The Spotlight

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Bible reading: Romans 5:1-11

We all know people who love to hog the spotlight. Even when we are more modest, we like to recognized for our accomplishments. As our reading in Romans makes clear, we have nothing to boast about save Christ. Our achievements pale in comparison with the great work that Jesus undertook on our behalf.
From an early age, Jesus understood that his ultimate destiny was betrayal, suffering and death on a cross. He gave up His position in Heaven, at the right hand of the Father, to take on the form on a man and enter into time and space. He gave up His life willingly so that we could be brought back into a right relationship with God.
Our sins (and anyone who says they have no sin is blind and foolish) separated us from God in this life and they result in eternal separation from God in the next life.
Yet, even while we were still lost in our sins, Christ died in our place.
This Easter, let's put the spotlight off ourselves and back on Christ. "Behold the man," our redeemer and friend. When Christ arose from the tomb he brought life and light into a dark, lost world.

All Kinds of Help

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Bible reading: Genesis 41:46-57

As Joseph's story illustrates, God often puts us in circumstances to help other people. Joseph endured years of imprisonment before Pharaoh learned of his abilities and put him in a position to save many lives during a severe famine.
So to, God prepares us to be able to help others. Sometimes we are born with certain talents or abilities: compassion, hospitality, artistic and creative capability, intellect or organizing powers. All of these can be used to help others.
Sometimes, however, we go through some type of difficult trial: pain and sickness, addictions, financial ruin. After God brings us through these challenges, we are better prepared to help those who face similar situations.
If you haven't already, sit down today and make a list of all your God-given extraordinary talents and abilities. Then search for ways to put those special gifts to good use. Find a ministry or organization that would benefit from your experiences. Be ready to give all kinds of help.

Joining the Family

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Bible reading: Galatians 3:36-4:7

At age 11 months I was adopted. As my parent's adopted daughter, I received all the love and attention that a natural child would have gotten. When my parents died, I was entitled to an inheritance.
In a similar way, when we accept Christ as our savior, are 'born again' in the waters of baptism, we become members of the family of God. All other Christians become our 'brothers and sisters in Christ.'
As today's scripture in Galatians makes clear: "You are all sons (and daughters) of God through faith in Christ Jesus." We then receive an eternal inheritance. Jesus' Spirit allows us to pray, using the name "Abba, Father" or Daddy.
As children, we experience all the love, care and attention that God our Father gives to the Son and to all His children. We have a home with God.
Because I was an only child and never had children of my own, I often feel that my Church family is my true family. I give and receive love; I share my life with my Christian family. I've heard some say that they are closer to their brothers and sisters in Christ than they are to their natural siblings.
You have the same opportunity to join the family. Then you can rejoice because you are a child of God.

Spoonful of Sugar

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Bible reading: Psalm 19:7-14

Today's devotion speaks of "realistically optimistic" people. Aren't those the people to whom we are drawn? We like being around those who see the positive side of every situation. Those who are creative and full of joy.
David's Psalm tells us that God's judgements ... His truth ... is "sweeter also than honey." Truth doesn't have to be bitter or harsh. When we are following God's truth, life itself becomes sweeter.
As Julie Ackerman Link says in today's devotion, "Pure truth, untainted by pride, is the sweetest, most refreshing taste to all those who hunger for spiritual sustenance. And we have the privilege of serving it to a starving world." 
As you share God's Truth, don't forget to add a spoonful of sugar.

New Beginnings

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Bible reading:Isaiah 43:14-21

God offers you, as he did the people of Israel, an opportunity to start over. In Isaiah 43:19 God says, "Behold, I will do a new thing; now it shall spring forth; shall you not know it?" Any time we choose, we can put the failures and mistakes of the past behind us and begin over again. Every day God gives us new life, new opportunities, new beginnings.
Think of what you'd like to change: your spending habits, your overeating, your overspending, your lack of friends, a disappointing relationship, (your failure here). You can begin anew ... forgetting your past mistakes ... working toward real change. Your life is a Tabla Rosa ... a clean slate. This time you have God at your side, helping you make better choices, helping you succeed.
Whatever your need, seize this offer of a new beginning. Thank God that he forgives all that you regret. Forgive yourself for the times you've failed. Make some new plans and set new goals. It's Spring: a great time to clean out the deadwood and let your life bloom in fresh, new ways.

"Isn't God Powerful!"

