My baby will be 10 in a couple of months. In three years, my house will be full of teenagers. In four my oldest may be moving out... And in ten I will likely be an empty-nester. I've been married nearly half my life, and a mama only one year less. My last blog was addressed to young moms. As I've continued to think about the young/new moms in my life, I began to think about the dads too.
Dear Little Brother,
First, you have a high calling. You get to be a tangible picture of God to your children. Do you know how to do that? Dig deep into His word. Spend the best of your time knowing your God. Pray that He will grow your desire and love for Him. Strive to be eager to talk about the things of God. Model patterns of worship with your local church and in your home. You have a high calling.
Second, your bride has another new name. Mom. And with that name come all kinds of responsibilities and feelings and hormones. I beg you to be patient with her. Remember when you were first dating and you observed her closely? Don't stop doing that. Keep learning her. Pay attention to how much responsibility she's taking on, and if it becomes too much, lighten her load. I don't know exactly what that will look like, but you will. Serve your bride.
Third, for the first few months babies are pretty simple, feed them, burp them, keep them clean and warm. Then it gets interesting... I know you don't want to be the "bad guy" as soon as you walk through the door. But your wife doesn't enjoy being the "bad guy" all day long. And as I told my little sisters, possibly the best thing you can teach your baby is that he or she is a creature under authority. Again, you have the high calling to lead in the discipline of your children. Which sometimes means being the bad guy.
Fourth, your bride really does want you to lead. (I am assuming that I am talking to Christian men who are married to Christian women.) I don't mean come in and lay down the law and then insist on it. But if you think something is important, don't dump the logistics on her. Plan the date night-- including the sitter. When they are old enough, stay on top of them to do their chores. Again, I don't know exactly what this will look like, but you'll figure it out.
Finally, I know you have a high calling. I don't understand the entirety of the strain of that calling. What I do understand is that we serve a God who sustains us for the callings He gives us. If you are feeling overwhelmed, rest in the God who works all things according to the counsel of his will. You cannot screw up His purpose for your child. Work at faithfulness. And when you fail, rest in the God of restoration.
Husbands, love your wives, as Christ loved the church and gave himself up for her, that he might sanctify her, having cleansed her by the washing of water with the word, so that he might present the church to himself in splendor, without spot or wrinkle or any such thing, that she might be holy and without blemish. In the same way husbands should love their wives as their own bodies. He who loves his wife loves himself. For no one ever hated his own flesh, but nourishes and cherishes it, just as Christ does the church, because we are members of his body.
Ephesians 5:25-30
Put on then, as God's chosen ones, holy and beloved, compassionate hearts, kindness, humility, meekness, and patience, bearing with one another and, if one has a complaint against another, forgiving each other; as the Lord has forgiven you, so you also must forgive. And above all these put on love, which binds everything together in perfect harmony. And let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, to which indeed you were called in one body. And be thankful. Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly, teaching and admonishing one another in all wisdom, singing psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, with thankfulness in your hearts to God. And whatever you do, in word or deed, do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him. Wives, submit to your husbands, as is fitting in the Lord. Husbands, love your wives, and do not be harsh with them. Children, obey your parents in everything, for this pleases the Lord. Fathers, do not provoke your children, lest they become discouraged.
Colossians 3:12-21
"Ask, and it will be given to you; seek, and you will find; knock, and it will be opened to you. For everyone who asks receives, and the one who seeks finds, and to the one who knocks it will be opened. Or which one of you, if his son asks him for bread, will give him a stone? Or if he asks for a fish, will give him a serpent? If you then, who are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father who is in heaven give good things to those who ask him!
Matthew 7:7-11
Saturday, December 17, 2016
Thursday, December 8, 2016
To the Young Mama
I read a couple of articles today about motherhood. They made me sad because both belittled the value of children and the value of motherhood. Now please don't hear me saying that every woman should be a mom, or that every mom should have as many children as possible. I don't believe either of those things. But I do believe that every human life is valuable because each one bears the image of our Creator. And I believe that motherhood is valuable because it can be a beautiful reflection of the sacrificial life of Jesus Christ.
I know several young expectant mothers right now. It is lovely to watch them grow and marvel at the life that is growing inside of them. It almost makes me miss my own pregnancy days. Almost...
Dear Young Mama,
First, I beg you to spend time knowing the Lord. You cannot be a faithful wife, you cannot be a faithful mama, if you are not growing in the knowledge of God. Your relationship with Him will fuel you for the sleepless nights and uncertainty that are an unavoidable part of parenthood. Only your Creator is sufficient to carry you through the challenges of raising a new person. Only He has the wisdom you will need to navigate the waters of parenting.
Second, work hard to not put your husband on the back burner. When this tiny new person invades your home, he or she will demand more of you than you can imagine. On those longest days after your baby has tugged at you ALL DAY LONG, it will be easy to dismiss your husband as an adult who can take care of himself. Please, Friend, remind yourself how much you love him. Remind yourself why you love him. And show him your love. Remember, this tiny person has invaded his life too. =)
Third, while it is likely that his every grunt and gurgle fills you with delight. And while you marvel at her every dimple and wave. While his antics are hilarious and her lively personality is enchanting, remember that your baby is not perfect. Your actions with regard to your little person will have far-reaching consequences. And possibly the best thing that you can teach your precious little one is that he or she is a creature under authority.
When my baby was two, she was about the cutest thing I had ever seen! We were visiting my in-laws one evening and she began to throw a fit, and it. Was. CUTE! 😄 My sister-in-law began to laugh, then quickly covered her face and said, "I'm sorry. I know I shouldn't laugh, but she's just so cute!" I agreed, but my husband argued that it was NOT cute. We disputed over the cuteness for a couple of minutes, but agreed that the behavior was unacceptable and needed to be punished. Friend, what is cute at two is rarely still cute at ten. But the behaviors you allow at two set the stage for five and ten and beyond.
Finally, there is great joy in motherhood. There is also great grief. I can't tell you the measure of each that your mothering will contain. What I can tell you is that you have the profound privilege to lay down your body, your time, your comfort, for the good of another. You get to reflect the sacrificial love of the Savior.
Greater love has no one than this, that someone lay down his life for his friends.
John 15:13
By this we know love, that he laid down his life for us, and we ought to lay down our lives for the brothers.
1 John 3:16
*** Note: I wrote this with the ideal situation in mind. If you find yourself in the position of being a single mama, you need even more to lean on your Heavenly Father.
I know several young expectant mothers right now. It is lovely to watch them grow and marvel at the life that is growing inside of them. It almost makes me miss my own pregnancy days. Almost...
Dear Young Mama,
First, I beg you to spend time knowing the Lord. You cannot be a faithful wife, you cannot be a faithful mama, if you are not growing in the knowledge of God. Your relationship with Him will fuel you for the sleepless nights and uncertainty that are an unavoidable part of parenthood. Only your Creator is sufficient to carry you through the challenges of raising a new person. Only He has the wisdom you will need to navigate the waters of parenting.
Second, work hard to not put your husband on the back burner. When this tiny new person invades your home, he or she will demand more of you than you can imagine. On those longest days after your baby has tugged at you ALL DAY LONG, it will be easy to dismiss your husband as an adult who can take care of himself. Please, Friend, remind yourself how much you love him. Remind yourself why you love him. And show him your love. Remember, this tiny person has invaded his life too. =)
Third, while it is likely that his every grunt and gurgle fills you with delight. And while you marvel at her every dimple and wave. While his antics are hilarious and her lively personality is enchanting, remember that your baby is not perfect. Your actions with regard to your little person will have far-reaching consequences. And possibly the best thing that you can teach your precious little one is that he or she is a creature under authority.
When my baby was two, she was about the cutest thing I had ever seen! We were visiting my in-laws one evening and she began to throw a fit, and it. Was. CUTE! 😄 My sister-in-law began to laugh, then quickly covered her face and said, "I'm sorry. I know I shouldn't laugh, but she's just so cute!" I agreed, but my husband argued that it was NOT cute. We disputed over the cuteness for a couple of minutes, but agreed that the behavior was unacceptable and needed to be punished. Friend, what is cute at two is rarely still cute at ten. But the behaviors you allow at two set the stage for five and ten and beyond.
Finally, there is great joy in motherhood. There is also great grief. I can't tell you the measure of each that your mothering will contain. What I can tell you is that you have the profound privilege to lay down your body, your time, your comfort, for the good of another. You get to reflect the sacrificial love of the Savior.
Greater love has no one than this, that someone lay down his life for his friends.
John 15:13
By this we know love, that he laid down his life for us, and we ought to lay down our lives for the brothers.
1 John 3:16
*** Note: I wrote this with the ideal situation in mind. If you find yourself in the position of being a single mama, you need even more to lean on your Heavenly Father.
Monday, November 28, 2016
Feed Your Soul
If you know me well (or read my blog often ;) ) you will notice that food is a common theme in my life. I love to cook! I love to eat good food (taste-bud-tickling or "good for you")! And we have just celebrated one of my favorite holidays! Because PIE! I love the crust. I love the filling. I love the mixing and making. And when it's time for eating, I savor every bite. But unless some pies of the savory variety are included, you can't live on pie alone...
I was recently talking with a little sister in the faith about her wrestling with sin, and I asked her when was the last time she had read her Bible. She responded that she wasn't sure. Then I asked her when was the last time she had fed her physical stomach. It had only been a couple hours. You can probably guess that my next question was, "If you only fed your physical body as often as you are feeding your soul, how healthy would you be?"
So, Christian, I'll pose the same question to you. When was the last time you fed your soul?
Oh, taste and see that the LORD is good!
Blessed is the man who takes refuge in Him!
Psalm 34:8
And he humbled you and let you hunger and fed you with manna, which you did not know, nor did your fathers know, that he might make you know that man does not live by bread alone, but man lives by every word that comes from the mouth of the LORD.
Deuteronomy 8:3
Like newborn infants, long for the pure spiritual milk, that by it you may grow up into salvation-- if indeed you have tasted that the Lord is good.
1 Peter 2:2-3
Jesus said to them, "I am the bread of life; whoever comes to me shall not hunger, and whoever believes in me shall never thirst."
John 6:35
I was recently talking with a little sister in the faith about her wrestling with sin, and I asked her when was the last time she had read her Bible. She responded that she wasn't sure. Then I asked her when was the last time she had fed her physical stomach. It had only been a couple hours. You can probably guess that my next question was, "If you only fed your physical body as often as you are feeding your soul, how healthy would you be?"
So, Christian, I'll pose the same question to you. When was the last time you fed your soul?
Oh, taste and see that the LORD is good!
Blessed is the man who takes refuge in Him!
Psalm 34:8
And he humbled you and let you hunger and fed you with manna, which you did not know, nor did your fathers know, that he might make you know that man does not live by bread alone, but man lives by every word that comes from the mouth of the LORD.
Deuteronomy 8:3
Like newborn infants, long for the pure spiritual milk, that by it you may grow up into salvation-- if indeed you have tasted that the Lord is good.
1 Peter 2:2-3
Jesus said to them, "I am the bread of life; whoever comes to me shall not hunger, and whoever believes in me shall never thirst."
John 6:35
Friday, November 11, 2016
chasing a king...
I do not want to be known on social media for my political views. I personally wouldn't have been thrilled with either outcome in this election. I grew up in a very politically involved family, but while Shorty and I are not disinterested in politics, it does not consume our conversation at regular intervals. It has been interesting however, to begin to have conversation with my children about this election. Tuesday they were all worked up into a dither about how life was going to change if this one or that one was elected. It amused me to see them have such strong opinions with very little evidence! =D
During a particularly dramatic moment, I told them that we were made to long for a king. And the problem is that because of sin we run as far and fast as we can from the one King who can satisfy our longing. As I've watched my news feed the last few days, I've seen evidence of this longing again and again. Of course it isn't phrased that way, this is America after all...
But just any king will not do. We want a king who promises justice. We want a king who will champion the downtrodden and marginalized. We want a king who promotes prosperity. We want a king who guarantees our security. And every four years in the US, we get a procession of candidates who make these kinds of promises. And every four years many of our citizens hang their hopes on one or another candidate. But a president is not a king. And a human can never fulfill all these promises.
Friend, I don't care how you voted. This government of ours is good, but all governments will be corrupted because they are run by sinners. Governments and leaders will come and go. They will fail and fall. If you desire justice, pursue the holy God through whom we know what is just. If you want a champion for those on the fringes of society, turn to the God who changes hearts and cares for those who are most vulnerable. If you want prosperity, embrace the God who sent His Son so that we can have an eternal inheritance with Him. If you want security, trust the One who is able to keep you from all harm. Jesus Christ is the one king who will never fail.
