Hello to all of you! Wow, it has been a very busy couple of weeks full of major transition for me and my family. We are somewhat settled in Peoria now, although most of our belongings are still in storage, awaiting our moving to a more long-term housing situation. Thank you for your patience during this time. I intend to restart the blog with regularity as the opportunity presents itself. There is still a lot of household business that requires my attention at this time.
For now, I'm homeschooling the kids. I intend to do this through the end of the semester...that is, if I don't lose my sanity first! No, they are great students. It just requires a lot of time figuring out what to have them work on. My mom was here with us for the first week and was a great help.
We had our first worship time together at our new church yesterday! It's called Richwoods Christian Church. I started work with them last week. Right now I'm working just half-time overseeing their home-based small groups ministry. There are 24 groups, if I remember correctly. Each has a leader, and there are several coaches who each mentor a number of leaders. I will be supporting the coaches primarily and orchestrating the big picture. Please pray for me in this role that I will be effective and insightful and faithful.
I haven't yet determined what I will be doing to supplement my income. That is a big concern for me right now, and I also need your prayers for that.
It is great being here with Michele and getting to spend time with her on a daily basis! God has blessed me with her love. The kids are doing well and adapting nicely, though missing their friends. My house is up for lease now and Michele's is still up for sale. They are both needing some new people who would like to live and love beneath their roofs.
Even though the blogging may be scarce for a while, I hope that you keep up your conversations with God by staying in his Word. He has so many things to reveal to you there! May he bless you and guide you today.
Monday, March 26, 2012
Wednesday, March 14, 2012
Take All Things to God
Good morning to all and happy Wednesday! Please join me today as we continue in 2 Samuel. Please read verses 2:1-3:1. There's lots of great info here but I'm going to focus on the beginning of the chapter this morning.
This is what jumps out at me as I read:
After this, David asked the LORD, "Should I move back to one of the towns of Judah?"
"Yes", the LORD replied.
Then David asked, "Which town should I go to?"
"To Hebron", the LORD answered. (v.1)
Now that Saul was dead David knew that he would be crowned king of his home territory but he didn't just automatically move to Judah. No, Lord, instead David consulted you first. At this time in his life it seems as if he didn't do much without coming to you first. David counted on you to guide his every step and he wanted to make sure he was in your will.
In reading this verse it appears as if you instantly verbally answered David without him having to wait for you to answer. I can't help but think of the many times that waiting has been in your plan for me. Did you really just instantly answer David or was there some waiting involved that we don't know about? For me it's hard to tell. And, did he truly audibly hear your answer? There are many times I've wished you would literally speak to me so I know, without a doubt, what you're saying to me. Lord, you aren't limited in the ways you speak to your children and you certainly could make your voice audibly heard if you so chose. This conversation seems so simple as I read this verse. Maybe David was just so in tune to your voice due to his deep relationship with you. Maybe he chose to trust you completely and not listen to the many other voices in his life. This is one thing that the Bible isn't always clear on. The one thing that is very clear, Lord, is that David knew what you wanted from him and he followed.
And the anointing that occurred privately so many years ago came true publicly as a result.
Then the men of Judah came to David and crowned him king over the people of Judah. (v. 4)
All because he came to you, Lord, for guidance and chose to be obedient.
Please share any feedback that you have with us. We would love to hear from you!
This is what jumps out at me as I read:
After this, David asked the LORD, "Should I move back to one of the towns of Judah?"
"Yes", the LORD replied.
Then David asked, "Which town should I go to?"
"To Hebron", the LORD answered. (v.1)
Now that Saul was dead David knew that he would be crowned king of his home territory but he didn't just automatically move to Judah. No, Lord, instead David consulted you first. At this time in his life it seems as if he didn't do much without coming to you first. David counted on you to guide his every step and he wanted to make sure he was in your will.
In reading this verse it appears as if you instantly verbally answered David without him having to wait for you to answer. I can't help but think of the many times that waiting has been in your plan for me. Did you really just instantly answer David or was there some waiting involved that we don't know about? For me it's hard to tell. And, did he truly audibly hear your answer? There are many times I've wished you would literally speak to me so I know, without a doubt, what you're saying to me. Lord, you aren't limited in the ways you speak to your children and you certainly could make your voice audibly heard if you so chose. This conversation seems so simple as I read this verse. Maybe David was just so in tune to your voice due to his deep relationship with you. Maybe he chose to trust you completely and not listen to the many other voices in his life. This is one thing that the Bible isn't always clear on. The one thing that is very clear, Lord, is that David knew what you wanted from him and he followed.
And the anointing that occurred privately so many years ago came true publicly as a result.
Then the men of Judah came to David and crowned him king over the people of Judah. (v. 4)
All because he came to you, Lord, for guidance and chose to be obedient.
Please share any feedback that you have with us. We would love to hear from you!
Tuesday, March 13, 2012
A Different Kind of Character
Good morning. I woke this morning to the sound of the birds chirping. Such a beautiful sound and evidence that spring is here!! Are you ready to hear from God today? I am. I, Michele, will be writing today and tomorrow for you as Chris continues getting ready for the move. Today we are moving forward into the first chapter of 2 Samuel. The story continues after Saul's death.
Keep in mind as you read this chapter how Saul had died by taking his own life (1Samuel 31:3,4). In the beginning of this chapter David has no idea that Saul is dead until a man from Saul's camp comes to inform him. But, he has a different story to tell about how Saul died. He lies because he wants to get praise from David for killing Saul. Little does he know that David has a different kind of character than he suspects. And this is actually how David responds:
"Why were you not afraid to kill the LORD'S anointed one?" David asked.
Then David said to one of the men, "Kill him!" So the man thrust his sword into the Amalekite and killed him. "You have condemned yourself," David said, "for you yourself confessed that you killed the LORD'S anointed one." (v. 14-16)
Certainly NOT what the Amalekite expected from David! It doesn't make sense does it? Saul had been David's enemy for a very long time and he isn't jumping for joy that he's dead?? But, it wasn't about Saul for David. It was all about God. David may not have had a lot of respect for Saul but he had an amazing amount of respect for God. After all, God had anointed Saul and saw him fit to be king. Who was David to dispute that? So David respected Saul as the king. Keep in mind that David had many opportunities to end Saul's life himself and chose not to. Such a contrast in character between David and the Amalekite man.
This is what it looks like to put God first in our hearts. Even when David's greatest enemy died and it looks as if he had come out on top, he didn't gloat. David continued to show respect for Saul as king because of his relationship with the true king. What an example for us to follow. Our allegiance should be always to God first regardless of the situation or who has authority. We are called to honor those who God has given authority to and David did just that. And ultimately David was blessed.
God, I want to follow David's example. I want to let my enemies know that you hold the highest seat in my heart, not them. Please don't allow my heart to become full of the desire for revenge. I want my heart to be full of your Spirit. I will put you first and daily submit to your authority over me. I am yours! Amen.
Keep in mind as you read this chapter how Saul had died by taking his own life (1Samuel 31:3,4). In the beginning of this chapter David has no idea that Saul is dead until a man from Saul's camp comes to inform him. But, he has a different story to tell about how Saul died. He lies because he wants to get praise from David for killing Saul. Little does he know that David has a different kind of character than he suspects. And this is actually how David responds:
"Why were you not afraid to kill the LORD'S anointed one?" David asked.
Then David said to one of the men, "Kill him!" So the man thrust his sword into the Amalekite and killed him. "You have condemned yourself," David said, "for you yourself confessed that you killed the LORD'S anointed one." (v. 14-16)
Certainly NOT what the Amalekite expected from David! It doesn't make sense does it? Saul had been David's enemy for a very long time and he isn't jumping for joy that he's dead?? But, it wasn't about Saul for David. It was all about God. David may not have had a lot of respect for Saul but he had an amazing amount of respect for God. After all, God had anointed Saul and saw him fit to be king. Who was David to dispute that? So David respected Saul as the king. Keep in mind that David had many opportunities to end Saul's life himself and chose not to. Such a contrast in character between David and the Amalekite man.
This is what it looks like to put God first in our hearts. Even when David's greatest enemy died and it looks as if he had come out on top, he didn't gloat. David continued to show respect for Saul as king because of his relationship with the true king. What an example for us to follow. Our allegiance should be always to God first regardless of the situation or who has authority. We are called to honor those who God has given authority to and David did just that. And ultimately David was blessed.
God, I want to follow David's example. I want to let my enemies know that you hold the highest seat in my heart, not them. Please don't allow my heart to become full of the desire for revenge. I want my heart to be full of your Spirit. I will put you first and daily submit to your authority over me. I am yours! Amen.
Monday, March 12, 2012
To Obey or Not to Obey?
Happy Monday and welcome to a new week and the last chapter of 1 Samuel. Please read 1 Samuel 31. It's only 13 verses long. Saul's life has come to an end and we will learn how. Thank you for letting me, Michele, be with you this morning as we wrap up 1 Samuel.
I read this a couple of times and both times my focus remained on verse 4. This is what it says:
Saul groaned to his armor bearer, "Take your sword and kill me before these pagan Phillistines come to run me through and taunt and torture me."
But his armor bearer was afraid and would not do it. So Saul took his own sword and fell on it.
Why would Saul ask his armor bearer to kill him, Lord? It sounds as if Saul was trying to escape some sort of torture. I hear you telling me something about both Saul and his armor bearer in this verse. First of all, the armor bearer refused to kill Saul. Why? Saul was king and he should have obeyed, correct?? Not necessarily. The king was telling his armor bearer to do something that was morally wrong. When we are faced with moral dilemmas we always need to follow your ways regardless of who's giving the order. There is only one set of standards for moral issues and they are yours, God. So, the armor bearer made the right decision and chose your way, not Saul's. That time. Too bad he didn't continue on that same path. (v. 5)
Second of all, I hear you continuing to tell me about Saul's character, or lack there of. Saul was afraid of what the Phillistines may do to him if they got a hold of him so he opted for what he saw as an easier way out. He commanded his armor bearer to kill him in a "not so brutal" sort of way. Much to his dismay, his armor bearer chose not to follow through on Saul's command. So Saul decided to take matters into his own hands like he had done for much of his life. He didn't even turn to you, Lord, and ask for your guidance or direction. He did the next thing that would bring about the result he wanted and that was to kill himself. You may have chosen to help him if he just would have asked.
There are so many in this world who desperately need you but just don't get it. They think they can only count on themselves and ignore you, the God who spoke this world into existence. What a lonely and dark world we live in without you, Lord. And how do we face moral dilemmas if we don't understand your standards?
Help us, dear Lord, to take the higher road because, in the end, we will be on the right path. Give us hearts that only want to be obedient to you when we're given bad direction from someone in authority. You are the only judge and you will protect us when we do what's right. We want to be an example for those who don't know you so they will someday understand your ways and your love. Help them to see you when they see us. Amen.
Maybe this isn't the verse that spoke most to your heart. Maybe you have additional thoughts. Let us know! We would love to hear how this chapter spoke to each one of you. Have a blessed day and thank you for letting me spend another morning with you.
I read this a couple of times and both times my focus remained on verse 4. This is what it says:
Saul groaned to his armor bearer, "Take your sword and kill me before these pagan Phillistines come to run me through and taunt and torture me."
But his armor bearer was afraid and would not do it. So Saul took his own sword and fell on it.
Why would Saul ask his armor bearer to kill him, Lord? It sounds as if Saul was trying to escape some sort of torture. I hear you telling me something about both Saul and his armor bearer in this verse. First of all, the armor bearer refused to kill Saul. Why? Saul was king and he should have obeyed, correct?? Not necessarily. The king was telling his armor bearer to do something that was morally wrong. When we are faced with moral dilemmas we always need to follow your ways regardless of who's giving the order. There is only one set of standards for moral issues and they are yours, God. So, the armor bearer made the right decision and chose your way, not Saul's. That time. Too bad he didn't continue on that same path. (v. 5)
Second of all, I hear you continuing to tell me about Saul's character, or lack there of. Saul was afraid of what the Phillistines may do to him if they got a hold of him so he opted for what he saw as an easier way out. He commanded his armor bearer to kill him in a "not so brutal" sort of way. Much to his dismay, his armor bearer chose not to follow through on Saul's command. So Saul decided to take matters into his own hands like he had done for much of his life. He didn't even turn to you, Lord, and ask for your guidance or direction. He did the next thing that would bring about the result he wanted and that was to kill himself. You may have chosen to help him if he just would have asked.
There are so many in this world who desperately need you but just don't get it. They think they can only count on themselves and ignore you, the God who spoke this world into existence. What a lonely and dark world we live in without you, Lord. And how do we face moral dilemmas if we don't understand your standards?
Help us, dear Lord, to take the higher road because, in the end, we will be on the right path. Give us hearts that only want to be obedient to you when we're given bad direction from someone in authority. You are the only judge and you will protect us when we do what's right. We want to be an example for those who don't know you so they will someday understand your ways and your love. Help them to see you when they see us. Amen.
Maybe this isn't the verse that spoke most to your heart. Maybe you have additional thoughts. Let us know! We would love to hear how this chapter spoke to each one of you. Have a blessed day and thank you for letting me spend another morning with you.
Friday, March 9, 2012
Faith in Action
Happy Friday to all! Finally, the end of the week is here! I hope you all enjoy your weekend. This is Michele again today writing to you from 1 Samuel 30. Please take the time to read this thoroughly and ponder what you hear God impressing upon your heart. I'm really enjoying 1 Samuel, it's full of adventure and excitement.
In the last chapter David and his men were asked to go back to the land of the Phillistines. When they arrived at Ziklag they found that it had been completely destroyed by the Amelikites and they took all the women and children with them when they left. What an awful experience that must have been for David and his men. David's men decided that this must be his fault and turned on him. They needed someone to blame. I love David's response here, Lord!
....But David found strength in the Lord his God. (v. 6)
It gives me chills to think about this man being threatened to be stoned and he seems unshaken by the threats. God, David knew you and trusted in your ability to protect and strengthen him. He knew exactly who to turn to. Not only did David believe that you would strengthen him, he also knew that you would guide him into action. So, he immediately turned to you and asked for your guidance.
Then he said to Abiathar the priest, "Bring me the ephod!" So Abiathar brought it. Then David asked the Lord, "Should I chase after this band of raiders? Will I catch them?"
And the Lord told him, "Yes, go after them. You will surely recover everything that was taken from you!" (v. 7-8)
And, that's exactly what happened! As I continue to read, I find that David and his men were able to recover all that was taken from them just as you said they would.
This is faith in action! How many times have I turned to the wrong source when things have gone wrong. Instead of immediately turning to you, I turn to other people or just simply worry. Nothing is impossible with you and you will show me what steps need to be taken, if any. If I truly lay my concerns at your feet and trust in your goodness and love for me, I will always come out victorious. That means giving up my control in all situations and, like David, give it to you, Lord. In your hands is the best place for my fears. In your hands is the best place for the situations that are way too big for me to handle alone. In your hands is the best place for my life! Thank you, Lord, for this reminder today and for speaking to me through David's life. Amen.
Please share with us any comments you may have. We love to hear from you and to know that you've been blessed by God's Word each day. Have a fabulous weekend!
In the last chapter David and his men were asked to go back to the land of the Phillistines. When they arrived at Ziklag they found that it had been completely destroyed by the Amelikites and they took all the women and children with them when they left. What an awful experience that must have been for David and his men. David's men decided that this must be his fault and turned on him. They needed someone to blame. I love David's response here, Lord!
....But David found strength in the Lord his God. (v. 6)
It gives me chills to think about this man being threatened to be stoned and he seems unshaken by the threats. God, David knew you and trusted in your ability to protect and strengthen him. He knew exactly who to turn to. Not only did David believe that you would strengthen him, he also knew that you would guide him into action. So, he immediately turned to you and asked for your guidance.
Then he said to Abiathar the priest, "Bring me the ephod!" So Abiathar brought it. Then David asked the Lord, "Should I chase after this band of raiders? Will I catch them?"
And the Lord told him, "Yes, go after them. You will surely recover everything that was taken from you!" (v. 7-8)
And, that's exactly what happened! As I continue to read, I find that David and his men were able to recover all that was taken from them just as you said they would.