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Bible reading: Psalm 29

How big is the god you worship? Did your god make light out of no-light? Did your god create life out of no-life? Did your god bring into being the entire universe? Does your god know the names of each of the billions and billions and stars? Does your god hold the foundations of the world in his control? Can your god tell you the number of hairs on your head?
The God of the Bible does all these things ... and more. His power and majesty are beyond our comprehension. We try to limit this God. We treat Him like some cosmic ATM machine: insert our prayers (demands) and out pop the answers we were expecting. Are we too busy working ... working even in churches ... to stop to contemplate the glory and mystery of God?
Are you worshiping a convenient god you made up to suit your own needs? Or do you fall prostrate before the Master of the Universe?

Left Side of the Road

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Bible reading: Galatians 5:1-14

God's laws are for our protection and happiness. Break them and disaster ensues, just as breaking the rules of the road with have dire consequences. However as Galatians 5:14 says, For all the law is fulfilled in one word, even in this, "You shall love your neighbor as yourself."
In the Church at Galatia, there were those that said that new Gentile (non-Jewish) Christians should be circumcised ... a practice that reverted back to the old covenant between God and the Jews. Paul warns that there is danger of "falling from grace" by teaching that new converts must keep the old Hebrew law. In Christ, we are free from the power of law and death. When we try to set up more "rules" to follow, we are just as bad off as we were when we were sin's captive.
Paul also writes in this passage that we have been "called to liberty" in Christ. We have been set free from both the bondage of the old law and the bondage of sin. But Christ's liberty should not result in our returning to a life of sin ... and becoming slaves again. Our lives are to be lived in a perfect balance between sin and law. We have such liberty that the only "law" we need obey is to love others. When we do that, we will naturally follow all that the Ten Commandments required.
We are free to live by the rule of love. Join Christ in a perfectly balanced life: a life filled with liberty, love, joy and peace.

Loved to Love

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Bible reading: Deuteronomy 10:12-22

Dietrich Bonhoeffer's book on hospitality as ministry, "Life Together," proposes a radical concept. By bringing others into our circle, we can deeply impact the lives of the lost. By reaching out we can see the spread of Christianity in our world. So many people are searching for connection. We are often alienated and strangers to people around us. I've found that Christians too often isolate or insulate themselves from the world around them. Our only friends tend to be other Christians.
Just think what could happen if we stopped ignoring all the lonely, poor, widowed, incarcerated, sick and sad people we encounter or hear of. If we started sharing what we have found in Christ. A true revolution would take place: a revival of unforeseen impact. So many are just an invitation away from rescue.
Who is lonely? Who is struggling? Who is an addict? Who is unlovable? Who needs help? Open your eyes and hearts to those around you. Share the Living Water with those who are thirsty.
God loves you so you can love others. Invite someone today to learn about Christ.

Getting Beyond Ourselves

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Bible reading: 2 Corinthians 3:7-18
You've probably heard the expression, "Get over yourself." While that may be good advice for the egomaniacs among us, today's lesson shows us how we can "get beyond ourselves."
What a wonderful offer Paul makes in today's scripture: the more we look upon Jesus, His life and teachings, and open ourselves up to His Spirit, the more we reflect His glory.
The term "glory" has a beautiful history from the time when the Israelites  were wandering in the desert and Moses was speaking with God. After being in God's presence, Moses' face shone brightly with God's reflected glory. His face was so bright that the people demanded that Moses wear a veil over his face. This glory or presence of God became to be known as "Shekhinah," a Hebrew word, a grammatically feminine form meaning "dwelling" or "settling" in which the presence of God came to rest in the Jewish tabernacle and later the Temple in Jerusalem.
This is the same word used in today's Bible reading. This same Shekhinah can be ours as we reflect Christ's glory.
How could we turn down such an offer? Who wouldn't want to trade their broken, sad, sinful image for the glorious image of Christ? We can go beyond our pettiness, beyond our fear, beyond our jealousy, beyond our greed, beyond our pride, beyond our weakness, beyond our loneliness, beyond our lovelessness to claim the actual Shekhinah or Glory of God. We can then begin producing the fruits of the Spirit as listed in Galatians 5:22-23: Love, Joy, Peace, Patience, Kindness, Goodness, Faithfulness, Gentleness and Self-Control.
Are you ready today to remove the veil of sin and trade your dull image for the Shikhinah of Christ?

Strawberry Mess

Read or listen to today's devotion: http://odb.org
Read today's scripture: Philippians 4:1-5

We have all, at one time or another, 'messed up' in a relationship. We said something out or anger or jealousy. We've been 'out of tune' with those closest to us. Sometimes we've been the innocent party: on the receiving end of another person's gossip or spite. Either way, friendships are soured.