And while we live under corruptible and corrupt governments, do all that is in your power to fight for justice, and to champion the weak, and to work for the prosperity and security of your community.
Arise, O LORD; O God, lift up your hand;
forget not the afflicted. Why does the wicked renounce God
and say in his heart, "You will not call to account"?
But you do see, for you note mischief and vexation,
that you may take it into your hands;
to you the helpless commits himself;
you have been the helper of the fatherless.
Break the arm of the wicked and evildoer;
call his wickedness to account till you find none.
The LORD is king forever and ever;
the nations perish from his land.
O LORD, you hear the desire of the afflicted;
you will strengthen their heart; you will incline your ear
to do justice to the fatherless and the oppressed,
so that man who is of the earth may strike terror no more.
Psalms 10:12-18
You have a mighty arm;
strong is your hand, high your right hand.
Righteousness and justice are the foundation of your throne;
steadfast love and faithfulness go before you.
Blessed are the people who know the festal shout,
who walk, O LORD, in the light of your face,
who exult in your name all the day
and in your righteousness are exalted.
Psalms 89:13-16
The LORD is gracious and merciful,
slow to anger and abounding in steadfast love.
The LORD is good to all,
and his mercy is over all that he has made.
All your works shall give thanks to you, O LORD,
and all your saints shall bless you!
They shall speak of the glory of your kingdom
and tell of your power,
to make known to the children of man your mighty deeds,
and the glorious splendor of your kingdom.
Your kingdom is an everlasting kingdom,
and your dominion endures throughout all generations.
(The LORD is faithful in all his words
and kind in all his works.)
The LORD upholds all who are falling
and raises up all who are bowed down.
The eyes of all look to you,
and you give them their food in due season.
You open your hand;
you satisfy the desire of every living thing.
The LORD is righteous in all his ways
and kind in all his works.
The LORD is near to all who call on him,
to all who call on him in truth.
Psalms 145:8-18
During a particularly dramatic moment, I told them that we were made to long for a king. And the problem is that because of sin we run as far and fast as we can from the one King who can satisfy our longing. As I've watched my news feed the last few days, I've seen evidence of this longing again and again. Of course it isn't phrased that way, this is America after all...
But just any king will not do. We want a king who promises justice. We want a king who will champion the downtrodden and marginalized. We want a king who promotes prosperity. We want a king who guarantees our security. And every four years in the US, we get a procession of candidates who make these kinds of promises. And every four years many of our citizens hang their hopes on one or another candidate. But a president is not a king. And a human can never fulfill all these promises.
Friend, I don't care how you voted. This government of ours is good, but all governments will be corrupted because they are run by sinners. Governments and leaders will come and go. They will fail and fall. If you desire justice, pursue the holy God through whom we know what is just. If you want a champion for those on the fringes of society, turn to the God who changes hearts and cares for those who are most vulnerable. If you want prosperity, embrace the God who sent His Son so that we can have an eternal inheritance with Him. If you want security, trust the One who is able to keep you from all harm. Jesus Christ is the one king who will never fail.
And while we live under corruptible and corrupt governments, do all that is in your power to fight for justice, and to champion the weak, and to work for the prosperity and security of your community.
Arise, O LORD; O God, lift up your hand;
forget not the afflicted. Why does the wicked renounce God
and say in his heart, "You will not call to account"?
But you do see, for you note mischief and vexation,
that you may take it into your hands;
to you the helpless commits himself;
you have been the helper of the fatherless.
Break the arm of the wicked and evildoer;
call his wickedness to account till you find none.
The LORD is king forever and ever;
the nations perish from his land.
O LORD, you hear the desire of the afflicted;
you will strengthen their heart; you will incline your ear
to do justice to the fatherless and the oppressed,
so that man who is of the earth may strike terror no more.
Psalms 10:12-18
You have a mighty arm;
strong is your hand, high your right hand.
Righteousness and justice are the foundation of your throne;
steadfast love and faithfulness go before you.
Blessed are the people who know the festal shout,
who walk, O LORD, in the light of your face,
who exult in your name all the day
and in your righteousness are exalted.
Psalms 89:13-16
The LORD is gracious and merciful,
slow to anger and abounding in steadfast love.
The LORD is good to all,
and his mercy is over all that he has made.
All your works shall give thanks to you, O LORD,
and all your saints shall bless you!
They shall speak of the glory of your kingdom
and tell of your power,
to make known to the children of man your mighty deeds,
and the glorious splendor of your kingdom.
Your kingdom is an everlasting kingdom,
and your dominion endures throughout all generations.
(The LORD is faithful in all his words
and kind in all his works.)
The LORD upholds all who are falling
and raises up all who are bowed down.
The eyes of all look to you,
and you give them their food in due season.
You open your hand;
you satisfy the desire of every living thing.
The LORD is righteous in all his ways
and kind in all his works.
The LORD is near to all who call on him,
to all who call on him in truth.
Psalms 145:8-18
Sunday, September 18, 2016
To War
It has been fifteen years since we were attacked on 9/11. It's been seventy since the Pearl Harbor bombing. And it's been one hundred fifty since we actually had a war fought inside our borders. We have enjoyed unmatched national peace with regard to wars and battles. I personally am entirely unfamiliar with the self-denial and sacrifice that are required for a tribe or nation to be victorious in a battle. One of my grandfathers talks about the rationing during World War II, and how his mother would send him and his sisters in separately to get rations so they'd have two chocolate bars. My sister shared with me recently that women started shaving their legs here in the States because all the silk was being used for parachutes. And I read an article shortly after the switch to Daylight Savings Time this year which stated that one of the arguments in favor of inaugurating DST was to have more resources for our troops in WWII.
Well, I say I am entirely unfamiliar. In fact, the call to follow Christ is a call to war. Not war against another nation or group of people, but against evil at work in this fallen world and against the evil in our own hearts. I have been wrestling mightily with my heart in recent weeks as the Lord has graciously revealed sin in my heart. It is hard. It is painful. It is war. And the only way to win is to fight the pull for comfort and ease, and to follow the Savior's example of trusting the Father. Dear Christian, keep fighting! To War!
Then Jesus told his disciples, "If anyone would come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross and follow me.
Matthew 16:24
Finally, be strong in the Lord and in the strength of his might. Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the schemes of the devil. For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the cosmic powers over this present darkness, against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly places. Therefore take up the whole armor of God, that you may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand firm.
Ephesians 6:10-13
For I do not understand my own actions. For I do not do what I want, but I do the very thing I hate. Now if I do what I do not want, I agree with the law, that it is good. So now it is no longer I who do it, but sin that dwells within me. For I know that nothing good dwells in me, that is, in my flesh. For I have the desire to do what is right, but not the ability to carry it out. For I do not do the good I want, but the evil I do not want is what I keep on doing. Now if I do what I do not want, it is no longer I who do it, but sin that dwells within me. So I find it to be a law that when I want to do right, evil lies close at hand. For I delight in the law of God, in my inner being, but I see in my members another law waging war against the law of my mind and making me captive to the law of sin that dwells in my members. Wretched man that I am! Who will deliver me from this body of death? Thanks be to God through Jesus Christ our Lord! So then, I myself serve the law of God with my mind, but with my flesh I serve the law of sin.
Romans 7:15-25
There is therefore now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus. For the law of the Spirit of life has set you free in Christ Jesus from the law of sin and death. For God has done what the law, weakened by the flesh, could not do. By sending his own Son in the likeness of sinful flesh and for sin, he condemned sin in the flesh, in order that the righteous requirement of the law might be fulfilled in us, who walk not according to the flesh but according to the Spirit.
Romans 8:1-4
Well, I say I am entirely unfamiliar. In fact, the call to follow Christ is a call to war. Not war against another nation or group of people, but against evil at work in this fallen world and against the evil in our own hearts. I have been wrestling mightily with my heart in recent weeks as the Lord has graciously revealed sin in my heart. It is hard. It is painful. It is war. And the only way to win is to fight the pull for comfort and ease, and to follow the Savior's example of trusting the Father. Dear Christian, keep fighting! To War!
Then Jesus told his disciples, "If anyone would come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross and follow me.
Matthew 16:24
Finally, be strong in the Lord and in the strength of his might. Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the schemes of the devil. For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the cosmic powers over this present darkness, against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly places. Therefore take up the whole armor of God, that you may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand firm.
Ephesians 6:10-13
For I do not understand my own actions. For I do not do what I want, but I do the very thing I hate. Now if I do what I do not want, I agree with the law, that it is good. So now it is no longer I who do it, but sin that dwells within me. For I know that nothing good dwells in me, that is, in my flesh. For I have the desire to do what is right, but not the ability to carry it out. For I do not do the good I want, but the evil I do not want is what I keep on doing. Now if I do what I do not want, it is no longer I who do it, but sin that dwells within me. So I find it to be a law that when I want to do right, evil lies close at hand. For I delight in the law of God, in my inner being, but I see in my members another law waging war against the law of my mind and making me captive to the law of sin that dwells in my members. Wretched man that I am! Who will deliver me from this body of death? Thanks be to God through Jesus Christ our Lord! So then, I myself serve the law of God with my mind, but with my flesh I serve the law of sin.
Romans 7:15-25
There is therefore now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus. For the law of the Spirit of life has set you free in Christ Jesus from the law of sin and death. For God has done what the law, weakened by the flesh, could not do. By sending his own Son in the likeness of sinful flesh and for sin, he condemned sin in the flesh, in order that the righteous requirement of the law might be fulfilled in us, who walk not according to the flesh but according to the Spirit.
Romans 8:1-4
Wednesday, September 7, 2016
SSDD
You've probably heard the phrase "same sh** different day". Based on my title, you're probably expecting me to moan about how the same unpleasantness keeps happening in my life day after day after day... but you would be wrong.
A couple years ago, I wrote a blog titled Thank You and spoke briefly about the value of expressing thanks. But this basic event repeated itself with a different kid earlier this week. And I started thinking about how quick I am to get stuck on the yucky stuff, and just skim over the good things. Like when my children are laughing together. Or that I woke up without pain. Or having the strength and brainpower to tackle today's list. Or a chat with a friend. Or sunshine instead of rain (or vice versa!). Or pumpkin spice everything! ;)
Did you know that when you make an effort to be thankful, it is very difficult to be bitter or angry or otherwise unhappy? We sometimes play a game where we take turns listing things for which we are thankful. (Inevitably video games and food are mentioned. =)) It sounds kind of goofy, but just speaking things for which we CAN be thankful cultivates feelings of thankfulness. But more than anything that I listed so far, if you have placed your trust in Jesus Christ for salvation, you can be thankful that you have been redeemed from your sins and have a future with Christ! And if you have not, and you are reading this, there is still time for you to join us in our hope because you're alive. So go practice some thankfulness!
And let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, to which indeed you were called in one body. And be thankful. Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly, teaching and admonishing one another in all wisdom, singing psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, with thankfulness in your hearts to God. And whatever you do, in word or deed, do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.
Colossians 3:15-17
Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.
1 Thessalonians 5:16-18
Oh give thanks to the LORD, for he is good, for his steadfast love endures forever!
Psalms 107:1
A couple years ago, I wrote a blog titled Thank You and spoke briefly about the value of expressing thanks. But this basic event repeated itself with a different kid earlier this week. And I started thinking about how quick I am to get stuck on the yucky stuff, and just skim over the good things. Like when my children are laughing together. Or that I woke up without pain. Or having the strength and brainpower to tackle today's list. Or a chat with a friend. Or sunshine instead of rain (or vice versa!). Or pumpkin spice everything! ;)
Did you know that when you make an effort to be thankful, it is very difficult to be bitter or angry or otherwise unhappy? We sometimes play a game where we take turns listing things for which we are thankful. (Inevitably video games and food are mentioned. =)) It sounds kind of goofy, but just speaking things for which we CAN be thankful cultivates feelings of thankfulness. But more than anything that I listed so far, if you have placed your trust in Jesus Christ for salvation, you can be thankful that you have been redeemed from your sins and have a future with Christ! And if you have not, and you are reading this, there is still time for you to join us in our hope because you're alive. So go practice some thankfulness!
And let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, to which indeed you were called in one body. And be thankful. Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly, teaching and admonishing one another in all wisdom, singing psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, with thankfulness in your hearts to God. And whatever you do, in word or deed, do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.
Colossians 3:15-17
Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.
