind...if you know how to worry, you already know how to meditate".
Warren goes on to say, "No other habit can do more to transform your life and make you more like Jesus than daily reflection on Scripture…If you look up all the times God speaks about meditation in the Bible, you will amazed at the benefits He has promised to those who take the time to reflect on His Word throughout the day".
A tiny book I read years ago provided great advice for meditation. Before you nod off to sleep, read in the Psalms. Read until a particular verse hits you. Then say that verse over and over as you fall asleep. Then, all through the night, your subconscious mind which never sleeps will be contemplating the Word rather than the scary story you saw on the nightly news.
Keep that verse in your mind as you work, shop, run errands, taxi the kids, prepare for Thanksgiving and Christmas. Say it aloud. Emphasize a different word each time you say the verse.
"Meditation will renew our minds (Rom. 12:1) so that we will think and act more like Christ. Its objective is to reflect on what God has said and done (Ps. 77:12; 119:15-16,97) and on what He is like (48:9-14)." [Cindy Hess Kasper, Our Daily Bread]
So, let's start chewing our spiritual cud!
I will meditate on the glorious splendor of Your majesty, and on Your wondrous works. Psalm 145:5
Susan
Whatever that means.
For Christians, meditation is not the emptying of the mind, but rather filling it with the Word of God. The word "meditation" means "rumination" which is how a cow digests her food. A cow has multiple stomachs. She will graze a pasture eating everything in sight, but the grass remains in the first stomach until digestion starts. Then it moves back and forth between stomachs (and even back to the mouth to be chewed) until every nutrient is extracted.
Meditation on God's Word is like rumination. We can read large portions to gain wisdom and understanding, but when we contemplate a Scripture over and over and over, it nourishes us, becoming part of our soul, like the nutrients we eat become part of our cells.
Rick Warren, in The Purpose Driven Life, describes meditation this way: "Meditation is focused thinking. It takes serious effort. You select a verse and reflect on it over and over in your mind...if you know how to worry, you already know how to meditate".
Warren goes on to say, "No other habit can do more to transform your life and make you more like Jesus than daily reflection on Scripture…If you look up all the times God speaks about meditation in the Bible, you will amazed at the benefits He has promised to those who take the time to reflect on His Word throughout the day".
A tiny book I read years ago provided great advice for meditation. Before you nod off to sleep, read in the Psalms. Read until a particular verse hits you. Then say that verse over and over as you fall asleep. Then, all through the night, your subconscious mind which never sleeps will be contemplating the Word rather than the scary story you saw on the nightly news.
Keep that verse in your mind as you work, shop, run errands, taxi the kids, prepare for Thanksgiving and Christmas. Say it aloud. Emphasize a different word each time you say the verse.
"Meditation will renew our minds (Rom. 12:1) so that we will think and act more like Christ. Its objective is to reflect on what God has said and done (Ps. 77:12; 119:15-16,97) and on what He is like (48:9-14)." [Cindy Hess Kasper, Our Daily Bread]
So, let's start chewing our spiritual cud!
I will meditate on the glorious splendor of Your majesty, and on Your wondrous works. Psalm 145:5
Susan
Christmas... so soon???
Tired of retailers rushing Christmas? So are these guys:
"Nutcrackers before Thanksgiving? An embarassment!"
Every time I see that commercial, I just crack up!
And yet here I am talking about Christmas for 40 days!
But, as I said, it's not about the Christmas spirit-- it's about the Holy Spirit!
Last year, my friend, Lisa, was asked, as we all have been asked,
"Are you ready for Christmas?"
She responded, "Yes, because Christmas is about Jesus, and I'm ready for Him."
Are you ready for Him?
"Be dressed ready for service and keep your lamps burning, like men waiting for their master to return from a wedding banquet, so that when he comes and knocks they can immediately open the door for him. Luke 12:35-36
"Nutcrackers before Thanksgiving? An embarassment!"
Every time I see that commercial, I just crack up!
And yet here I am talking about Christmas for 40 days!
But, as I said, it's not about the Christmas spirit-- it's about the Holy Spirit!
Last year, my friend, Lisa, was asked, as we all have been asked,
"Are you ready for Christmas?"
She responded, "Yes, because Christmas is about Jesus, and I'm ready for Him."
