Good morning, everyone! This is Michele writing for you today, Chris has asked me to be his guest blogger. This morning's reading is from Isaiah 66:7-14. This section of scripture is filled with hope and assurance of what God is doing in our lives. Please read through this very encouraging portion of God's word and see what he is speaking into your heart! This is what popped out at me:
"Has a nation ever been born in a single day? Would I ever bring this nation to the point of birth and then not deliver it?" asks he Lord. "No! I would never keep this nation from being born." says your God. (v8-9)
Every now and again life throws us fiery arrows that we wish we didn't have to dodge or downright get hit by. I know that happens to me....sometimes it seems like an awful lot! We wonder......why me? What is God doing here? Does he know what he is doing? Does he even care that I am suffering and hurting? Doesn't he see that my loved one has had enough and doesn't deserve to be drug through such hard times? I could have thought of a much better way to go about this situation!
But, God is telling us in this passage of his Word that he doesn't plan to leave us in pain. Just like when a mother is giving birth to a child.......it hurts REALLY bad for a while until she holds that precious new baby in her arms.......and then the joy begins!! We even tend to forget how bad the pain was. How else would it have been possible for that joy to come into the world? The pain was necessary! The pain brought with it new life and joy and the awe of God's creation and plan!
God also reminds us that not only is it necessary for us to endure pain in order for the joy to begin.......we will go through many trials in our life on earth before our time here is through. "Has a nation ever been born in a single day?" (v. 8) God has amazing plans for our lives! If we really think about it, we can rejoice when we go through struggles because that means that God is evidently up to something in our lives! This passage tells us that joy will come.......after the pain!! I know from my own personal experience, I tend to cling tighter to God in hard times....I spend more time in his Word and on my knees. And when the current trial is over, he sometimes shows me why it had to be so hard.....and I can rejoice in his plan! Other times, I rejoice just because he saw me through, without knowing exactly why it had to unfold the way it did.
Lord, thank you for the hard times in life....the "birth pains". Thank you for using them to mold me and shape me into the person you want me to become. Thank you for delivering me from the darkness into your marvelous light and for the knowledge that someday I will be fully delivered into your heavenly home where there will be no more pain. Lord, you know what you are doing! Help me to remember that I have always made a mess of things when I've not trusted in your control in my life. Help me to choose your ways even when they seem too painful. I love you Jesus.......and I give you control!
Please feel free and welcome to share any comments with us!! Just choose the anonymous option in the drop down box and join in the conversation! Thank you so much for letting me share with you and have a great day! God loves you sooo much!!
Friday, April 29, 2011
Thursday, April 28, 2011
Clear Channel
Today I'm in the very last chapter of Isaiah, 66:1-6. Let's listen up to what God has to say to us through the closing oracles of the ministry of this great prophet. Read it through two or three times and reflect. The Holy Spirit is applying this thought on my heart about what kind of person I will be, as I must choose between two types :
These are the ones I look on with favor: those who are humble and contrite in spirit, and who tremble at my word. (v. 2)
Or the opposite group:
So I also will choose harsh treatment for them and will bring upon them what they dread. For when I called, no one answered, when I spoke, no one listened. (v. 4)
God is impressing me with the importance of listening to him. Really listening. In the final analysis, my life will be shaped and judged by how open and responsive I am to the word of God. He is always speaking. The question is whether I'm listening. I either am or I'm not, and it matters more than anything else in the world when it comes to where my choices are taking me in life.
Isn't it irritating when you keep trying to call someone day after day and they never answer their phone and they never call you back? I know that today's "smart" phones are for just about everything except making phone calls, but at some point I draw the conclusion that the person I'm calling really doesn't want to talk to me. And that's okay. They will be fine without me. But I know that I can't do without God. And God is actually saying to people, "I'm calling but you're not picking up. I'm speaking but you're ignoring me. I'm ringing the bell and you're leaving me standing there on the porch."
I don't want to be that person. I don't want the consequences that come when I'm barging my way through life without God's guidance. Been there, done that. It's not pretty. I've always wanted God to think highly of me. I want to feel his favor on me. But what does that take? It's pretty simple, God says: "Be humble. Be fully aware that you are not self-sufficient or sin-free. Recognize me as the source of life and mercy. Keep off your high horse and listen carefully to what I say. Respect my word and take it to heart. Just be responsive to my voice. I will lead you in the right direction."
Lord, forgive me for the times when I haven't listened to you carefully enough or sought out your voice before I acted. Your word is vital to my well-being. I realize that! Day or night, I will always take your calls. Thank you for speaking to me through your written word as well. I value it so highly as your most consistent voice in my life. Today I want to remove any filters that I've been putting on your messages to me--filters of fear, pride, worry, selfishness. I'm clearing the channel! There's no one I'd rather hear from than you, God! Amen.
If you're blessed by this blog would you mind sending the link to some friends and family that might also enjoy it? Thank you! Share the good stuff in life! That would include sharing your thoughts from this text below.
These are the ones I look on with favor: those who are humble and contrite in spirit, and who tremble at my word. (v. 2)
Or the opposite group:
So I also will choose harsh treatment for them and will bring upon them what they dread. For when I called, no one answered, when I spoke, no one listened. (v. 4)
God is impressing me with the importance of listening to him. Really listening. In the final analysis, my life will be shaped and judged by how open and responsive I am to the word of God. He is always speaking. The question is whether I'm listening. I either am or I'm not, and it matters more than anything else in the world when it comes to where my choices are taking me in life.
Isn't it irritating when you keep trying to call someone day after day and they never answer their phone and they never call you back? I know that today's "smart" phones are for just about everything except making phone calls, but at some point I draw the conclusion that the person I'm calling really doesn't want to talk to me. And that's okay. They will be fine without me. But I know that I can't do without God. And God is actually saying to people, "I'm calling but you're not picking up. I'm speaking but you're ignoring me. I'm ringing the bell and you're leaving me standing there on the porch."
I don't want to be that person. I don't want the consequences that come when I'm barging my way through life without God's guidance. Been there, done that. It's not pretty. I've always wanted God to think highly of me. I want to feel his favor on me. But what does that take? It's pretty simple, God says: "Be humble. Be fully aware that you are not self-sufficient or sin-free. Recognize me as the source of life and mercy. Keep off your high horse and listen carefully to what I say. Respect my word and take it to heart. Just be responsive to my voice. I will lead you in the right direction."
Lord, forgive me for the times when I haven't listened to you carefully enough or sought out your voice before I acted. Your word is vital to my well-being. I realize that! Day or night, I will always take your calls. Thank you for speaking to me through your written word as well. I value it so highly as your most consistent voice in my life. Today I want to remove any filters that I've been putting on your messages to me--filters of fear, pride, worry, selfishness. I'm clearing the channel! There's no one I'd rather hear from than you, God! Amen.
If you're blessed by this blog would you mind sending the link to some friends and family that might also enjoy it? Thank you! Share the good stuff in life! That would include sharing your thoughts from this text below.
Wednesday, April 27, 2011
Waiting on Christmas
You don't want to miss what God wants to say to you today in Isaiah 65:13-25! It's so encouraging to listen to him impress on me the promises he has made about the future he has in store for his servants! Give it a slow, thoughtful read. It's just 12 verses.
I'm creating new heavens and a new earth. All the earlier troubles, chaos, and pain are things of the past, to be forgotten. Look ahead with joy. Anticipate what Im creating. (v. 17-18 MSG)
Sometimes the sorrow and pain of this world feels so oppressive. It just weighs heavily on my heart like a load of bricks and my outlook turns bleak. But it is then that God speaks to me and shifts my focus to pan in on the future that is lingering on the horizon!
I can hardly stand to wait for this promise to be fulfilled! Things will not always be as they are now. The tide will turn. Darkness will give way to a brand new dawn, unspoiled and brilliant! The brokennes of this present earth will fall away and be replaced with the wholeness of the next. And this time it will remain whole. No more wars. No more animosity. No terrorist threats or email bombs. Just perfect harmony.
God, I long for you to bring in the new, eternal age where love, peace, joy, health, and goodness reign, where no one has to go without. Thank you that the healking we will experience in the new earth will be full and complete! I notice, God, that you don't want me to just try to endure until then, though. You want me to live to the fullest today, right here in the middle of the mess, with the joy of the thought of what's coming. You want me to sparkle with the giddiness of a child in Novemeber anticipating Christmas!