1 Thessalonians 5:16-18
Oh give thanks to the LORD, for he is good, for his steadfast love endures forever!
Psalms 107:1
Saturday, July 23, 2016
Where's Waldo
I imagine that you are familiar with the Waldo character. Blue pants, red and white striped shirt, beanie, brown hair, and round glasses. Perhaps you've spent hours pouring over pages simply CRAMMED with other characters and objects, searching for the ever-elusive Waldo. Or maybe your children have played the computer equivalent. There were even TV episodes starring him for a while.
If you've spent any time at all searching for Waldo, you know that sometimes he can be pretty hard to find. But once you know where he is he sticks out like a neon light.
I've written before about how every page of Scripture whispers about Christ. And I have encountered that again recently as I've studied Ruth. Most teachers I've heard agree that Boaz is a shadow pointing to Christ because he redeems Ruth and Naomi in the story. But as I meditated on chapter two, I saw SO MUCH MORE than just the climactic purchase of the land and marriage of Boaz to Ruth. You see, just after Boaz meets Ruth, he begins to provide for her in extraordinary ways. First he tells her to stay with his own servants for her safety. There was also an element of security for her in knowing that she can return to glean in Boaz's fields throughout the harvest. He provides her the water that his servants have drawn. Later in the day, he gives her so much food that she is unable to eat it all. And He commands his reapers not only to allow Ruth to glean wherever she wanted in the fields, but even to pull out extra stalks of grain for her to gather. This command allowed her to bring home an unheard of amount of grain that first day, which lightened her burden as she worked to provide food for herself and Naomi.
As I pondered these wondrous ways that Boaz generously provided for Ruth, I was reminded of the ways that Jesus provides for His people.
He is our protection.
Of David. The LORD is my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear? The LORD is the stronghold of my life; of whom shall I be afraid?
Psalms 27:1
The wicked watches for the righteous and seeks to put him to death. The LORD will not abandon him to his power or let him be condemned when he is brought to trial.
Psalms 37:32-33
He is our security.
In him you also, when you heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation, and believed in him, were sealed with the promised Holy Spirit, who is the guarantee of our inheritance until we acquire possession of it, to the praise of his glory.
Ephesians 1:13-14
And I am sure of this, that he who began a good work in you will bring it to completion at the day of Jesus Christ.
Philippians 1:6
He is Living Water for our souls.
Jesus answered her, "If you knew the gift of God, and who it is that is saying to you, 'Give me a drink,' you would have asked him, and he would have given you living water." The woman said to him, "Sir, you have nothing to draw water with, and the well is deep. Where do you get that living water? Are you greater than our father Jacob? He gave us the well and drank from it himself, as did his sons and his livestock." Jesus said to her, "Everyone who drinks of this water will be thirsty again, but whoever drinks of the water that I will give him will never be thirsty again. The water that I will give him will become in him a spring of water welling up to eternal life."
John 4:10-14
He is the Bread of Life.
Jesus said to them, "I am the bread of life; whoever comes to me shall not hunger, and whoever believes in me shall never thirst.
John 6:35
He lightens our burdens.
Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light."
Matthew 11:28-30
And He does redeem us from our sins!
for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, and are justified by his grace as a gift, through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus, whom God put forward as a propitiation by his blood, to be received by faith. This was to show God's righteousness, because in his divine forbearance he had passed over former sins. It was to show his righteousness at the present time, so that he might be just and the justifier of the one who has faith in Jesus.
Romans 3:23-26
In this is love, not that we have loved God but that he loved us and sent his Son to be the propitiation for our sins.
1 John 4:10
If you've spent any time at all searching for Waldo, you know that sometimes he can be pretty hard to find. But once you know where he is he sticks out like a neon light.
I've written before about how every page of Scripture whispers about Christ. And I have encountered that again recently as I've studied Ruth. Most teachers I've heard agree that Boaz is a shadow pointing to Christ because he redeems Ruth and Naomi in the story. But as I meditated on chapter two, I saw SO MUCH MORE than just the climactic purchase of the land and marriage of Boaz to Ruth. You see, just after Boaz meets Ruth, he begins to provide for her in extraordinary ways. First he tells her to stay with his own servants for her safety. There was also an element of security for her in knowing that she can return to glean in Boaz's fields throughout the harvest. He provides her the water that his servants have drawn. Later in the day, he gives her so much food that she is unable to eat it all. And He commands his reapers not only to allow Ruth to glean wherever she wanted in the fields, but even to pull out extra stalks of grain for her to gather. This command allowed her to bring home an unheard of amount of grain that first day, which lightened her burden as she worked to provide food for herself and Naomi.
As I pondered these wondrous ways that Boaz generously provided for Ruth, I was reminded of the ways that Jesus provides for His people.
He is our protection.
Of David. The LORD is my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear? The LORD is the stronghold of my life; of whom shall I be afraid?
Psalms 27:1
The wicked watches for the righteous and seeks to put him to death. The LORD will not abandon him to his power or let him be condemned when he is brought to trial.
Psalms 37:32-33
He is our security.
In him you also, when you heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation, and believed in him, were sealed with the promised Holy Spirit, who is the guarantee of our inheritance until we acquire possession of it, to the praise of his glory.
Ephesians 1:13-14
And I am sure of this, that he who began a good work in you will bring it to completion at the day of Jesus Christ.
Philippians 1:6
He is Living Water for our souls.
Jesus answered her, "If you knew the gift of God, and who it is that is saying to you, 'Give me a drink,' you would have asked him, and he would have given you living water." The woman said to him, "Sir, you have nothing to draw water with, and the well is deep. Where do you get that living water? Are you greater than our father Jacob? He gave us the well and drank from it himself, as did his sons and his livestock." Jesus said to her, "Everyone who drinks of this water will be thirsty again, but whoever drinks of the water that I will give him will never be thirsty again. The water that I will give him will become in him a spring of water welling up to eternal life."
John 4:10-14
He is the Bread of Life.
Jesus said to them, "I am the bread of life; whoever comes to me shall not hunger, and whoever believes in me shall never thirst.
John 6:35
He lightens our burdens.
Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light."
Matthew 11:28-30
And He does redeem us from our sins!
for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, and are justified by his grace as a gift, through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus, whom God put forward as a propitiation by his blood, to be received by faith. This was to show God's righteousness, because in his divine forbearance he had passed over former sins. It was to show his righteousness at the present time, so that he might be just and the justifier of the one who has faith in Jesus.
Romans 3:23-26
In this is love, not that we have loved God but that he loved us and sent his Son to be the propitiation for our sins.
1 John 4:10
Friday, July 22, 2016
The Whole Picture
My family loves puzzles. We like to set up a table with a 500+ piece jigsaw and work on it bit by bit until it's done. If you've ever worked a big one like that, you know that for the most part you can pick up a piece and maybe have a general idea where it might fit, but it doesn't really look like much of anything.
Recently we had to do a dresser swap. Somehow no one's clothes quite fit in the dressers they were using. After several trips for supplies, a few coats of paint, and a full day of shifting, we are all settled again. During the middle of the shifting, one of my girls began to tell me how we "should" arrange things. While her idea wasn't bad, what she didn't know was that I had measured several times and made arrangements for the pieces of furniture that we were lacking. So I told her that she couldn't see the whole plan and she needed to trust that I could see the whole plan and that it was a good plan. As I was speaking, it was as though the Lord was whispering the same things in my ear. "Precious child, you don't see the whole plan. You have no idea how much is involved in the circumstances of your life. But I see the whole plan, and it is a GOOD plan. Trust me."
Dear Christian, I don't even know the full details of my own story, much less the details of yours. But I know the God who is writing both our stories into the marvelous fullness of His great story. The story of the greatest Father who sent His perfect Son to reconcile sinners to Himself through the cross. Then sent the Spirit to live in us and work holiness into our lives. And I know He is GOOD! Whatever trials you may be facing, trust in your Father who cares for you!
Humble yourselves, therefore, under the mighty hand of God so that at the proper time he may exalt you, casting all your anxieties on him, because he cares for you.
1 Peter 5:6-7
For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways, declares the LORD. For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways and my thoughts than your thoughts.
Isaiah 55:8-9
And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose. For those whom he foreknew he also predestined to be conformed to the image of his Son, in order that he might be the firstborn among many brothers. And those whom he predestined he also called, and those whom he called he also justified, and those whom he justified he also glorified. What then shall we say to these things? If God is for us, who can be against us? He who did not spare his own Son but gave him up for us all, how will he not also with him graciously give us all things?
Romans 8:28-32
Recently we had to do a dresser swap. Somehow no one's clothes quite fit in the dressers they were using. After several trips for supplies, a few coats of paint, and a full day of shifting, we are all settled again. During the middle of the shifting, one of my girls began to tell me how we "should" arrange things. While her idea wasn't bad, what she didn't know was that I had measured several times and made arrangements for the pieces of furniture that we were lacking. So I told her that she couldn't see the whole plan and she needed to trust that I could see the whole plan and that it was a good plan. As I was speaking, it was as though the Lord was whispering the same things in my ear. "Precious child, you don't see the whole plan. You have no idea how much is involved in the circumstances of your life. But I see the whole plan, and it is a GOOD plan. Trust me."
Dear Christian, I don't even know the full details of my own story, much less the details of yours. But I know the God who is writing both our stories into the marvelous fullness of His great story. The story of the greatest Father who sent His perfect Son to reconcile sinners to Himself through the cross. Then sent the Spirit to live in us and work holiness into our lives. And I know He is GOOD! Whatever trials you may be facing, trust in your Father who cares for you!
Humble yourselves, therefore, under the mighty hand of God so that at the proper time he may exalt you, casting all your anxieties on him, because he cares for you.
1 Peter 5:6-7
For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways, declares the LORD. For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways and my thoughts than your thoughts.
Isaiah 55:8-9
And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose. For those whom he foreknew he also predestined to be conformed to the image of his Son, in order that he might be the firstborn among many brothers. And those whom he predestined he also called, and those whom he called he also justified, and those whom he justified he also glorified. What then shall we say to these things? If God is for us, who can be against us? He who did not spare his own Son but gave him up for us all, how will he not also with him graciously give us all things?
Romans 8:28-32
Thursday, July 21, 2016
You can't give what you don't have.
I love to read! I love the feel of covers and pages between my fingers. I love the flow of words on a page. I love the smell of the binding and the paper and the glue. I love stories and poems and informational articles and advertisements. I love libraries because they are overflowing with things to read! And I have done my very best to pass this love on to my children. It's not hard. I've read to them since before they were able to do anything except eat, sleep, and poop. I've taken them to the library for preschool storytime. We've tasted the unfamiliar foods we encountered in stories. We've purchased shelves upon shelves of books. It has been very natural for me to share my love of reading with my children.
Sports on the other hand, not so much. I am not athletic. I HATE to run. I was never able to do a cartwheel (despite the best efforts of dozens of adept teachers). If it requires fancy footwork, I'm probably going to injure myself. If it involves hitting a ball with a stick, I can almost guarantee you that it won't turn out well. With most sports I don't understand the basics of the game, so even watching isn't fun!
Christian, have you tasted that the Lord is good? Do you believe that Jesus is what you need above all? Do you feel your need to spend time with Him through Bible reading and prayer? Do you love Him? Because you can't give what you don't have. If you haven't tasted the goodness of the Lord, how can you share it? If you don't believe that Jesus is the thing you need most, there's no way you will convince your friend that Christ is what she needs. If you don't feel your need for Bible study and prayer and spend your time on it, what does that say to your family about the value of your Father? If you love Him, it becomes the most natural thing in the world to share Him. So, taste and see that the Lord is GOOD!
"Hear, O Israel: The LORD our God, the LORD is one. You shall love the LORD your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your might. And these words that I command you today shall be on your heart. You shall teach them diligently to your children, and shall talk of them when you sit in your house, and when you walk by the way, and when you lie down, and when you rise. You shall bind them as a sign on your hand, and they shall be as frontlets between your eyes. You shall write them on the doorposts of your house and on your gates.
Deuteronomy 6:4-9
Like newborn infants, long for the pure spiritual milk, that by it you may grow up into salvation-- if indeed you have tasted that the Lord is good.
1 Peter 2:2-3
I sought the LORD, and he answered me
and delivered me from all my fears..
Those who look to him are radiant,
and their faces shall never be ashamed.
This poor man cried, and the LORD heard him
and saved him out of all his troubles.
The angel of the LORD encamps
around those who fear him, and delivers them.
Oh, taste and see that the LORD is good!
Blessed is the man who takes refuge in him!