Are you ready for Him?
"Be dressed ready for service and keep your lamps burning, like men waiting for their master to return from a wedding banquet, so that when he comes and knocks they can immediately open the door for him. Luke 12:35-36
No Separation Anxiety
Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? Shall trouble or hardship or persecution or famine or nakedness or danger or sword? ... No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us. For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord. Romans 8:35, 38-39
As a child, my daughter and some of her little classmates suffered from separation anxiety. Leaving their moms at the door to preschool became a test of patience and grace. The moms knew they weren't leaving their children, but the children's perspective was one of separation.
As God's children, we can be comforted to know that He will never leave us or forsake us. He has assured us of that repeatedly (Deut. 31:6, Deut. 31:8, Joshua 1:5, 1 Kings 8:57 and Hebrews 13:5). Nothing can separate us from His love (Rom. 8)
Jesus left His home in heaven to dwell among us. Did He experience separation anxiety? No, Jesus said that He and the Father are one. Though wrapped in flesh and living as a man, He was one with His Father. And He said that we are one with Him.
So if He feels distant, the question is: Who moved?
As far as we might feel from God sometimes, it is only ever one step back into experiencing His presence. Repent, then, and turn to God, so that your sins may be wiped out, that times of refreshing may come from the Lord. Acts 3:19
Next week is Thanksgiving. We are given the opportunity to contemplate what we have to be thankful for. When we list our blessings, the fact that God desires to be in our presence should be at the top of our lists. Over these 40 days, may we rejoice in His presence.
You will show me the way of life, granting me the joy of Your presence and the pleasures of living with You forever. Psalm 16:11
Susan
As a child, my daughter and some of her little classmates suffered from separation anxiety. Leaving their moms at the door to preschool became a test of patience and grace. The moms knew they weren't leaving their children, but the children's perspective was one of separation.
As God's children, we can be comforted to know that He will never leave us or forsake us. He has assured us of that repeatedly (Deut. 31:6, Deut. 31:8, Joshua 1:5, 1 Kings 8:57 and Hebrews 13:5). Nothing can separate us from His love (Rom. 8)
Jesus left His home in heaven to dwell among us. Did He experience separation anxiety? No, Jesus said that He and the Father are one. Though wrapped in flesh and living as a man, He was one with His Father. And He said that we are one with Him.
So if He feels distant, the question is: Who moved?
As far as we might feel from God sometimes, it is only ever one step back into experiencing His presence. Repent, then, and turn to God, so that your sins may be wiped out, that times of refreshing may come from the Lord. Acts 3:19
Next week is Thanksgiving. We are given the opportunity to contemplate what we have to be thankful for. When we list our blessings, the fact that God desires to be in our presence should be at the top of our lists. Over these 40 days, may we rejoice in His presence.
You will show me the way of life, granting me the joy of Your presence and the pleasures of living with You forever. Psalm 16:11
Susan
Are you expecting?
Are you expecting?
Those words could be a thrill or they could strike fear in your heart.
It all depends upon what you are expecting.
2000 years ago, there was an expectation in the land of Israel that the Messiah would be coming (Luke 3:15). For 400 years (twice as long as the United States has existed!), there had been no spoken or written word from God. The prophecies pointed to this time in history as the time when their fulfillment would occur. The anticipation was palpable. How would the Messiah come? Who would He be? Would He meet their expectations?
Flash forward 2000 years. The church calendar recognizes the season before Christmas as Advent (from the Latin word, adventus, meaning "coming"). Traditionally, Advent commences on the fourth Sunday before Christmas Day. It is a season of expectant waiting and preparation for the celebration of the Nativity of Jesus.
As Advent approaches, what are you expecting?
If you were you expecting a season of stress, perhaps this will be the year that those expectations will not be met!
Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things. Colossians 3:2
As a photographer adjusts the lens of her camera, adjust the lens of your expectations. When the circumstances of your life, the things that are so close - the earthly things - are in crisp focus, everything else is out of focus. But by adjusting our lens, we can bring into crisp focus the things of God - the things above. Then the things of earth are not so defined. We can still see them; we know they are there, but they no longer are our focus. When we seek Him, we will find Him. We can find Him in the midst of our circumstances. We can find Him outside of our circumstances. He is never hard to find. If we are looking in the right places.