This is faith in action! How many times have I turned to the wrong source when things have gone wrong. Instead of immediately turning to you, I turn to other people or just simply worry. Nothing is impossible with you and you will show me what steps need to be taken, if any. If I truly lay my concerns at your feet and trust in your goodness and love for me, I will always come out victorious. That means giving up my control in all situations and, like David, give it to you, Lord. In your hands is the best place for my fears. In your hands is the best place for the situations that are way too big for me to handle alone. In your hands is the best place for my life! Thank you, Lord, for this reminder today and for speaking to me through David's life. Amen.
Please share with us any comments you may have. We love to hear from you and to know that you've been blessed by God's Word each day. Have a fabulous weekend!
Thursday, March 8, 2012
No Way Out
To our loyal online community: Just a note to let you know that I am currently in the mode of moving from Texas to Illinois. So please bear with me as the blog will have to be a little inconsistent for a week or so as we cram to get everything packed in time and then get situated in our new place. We'll get it back to our normal frequency asap! In the meantime, continue your own private conversations with God.
Having just read through 1 Samuel 29, which is our text for today, I am thinking about what God is wanting to communicate to me through it. It's a very short chapter (11 verses). If you read my post on chapter 27 then you remember that David had run away to the Philistines for protection from King Saul. He had grown tired of the constant running and the many close-calls as he dodged his enemy. He had decided that it was safer among the enemies of God's people than to stay in Israel.
But then one day the Philistines decide to invade Israel and the king tells David that he is expected to join forces with them and fight against his own people. It was a classic case of "What's a guy like you doing in a place like this?" David was in between a rock and a hard place wondering how in the world he ever got himself into this mess. It was his own failure to keep trusting in God. Now what will he do--fight against God's covenant people or blow his cover as a friend of the Philistines? Either course seems like a death sentence.
I think I've been between a rock and a hard place a time or two. Sometimes you just end up in a no-win situation and either way you go, you're toast. It's a double-edged sword that cuts no matter which direction you swing it. Sometimes you get there through your own bad decisions, and other times you just get put in that position innocently. In either case, it's a stressful place to be!
But in today's reading, this is what impresses me:
So Achish [King of the Philistines] called David and said to him, "As surely as the LORD lives, you have been reliable, and I would be pleased to have you serve with me in the army. From the day you came to me until now, I have found no fault in you, but the rulers don't approve of you. Turn back and go in peace; do nothing to displease the Philistine rulers." (v. 6-7)
Whew! That was close! God is well aware of David's plight, it turns out. Even now he steps in and comes to David's aid. David had no way out of this, but God made a way. That's what I feel God is impressing on my heart today. When there seems to be no good way to turn, he will make a way that I don't even foresee. He is able to deliver me out of any bad situation or provide a way through it. God is bigger than any other power or person that may threaten me. I've experienced his deliverance first-hand more than once in my life. There were times when I thought my life was basically over. I couldn't see any positive way forward. And then God stepped in and worked things out in some totally surprising way. He does that kind of thing, you know!
Lord, I want to trust you implicitly. I am so thankful for your faithfulness even when I am unfaithful. You are my deliverer and the one who holds my life in your hand. When there appears to be nothing but dead-ends before me, I will pray and wait and trust you to open up the way. You are awesome, God! Amen.
Please share this post on Facebook! And share your comments below. Pray for us in our big transition! Thanks so much!
Having just read through 1 Samuel 29, which is our text for today, I am thinking about what God is wanting to communicate to me through it. It's a very short chapter (11 verses). If you read my post on chapter 27 then you remember that David had run away to the Philistines for protection from King Saul. He had grown tired of the constant running and the many close-calls as he dodged his enemy. He had decided that it was safer among the enemies of God's people than to stay in Israel.
But then one day the Philistines decide to invade Israel and the king tells David that he is expected to join forces with them and fight against his own people. It was a classic case of "What's a guy like you doing in a place like this?" David was in between a rock and a hard place wondering how in the world he ever got himself into this mess. It was his own failure to keep trusting in God. Now what will he do--fight against God's covenant people or blow his cover as a friend of the Philistines? Either course seems like a death sentence.
I think I've been between a rock and a hard place a time or two. Sometimes you just end up in a no-win situation and either way you go, you're toast. It's a double-edged sword that cuts no matter which direction you swing it. Sometimes you get there through your own bad decisions, and other times you just get put in that position innocently. In either case, it's a stressful place to be!
But in today's reading, this is what impresses me:
So Achish [King of the Philistines] called David and said to him, "As surely as the LORD lives, you have been reliable, and I would be pleased to have you serve with me in the army. From the day you came to me until now, I have found no fault in you, but the rulers don't approve of you. Turn back and go in peace; do nothing to displease the Philistine rulers." (v. 6-7)
Whew! That was close! God is well aware of David's plight, it turns out. Even now he steps in and comes to David's aid. David had no way out of this, but God made a way. That's what I feel God is impressing on my heart today. When there seems to be no good way to turn, he will make a way that I don't even foresee. He is able to deliver me out of any bad situation or provide a way through it. God is bigger than any other power or person that may threaten me. I've experienced his deliverance first-hand more than once in my life. There were times when I thought my life was basically over. I couldn't see any positive way forward. And then God stepped in and worked things out in some totally surprising way. He does that kind of thing, you know!
Lord, I want to trust you implicitly. I am so thankful for your faithfulness even when I am unfaithful. You are my deliverer and the one who holds my life in your hand. When there appears to be nothing but dead-ends before me, I will pray and wait and trust you to open up the way. You are awesome, God! Amen.
Please share this post on Facebook! And share your comments below. Pray for us in our big transition! Thanks so much!
Tuesday, March 6, 2012
Trusting and Obeying
Are you craving a word from God today? When life seems to wear us down and we realize we're not strong enough on our own, we need to soak in God's word. God will strengthen us and give us whatever we need for the journey. This is Michele with you this morning and we are studying 1Samuel 28:3-25. Read it more than once if you need to.
This is what jumps out at me as I read this text:
....And Saul had banned from the land of Isreal all mediums and those who consult the spirits of the dead. When Saul saw the vast Phillistine army, he became frantic with fear. He asked the LORD what he should do, but the Lord refused to answer him, either by dreams or by sacred lots or by the prophets. Saul then said to his advisers, "Find a woman who is a medium, so I can go and ask her what to do." (v. 3, 5-7)
Well that didn't take long, did it? Saul seems to have immediately forgotten his own ban on mediums. And why wouldn't you answer him, God? This reminds me of times when I've asked my child to do something or given him directions more than once and he has chosen to either ignore me or obey only a portion of what I've asked. If the child won't listen to your direction, Lord, then he or she may need to experience some natural consequences. I believe this is what happened here with Saul. You had directed him in the past and Saul was not obedient so you decided to leave him to his own devices.
Maybe this was a test to see where his heart really was on this matter. When it came down to it, Saul proved that his heart was not changed although he publicly denounced this practice. I think Saul thought that he was okay to call for a medium because he felt that God had left him. In fact, this is exactly what he told Samuel when Samuel asked why he had called him back (v. 15).
I know there have been times in my life when I've been very troubled about something and I don't feel like you're there. I have foolishly run to the counsel of others without waiting on you. Maybe the same has been true for me and you are teaching me that I need to seek you with my whole heart and be obedient to your direction in my life. You certainly don't force obedience. You know what's best and patiently wait for me to realize the same as I experience the natural consequences of my disobedience.
Father, help me to seek you with all of my heart and be obedient to what you ask of me. If I'm truly trusting in you this will come naturally. Lord, I don't ever want to feel like you've left me. I want to be fully submitted to you. Mold me and shape me into the child you want me to be. I give you reign over my heart. I am yours! Amen.
Please share your comments with us. If this post was a blessing to you pass it on to someone else and bless them, as well!
This is what jumps out at me as I read this text:
....And Saul had banned from the land of Isreal all mediums and those who consult the spirits of the dead. When Saul saw the vast Phillistine army, he became frantic with fear. He asked the LORD what he should do, but the Lord refused to answer him, either by dreams or by sacred lots or by the prophets. Saul then said to his advisers, "Find a woman who is a medium, so I can go and ask her what to do." (v. 3, 5-7)
Well that didn't take long, did it? Saul seems to have immediately forgotten his own ban on mediums. And why wouldn't you answer him, God? This reminds me of times when I've asked my child to do something or given him directions more than once and he has chosen to either ignore me or obey only a portion of what I've asked. If the child won't listen to your direction, Lord, then he or she may need to experience some natural consequences. I believe this is what happened here with Saul. You had directed him in the past and Saul was not obedient so you decided to leave him to his own devices.
Maybe this was a test to see where his heart really was on this matter. When it came down to it, Saul proved that his heart was not changed although he publicly denounced this practice. I think Saul thought that he was okay to call for a medium because he felt that God had left him. In fact, this is exactly what he told Samuel when Samuel asked why he had called him back (v. 15).
I know there have been times in my life when I've been very troubled about something and I don't feel like you're there. I have foolishly run to the counsel of others without waiting on you. Maybe the same has been true for me and you are teaching me that I need to seek you with my whole heart and be obedient to your direction in my life. You certainly don't force obedience. You know what's best and patiently wait for me to realize the same as I experience the natural consequences of my disobedience.
Father, help me to seek you with all of my heart and be obedient to what you ask of me. If I'm truly trusting in you this will come naturally. Lord, I don't ever want to feel like you've left me. I want to be fully submitted to you. Mold me and shape me into the child you want me to be. I give you reign over my heart. I am yours! Amen.
Please share your comments with us. If this post was a blessing to you pass it on to someone else and bless them, as well!
Thursday, March 1, 2012
When You Just Get Tired
I'm hoping for some wisdom from God today as I come to this moment to listen to his word and respond. Welcome along! Our conversation will grow out of 1 Samuel 27 through 28:2. That sounds long but it's just 14 verses. Go ahead and pray for insight and then read it with me. These are the words that jump off the page at me:
In those days the Philistines gathered their forces to fight against Israel. Achish [King of Philistia] said to David, "You must understand that you and your men will accompany me in the army." David said, "Then you will see for yourself what your servant can do." (28:1-2)
How does this happen? Did I read that right? So let me get this straight. David--the Israeli patriot, future anointed king of Israel, champion of God's honor--is marching into battle with the pagan king of the Philistines against the covenant people of God? And not only that, he's even talking smack about how he's going to whip them? I gotta admit. I never saw that one coming!
But then again, we never do. Have you ever found yourself doing the one evil thing you never thought you'd do? There you are thinking, "How in the world did I get myself into this?? I can't believe I'm actually doing this!" You didn't plan to. It was unthinkable that you'd ever get pulled into that. But, nevertheless, there you are. It's a sobering moment of truth.
I've got to believe that's exactly where David was. So how do we get into those places? Pretty much the same way that David did.
David thought to himself, "One of these days I will be destroyed by the hand of Saul. The best thing I can do is to escape to the land of the Philistines. Then Saul will give up searching for me anywhere in Israel, and I will slip out of his hand." (27:1)
God, I can see myself in David here. This is a moment of weakness where I can let myself turn inward and get tired of fighting the good fight. It wasn't that David had just suffered a defeat or was teetering from a crisis, either. He had just pulled off a great stunt and once again put Saul to shame (chp. 26). You had brought him through yet another sticky situation. But he must have just gotten tired of it all.
Sometimes we get to thinking that your way just isn't working for us. We get alone with our thoughts and don't accept the encouragement of others. We think faith will only get us so far and we forget your faithfulness to your promises. We start compromising our ethics because it seems like the expedient thing to do. We lose our focus and stray off course. Sometimes we wander into places, relationships or diversions that seem to offer some refuge from the stress and strain. It seems like a small line to cross and worth the relief it brings. But it's not where we belong, and the tide eventually starts to roll in.
That's how we one day wake up and realize we've traveled far from where we once stood, done things we never thought we'd stoop to. Lord, help me to stay out of that pit! Remind me of your faithfulness and how you've been there for me in the past. Let me never forget that you were there yesterday and you'll be there tomorrow. God, I pledge not to compromise on what's good and right and in tune with your will. I will rely on you and find fresh strength for the journey each day. Thank you for providing it. And thank you for your grace and forgiveness for the times I've failed. I need it and I receive it today because of what Jesus did for me on the cross. Amen.
Please share your comments! You can comment as "Anonymous" or sign in at the top right of the page. Remember to post this to Facebook! It's as simple as clicking the Facebook logo (f) below and typing in your password. Thanks, and God's peace to you!
In those days the Philistines gathered their forces to fight against Israel. Achish [King of Philistia] said to David, "You must understand that you and your men will accompany me in the army." David said, "Then you will see for yourself what your servant can do." (28:1-2)
How does this happen? Did I read that right? So let me get this straight. David--the Israeli patriot, future anointed king of Israel, champion of God's honor--is marching into battle with the pagan king of the Philistines against the covenant people of God? And not only that, he's even talking smack about how he's going to whip them? I gotta admit. I never saw that one coming!
But then again, we never do. Have you ever found yourself doing the one evil thing you never thought you'd do? There you are thinking, "How in the world did I get myself into this?? I can't believe I'm actually doing this!" You didn't plan to. It was unthinkable that you'd ever get pulled into that. But, nevertheless, there you are. It's a sobering moment of truth.
I've got to believe that's exactly where David was. So how do we get into those places? Pretty much the same way that David did.
David thought to himself, "One of these days I will be destroyed by the hand of Saul. The best thing I can do is to escape to the land of the Philistines. Then Saul will give up searching for me anywhere in Israel, and I will slip out of his hand." (27:1)
God, I can see myself in David here. This is a moment of weakness where I can let myself turn inward and get tired of fighting the good fight. It wasn't that David had just suffered a defeat or was teetering from a crisis, either. He had just pulled off a great stunt and once again put Saul to shame (chp. 26). You had brought him through yet another sticky situation. But he must have just gotten tired of it all.
Sometimes we get to thinking that your way just isn't working for us. We get alone with our thoughts and don't accept the encouragement of others. We think faith will only get us so far and we forget your faithfulness to your promises. We start compromising our ethics because it seems like the expedient thing to do. We lose our focus and stray off course. Sometimes we wander into places, relationships or diversions that seem to offer some refuge from the stress and strain. It seems like a small line to cross and worth the relief it brings. But it's not where we belong, and the tide eventually starts to roll in.
That's how we one day wake up and realize we've traveled far from where we once stood, done things we never thought we'd stoop to. Lord, help me to stay out of that pit! Remind me of your faithfulness and how you've been there for me in the past. Let me never forget that you were there yesterday and you'll be there tomorrow. God, I pledge not to compromise on what's good and right and in tune with your will. I will rely on you and find fresh strength for the journey each day. Thank you for providing it. And thank you for your grace and forgiveness for the times I've failed. I need it and I receive it today because of what Jesus did for me on the cross. Amen.
Please share your comments! You can comment as "Anonymous" or sign in at the top right of the page. Remember to post this to Facebook! It's as simple as clicking the Facebook logo (f) below and typing in your password. Thanks, and God's peace to you!
Tuesday, February 28, 2012
I've Already Decided
Good morning and happy Tuesday to all of you! This is Michele with you this morning, excited to have the opportunity to share with you what God has placed upon my heart regarding 1 Samuel 26. Again, David has the opportunity to kill Saul but doesn't follow through. Read it through and focus on David's response to this opportunity.
I can just imagine how David must have felt. Saul has been hunting him down for some time now without success. David is now given a second opportunity to end this whole nightmare but he chooses not to. What? Why? God, you handed him over to David. Was David being disobedient to you? Or....had he already made a decision to not kill Saul? Maybe this was a test from you to see how David would respond when he was asked to make a moral decision? Again. Was David honoring Saul or was he ultimately honoring you, Lord?
"God has surely handed your enemy over to you this time!" Abishai whispered to David. "Let me pin him to the ground with one thrust of the spear; I won't need to strike twice."
"No!" David said. "Don't kill him. For who can remain innocent after attacking the Lord's anointed one?" (v. 8-9)
Even under the pressure from Abishai, David doesn't seem to cave. He has already made the decision not to kill Saul and I don't believe it had anything to do with Saul himself. It was all about David's decision to honor you, Lord. Even when it would have been so easy to do what was wrong, David stood on his desire to please and honor you. What a great example of godliness he was to Abishai.