Oh, fear the LORD, you his saints,
for those who fear him have no lack!
The young lions suffer want and hunger;
but those who seek the LORD lack no good thing.
Psalm 34:4-10
Sports on the other hand, not so much. I am not athletic. I HATE to run. I was never able to do a cartwheel (despite the best efforts of dozens of adept teachers). If it requires fancy footwork, I'm probably going to injure myself. If it involves hitting a ball with a stick, I can almost guarantee you that it won't turn out well. With most sports I don't understand the basics of the game, so even watching isn't fun!
Christian, have you tasted that the Lord is good? Do you believe that Jesus is what you need above all? Do you feel your need to spend time with Him through Bible reading and prayer? Do you love Him? Because you can't give what you don't have. If you haven't tasted the goodness of the Lord, how can you share it? If you don't believe that Jesus is the thing you need most, there's no way you will convince your friend that Christ is what she needs. If you don't feel your need for Bible study and prayer and spend your time on it, what does that say to your family about the value of your Father? If you love Him, it becomes the most natural thing in the world to share Him. So, taste and see that the Lord is GOOD!
"Hear, O Israel: The LORD our God, the LORD is one. You shall love the LORD your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your might. And these words that I command you today shall be on your heart. You shall teach them diligently to your children, and shall talk of them when you sit in your house, and when you walk by the way, and when you lie down, and when you rise. You shall bind them as a sign on your hand, and they shall be as frontlets between your eyes. You shall write them on the doorposts of your house and on your gates.
Deuteronomy 6:4-9
Like newborn infants, long for the pure spiritual milk, that by it you may grow up into salvation-- if indeed you have tasted that the Lord is good.
1 Peter 2:2-3
I sought the LORD, and he answered me
and delivered me from all my fears..
Those who look to him are radiant,
and their faces shall never be ashamed.
This poor man cried, and the LORD heard him
and saved him out of all his troubles.
The angel of the LORD encamps
around those who fear him, and delivers them.
Oh, taste and see that the LORD is good!
Blessed is the man who takes refuge in him!
Oh, fear the LORD, you his saints,
for those who fear him have no lack!
The young lions suffer want and hunger;
but those who seek the LORD lack no good thing.
Psalm 34:4-10
Wednesday, July 13, 2016
Brokenhearted
When I was growing up, my parents were avid news-watchers. While Mommy made breakfast and we got ready for our day, one news program or another was running in the background. The same was true as she made dinner in the evening. Since becoming an adult, I have tried several times to add regular news watching to my routine. I quickly fall away from a regular morning or evening newscast because it seems like nothing but bad news. Needless to say, I tend to catch big headlines a little late.
This was true back in June when the Orlando shooting occurred. The first I heard of it was as we prayed for the victims and their families at church. And it broke my heart. One of my first thoughts was that all those souls, if they had not repented of their sin and trusted in Christ for salvation, were now lost for eternity. Following swiftly on this thought was the horrifying knowledge that there are people who claim the name of Christ who would rejoice over this tragedy.
Fast forward a few weeks, and we have the news of the deaths of two black men at the hands of police, and the shooting of the police officers in Dallas. And my heart is broken again. There are at the very least eight families grieving the loss of a loved one from these events. These were people made in the image of God to reflect His glory, and now they are gone. And in the wake of these tragedies there is hatred spewing from many sides.
Now I am a youngish white girl from Texas, and I don't presume to understand the ins and outs of any of these events. But I will say this, if you claim the name of Christ, there is no place for hatred in your speech, thoughts, or actions towards your fellow image bearers! I don't care how that other person is different from you. You are not the standard. Jesus Christ is. And His standard is love.
The LORD is near to the brokenhearted
and saves the crushed in spirit.
Psalm 34:18
The Spirit of the Lord God is upon me, because the Lord has anointed me to bring good news to the poor;he has sent me to bind up the brokenhearted, to proclaim liberty to the captives,and the opening of the prison to those who are bound;
Isaiah 61:1
The mouth of the righteous is a fountain of life, but the mouth of the wicked conceals violence. Hatred stirs up strife, but love covers all offenses.
Proverbs 10:11-12
Whoever says he is in the light and hates his brother is still in darkness. Whoever loves his brother abides in the light, and in him there is no cause for stumbling. But whoever hates his brother is in the darkness and walks in the darkness, and does not know where he is going, because the darkness has blinded his eyes.
1 John 2:9-11
If anyone says, “I love God,” and hates his brother, he is a liar; for he who does not love his brother whom he has seen cannot love God whom he has not seen. And this commandment we have from him: whoever loves God must also love his brother.
1 John 4:20-21
This was true back in June when the Orlando shooting occurred. The first I heard of it was as we prayed for the victims and their families at church. And it broke my heart. One of my first thoughts was that all those souls, if they had not repented of their sin and trusted in Christ for salvation, were now lost for eternity. Following swiftly on this thought was the horrifying knowledge that there are people who claim the name of Christ who would rejoice over this tragedy.
Fast forward a few weeks, and we have the news of the deaths of two black men at the hands of police, and the shooting of the police officers in Dallas. And my heart is broken again. There are at the very least eight families grieving the loss of a loved one from these events. These were people made in the image of God to reflect His glory, and now they are gone. And in the wake of these tragedies there is hatred spewing from many sides.
Now I am a youngish white girl from Texas, and I don't presume to understand the ins and outs of any of these events. But I will say this, if you claim the name of Christ, there is no place for hatred in your speech, thoughts, or actions towards your fellow image bearers! I don't care how that other person is different from you. You are not the standard. Jesus Christ is. And His standard is love.
The LORD is near to the brokenhearted
and saves the crushed in spirit.
Psalm 34:18
The Spirit of the Lord God is upon me, because the Lord has anointed me to bring good news to the poor;he has sent me to bind up the brokenhearted, to proclaim liberty to the captives,and the opening of the prison to those who are bound;
Isaiah 61:1
The mouth of the righteous is a fountain of life, but the mouth of the wicked conceals violence. Hatred stirs up strife, but love covers all offenses.
Proverbs 10:11-12
Whoever says he is in the light and hates his brother is still in darkness. Whoever loves his brother abides in the light, and in him there is no cause for stumbling. But whoever hates his brother is in the darkness and walks in the darkness, and does not know where he is going, because the darkness has blinded his eyes.
1 John 2:9-11
If anyone says, “I love God,” and hates his brother, he is a liar; for he who does not love his brother whom he has seen cannot love God whom he has not seen. And this commandment we have from him: whoever loves God must also love his brother.
1 John 4:20-21
Monday, July 11, 2016
I'm Dying
FIRST, while this title was meant to grab your attention (as all good titles are), this is not a melodramatic announcement of a bad doctor's report. I'm not physically dying any more than any other healthy thirty-something on the planet.
I got married right out of high school. I was older than I'd ever been before, and felt mature for an eighteen-year-old, but I was a baby. I changed my last name, and added to my familial allegiances. Almost immediately I was assailed with doubts about committing the rest of my life to this other person. And I died a little.
In short order, I was pregnant with our first child. We were elated. I trudged through morning sickness... and swollen ankles... and all-around discomfort... Then I gave birth, and zombied my way through breastfeeding, and dirty diapers, and sleep deprivation. Then I did it again three more times. And I died a little.
As my children grew, they began to take interest in things that hold absolutely NO appeal for me. But I attended ball games, and played video games, and read books, and splashed in COLD water because they asked, even though I would rather have spent those moments doing other things. And I died a little.
And when I fix that last taco after the children have already made PBJ sandwiches, but one of them says, "Oh! I love tacos! Will you trade with me?" And I say yes this time. I die a little.
Or when there is finally a quiet moment and I have settled in with a cup of coffee and a book. Then the silence is broken by "Mama?", or "Sweetie?" And I respond by putting down my coffee and my book and serving one more time... I die a little.
The list could go on, and if you're reading this, you can probably think of dozens of moments of your own. If we dwell on all we've given up, we could end up feeling really morbid and depressed. But as I thought about and looked up verses that talk about dying (I was actually thinking there was a verse that says to "die to self"), I was so encouraged! We're not just supposed to die. We're supposed to die to sin so that we can LIVE!
He himself bore our sins in his body on the tree, that we might die to sin and live to righteousness. By his wounds you have been healed.
1 Peter 2:24
What shall we say then? Are we to continue in sin that grace may abound? By no means! How can we who died to sin still live in it? Do you not know that all of us who have been baptized into Christ Jesus were baptized into his death? We were buried therefore with him by baptism into death, in order that, just as Christ was raised from the dead by the glory of the Father, we too might walk in newness of life. For if we have been united with him in a death like his, we shall certainly be united with him in a resurrection like his.
Romans 6:1-5
Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come. All this is from God, who through Christ reconciled us to himself and gave us the ministry of reconciliation; that is, in Christ God was reconciling the world to himself, not counting their trespasses against them, and entrusting to us the message of reconciliation. Therefore, we are ambassadors for Christ, God making his appeal through us. We implore you on behalf of Christ, be reconciled to God. For our sake he made him to be sin who knew no sin, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God.
2 Corinthians 5:17-21
And we all, with unveiled face, beholding the glory of the Lord, are being transformed into the same image from one degree of glory to another. For this comes from the Lord who is the Spirit.
2 Corinthians 3:18
So we do not lose heart. Though our outer self is wasting away, our inner self is being renewed day by day. For this light momentary affliction is preparing for us an eternal weight of glory beyond all comparison,
2 Corinthians 4:16-17
I got married right out of high school. I was older than I'd ever been before, and felt mature for an eighteen-year-old, but I was a baby. I changed my last name, and added to my familial allegiances. Almost immediately I was assailed with doubts about committing the rest of my life to this other person. And I died a little.
In short order, I was pregnant with our first child. We were elated. I trudged through morning sickness... and swollen ankles... and all-around discomfort... Then I gave birth, and zombied my way through breastfeeding, and dirty diapers, and sleep deprivation. Then I did it again three more times. And I died a little.
As my children grew, they began to take interest in things that hold absolutely NO appeal for me. But I attended ball games, and played video games, and read books, and splashed in COLD water because they asked, even though I would rather have spent those moments doing other things. And I died a little.
And when I fix that last taco after the children have already made PBJ sandwiches, but one of them says, "Oh! I love tacos! Will you trade with me?" And I say yes this time. I die a little.
Or when there is finally a quiet moment and I have settled in with a cup of coffee and a book. Then the silence is broken by "Mama?", or "Sweetie?" And I respond by putting down my coffee and my book and serving one more time... I die a little.
The list could go on, and if you're reading this, you can probably think of dozens of moments of your own. If we dwell on all we've given up, we could end up feeling really morbid and depressed. But as I thought about and looked up verses that talk about dying (I was actually thinking there was a verse that says to "die to self"), I was so encouraged! We're not just supposed to die. We're supposed to die to sin so that we can LIVE!
He himself bore our sins in his body on the tree, that we might die to sin and live to righteousness. By his wounds you have been healed.
1 Peter 2:24
What shall we say then? Are we to continue in sin that grace may abound? By no means! How can we who died to sin still live in it? Do you not know that all of us who have been baptized into Christ Jesus were baptized into his death? We were buried therefore with him by baptism into death, in order that, just as Christ was raised from the dead by the glory of the Father, we too might walk in newness of life. For if we have been united with him in a death like his, we shall certainly be united with him in a resurrection like his.
Romans 6:1-5
Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come. All this is from God, who through Christ reconciled us to himself and gave us the ministry of reconciliation; that is, in Christ God was reconciling the world to himself, not counting their trespasses against them, and entrusting to us the message of reconciliation. Therefore, we are ambassadors for Christ, God making his appeal through us. We implore you on behalf of Christ, be reconciled to God. For our sake he made him to be sin who knew no sin, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God.
2 Corinthians 5:17-21
And we all, with unveiled face, beholding the glory of the Lord, are being transformed into the same image from one degree of glory to another. For this comes from the Lord who is the Spirit.
2 Corinthians 3:18
So we do not lose heart. Though our outer self is wasting away, our inner self is being renewed day by day. For this light momentary affliction is preparing for us an eternal weight of glory beyond all comparison,
2 Corinthians 4:16-17
Thursday, June 30, 2016
What a Waste
When I was a kid I thought my Mommy was pretty amazing-- at least when I stopped to think about it. She poured out her time, her energy, her life, to benefit our family. On Mother's Day when I was ten, the pastor asked us what we wanted to be when we grew up. I responded that I wanted to be a mom. So twenty years later I'm living my dream. Except its not exactly what I'd envisioned. The days are longer. The nights are shorter. The laundry is bigger and smellier. Cooking gets tedious and monotonous. And I often feel like my instruction is just wasted breath.