Those words could be a thrill or they could strike fear in your heart.
It all depends upon what you are expecting.
2000 years ago, there was an expectation in the land of Israel that the Messiah would be coming (Luke 3:15). For 400 years (twice as long as the United States has existed!), there had been no spoken or written word from God. The prophecies pointed to this time in history as the time when their fulfillment would occur. The anticipation was palpable. How would the Messiah come? Who would He be? Would He meet their expectations?
Flash forward 2000 years. The church calendar recognizes the season before Christmas as Advent (from the Latin word, adventus, meaning "coming"). Traditionally, Advent commences on the fourth Sunday before Christmas Day. It is a season of expectant waiting and preparation for the celebration of the Nativity of Jesus.
As Advent approaches, what are you expecting?
If you were you expecting a season of stress, perhaps this will be the year that those expectations will not be met!
Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things. Colossians 3:2
As a photographer adjusts the lens of her camera, adjust the lens of your expectations. When the circumstances of your life, the things that are so close - the earthly things - are in crisp focus, everything else is out of focus. But by adjusting our lens, we can bring into crisp focus the things of God - the things above. Then the things of earth are not so defined. We can still see them; we know they are there, but they no longer are our focus. When we seek Him, we will find Him. We can find Him in the midst of our circumstances. We can find Him outside of our circumstances. He is never hard to find. If we are looking in the right places.
In the morning, O LORD, you hear my voice;
in the morning I lay my requests before You
and wait in expectation. Psalm 5:3
in the morning I lay my requests before You
and wait in expectation. Psalm 5:3
Lord, we are expecting.... We are expecting to sense Your presence over these 40 days. We expect to see You exalted among Your people. We expect to be at peace as we keep our focus on You. Thank you, Jesus!
Susan
40 Days...
Throughout history, God has used 40-day periods to accomplish His purposes.
- It rained for 40 days delivering Noah, his family and the animals from destruction.
- For 40 days, Moses was on Mount Sinai, face to face with God, receiving the Ten Commandments.
- The spies of the nation of Israel surveyed the promised land for 40 days.
- Jonah, in obedience, went to Ninevah proclaiming destruction in 40 days and inspired a revival in the sinful city.
- Jesus spent 40 days in the wilderness overcoming temptation before beginning His earthly ministry.
- For 40 days, Jesus walked the earth after His resurrection, giving many "convincing proofs", speaking of the kingdom of God, and birthing the early church.
- Even in this century, Pastor Rick Warren influenced millions of people with his 40 day plan in his bestseller book, The Purpose Driven Life.
Well, 40 days from today is..... Christmas Day!
How will your next 40 days be spent?
Blessed..... or stressed?
Yesterday, I had a wonderful day with the women at Harvest Christian Fellowship in NYC, sharing this message at their annual Thanksgiving Women's Fellowship. Speaking on the subject of Thanksgiving, I felt led to share from Phil. 4:6-9 where Paul exhorts us to "not be anxious about anything.... but WITH THANKSGIVING... present our requests to God." We are approaching a period of time that each year is often filled with anxiety rather than thanksgiving. This may be a deliberate attempt of the enemy of our souls to distract us from the glorious truth that God came from heaven to earth so that God and sinner could be reconciled.
So, believing that God can do amazing things in your life over the next 40 days, I am sharing a challenge with you - that together we can each have a revival in our personal lives and can influence those around us to draw close to God as well.
My desire is not that you get into the Christmas spirit.....
but that you be filled with the Holy Spirit.
As you know, I don't usually post more than 2 times per week because I don't want to flood your inbox and because I don't want to drive my family or myself crazy to write more than that. However, I will be posting every day for the next 40 days! Why and how will I do this?
Why-
I want to partner together with you in this challenge to use these next 40 days as a time for renewal, restoration and revival. I will share devotions as well as practical tips to redeem this time as preparation for our coming King.
How-
Each day I will share either:
- Something old - a previous post of mine
- Something new - a newly written post
- Something borrowed - shared from another writer
- Nothing blue - all posts will be uplifting, motivating, encouraging, useful!
Will you join me in the 40 day challenge?
Will you commit to redeeming this time?
Will you let me know so that I can pray for you during this time?