I've taught my son to make important moral decisions before he has to stand up against the pressure to make a bad choice. We are much stronger in situations of moral dilemma when we already know what our response will be. How about decisions regarding how you will conduct yourself at work (stealing anything from a paper clip to taking extra time during a break), at home (faithful to your spouse and upstanding as a parent), at school (will you follow the crowd when it comes to drinking or smoking or making fun of another classmate), in your relationships (will you have sex before marriage), etc. The list goes on and on.
Lord, I want to honor you with my life and in the decisions I make. There is always someone watching and waiting to see how I will respond in certain situations. I want to stand on my decision to follow you and not the ways of the world. Help me, Lord, and convict my heart when I'm tempted to make a decision that does not honor you. I want to leave a legacy of godliness to pass along to those who follow after me. I want to follow your ways even when I'm handed the opportunity to easily do the wrong thing. You are my master and my king...I choose to honor you! Amen
I can just imagine how David must have felt. Saul has been hunting him down for some time now without success. David is now given a second opportunity to end this whole nightmare but he chooses not to. What? Why? God, you handed him over to David. Was David being disobedient to you? Or....had he already made a decision to not kill Saul? Maybe this was a test from you to see how David would respond when he was asked to make a moral decision? Again. Was David honoring Saul or was he ultimately honoring you, Lord?
"God has surely handed your enemy over to you this time!" Abishai whispered to David. "Let me pin him to the ground with one thrust of the spear; I won't need to strike twice."
"No!" David said. "Don't kill him. For who can remain innocent after attacking the Lord's anointed one?" (v. 8-9)
Even under the pressure from Abishai, David doesn't seem to cave. He has already made the decision not to kill Saul and I don't believe it had anything to do with Saul himself. It was all about David's decision to honor you, Lord. Even when it would have been so easy to do what was wrong, David stood on his desire to please and honor you. What a great example of godliness he was to Abishai.
I've taught my son to make important moral decisions before he has to stand up against the pressure to make a bad choice. We are much stronger in situations of moral dilemma when we already know what our response will be. How about decisions regarding how you will conduct yourself at work (stealing anything from a paper clip to taking extra time during a break), at home (faithful to your spouse and upstanding as a parent), at school (will you follow the crowd when it comes to drinking or smoking or making fun of another classmate), in your relationships (will you have sex before marriage), etc. The list goes on and on.
Lord, I want to honor you with my life and in the decisions I make. There is always someone watching and waiting to see how I will respond in certain situations. I want to stand on my decision to follow you and not the ways of the world. Help me, Lord, and convict my heart when I'm tempted to make a decision that does not honor you. I want to leave a legacy of godliness to pass along to those who follow after me. I want to follow your ways even when I'm handed the opportunity to easily do the wrong thing. You are my master and my king...I choose to honor you! Amen
Friday, February 24, 2012
Flying Off the Handle?
Streams of living water in the desert...that is how it feels to step out of the world and its frustrations and into the blessed Word of God! May you be blessed today, as I am, with encouragment and comfort as we read and think about 1 Samuel 25. This is Katrinka writing today, glad to be able to share with you and receive a blessing back! God bless you each and every one. Join in with our discussion please, and share it as you see fit.
Chris wrote yesterday about the wonderful quality of nobility. It was an inspiring lesson to see David rise above the temptation to take revenge on Saul, the one who tried repeatedly to kill David. His noble character and trust in God to straighten things out instead of taking it into his own hands was a great example to me. Then I read chapter 25 and saw a totally different side of David! Here in this chapter he gets really mad for a reason that was not nearly as important as his encounter with King Saul in chapter 24.
David's pride got hurt! His men had been helpful with the sheep shearing of Nabal's flock. Since it was a festive time, David politely asked of the owner Nabal, "Please give your servants and your son David whatever you can find for them."(v. 8). When David heard about Nabal's arrogant rejection and insults over his request, David lost it! I mean, he exploded into action probably yelling, "Put on your swords!" (v. 13). Then he went out for revenge with 400 men. David was frothing at the mouth, so to speak, when he said,
Hmmmmmm? Is this the same man we read about yesterday?? Is this the one who bowed low before his enemy and spared his life graciously? I guess David was human after all! I know that I can relate to this change of attitude. Sometimes I feel noble and can be magnanimous and open-minded. And at another time my humanity takes over and I can get all bent out of shape and lose my cool over something microscopic! Are you like that too?
That's when we all need someone like Abigail to come into the picture. Abigail, a woman. Abigail, the wife of the Nabal (which means Fool - v. 25). Now how in the world can this one little woman stand up against an army of 400 to save her home and family? With great courage and fast action, she took herself into the line of fire in an attempt to make peace with David. Abigail played a vital role in this scenario because she was a peacemaker. Jesus our Lord said, "Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called the sons of God." (Matthew 5:9).
When we are raving and ranting, we need someone to calm us down and put things back into perspective. Abigail did just that. When she saw David, Abigail demonstrated what it is to be a peacemaker. In verses 23 and following we read of her humility, of her gentle reasoning with David. And then she spoke words that must have struck David to the heart, "Now since the LORD has kept you, my master, from bloodshed and from avenging yourself with your own hands, ..." (v. 26).
You know what I hear when I read that? The Lord sent Abigail to David. God used a simple woman to speak words of wisdom to a mighty warrior who had defeated Goliath and had command of thousands of soldiers.
Isn't that a little ironic? Many times in my life I have found that the Lord does things like that. I believe that he is patient and kind and merciful and helpful to his children, and that he often prevents us from making great mistakes by sending someone or something--a voice--that brings about peace in our lives in place of conflict, hurt and pain.
You like happy endings? I do! This one has a perfect fairytale ending. To make a long story short, Nabal the ungrateful is struck dead by God! That was quick vengeance! Then David asks Abigail to marry him and, I believe, they lived "happily ever after." Isn't that ending a lot more satisfying than having it all end up in a bloodbath? I think so. And now the lesson for me and for you: Be a peacemaker, and listen to those peacemakers who God sends our way.
Dear Lord, bring about more peace in our lives as we trust in You and listen for your direction in our lives. Forgive us when we lose control and fly off the handle. Keep us calm in your Everlasting Love and care. In Jesus' name we ask it, Amen.
Chris wrote yesterday about the wonderful quality of nobility. It was an inspiring lesson to see David rise above the temptation to take revenge on Saul, the one who tried repeatedly to kill David. His noble character and trust in God to straighten things out instead of taking it into his own hands was a great example to me. Then I read chapter 25 and saw a totally different side of David! Here in this chapter he gets really mad for a reason that was not nearly as important as his encounter with King Saul in chapter 24.
David's pride got hurt! His men had been helpful with the sheep shearing of Nabal's flock. Since it was a festive time, David politely asked of the owner Nabal, "Please give your servants and your son David whatever you can find for them."(v. 8). When David heard about Nabal's arrogant rejection and insults over his request, David lost it! I mean, he exploded into action probably yelling, "Put on your swords!" (v. 13). Then he went out for revenge with 400 men. David was frothing at the mouth, so to speak, when he said,
"It's been useless--all my watching over this fellow's property in the desert so that nothing of his was missing. He has paid me back evil for good. May God deal with David, be it ever so severely, if by morning I leave alive one male of all who belong to him!"(vv. 21-22).
Hmmmmmm? Is this the same man we read about yesterday?? Is this the one who bowed low before his enemy and spared his life graciously? I guess David was human after all! I know that I can relate to this change of attitude. Sometimes I feel noble and can be magnanimous and open-minded. And at another time my humanity takes over and I can get all bent out of shape and lose my cool over something microscopic! Are you like that too?
That's when we all need someone like Abigail to come into the picture. Abigail, a woman. Abigail, the wife of the Nabal (which means Fool - v. 25). Now how in the world can this one little woman stand up against an army of 400 to save her home and family? With great courage and fast action, she took herself into the line of fire in an attempt to make peace with David. Abigail played a vital role in this scenario because she was a peacemaker. Jesus our Lord said, "Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called the sons of God." (Matthew 5:9).
When we are raving and ranting, we need someone to calm us down and put things back into perspective. Abigail did just that. When she saw David, Abigail demonstrated what it is to be a peacemaker. In verses 23 and following we read of her humility, of her gentle reasoning with David. And then she spoke words that must have struck David to the heart, "Now since the LORD has kept you, my master, from bloodshed and from avenging yourself with your own hands, ..." (v. 26).
You know what I hear when I read that? The Lord sent Abigail to David. God used a simple woman to speak words of wisdom to a mighty warrior who had defeated Goliath and had command of thousands of soldiers.
Isn't that a little ironic? Many times in my life I have found that the Lord does things like that. I believe that he is patient and kind and merciful and helpful to his children, and that he often prevents us from making great mistakes by sending someone or something--a voice--that brings about peace in our lives in place of conflict, hurt and pain.
You like happy endings? I do! This one has a perfect fairytale ending. To make a long story short, Nabal the ungrateful is struck dead by God! That was quick vengeance! Then David asks Abigail to marry him and, I believe, they lived "happily ever after." Isn't that ending a lot more satisfying than having it all end up in a bloodbath? I think so. And now the lesson for me and for you: Be a peacemaker, and listen to those peacemakers who God sends our way.
Dear Lord, bring about more peace in our lives as we trust in You and listen for your direction in our lives. Forgive us when we lose control and fly off the handle. Keep us calm in your Everlasting Love and care. In Jesus' name we ask it, Amen.
Thursday, February 23, 2012
Rise to Nobility
Welcome back! Every day there is a fresh supply of wisdom and inspiration from God. You just have to receive it! So let's listen to his heart from 1 Samuel 24 today. It's an easy read, so don't miss the blessing.
God is speaking to me today about nobility. Yeah, that's not a quality you hear much about anymore, is it? Living a noble life may not get you on TV or in the mags and definitely not in the Super Bowl half-time show, but it will win you honor and respect. It will also give you a deep sense that way down at your core, everything is good, as it should be.
David is being hunted like an animal by King Saul for nothing except pure envy. Saul has falsely accused David and slandered him and turned him into a target. Then Saul steps unwittingly into a cave where David is hiding with his men. At last, David has a chance to rid himself of Saul forever! Yet, he passes up the opportunity. I'm struck by what he says to Saul as he surprises him at the mouth of the cave:
May the LORD judge between you and me. And may the LORD avenge the wrongs you have done to me, but my hand will not touch you. As the old saying goes, 'From evildoers come evil deeds,' so my hand will not touch you." (v. 12-13)
Hollywood's all about revenge. ABC even has a primetime show by that name. God, I have to admit that there are times that I have wanted revenge. Badly. There is something animal in us that wants to strike back when we've been wounded. I am totally impressed by David's self-restraint. Revenge was his for the taking and he let it go! And why would he do that? He wanted to live a noble life. I aspire to that kind of character, Lord. I want to entrust vengeance to you.
What impresses me even more is that David chose mercy over malice even when his whole band of men were egging him on. He could really have found good reason to listen to them. They were validating his anger and his craving for revenge. They even interpreted this fortuitous opportunity as God's will that David strike back. It's so easy to justify our hatred, God. It's such a temptation to tell our stories of betrayal to as many people as we can so that we can win their empathy and feel validated in getting even.
Lord, help me to have the moral courage to stand with you like David did, to push back against the voices that prod us to a life of anything less than nobility--especially the voice within. No wonder you called David a man after your own heart. His heart was noble. He lived above his petty, jealous, back-stabbing enemies. He rose above even his misguided friends. He took the high road, and he didn't even pat himself on the back for it. It wasn't just a show. He was real. It was who he was in you.
I choose the path of nobility, God. Lead me in it, and help me to instill it in my children. And thank you for the people who have modeled it for me so well. They are a glory to you! Amen.
Please share this post with your Facebook friends, and leave us a comment below! Peace.
God is speaking to me today about nobility. Yeah, that's not a quality you hear much about anymore, is it? Living a noble life may not get you on TV or in the mags and definitely not in the Super Bowl half-time show, but it will win you honor and respect. It will also give you a deep sense that way down at your core, everything is good, as it should be.
David is being hunted like an animal by King Saul for nothing except pure envy. Saul has falsely accused David and slandered him and turned him into a target. Then Saul steps unwittingly into a cave where David is hiding with his men. At last, David has a chance to rid himself of Saul forever! Yet, he passes up the opportunity. I'm struck by what he says to Saul as he surprises him at the mouth of the cave:
May the LORD judge between you and me. And may the LORD avenge the wrongs you have done to me, but my hand will not touch you. As the old saying goes, 'From evildoers come evil deeds,' so my hand will not touch you." (v. 12-13)
Hollywood's all about revenge. ABC even has a primetime show by that name. God, I have to admit that there are times that I have wanted revenge. Badly. There is something animal in us that wants to strike back when we've been wounded. I am totally impressed by David's self-restraint. Revenge was his for the taking and he let it go! And why would he do that? He wanted to live a noble life. I aspire to that kind of character, Lord. I want to entrust vengeance to you.
What impresses me even more is that David chose mercy over malice even when his whole band of men were egging him on. He could really have found good reason to listen to them. They were validating his anger and his craving for revenge. They even interpreted this fortuitous opportunity as God's will that David strike back. It's so easy to justify our hatred, God. It's such a temptation to tell our stories of betrayal to as many people as we can so that we can win their empathy and feel validated in getting even.
Lord, help me to have the moral courage to stand with you like David did, to push back against the voices that prod us to a life of anything less than nobility--especially the voice within. No wonder you called David a man after your own heart. His heart was noble. He lived above his petty, jealous, back-stabbing enemies. He rose above even his misguided friends. He took the high road, and he didn't even pat himself on the back for it. It wasn't just a show. He was real. It was who he was in you.
I choose the path of nobility, God. Lead me in it, and help me to instill it in my children. And thank you for the people who have modeled it for me so well. They are a glory to you! Amen.
Please share this post with your Facebook friends, and leave us a comment below! Peace.
Wednesday, February 22, 2012
The Best Friends
God is inviting us into a conversation with him about who he is, who we are, and what a life of faith looks like through the Scriptures. Today we are coming to 1 Samuel 23, where we continue the exploits of David.
These were some of the dark times of David's life. He used to be the winner of Israeli Idol--everyone was cheering him and singing his praises. But now he's been reduced to a fugitive, living as a nomad in desolate places. Everywhere he goes, even people he rescues try to turn him over to the king. That had to be depressing! It's troubling, God, that sometimes even the very people we've helped the most can turn on us. They are among the individuals in our lives who suck the emotional and spiritual energy right out of us. Just being around them is exhausting. But what I feel you touching my heart with is this statement:
And Saul's son Jonathan went to David at Horesh and helped him find strength in God. (v. 16)
I need more people like Jonathan in my life. They are the people that invigorate me. They are the spiritual energy-boosters. When I'm down and out, they are the ones that I love to hear from. God, I'm thinking of some of those people now and how you've used them to lift me up out of the dumps more than once. In my dark days, there would be an email from Jeanne with a prayer for strength. Here is one I saved:
Dear Chris~
I have been thinking of and praying for you, Lori and Steven. I have my chapel
hour today (2-3) and will offer it for you and your children. I know this day
will be particularly difficult and I pray you find the Spirit of the Lord in
the midst of your sadness.
Yes, she was my Jonathan so many times even though we weren't otherwise very close. I think of Michele who points me to you on a regular basis, daily encouraging me to remember that I am yours and that you have a plan for me. I think of Scott and Greg and many others who have helped me find strength in you, God, via a phone call or a visit or something in writing. I think of Terry and Steve who drove 8 hours to come and lay hands on my shoulders and pray with me during a crisis. And I think of my mom who has been my constant encourager for all my life, who has even flown across the ocean to stand by my side and gently remind me of God's love and helped me find his strength when my own was depleted. And the list could go on.
What would I do without those people in my life? Where would I be today without my Jonathans? God, they are such immense blessings from you! They are the best friends! I pray that my friends who read this blog find that I am one of their Jonathans, along with Michele and Katrinka who regularly contribute. I hope they find help through us to access your strength. And I pray that they will add more Jonathans to their lives by taking the risk to reach out and connect on a spiritual level with other friends of yours, God. They need that kind of relationships. I also pray that we will consider who we may be a Jonathan for today, tomorrow and every day moving forward. Somebody we know right now is sinking. Let us be one who helps them find strength in you, God, our Rock, Fortress and Deliverer. Amen!
Please share your story of one of your Jonathans, or share a way that you have found that you can be a Jonathan to others. And please share this post on Facebook! (Click "f" below.) Peace.