As Christian's we have a duty to try to heal those broken relationships. As part of Jesus' Sermon on the Mount, Matthew 5:23-24 says, "So then, if you bring your gift to the altar and there remember that your brother has something against you, leave your gift there in front of the altar. First go and be reconciled to your brother and then come and present your gift" (Note that the passages says 'if your brother (or sister) has something against you ... not 'if you have something against a brother.' Sometimes we must take the initiative in repairing a damaged relationship. We shouldn't wait for the other person to ask for our forgiveness but instead, when the other person has injured us, we make the first move toward reconciliation.)

Today's scripture tells us that we are to "Be of the same mind in the Lord." That mind includes both rejoicing and having a gentle spirit. When we understand through experience what it means to live in disharmony with another, we are better equipped to help someone else who is going through a similar situation. We can rejoice that we experienced that painful time because we then know how to advise another how to have a gentle spirit. God can use even our worst mistake and our greatest pain to bring His love and comfort to someone else.

Not Counting

Read or listen to today's Our Daily Bread devotion at http://odb.org/
Bible reading is Matthew 20:16

In today's verses from Matthew we have the parable of the hired workers in which the laborers who worked only one hour were paid the same as the men who worked a full 12 hours. The ones who worked the longest felt cheated even though they were paid the wage to which they agreed. Although this makes no economic sense, Christ is illustrating the principle that His grace is a gift, not something we earn. He also points out in verse 16 "The last will be first, and the first last."
It's easy for us to forget that we cannot earn God's favor and that His purposes are sometimes beyond our comprehension.
We complain because He gives an extra portion of talent to others, and overlooks us. The person next to you has a beautiful singing voice, while you are tone deaf. Another is a powerful speaker, but you tremble at the thought of saying anything before a group. Your friend seems to have more than enough money, even as you struggle to pay the bills.
You may never understand God's ways until you meet Him face-to-face. For now, just be thankful for the gifts that God does give you. You may not be able to sing on key, but your prayers are a lovely sound to God. Instead of speaking well, you may be good at writing. You might not be rich financially, but you are rich in friendships. God gives us the abilities that best suit us.
He also shows special grace to widows, orphans, the poor ... those who are "last" in our society but have first place in His heart. Remember that since God was willing to give us the gift of salvation through the sacrifice of His Son, what other gift do we need. Learn to be content ... someday God will reward you, not on merit but faithfulness.

Check the Oil

Read Psalm 5

If you want to keep your car engine in good condition, it's a good idea to check the oil often. If you want to keep your relationship with God in good condition, it's a good idea to check in with Him each day. Many feel that the best time to check in with God is early in the morning: before the rush of the day distracts your attention. Time spent reading your Bible, meditating on the Word, praying and perhaps journaling is never wasted time. This 'Quiet Time' will set the mood for the rest of your day. You will experience God's presence throughout the day, once you've made contact early.
Now that I'm retired, I find it easier to have a morning time with God. Of course, not everyone has this luxury. I know when I was working, I had a hard time being consistent with a morning devotion ... often putting it off until after work or right before bed. Those days never seemed to go as well as the days I checked in early with my Lord.
I would encourage you to make time in your schedule to meet God early each day. As today's reading ... and many other Bible passages ... make clear, it is God's recommendation to meet with Him in the morning. Psalm 5:3, "In the morning, O Lord, You will hear my voice; In the morning I will order my prayer to You and eagerly watch."
You might need to get up a half hour earlier (which, in turn, means going to be a half hour earlier). You might try to rearrange some tasks (prepare what you'll wear, set the coffee timer, make your lunch) the evening before, so that mornings aren't so harried.
Whatever it takes, just be sure to 'check the oil' every day so that you maintain your Spirit in good working order.

What's In a Name?

(Back from a month's hiatus. Ready to restart this blog but from now on I'll be using devotionals from Our Daily Bread. Please see their website at http://odb.org/ for each day's devotion. You can also subscribe via email, snail mail or use the ODB app. I hope you will read the devotion each day, then come here for some additional thoughts and the opportunity to leave your comments.)

Read John 1:35-42

What's in a name? Before you were born, your parents most likely picked out a name for you. A name of a grandparent or friend; a name with a special meaning to them; or perhaps you're named after the month in which you were born or a quality they liked, such as Hope or Joy.) Whatever your name, you become associated with the name itself.
In the Bible we find many instances where God changed someone's name: Abram became Abraham, Jacob was changed to Israel, Saul became Paul and the Apostle Simon had his name changed to Peter by Jesus. Each time, the new name held some deep spiritual significance and meaning.
When we become a Christian, our identity is also changed. A few actually change their name when they are "born again," but most keep their given names. Either way, this experience means that we are now adopted into the family of God. We begin to develop a family resemblance: we learn to have the 'mind of Christ' and to reflect his qualities.
Once we arrive in Heaven, God gives us a new name. In Revelation 2:17, we learn that God writes a secret name on a white stone. This new name is known only to us: a name we, nor anyone else, has heard before. My own opinion is that each of us has a particular blend of qualities that makes us different from every other person in the world. God knows those qualities because he gave them to us and throughout eternity, God will call us be our special, unique name.
For now, we can be glad if we are God's child. Each day our appearance is becoming more and more like God's son, Jesus.