What do you have to share about what God is saying to you? Please comment below. First sign into your Google account or else just select Anonymous from the list beside "Comment As." Thanks!
I'm creating new heavens and a new earth. All the earlier troubles, chaos, and pain are things of the past, to be forgotten. Look ahead with joy. Anticipate what Im creating. (v. 17-18 MSG)
Sometimes the sorrow and pain of this world feels so oppressive. It just weighs heavily on my heart like a load of bricks and my outlook turns bleak. But it is then that God speaks to me and shifts my focus to pan in on the future that is lingering on the horizon!
I can hardly stand to wait for this promise to be fulfilled! Things will not always be as they are now. The tide will turn. Darkness will give way to a brand new dawn, unspoiled and brilliant! The brokennes of this present earth will fall away and be replaced with the wholeness of the next. And this time it will remain whole. No more wars. No more animosity. No terrorist threats or email bombs. Just perfect harmony.
God, I long for you to bring in the new, eternal age where love, peace, joy, health, and goodness reign, where no one has to go without. Thank you that the healking we will experience in the new earth will be full and complete! I notice, God, that you don't want me to just try to endure until then, though. You want me to live to the fullest today, right here in the middle of the mess, with the joy of the thought of what's coming. You want me to sparkle with the giddiness of a child in Novemeber anticipating Christmas!
What do you have to share about what God is saying to you? Please comment below. First sign into your Google account or else just select Anonymous from the list beside "Comment As." Thanks!
Tuesday, April 26, 2011
Seeker God
On this day I'm inviting you into chapter 65 of Isaiah as we continue to listen to what God is saying to us. I'm reading the first twelve verses. Let God speak it into your heart and consider how it applies to you. This is what grabbed my attention:
I revealed myself to those who did not ask for me; I was found by those who did not seek me. To a nation that did not call on my name, I said, 'Here am I, here am I.'" (v. 1)
Yesterday my thoughts were on how that getting close to God requires me making the effort, wanting that enough to reach out and take hold of him. But today he also reminds me that he is so gracious that he reaches out to people even when they aren't looking for him. I know some people like that. Maybe you do too. There are people in my life who don't have a relationship with God and don't seem to be remotely interested in stepping into one. Or they have a little interest but don't manage to ever make the time. There's always something else going on. I am really concerned for them. I want them to experience true life.
Yet even while they pay little attention to God, he will keep pursuing them. He may reveal himself to them when they--and I--least expect it. There are some people who will never find God. But God will find them. So I will continue to pray for them that God will do just that!
Father, you are so gracious, so long-suffering, so patient with people. We should be seekers, but you always are. Thank you for revealing yourself and extending your hands even to those of us who give you such little thought. The image this brings to my mind is a beautiful one--you, the Creator, stepping into people's lives, standing with arms open wide, inviting people to come and be loved, forgiven, and guided into real and eternal life. Today, I choose to reach out and accept your embrace. I choose to learn and live in your ways. I choose to seek you.
Please share what God is saying to you in this text. Comment below! (Sign into your Google account first, or just choose Anonymous from the "Comment As" drop-down menu.) I look forward to what you have to share!
I revealed myself to those who did not ask for me; I was found by those who did not seek me. To a nation that did not call on my name, I said, 'Here am I, here am I.'" (v. 1)
Yesterday my thoughts were on how that getting close to God requires me making the effort, wanting that enough to reach out and take hold of him. But today he also reminds me that he is so gracious that he reaches out to people even when they aren't looking for him. I know some people like that. Maybe you do too. There are people in my life who don't have a relationship with God and don't seem to be remotely interested in stepping into one. Or they have a little interest but don't manage to ever make the time. There's always something else going on. I am really concerned for them. I want them to experience true life.
Yet even while they pay little attention to God, he will keep pursuing them. He may reveal himself to them when they--and I--least expect it. There are some people who will never find God. But God will find them. So I will continue to pray for them that God will do just that!
Father, you are so gracious, so long-suffering, so patient with people. We should be seekers, but you always are. Thank you for revealing yourself and extending your hands even to those of us who give you such little thought. The image this brings to my mind is a beautiful one--you, the Creator, stepping into people's lives, standing with arms open wide, inviting people to come and be loved, forgiven, and guided into real and eternal life. Today, I choose to reach out and accept your embrace. I choose to learn and live in your ways. I choose to seek you.
Please share what God is saying to you in this text. Comment below! (Sign into your Google account first, or just choose Anonymous from the "Comment As" drop-down menu.) I look forward to what you have to share!
Monday, April 25, 2011
Grabbing God
I hope that you enjoyed a wonderful Easter! Knowing that Jesus is risen and alive forever is comforting and inspiring! He is still speaking to us through the ministry of the Holy Spirit, guiding us into real life. Let's read Isaiah 64:5-12 and let the power of Easter Sunday continue on Monday.
When my kids used to really want my attention and I was busy and trying to get away, they would both grab one of my legs and wrap themselves around it, sitting Indian style on my foot. They had a steel grip and I couldn't shake them off, so if I wanted to move I had to take one step at a time with a huge ankle weight attached! Sometimes it was a bit aggrevating because I was stuck. Basically immobile. But one thing for sure is that they got my attention.
Among the many rich thoughts in this text, this one is a needed reminder to me:
No one calls on your name or strives to lay hold of you. (v. 7)
It makes me think, when is the last time I tried to wrap myself around God's leg? How often do I want God's attention bad enough to reach out and try to grab him by the arm? Or when is the last time I wrapped my arms around him and clung to him? Obviously, this is a spiritual and not a physical move. But it is real nonetheless.
I love the statements in Scripture that assure me that God is holding me, that he has me in his hand. But if I want to really be close to God and experience his presence powerfully in my life it's no surprise that it takes more than a casual, half-hearted prayer or a ritualistic approach to God. I have to want him enough to lay hold of him. There is a difference between simply praying and calling on God's name. Both are good but the kind of prayers that take me closer to God are the ones when I call out to him with some intensity and an authentic sense of dependence.
Interesting, God not only pursues me; he likes to be pursued. He loves to see me desire him and his attention enough to refuse to let him walk on by. When I attach myself around his ankles and look up, he smiles back down at me. And God's smile...well, it changes everything!
Father, I need you and I need your blessing. I realize that I need to be more intent and more active in seeking your attention. Not because you are sometimes too busy and preoccupied. But because I am. Today, Lord, I will call on your name and try to reach out and lay hold of you. Amen.
Please share your comments and thoughts with us, too! If you're not signed in to your Google account you can do that in the top right corner of this page. If you don't have a Google account or don't want to mess with signing in, select Anonymous from the drop-down list beside "Comment As." (see below)
When my kids used to really want my attention and I was busy and trying to get away, they would both grab one of my legs and wrap themselves around it, sitting Indian style on my foot. They had a steel grip and I couldn't shake them off, so if I wanted to move I had to take one step at a time with a huge ankle weight attached! Sometimes it was a bit aggrevating because I was stuck. Basically immobile. But one thing for sure is that they got my attention.
Among the many rich thoughts in this text, this one is a needed reminder to me:
No one calls on your name or strives to lay hold of you. (v. 7)
It makes me think, when is the last time I tried to wrap myself around God's leg? How often do I want God's attention bad enough to reach out and try to grab him by the arm? Or when is the last time I wrapped my arms around him and clung to him? Obviously, this is a spiritual and not a physical move. But it is real nonetheless.
I love the statements in Scripture that assure me that God is holding me, that he has me in his hand. But if I want to really be close to God and experience his presence powerfully in my life it's no surprise that it takes more than a casual, half-hearted prayer or a ritualistic approach to God. I have to want him enough to lay hold of him. There is a difference between simply praying and calling on God's name. Both are good but the kind of prayers that take me closer to God are the ones when I call out to him with some intensity and an authentic sense of dependence.
Interesting, God not only pursues me; he likes to be pursued. He loves to see me desire him and his attention enough to refuse to let him walk on by. When I attach myself around his ankles and look up, he smiles back down at me. And God's smile...well, it changes everything!
Father, I need you and I need your blessing. I realize that I need to be more intent and more active in seeking your attention. Not because you are sometimes too busy and preoccupied. But because I am. Today, Lord, I will call on your name and try to reach out and lay hold of you. Amen.