These were some of the dark times of David's life. He used to be the winner of Israeli Idol--everyone was cheering him and singing his praises. But now he's been reduced to a fugitive, living as a nomad in desolate places. Everywhere he goes, even people he rescues try to turn him over to the king. That had to be depressing! It's troubling, God, that sometimes even the very people we've helped the most can turn on us. They are among the individuals in our lives who suck the emotional and spiritual energy right out of us. Just being around them is exhausting. But what I feel you touching my heart with is this statement:
And Saul's son Jonathan went to David at Horesh and helped him find strength in God. (v. 16)
I need more people like Jonathan in my life. They are the people that invigorate me. They are the spiritual energy-boosters. When I'm down and out, they are the ones that I love to hear from. God, I'm thinking of some of those people now and how you've used them to lift me up out of the dumps more than once. In my dark days, there would be an email from Jeanne with a prayer for strength. Here is one I saved:
Dear Chris~
I have been thinking of and praying for you, Lori and Steven. I have my chapel
hour today (2-3) and will offer it for you and your children. I know this day
will be particularly difficult and I pray you find the Spirit of the Lord in
the midst of your sadness.
Yes, she was my Jonathan so many times even though we weren't otherwise very close. I think of Michele who points me to you on a regular basis, daily encouraging me to remember that I am yours and that you have a plan for me. I think of Scott and Greg and many others who have helped me find strength in you, God, via a phone call or a visit or something in writing. I think of Terry and Steve who drove 8 hours to come and lay hands on my shoulders and pray with me during a crisis. And I think of my mom who has been my constant encourager for all my life, who has even flown across the ocean to stand by my side and gently remind me of God's love and helped me find his strength when my own was depleted. And the list could go on.
What would I do without those people in my life? Where would I be today without my Jonathans? God, they are such immense blessings from you! They are the best friends! I pray that my friends who read this blog find that I am one of their Jonathans, along with Michele and Katrinka who regularly contribute. I hope they find help through us to access your strength. And I pray that they will add more Jonathans to their lives by taking the risk to reach out and connect on a spiritual level with other friends of yours, God. They need that kind of relationships. I also pray that we will consider who we may be a Jonathan for today, tomorrow and every day moving forward. Somebody we know right now is sinking. Let us be one who helps them find strength in you, God, our Rock, Fortress and Deliverer. Amen!
Please share your story of one of your Jonathans, or share a way that you have found that you can be a Jonathan to others. And please share this post on Facebook! (Click "f" below.) Peace.
Tuesday, February 21, 2012
The Rise of Evil
Good morning and happy Tuesday to all of you! This is Michele writing for you this morning. Thank you for being with me as we dive into God's Word. Are you ready to hear from the Lord? Me too! Please read 1 Samuel 22:3-23 with me. It's short but pretty intense.
Then the king said to Doeg, "You do it." So Doeg the Edomite turned on them and killed them that day, eighty-five priests in all, still wearing their priestly garments. Then he went to Nob, the town of the priests, and killed the priests' families-men and women, children and babies-and all the cattle, donkeys, sheep, and goats. (v. 18-19)
Lord, this seems a little unfair and way over the top! All because one priest consulted you for David and gave him food and a sword? Was it necessary for eighty-five men and their families to die for that? What had happened to Saul? He had become an evil madman.
Why would you let this happen, God? Why didn't you protect those who served you? One would think that there should be some sort of special protection for those who live their lives in service to you. It doesn't make sense that those who love you have to lose their lives while evil is allowed to flourish. Saul had become a very evil man and he expected everyone else to follow in his schemes. I was encouraged to read in verse 17 that Saul's own men refused to do the killing that he had ordered them to do. Someone needed to stand up for what was right. I also noticed that Saul didn't do any of the killing himself, he needed someone else to do his dirty work. What a coward!
But, God, you don't want us to develop a relationship with you so we can escape the evil in this world. You don't want us to come to you with the misconception that life will be easier that way. Some of the most long suffering people I know are very devoted Christians. As Christians we never have to suffer alone, you come along side us and even carry us when our own strength is gone. Coming to you is not a guarantee of all good things to come but it IS a guarantee of eternal life and the ultimate abolition of evil.
Dear Lord, keep our minds on the ultimate prize of eternal life with you. Fill our hearts with hope and joy and help us not to expect to live an easy and carefree life here on earth because we know you. Life is hard and as Christians the world does not side with us. Regardless of how the course of our lives may go, give us hearts that are wholly committed to you. We love you, Lord. Amen
Then the king said to Doeg, "You do it." So Doeg the Edomite turned on them and killed them that day, eighty-five priests in all, still wearing their priestly garments. Then he went to Nob, the town of the priests, and killed the priests' families-men and women, children and babies-and all the cattle, donkeys, sheep, and goats. (v. 18-19)
Lord, this seems a little unfair and way over the top! All because one priest consulted you for David and gave him food and a sword? Was it necessary for eighty-five men and their families to die for that? What had happened to Saul? He had become an evil madman.
Why would you let this happen, God? Why didn't you protect those who served you? One would think that there should be some sort of special protection for those who live their lives in service to you. It doesn't make sense that those who love you have to lose their lives while evil is allowed to flourish. Saul had become a very evil man and he expected everyone else to follow in his schemes. I was encouraged to read in verse 17 that Saul's own men refused to do the killing that he had ordered them to do. Someone needed to stand up for what was right. I also noticed that Saul didn't do any of the killing himself, he needed someone else to do his dirty work. What a coward!
But, God, you don't want us to develop a relationship with you so we can escape the evil in this world. You don't want us to come to you with the misconception that life will be easier that way. Some of the most long suffering people I know are very devoted Christians. As Christians we never have to suffer alone, you come along side us and even carry us when our own strength is gone. Coming to you is not a guarantee of all good things to come but it IS a guarantee of eternal life and the ultimate abolition of evil.
Dear Lord, keep our minds on the ultimate prize of eternal life with you. Fill our hearts with hope and joy and help us not to expect to live an easy and carefree life here on earth because we know you. Life is hard and as Christians the world does not side with us. Regardless of how the course of our lives may go, give us hearts that are wholly committed to you. We love you, Lord. Amen
Friday, February 17, 2012
When Life Falls Apart
Welcome to today's conversation with God! His voice is the only one that is always true, so I filter all the other voices in my life through his word. I'm reading 1 Samuel 21 through 22:2. And what I see here is a man in trouble--a man full of fear, anxiety and desperation. Life had definitely turned south on David. His storybook rise to popularity and privilege has turned into a nightmare.
David took these words to heart and was very much afraid of Achish king of Gath. So he pretended to be insane in their presence; and while he was in their hands he acted like a madman, making marks on the doors of the gate and letting saliva run down his beard. (v. 12-13)
This isn't quite the same guy that boldly charged the giant, is it? This isn't the same man of faith who was confident that God would enable him to beat down that big bully. I mean, where is the David that fearlessly led dozens of conquests against Israel's fiercest enemies?
Life happened to David. Here's what I mean. God had always given him the outcome he had hoped for. He had won every battle. Until now. He went from hero to hated in the eyes of the king, and for the first time he felt totally vulnerable. That's a familiar place for me, God, and probably for lots of others. It's that moment where I realize that you don't seem to be helping me. You aren't coming through like you have before. Whereas faith had once given me almost a feeling of invincibility, it becomes starkly clear that my relationship with you doesn't guarantee me that I won't be badly hurt or that I cannot fail. I begin to wonder if you've withdrawn your favor.
That's when I start thinking that's it all up to me to save my own neck. That's when I try to scheme my way out of the problems I am facing. David was definitely in scheming mode at this point. He's lying to good people who would help him. He's running to people who are worse than Saul. And he ends up in a dark cave feeling the loneliness and depression close in around him.
God, I've been to that dark place before. Long sleepless nights. Troubled thoughts that hound me. Feelings of being abandoned. But it's a place where you can still be found. You met David in that cave. You reminded him that he should never take your help for granted. He needed to seek it. He needed to seek you. He needed to let his troubled thoughts find peace in the only one who is bigger than all of that mess he was in. It's wonderful, God, that even in the darkest place your light can emerge. As David wrote from within that cave:
The LORD is close to the brokenhearted
and saves those who are crushed in spirit.
A righteous person may have many troubles,
but the LORD delivers him from them all. (Psalm 34:18-19)
I'd love for you to share an experience of your own and what you learned from it. You can comment below, selecting "Anonymous" from the "Comment as" menu. And please take just a second to share this post with your friends on Facebook. It may be just what they needed today! (Click the Facebook "f" icon below.)
David took these words to heart and was very much afraid of Achish king of Gath. So he pretended to be insane in their presence; and while he was in their hands he acted like a madman, making marks on the doors of the gate and letting saliva run down his beard. (v. 12-13)
This isn't quite the same guy that boldly charged the giant, is it? This isn't the same man of faith who was confident that God would enable him to beat down that big bully. I mean, where is the David that fearlessly led dozens of conquests against Israel's fiercest enemies?
Life happened to David. Here's what I mean. God had always given him the outcome he had hoped for. He had won every battle. Until now. He went from hero to hated in the eyes of the king, and for the first time he felt totally vulnerable. That's a familiar place for me, God, and probably for lots of others. It's that moment where I realize that you don't seem to be helping me. You aren't coming through like you have before. Whereas faith had once given me almost a feeling of invincibility, it becomes starkly clear that my relationship with you doesn't guarantee me that I won't be badly hurt or that I cannot fail. I begin to wonder if you've withdrawn your favor.
That's when I start thinking that's it all up to me to save my own neck. That's when I try to scheme my way out of the problems I am facing. David was definitely in scheming mode at this point. He's lying to good people who would help him. He's running to people who are worse than Saul. And he ends up in a dark cave feeling the loneliness and depression close in around him.
God, I've been to that dark place before. Long sleepless nights. Troubled thoughts that hound me. Feelings of being abandoned. But it's a place where you can still be found. You met David in that cave. You reminded him that he should never take your help for granted. He needed to seek it. He needed to seek you. He needed to let his troubled thoughts find peace in the only one who is bigger than all of that mess he was in. It's wonderful, God, that even in the darkest place your light can emerge. As David wrote from within that cave:
The LORD is close to the brokenhearted
and saves those who are crushed in spirit.
A righteous person may have many troubles,
but the LORD delivers him from them all. (Psalm 34:18-19)
I'd love for you to share an experience of your own and what you learned from it. You can comment below, selecting "Anonymous" from the "Comment as" menu. And please take just a second to share this post with your friends on Facebook. It may be just what they needed today! (Click the Facebook "f" icon below.)
Wednesday, February 15, 2012
From Cyber-Acquaintances to Loyal Friendships
I hope you had a happy Valentine's Day with the one you love! If you're not in love right now, don't forget how special your close friends and family are. As I listen for a word from God today from 1 Samuel 20, I'm thinking about how important relationships are. Read with me about David's true friendship with Jonathan. What a great story!
Jonathan said to David, "Go in peace, for we have a sworn friendship with each other in the name of the LORD..." (v. 42)
It’s been said that “A friend is the one who comes in when the whole world has gone out.” That is what Jonathan was to David. God, you are showing me something about the importance of loyalty. It's a quality that is hard to find these days. A loyal friend or a loyal spouse is a priceless blessing. And you are showing me what loyalty really is. Some people are scared of commitment. Others make commitments and stand by them, but only as long as it's in their own best interest. A truly loyal person is willing to suffer to keep his commitment. That's what I see in Jonathan. He stood by his friend even though David was a threat to his own heirship to the throne. Not only that, but he remained loyal even when it almost got him killed!
Jonathan had a tough situation to navigate, trying to balance his loyalty to both his friend, David, and his own father, King Saul. It's not uncommon to have conflicting loyalties. Relationships are complicated. It's admirable how well Jonathan managed to avoid betraying either of these two important relationships. I see, God, that the wisdom it took to do that came from Jonathan's ultimate loyaly to you. The principles that you had taught him through your word about love and truth and honor were clearly guiding him. It's a far cry from the soap opera lives that so many people live!
God, thank you for reminding me that loyalty is the key to lasting, satisfying relationships. And thank you for the reminder that true loyalty must stand strong even when it hurts or threatens my own self-interest. I know that you being my highest loyalty helps me tremendously to deal effectively with the complicated situations that relationships present.
It would be great if you were to share your own reflections below! And please share this post on Facebook. We're good at cyber-acquaintances, but real loyalty is something most of us crave and we all need. Peace.
Jonathan said to David, "Go in peace, for we have a sworn friendship with each other in the name of the LORD..." (v. 42)
It’s been said that “A friend is the one who comes in when the whole world has gone out.” That is what Jonathan was to David. God, you are showing me something about the importance of loyalty. It's a quality that is hard to find these days. A loyal friend or a loyal spouse is a priceless blessing. And you are showing me what loyalty really is. Some people are scared of commitment. Others make commitments and stand by them, but only as long as it's in their own best interest. A truly loyal person is willing to suffer to keep his commitment. That's what I see in Jonathan. He stood by his friend even though David was a threat to his own heirship to the throne. Not only that, but he remained loyal even when it almost got him killed!
Jonathan had a tough situation to navigate, trying to balance his loyalty to both his friend, David, and his own father, King Saul. It's not uncommon to have conflicting loyalties. Relationships are complicated. It's admirable how well Jonathan managed to avoid betraying either of these two important relationships. I see, God, that the wisdom it took to do that came from Jonathan's ultimate loyaly to you. The principles that you had taught him through your word about love and truth and honor were clearly guiding him. It's a far cry from the soap opera lives that so many people live!
God, thank you for reminding me that loyalty is the key to lasting, satisfying relationships. And thank you for the reminder that true loyalty must stand strong even when it hurts or threatens my own self-interest. I know that you being my highest loyalty helps me tremendously to deal effectively with the complicated situations that relationships present.
It would be great if you were to share your own reflections below! And please share this post on Facebook. We're good at cyber-acquaintances, but real loyalty is something most of us crave and we all need. Peace.
Tuesday, February 14, 2012
Green with Envy
Happy Valentines Day to all of you! Make sure you tell someone special that you love them today. This is Michele with you this morning and we are moving into Chapter 19 of 1 Samuel. Please take a read and let your mind ponder what God is wanting to get across to you. He always has something valuable to say to us in his Word. God speaks to each one of us in a unique way depending on what we need to hear.
This is what I hear him saying to my heart as I read this chapter:
So Saul listened to Jonathan and vowed, "As surely as the Lord lives, David will not be killed."
Afterward Jonathan called David and told him what had happened. Then he brought David to Saul, and David served in the court as before. (v. 6-7)
Finally, Lord, Saul came to his senses and listened to Jonathan. In the verses leading up to this, Jonathan reminded his father of all the things David had done for him and all of Isreal in the past. It appears as if Saul was able to look past himself then and remember who David really was. Jonathan seemed to have a great influence on this father.
All went well until David had yet another victory and Saul just couldn't handle it. (v.8)
But one day when Saul was sitting at home, with spear in hand, the tormenting spirit from the Lord suddenly came upon him again. As David played his harp, Saul hurled his spear at David. But David dodged out of the way, and leaving the spear stuck in the wall, he fled and escaped into the night. (v. 9-10)
Ugh! Looks like Saul was still a very jealous man. God, why is it that we get caught up in wanting to be better than others? Maybe there's a coworker who's making a good impression on his/her boss, maybe a friend wins an award for doing something very well, or someone else gets an accolade that we think we deserve. We need to be happy for other's accomplishments and not always want ourselves to be the best. Lord, I realize that this story is quite extreme but not unheard of. I'm currently thinking of our crime rate and the amount of gang violence or just murders in general that occur in our world. A good percentage of violent crimes happen because someone has what someone else wants. Some individuals will go to any extreme to get what they want.
Heavenly Father, please make us the kind of people who will give you praise for other's accomplishments and recognize your work in their lives. Help us to support others and love them with a love that only comes from you. We want to be shining examples of your love, not jealous and self serving. The next generation needs to be taught how to love others and if Christians don't teach them they will definitely learn the ways of our fallen world. Give us, dear Lord, the desire to teach our young ones your ways. Amen
Please share your thoughts with us. Bless others if you've been blessed! Have a great one and again, Happy Valentines Day!
This is what I hear him saying to my heart as I read this chapter:
So Saul listened to Jonathan and vowed, "As surely as the Lord lives, David will not be killed."