Let the Good Shepherd Lead You

Many voices compete for our attention: voices from the past, voices of self-doubt or self-pity, voices of Satan. When we learn to shut out the noise from all these harmful voices, we can more clearly hear the voice of the Good Shepherd, Jesus.
He says in John 10:3-5, "...the sheep hear his voice, and he calls his own sheep by name and leads them out ... he goes ahead of them, and the sheep follow him because they know his voice."
Some people may object to be likened to sheep. But remember that Jesus knows each of us by name ... we're not just part of some big flock. He knows who we are and what we do.
Many voices will vie for your attention today, especially when you sit in silence, meditating on God and His Word. When we try to listen to too many other voices, our lives become fragmented and fall into frustrating patterns. We can learn to discern what Christ's voice sounds like, apart from all the others.
Walk close to the Shepherd. Listen solely to His voice. Let him lead you into pleasant valleys and by refreshing streams. Be at peace because your future is secure. He will never let a wolf or thief disturb or threaten you. As John 10:10-11 tells us, "The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I (Jesus) came that they may have life, and have it abundantly. I am the good shepherd ..."
All the qualities of a good shepherd are found in Jesus. He is on guard for danger, He leads his sheep with tenderness and concern, He never abandons the flock. I love Isaiah 40:11, "Like a shepherd He will tend His flock, In His arm He will gather the lambs and carry them in His bosom; He will gently lead the nursing ewes." 
Don't be lead astray by strange voices. Listen for your master's voice. Let the good shepherd lead you. Always.

Stop Comparing Yourself to Others

Nothing good comes from comparing yourself to other people. If you think others are better than you, you'll have low self-esteem and inferiority. If you think you are better than others, you'll be prideful and dismissive. The practice is meaningless ... and wrong.
God created each of us with unique capabilities and individual circumstances. We are equal in His sight: He loves all of us, warts and all. When we try comparing ourselves we become judgmental. We are all familiar with John 3:16, "For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish, but have eternal life." Now go on reading through verse 17, "For God did not sent the Son into the world to judge the world, but that the world might be saved through Him." If anyone had the right to judge others, it would be Jesus. He never sinned: in thought or deed. Yet, He did not judge others. He asks the same of us in Luke 6:37, "Do not judge, and you will not be judged, and do not condemn, and you will not be condemned; pardon, and you will be pardoned."
Some see God as an unpleasant Judge, angrily searching out our faults and failures. Nothing could be further from the truth. Our God is a full of lovingkindness and forgiveness. He died for us so that we might be clothed in His garments of salvation. Psalm 61:10 says, "...For He has clothes me with garments of salvation, He has wrapped me with a robe of righteousness." We cannot claim our own rightness with God ... He provides His righteousness as a covering for our sins.
So, stop comparing yourself (your abilities, your possessions, your family heritage, your prospects for the future) with others. Revel in your uniqueness. Claim your inheritance as a child of God.

Tempted? Use God's Escape Hatch

Christians may no longer be sin's slaves but every day we are faced with decisions that can lead to sin. We are not immune to temptation. Will we do something we know is wrong? Or, more commonly, will we fail to do something we know we should. Paul expresses it best in Romans 7:15: "I don't really understand myself, for I want to do what is right, but I don't do it. Instead, I do what I hate." We all face these kinds of temptations over the course of our day.
But God provides an escape! I Corinthians 10:13 holds the key: "There isn't any temptation that you have experienced which is unusual for humans. God, who faithfully keeps his promises, will not allow you to be tempted beyond your power to resist. But when you are tempted, he will also give you the ability to endure the temptation as your way of escape."
What a relief. With every temptation God provides a way to resist. We do not have to be conquered by sin. Christ gives us victory over sin and it's penalty, death. 
Now, I've found in my experience, the hard part is just taking that escape route. I'm sometimes so rebellious, I refuse to use the way out that is right there in front of me. I pray that in the future, when temptations do beguile me, I have the wisdom to use the escape hatch that will never fail to be provided. Christ is beside me and His Holy Spirit is inside me, helping me make the right choices. 
Next time you're tempted to do what you know to be wrong, don't forget to look around for God's escape hatch.