And in those moments I believe a lie. Ever since high school, there have been people in my life who have told me that using my skills and talents at home is a waste. I've heard that I'm too smart to waste my brain raising my kids. I've heard that I'm wasting my most productive years by staying out of the work force to serve my family. And when all I see is what I think I'm NOT accomplishing, I believe that my life is a waste.
Dear Sister, if you feel that pull in your heart (whether you stay at home to work, or add outside work to your life as well) hear the words of our God. What you are doing right now (as long as it isn't sin) is exactly what God wants you to be doing. And He NEVER wastes anything!
Only let each person lead the life that the Lord has assigned to him, and to which God has called him. This is my rule in all the churches. Was anyone at the time of his call already circumcised? Let him not seek to remove the marks of circumcision. Was anyone at the time of his call uncircumcised? Let him not seek circumcision. For neither circumcision counts for anything nor uncircumcision, but keeping the commandments of God. Each one should remain in the condition in which he was called. Were you a slave when called? Do not be concerned about it. (But if you can gain your freedom, avail yourself of the opportunity.) For he who was called in the Lord as a slave is a freedman of the Lord. Likewise he who was free when called is a slave of Christ. You were bought with a price; do not become slaves of men. So, brothers, in whatever condition each was called, there let him remain with God.
1 Corinthians 7:17-24
For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways, declares the LORD. For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways and my thoughts than your thoughts. "For as the rain and the snow come down from heaven and do not return there but water the earth, making it bring forth and sprout, giving seed to the sower and bread to the eater, so shall my word be that goes out from my mouth; it shall not return to me empty, but it shall accomplish that which I purpose, and shall succeed in the thing for which I sent it.
Isaiah 55:8-11
And in those moments I believe a lie. Ever since high school, there have been people in my life who have told me that using my skills and talents at home is a waste. I've heard that I'm too smart to waste my brain raising my kids. I've heard that I'm wasting my most productive years by staying out of the work force to serve my family. And when all I see is what I think I'm NOT accomplishing, I believe that my life is a waste.
Dear Sister, if you feel that pull in your heart (whether you stay at home to work, or add outside work to your life as well) hear the words of our God. What you are doing right now (as long as it isn't sin) is exactly what God wants you to be doing. And He NEVER wastes anything!
Only let each person lead the life that the Lord has assigned to him, and to which God has called him. This is my rule in all the churches. Was anyone at the time of his call already circumcised? Let him not seek to remove the marks of circumcision. Was anyone at the time of his call uncircumcised? Let him not seek circumcision. For neither circumcision counts for anything nor uncircumcision, but keeping the commandments of God. Each one should remain in the condition in which he was called. Were you a slave when called? Do not be concerned about it. (But if you can gain your freedom, avail yourself of the opportunity.) For he who was called in the Lord as a slave is a freedman of the Lord. Likewise he who was free when called is a slave of Christ. You were bought with a price; do not become slaves of men. So, brothers, in whatever condition each was called, there let him remain with God.
1 Corinthians 7:17-24
For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways, declares the LORD. For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways and my thoughts than your thoughts. "For as the rain and the snow come down from heaven and do not return there but water the earth, making it bring forth and sprout, giving seed to the sower and bread to the eater, so shall my word be that goes out from my mouth; it shall not return to me empty, but it shall accomplish that which I purpose, and shall succeed in the thing for which I sent it.
Isaiah 55:8-11
Tuesday, June 21, 2016
Never-changing
Shorty's and my fifteenth anniversary came and went earlier this month. I would say we celebrated, but since he's working crazy-long hours right now we really didn't see much of one another. Fifteen years is kind of a long time. Right now it's almost half my life. I've learned a few things about him over the years. For example, it took me thirteen years to learn that he LOVES roast turkey (think Thanksgiving dinner). However, it's kind of frustrating to THINK I've learned something only to find out later that I misunderstood-- or he changed his mind. Like when I was sure that he'd told me that he doesn't like sauteed onions and bell peppers at breakfast, but when I shared that with someone else he was offended and insisted that he does like them. I know he's had a similar feeling towards me. In fact, I have yet to meet a couple who have been married more than a few years that HAVEN'T experienced this. No matter how well we know one another, our knowledge is subject to change because we change.
As I thought about this, I was so thankful that our relationship with the Lord isn't like that. Once you learn something about Him (as long as it is true) it will NEVER change. So you've learned that God is loving... He will ALWAYS be loving. Or you've learned that He doesn't need sleep... He will NEVER need sleep. Or you've learned that He is the source of life... He will never cease to be the source of life. This is a comfort, but only insofar as what you know of Him is really true. So dig into the Word, and get to know the never-changing God.
Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of lights with whom there is no variation or shadow due to change.
James 1:17
God is not man, that he should lie, or a son of man, that he should change his mind. Has he said, and will he not do it? Or has he spoken, and will he not fulfill it?
Numbers 23:19
Of old you laid the foundation of the earth, and the heavens are the work of your hands. They will perish, but you will remain; they will all wear out like a garment. You will change them like a robe, and they will pass away, but you are the same, and your years have no end.
Psalm 102:25-27
Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever.
Hebrews 13:8
As I thought about this, I was so thankful that our relationship with the Lord isn't like that. Once you learn something about Him (as long as it is true) it will NEVER change. So you've learned that God is loving... He will ALWAYS be loving. Or you've learned that He doesn't need sleep... He will NEVER need sleep. Or you've learned that He is the source of life... He will never cease to be the source of life. This is a comfort, but only insofar as what you know of Him is really true. So dig into the Word, and get to know the never-changing God.
Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of lights with whom there is no variation or shadow due to change.
James 1:17
God is not man, that he should lie, or a son of man, that he should change his mind. Has he said, and will he not do it? Or has he spoken, and will he not fulfill it?
Numbers 23:19
Of old you laid the foundation of the earth, and the heavens are the work of your hands. They will perish, but you will remain; they will all wear out like a garment. You will change them like a robe, and they will pass away, but you are the same, and your years have no end.
Psalm 102:25-27
Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever.
Hebrews 13:8
Monday, June 20, 2016
Sweet Dreams
I sometimes have terrible nightmares. The kind where you wake up with your heart hammering and your clothes drenched in sweat. The kind where it takes a few minutes (or more) to be sure that the dream was truly that-- a dream. And I have suffered from them as long as I can remember. As a kid, I would wake Mommy up and then sleep next to her bed for the remainder of the night. As a teen I decided that I was too old to wake my parents for a nightmare, so I began to dig into my Bible. At first, I just remembered having heard that the Bible says that God never sleeps, so I prayed. I prayed that he would keep me and my family safe. I prayed that he would calm my heart. I prayed that he would help me believe that my dreams weren't real. And eventually I would fall back asleep. But as I read, I found verses that talked about God giving sleep and rest to those He loves. And my most favoritest:
I will lie down and sleep in peace, for you alone, O LORD, make me dwell in safety.
Psalm 4:8 (NIV)
That one verse tackled all my nighttime fears. And for the next several years allowed me to sleep mostly peacefully.
But then I grew up, and very quickly became a mom times four. Now my nighttime fears typically center around the safety of my family. Sometimes, rather than nightmares in my sleep, I lie awake and imagine all the possible worsts. (I know, that's a terrible waste of time and energy and sleep and imagination!) But God is so gracious, and has provided a new Psalm to tackle these adapted worries.
A Song of Ascents. Of Solomon. Unless the LORD builds the house, those who build it labor in vain. Unless the LORD watches over the city, the watchman stays awake in vain. It is in vain that you rise up early and go late to rest, eating the bread of anxious toil; for he gives to his beloved sleep.
Psalms 127:1-2
And still...
In peace I will both lie down and sleep; for you alone, O LORD, make me dwell in safety.
Psalms 4:8
I will lie down and sleep in peace, for you alone, O LORD, make me dwell in safety.
Psalm 4:8 (NIV)
That one verse tackled all my nighttime fears. And for the next several years allowed me to sleep mostly peacefully.
But then I grew up, and very quickly became a mom times four. Now my nighttime fears typically center around the safety of my family. Sometimes, rather than nightmares in my sleep, I lie awake and imagine all the possible worsts. (I know, that's a terrible waste of time and energy and sleep and imagination!) But God is so gracious, and has provided a new Psalm to tackle these adapted worries.
A Song of Ascents. Of Solomon. Unless the LORD builds the house, those who build it labor in vain. Unless the LORD watches over the city, the watchman stays awake in vain. It is in vain that you rise up early and go late to rest, eating the bread of anxious toil; for he gives to his beloved sleep.
Psalms 127:1-2
And still...
In peace I will both lie down and sleep; for you alone, O LORD, make me dwell in safety.
Psalms 4:8
Sunday, June 19, 2016
Weeds
When I was very small, still first or second grade, my family had a big garden. I can remember Mommy and Daddy spending hours tilling, planting, and weeding our garden spot. As I watched them weeding, I noticed that there were A LOT of plants that were "weeds" in the garden. Having always been an information collector and word person, I asked what "weed" meant. Given the context (our garden) my parents told me that a weed is "any plant growing somewhere you don't want it". I had earlier asked why we were pulling grass out of the garden, because we wanted grass in the yard, so this definition cleared up all my confusion.
weed: noun 1. a valueless plant growing wild, especially one that grows on cultivated ground to the exclusion or injury of the desired crop
Shorty and I don't have a garden. I'm not really an outside person. But we do have a yard. While there is some nice grass, we have large chunks of weeds or bare dirt. We would like better grass and fewer bare spots, but at present we don't think it wise to devote our resources to cultivating the lawn. And weeds flourish with no cultivation whatsoever, so they can be quite difficult to remove.
I've been really battling with bitterness and self-pity recently. There are a number of circumstances I could describe, and others that I can't, which revealed this to me. I learned a number of years ago that the best way for me to fight bitterness and self-pity in my heart is to intentionally think on things for which I am thankful. Sometimes that is extremely hard! It's actually kind of like weeding a lawn or garden. Thankfulness can flourish and spread in my still-sinful heart, but not nearly as easily as bitterness. Like with my lawn, I have to be intentional to feed thankfulness (the grass) and starve or tear out bitterness and self-pity (weeds). Again, this is hard! If you've ever pulled weeds from lawn or garden, you know that their roots tend to be very long, sometimes with lots of littler roots branching off, sometimes even corkscrewing into the earth. Dear Christian, the sin in our hearts is like that. In fact, it often feels to me like I'm just getting the tops of the weeds, or maybe part of the root, while the rest sits, waiting for another opportunity to sprout. So we keep fighting. I keep battling for thankfulness. And so must you.
See to it that no one fails to obtain the grace of God; that no "root of bitterness" springs up and causes trouble, and by it many become defiled;
Hebrews 12:15
Put to death therefore what is earthly in you: sexual immorality, impurity, passion, evil desire, and covetousness, which is idolatry. On account of these the wrath of God is coming. In these you too once walked, when you were living in them. But now you must put them all away: anger, wrath, malice, slander, and obscene talk from your mouth. Do not lie to one another, seeing that you have put off the old self with its practices and have put on the new self, which is being renewed in knowledge after the image of its creator.
Colossians 3:5-10
Put on then, as God's chosen ones, holy and beloved, compassionate hearts, kindness, humility, meekness, and patience, bearing with one another and, if one has a complaint against another, forgiving each other; as the Lord has forgiven you, so you also must forgive. And above all these put on love, which binds everything together in perfect harmony. And let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, to which indeed you were called in one body. And be thankful. Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly, teaching and admonishing one another in all wisdom, singing psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, with thankfulness in your hearts to God. And whatever you do, in word or deed, do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.
Colossians 3:12-17
And I am sure of this, that he who began a good work in you will bring it to completion at the day of Jesus Christ.
Philippians 1:6
weed: noun 1. a valueless plant growing wild, especially one that grows on cultivated ground to the exclusion or injury of the desired crop
Shorty and I don't have a garden. I'm not really an outside person. But we do have a yard. While there is some nice grass, we have large chunks of weeds or bare dirt. We would like better grass and fewer bare spots, but at present we don't think it wise to devote our resources to cultivating the lawn. And weeds flourish with no cultivation whatsoever, so they can be quite difficult to remove.