Afterward Jonathan called David and told him what had happened. Then he brought David to Saul, and David served in the court as before. (v. 6-7)
Finally, Lord, Saul came to his senses and listened to Jonathan. In the verses leading up to this, Jonathan reminded his father of all the things David had done for him and all of Isreal in the past. It appears as if Saul was able to look past himself then and remember who David really was. Jonathan seemed to have a great influence on this father.
All went well until David had yet another victory and Saul just couldn't handle it. (v.8)
But one day when Saul was sitting at home, with spear in hand, the tormenting spirit from the Lord suddenly came upon him again. As David played his harp, Saul hurled his spear at David. But David dodged out of the way, and leaving the spear stuck in the wall, he fled and escaped into the night. (v. 9-10)
Ugh! Looks like Saul was still a very jealous man. God, why is it that we get caught up in wanting to be better than others? Maybe there's a coworker who's making a good impression on his/her boss, maybe a friend wins an award for doing something very well, or someone else gets an accolade that we think we deserve. We need to be happy for other's accomplishments and not always want ourselves to be the best. Lord, I realize that this story is quite extreme but not unheard of. I'm currently thinking of our crime rate and the amount of gang violence or just murders in general that occur in our world. A good percentage of violent crimes happen because someone has what someone else wants. Some individuals will go to any extreme to get what they want.
Heavenly Father, please make us the kind of people who will give you praise for other's accomplishments and recognize your work in their lives. Help us to support others and love them with a love that only comes from you. We want to be shining examples of your love, not jealous and self serving. The next generation needs to be taught how to love others and if Christians don't teach them they will definitely learn the ways of our fallen world. Give us, dear Lord, the desire to teach our young ones your ways. Amen
Please share your thoughts with us. Bless others if you've been blessed! Have a great one and again, Happy Valentines Day!
Friday, February 10, 2012
"Plans of Mice and Men Go Astray"
Thank you, Lord, for another beautiful day! Each day is a gift from God and I never miss that thought when I wake. No matter what the weather, it IS a beautiful day and I am thankful that today I can share some thoughts over I Samuel 18 with you. This is Katrinka writing today and we begin with the reading of chapter 18, verses 12-30. It is an intruiging adventure, this growing conflict between king Saul and David. Saul is getting greener and greener with jealousy and David remains oblivious to his subversive plans for his death. The Philistines are the great enemy at the moment, and David's success in battle is bringing him laurels and fame. Saul, to say the least, is NOT happy.
Isn't it the same old trite theme again -- men trying to use women to bring about the ruin of their enemy? Well, that is just what Saul is doing this time. He plots the death of David using, of all people, his own daughters, as a means to that end!
Saul offers his oldest daughter to David first, asking that in return David "serve bravely and fight the battles of the Lord." Now that sounds good, doesn't it? But Saul was a crafty, jealous man. Remembering the popularity of David, he realizes that he cannot harm him without bringing down a lot of problems on himself from the people who love David! Saul said to himself, "I will not raise a hand against him. Let the Philistines do that!" (v. 17).
David, on the other hand, is just too good to be true! He is humble in spirit and serves with all his heart both his king and His God. David feels that he is unworthy to be the son-in-law of King Saul, and refuses to marry the oldest daughter. What a bummer for Saul! His perfect plan is foiled by the goodness and humility of David's heart. But Saul's heart is being eaten away with the burning hatred growing inside of him for David
.
Then a sweet note comes to Saul's ears. He hears that his daughter Michal is in love with David. Now here is an interesting development! We can just see Saul's eyes light up with the newfound revelation and the realization that he has another chance for his dastardly deed of bringing about David's death. Saul said, "I will give her to him...so that she may be a snare to him and so that the hand of the Philistines may be against him." (v. 20).
Now I have to wonder just what it was about Michal that he thought would be a snare to David? It is true that in many cases a woman can be the downfall of a man. On the other hand, the old saying is still true: "Behind every successful man there is a good woman." Yep. A woman is indeed a powerful tool! If she is good, she can be a tremendous influence for good with her husband. If she is wicked, she can bring about terrible atrocities from her husband. Remember Jezebel? Somehow, however, I think that Michal was not of the Jezebel variety. Perhaps it was just that Saul thought that her great beauty and sweetness would distract David from the main focus of his life -- serving his God. Any distraction could bring about carelessness in battle on David's part and result in his death.
Foiled again! Saul must be gnashing his teeth by now! David again resists the offer of the king's daughter, saying, "Do you think it is a small matter to become the king's son-in-law? I'm only a poor man and little known." (v. 23). There it is again. Humility serves as a shield against great danger in the life of David. Humility is also a great shield for your heart and mine against hidden snares that Satan throws our way. What a great lesson we can learn about protecting our own lives and souls!
Long story short: David finally agreed to Saul's stringent conditions in war against the Philistines to win Michal for his wife. But instead of being killed in the battles, David was overwhelmingly successful and came home triumphant to claim his reward. David got his princess! Michal was given to him in marriage! Surely the Lord blessed that union and with it brought Saul's evil plans to naught!
End of story: "When Saul realized that the Lord was with David and that his daughter Michal loved David, Saul became still more afraid of him, and he remained his enemy the rest of his days." (v. 28).
Foiled again! This Old Testament confrontation reminds me a little of the old Looney Tunes cartoon -- "Roadrunner and Wily Cayote." No matter what scheme Saul had to get rid of David, the Lord God turned it around for David's good instead! So, in the end David got the girl, the people in the kingdom of Israel loved David even more than before, and his victories against God's enemies, the Philistines, increased.
So: They lived happily ever after? Well, that is not the end of the story. But it is a really good beginning for David and Michal and for Israel. David is called "the man after God's own heart." Maybe it was his humility and devotion to the Lord that made it so?
Dear Lord, please give me humility for this day. Help me not to think more of myself that I should, but instead to think about others being better than I am. Please use me for good in fulfilling your purposes in this world. Let me see the great blessings that You give me every day of my life. Thank you for my Hero, Jesus Christ, whose blood makes me confident in your Grace and forgiveness when I fall short. In Jesus Name, Amen.
Now it's YOUR turn! Please join in this discussion with your own thoughts and/or questions. It is so encouraging to read your input! You can choose to be Anonymous and sign your name at the end or not, as you choose. Or you can sign in following the instructions on the upper right of the blog. Chris and all who participate will benefit from your participation. Thanks all, and God bless you!
Isn't it the same old trite theme again -- men trying to use women to bring about the ruin of their enemy? Well, that is just what Saul is doing this time. He plots the death of David using, of all people, his own daughters, as a means to that end!
Saul offers his oldest daughter to David first, asking that in return David "serve bravely and fight the battles of the Lord." Now that sounds good, doesn't it? But Saul was a crafty, jealous man. Remembering the popularity of David, he realizes that he cannot harm him without bringing down a lot of problems on himself from the people who love David! Saul said to himself, "I will not raise a hand against him. Let the Philistines do that!" (v. 17).
David, on the other hand, is just too good to be true! He is humble in spirit and serves with all his heart both his king and His God. David feels that he is unworthy to be the son-in-law of King Saul, and refuses to marry the oldest daughter. What a bummer for Saul! His perfect plan is foiled by the goodness and humility of David's heart. But Saul's heart is being eaten away with the burning hatred growing inside of him for David
.
Then a sweet note comes to Saul's ears. He hears that his daughter Michal is in love with David. Now here is an interesting development! We can just see Saul's eyes light up with the newfound revelation and the realization that he has another chance for his dastardly deed of bringing about David's death. Saul said, "I will give her to him...so that she may be a snare to him and so that the hand of the Philistines may be against him." (v. 20).
Now I have to wonder just what it was about Michal that he thought would be a snare to David? It is true that in many cases a woman can be the downfall of a man. On the other hand, the old saying is still true: "Behind every successful man there is a good woman." Yep. A woman is indeed a powerful tool! If she is good, she can be a tremendous influence for good with her husband. If she is wicked, she can bring about terrible atrocities from her husband. Remember Jezebel? Somehow, however, I think that Michal was not of the Jezebel variety. Perhaps it was just that Saul thought that her great beauty and sweetness would distract David from the main focus of his life -- serving his God. Any distraction could bring about carelessness in battle on David's part and result in his death.
Foiled again! Saul must be gnashing his teeth by now! David again resists the offer of the king's daughter, saying, "Do you think it is a small matter to become the king's son-in-law? I'm only a poor man and little known." (v. 23). There it is again. Humility serves as a shield against great danger in the life of David. Humility is also a great shield for your heart and mine against hidden snares that Satan throws our way. What a great lesson we can learn about protecting our own lives and souls!
Long story short: David finally agreed to Saul's stringent conditions in war against the Philistines to win Michal for his wife. But instead of being killed in the battles, David was overwhelmingly successful and came home triumphant to claim his reward. David got his princess! Michal was given to him in marriage! Surely the Lord blessed that union and with it brought Saul's evil plans to naught!
End of story: "When Saul realized that the Lord was with David and that his daughter Michal loved David, Saul became still more afraid of him, and he remained his enemy the rest of his days." (v. 28).
Foiled again! This Old Testament confrontation reminds me a little of the old Looney Tunes cartoon -- "Roadrunner and Wily Cayote." No matter what scheme Saul had to get rid of David, the Lord God turned it around for David's good instead! So, in the end David got the girl, the people in the kingdom of Israel loved David even more than before, and his victories against God's enemies, the Philistines, increased.
So: They lived happily ever after? Well, that is not the end of the story. But it is a really good beginning for David and Michal and for Israel. David is called "the man after God's own heart." Maybe it was his humility and devotion to the Lord that made it so?
Dear Lord, please give me humility for this day. Help me not to think more of myself that I should, but instead to think about others being better than I am. Please use me for good in fulfilling your purposes in this world. Let me see the great blessings that You give me every day of my life. Thank you for my Hero, Jesus Christ, whose blood makes me confident in your Grace and forgiveness when I fall short. In Jesus Name, Amen.
Now it's YOUR turn! Please join in this discussion with your own thoughts and/or questions. It is so encouraging to read your input! You can choose to be Anonymous and sign your name at the end or not, as you choose. Or you can sign in following the instructions on the upper right of the blog. Chris and all who participate will benefit from your participation. Thanks all, and God bless you!
Thursday, February 9, 2012
Freed From Insecurities
I wish you a great day! More than that, I really hope that God blesses you with a satisfying, rewarding life! Hearing from him regularly and responding to his commands and his counsel will lead you there. Today, we're listening for a word from God from 1 Samuel 18. As you read it, do you fit more accurately in David's shoes, Saul's shoes or Jonathan's shoes?
I'm intrigued by the contrast between Saul and Jonathan in regard to their feelings toward David. Two men--both members of the royal family, both with something to lose and something to gain--but two very different reactions to the success of another. David is the new star on the scene. The public loves him. All the papparazzis are pointing their cameras at him. He's on the cover of Israel Today and Jewish People.
Jonathan admires David's outstanding courage and charisma and is inspired to become his lifelong friend. It doesn't seem to matter to Israel's prince that this man is a potential threat to his heirship to the throne. Jonathan lives by the motto "What will be will be." If God has brought a better man than he to lead Israel, so be it. He recognizes that David is a leader of leaders, one who could really take Israel's fortunes to the next level, and he loves him for it.
King Saul is a different story.
Saul was very angry. . . "They have credited David with tens of thousands," he thought, "but me with only thousands. What more can he get but the kingdom?" And from that time on Saul kept a jealous eye on David. (v. 8-9)
It wasn't just that Saul was jealous of David.
When Saul saw how successful he was, he was afraid of him. (v. 15)
God, this story makes me stop and consider what insecurities I may have of my own. Why did David's success and popularity make a king angry, jealous and afraid? Saul was Israel's leader. I know that it is fairly common for us leaders to fear other up-and-coming leaders within our ranks. Those of us who lead can become paranoid that everyone is after our position. We can fear coworkers who are better than us in certain areas or who have more charisma. They threaten our sense of security. We may try to keep them down and sabotage their success out of jealousy and fear.
What you're telling me, Lord, is that all of that kind of behavior stems from insecurity and self-preoccupation. Great leaders attract other great leaders and welcome their contribution. Their primary objective is the success of the organization or project they are leading, and they know that it is wise to maximize the potential of their people. Great leaders make other leaders better. They see them as assets instead of threats. They're excited about the opportunity that those talented people present to learn and grow further themselves. This is the kind of leader that excels and is highly sought after. It is also the kind of person that is generally happy and enjoys what they do.
Security is more internal than external, isn't it God? We try to construct a secure life for ourselves by manipulating and controlling our environment when, in reality, the work needs to be done inside. As long as we're not comfortable with our own strengths and weaknesses, we're tormented by our fear of being upstaged. God, I would rather be like Jonathan in that I trust that your will and your plan will work out best. I want to be inspired rather than intimidated by those who excel to a higher level than I do. I choose to be happy with the person you created me to be. I am thankful for the opportunities that you grant me and I will be content with the role you want me to play. I give any fears and insecurities to you and replace them with your view of me and the security of your love for me. Thank you! Amen.
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I'm intrigued by the contrast between Saul and Jonathan in regard to their feelings toward David. Two men--both members of the royal family, both with something to lose and something to gain--but two very different reactions to the success of another. David is the new star on the scene. The public loves him. All the papparazzis are pointing their cameras at him. He's on the cover of Israel Today and Jewish People.
Jonathan admires David's outstanding courage and charisma and is inspired to become his lifelong friend. It doesn't seem to matter to Israel's prince that this man is a potential threat to his heirship to the throne. Jonathan lives by the motto "What will be will be." If God has brought a better man than he to lead Israel, so be it. He recognizes that David is a leader of leaders, one who could really take Israel's fortunes to the next level, and he loves him for it.
King Saul is a different story.
Saul was very angry. . . "They have credited David with tens of thousands," he thought, "but me with only thousands. What more can he get but the kingdom?" And from that time on Saul kept a jealous eye on David. (v. 8-9)
It wasn't just that Saul was jealous of David.
When Saul saw how successful he was, he was afraid of him. (v. 15)
God, this story makes me stop and consider what insecurities I may have of my own. Why did David's success and popularity make a king angry, jealous and afraid? Saul was Israel's leader. I know that it is fairly common for us leaders to fear other up-and-coming leaders within our ranks. Those of us who lead can become paranoid that everyone is after our position. We can fear coworkers who are better than us in certain areas or who have more charisma. They threaten our sense of security. We may try to keep them down and sabotage their success out of jealousy and fear.
What you're telling me, Lord, is that all of that kind of behavior stems from insecurity and self-preoccupation. Great leaders attract other great leaders and welcome their contribution. Their primary objective is the success of the organization or project they are leading, and they know that it is wise to maximize the potential of their people. Great leaders make other leaders better. They see them as assets instead of threats. They're excited about the opportunity that those talented people present to learn and grow further themselves. This is the kind of leader that excels and is highly sought after. It is also the kind of person that is generally happy and enjoys what they do.
Security is more internal than external, isn't it God? We try to construct a secure life for ourselves by manipulating and controlling our environment when, in reality, the work needs to be done inside. As long as we're not comfortable with our own strengths and weaknesses, we're tormented by our fear of being upstaged. God, I would rather be like Jonathan in that I trust that your will and your plan will work out best. I want to be inspired rather than intimidated by those who excel to a higher level than I do. I choose to be happy with the person you created me to be. I am thankful for the opportunities that you grant me and I will be content with the role you want me to play. I give any fears and insecurities to you and replace them with your view of me and the security of your love for me. Thank you! Amen.
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Wednesday, February 8, 2012
Defeating Your Giants
In life, there are problems, and then there are Problems. Some challenges we face seem monstrous, don't they? Well, today's conversation with God is just what we need to hear when up against an intimidating situation. God's word to us is coming from 1 Samuel 17. It's right there for you and a great read!
After God made a big point yesterday about the need to get our hearts right, today I hear him call me to a stronger faith. The description of David's problem is distant but familiar to me. I haven't ever faced a mammoth warrior one-on-one before, but I have stood in the shadow of some pretty threatening fears. King Saul's words to David expose my own negative self-talk:
"You are not able to go out against this Philistine and fight him! You are only a boy, and he has been a fighting man from his youth!" (v. 33)
God, that's where I have occasionally found myself--rehearsing the reasons why I can't deal with some looming situation or seemingly insurmountable problem or challenge. Sometimes the fears and doubts that creep into my mind are even bigger than the situation itself. I hate those feelings of helplessness.