Day by Day: Moment by Moment

God leads us through life day by day and moment by moment. He doesn't promise to let us in on His plans for the future. We want to know what lies ahead but God asks us to be satisfied with this present moment. Leave the future in His hands. Deuteronomy 29:29 says, "The secret things belong to the Lord our God ..." I believe that the future is one of those 'secret things.' When we try to figure out what comes next, we are grabbing at things that belong to God. This gives us a spirit of rebellion: we begin to doubt God's promise to care for us.
Instead of worrying about the future, return to God. He will show you the next step.
Trusting Christ to see us through whatever life may hold, is one way to develop a perfect relationship with Him. Psalm 32:8 assures us, "I will instruct you and teach you in the way which you should go; I will counsel you with My eye upon you." We are never overlooked by God. His eye is on us. His lovingkindness surrounds us. Begin today in a new journey with the Father. Let Him teach you about His Will. Trust Him to care for you day by day: moment to moment.

Prayers of Gratitude

Some wonder just how one can stay in constant contact with the Father. Exactly how does that happen? One reliable way is to be continually offering prayers of gratitude.
You will find it hard to feel sorry for yourself when you are thanking God for all the blessings He bestows. You will find it hard to worry when you are praying with gratitude.
Colossians 3:2 instructs, "Devote yourselves to prayer, keeping alert in it with an attitude of thanksgiving." Praying with the attitude of thankfulness keeps you alert to the power and working of God.
This morning, during my quiet time, I listed many of the things for which I am grateful. From the big (friends who love me, a safe home, good health) to the small (a working computer, plants and flowers in my garden, pets that I adore). During the day today, my intention is to keep thanking God for all the ways He blesses me.
When you're in a conversation with a friend, you become closer as you share the important things about your life. When you're in a conversation with God, you become closer as you thank Him for all the blessings (people, things and events) that He has given you.
I love I Thessalonians 5:16-18, "Rejoice always; pray without ceasing; in everything give thanks; for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus."
It is impossible to be both angry and thankful. You can't feel 'blue' when you are offering prayers of gratitude. Try it. You'll see.

No Limit On God's Love

There is no force in the universe more powerful than God's love for us. We humans experience limitations of all kinds. We usually are able to love ... up to a point. Human love can be weakened by circumstances, by disappointments, by betrayal. God's love never grows weak. He will never abandon us.
Now we see only part of the story: as through a dim mirror, I Corinthians 13:12 tells us. But someday we will see Christ face-to-face. Then we will know fully, just as we are fully known.
Then we will see exactly how wide and long and high and deep is Christ's love for us. Someday we will have unlimited access to His Presence: an eternal ecstasy. For now, His loving presence is sufficient to get us through our day.
Thoughtfully read and meditate on Ephesians 3:16-19, "I pray that out of his glorious riches he may strengthen you with power through his Spirit in your inner being, so that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith. And I pray that you, being rooted and established in love, may have power, together with all the saints, to grasp how wide and long and high and deep is the love of Christ, and to know this love that surpasses knowledge--that you may be filled to the measure of all the fullness of God."

Don't Let Satan Win

Divide and conquer. Divide and conquer. That has been Satan's tactic down through the ages. Wherever there is confusion, disillusionment, conflict, Satan is there to make things worse than they need to be.
Recently, in the church where I attend, decisions were made that have mystified many in the congregation. Rumors and misinformation have spread quickly. Many have been hurt and many are considering leaving our church. Satan must be dancing with glee (if the Devil can feel joy). This is the perfect opportunity for Satan and his minions to split the church.
We are in the process of calling a new minister. Satan must be very afraid that the church might start growing again. He will use every bit of dissatisfaction and every piece of bitterness to worm his way into the hearts and minds of our members.
I Peter 5:6-9 warns us, ^"And God will exalt you in due time, if you humble yourselves under his mighty hand by casting all your cares on him because he cares for you. Be sober and alert. Your enemy the devil, like a roaring lion, is on the prowl looking for someone to devour. Resist him, strong in your faith, because you know that your brothers and sisters throughout the world are enduring the same kinds of suffering"
Don't let Satan devour you. Don't let this trial become a tool in the Devil's workshop. Stand firm in your faith. Pray for guidance. Pray for wisdom. Pray for peace. Don't let Satan win. 

Are You Too Busy for God?