Will you share your insights with me and my readers by leaving a comment?
Will you encourage others to walk this 40 day journey with us?
Lord, may those reading this today be encouraged to take this challenge with me and commit the next 40 days to draw closer to You, to not be influenced by the stresses in their world, to be blessed rather than stressed, to redeem this time, to glorify You with their words and their deeds.
May the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be pleasing in your sight, O LORD, my Rock and my Redeemer. Psalm 19:14
Susan
Leaf Me Alone!
At this time of year, there is a whirring sound heard ‘round the neighborhood. Up and down the streets, neighbors are doing their fall leaf cleanups.
One side effect of being empty-nesters is that my son is not available to help my husband with the annual leaf cleanup. With our over-abundance of leaves, it is a huge undertaking. Without AJ, my husband turned to me…. Oh, joy! My husband wore the backpack blower while I loosened up the wet leaves underneath with the rake.
But with the beautiful weather, it wasn’t as bad as I expected. It was fun to work together and even provided a few spiritual insights!
First of all, we only have this responsibility because we are blessed to own a home. Renters do not have to rake leaves, but when you are a homeowner, it’s necessary. We must be good stewards of what God has entrusted us with. A home that is not maintained falls into disrepair and loses its value. Likewise, the spiritual gifts that we have been blessed with are not to be left undeveloped and unused. If we have the gift of teaching, we are to study to show ourselved approved. If we have the gift of helps, we ought to seek out those in need. Those who are gifted musically practice to keep their skills sharp. The servant who buried his talent was called "wicked and lazy," but those who invested theirs were told "well done, good and faithful servant." (Matt. 25:23, 26)
When I was trying alone to move the leaves with the rake, it was hard work. I was striving in my own strength when I sensed a strong wind behind me - the blower - and the leaves suddenly lifted easily. So it is with the Spirit = the pneuma = the wind! We can toil in our own strength and make a little progress. But when His power comes, we are lifted in the struggle. We no longer bear the burden alone. We can accomplish greater things with greater ease when it is in His power that we labor.
but those who hope in the LORD will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint. Isaiah 40:31
The blower, though, needed the assistance of the rake to loosen up the matted leaves that were wedged in corners or under bushes. Now God doesn't need us to accomplish His purposes, but the Spirit can accomplish more in our lives when we partner with Him. He prompts us, reminds us, leads us, directs us, but it is when we respond in obedience that we can see change and victory.
Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light." Matt. 11:29-30
Our work for the day was finally done. My aching muscles were thankful I'm married to a chiropractor! But the full cleanup is not done. We tackled the front yard, but the sides and back may need professional help. Sometimes, we too need help from godly counselors who are trained to lead us through difficult times.
And when it was all done, I looked up toward the heavens thankful for the victory over the leaves - only to see the branches still had some more leaves that were sure to fall... aaarrgggghhhh! It's NEVER over!!! Next year, the glorious herald of spring will carry the chore of the fall cleanup with it. And as long as we breathe, there will always be something that God will work in our lives. Paul was thankful that he had come so far in his walk with the Lord, but he also knew there was still far to go, more work to be done. Can this be discouraging sometimes? Sure, but only if we look at how far we still have to go without remembering how far we've come.
Not that I have already obtained all this, or have already been made perfect, but I press on to take hold of that for which Christ Jesus took hold of me. ...But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus. Phil. 3:12-14
Susan
How to Climb Mount Everest!
Recently, I attended a chiropractic seminar with my husband. The speaker one night was Dr. Tim Warren, who climbed Mount Everest reaching the summit. His talk and slide show were captivating, and his conclusion was a quote by one of the guides (called "sherpas") who helped lead Dr. Tim and his group up to the summit.
"If you are facing in the right direction,
keep putting one foot in front of the other."
- Phinjo Sherpa
I just love that quote. So often, we hear motivational quotes regarding the importance of putting one foot in front of the other:
Keep on keepin' on.
When the going gets tough, the tough get going.
Don't watch the clock. Do what it does...
keep going. - Sam Levenson
When you come to the end of your rope,
tie a knot and hang on. - Franklin D. Roosevelt
Consider the postage stamp:
its usefulness consists in the ability to
stick to one thing till it gets there. - Josh Billings
But, what all these quotes lack is the importance of facing the right direction. Frequently, we're running a race that is just spinning our wheels, or worse - taking us in the wrong direction - away from the plan God has for us. Jonah put his feet, one in front of the other, but in the wrong direction! Same for Elijah, Jacob, Moses, David, need I go on?