For forty days the Philistine came forward every morning and evening and took his stand. (v. 16)
That's a long time to be intimidated by the same problem! That's much too long to be stuck, paralyzed by some threat that seems way too big to overcome. Forty days they stood around in fear, unable to act. I may have let certain fears of my own torment me for longer than that!
I hear you reminding me through this story that acting on my faith is what is most needed. Faith will give me courage when I otherwise would be crouching in fear, wishing the problem away.
Saul and all the Israelites were dismayed and terrified. . . . David said to Saul, "Let no one lose heart on account of this Philistine; your servant will go and fight him." (v. 11, 32)
God, it wasn't that David was any stronger or fiercer than all the soldiers, was it? This isn't a Hollywood flick. David wasn't secretly a super ninja. He just really trusted you. The others were engrossed in the problem while he was focused on you. Maybe I need to spend more time alone praying and praising you like David was accustomed to doing and less time soaking in the limited human perspective that saturates my world. I see that faith will give me more courage when others are afraid. And I also see that faith will enable me to step forward and confront the problem head on.
. . . with his sling in his hand, David approached the Philistine. (v. 40)
That's usually the hardest part--that first step forward staring that problem or challenge right in the eyes. There's a time when fears have to be laid aside and I have to decide that I'm not going to let that fear intimidate me anymore. Faith in you, God, will get me out of paralysis mode. And it will give me victory.
David said, "...All those gathered here will know that it is not by sword or spear that the LORD saves; for the battle is the LORD's" . . . So David triumphed over the Philistine . . . He ran and stood over him. (v. 47, 50-51)
No sane person would have thought David had a chance against Goliath . . . unless they knew David's God. Lord, the battle is yours! You will give your servants victory when their faith is in you. I know that not every situation will go as we want it to, but you have assured us of ultimate triumph. No problem is too big for you. No challenge is impossible to overcome. I can find myself standing over that fallen problem. I will use the faith that I have in you to take on and defeat my own personal giants. Amen.
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After God made a big point yesterday about the need to get our hearts right, today I hear him call me to a stronger faith. The description of David's problem is distant but familiar to me. I haven't ever faced a mammoth warrior one-on-one before, but I have stood in the shadow of some pretty threatening fears. King Saul's words to David expose my own negative self-talk:
"You are not able to go out against this Philistine and fight him! You are only a boy, and he has been a fighting man from his youth!" (v. 33)
God, that's where I have occasionally found myself--rehearsing the reasons why I can't deal with some looming situation or seemingly insurmountable problem or challenge. Sometimes the fears and doubts that creep into my mind are even bigger than the situation itself. I hate those feelings of helplessness.
For forty days the Philistine came forward every morning and evening and took his stand. (v. 16)
That's a long time to be intimidated by the same problem! That's much too long to be stuck, paralyzed by some threat that seems way too big to overcome. Forty days they stood around in fear, unable to act. I may have let certain fears of my own torment me for longer than that!
I hear you reminding me through this story that acting on my faith is what is most needed. Faith will give me courage when I otherwise would be crouching in fear, wishing the problem away.
Saul and all the Israelites were dismayed and terrified. . . . David said to Saul, "Let no one lose heart on account of this Philistine; your servant will go and fight him." (v. 11, 32)
God, it wasn't that David was any stronger or fiercer than all the soldiers, was it? This isn't a Hollywood flick. David wasn't secretly a super ninja. He just really trusted you. The others were engrossed in the problem while he was focused on you. Maybe I need to spend more time alone praying and praising you like David was accustomed to doing and less time soaking in the limited human perspective that saturates my world. I see that faith will give me more courage when others are afraid. And I also see that faith will enable me to step forward and confront the problem head on.
. . . with his sling in his hand, David approached the Philistine. (v. 40)
That's usually the hardest part--that first step forward staring that problem or challenge right in the eyes. There's a time when fears have to be laid aside and I have to decide that I'm not going to let that fear intimidate me anymore. Faith in you, God, will get me out of paralysis mode. And it will give me victory.
David said, "...All those gathered here will know that it is not by sword or spear that the LORD saves; for the battle is the LORD's" . . . So David triumphed over the Philistine . . . He ran and stood over him. (v. 47, 50-51)
No sane person would have thought David had a chance against Goliath . . . unless they knew David's God. Lord, the battle is yours! You will give your servants victory when their faith is in you. I know that not every situation will go as we want it to, but you have assured us of ultimate triumph. No problem is too big for you. No challenge is impossible to overcome. I can find myself standing over that fallen problem. I will use the faith that I have in you to take on and defeat my own personal giants. Amen.
Faith tells you that you can touch someone else's life. Sharing this post on Facebook might be one way to do that today. (Click the Facebook button below.) And please share your reflections by commenting below. Sign in first (top right corner) or choose "Anonymous" in the "Comment as" field. Peace.
Tuesday, February 7, 2012
The Heart of the Matter
Are you craving a word from God this evening? I am! Today we will move into 1 Samuel 16. This is where David enters the picture for the first time. Please read this chapter with me and let's see what God may be wanting us to take away from this. This is Michele, by the way, and this is what I hear God impressing upon me:
But the Lord said to Samuel, "Don't judge by his appearance or height, for I have rejected him. The Lord doesn't see things the way you see them. People judge by outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart." (v. 7)
Well, that could be good or bad depending on what you see, Lord, when you look at my heart. It's good because I don't have to impress you with the way I look on the outside, the clothes I wear, the way I do my hair or the shape of my body. But, it's bad because you do see what the real me is all about. There are times when I know I'm not very pretty on the inside. You see my desire to share your love with others but you also see me at my worst when I'm not showing your love. Sometimes even to those I love the most. You see it all! Nothing can I hide from you.
....And the Lord said, "This is the one, anoint him."
So as David stood among his brothers, Samuel took the flask of olive oil he had brought and anointed David with the oil. And the Spirit of the Lord came powerfully upon David from that day on. (v. 12-13)
Did you pick David because you saw him as perfect? I have to think no because you know all and were very aware of the sin David would find himself in as time went on. This is very encouraging to me because even though David was far less than perfect you called him "A man after your own heart". I want to be a woman after your own heart. A woman whose desire for relationship with you is the most important goal in my life in spite of my frequent slip-ups. I want to leave a legacy of faith for those who follow behind me. I want to be real about my imperfections. No hiding and acting as if I'm perfect. Nothing can I hide from you. So, since you see all, I may as well bring my whole self to you and ask you to help me change the parts of me that are less than desirable. That's what David did in many of the Psalms.
One of the servants said to Saul, "One of Jesse's sons from Bethlehem is a talented harp player. Not only that- he is a brave warrior, a man of war, and has good judgment. He is also a fine-looking young man, and the Lord is with him." (v. 18)
What an honor to be thought of in that way. The qualities described here are top notch. God, your awesome presence was obviously evident in David. So much so that the servant's pointed this out in explaining to Saul who David was.
Although you see your children exactly as they are, you continue to love us anyway. That's the good news!
Please share with us any comments that you may have. It's always great to hear how God speaks to each one of us in his Word.
But the Lord said to Samuel, "Don't judge by his appearance or height, for I have rejected him. The Lord doesn't see things the way you see them. People judge by outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart." (v. 7)
Well, that could be good or bad depending on what you see, Lord, when you look at my heart. It's good because I don't have to impress you with the way I look on the outside, the clothes I wear, the way I do my hair or the shape of my body. But, it's bad because you do see what the real me is all about. There are times when I know I'm not very pretty on the inside. You see my desire to share your love with others but you also see me at my worst when I'm not showing your love. Sometimes even to those I love the most. You see it all! Nothing can I hide from you.
....And the Lord said, "This is the one, anoint him."
So as David stood among his brothers, Samuel took the flask of olive oil he had brought and anointed David with the oil. And the Spirit of the Lord came powerfully upon David from that day on. (v. 12-13)
Did you pick David because you saw him as perfect? I have to think no because you know all and were very aware of the sin David would find himself in as time went on. This is very encouraging to me because even though David was far less than perfect you called him "A man after your own heart". I want to be a woman after your own heart. A woman whose desire for relationship with you is the most important goal in my life in spite of my frequent slip-ups. I want to leave a legacy of faith for those who follow behind me. I want to be real about my imperfections. No hiding and acting as if I'm perfect. Nothing can I hide from you. So, since you see all, I may as well bring my whole self to you and ask you to help me change the parts of me that are less than desirable. That's what David did in many of the Psalms.
One of the servants said to Saul, "One of Jesse's sons from Bethlehem is a talented harp player. Not only that- he is a brave warrior, a man of war, and has good judgment. He is also a fine-looking young man, and the Lord is with him." (v. 18)
What an honor to be thought of in that way. The qualities described here are top notch. God, your awesome presence was obviously evident in David. So much so that the servant's pointed this out in explaining to Saul who David was.
Although you see your children exactly as they are, you continue to love us anyway. That's the good news!
Please share with us any comments that you may have. It's always great to hear how God speaks to each one of us in his Word.
Monday, February 6, 2012
Staying in God's Good Graces
Happy Monday After! ...you know, the Super Bowl. It was an exciting game! I like checking out the commercials, too. But I'm a lot more eager to hear a message from the Creator of the Universe today. It won't be flashy or funny, but it will be True and Life-giving. Let's meet God in 1 Samuel 15 today.
This is a riches to rags story. It's about one man's topple from the very top of the ladder to the pits of guilt, regret and bitterness. Saul has come a long way since he was first told he was to be anointed king. Unfortunately, he's gone the wrong direction. He once had God's favor and blessing, which took him from obscurity to the throne. Now, God is removing him as king and his favor is turning to someone else. You and I want God's favor, so it would be wise to tune in to why this happened to Saul.
As I read the story, I hear God saying that, in my relationship with him, obedience is important. It's crucial that I remember who he is and make sure he stays on the throne of my heart. God loves me unconditionally. My acceptance by him is based on my faith in Jesus and his goodness, not my own. But, like any good parent, God's blessings and his discipline are very much connected with how obedient I am.
"Why did you not obey the LORD? Why did you pounce on the plunder and do evil in the eyes of the LORD?" (v. 19)
I also hear him saying that incomplete obedience is disobedience. Saul fell out of God's favor because he just wasn't much into honoring God with his full obedience. He put his own spin on God's instructions. He did part of what he was told to do, but he just didn't go all the way with it. And when he's confronted by the prophet, Saul is all about justifying himself.
"But I did obey the LORD," Saul said. "I went on the mission the LORD assigned me." (v. 20)
Not quite. He didn't see the sense in everything God had instructed, so he did what people do all the time--he ignored those parts. For all of us who have thought God is okay with us just obeying the parts of his Word we personally agree with, this story is a wake-up call. Incomplete obedience is disobedience. But I thought God doesn't expect perfection! No, but he does demand total submission.
God makes a further point: Worship doesn't make up for disobedience. When Saul was confronted, he protests that he was planning to offer a sacrifice to God. And the prophet Samuel gives this memorable reply, later quoted by Jesus:
Does the LORD delight in burnt offerings and sacrifices as much as in obeying the LORD? To obey is better than sacrifice, and to heed is better than the fat of rams. (v. 22)
If I was cheating on my wife, I'm pretty sure she wouldn't be impressed if I said, "I love you" and offered her a kiss. Being at church singing praise songs isn't a way to score points with God, much less if my life isn't fully surrendered to him. He wants the worship of my life to harmonize with the praise of my mouth.
Finally, God exposes the heart of the problem: Pride is the source of disobedience. This observation really leaps off the page:
Samuel said, "...you were once small in your own eyes..." (v. 17)
The unassuming guy that once hid among the baggage at his coronation ceremony is now setting up monuments in his own honor (v. 12). And he's too proud to listen to what God wants him to do.
For rebellion is like the sin of divination, and arrogance like the evil of idolatry. (v. 23)
That's the bottom line, isn't it, God? Pride will get in the way of a relationship with you faster than anything. And pride comes in many forms, some more subtle than others. I know I've been too proud to listen and obey at times. Forgive me for thinking I know better than you what will make life work. I so want your favor on my life. I surrender my life wholly to you. I am willing to obey you completely. By your grace and power, I will do everything that you have taught me to this point. Help me and forgive me when I stumble on the way. Restore me in those moments and get me back on track. You are my King! Amen.
If you think anyone else could benefit from this conversation with God, please share this post with your Facebook friends by clicking the Facebook icon ("f") below. It's quick and easy and could really bless someone you know! Peace.
This is a riches to rags story. It's about one man's topple from the very top of the ladder to the pits of guilt, regret and bitterness. Saul has come a long way since he was first told he was to be anointed king. Unfortunately, he's gone the wrong direction. He once had God's favor and blessing, which took him from obscurity to the throne. Now, God is removing him as king and his favor is turning to someone else. You and I want God's favor, so it would be wise to tune in to why this happened to Saul.
As I read the story, I hear God saying that, in my relationship with him, obedience is important. It's crucial that I remember who he is and make sure he stays on the throne of my heart. God loves me unconditionally. My acceptance by him is based on my faith in Jesus and his goodness, not my own. But, like any good parent, God's blessings and his discipline are very much connected with how obedient I am.
"Why did you not obey the LORD? Why did you pounce on the plunder and do evil in the eyes of the LORD?" (v. 19)
I also hear him saying that incomplete obedience is disobedience. Saul fell out of God's favor because he just wasn't much into honoring God with his full obedience. He put his own spin on God's instructions. He did part of what he was told to do, but he just didn't go all the way with it. And when he's confronted by the prophet, Saul is all about justifying himself.
"But I did obey the LORD," Saul said. "I went on the mission the LORD assigned me." (v. 20)
Not quite. He didn't see the sense in everything God had instructed, so he did what people do all the time--he ignored those parts. For all of us who have thought God is okay with us just obeying the parts of his Word we personally agree with, this story is a wake-up call. Incomplete obedience is disobedience. But I thought God doesn't expect perfection! No, but he does demand total submission.
God makes a further point: Worship doesn't make up for disobedience. When Saul was confronted, he protests that he was planning to offer a sacrifice to God. And the prophet Samuel gives this memorable reply, later quoted by Jesus:
Does the LORD delight in burnt offerings and sacrifices as much as in obeying the LORD? To obey is better than sacrifice, and to heed is better than the fat of rams. (v. 22)
If I was cheating on my wife, I'm pretty sure she wouldn't be impressed if I said, "I love you" and offered her a kiss. Being at church singing praise songs isn't a way to score points with God, much less if my life isn't fully surrendered to him. He wants the worship of my life to harmonize with the praise of my mouth.
Finally, God exposes the heart of the problem: Pride is the source of disobedience. This observation really leaps off the page:
Samuel said, "...you were once small in your own eyes..." (v. 17)
The unassuming guy that once hid among the baggage at his coronation ceremony is now setting up monuments in his own honor (v. 12). And he's too proud to listen to what God wants him to do.
For rebellion is like the sin of divination, and arrogance like the evil of idolatry. (v. 23)
That's the bottom line, isn't it, God? Pride will get in the way of a relationship with you faster than anything. And pride comes in many forms, some more subtle than others. I know I've been too proud to listen and obey at times. Forgive me for thinking I know better than you what will make life work. I so want your favor on my life. I surrender my life wholly to you. I am willing to obey you completely. By your grace and power, I will do everything that you have taught me to this point. Help me and forgive me when I stumble on the way. Restore me in those moments and get me back on track. You are my King! Amen.
If you think anyone else could benefit from this conversation with God, please share this post with your Facebook friends by clicking the Facebook icon ("f") below. It's quick and easy and could really bless someone you know! Peace.
Friday, February 3, 2012
Inquire
As we cruise into another weekend, I'm ready to spend a few minutes hearing from God! I take it you are, too. Thanks for joining me! The part of God's written word that I'm looking at today is 1 Samuel 14:24 through the end of the chapter. I've pondered over it a few times and what my eyes keep resting on are these two statements:
"Do whatever seems best to you," [Saul's commanders] replied.
But the priest said, "Let us inquire of God here." (v. 36)
Saul had a military decision to make. He wanted to finish off the enemy while they were on the run. His army commanders' advice was to do whatever he thought best, while the man of God with him suggested that consulting with God would be a good idea.