God is waiting for you this morning. Perhaps in your favorite chair, next to the bookshelf that holds your Bible. Perhaps He's waiting in the kitchen table or even at your bedside. He wants to talk to you. He has important things to say before you begin your day. Don't let the concerns of the day crowd out this precious time alone with Jesus.
Yes, we all have duties that constantly demand our attention. Yet, taking a half hour with the Lord will give you a better perspective on what is important and what is trivial.
I love the quote by Martin Luther, "Work, work, from morning until late at night. In fact, I have so much to do that I shall have to spend the first three hours in prayer." Martin Luther knew that in order to get everything else done, it was important to meet with his Savior in prayer. We may not have the full three hours that Luther spent, but you'll find that even half an hour in communion with God will make the rest of your day smoother and less stressful.
"Don't fall into the trap of being constantly on the go," my devotional Jesus Calling advises. Much of that busy work is meaningless in light of eternity. Make you day count for Christ. Psalm 32: 8 tells us, "I will instruct you and teach you the way you should go; I will counsel you with My eye upon you." God promises to be our time-management counselor. You are never out of His sight. He can supernaturally bring about more time in your day to finish all those pressing tasks.
First, though, it is necessary to spend time in His Presence. Reading His Word, the Bible. Meditating on the meaning of those Words for your life. Making your requests and giving Him praise and thanks. Listen to that still small voice that will direct your feet and make your way clear. Don't be too busy for God.

With Christ in the Heavenly Realms

Christ is above all things: our everyday concerns, our paid, the events that overwhelm us. He invites us to rise above these worldly troubles. Ephesians 2:4-7 gives us the invitation, "But God, being rich in mercy, because of His great love with which He loved us, even when we were dead in our transgressions, made us alive together with Christ (by grace you have been saved), and raised us up with Him, and seated us with Him in the heavenly places in Christ Jesus, so that in the ages to come He might show the surpassing riches of His grace in kindness toward us in Christ Jesus."
What a transforming thought: God didn't leave us to die because of our sin, but had such love and mercy for us He made us alive in Christ so that we can dwell with Him in the heavenly places. Doesn't your small worry fade in comparison to these riches? Don't you long to leave the world of woe behind and live with Christ? It's not an impossible dream. That is where God wants us to be.
Whenever circumstances get you down, simply ask for Jesus to help you. He is draw you out of the turmoil and give you peace and rest.
Take a moment to thank Him, then take Him up on His offer. Walk in His presence. Be with Christ in the heavenly realms.

Beating the Blues

For no apparent reason I was feeling 'down' last night. It seemed I was such a failure in so many areas of my life: money, men, dieting. I took my eyes off Jesus for just one moment and all the cares of the world come crashing down. It can happen to any of us ... at any time.
Give Satan an inch and he'll take a mile, as the saying goes. He can turn even good things into despair. He is always lurking ... waiting for a minute of weakness to rob us of our joy.
I'm so glad that God gives us refreshment from sleep and a new outlook each morning. What a wonderful, dependable promise in Lamentations 3:22-23, "The faithful love of the LORD never ends! His mercies never cease. Great is his faithfulness; his mercies begin afresh each morning."
Today's devotion in Jesus Calling gave me this to think about: "I (God) can fit everything into a pattern for good, including the things you wish were different. Start with where you are at this point in time and space, accepting that this is where I intend you to be." What great news. God has put be where He wants me to be. I can thank Him for all the things he provides: a safe home, a reliable car, food to eat, friends who care, a wonderful church to attend, my precious pets, on and on, too many to name. God is good.
Psalm 42:11 asks, "Why are you in despair, my soul? Why are you disturbed within me? Hope in God, for once again I will praise him, since his presence saves me and he is my God."
The blues can catch any of us unawares. But praise God that He won't leave us in our depression. If we look for Him, we will find Him anew every morning. Focusing again on Him and His power will beat those blues.

Building Character in Hard Times

It is easy to follow Christ and focus on His Presence when everything is going well. But what happens when tough times come your way? Although your world may be shaken to the core, Jesus still offers Peace, Light and Joy. If we can take our eyes off our troubles long enough to see God at work in our lives, we will find that the hard times ... times when we need the most help ... are when our faith is strengthen and our trust can grow.
When we face trails and temptations, we can find comfort in such scriptures as Matthew 11:28-29, "Come to Me, all who are weary and heavy-laden, and I will give you rest. Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls."
Sometimes we need correction. Sometimes we're headed in the wrong direction. Yet Jesus always provides a way out. Keep Him at the center of your life and everything else will fall into place. Who else can offer such a promise?
Don't give up when the going gets tough. Hebrews 10:35-36 warns us, "Therefore, do not throw away your confidence, which has a great reward. For you have need of endurance, so that when you have done the will of God, you may receive what was promised." 
If you face hard decisions or life seems particularly difficult today, keep your focus on Jesus: bathe in His Peace. Be glad that He is offering you the opportunity to build character and develop greater faith in the hard times.