Sometimes, we are trying to reach the mountaintop in our own strength like the Galatians: Are you so foolish? After beginning with the Spirit, are you now trying to attain your goal by human effort? Galatians 3:3
To reach our goal, we must follow the wisdom Paul shared with the Philippians: Not that I have already obtained all this, or have already been made perfect, but I press on to take hold of that for which Christ Jesus took hold of me. Brothers [and sisters], I do not consider myself yet to have taken hold of it. But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus. Phil. 3:12-14
Climbing Mt. Everest was no easy task. Dr. Warren could not always see his finish line. The journey required a considerable amount of effort, money, time, and committment.
Walking with the Lord is a committment as well, but we have the best Guide ever! He will lead us into all truth, set us in the right direction, strengthen us to keep putting our feet one in front of the other, enable us to scale heights unknown.
Susan
Rejection Correction!
I am just technically challenged, no two ways about it. It's really a wonder that I can do this blog at all!
In my last post about rejection, I had cut and pasted a Scripture verse [Ps. 94:14] into the post. Unfortunately, it split in two with 1/2 above and 1/2 below my other verse [Prov. 3:5-6]. I have no idea how this happened, but when it did, I lost the link to the Proverbs 31 devo about rejection. So ......
First of all, here's the correct link to the devotion
(written by Lysa TerKeurst, President of Proverbs 31 Ministries):
http://proverbs31devotions.blogspot.com/2009/11/rejection.html
And while I'm here at the keyboard, I can't resist adding some additional nuggets :)
I have already heard from some of you what a timely topic this was for you, too. From job loss to family issues to friendship hardships, it's been just tough all around. Some of us are feeling the sting of recent rejection, and some of us are still trying to deal with past rejection, trying to make sense of it, to overcome it, to let the pain of it subside. Emotions may have been buried, but never confronted, and so they fester only to erupt later.
I want to share with you part of a comment that was left anonymously on the P31 devotion:
"Disappointment is a part of life. Not a pleasant part, but one that affords the opportunity to wallow in self pity like the spoiled brat OR be redirected, realigned, brought into right relationship. Like the merging lane to enter the freeway, disappointment will end and we'll be on our way- on His straight path- as we trust in Him with all our hearts (Prov 3:5). If the road seems excessively bumpy, I may want to consider if I've continued down the side of the road, hanging on to disappointment, instead of following in the direction the LORD has prepared."
This comment really hit home for me. I don't think I'm necessarily a "spoiled brat", but I sure do like to "wallow in self-pity" sometimes. If I don't want to hang on to disappointment, rejection, or any other emotion that will keep me from enjoying God's best, I need to readdress my focus (as I've shared previously). Lysa's devo closed with these encouraging words:
But God's girls have a beautiful promise tucked in our pocket that lets us smile even when tears puddle in the corner of our eyes. Even when there's no rainbow, pot of gold, or galloping prince, we have the promise of redemption.
On the other side of every death there will always be a resurrection of some sort. Maybe not a resurrection of our circumstances. And maybe not a resurrection of things lining up like we thought they should. But there will be a resurrection. Jesus has insured that.
Nothing in this world can permanently strip hope from our lives when we know we do "not follow cleverly invented stories…about the power and coming of our Lord Jesus Christ" but we follow the reality of the Risen One (2 Peter 1:16, NIV). He is our resurrection.
He is our hope.
He is that beautiful reminder that rejection from man never means rejection from God.
And He is the one who is weaving a story into our life that will one day make sense.
Dear Lord, I know You suffered the sting of rejection in a much more intense way than I ever will. And while this rejection is small in the grand scheme of life, it feels huge in my heart right now. Will You help me process this? Will You help me see past it? Will You let this fragile heart feel the warmth of Your acceptance and love today? In Jesus' Name, Amen.
Thanks to Lysa and the anonymous commenter for adding such timely insights!