I've been really battling with bitterness and self-pity recently. There are a number of circumstances I could describe, and others that I can't, which revealed this to me. I learned a number of years ago that the best way for me to fight bitterness and self-pity in my heart is to intentionally think on things for which I am thankful. Sometimes that is extremely hard! It's actually kind of like weeding a lawn or garden. Thankfulness can flourish and spread in my still-sinful heart, but not nearly as easily as bitterness. Like with my lawn, I have to be intentional to feed thankfulness (the grass) and starve or tear out bitterness and self-pity (weeds). Again, this is hard! If you've ever pulled weeds from lawn or garden, you know that their roots tend to be very long, sometimes with lots of littler roots branching off, sometimes even corkscrewing into the earth. Dear Christian, the sin in our hearts is like that. In fact, it often feels to me like I'm just getting the tops of the weeds, or maybe part of the root, while the rest sits, waiting for another opportunity to sprout. So we keep fighting. I keep battling for thankfulness. And so must you.
See to it that no one fails to obtain the grace of God; that no "root of bitterness" springs up and causes trouble, and by it many become defiled;
Hebrews 12:15
Put to death therefore what is earthly in you: sexual immorality, impurity, passion, evil desire, and covetousness, which is idolatry. On account of these the wrath of God is coming. In these you too once walked, when you were living in them. But now you must put them all away: anger, wrath, malice, slander, and obscene talk from your mouth. Do not lie to one another, seeing that you have put off the old self with its practices and have put on the new self, which is being renewed in knowledge after the image of its creator.
Colossians 3:5-10
Put on then, as God's chosen ones, holy and beloved, compassionate hearts, kindness, humility, meekness, and patience, bearing with one another and, if one has a complaint against another, forgiving each other; as the Lord has forgiven you, so you also must forgive. And above all these put on love, which binds everything together in perfect harmony. And let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, to which indeed you were called in one body. And be thankful. Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly, teaching and admonishing one another in all wisdom, singing psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, with thankfulness in your hearts to God. And whatever you do, in word or deed, do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.
Colossians 3:12-17
And I am sure of this, that he who began a good work in you will bring it to completion at the day of Jesus Christ.
Philippians 1:6
Saturday, June 18, 2016
Interruptions and Distractions
Four years ago I listened to every session from The Gospel Coalition's women's conference when it became available online. Two years ago I was elated to get to attend. This year, due to a number of circumstances, I was unable to go. I am thankful that because of technology I have been able (mostly) to"attend" from a distance.
There are definite drawbacks to this type of attendance. If I had travelled to Indianapolis, I would have made preparation for my family's needs in my absence BEFORE I left. So there would have been no further need for me to think about laundry and meals and children's schedules for these three days. As it is, my attention has been very divided between the conference and all the responsibilities of home.
Since my Crew are big kids, I told them that I would be in my room watching if they needed something. A funny thing happens when I am "unavailable" to my children. Suddenly the umbilical cord reattaches and they NEED to be in my presence to survive! 😄 (If you're a mom, you've probably experienced this phenomenon as well.) So in addition to the distractions, my children provided frequent interruptions as I tried to focus on the sessions.
Having properly attended the conference a couple of years ago, I know that there are still distractions and interruptions if you are there in person, but they tend to be minimized. So this weekend has been a very sharp illustration for me of the need to be intentional and focus on spending time with the Lord. As moms, as adults, as teenage women, even as young girls, there are a million things that we can see and touch and hear which scream for our attention. The question becomes, what is truly important? What will matter and last when I finally see the face of my Savior?
In one of the sessions I listened to four years ago, I heard this quote, "When judgment day comes, we will regret the waste of a single moment not used for the glory of Christ. We will not, however, regret one moment spent studying God's word and hiding it in our hearts. We will only wish we'd spent more moments doing so." That thought has spurred me into the Scriptures more than any other since I heard it. So I beg you, dear Sister, hear the Word of the Lord.
Be still, and know that I am God.
I will be exalted among the nations,
I will be exalted in the earth.
Psalm 46:10
The LORD is exalted, for he dwells on high;
he will fill Zion with justice and righteousness,
and he will be the stability of your times,
abundance of salvation, wisdom, and knowledge;
the fear of the LORD is Zion's treasure.
Isaiah 33:5-6
There are definite drawbacks to this type of attendance. If I had travelled to Indianapolis, I would have made preparation for my family's needs in my absence BEFORE I left. So there would have been no further need for me to think about laundry and meals and children's schedules for these three days. As it is, my attention has been very divided between the conference and all the responsibilities of home.
Since my Crew are big kids, I told them that I would be in my room watching if they needed something. A funny thing happens when I am "unavailable" to my children. Suddenly the umbilical cord reattaches and they NEED to be in my presence to survive! 😄 (If you're a mom, you've probably experienced this phenomenon as well.) So in addition to the distractions, my children provided frequent interruptions as I tried to focus on the sessions.
Having properly attended the conference a couple of years ago, I know that there are still distractions and interruptions if you are there in person, but they tend to be minimized. So this weekend has been a very sharp illustration for me of the need to be intentional and focus on spending time with the Lord. As moms, as adults, as teenage women, even as young girls, there are a million things that we can see and touch and hear which scream for our attention. The question becomes, what is truly important? What will matter and last when I finally see the face of my Savior?
In one of the sessions I listened to four years ago, I heard this quote, "When judgment day comes, we will regret the waste of a single moment not used for the glory of Christ. We will not, however, regret one moment spent studying God's word and hiding it in our hearts. We will only wish we'd spent more moments doing so." That thought has spurred me into the Scriptures more than any other since I heard it. So I beg you, dear Sister, hear the Word of the Lord.
Be still, and know that I am God.
I will be exalted among the nations,
I will be exalted in the earth.
Psalm 46:10
The LORD is exalted, for he dwells on high;
he will fill Zion with justice and righteousness,
and he will be the stability of your times,
abundance of salvation, wisdom, and knowledge;
the fear of the LORD is Zion's treasure.
Isaiah 33:5-6
Friday, June 17, 2016
Skin On
I can't remember when I heard this story, but when I was younger, a pastor gave an illustration of a person (I think it was a kid) who was feeling particularly lonely. This person shared that loneliness with a friend, or pastor, or something, and got the good "Christianese" answer that God could be this person's friend and alleviate the loneliness. Our lonely character then went to the Lord in prayer and said something to the effect that God's friendship was great, but he really just wanted a friend "with skin on".
For my Shorty's job right now, he has been working between seventy and eighty hours a week. He is my bestest, favoritest friend. I have many dear female friends, but they are no substitute for my Shorty. Earlier this week I was feeling intensely lonely. In my loneliness and melancholy I cried to the Lord that I really wanted a friend with skin on. Over the course of the day He reminded me how near He has always been, through "skin on" friends and through His Spirit in me. He reminded me of His faithfulness when He was my only friend. And He challenged me to rest in Him. It wasn't an instantaneous "I feel better" happy happy joy joy. But there was comfort. There was an increasing feeling of being genuinely and deeply loved. And I did begin to feel better.
The LORD is my chosen portion and my cup;
you hold my lot.
The lines have fallen for me in pleasant places;
indeed, I have a beautiful inheritance.
I bless the LORD who gives me counsel;
in the night also my heart instructs me.
I have set the LORD always before me;
because he is at my right hand, I will not be shaken.
Therefore my heart is glad, and my whole being rejoices;
my flesh also dwells secure.
For you will not abandon my soul to Sheol,
or let your holy one see corruption.
You make known to me the path of life;
in your presence there is fullness of joy;
at your right hand are pleasures forevermore.
Psalm 16:5-11
For my Shorty's job right now, he has been working between seventy and eighty hours a week. He is my bestest, favoritest friend. I have many dear female friends, but they are no substitute for my Shorty. Earlier this week I was feeling intensely lonely. In my loneliness and melancholy I cried to the Lord that I really wanted a friend with skin on. Over the course of the day He reminded me how near He has always been, through "skin on" friends and through His Spirit in me. He reminded me of His faithfulness when He was my only friend. And He challenged me to rest in Him. It wasn't an instantaneous "I feel better" happy happy joy joy. But there was comfort. There was an increasing feeling of being genuinely and deeply loved. And I did begin to feel better.
The LORD is my chosen portion and my cup;
you hold my lot.
The lines have fallen for me in pleasant places;
indeed, I have a beautiful inheritance.
I bless the LORD who gives me counsel;
in the night also my heart instructs me.
I have set the LORD always before me;
because he is at my right hand, I will not be shaken.
Therefore my heart is glad, and my whole being rejoices;
my flesh also dwells secure.
For you will not abandon my soul to Sheol,
or let your holy one see corruption.
You make known to me the path of life;
in your presence there is fullness of joy;
at your right hand are pleasures forevermore.
Psalm 16:5-11
Thursday, June 16, 2016
Repetition
I'm a mom. I have four kids. So I spend A LOT of time repeating myself. Sometimes I have to repeat myself because not all the children were near enough to hear the command or answered question. This can be annoying, but is not nearly as frustrating as having to repeat myself when they were all in close proximity. The most aggravating though, is having to repeat myself to the same child. My son was especially bad when he was younger. He could be looking me in the eye as I gave him a command, and I would still have to repeat the command four or five, or more, times!
While I am no longer a child by human reckoning, I have just been reminded that I am still a child before my God. I still act childish in my heart. I sulk and fuss and complain when things don't go as I'd prefer, and I don't listen to the instruction He so graciously and patiently gives.
I've been feeling like I'm spinning my tires at home. When people ask what I do, I have to struggle just to get words out because the first thought that comes to mind is, "I'm just a mom." I want to believe that there is dignity, purpose in the mountains of laundry, the taxiing from one place to the next, the countless trips to the store for the "something" that missed the list, the just-mopped floor that has already caught a spill, another meal, another book, another TV show, another day... but most of the time, it just feels pointless.
In His kindness, the Lord has repeated Himself to me again and again over the last few weeks. Yes, there is dignity in "just a mom". You're not "just a mom", you are first and foremost My child. There is purpose in pouring out yourself for others. It doesn't feel glamorous, but it is working glory into your soul. You are looking more and more like My Son. And these little souls that I have entrusted to you are your calling. They matter to me just as much as any other soul in your town. Pour yourself out for them. And when it is time, I'll send you more souls that need my love.
Even if I am to be poured out as a drink offering upon the sacrificial offering of your faith, I am glad and rejoice with you all.
Philippians 2:17
By this we know love, that he laid down his life for us, and we ought to lay down our lives for the brothers.
1 John 3:16
And we all, with unveiled face, beholding the glory of the Lord, are being transformed into the same image from one degree of glory to another. For this comes from the Lord who is the Spirit.
2 Corinthians 3:18
Finally, my brothers, rejoice in the Lord. To write the same things to you is no trouble to me and is safe for you. Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, Rejoice.
Philippians 3:1, 4:4
While I am no longer a child by human reckoning, I have just been reminded that I am still a child before my God. I still act childish in my heart. I sulk and fuss and complain when things don't go as I'd prefer, and I don't listen to the instruction He so graciously and patiently gives.
I've been feeling like I'm spinning my tires at home. When people ask what I do, I have to struggle just to get words out because the first thought that comes to mind is, "I'm just a mom." I want to believe that there is dignity, purpose in the mountains of laundry, the taxiing from one place to the next, the countless trips to the store for the "something" that missed the list, the just-mopped floor that has already caught a spill, another meal, another book, another TV show, another day... but most of the time, it just feels pointless.
In His kindness, the Lord has repeated Himself to me again and again over the last few weeks. Yes, there is dignity in "just a mom". You're not "just a mom", you are first and foremost My child. There is purpose in pouring out yourself for others. It doesn't feel glamorous, but it is working glory into your soul. You are looking more and more like My Son. And these little souls that I have entrusted to you are your calling. They matter to me just as much as any other soul in your town. Pour yourself out for them. And when it is time, I'll send you more souls that need my love.
Even if I am to be poured out as a drink offering upon the sacrificial offering of your faith, I am glad and rejoice with you all.
Philippians 2:17
By this we know love, that he laid down his life for us, and we ought to lay down our lives for the brothers.
1 John 3:16
And we all, with unveiled face, beholding the glory of the Lord, are being transformed into the same image from one degree of glory to another. For this comes from the Lord who is the Spirit.
2 Corinthians 3:18
Finally, my brothers, rejoice in the Lord. To write the same things to you is no trouble to me and is safe for you. Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, Rejoice.