Please share your comments and thoughts with us, too! If you're not signed in to your Google account you can do that in the top right corner of this page. If you don't have a Google account or don't want to mess with signing in, select Anonymous from the drop-down list beside "Comment As." (see below)
Friday, April 22, 2011
God of Heaven Come Down
The reality that God has revealed himself in time and space is huge! Without him doing that we would only be blindly groping in the dark trying to figure out who he is and what he is like. Yet we sometimes struggle to understand the dynamics of our relationship with him, don't we? Let's read from Isaiah 63:15 - 64:4. Rather than God speaking to us, here the Holy Spirit leads us to speak to God this prayer through his prophet Isaiah. What impresses you about it? For me it is this...
Look down from heaven and see.... Oh, that you would rend the heavens and come down.... Come down to make your name known.... For when you did awesome things that we did no expect, you came down.... You come to the help of those who gladly do right, who remember your ways. (63:15; 64:1-3, 5)
There is nothing more frustrating than believing in God's willingness and power to do mighty things and yet seeing him sit on his hands. That is especially aggrevating when the thing that we're asking for seems so obviously to be the best thing. Are you with me on that? Sometimes I want to say, "God, where are you? Everyone here knows that the best thing for everyone would be for you to...heal my loved one...bring a wave of new growth to your church...change this person's heart...stop that tsunami...provide for those children...help the Cowboys win another Super Bowl! Okay, maybe not everyone thinks that last one would be best, but your true children do!" (All right, I'm kidding!)
The people of Israel were feeling the same thing and Isaiah gave a voice to those emotions here. Why wasn't God coming to their rescue? Why were people dying prematurely at the hands of their enemies? Isn't he the God who saves? And God was perfectly okay letting those emotions be expressed in his holy scriptures. There's a reason for that. They are real and it's part of the human experience. God doesn't always agree with our evaluation of what is best. I suspect that's because we are so short-sighted. We see the here and the now. We imagine we can foresee what lies ahead but our premonitions often turn out to be so different than reality.
Imagine an ant trying to advise a rug maker on the pattern of the fibers he's weaving together, and doing this while standing on the unfinished rug. He objects, "Why are you putting that color thread on next? That doesn't look right! What are you putting black into it for? Nobody likes black anyway! It's too...depressing!" I am quite sure that I am in a far worse position than that ant in critquing God's weaving of the story of my life, and even more so the world's. I can't see the big picture. How could I? I'm much too close to one very small spot in the overall design. I can't discern the sweeping patterns and how they all interact with each other. I may think black moments in life a very poor choice on God's part, but I can't see how the black borders accentuate the brilliance and depth of the surrounding colors.
What I want is for God to come down. Come down to earth. Come down to my level. And he has...in the person of Jesus Christ. And now he's asking me to trust his heart, his wisdom and his power to finish his artwork and to make it beautiful, as he alone sees the big picture from his throne on high. He's the rug maker who became an ant so that he could communicate to me a little of what he's up to. I love that about him! I sometimes expect him to think like a fellow ant. But it will work out a lot better in the end that he has returned to his place as the rug maker. God, I'm so glad you're both a next door Savior and the King on high! May your will be done on earth as it is in heaven.
Please share your thoughts by adding a comment below!
Look down from heaven and see.... Oh, that you would rend the heavens and come down.... Come down to make your name known.... For when you did awesome things that we did no expect, you came down.... You come to the help of those who gladly do right, who remember your ways. (63:15; 64:1-3, 5)
There is nothing more frustrating than believing in God's willingness and power to do mighty things and yet seeing him sit on his hands. That is especially aggrevating when the thing that we're asking for seems so obviously to be the best thing. Are you with me on that? Sometimes I want to say, "God, where are you? Everyone here knows that the best thing for everyone would be for you to...heal my loved one...bring a wave of new growth to your church...change this person's heart...stop that tsunami...provide for those children...help the Cowboys win another Super Bowl! Okay, maybe not everyone thinks that last one would be best, but your true children do!" (All right, I'm kidding!)
The people of Israel were feeling the same thing and Isaiah gave a voice to those emotions here. Why wasn't God coming to their rescue? Why were people dying prematurely at the hands of their enemies? Isn't he the God who saves? And God was perfectly okay letting those emotions be expressed in his holy scriptures. There's a reason for that. They are real and it's part of the human experience. God doesn't always agree with our evaluation of what is best. I suspect that's because we are so short-sighted. We see the here and the now. We imagine we can foresee what lies ahead but our premonitions often turn out to be so different than reality.
Imagine an ant trying to advise a rug maker on the pattern of the fibers he's weaving together, and doing this while standing on the unfinished rug. He objects, "Why are you putting that color thread on next? That doesn't look right! What are you putting black into it for? Nobody likes black anyway! It's too...depressing!" I am quite sure that I am in a far worse position than that ant in critquing God's weaving of the story of my life, and even more so the world's. I can't see the big picture. How could I? I'm much too close to one very small spot in the overall design. I can't discern the sweeping patterns and how they all interact with each other. I may think black moments in life a very poor choice on God's part, but I can't see how the black borders accentuate the brilliance and depth of the surrounding colors.
What I want is for God to come down. Come down to earth. Come down to my level. And he has...in the person of Jesus Christ. And now he's asking me to trust his heart, his wisdom and his power to finish his artwork and to make it beautiful, as he alone sees the big picture from his throne on high. He's the rug maker who became an ant so that he could communicate to me a little of what he's up to. I love that about him! I sometimes expect him to think like a fellow ant. But it will work out a lot better in the end that he has returned to his place as the rug maker. God, I'm so glad you're both a next door Savior and the King on high! May your will be done on earth as it is in heaven.
Please share your thoughts by adding a comment below!
Wednesday, April 20, 2011
Carry Me
Almighty God is speaking to me today from Isaiah 63:7-14. Let's take a few minutes and soak in what he has to say. Before you read, pray for God to open your mind and heart to really hear and understand and receive it.
One thing that jumps out at me here is the three times he mentions the Holy Spirit. Only subtle glimpses of the Trinity are revealed in the Old Testament and so this is one of the exceptional texts. I am impressed with what is said about all that the Holy Spirit is to God's people, including his personal relationship of love with us. His heart is grieved when we rebel (v. 10). He lives among us to provide all the power we need to deliver us from whatever would enslave us (v. 11). His presence in our lives has a restful effect as we let him be our guide (v. 14).
But there's more:
In all their distress he too was distressed, and the angel of his presence saved them. In his love and mercy he redeemed them; he lifted them up and carried them . . . (v. 9).
God, it's so good to know that there is so much truth behind the classic "Footprints" poem. I hear you saying to me that you don't sit back disconnected from the hard things I go through. Instead you actually enter into my suffering with me. You actually feel my distress and my pain. When I hurt, you hurt. How amazing! I see the tender empathy of a mother for her child in you!
I also see the strength of father. You don't just care; you are there to save and deliver me. Your presence in my life is real and powerful and comforting. When I can't put one foot in front of the other, you really do pick me up in your strong arms and and carry me like a good dad through the darkest chapters of my life. I praise you, God, for your awesome love for me! And I treasure our relationship. Amen.
Your comments add so much to the conversation! Please comment below about how God is speaking to you in this text.
One thing that jumps out at me here is the three times he mentions the Holy Spirit. Only subtle glimpses of the Trinity are revealed in the Old Testament and so this is one of the exceptional texts. I am impressed with what is said about all that the Holy Spirit is to God's people, including his personal relationship of love with us. His heart is grieved when we rebel (v. 10). He lives among us to provide all the power we need to deliver us from whatever would enslave us (v. 11). His presence in our lives has a restful effect as we let him be our guide (v. 14).
But there's more:
In all their distress he too was distressed, and the angel of his presence saved them. In his love and mercy he redeemed them; he lifted them up and carried them . . . (v. 9).
God, it's so good to know that there is so much truth behind the classic "Footprints" poem. I hear you saying to me that you don't sit back disconnected from the hard things I go through. Instead you actually enter into my suffering with me. You actually feel my distress and my pain. When I hurt, you hurt. How amazing! I see the tender empathy of a mother for her child in you!
I also see the strength of father. You don't just care; you are there to save and deliver me. Your presence in my life is real and powerful and comforting. When I can't put one foot in front of the other, you really do pick me up in your strong arms and and carry me like a good dad through the darkest chapters of my life. I praise you, God, for your awesome love for me! And I treasure our relationship. Amen.