Susan
In my last post about rejection, I had cut and pasted a Scripture verse [Ps. 94:14] into the post. Unfortunately, it split in two with 1/2 above and 1/2 below my other verse [Prov. 3:5-6]. I have no idea how this happened, but when it did, I lost the link to the Proverbs 31 devo about rejection. So ......
First of all, here's the correct link to the devotion
(written by Lysa TerKeurst, President of Proverbs 31 Ministries):
http://proverbs31devotions.blogspot.com/2009/11/rejection.html
And while I'm here at the keyboard, I can't resist adding some additional nuggets :)
I have already heard from some of you what a timely topic this was for you, too. From job loss to family issues to friendship hardships, it's been just tough all around. Some of us are feeling the sting of recent rejection, and some of us are still trying to deal with past rejection, trying to make sense of it, to overcome it, to let the pain of it subside. Emotions may have been buried, but never confronted, and so they fester only to erupt later.
I want to share with you part of a comment that was left anonymously on the P31 devotion:
"Disappointment is a part of life. Not a pleasant part, but one that affords the opportunity to wallow in self pity like the spoiled brat OR be redirected, realigned, brought into right relationship. Like the merging lane to enter the freeway, disappointment will end and we'll be on our way- on His straight path- as we trust in Him with all our hearts (Prov 3:5). If the road seems excessively bumpy, I may want to consider if I've continued down the side of the road, hanging on to disappointment, instead of following in the direction the LORD has prepared."
This comment really hit home for me. I don't think I'm necessarily a "spoiled brat", but I sure do like to "wallow in self-pity" sometimes. If I don't want to hang on to disappointment, rejection, or any other emotion that will keep me from enjoying God's best, I need to readdress my focus (as I've shared previously). Lysa's devo closed with these encouraging words:
But God's girls have a beautiful promise tucked in our pocket that lets us smile even when tears puddle in the corner of our eyes. Even when there's no rainbow, pot of gold, or galloping prince, we have the promise of redemption.
On the other side of every death there will always be a resurrection of some sort. Maybe not a resurrection of our circumstances. And maybe not a resurrection of things lining up like we thought they should. But there will be a resurrection. Jesus has insured that.
Nothing in this world can permanently strip hope from our lives when we know we do "not follow cleverly invented stories…about the power and coming of our Lord Jesus Christ" but we follow the reality of the Risen One (2 Peter 1:16, NIV). He is our resurrection.
He is our hope.
He is that beautiful reminder that rejection from man never means rejection from God.
And He is the one who is weaving a story into our life that will one day make sense.
Dear Lord, I know You suffered the sting of rejection in a much more intense way than I ever will. And while this rejection is small in the grand scheme of life, it feels huge in my heart right now. Will You help me process this? Will You help me see past it? Will You let this fragile heart feel the warmth of Your acceptance and love today? In Jesus' Name, Amen.
Thanks to Lysa and the anonymous commenter for adding such timely insights!
Susan
Rejection ... NOT!
On Tuesday nights, my small group and I have been studying Overcoming Fear. Each week, we focus on a different type of fear. Last Tuesday was the fear of rejection. We had a great discussion, but who knew it would be so timely? The next day, I received not one, but two rejection notices from publishers!
And I'm not alone! Last week, a friend in our group received a rejection notice from a job she applied for. And another friend from this summer's writers conference received 3 rejection notices for her work. Must be rejection season!
Then, this week unbelievably, my inbox contained a devotion about rejection (from Proverbs 31 ministry) AND an email article for writers called "Rejecting Rejection". If you have been dealing with rejection, click on the links to be encouraged. God's timing always amazes me. How could He who keeps the entire universe spinning in perfection be concerned with our tiny wounded hearts?
But I submit to you that there is a valuable lesson to be learned from rejection. Jesus Himself was rejected (Isaiah 53:3). He was perfect, and even He was rejected. Can we expect anything different? Being rejected, He asked the Father to forgive them. When we are rejected, we are given an opportunity to develop Christlikeness, an opportunity that we would not have were it not for the rejection we received.
For most of my life, I lived in fear and never stepped through doors that the Lord placed before me. This year, I walked through the doors, even though it meant risking rejection. Playing it safe had kept me from moving forward. So even though I was rejected, I believe I was victorious just because I tried!