Grasp Jesus' Hand and Let Go of the Rest

My devotional, Jesus Calling, contained this interesting thought today: "The only thing you can grasp without damaging your soul is My (i.e. Jesus') hand." Holding onto worry and fear will only damage your spirit. When you 'let go and let God,' you find that He will fill your mind and spirit with contentment. The mind controlled by Christ's Spirit is full of Life and Peace.
Romans 8:6 says, "For the mind set on the flesh is death, but the mind set on the Spirit is life and peace." You can have as much of Christ's peace as you want, as you make thousands of correct choices today. Decided to trust Him instead of worrying. You will never run out of things to worry about until you place your mind under God's control. He will replace the worry with joy and the fear with courage and the weakness with strength.
Rely on the words of Psalm 46:1-2, "God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble. Therefore we will not fear, though the earth should change and though the mountains slip into the heart of the sea;" Now that is faith ... to have no fear even when the earth starts shaking and mountains tremble and fall.
Let go of the things that weigh you down and grasp the hand of Jesus. He will never fail you. Just believe.

Is the Path You Follow Headed For Heaven?

John 14:6 says, "Jesus replied, 'I am the way, and the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.' "
It can't be any plainer than that. Unless we put our faith in Christ Jesus, we cannot be assured that the path we are on will lead to eternal life. How God the Father will apply this truth is beyond our comprehension. Will we and our loved ones have a second chance to accept the truth of Christ's death and resurrection after our own death? We just don't know. But why take a chance about that when we have the opportunity to accept His salvation today.
Many people seek Truth. Some are looking in all the wrong places. The only sure path is the one Christ calls us to ... the path of truth that leads to Life (a richer Life, here and now; a promise of Life Forever after death.)
John 8:31-32, "...If you continue to follow my teaching, you are really my disciples and you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free." Freedom! We all want to be free. Free from worries, free from strife, free from anxiety and mostly, free from sin.
Trusting God is where the blessings begin. Psalm 13:5-6 says, "But I have trusted in Your lovingkindness: my hearth shall rejoice in Your salvation. I will sing to the Lord, because he has dealt bountifully with me." 
What path are you on? Choose the path of truth: the path of Christ. Let God deal 'bountifully' with you by trusting in His 'lovingkindness.'

Focus on the Unseen, Not the Seen

As we go through our days, Jesus is urging us to focus our attention on the unseen (and eternal), rather than the seen (and temporary). II Corinthians 4:17-18 tells us, "For momentary, light affliction is producing for us an eternal weight of glory far beyond all comparison, while we look not at things which are see; for the things that are seen are temporal, but the things which are not seen are eternal."
Where is your focus today? On the eternal ... things of the spirit and God ... or on the temporal ... problems, worries, cares of the world? With God, we can live in the present, not having one care about the future.
God, through the Spirit of Christ, offers His presence. He will be with you, beside you and in you ... but only in the present moment. That's the only place we can meet Him. He doesn't promise to to be with us when our attention is focused elsewhere ... on things of this world. What a futile effort to try to grasp for future gifts from God, when He has given you all you need for today. Verbalize your trust and thankfulness. Receive today's gifts with gratitude. Unwrap them, one by one, and appreciate what you've been given. Stay in the present moment where God is. As Romans 8:31 assures us, "... If God is for us, who can be against us?"

Follow Jesus One Step at a Time

Not only is walking with Jesus one step at a time all that He asks, it is the only safe way to walk through this world. Why is this such a difficult concept to accept? Why do was want to see ahead? Why do we want to rush head-long into the future? When we take our eyes off Jesus and see the looming mountain ahead, we become discouraged, even fearful. We start worrying about how we are ever going to climb that mountain (whatever your mountain: debts, poor health, failed relationships). If you're not keeping your focus on just this one step ahead, you're likely to stumble and fall.
When we fall, Jesus will pick us up, dust us off, and remind us to follow Him just one step at a time. Our path may take an abrupt turn, leading us away from that mountain. There may be an easier way us the mountain ... one that is not visible to us right now. Or even if God does lead us up our own special mountain, He will never leave our side. Psalm 91:11-12 promises us, "For He will give His angels charge concerning you, to guard you in all your ways. They will bear you up in their hands, that you do not strike your foot against a stone." 
With Jesus beside us and angels around us, we are not going to fall or even hit our foot on a rock along the way.
II Corinthians 5:7 says, "for we walk by faith, not by sight ..." Jesus sees the path ahead ... we don't. Trust Him to guide you. Take courage and have faith. You will never regret following Jesus one step at a time.