Your comments add so much to the conversation! Please comment below about how God is speaking to you in this text.
Tuesday, April 19, 2011
Vengeance and Redemption
Ever have those days when you just can't get it all done? I apologize for being so late in the day getting this entry done. I need to clone myself two or three times!
Sometimes I am longing to hear from God and then, when I do, I am a little unnerved by what he says. Today is one of those instances. I'm reading Isaiah 63:1-6. Go ahead and check it out. It's a little unusual in the way it's written, as though the prophet is a news reporter interviewing God as he returns from battle. What strikes you?
For the day of vengeance was in my heart, and the year of my redemption has come. (v. 4)
This text can best be described as a war cry of the Prince of Peace! It's one of those texts that makes us uncomfortable. I dwell on the goodness and grace of God, the unconditional love he gives the world through Jesus. And that is the emphasis of the Good News! But every now and then Jesus reminds me that he is also the Warrior King. He is no one to be toyed with. It's not a good idea to set yourself up as his enemy. He will love you and then he will splatter your blood all over himself. By the way, this text is the background of the similar description of Jesus in Revelation 19:11-18.
I feel intimidated by this violent picture God paints of himself. But the above statement in verse 4 helps me to understand something important. God's promise to bring judgment and destruction on the rebellious sinners of the world who refuse his free offer of forgiveness and grace is directly connected to his promise to deliver those who do. God's vengeance and redemption go hand-in-hand. There really is a Hell and it is for those who refuse Heaven. There will be justice done in God's universe. He is willing to pardon anyone for anything if they just repent of their evil and choose the source of Life, Love and Peace. But for those who don't, he will eventually have enough of them.
God lets us go through a lot here. Sometimes I'm outraged by things that happen to good people. I wonder why he would allow it, and I sometimes question his heart. But texts like this one remind me that all the innocent victims of abuse will one day be avenged and the victory will belong to God and his faithful people. In God's Kingdom, vengeance and salvation are two sides of the same coin.
Why not share your thoughts and impressions with us? Comment below.
Sometimes I am longing to hear from God and then, when I do, I am a little unnerved by what he says. Today is one of those instances. I'm reading Isaiah 63:1-6. Go ahead and check it out. It's a little unusual in the way it's written, as though the prophet is a news reporter interviewing God as he returns from battle. What strikes you?
For the day of vengeance was in my heart, and the year of my redemption has come. (v. 4)
This text can best be described as a war cry of the Prince of Peace! It's one of those texts that makes us uncomfortable. I dwell on the goodness and grace of God, the unconditional love he gives the world through Jesus. And that is the emphasis of the Good News! But every now and then Jesus reminds me that he is also the Warrior King. He is no one to be toyed with. It's not a good idea to set yourself up as his enemy. He will love you and then he will splatter your blood all over himself. By the way, this text is the background of the similar description of Jesus in Revelation 19:11-18.
I feel intimidated by this violent picture God paints of himself. But the above statement in verse 4 helps me to understand something important. God's promise to bring judgment and destruction on the rebellious sinners of the world who refuse his free offer of forgiveness and grace is directly connected to his promise to deliver those who do. God's vengeance and redemption go hand-in-hand. There really is a Hell and it is for those who refuse Heaven. There will be justice done in God's universe. He is willing to pardon anyone for anything if they just repent of their evil and choose the source of Life, Love and Peace. But for those who don't, he will eventually have enough of them.
God lets us go through a lot here. Sometimes I'm outraged by things that happen to good people. I wonder why he would allow it, and I sometimes question his heart. But texts like this one remind me that all the innocent victims of abuse will one day be avenged and the victory will belong to God and his faithful people. In God's Kingdom, vengeance and salvation are two sides of the same coin.
Why not share your thoughts and impressions with us? Comment below.
Monday, April 18, 2011
Beating On Heaven's Door
It's a new week! Congratulations on your desire to give God the central voice in your life! It will make all the difference. Join me listening to what he has to say in Isaiah 62:6-12 today. Ever wonder if God gets tired of hearing you pray about some particular need you have? Maybe he does! And maybe that's exactly how he wants it!
I have posted watchmen on your walls, O Jerusalem; they will never be silent day or night. You who call on the LORD, give yourselves no rest, and give him no rest till he establishes Jerusalem. (v. 6-7)
God actually invites me to wear him out with my prayers, reminding him of his promises and purposes. He challenges me to wear my knees out praying for these things to come. Is that because he is forgetful? He's got too many things on his plate and tends to let things slide if he's not constantly reminded and hassled to get on it? Hardly. Could it be that God is waiting for his people to get serious about praying? Could it be that he waits on me to see him as the only solution? Is he wanting his people's eyes turned intently on him before he brings in the age to come or even the next big blessing on his church? Might he be waiting for me to get more committed about praying for my life, my family, my relationships, my job before he moves to address my concerns?
Maybe the process of prayer--the process of learning to intently seek God's favor--is even more valuable to my overall well-being than the particular answers to those prayers.Maybe it's in that consistent seeking that I find something even better than what I'm asking for--a deeper dependence on God.
God promises to restore his people after times of darkness--specifically Jerusalem after its destruction by the Babylonians in 586 BC. And then he says this about how he, the King, has posted "watchmen" on the walls and given them the task of reminding him night and day of his promise until he keeps it. "Prayer warriors" is a term that may sound a little "out there" to some people. But they are such an amazing blessing! Who has God posted to pray constantly over my life? Has he posted me to pray constantly over someone else's? Over his church? What an important role that is! Lord, help me to fill it faithfully. And thank you for welcoming me to litter your throne room with my petitions!
Please share your thoughts on this text from Isaiah. What is God impressing on you? (Sign into your Google account first or choose Anonymous from the drop-down profile menu below.)
I have posted watchmen on your walls, O Jerusalem; they will never be silent day or night. You who call on the LORD, give yourselves no rest, and give him no rest till he establishes Jerusalem. (v. 6-7)
God actually invites me to wear him out with my prayers, reminding him of his promises and purposes. He challenges me to wear my knees out praying for these things to come. Is that because he is forgetful? He's got too many things on his plate and tends to let things slide if he's not constantly reminded and hassled to get on it? Hardly. Could it be that God is waiting for his people to get serious about praying? Could it be that he waits on me to see him as the only solution? Is he wanting his people's eyes turned intently on him before he brings in the age to come or even the next big blessing on his church? Might he be waiting for me to get more committed about praying for my life, my family, my relationships, my job before he moves to address my concerns?
Maybe the process of prayer--the process of learning to intently seek God's favor--is even more valuable to my overall well-being than the particular answers to those prayers.Maybe it's in that consistent seeking that I find something even better than what I'm asking for--a deeper dependence on God.
God promises to restore his people after times of darkness--specifically Jerusalem after its destruction by the Babylonians in 586 BC. And then he says this about how he, the King, has posted "watchmen" on the walls and given them the task of reminding him night and day of his promise until he keeps it. "Prayer warriors" is a term that may sound a little "out there" to some people. But they are such an amazing blessing! Who has God posted to pray constantly over my life? Has he posted me to pray constantly over someone else's? Over his church? What an important role that is! Lord, help me to fill it faithfully. And thank you for welcoming me to litter your throne room with my petitions!
Please share your thoughts on this text from Isaiah. What is God impressing on you? (Sign into your Google account first or choose Anonymous from the drop-down profile menu below.)
Friday, April 15, 2011
Delighted In
Friday is here and the weekend with it! Let God speak something to you to carry with you through it and bring you joy! Take a minute or two with me in Isaiah 62:1-5. Too soon we will have reached the end of this awesome letter from God! This jumped out at me today:
No longer will they call you Deserted, or name your land Desolate. But you will be called Hephzibah [meaning "my delight is in her"], and your land Beulah [meaning "married"]; for the LORD will take delight in you. . . . as a bridegroom rejoices over his bride, so will your God rejoice over you. (v. 4-5)
In yesterday's blog I commented on a statement in the previous chapter about how we should delight greatly in the Lord and rejoice in our God (61:10). Now here, just a few lines later, God speaks to me and reminds us that he actually delights in me! He rejoices over me! It's easy to delight in God when you really know God. He's beyond good; he's the definition of awesome! There is so much to rejoice in about him and what he's done! But it's harder to really accept what he is telling me here--that he delights and rejoices in me. I know me. I'm just not that good. Why would a perfectly holy, infinitely loving God rejoice over me? What about me would captivate him?