Philippians 3:1, 4:4
Tuesday, May 17, 2016
Tiny Kings
Our Sunday school teacher has been talking for the last few weeks about how conflict in relationships comes because we refuse to acknowledge and serve God as King, and instead set ourselves up as "mini kings" in our hearts. As I was waiting to fall asleep last night, I was pondering tiny kings, and I thought of the Night at the Museum movies. I thought of the tiny little cowboy, and the tiny little Roman soldier, and how they are building these elaborate battle machines and the night guard comes in and picks each of them up with two fingers. Then I thought of God. If we are the tiny people, God is infinitely more powerful, wiser, and more glorious than the night guard. Which made me think of Psalm 2.
Why do the nations rage
and the peoples plot in vain?
The kings of the earth set themselves,
and the rulers take counsel together,
against the LORD and against his Anointed, saying,
"Let us burst their bonds apart
and cast away their cords from us."
He who sits in the heavens laughs;
the Lord holds them in derision.
Then he will speak to them in his wrath,
and terrify them in his fury, saying,
"As for me, I have set my King
on Zion, my holy hill."
I will tell of the decree:
The LORD said to me, "You are my Son;
today I have begotten you.
Ask of me, and I will make the nations your heritage,
and the ends of the earth your possession.
You shall break them with a rod of iron
and dash them in pieces like a potter's vessel."
Now therefore, O kings, be wise;
be warned, O rulers of the earth.
Serve the LORD with fear,
and rejoice with trembling.
Kiss the Son,
lest he be angry, and you perish in the way,
for his wrath is quickly kindled.
Blessed are all who take refuge in him.
Psalms 2:1-12
We are right in the middle of an election cycle. And I my purpose is not to argue the virtues or vices of any particular candidate or party. I want to remind you that there is only one King.
Dear Christian, your Lord LAUGHS at the scheming of the tiny kings (who may seem very large to you). Trust Him. Take refuge in Him. And don't fear tiny kings!
Dear Friend, if you haven't yet taken refuge in the Son, then I beg you, "Kiss the Son, lest he be angry, and you perish in the way..."
"For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life.
John 3:16
Why do the nations rage
and the peoples plot in vain?
The kings of the earth set themselves,
and the rulers take counsel together,
against the LORD and against his Anointed, saying,
"Let us burst their bonds apart
and cast away their cords from us."
He who sits in the heavens laughs;
the Lord holds them in derision.
Then he will speak to them in his wrath,
and terrify them in his fury, saying,
"As for me, I have set my King
on Zion, my holy hill."
I will tell of the decree:
The LORD said to me, "You are my Son;
today I have begotten you.
Ask of me, and I will make the nations your heritage,
and the ends of the earth your possession.
You shall break them with a rod of iron
and dash them in pieces like a potter's vessel."
Now therefore, O kings, be wise;
be warned, O rulers of the earth.
Serve the LORD with fear,
and rejoice with trembling.
Kiss the Son,
lest he be angry, and you perish in the way,
for his wrath is quickly kindled.
Blessed are all who take refuge in him.
Psalms 2:1-12
We are right in the middle of an election cycle. And I my purpose is not to argue the virtues or vices of any particular candidate or party. I want to remind you that there is only one King.
Dear Christian, your Lord LAUGHS at the scheming of the tiny kings (who may seem very large to you). Trust Him. Take refuge in Him. And don't fear tiny kings!
Dear Friend, if you haven't yet taken refuge in the Son, then I beg you, "Kiss the Son, lest he be angry, and you perish in the way..."
"For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life.
John 3:16
Tuesday, April 5, 2016
Casting
My grandpa was an amazing guy. He was incredibly intelligent and almost unbelievably lucky. It seemed to me that he was good at everything he tried. One of the things I remember thinking that he was particularly good at was fishing. I didn't go with him often (I was far too talkative and impatient), but when I did I was always amazed at how far he could cast his line! You don't have to fish much to know that the best fish are usually the ones in the middle. I never caught the good ones because my cast only went a few feet-- and I was too impatient.
This morning I've been praying and worrying over a number of things. As I was practicing my memory verses, a couple of them really convicted me.
Humble yourselves, therefore, under the mighty hand of God so that at the proper time he may exalt you, casting all your anxieties on him, because he cares for you.
1 Peter 5:6-7
do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.
Philippians 4:6-7
It was the "casting" in 1 Peter that first caught my attention. It made me think of Pawpaw casting his line way out into the middle of the tank, and how he'd let it sit there and just watch. Then I thought about my puny little three foot cast, and how quickly I reeled it back in. We're talking less than three minutes from the time I started until my line was taut on the pole again! Sometimes I do really well casting my anxieties on the Lord. I'll pray and then wait to see what He's going to do. Other times it's more like I'm fishing. I mention it to the Lord, and then I reel it back in to ponder and worry... and ponder and worry... and mention it again, and then ponder and worry... cast and reel, cast and reel...
But why not worry? Because God "cares for you". God is deeply concerned with the details of your life. So talk to Him about them. And as you do that, His care displays itself as peace. Your emotions and thoughts don't run you around like Chicken Little. You are content to sit and watch what God will do. Which doesn't mean that you don't continue to ask, but your asking is characterized by peace instead of frantic pressing.
So, Christian, do not be anxious about anything, but cast all your anxieties on the Lord, because He cares for you, and He will give you peace.
This morning I've been praying and worrying over a number of things. As I was practicing my memory verses, a couple of them really convicted me.
Humble yourselves, therefore, under the mighty hand of God so that at the proper time he may exalt you, casting all your anxieties on him, because he cares for you.
1 Peter 5:6-7
do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.
Philippians 4:6-7
It was the "casting" in 1 Peter that first caught my attention. It made me think of Pawpaw casting his line way out into the middle of the tank, and how he'd let it sit there and just watch. Then I thought about my puny little three foot cast, and how quickly I reeled it back in. We're talking less than three minutes from the time I started until my line was taut on the pole again! Sometimes I do really well casting my anxieties on the Lord. I'll pray and then wait to see what He's going to do. Other times it's more like I'm fishing. I mention it to the Lord, and then I reel it back in to ponder and worry... and ponder and worry... and mention it again, and then ponder and worry... cast and reel, cast and reel...
But why not worry? Because God "cares for you". God is deeply concerned with the details of your life. So talk to Him about them. And as you do that, His care displays itself as peace. Your emotions and thoughts don't run you around like Chicken Little. You are content to sit and watch what God will do. Which doesn't mean that you don't continue to ask, but your asking is characterized by peace instead of frantic pressing.
So, Christian, do not be anxious about anything, but cast all your anxieties on the Lord, because He cares for you, and He will give you peace.
Thursday, March 31, 2016
It's my favorite!
I was talking to Mommy a while back and told her that my Crew don't like biscuits. They all began to loudly protest that they do like biscuits, "just not that often". I responded that if you complain about a food (or ask for something different) nine times out of ten, you don't actually LIKE that food. On the other hand, if you do REALLY like a food, you will choose it.
When I was a kid, our staple breakfast was eggs. I hated eggs, so anytime breakfast was not-eggs I was happy. But pancakes were my favorite. I LOVE pancakes! When we went to a restaurant, the first thing I checked was whether they served breakfast all day. I was the weird kid that chose a short stack for dinner at the Mexican restaurant!
These days, Thursday is pancake day. I've made pancakes so often that I have the basic recipe (and several variations) memorized. Since the syrup can make or break a good pancake, we have two different kinds on hand most of the time. The Crew like one variety, but I think it's gross. They feel the same way about my preferred brand. Even though pancakes are the standing plan, sometimes I don't realize I'm out of a necessary ingredient until the moment I need it. I have made a number of flying trips to the store for one item rather than making something else.
Friend, do you claim Christ? If you do, are you like my Crew who claim to like biscuits while consistently choosing something else? Do you pursue pleasure and comfort and joy and rest in any of the other good things in your life? Or do you plan to consistently taste of the goodness of God in His word? When your plans are interrupted, do you put in the extra effort to spend time with Him? Do you know what pleases Him, and do you diligently seek to do those things? Do you choose Him for pleasure above your favorite hobby? Do you choose Him for comfort above your favorite TV show or book or food? Do you choose him for joy above a chat with your best friend? Or do some or all of those gifts rank above your Creator? And are you okay with that? Friend, I beg you, taste and see that the Lord is GOOD! Taste and see that He can satisfy the deepest cravings of your heart!
Oh, taste and see that the LORD is good! Blessed is the man who takes refuge in him!
Psalm 34:8
"The LORD is my portion," says my soul, "therefore I will hope in him."
Lamentations 3:24
You make known to me the path of life; in your presence there is fullness of joy; at your right hand are pleasures forevermore.
Psalm 16:11
Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls.
Matthew 11:28-29
So put away all malice and all deceit and hypocrisy and envy and all slander. Like newborn infants, long for the pure spiritual milk, that by it you may grow up into salvation-- if indeed you have tasted that the Lord is good.
1 Peter 2:1-3
When I was a kid, our staple breakfast was eggs. I hated eggs, so anytime breakfast was not-eggs I was happy. But pancakes were my favorite. I LOVE pancakes! When we went to a restaurant, the first thing I checked was whether they served breakfast all day. I was the weird kid that chose a short stack for dinner at the Mexican restaurant!
These days, Thursday is pancake day. I've made pancakes so often that I have the basic recipe (and several variations) memorized. Since the syrup can make or break a good pancake, we have two different kinds on hand most of the time. The Crew like one variety, but I think it's gross. They feel the same way about my preferred brand. Even though pancakes are the standing plan, sometimes I don't realize I'm out of a necessary ingredient until the moment I need it. I have made a number of flying trips to the store for one item rather than making something else.
Friend, do you claim Christ? If you do, are you like my Crew who claim to like biscuits while consistently choosing something else? Do you pursue pleasure and comfort and joy and rest in any of the other good things in your life? Or do you plan to consistently taste of the goodness of God in His word? When your plans are interrupted, do you put in the extra effort to spend time with Him? Do you know what pleases Him, and do you diligently seek to do those things? Do you choose Him for pleasure above your favorite hobby? Do you choose Him for comfort above your favorite TV show or book or food? Do you choose him for joy above a chat with your best friend? Or do some or all of those gifts rank above your Creator? And are you okay with that? Friend, I beg you, taste and see that the Lord is GOOD! Taste and see that He can satisfy the deepest cravings of your heart!
Oh, taste and see that the LORD is good! Blessed is the man who takes refuge in him!
Psalm 34:8
"The LORD is my portion," says my soul, "therefore I will hope in him."
Lamentations 3:24
You make known to me the path of life; in your presence there is fullness of joy; at your right hand are pleasures forevermore.
Psalm 16:11
Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls.
Matthew 11:28-29
So put away all malice and all deceit and hypocrisy and envy and all slander. Like newborn infants, long for the pure spiritual milk, that by it you may grow up into salvation-- if indeed you have tasted that the Lord is good.
1 Peter 2:1-3
Monday, March 28, 2016
Fingerprints
You don't have to be around little people for long to know that if there is something messy to be had, they will find it. Not only will they find it, they will wear it. And soon it will be EVERYWHERE! My Crew are no longer tiny, but I am amazed at how many fingerprints still color my fridge, and my cabinets, and my walls. But even as adults with clean hands, we can't avoid leaving our prints on the things we touch. It may take some extra light or special dust to reveal them, but they are there.
So it is with God's hand in our lives. Once He has touched you, His fingerprints show. Sometimes clearly and sometimes only upon close inspection. But they are there.
And we all, with unveiled face, beholding the glory of the Lord, are being transformed into the same image from one degree of glory to another. For this comes from the Lord who is the Spirit.
2 Corinthians 3:18
Therefore if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come.
2 Corinthians 5:17
So it is with God's hand in our lives. Once He has touched you, His fingerprints show. Sometimes clearly and sometimes only upon close inspection. But they are there.
And we all, with unveiled face, beholding the glory of the Lord, are being transformed into the same image from one degree of glory to another. For this comes from the Lord who is the Spirit.
2 Corinthians 3:18
Therefore if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come.
2 Corinthians 5:17
Monday, March 14, 2016
Spreading Stickiness
At breakfast this morning, my youngest asked me to open the jelly jar for her because the lid was kind of cemented on. I took the jar from her and received a sticky hand. My Crew tend to be fairly messy, and had dribbled jelly around the rim and down the edge of the jar. So I told my son that when he cleared the table he needed to wipe off the jar. His response was, "It's only going to get sticky again, so why should I?" I explained that first, he needed to obey because I had told him to, but also because if he didn't the stickiness would spread. If left alone, the stickiness would spread to the other dishes in the fridge, hands, refrigerator handles, around the kitchen and dining room, and beyond.