There always seems to be a rush of voices telling us to just do whatever will make us happy. I'm thankful for the voices in my life that encourage me to consider what God might want me to do. After all, God loves me compeletely, so I know he wants what's best for me. And he is the only one wise enough to always know what actually is best for me and for the other people affected by my decisions. Thank you for reminding me, God, that it's always to my advantage to see if there is any guidance from you on a matter before I just act on my impulses.
What if everyone did that? Wow, what a different world we'd be living in! It can be difficult at times discerning God's guidance unless it is something that he has spoken clearly on in Scripture. But if we would just follow all the guidance he's given us there, we'd be a lot better off! Thinking about getting even with that hateful coworker who stabbed you in the back? Most of the people in your life might egg you on. What if, before you went there, you stopped and asked God for guidance about it? Maybe he would bring to mind Jesus' teaching to love your enemies and pray for those who treat you badly. How many marriages that end badly could be saved if either or both of the two were seeking God's guidance for how they should treat their spouse? I'm sure you would agree that the world we imagine, the one we long for, would begin to emerge.
It won't ever happen with the world at large, but it can happen in my own world. It has, in fact. And it is the way of blessing. So keep listening to the only voice that points true north. He loves you so much!
You're invited to share your own conversation with God through this passage, or reflect on what I've written. Comment below (choose anonymous in the "comment as" field or sign into your Google account first). God's peace.
"Do whatever seems best to you," [Saul's commanders] replied.
But the priest said, "Let us inquire of God here." (v. 36)
Saul had a military decision to make. He wanted to finish off the enemy while they were on the run. His army commanders' advice was to do whatever he thought best, while the man of God with him suggested that consulting with God would be a good idea.
There always seems to be a rush of voices telling us to just do whatever will make us happy. I'm thankful for the voices in my life that encourage me to consider what God might want me to do. After all, God loves me compeletely, so I know he wants what's best for me. And he is the only one wise enough to always know what actually is best for me and for the other people affected by my decisions. Thank you for reminding me, God, that it's always to my advantage to see if there is any guidance from you on a matter before I just act on my impulses.
What if everyone did that? Wow, what a different world we'd be living in! It can be difficult at times discerning God's guidance unless it is something that he has spoken clearly on in Scripture. But if we would just follow all the guidance he's given us there, we'd be a lot better off! Thinking about getting even with that hateful coworker who stabbed you in the back? Most of the people in your life might egg you on. What if, before you went there, you stopped and asked God for guidance about it? Maybe he would bring to mind Jesus' teaching to love your enemies and pray for those who treat you badly. How many marriages that end badly could be saved if either or both of the two were seeking God's guidance for how they should treat their spouse? I'm sure you would agree that the world we imagine, the one we long for, would begin to emerge.
It won't ever happen with the world at large, but it can happen in my own world. It has, in fact. And it is the way of blessing. So keep listening to the only voice that points true north. He loves you so much!
You're invited to share your own conversation with God through this passage, or reflect on what I've written. Comment below (choose anonymous in the "comment as" field or sign into your Google account first). God's peace.
Wednesday, February 1, 2012
Go For It
The last two posts by Michele and Katrinka were so good and encouraging! And I'm sure that God has more for us today. Let's continue our conversation with our Maker in 1 Samuel 14:1-23. This is another really interesting story! There's so much here to take in.
One of the hardest things in life is learning when to wait on the Lord and when to take initiative towards your goals. I wrestle with that a lot. Sometimes one is appropriate and sometimes the other. This story is an example of initiative.
Jonathan said to his young armor-bearer, "Come, let's go over to the outpost of [our enemies]. Perhaps the LORD will act in our behalf..." (v. 6)
His father, King Saul, was waiting on the Lord with a company of men, inactive and in a stalemate with the enemy (v. 2). Jonathan is a man of action. He has an inner prompting that it's time to take a step of faith, and he is going to do it with or without the army. (He does manage to recruit one other brave soul to partner with him. He isn't so foolish as to act alone.)
I love his courage! "Let's go attack an outpost together! I know we're totally outnumbered, but maybe God will help us. And if he does, look out!" Sometimes you just have to make an advance. You have to eventually end all your deliberations, put your doubts and fears to rest and go for it. And trust that God will be there. And remember this:
"...Nothing can hinder the LORD from saving, whether by many or by few." (v. 6)
No matter how bad the odds may look, if God is on your side you can succeed. Sometimes all he's looking for is a few good men or women, or even a man and a woman, who have the faith to advance.
By the way, just because God is in it doesn't mean that it will be easy and effortless.
Jonathan climbed up, using his hands and his feet, with his armor-bearer right behind him. (v. 13)
Interesting that the writer felt compelled to point out that he had to climb "using his hands and feet." Hmm. What else would he climb up with, his teeth?? Maybe the point is that anything worth doing, even with God's help, is going to require exertion. You have to make your way there like climbing a rock wall--one hand-hold or foot-hold at a time, straining and clawing your way until you reach your goal. Don't imagine that God is going to make it easy. Rarely is that the case. And why not? He wants us to discover the strength he's placed inside us. When we find it and use it for good, we glorify him!
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One of the hardest things in life is learning when to wait on the Lord and when to take initiative towards your goals. I wrestle with that a lot. Sometimes one is appropriate and sometimes the other. This story is an example of initiative.
Jonathan said to his young armor-bearer, "Come, let's go over to the outpost of [our enemies]. Perhaps the LORD will act in our behalf..." (v. 6)
His father, King Saul, was waiting on the Lord with a company of men, inactive and in a stalemate with the enemy (v. 2). Jonathan is a man of action. He has an inner prompting that it's time to take a step of faith, and he is going to do it with or without the army. (He does manage to recruit one other brave soul to partner with him. He isn't so foolish as to act alone.)
I love his courage! "Let's go attack an outpost together! I know we're totally outnumbered, but maybe God will help us. And if he does, look out!" Sometimes you just have to make an advance. You have to eventually end all your deliberations, put your doubts and fears to rest and go for it. And trust that God will be there. And remember this:
"...Nothing can hinder the LORD from saving, whether by many or by few." (v. 6)
No matter how bad the odds may look, if God is on your side you can succeed. Sometimes all he's looking for is a few good men or women, or even a man and a woman, who have the faith to advance.
By the way, just because God is in it doesn't mean that it will be easy and effortless.
Jonathan climbed up, using his hands and his feet, with his armor-bearer right behind him. (v. 13)
Interesting that the writer felt compelled to point out that he had to climb "using his hands and feet." Hmm. What else would he climb up with, his teeth?? Maybe the point is that anything worth doing, even with God's help, is going to require exertion. You have to make your way there like climbing a rock wall--one hand-hold or foot-hold at a time, straining and clawing your way until you reach your goal. Don't imagine that God is going to make it easy. Rarely is that the case. And why not? He wants us to discover the strength he's placed inside us. When we find it and use it for good, we glorify him!
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Tuesday, January 31, 2012
Let Go and Let God
Happy Tuesday to all! This is Michele with you this morning and we are focusing on 1 Samuel 13 today. Please read it with me. It's a great chapter. I feel it's very relevant to my life and the lives of those I love. I bet God will speak to your heart, as well, as you read and ponder what he has to say.
Here is what jumped out at me:
The men of Isreal saw what a tight spot they were in; and because they were hard pressed by the enemy, they tried to hide in caves, thickets, rocks, holes, and cisterns. Some of them crossed the Jordan River and escaped into the land of Gad and Gilead. (v. 6-7)
Why would the Isrealites try to hide? They had just destroyed a bunch of Phillistines. Wouldn't they feel powerful and indestructible? They probably did until the Phillistine army grew to be much bigger than they had ever imagined it would (v. 5). They became terrified of this enormous army of men and decided to hide instead of continue on. Sounds kind of familiar to me! When I become afraid my initial reaction is to run and hide from what seems too big for me to handle. I forget that you have my back, God. Help us not to run when life gets real hard and we can't see our way out of our current circumstances. When we focus on what seems insurmountable we become panic stricken but when we focus on your supernatural power we can continue on with a sense of peace.
Saul waited there seven days for Samuel, as Samuel had instructed him earlier, but Samuel still didn't come. Saul realized that his troops were rapidly slipping away. So he demanded, "Bring me the burnt offering and the peace offerings!" And Saul sacrificed the burnt offering himself. (v. 8-9)
Another common reaction to what seems overwhelming is to take the situation into our own hands. God, sometimes we pretend we are like you because we don't feel like you're doing anything for us. We think we know what's best and forget our place below you. Often times I struggle in determining the fine line between taking appropriate action and waiting upon you. Saul, too. He decided to do the job that only a priest was allowed to do because he got tired of waiting. Not only did he take matters into his own hands, he disobeyed you in the process. Oh Lord, give us the courage to wait upon you and only take action when we know you've called us to. I/we don't want to be disobedient, we just need your help.
Samuel then left Gilgal and went on his way, but the rest of the troops went with Saul to meet the army. They went up from Gilgal to Gibeah in the land of Benjamin. When Saul counted the men who were still with him, he found only 600 where left!....There were no blacksmiths in the land of Isreal in those days. The Phillistines wouldn't allow them for fear they would make swords and spears for the Hebrews. (v. 15, 19)
Uh oh! It seems to have gone from bad to worse. Only a small number of men left and they had no weapons. So like life sometimes. God, you allow us to experience trials and there are times when it all seems like too much. One thing after another and we have no idea why you would sit back and watch us suffer loss and hurt and so many hurdles in this life.
Maybe you allow us to be in a position of total vulnerability so we truly realize that you are our only source of strength!
Please share your comments with us. It's all about growing together and sharing life with one another. Don't hesitate, we really want to know how God is speaking to you, as well. Have a wonderful day!
Here is what jumped out at me:
The men of Isreal saw what a tight spot they were in; and because they were hard pressed by the enemy, they tried to hide in caves, thickets, rocks, holes, and cisterns. Some of them crossed the Jordan River and escaped into the land of Gad and Gilead. (v. 6-7)
Why would the Isrealites try to hide? They had just destroyed a bunch of Phillistines. Wouldn't they feel powerful and indestructible? They probably did until the Phillistine army grew to be much bigger than they had ever imagined it would (v. 5). They became terrified of this enormous army of men and decided to hide instead of continue on. Sounds kind of familiar to me! When I become afraid my initial reaction is to run and hide from what seems too big for me to handle. I forget that you have my back, God. Help us not to run when life gets real hard and we can't see our way out of our current circumstances. When we focus on what seems insurmountable we become panic stricken but when we focus on your supernatural power we can continue on with a sense of peace.
Saul waited there seven days for Samuel, as Samuel had instructed him earlier, but Samuel still didn't come. Saul realized that his troops were rapidly slipping away. So he demanded, "Bring me the burnt offering and the peace offerings!" And Saul sacrificed the burnt offering himself. (v. 8-9)
Another common reaction to what seems overwhelming is to take the situation into our own hands. God, sometimes we pretend we are like you because we don't feel like you're doing anything for us. We think we know what's best and forget our place below you. Often times I struggle in determining the fine line between taking appropriate action and waiting upon you. Saul, too. He decided to do the job that only a priest was allowed to do because he got tired of waiting. Not only did he take matters into his own hands, he disobeyed you in the process. Oh Lord, give us the courage to wait upon you and only take action when we know you've called us to. I/we don't want to be disobedient, we just need your help.
Samuel then left Gilgal and went on his way, but the rest of the troops went with Saul to meet the army. They went up from Gilgal to Gibeah in the land of Benjamin. When Saul counted the men who were still with him, he found only 600 where left!....There were no blacksmiths in the land of Isreal in those days. The Phillistines wouldn't allow them for fear they would make swords and spears for the Hebrews. (v. 15, 19)
Uh oh! It seems to have gone from bad to worse. Only a small number of men left and they had no weapons. So like life sometimes. God, you allow us to experience trials and there are times when it all seems like too much. One thing after another and we have no idea why you would sit back and watch us suffer loss and hurt and so many hurdles in this life.
Maybe you allow us to be in a position of total vulnerability so we truly realize that you are our only source of strength!
Please share your comments with us. It's all about growing together and sharing life with one another. Don't hesitate, we really want to know how God is speaking to you, as well. Have a wonderful day!
Friday, January 27, 2012
Pigheadedness and Punishment
Hello everybody! It is a beautiful, sunny day and God's love is clearly shining here in His world! The chapter for today's thought is 1 Samuel 12. Isn't it great to stop everything for just a few minutes and take time to read and learn from the inspired Scripture? This is Katrinka writing today. It is always an honor to be asked to add some thoughts to the study. May the Lord bless us as we try to gain something from today's reading that will encourage and strengthen us. Please open your Bible and first read the chapter thoughtfully.
Here I see an interesting insight into the character and actions of the great prophet Samuel. He challenges anyone in the nation to bring charges against his integrity or honesty. The people admit readily: "You have not taken anything from anyone's hand" (v. 4). That is exactly what should be able to be said about anyone teaching others the Word of God. To teach one thing and live another is a great sin in the sight of both God and man. Samuel is innocent and proceeds to plainly let the people of Israel know of their sins and rebellious ways against God. He is speaking so directly to the point that, after a graphic demonstration of thunder and lightening and rain which destroys their entire wheat crop, the people cry our in worry and fear: "Pray to the Lord your God for your servants so that we will not die,..." (v. 19).
It is good for us to also be reminded that we all sin and make mistakes in God's sight. We do that because we are human. Otherwise it would not have been necessary for Jesus to come into this world and be sacrificed as the Lamb of God for our sins. When I read this chapter it jumps out at me that here was another example of how God is both a God of justice and of mercy. How blessed we are to have a Great God who shows mercy and patience with us!
Here I see an interesting insight into the character and actions of the great prophet Samuel. He challenges anyone in the nation to bring charges against his integrity or honesty. The people admit readily: "You have not taken anything from anyone's hand" (v. 4). That is exactly what should be able to be said about anyone teaching others the Word of God. To teach one thing and live another is a great sin in the sight of both God and man. Samuel is innocent and proceeds to plainly let the people of Israel know of their sins and rebellious ways against God. He is speaking so directly to the point that, after a graphic demonstration of thunder and lightening and rain which destroys their entire wheat crop, the people cry our in worry and fear: "Pray to the Lord your God for your servants so that we will not die,..." (v. 19).
It is good for us to also be reminded that we all sin and make mistakes in God's sight. We do that because we are human. Otherwise it would not have been necessary for Jesus to come into this world and be sacrificed as the Lamb of God for our sins. When I read this chapter it jumps out at me that here was another example of how God is both a God of justice and of mercy. How blessed we are to have a Great God who shows mercy and patience with us!
"Do not be afraid, . . .
For the sake of his great name
the Lord will not reject his people,
because the Lord was pleased
to make you his own" (vv. 21-22).
No matter how messed up we can make our lives, our Father in Heaven still wants us to be His. We can relate a little bit to this when we think of how we deal with our own children. We love them dearly, but there are times when we cannot ignore them when they flagrantly disobey and disrespect us. We have to give some measure of discipline. That can make us feel uncertain and guilty sometimes. We don't want to hurt the child, and yet, we know for sure that we must not just let that behavior go unpunished. That would only lead to more flagrant disobedience and less and less respect for authority. That actually brings great harm to a child! So it is with God our Father. It is because he loves us and wants a continuing relationship with us that at times He brings about serious repurcussions for our sinful actions.
How deeply appreciative and grateful I am that God is patient with me even when I am strong-headed and stubborn! Looking back on life I think all of us can say that at times we definitely acted out of rebellion in order to get something we wanted. Later, after it is all said and done, we often say, "If I had only known...." I guess it will always be true that "hindsight is better than foresight." But that is not the end of the matter. Here in this chapter Samuel ends by sternly reminding the people:
"But be sure to fear the Lord and serve him faithfully
with all your heart; consider what great things
he has done for you. Yet if you persist in doing evil, ...
you will be swept away."(v. 24).
Dear merciful Father, thank you for sending Jesus to make it possible for us to be washed clean from the sins we have done and continue to do throughout our lives. We are really foolish in our thinking so many times! Please give us wisdom and an upright and honest heart before You. We love you, our Father, and we thank you, our Jesus!" In His name we pray this prayer, Amen.