For some reason we really want an answer to that question. And since we don't get one, we decide to doubt that it's true. It just seems more humble to beat ourselves up and downplay our standing with him. Some of us even make a strange sort of peace with being one of the black sheep of his family. It helps us justify our stubborn, rebellious choices or just our lack of enthusiasm about serving his mission. After all, he doesn't think much of me anyhow.
Oh but that's where we're wrong! Now, admittedly God isn't saying that he delights in and rejoices over everyone. In fact, in the context he is saying that after he takes his people through a hard period of discipline for their obstinate self-will and they repent and turn back to him, then he will delight in them and rejoice over them. Then he will renew and restore them to his favor. Then they will experience his blessing in major ways.
So the question is where is my heart with God? If I delight in him and rejoice in what he has done for me then it will lead me down a path where one thing I can know for certain is that he delights in me, too. Right now, in this very moment, God is celebrating me! It sounds conceited, doesn't it? But he said it, not me! I would never have thought he would feel that way about me, but he does.
My God, I feel undeserving of your delight, but I affirm what you have said to me here. Thank you so much for delighting in me just as I delight in you! It makes me feel so loved and honored to know this and to hear you say to me that you are rejoicing over me as I go through my days! Truly amazing, Lord! Immensely wonderful! With that truth in my heart I find myself loving to live for you! Amen.
Please share your thoughts and comments with us below! Sign in with your Google account first or just choose Anonymous from the drop-down list. Thank you!
No longer will they call you Deserted, or name your land Desolate. But you will be called Hephzibah [meaning "my delight is in her"], and your land Beulah [meaning "married"]; for the LORD will take delight in you. . . . as a bridegroom rejoices over his bride, so will your God rejoice over you. (v. 4-5)
In yesterday's blog I commented on a statement in the previous chapter about how we should delight greatly in the Lord and rejoice in our God (61:10). Now here, just a few lines later, God speaks to me and reminds us that he actually delights in me! He rejoices over me! It's easy to delight in God when you really know God. He's beyond good; he's the definition of awesome! There is so much to rejoice in about him and what he's done! But it's harder to really accept what he is telling me here--that he delights and rejoices in me. I know me. I'm just not that good. Why would a perfectly holy, infinitely loving God rejoice over me? What about me would captivate him?
For some reason we really want an answer to that question. And since we don't get one, we decide to doubt that it's true. It just seems more humble to beat ourselves up and downplay our standing with him. Some of us even make a strange sort of peace with being one of the black sheep of his family. It helps us justify our stubborn, rebellious choices or just our lack of enthusiasm about serving his mission. After all, he doesn't think much of me anyhow.
Oh but that's where we're wrong! Now, admittedly God isn't saying that he delights in and rejoices over everyone. In fact, in the context he is saying that after he takes his people through a hard period of discipline for their obstinate self-will and they repent and turn back to him, then he will delight in them and rejoice over them. Then he will renew and restore them to his favor. Then they will experience his blessing in major ways.
So the question is where is my heart with God? If I delight in him and rejoice in what he has done for me then it will lead me down a path where one thing I can know for certain is that he delights in me, too. Right now, in this very moment, God is celebrating me! It sounds conceited, doesn't it? But he said it, not me! I would never have thought he would feel that way about me, but he does.
My God, I feel undeserving of your delight, but I affirm what you have said to me here. Thank you so much for delighting in me just as I delight in you! It makes me feel so loved and honored to know this and to hear you say to me that you are rejoicing over me as I go through my days! Truly amazing, Lord! Immensely wonderful! With that truth in my heart I find myself loving to live for you! Amen.
Please share your thoughts and comments with us below! Sign in with your Google account first or just choose Anonymous from the drop-down list. Thank you!
Thursday, April 14, 2011
Utter Delight
Ready to hear from God today? Open your Bible up to Isaiah 61. Let's finish the chapter today with verses 8-11. It's short but sweet! Let God speak it into your heart as you read. This is what he is emphasizing to me:
I delight greatly in the LORD; my soul rejoices in my God (v. 10).
What do I delight in? Cowboys wins, gorgeous spring mornings, an unsolicited hug and a kiss from one of my children, a juicy, warm steak fresh off the grill, a great massage, surprising someone with a gift, getting a love letter . . . the list could go on and on (and not necessarily in that order). I delight in a lot of things, but there is nothing that can bring me more delight that God himself!
Growing up, I was around believers in God all the time. I was with them in church services, at cookouts, one on one. I witnessed a lot of worship offered to God. I saw a lot of respect given God. I heard countless prayers prayed to God. But I don't remember many times that I was struck by how much someone delighted in God. For someone to really, genuinely, from the heart just express an overflowing joy in their relationship with God was a rare moment. I wonder why that is?
I wondered about it a lot in my later teens and early twenties. I didn't want to center my life around something that was cold, austere, monotonous, obligatory, reserved, half-hearted....in short, lifeless. I wanted to live large, to celebrate life, to find something I could really delight in! Nothing less than that was going to satisfy. And I wasn't going to waste the limited years I have in this life just dutifully enduring, merely existing. I wanted to live.
Then one day I discovered what I had been missing--the thing I was searching for was God all along! I made some new friends who absolutely delighted in God, his grace, his goodness, his awesome presence in their lives!They were alive in God. It wasn't fear or duty that drove them; it was pure love. They didn't keep a checklist. They didn't feel the need to judge everyone else. They left that to God and just celebrated everything he had done for them and all that they anticipated him doing. And they served him out of that delight. I was never the same.
Why should I delight in God? The text goes on to say because he has treated me with special honor, like a bride and a groom feel on their wedding day! He has focused his affection, his attention and his blessing on me. Me? Yes, me. He turns my heart and my character from a weed patch to a flower garden (v. 11). Knowing him, loving him, being loved by him and led by him brings all varieties of brilliant colors bursting forth from my life!
God, I do so delight in you! As much as I delight in your blessings, I delight in you more! Thank you for inviting me to bask in your love and goodness and to find that you are very best of all that life offers me. In fact, you are the very source of it all. Amen.
Let us hear your thoughts and impressions! Please comment below. (Sign into your Google account first, or just select Anonymous from the list.)
I delight greatly in the LORD; my soul rejoices in my God (v. 10).
What do I delight in? Cowboys wins, gorgeous spring mornings, an unsolicited hug and a kiss from one of my children, a juicy, warm steak fresh off the grill, a great massage, surprising someone with a gift, getting a love letter . . . the list could go on and on (and not necessarily in that order). I delight in a lot of things, but there is nothing that can bring me more delight that God himself!
Growing up, I was around believers in God all the time. I was with them in church services, at cookouts, one on one. I witnessed a lot of worship offered to God. I saw a lot of respect given God. I heard countless prayers prayed to God. But I don't remember many times that I was struck by how much someone delighted in God. For someone to really, genuinely, from the heart just express an overflowing joy in their relationship with God was a rare moment. I wonder why that is?
I wondered about it a lot in my later teens and early twenties. I didn't want to center my life around something that was cold, austere, monotonous, obligatory, reserved, half-hearted....in short, lifeless. I wanted to live large, to celebrate life, to find something I could really delight in! Nothing less than that was going to satisfy. And I wasn't going to waste the limited years I have in this life just dutifully enduring, merely existing. I wanted to live.
Then one day I discovered what I had been missing--the thing I was searching for was God all along! I made some new friends who absolutely delighted in God, his grace, his goodness, his awesome presence in their lives!They were alive in God. It wasn't fear or duty that drove them; it was pure love. They didn't keep a checklist. They didn't feel the need to judge everyone else. They left that to God and just celebrated everything he had done for them and all that they anticipated him doing. And they served him out of that delight. I was never the same.
Why should I delight in God? The text goes on to say because he has treated me with special honor, like a bride and a groom feel on their wedding day! He has focused his affection, his attention and his blessing on me. Me? Yes, me. He turns my heart and my character from a weed patch to a flower garden (v. 11). Knowing him, loving him, being loved by him and led by him brings all varieties of brilliant colors bursting forth from my life!
God, I do so delight in you! As much as I delight in your blessings, I delight in you more! Thank you for inviting me to bask in your love and goodness and to find that you are very best of all that life offers me. In fact, you are the very source of it all. Amen.