Even as I was speaking to my son, I was thinking about how sin is like that sticky jar. It doesn't stay in one place, but pollutes and corrupts everything it touches. So that my anger towards my children tends to yield in their lives anger towards me, or towards their siblings. Or my struggle with worshiping sugar teaches them unhealthy eating habits. And beyond the family, my selfish lack of interest can cause much hurt to my brothers and sisters in Christ. Or that piece of gossip veiled as a "prayer request" can wreak absolute havoc on the love of the body.
As I was writing this, another aspect hit me. Do you ever feel like it's hopeless to fight against your sin because there is just so much of it? Like even if you do win the battle today it'll just be back tomorrow? Maybe even later today? I want to encourage you, Christian, to keep fighting. First of all, Christ died for your sin. He satisfied God's wrath, so that when God looks at you He sees the righteousness of Jesus. Second, He didn't just die to save you from wrath, but to save you from sinning. Sin is a hateful, deceptive master who promises the world and delivers death. Dear Christian, you were created for more than sinning. You were created to worship and serve the God who made you and loves you! And third, the Holy Spirit lives in you to help you grow in obedience and worship. So keep fighting!
Let no one say when he is tempted, "I am being tempted by God," for God cannot be tempted with evil, and he himself tempts no one. But each person is tempted when he is lured and enticed by his own desire. Then desire when it has conceived gives birth to sin, and sin when it is fully grown brings forth death.
James 1:13-15
Therefore, preparing your minds for action, and being sober-minded, set your hope fully on the grace that will be brought to you at the revelation of Jesus Christ. As obedient children, do not be conformed to the passions of your former ignorance, but as he who called you is holy, you also be holy in all your conduct, since it is written, "You shall be holy, for I am holy."
1 Peter 1:13-16
Deliver me from my enemies, O LORD! I have fled to you for refuge. Teach me to do your will, for you are my God! Let your good Spirit lead me on a level ground! For your name's sake, O LORD, preserve my life! In your righteousness bring my soul out of trouble! And in your steadfast love you will cut off my enemies, and you will destroy the adversaries of my soul, for I am your servant.
Psalm 143:9-12
Even as I was speaking to my son, I was thinking about how sin is like that sticky jar. It doesn't stay in one place, but pollutes and corrupts everything it touches. So that my anger towards my children tends to yield in their lives anger towards me, or towards their siblings. Or my struggle with worshiping sugar teaches them unhealthy eating habits. And beyond the family, my selfish lack of interest can cause much hurt to my brothers and sisters in Christ. Or that piece of gossip veiled as a "prayer request" can wreak absolute havoc on the love of the body.
As I was writing this, another aspect hit me. Do you ever feel like it's hopeless to fight against your sin because there is just so much of it? Like even if you do win the battle today it'll just be back tomorrow? Maybe even later today? I want to encourage you, Christian, to keep fighting. First of all, Christ died for your sin. He satisfied God's wrath, so that when God looks at you He sees the righteousness of Jesus. Second, He didn't just die to save you from wrath, but to save you from sinning. Sin is a hateful, deceptive master who promises the world and delivers death. Dear Christian, you were created for more than sinning. You were created to worship and serve the God who made you and loves you! And third, the Holy Spirit lives in you to help you grow in obedience and worship. So keep fighting!
Let no one say when he is tempted, "I am being tempted by God," for God cannot be tempted with evil, and he himself tempts no one. But each person is tempted when he is lured and enticed by his own desire. Then desire when it has conceived gives birth to sin, and sin when it is fully grown brings forth death.
James 1:13-15
Therefore, preparing your minds for action, and being sober-minded, set your hope fully on the grace that will be brought to you at the revelation of Jesus Christ. As obedient children, do not be conformed to the passions of your former ignorance, but as he who called you is holy, you also be holy in all your conduct, since it is written, "You shall be holy, for I am holy."
1 Peter 1:13-16
Deliver me from my enemies, O LORD! I have fled to you for refuge. Teach me to do your will, for you are my God! Let your good Spirit lead me on a level ground! For your name's sake, O LORD, preserve my life! In your righteousness bring my soul out of trouble! And in your steadfast love you will cut off my enemies, and you will destroy the adversaries of my soul, for I am your servant.
Psalm 143:9-12
Saturday, March 12, 2016
Dulled Sweetness
I grew up in the south in the days of frequent church potlucks. And potlucks were my FAVORITE!!! Meat and potatoes, dessert, kool-aid, and sweet tea were the staples, and I got as much as I wanted! All that sweetness felt like heaven to me. Like most kids, it didn't take me long to realize that after drinking my kool-aid, my chocolate cake didn't taste quite as sweet. Or after that bowl of pudding, the kool-aid didn't have quite the same pop.
I was thinking this morning about how easily I lose my taste for the Word. If I've been consistently having my devotions, and engaging in corporate worship, I feel like I can't get enough. But take me out of my routine for a week or two, and my interest in spiritual things begins to fade. Since this week was spring break, we've taken a very laid-back approach to life, lazing around most of the mornings, and probably staying up too late most evenings. (The time change is going to be a killer!) But in spite of my surplus of time, I've spent very little time in the Word. And far too much in various entertainment. So this morning, I found myself not really caring whether I crack open my Bible or not. Which made me think of sugar.
A relationship with God is the greatest sweetness a person can experience. But because we are corrupted by sin, we crave and pursue every other sweetness there is. I love to read stories. I love to play logic games. I love to cook. I love to eat. I love to watch movies with my Crew. And all of these can be good, sweet things. But if I do not pursue the sweetness of God's presence first, or most-- as my highest priority-- the sweetness of the good things dulls my taste for Him.
I watched a sermon by John Piper in which he says, "You have taste buds on your soul's tongue that were made to lick the lollipop of the gospel." You can see the message in it's entirety here. I struggle to pursue the sweetness of God above all else, but I need to. And so do you.
You make known to me the path of life; in your presence there is fullness of joy; at your right hand are pleasures forevermore.
Psalm 16:11
I was thinking this morning about how easily I lose my taste for the Word. If I've been consistently having my devotions, and engaging in corporate worship, I feel like I can't get enough. But take me out of my routine for a week or two, and my interest in spiritual things begins to fade. Since this week was spring break, we've taken a very laid-back approach to life, lazing around most of the mornings, and probably staying up too late most evenings. (The time change is going to be a killer!) But in spite of my surplus of time, I've spent very little time in the Word. And far too much in various entertainment. So this morning, I found myself not really caring whether I crack open my Bible or not. Which made me think of sugar.
A relationship with God is the greatest sweetness a person can experience. But because we are corrupted by sin, we crave and pursue every other sweetness there is. I love to read stories. I love to play logic games. I love to cook. I love to eat. I love to watch movies with my Crew. And all of these can be good, sweet things. But if I do not pursue the sweetness of God's presence first, or most-- as my highest priority-- the sweetness of the good things dulls my taste for Him.
I watched a sermon by John Piper in which he says, "You have taste buds on your soul's tongue that were made to lick the lollipop of the gospel." You can see the message in it's entirety here. I struggle to pursue the sweetness of God above all else, but I need to. And so do you.
You make known to me the path of life; in your presence there is fullness of joy; at your right hand are pleasures forevermore.
Psalm 16:11
Thursday, February 25, 2016
Running
I am a homebody. My favorite days are the ones when I can stay home and do something without feeling rushed. I prefer most of my adventure to happen between the pages of a book. And I like the pace of fewer places to go, fewer things to do, and fewer people to see. But that is not my life right now. I feel like I'm constantly running. Running to the store for that something I forgot. Running errands. Running to drop a child off here and pick another up there. Running from the washer and dryer to the couch and back again. Running. Running. Running.
And I get really weary. All I want to do is put on stretchy pants and catch up on the laundry. Or mop the floors and wash down a filthy wall. Or start a new project. Or put a dent in the pile of books my Crew have asked me to read. Or write down some of the words dancing through my head. But instead I spend a ridiculous chunk of day in the car. As I was thinking about this the other day, I realized that 1) God is at work to wear away my idols, and 2) He has the strength I need to get through these interminable days. As I thought about His strength, these verses came to mind.
And I get really weary. All I want to do is put on stretchy pants and catch up on the laundry. Or mop the floors and wash down a filthy wall. Or start a new project. Or put a dent in the pile of books my Crew have asked me to read. Or write down some of the words dancing through my head. But instead I spend a ridiculous chunk of day in the car. As I was thinking about this the other day, I realized that 1) God is at work to wear away my idols, and 2) He has the strength I need to get through these interminable days. As I thought about His strength, these verses came to mind.
Wednesday, February 17, 2016
Siren's Call
When I was little I loved mermaids. I was so excited that Disney's "The Little Mermaid" released near my birthday and I got to watch it in the theater. Just a few years after my introduction to mermaids, I began to delve into Greek and Roman mythology where I met the sirens. Still beautiful and mysterious, but drastically more dangerous. In fact, according to the myths, sirens are beautiful precisely for the purpose of luring seamen to their deaths. The only escape was to plug your ears so you couldn't hear, or to be completely tied down.
I've been thinking a lot about temptation lately. (Probably because one of my current memory verses is about temptation.) And I've come to the conclusion that I am terribly weak. I hear the siren's call of sin and seem nearly powerless to resist. But it is so frustrating when I give in because part of me believes that to embrace sin is death! To seek my comfort and pleasure apart from God is sin and leads to death. And still I listen. And for a while I believe that what I need most is not a relationship with the God who made me and loves me, but some other tiny thing. Dear Christian, when sin begins to sing you its tantalizing song, plug your ears and row with all your strength towards the Savior!
No temptation has overtaken you that is not common to man. God is faithful, and he will not let you be tempted beyond your ability, but with the temptation he will also provide the way of escape, that you may be able to endure it.
1 Corinthians 10:13
I've been thinking a lot about temptation lately. (Probably because one of my current memory verses is about temptation.) And I've come to the conclusion that I am terribly weak. I hear the siren's call of sin and seem nearly powerless to resist. But it is so frustrating when I give in because part of me believes that to embrace sin is death! To seek my comfort and pleasure apart from God is sin and leads to death. And still I listen. And for a while I believe that what I need most is not a relationship with the God who made me and loves me, but some other tiny thing. Dear Christian, when sin begins to sing you its tantalizing song, plug your ears and row with all your strength towards the Savior!
No temptation has overtaken you that is not common to man. God is faithful, and he will not let you be tempted beyond your ability, but with the temptation he will also provide the way of escape, that you may be able to endure it.
1 Corinthians 10:13
Monday, February 15, 2016
No rest for the weary...
I've been told by a number of older moms that our family is in its busiest season right now. Each of the Crew has their own interests and activities in which they are involved. We are working to encourage them in some of these things while working to maintain our involvement with our church and other responsibilities. All the going required for the Crew's activities means that I am at home much less than I'd prefer. It also feels like I'm always working.
I was in the middle of a draining task one evening recently, and mentally checking the list of things I still had to do that day, when the phrase "no rest for the weary" popped into my head. Following immediately on its heels was this passage:
Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.
Matthew 11:28-30
As I chewed on these precious verses, I felt refreshed. I feel like I'm always working, and I often feel weighed down by the responsibilities and struggles in my life and the lives of those I love. And here I am offered rest. But while I need physical rest, an even greater rest is promised. Rest for my soul. Perhaps you've heard that our hearts have a "God-shaped hole", a need that only our Creator can fill. But we strive to fill it with all kinds of other things. And we are left emptier for our striving. Through Christ, in Christ, we have peace with God-- which is rest for our souls.
Therefore, since we have been justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ. Through him we have also obtained access by faith into this grace in which we stand, and we rejoice in hope of the glory of God.
Romans 5:1-3
I was in the middle of a draining task one evening recently, and mentally checking the list of things I still had to do that day, when the phrase "no rest for the weary" popped into my head. Following immediately on its heels was this passage:
Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.
Matthew 11:28-30
As I chewed on these precious verses, I felt refreshed. I feel like I'm always working, and I often feel weighed down by the responsibilities and struggles in my life and the lives of those I love. And here I am offered rest. But while I need physical rest, an even greater rest is promised. Rest for my soul. Perhaps you've heard that our hearts have a "God-shaped hole", a need that only our Creator can fill. But we strive to fill it with all kinds of other things. And we are left emptier for our striving. Through Christ, in Christ, we have peace with God-- which is rest for our souls.
Therefore, since we have been justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ. Through him we have also obtained access by faith into this grace in which we stand, and we rejoice in hope of the glory of God.
Romans 5:1-3
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