While I am not embracing rejection, I am not rejecting it either. I am determined to use it wisely. I will not harden my heart. I will seek to improve what needs improvement. And I will trust that in God's time, His plan will be accomplished. His plan, not mine! James tells us to consider it pure joy whenever you face trials ... because the testing of your faith develops perseverance ... so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything. (Jms 1:2-4) I'm not quite at the "joy" stage, but I am anticipating the benefits that He will bring to pass.
The Serenity Prayer
God grant me the serenity
to accept the things I cannot change;
courage to change the things I can;
and wisdom to know the difference.
Living one day at a time;
Enjoying one moment at a time;
Accepting hardships as the pathway to peace;
Taking, as He did, this sinful world
as it is, not as I would have it;
Trusting that He will make all things right
if I surrender to His Will;
That I may be reasonably happy in this life
and supremely happy with Him
forever in the next.
Amen.
--Reinhold Niebuhr
"For the LORD will not reject His people;
Trust in the LORD with all your heart
and lean not on your own understanding;
in all your ways acknowledge Him,
and He will direct your paths.
Proverbs 3: 5-6
Susan
He will never forsake his inheritance."
Psalm 94:14
Focus → Refocus
A little while ago, I shared about focus and how it is so easy to focus on the 1% negative instead of the 99% positive. Last week in Bible study, one of the women made a sweet comment that Ashley's hair was so beautiful and my nails were so nice. She didn't say anything about anyone else in the room. Don't you know my first thought was "What's wrong with my hair?" Why, oh why, do we women do this to ourselves?
On a walk in the arboretum near my house, I again spotted my rainbow in the spray. I wanted to get a better look, so I moved past the tree to my right, and the rainbow disappeared!
Whatever is true:
Susan
On a walk in the arboretum near my house, I again spotted my rainbow in the spray. I wanted to get a better look, so I moved past the tree to my right, and the rainbow disappeared!
A step back to my previous position and the rainbow returned. In order to see the rainbow, I had to be in the right place and to be looking in the right direction.
And to see the promises of God, I also need spiritually to be in the right place and to be looking in the right direction. When Paul says, "Think on these things..." (Phil 4:8), it is an instruction to us - "Do this... Think this..." God would not instruct us to do something if we would not be able to do it.
Years ago, my friend Ashley, the one with the great hair, went through a difficult time. Tests revealed that the baby she was carrying was very sick, a chromosome anomoly. It was uncertain how long her baby would live. Ashley was faced with worries most of us could never imagine. To combat her fears, she put Paul's words to the test. She decided to make a list of "whatever is true, noble, right, pure, lovely, admirable, excellent or praiseworthy." As she wrote, she realized that she didn't even have to go past "true." With Ashley's permission, here is her list:
Whatever is true:
1. The Lord gives strength to His people
2. The Lord blesses His people with peace Ps. 29:11
3. For You created my inmost being. You knit me together in my mother's womb Ps.139:13
4. For I am the Lord your God who takes hold of your right hand and says to you, "Do not fear. I will help you." Isaiah 41:13
5. He performs wonders that cannot be fathomed, miracles that cannot be counted. Job5:9
6. Jesus turned and said to Peter, "Get behind me, Satan! You are a stumbling block to Me; you do not have in mind the things of God, but the things of men." Matthew 16:23
Whatever is noble:
1. This is what God the Lord says-
He who created the heavens and stretches them out
Who spread out the earth and all that comes out of it
Who gives breath to its people and life to those who walk on it:
I, the Lord, have called you in righteousness
I will take hold of your hand. Isaiah 42:5-6
2. For God is the King of all the earth
Sing to Him a psalm of praise
God reigns over the nations
God is seated on His holy throne. Psalm 47:7,8
For the remainder of her pregnancy and baby Laura's short life, Ashley's list kept her thoughts from racing in a downward spiral. Throughout her trial, Ashley and her husband were beacons of light to those around them. At the funeral, the pastor said that baby Laura was like a shooting star that he and his family saw while star-gazing on a recent camping trip. For a brief moment, all attention was given to this shooting star. And for a brief while, with all attention on Laura and her family, God's light in them shone in the darkness. In their grief, they were able to comfort others with the comfort they received from the Lord. 2 Cor. 1:3-4
Be in the right place and be looking in the right direction, and the promises of God will be all you can see!
Susan
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