Let us hear your thoughts and impressions! Please comment below. (Sign into your Google account first, or just select Anonymous from the list.)
Wednesday, April 13, 2011
Are You Coming to Your Party?
Isn't spring wonderful? The feeling of new life is in the air! God is faithfully transitioning us out of the cold, barren months of winter and renewing and reenergizing us! That reality is the subject of Isaiah 61. I'm sitting in on verses 1 through 7 today, soaking in what God is saying. What do you hear? If you can, take a few minutes to write it down so that you can reflect back on it later. For me . . .
The Spirit of the sovereign LORD is on me . . . to bestow on them a crown of beauty instead of ashes, the oil of gladness instead of mourning, and a garment of praise instead of a spirit of despair. (v. 1, 3)
God, you are one who lifts up the fallen. You are the God who brings new joy out of deepest grief, who turns our seasons of despair into powerful testimonies of praise for your deliverance!
This is the Lord I serve. I have no need to despair. If I am living with "a spirit of despair" I am outside God's will for my life. Jesus has come to take away that spirit of despair and replace it with a new look for a brand new me. He refers to it as "a garment of praise." To go along with that he's giving me a crown to wear--"a crown of beauty" that finds its source in my relationship with him. And then he wants to anoint my head with "the oil of gladness." Today that sounds like it would make for some seriously greasy hair! In their arid climate it was like a spa treatment. It was a sensory experience of feeling God's favor poured out on their heads, a sign that a big party was in progress in their honor.
That's the new wardrobe he's giving me to wear to the party he's throwing for me! Dark and anxious days are part of life, yet the true God specializes in turn-arounds. Even through death he promises resurrection! His ultimate plans for me are not for despair but for celebration! It's such an honor, almighty God, that you would have my well-being so high on your list of priorities. I'm going to live in your joy today! Amen.
Your comments and insights add so much to the blog! Please join in the conversation below. (First sign into Google or just choose Anonymous from the drop-down list.)
The Spirit of the sovereign LORD is on me . . . to bestow on them a crown of beauty instead of ashes, the oil of gladness instead of mourning, and a garment of praise instead of a spirit of despair. (v. 1, 3)
God, you are one who lifts up the fallen. You are the God who brings new joy out of deepest grief, who turns our seasons of despair into powerful testimonies of praise for your deliverance!
This is the Lord I serve. I have no need to despair. If I am living with "a spirit of despair" I am outside God's will for my life. Jesus has come to take away that spirit of despair and replace it with a new look for a brand new me. He refers to it as "a garment of praise." To go along with that he's giving me a crown to wear--"a crown of beauty" that finds its source in my relationship with him. And then he wants to anoint my head with "the oil of gladness." Today that sounds like it would make for some seriously greasy hair! In their arid climate it was like a spa treatment. It was a sensory experience of feeling God's favor poured out on their heads, a sign that a big party was in progress in their honor.
That's the new wardrobe he's giving me to wear to the party he's throwing for me! Dark and anxious days are part of life, yet the true God specializes in turn-arounds. Even through death he promises resurrection! His ultimate plans for me are not for despair but for celebration! It's such an honor, almighty God, that you would have my well-being so high on your list of priorities. I'm going to live in your joy today! Amen.
Your comments and insights add so much to the blog! Please join in the conversation below. (First sign into Google or just choose Anonymous from the drop-down list.)
Tuesday, April 12, 2011
Done With Dog Days
God, you are so good to me! Thank you for speaking into my heart and life. Your word is such an incredible blessing by the way it brings your thoughts into my mind.
I'm reading Isaiah 60:15-22 today. Why don't you take a couple of minutes to read it through, preferably more than once. Let the Holy Spirit personalize what he has inspired to be written. Here's what I find God emphasizing to me:
Your sun will never set again, and your moon will wane no more; the LORD will be your everlasting light, and your days of sorrow will end. (v. 20).
These words bring me so much hope. They are spoken out of the dark periods of life when it feels like there's nothing but despair. God reminds me that he's far from done with me, far from done with his people. This prophecy has at least two main points of reference. One is to God's promise that as hopeless as life can seem at times, the sun will come out again. Jerusalem would be destroyed by the Babylonians but the bleakness of the exile wouldn't last forever. Restoration was coming! And in my own life the same promise holds true.
In 2009 while I was rocked by Cathy's fight with cancer this verse spoke encouragement to me. My life was peppered with sad and anxiety-filled days. God promised me through this verse that they wouldn't last forever. The dark alley would have an end. And so it has. His promise has been kept! He has brought the sunshine back into my life. He has turned my sorrow into joy!
But there is another point of reference here. This current life is always going to have its ups and downs, it's sunny times and its rainstorms. But God is pointing ahead to a time coming for us all when days of sorrow have made their very last appearance. I am so excited by the thought that in Heaven and the New Earth eternal happiness are coming my way! So my hope is ultimately there. It's where I'm headed. And no one and nothing rob me of my place by God's side. Thank you, Father! I'm rejoicing in you!
Please share your thoughts by commenting below!
I'm reading Isaiah 60:15-22 today. Why don't you take a couple of minutes to read it through, preferably more than once. Let the Holy Spirit personalize what he has inspired to be written. Here's what I find God emphasizing to me:
Your sun will never set again, and your moon will wane no more; the LORD will be your everlasting light, and your days of sorrow will end. (v. 20).
These words bring me so much hope. They are spoken out of the dark periods of life when it feels like there's nothing but despair. God reminds me that he's far from done with me, far from done with his people. This prophecy has at least two main points of reference. One is to God's promise that as hopeless as life can seem at times, the sun will come out again. Jerusalem would be destroyed by the Babylonians but the bleakness of the exile wouldn't last forever. Restoration was coming! And in my own life the same promise holds true.
In 2009 while I was rocked by Cathy's fight with cancer this verse spoke encouragement to me. My life was peppered with sad and anxiety-filled days. God promised me through this verse that they wouldn't last forever. The dark alley would have an end. And so it has. His promise has been kept! He has brought the sunshine back into my life. He has turned my sorrow into joy!
But there is another point of reference here. This current life is always going to have its ups and downs, it's sunny times and its rainstorms. But God is pointing ahead to a time coming for us all when days of sorrow have made their very last appearance. I am so excited by the thought that in Heaven and the New Earth eternal happiness are coming my way! So my hope is ultimately there. It's where I'm headed. And no one and nothing rob me of my place by God's side. Thank you, Father! I'm rejoicing in you!
Please share your thoughts by commenting below!
Monday, April 11, 2011
Rise and Shine
I'm back, boys and girls! Thursday and Friday of last week I was on a trip and was unable to do my blog. I should have informed you of that in advance, so please accept my apologies.
I wonder as you woke up this morning, perhaps to an alarm clock, were you anticipating the day? After all, it is Monday, and there's all kinds of bad news to tune into--more earthquakes, war, radiation leakage, soaring gas prices, massive budget cuts. Maybe a word from God will help. Join me in reading and listening to him in Isaiah 60:1-14.
It's the first two verses that really speak to me today:
Arise, shine, for your light has come, and the glory of the LORD rises upon you. See, darkness covers the earth and thick darkness is over the peoples, but the LORD rises upon you and his glory appears over you.
I can dwell on the darkness around me, the bleakness of the world scene, the trouble that is seemingly at every hand, but if I did I would miss something amazing--the glory of God shining on me! There has always been trouble of one sort or another going on in the world. It isn't hard to find. I don't have to look far to find something to be discouraged about. But to be happy I need to have sharper vision.
Because of God's presence in my life, it is full of light! Right now it's like its brilliance is blinding! Sometimes it's difficult to see because of the dark clouds that show up in my life's sky. But God's glory is nevertheless shining on me, hovering over me. Because of my trust in him, his light is light is basking around me, about to be revealed, and when it breaks through the darkness it is nothing short of awesome!
God is encouraging me today. Sure, there is plenty of darkness out there. I don't need to be blind to that. God even points it out himself. Darkness has settled over the peoples of the world. I won't find much real deep-down joy or much focused hope out there. But there is something else to see--things are different in the case of anyone whose hope is the LORD.
Our God, Yahweh, is with us! He's telling me to rise and shine! My vision is clear. My heart is open. My future is secure, and it will be glorious! Even right now at this very moment my life is so very different, so much better because my God is renewing and empowering me, blessing and leading me. It's Monday, and it's a great time to get up and shine! Thank you, God, for how amazing you are!