Thursday, January 26, 2012
Courageous Cowards
Welcome to today's conversation with God! Join me in 1 Samuel 11. If you've ever lacked the courage to step up and do what needed to be done, whether it was apologizing for something, confronting someone, or tackling a big new venture, this text inspires hope.
What God is revealing to me here is the change he brought in Saul. Remember, yesterday we saw how Saul hid in the baggage at his coronation ceremony, trying to avoid the responsibility of becoming king. He was tall but he was also a coward. No wonder some of the people didn't believe in him as a leader! But this turn of events jumps out at me, as Saul hears about a national threat and is dismayed by the spineless response of the populace:
When Saul heard their words, the Spirit of God came upon him in power, and he burned with anger. He took a pair of oxen, cut them into pieces, and sent the pieces by messengers throughout Israel, proclaiming, "This is what will be done to the oxen of anyone who does not follow Saul and Samuel." Then the terror of the LORD fell on the people, and they turned out as one man. (v. 6-7)
How about that? The coward becomes courageous! The shy, timid guy who ran from the spotlight turns out to be a dynamic, effective leader after all! How does that happen? The Spirit of the Lord filled him. He went from thinking only of his own best interests to thinking of God's interests. Something had been going on in Saul's head as he had been out plowing his father's fields, apparently. He had been considering the amazing reality that God wanted to use a guy like him. And when the challenge presented itself with the news flash, something switched on inside Saul's heart. He had let God in, and God went to work.
God, you can turn cowards into men and women of courage. You can make great leaders out of timid souls. Your Holy Spirit is the source of tremendous strength and boldness to step up and respond to the need at hand. No fear can stand up to the courage you infuse us with when we are filled with your Spirit. So please, fill us. Fill me. Help me to inspire courage in the people around me, starting with my own children and my loved ones. Amen.
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What God is revealing to me here is the change he brought in Saul. Remember, yesterday we saw how Saul hid in the baggage at his coronation ceremony, trying to avoid the responsibility of becoming king. He was tall but he was also a coward. No wonder some of the people didn't believe in him as a leader! But this turn of events jumps out at me, as Saul hears about a national threat and is dismayed by the spineless response of the populace:
When Saul heard their words, the Spirit of God came upon him in power, and he burned with anger. He took a pair of oxen, cut them into pieces, and sent the pieces by messengers throughout Israel, proclaiming, "This is what will be done to the oxen of anyone who does not follow Saul and Samuel." Then the terror of the LORD fell on the people, and they turned out as one man. (v. 6-7)
How about that? The coward becomes courageous! The shy, timid guy who ran from the spotlight turns out to be a dynamic, effective leader after all! How does that happen? The Spirit of the Lord filled him. He went from thinking only of his own best interests to thinking of God's interests. Something had been going on in Saul's head as he had been out plowing his father's fields, apparently. He had been considering the amazing reality that God wanted to use a guy like him. And when the challenge presented itself with the news flash, something switched on inside Saul's heart. He had let God in, and God went to work.
God, you can turn cowards into men and women of courage. You can make great leaders out of timid souls. Your Holy Spirit is the source of tremendous strength and boldness to step up and respond to the need at hand. No fear can stand up to the courage you infuse us with when we are filled with your Spirit. So please, fill us. Fill me. Help me to inspire courage in the people around me, starting with my own children and my loved ones. Amen.
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Wednesday, January 25, 2012
Good Posture
Top of the day to you! I pray God's best for your life. If I have learned one thing in mine it's that the way we posture ourselves before God is the primary catalyst that determines the course and satisfaction level of our lives. Today's conversation with God reinforces that truth to me and makes me think about my current posture. With that in mind, why don't you join me in reading 1 Samuel 10:17-27? Is the Spirit of God impressing something on you here?
I see in this short text three different postures that people took before God. First, I see that the nation as a whole wasn't in a good place with God.
But you have now rejected your God, who saves you out of all your calamities and distresses. And you have said, "No, set a king over us." (v. 19)
God had been there for them through amazing times when he powerfully brought them through the worst of situations and delivered them from slavery and brought them into the promised land. But they had gotten over their gratitude and had become demanding of God. Now they see it as his job to give them what they want. God, I'm sure I've been there myself before. I've insisted that I knew what was best for me and expected you to deliver. Forgive me for my foolishness and pride in those moments.
Second, I can't help but laugh when I read this about Saul:
Finally Saul son of Kish was chosen. But when they looked for him, he was not to be found.... And the LORD said, "Yes, he has hidden himself among the baggage." (v. 21-22)
God is calling Saul to take this role of immense honor and responsibility leading his people, and Saul is hunkering down behind the suitcases hoping no one will find him! He's in a posture of hiding from God, trying to avoid answering God's call to service. Maybe that's where you are right now. Taking on his assignments can be scary. Maybe you want to escape the call and take the easier path of letting someone else step up. It's a posture people take when their eyes are on themselves and not on God. It's a posture that holds people back from what might be some of the most meaningful experiences of God they've ever had.
Third, I'm impressed by where Samuel is with God.
Samuel summoned the people of Israel to the LORD at Mizpah and said to them, "This is what the LORD the God of Israel, says...." Samuel explained to the people the regulations of the kingship. (v. 17, 25)
Samuel is the only one in the story whose heart is actually submitted to God. He's in a posture of obeying God. He doesn't like the fact that the people are demanding a human king. It angers him. But because God has told him to go ahead and anoint one, he is carrying out what he knows God wants him to do. That's a really good place to be. That's what it means to love God and live by faith. God, I will by your grace trust you and obey you as I posture myself before you with a submitted heart and life. Amen.
As the rest of the story unfolds in 1 Samuel, we'll see where the posture of the people and Saul got them. And we'll see the honor that God brought to Samuel because of his posture. I can be demanding of God, or I can hide from God, or I can obey God. Three different postures. Three very different outcomes.
I hope you receive the blessing of this post and share it with others on Facebook! Click the "f" icon below. And please build us up by sharing your own impressions and experiences in the Comments section (but sign in first at the top right of the page unless you want to comment as "Anonymous"). Peace.
I see in this short text three different postures that people took before God. First, I see that the nation as a whole wasn't in a good place with God.
But you have now rejected your God, who saves you out of all your calamities and distresses. And you have said, "No, set a king over us." (v. 19)
God had been there for them through amazing times when he powerfully brought them through the worst of situations and delivered them from slavery and brought them into the promised land. But they had gotten over their gratitude and had become demanding of God. Now they see it as his job to give them what they want. God, I'm sure I've been there myself before. I've insisted that I knew what was best for me and expected you to deliver. Forgive me for my foolishness and pride in those moments.
Second, I can't help but laugh when I read this about Saul:
Finally Saul son of Kish was chosen. But when they looked for him, he was not to be found.... And the LORD said, "Yes, he has hidden himself among the baggage." (v. 21-22)
God is calling Saul to take this role of immense honor and responsibility leading his people, and Saul is hunkering down behind the suitcases hoping no one will find him! He's in a posture of hiding from God, trying to avoid answering God's call to service. Maybe that's where you are right now. Taking on his assignments can be scary. Maybe you want to escape the call and take the easier path of letting someone else step up. It's a posture people take when their eyes are on themselves and not on God. It's a posture that holds people back from what might be some of the most meaningful experiences of God they've ever had.
Third, I'm impressed by where Samuel is with God.
Samuel summoned the people of Israel to the LORD at Mizpah and said to them, "This is what the LORD the God of Israel, says...." Samuel explained to the people the regulations of the kingship. (v. 17, 25)
Samuel is the only one in the story whose heart is actually submitted to God. He's in a posture of obeying God. He doesn't like the fact that the people are demanding a human king. It angers him. But because God has told him to go ahead and anoint one, he is carrying out what he knows God wants him to do. That's a really good place to be. That's what it means to love God and live by faith. God, I will by your grace trust you and obey you as I posture myself before you with a submitted heart and life. Amen.
As the rest of the story unfolds in 1 Samuel, we'll see where the posture of the people and Saul got them. And we'll see the honor that God brought to Samuel because of his posture. I can be demanding of God, or I can hide from God, or I can obey God. Three different postures. Three very different outcomes.
I hope you receive the blessing of this post and share it with others on Facebook! Click the "f" icon below. And please build us up by sharing your own impressions and experiences in the Comments section (but sign in first at the top right of the page unless you want to comment as "Anonymous"). Peace.
Tuesday, January 24, 2012
Would They Believe I'm a Christian?
Good evening to all of you from Michele here in chilly Illinois! It's a bit warmer than it's been but not near as warm as it is in Texas. That's for sure! Tonight we will be reading from 1 Samuel 10:1-16. Are you ready to hear from God? I sure am. Read it more than once if you need to. This is what I'm hearing God say as I read:
When Saul and his servant arrived at Gibeah, they saw a group of prophets coming toward them. Then the Spirit of the Lord came powerfully upon Saul, and he, too, began to prophesy. When those who knew Saul heard about it, they exclaimed, "What? Is even Saul a prophet? How did the son of Kish become a prophet?" (v. 10-11)
Why were Saul's acquaintances so surprised that he would be prophesying? Was that not typical behavior for Saul? If you remember back in chapter 9, Saul tried to get out of what Samuel was telling him he had been called by God to do. He said he was from the least important clan. He tried all kinds of tactics to get out of the responsibility that he sensed God was trying to give him. It seems as if he was a selfish man who pretty much kept his focus on himself.
But then, Samuel anointed Saul and informed him of God's calling in 10:1. How awesome that our Lord doesn't always pick the cream of the crop to do his mighty work (see Chris' post from yesterday). I bet Saul was pretty shocked himself to become the ruler over Isreal. After all he had just been searching for some lost donkeys, not seeking to do anything for God.
The verses highlighted above show that others couldn't believe that someone like Saul would be prophesying. It's one thing to personally be surprised that God has called you to something so big, but then to have others question whether it could possibly be true. The thought crossed my mind that there are many people who may know me on a surface level but may not know that I'm a Christian. Would they be shocked if they discovered my love for God? I think about the times when my focus is on myself. When I don't set a godly example for others in the way I do my work or the way I interact with someone who may irritate me. There is always someone watching. Maybe an unbeliever who needs to see Jesus in this world. Maybe a hurting soul who needs someone to invest time in them. Maybe someone who believes that Christians are just like everybody else. I need to always be conscientious of my behavior. I hope that others don't say of me, "Is even Michele a christian?"
Lord, I want to have an attitude of praise at all times. I always want to remember that others are watching me and seeing my actions and my reactions to the things of this world. Please shape my attitude to be more like you as I live out my days on earth. Please send me on the mission that you planned for me since before my birth and give me an obedient heart to follow you. Amen.
When Saul and his servant arrived at Gibeah, they saw a group of prophets coming toward them. Then the Spirit of the Lord came powerfully upon Saul, and he, too, began to prophesy. When those who knew Saul heard about it, they exclaimed, "What? Is even Saul a prophet? How did the son of Kish become a prophet?" (v. 10-11)
Why were Saul's acquaintances so surprised that he would be prophesying? Was that not typical behavior for Saul? If you remember back in chapter 9, Saul tried to get out of what Samuel was telling him he had been called by God to do. He said he was from the least important clan. He tried all kinds of tactics to get out of the responsibility that he sensed God was trying to give him. It seems as if he was a selfish man who pretty much kept his focus on himself.
But then, Samuel anointed Saul and informed him of God's calling in 10:1. How awesome that our Lord doesn't always pick the cream of the crop to do his mighty work (see Chris' post from yesterday). I bet Saul was pretty shocked himself to become the ruler over Isreal. After all he had just been searching for some lost donkeys, not seeking to do anything for God.
The verses highlighted above show that others couldn't believe that someone like Saul would be prophesying. It's one thing to personally be surprised that God has called you to something so big, but then to have others question whether it could possibly be true. The thought crossed my mind that there are many people who may know me on a surface level but may not know that I'm a Christian. Would they be shocked if they discovered my love for God? I think about the times when my focus is on myself. When I don't set a godly example for others in the way I do my work or the way I interact with someone who may irritate me. There is always someone watching. Maybe an unbeliever who needs to see Jesus in this world. Maybe a hurting soul who needs someone to invest time in them. Maybe someone who believes that Christians are just like everybody else. I need to always be conscientious of my behavior. I hope that others don't say of me, "Is even Michele a christian?"
Lord, I want to have an attitude of praise at all times. I always want to remember that others are watching me and seeing my actions and my reactions to the things of this world. Please shape my attitude to be more like you as I live out my days on earth. Please send me on the mission that you planned for me since before my birth and give me an obedient heart to follow you. Amen.
Monday, January 23, 2012
Upgrade Your Life Mission
Listening to God through narrative portions of Scripture requires some different skills than other genres of literature. But I always find so much there framed in the context of somebody's real life. Our conversation continues in 1 Samuel chapter 9. Let's take it in and see what God may show us!
When I think about what I'm going to accomplish with my life, what big projects I may take on, the impact I'm going to have on my world, I sometimes feel pretty small and insignificant. What can I do? And considering where I am and the small things I'm involved in presently, doing something big and having a significant impact can seem pretty out of reach.
As I read this text, I am guessing that young Saul might have felt the same way. His dad has sent him out of the house to go look for the family's missing donkeys with a few of the servants. Some important assignment, huh? So Saul is out there wandering all over the countryside for several days on this dusty excursion. Was this all there was for him to do in life? Was he ever going to get to do something really important, or was he always going to be stuck with the mules?
But by God's purpose and design, Saul's unremarkable quest takes him to a town where Samuel the prophet/priest/judge happens to be making a special appearance. And the text explains:
Now the day before Saul came, the LORD had revealed this to Samuel: "About this time tomorrow I will send you a man from the land of Benjamin. Anoint him leader over my people Israel; he will deliver my people form the hand of the Philistines.... When Samuel caught sight of Saul, the LORD said to him, "This is the man I spoke to you about; he will govern my people." (v. 15-17)
How's that for an upgraded life-assignment? It goes to show, you never know what God might have in mind for you to do in the future! And he knows right where to find you and me when the timing is right. He found Saul out there in the middle of nowhere chasing runaway donkeys!
...Which leads me to the question: What if Saul had thought himself above searching for his dad's wandering livestock and refused? He might have missed out on the surprising appointment God had for him. That's a good reminder to me: Keep fulfilling whatever responsibilities you have now. Be faithful in the unremarkable things and God may choose to promote you to something more challenging and fulfilling later (See what Jesus said in Luke 19:17.)
God, I will trust you with my future. I want my life to mean something more than just keeping comfortable. I want to do great things for you! Thank you for reminding me not to overlook the small things. Amen.
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When I think about what I'm going to accomplish with my life, what big projects I may take on, the impact I'm going to have on my world, I sometimes feel pretty small and insignificant. What can I do? And considering where I am and the small things I'm involved in presently, doing something big and having a significant impact can seem pretty out of reach.
As I read this text, I am guessing that young Saul might have felt the same way. His dad has sent him out of the house to go look for the family's missing donkeys with a few of the servants. Some important assignment, huh? So Saul is out there wandering all over the countryside for several days on this dusty excursion. Was this all there was for him to do in life? Was he ever going to get to do something really important, or was he always going to be stuck with the mules?
But by God's purpose and design, Saul's unremarkable quest takes him to a town where Samuel the prophet/priest/judge happens to be making a special appearance. And the text explains:
Now the day before Saul came, the LORD had revealed this to Samuel: "About this time tomorrow I will send you a man from the land of Benjamin. Anoint him leader over my people Israel; he will deliver my people form the hand of the Philistines.... When Samuel caught sight of Saul, the LORD said to him, "This is the man I spoke to you about; he will govern my people." (v. 15-17)
How's that for an upgraded life-assignment? It goes to show, you never know what God might have in mind for you to do in the future! And he knows right where to find you and me when the timing is right. He found Saul out there in the middle of nowhere chasing runaway donkeys!
...Which leads me to the question: What if Saul had thought himself above searching for his dad's wandering livestock and refused? He might have missed out on the surprising appointment God had for him. That's a good reminder to me: Keep fulfilling whatever responsibilities you have now. Be faithful in the unremarkable things and God may choose to promote you to something more challenging and fulfilling later (See what Jesus said in Luke 19:17.)
God, I will trust you with my future. I want my life to mean something more than just keeping comfortable. I want to do great things for you! Thank you for reminding me not to overlook the small things. Amen.
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