Please talk to us about what God is impressing on you in this text. Your reflections are very valuable! Comment below (sign into your Google account first or choose Anonymous from the drop-down menu).
I wonder as you woke up this morning, perhaps to an alarm clock, were you anticipating the day? After all, it is Monday, and there's all kinds of bad news to tune into--more earthquakes, war, radiation leakage, soaring gas prices, massive budget cuts. Maybe a word from God will help. Join me in reading and listening to him in Isaiah 60:1-14.
It's the first two verses that really speak to me today:
Arise, shine, for your light has come, and the glory of the LORD rises upon you. See, darkness covers the earth and thick darkness is over the peoples, but the LORD rises upon you and his glory appears over you.
I can dwell on the darkness around me, the bleakness of the world scene, the trouble that is seemingly at every hand, but if I did I would miss something amazing--the glory of God shining on me! There has always been trouble of one sort or another going on in the world. It isn't hard to find. I don't have to look far to find something to be discouraged about. But to be happy I need to have sharper vision.
Because of God's presence in my life, it is full of light! Right now it's like its brilliance is blinding! Sometimes it's difficult to see because of the dark clouds that show up in my life's sky. But God's glory is nevertheless shining on me, hovering over me. Because of my trust in him, his light is light is basking around me, about to be revealed, and when it breaks through the darkness it is nothing short of awesome!
God is encouraging me today. Sure, there is plenty of darkness out there. I don't need to be blind to that. God even points it out himself. Darkness has settled over the peoples of the world. I won't find much real deep-down joy or much focused hope out there. But there is something else to see--things are different in the case of anyone whose hope is the LORD.
Our God, Yahweh, is with us! He's telling me to rise and shine! My vision is clear. My heart is open. My future is secure, and it will be glorious! Even right now at this very moment my life is so very different, so much better because my God is renewing and empowering me, blessing and leading me. It's Monday, and it's a great time to get up and shine! Thank you, God, for how amazing you are!
Please talk to us about what God is impressing on you in this text. Your reflections are very valuable! Comment below (sign into your Google account first or choose Anonymous from the drop-down menu).
Wednesday, April 6, 2011
Worth Saying
Today's weather is simply gorgeous! And I'm so ready for a word from God. I'm reading Isaiah 59:14-22. Why don't you join me? This is what is grabbing my attention . . .
"My Spirit, who is on you, and my words that I have put in your mouth will not depart from your mouth, or from the mouths of your children . . . from this time on and forever," says the LORD. (v. 21)
This blog is all about listening to God's voice and receiving his thoughts to guide and enrich our lives. But this statement reminds me that listening to his voice, receiving his word into my heart, is only part of the dynamic activity of his word in my life. He wants me to speak it too. He wants me to share what I'm hearing, beginning with my own family. God's Words are for knowing, obeying and then speaking. He wants to hear them on my lips.
There are any number of ways that I might do that. One is discussing the spiritual insights or questions that I have with people in my life. Or simply referring to something from Scripture that I'm reminded of. It can happen through planned times of reading Scripture aloud together. In my prayers I can reflect back to God things that he has said, affirming them or claiming them for my life. When someone is struggling, I can share with them one of God's many promises of comfort, help or guidance. If someone is happy about good things that are happening in their life, I can remind them that God is the giver of all of those good gifts and remark about how much he has blessed them. I can memorize them. I can teach them to my children. I can even preach them . . . well, some of us can anyway.
God, may your words be in my heart and mind but also in my mouth. I know that nothing I can say would ever be more truthful and potentially life-touching than something you have said in your living Word. Use my mouth, Lord, it is yours. I sometimes find it full of anything but your Word. Forgive me! Set a guard around my mouth so that I won't say anything that you wouldn't want me to say. But instead of just focuing on what I shouldn't be saying I know you want me to replace it with what I should be communicating. I want my words to bring life, not pain, to the people around me, starting with those closest to me--my children, my family.
Please share your comments below!
"My Spirit, who is on you, and my words that I have put in your mouth will not depart from your mouth, or from the mouths of your children . . . from this time on and forever," says the LORD. (v. 21)
This blog is all about listening to God's voice and receiving his thoughts to guide and enrich our lives. But this statement reminds me that listening to his voice, receiving his word into my heart, is only part of the dynamic activity of his word in my life. He wants me to speak it too. He wants me to share what I'm hearing, beginning with my own family. God's Words are for knowing, obeying and then speaking. He wants to hear them on my lips.
There are any number of ways that I might do that. One is discussing the spiritual insights or questions that I have with people in my life. Or simply referring to something from Scripture that I'm reminded of. It can happen through planned times of reading Scripture aloud together. In my prayers I can reflect back to God things that he has said, affirming them or claiming them for my life. When someone is struggling, I can share with them one of God's many promises of comfort, help or guidance. If someone is happy about good things that are happening in their life, I can remind them that God is the giver of all of those good gifts and remark about how much he has blessed them. I can memorize them. I can teach them to my children. I can even preach them . . . well, some of us can anyway.
God, may your words be in my heart and mind but also in my mouth. I know that nothing I can say would ever be more truthful and potentially life-touching than something you have said in your living Word. Use my mouth, Lord, it is yours. I sometimes find it full of anything but your Word. Forgive me! Set a guard around my mouth so that I won't say anything that you wouldn't want me to say. But instead of just focuing on what I shouldn't be saying I know you want me to replace it with what I should be communicating. I want my words to bring life, not pain, to the people around me, starting with those closest to me--my children, my family.
Please share your comments below!
Tuesday, April 5, 2011
Peacemaker
Today I'm inviting you to join me as we listen to God speak through Isaiah 59:1-13. This passage may convict you personally or it may make you feel for the people around you, the masses who need Jesus so desperately. What are you hearing?
Their thoughts are evil thoughts; ruin and destruction mark their ways. The way of peace they do not know. (v. 7-8)
We humans are a sad lot. We think by asserting our own desires above God, doing whatever we want, that we will get the good life. We're consistenly attracted to evil. Our community is filled with people going their way, so oblivious to the place their choices are leading them. When we go recklessly down that path, what do we get? Ruined relationships, deep disappointment, broken hearts, diseases bodies, corrupted thinking, and lots of worry and frustration. A strong sense of inner peace, peace with God and peace with other people is in pretty short supply in America today, and the world as a whole.
Yet God can and will give us a new start. If only we would learn to trust him! And once we have given our lives to him we have got to look around us and see who we introduce to the peace we have found. People need Jesus! They will never find the good life and real peace without him. God, I know you want me to be deeply impressed with that fact. You want me to long for others to know you and the peace you bring. But it's more than wanting it for them. It's reaching out to them. It's taking the time to get to know them, to invest in their lives. And it's finding those natural moments to put in a word for you about the difference you make in my life and asking thoughtful questions to help get them thinking about their own. So I am a tool in your hand today, Lord. Direct me to the people you want me to touch and give me enough love for them to not just go on my busy way. Make me a peacemaker in this most important sense--someone who helps others find peace with you. Amen.
Please share your thoughts and impressions on what God is saying to you in this text! Log into your Google account first or just select Anonymous from the drop-down men below. Go ahead!
Their thoughts are evil thoughts; ruin and destruction mark their ways. The way of peace they do not know. (v. 7-8)
We humans are a sad lot. We think by asserting our own desires above God, doing whatever we want, that we will get the good life. We're consistenly attracted to evil. Our community is filled with people going their way, so oblivious to the place their choices are leading them. When we go recklessly down that path, what do we get? Ruined relationships, deep disappointment, broken hearts, diseases bodies, corrupted thinking, and lots of worry and frustration. A strong sense of inner peace, peace with God and peace with other people is in pretty short supply in America today, and the world as a whole.
Yet God can and will give us a new start. If only we would learn to trust him! And once we have given our lives to him we have got to look around us and see who we introduce to the peace we have found. People need Jesus! They will never find the good life and real peace without him. God, I know you want me to be deeply impressed with that fact. You want me to long for others to know you and the peace you bring. But it's more than wanting it for them. It's reaching out to them. It's taking the time to get to know them, to invest in their lives. And it's finding those natural moments to put in a word for you about the difference you make in my life and asking thoughtful questions to help get them thinking about their own. So I am a tool in your hand today, Lord. Direct me to the people you want me to touch and give me enough love for them to not just go on my busy way. Make me a peacemaker in this most important sense--someone who helps others find peace with you. Amen.
Please share your thoughts and impressions on what God is saying to you in this text! Log into your Google account first or just select Anonymous from the drop-down men below. Go ahead!
Monday, April 4, 2011
Bringers of Hope
God's hands are so full of good things to pour into my life and yours! And he gives the best of those things to people whose hearts really resonate with his own, who live in step with him. Let's listen to what he has to say to us in Isaiah 58 on this Monday. If you spent part of the day yesterday in worship and prayer, this message will be especially challenging. It's just 14 short verses, so take the time to read.
Is this the kind of fast I have chosen, only a day for a man to humble himself? Is it only for bowing one's head like a reed ? . . . If you spend yourselves on behalf of the hungry and satisfy the needs of the oppressed, then your light will rise in the darkness. . . . The LORD will guide you always; he will satisfy your needs . . . (v. 5, 10-11)
Sometimes we believers become worship addicts. We love to just soak in praise and worship and spend time in prayer. On Mondays we're already craving next Sunday! We go from one inspirational worship experience to another. We even carry them with us on our iPods and iPhones and iPads.
Worship isn't the only way to be filled up by God. There is a connection between how active I am in meeting the needs of others, especially the poor and powerless, and the extent to which God meets my own needs (read the verses above again). God delights in the love I offer him in my praise. He is eager to listen to my prayers and takes note of my fasting when I'm intensely seeking his blessing. But there needs to be some practical outcomes from my worship. It should motivate me to live a life of love and service to others, as Jesus did. I cannot love God and not serve people that he loves, particularly those who are in need and unable to help themselves. Would they testify to the fact that iServe?
At the very root of most of the world's poverty is a profound sense of hopelessness. That is something that I have never really experienced. I have grown up believing that good will come. Even in the worst of times I have been encouraged by the conviction that something better lies just down the road. It is not like that for the world's impoverished masses. They live with absolutely no anticipation that a break is coming their way. It is my privilege and duty to help them discover hope--a hope that comes from knowing God.
In doing that, there is an even greater hope for my own future! For when I meet the real needs of others God promises to meet my needs as well.
By the way, our church has an open slot (maybe two) for our week-long mission trip to Guatemala in October of this year to build a water well for a community that doesn't even have access to safe, clean drinking water. I can't wait to satisfy such a great need for these oppressed people! If you're interested, contact us at info@onelifeonline.org. Now, please post your comments on what God is saying to you through this chapter . . .
Is this the kind of fast I have chosen, only a day for a man to humble himself? Is it only for bowing one's head like a reed ? . . . If you spend yourselves on behalf of the hungry and satisfy the needs of the oppressed, then your light will rise in the darkness. . . . The LORD will guide you always; he will satisfy your needs . . . (v. 5, 10-11)
Sometimes we believers become worship addicts. We love to just soak in praise and worship and spend time in prayer. On Mondays we're already craving next Sunday! We go from one inspirational worship experience to another. We even carry them with us on our iPods and iPhones and iPads.
Worship isn't the only way to be filled up by God. There is a connection between how active I am in meeting the needs of others, especially the poor and powerless, and the extent to which God meets my own needs (read the verses above again). God delights in the love I offer him in my praise. He is eager to listen to my prayers and takes note of my fasting when I'm intensely seeking his blessing. But there needs to be some practical outcomes from my worship. It should motivate me to live a life of love and service to others, as Jesus did. I cannot love God and not serve people that he loves, particularly those who are in need and unable to help themselves. Would they testify to the fact that iServe?
At the very root of most of the world's poverty is a profound sense of hopelessness. That is something that I have never really experienced. I have grown up believing that good will come. Even in the worst of times I have been encouraged by the conviction that something better lies just down the road. It is not like that for the world's impoverished masses. They live with absolutely no anticipation that a break is coming their way. It is my privilege and duty to help them discover hope--a hope that comes from knowing God.
In doing that, there is an even greater hope for my own future! For when I meet the real needs of others God promises to meet my needs as well.
By the way, our church has an open slot (maybe two) for our week-long mission trip to Guatemala in October of this year to build a water well for a community that doesn't even have access to safe, clean drinking water. I can't wait to satisfy such a great need for these oppressed people! If you're interested, contact us at info@onelifeonline.org. Now, please post your comments on what God is saying to you through this chapter . . .
Friday, April 1, 2011
A Heart to Be Led
Today's God-thoughts come from Isaiah 57:14-21. Such a contrast between his tone here and the tone of the previous verses! This is such a great promise! What are you hearing here?
God: "I live in a high and holy place, but also with him who is contrite and lowly in spirit, to revive the spirit of the lowly. . . . I have seen his ways, but I will heal him; I will guide him and restore comfort to him. . ." (v. 15, 18)
The healing God promises here is so real and miraculous! The grace of God is amazing! What especially jumps out at me right now is his promise to guide me in my life journey. I will receive God's guidance if my heart is open and truly seeking his will.
This can be a nebulous concept, and one of the more difficult things about God to experience. There isn't any magic formula to listening for God's voice. The role I have is to humble myself and invite him to tell me whatever I need to hear. His written Word provides the framework and the principles. His Holy Spirit provides the inner leading to personalize it to my own life and circumstances. The variable that I control is whether I have a real heart to know and do God's will. Am I teachable? Is my will really surrendered and submitted to his? Do I realize how I've messed things up when I've asserted my own will in the past? And, of course, do I take the time to listen?
God doesn't usually speak to us out of burning bushes. Receiving his guidance isn't about erasing your mind and expecting him to just download everything I need to know. Receiving his guidance is a partnership, using the mind he blessed me with but decisively putting it under the Holy Spirit's guidance. When I do that, it's often hard to distinguish between what are my own thoughts and what are his. But that is because through my submitted heart, the two have become one. He will help me shape my thoughts and my evaluations of the alternatives before me.
And then there are other times when I know that it's his guidance because he's telling me to do something I would never choose to do on my own volition. In Scripture, God's guidance to the people we read about was very often not what they would have thought of or desired. He loves to stretch our faith and build our character!
Heavenly Father, I surrender my will to yours. I know that you are far wiser than me, powerful enough to accomplish whatever your will is, and that you have my good and the good of others as your agenda. Please guide me. Please lead me forward. Let every step I take be aligned with your desires for me. Amen.
Please share your thoughts on this great piece of God's conversation with us! Either sign in with your Google account first or just choose Anonymous from the drop-down menu below.
God: "I live in a high and holy place, but also with him who is contrite and lowly in spirit, to revive the spirit of the lowly. . . . I have seen his ways, but I will heal him; I will guide him and restore comfort to him. . ." (v. 15, 18)
The healing God promises here is so real and miraculous! The grace of God is amazing! What especially jumps out at me right now is his promise to guide me in my life journey. I will receive God's guidance if my heart is open and truly seeking his will.
This can be a nebulous concept, and one of the more difficult things about God to experience. There isn't any magic formula to listening for God's voice. The role I have is to humble myself and invite him to tell me whatever I need to hear. His written Word provides the framework and the principles. His Holy Spirit provides the inner leading to personalize it to my own life and circumstances. The variable that I control is whether I have a real heart to know and do God's will. Am I teachable? Is my will really surrendered and submitted to his? Do I realize how I've messed things up when I've asserted my own will in the past? And, of course, do I take the time to listen?
God doesn't usually speak to us out of burning bushes. Receiving his guidance isn't about erasing your mind and expecting him to just download everything I need to know. Receiving his guidance is a partnership, using the mind he blessed me with but decisively putting it under the Holy Spirit's guidance. When I do that, it's often hard to distinguish between what are my own thoughts and what are his. But that is because through my submitted heart, the two have become one. He will help me shape my thoughts and my evaluations of the alternatives before me.
And then there are other times when I know that it's his guidance because he's telling me to do something I would never choose to do on my own volition. In Scripture, God's guidance to the people we read about was very often not what they would have thought of or desired. He loves to stretch our faith and build our character!
Heavenly Father, I surrender my will to yours. I know that you are far wiser than me, powerful enough to accomplish whatever your will is, and that you have my good and the good of others as your agenda. Please guide me. Please lead me forward. Let every step I take be aligned with your desires for me. Amen.
Please share your thoughts on this great piece of God's conversation with us! Either sign in with your Google account first or just choose Anonymous from the drop-down menu below.
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