What Occupies Your Mind the Most Becomes Your God

God's first commandment is to have no other gods before Him. (Exodus 20:3) When we take our minds off of God, to place them on other things, we are replacing the real God with sad imposters. Some people worship their bodies: all they think about is calories and workouts and abs. Some people worship their families: they become overly anxious about the family welfare. And of course, some worship money and possessions. They spend all of their energy on gaining wealth and shopping. But strangely enough even worries, if indulged, develop into idols. Anxiety can gain a life of its own. Fear can infest your mind.
You can break free of these false gods by bringing your attention back to God: to the Father, Son and Holy Spirit. Affirm your trust in Him and refresh yourself in His presence. Put your faith in the eternal. Remember Matthew 17:20, "...If you have faith the size of a mustard seed, you will say to this mountain, 'Move from here to there,' and it will move; and nothing will be impossible to you."
What goes on in your mind is invisible to others but plain to God. He searches your thoughts, hoping to find signs that you are putting your trust in Him. Don't worship at the altar of any other earth-bound god. Guard your thoughts ... stay close to your Creator.

God Made Us Free to Choose Him ... or Not

(Note: I have been sick with the flu for the past week. I'm thankful that I now feel well enough to get back to posting for my blog and the rest of my normal activities.)
Today, I'd like to talk about the wonderful freedom that God has given man. This is one of the ways in which we are created in God's image. At the very beginning of the Bible, God says in Genesis 1:26: "...Let Us make man in Our image, according to Our likeness; and let them rule over the fish of the sea and over the birds of the sky and over the cattle and over all earth, and over every creeping thing that creeps on the earth."
What an amazing privilege and an amazing responsibility. God gives us the ability to act in our world: to care for ourselves and every other living thing. He has given us free will. We can choose to love and follow Him or we can choose to set something or someone else up as our own god.
Choosing God is something that doesn't come naturally. Our natures, because of sin, is to be disobedient. We must learn to focus our minds on God: we must not let other lesser things captivate our attention. II Corinthians 10: 5 tells us, "We are destroying speculations and every lofty thing raised up against the knowledge of God, and we are taking every thought captive to the obedience of Christ." 
That is our goal every day: to bring our thoughts captive to Jesus. Whenever your mind wanders, capture those thoughts and bring them back to Christ's presence. You'll find that your anxious thoughts shrink and disappear. Your judgmental thoughts are revealed and brought back to God's unconditional love. Confused thoughts are untangled when you seek the simplicity of God's peace.
Isaiah 26:3 assures us, "The steadfast mind You will keep in perfect peace, because he trusts in You."
Choose God's freedom by capturing your wayward thoughts and bringing them under the control of Christ's Spirit. The peace He'll give you is worth it.

Jesus' Light Shines Through Our Weakness

In the places we are weak, Jesus is strong. When we admit our weaknesses and turn them over to Him, He can use them to demonstrate His power ... to us and to others. II Corinthians 12:9 makes that plain: "And He has said to me, 'My grace is sufficient for you, for power is perfected in weakness.' Most gladly therefore, I will rather boast about my weakness, so that the power of Christ may dwell in me." It's not our power that overcomes our weaknesses but God's power.
We have nothing to be afraid of; nothing to be ashamed of; nothing to hide. God can turn our weaknesses into strengths.
We are but empty jars of clay. It is the master who can make use of us. II Corinthians 4:6-7 tells us: "For God, who said, 'Light shall shine out of darkness,' is the One who has shone in our hearts to give the Light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Christ. But we have this treasure in earthen vessels, so that the surpassing greatness of the power will be of God and not from ourselves." 
Think of a piece of cloth. Hold it up to the light. It is where the cloth is most worn and weak that the light shines through the brightest. In a like manner, God's light shines through our weak spots onto others. They can see God at work in our lives and are blessed by our worn spots.
God can use our quiet, humble spirit more than our prideful, boastful self.  I Peter points out: "but let it be the hidden person of the heart, with the imperishable quality of a gentle and quiet spirit, which is precious in the sight of God." We are more valuable and more useful when we admit our faults and seek His power.
His spirit of power and His presence go with us through our day. Take heart from Deuteronomy 31:6: "Be strong and courageous, do not be afraid or tremble at them, for the Lord your God is the one who goes with you. He will not fail you or forsake you." 
Take a chance today. Instead of trying to cover up your weaknesses, expose them to the Light of God's love. Let Jesus' light shine through your weakness.

Jesus Will Catch You When You Fall

It's not a matter of 'if,' it's a matter of 'when.' We are all bound to fall someday. We have days when things just don't go as planned. We run into trouble and our sense of God's presence fails. Maybe the car won't start or a friend says something mean. Do we find ourselves cursing or retaliating? Maybe we hear of job cuts or we get a diagnosis of cancer. Do we panic or lose faith? Whatever our circumstances, when we just can't walk this tightrope life any longer and feel ourselves starting to fall, we can be certain that if we have put our trust in Jesus, He will always catch us before we hit rock bottom.
I love the promise of Deuteronomy 33:27: "The eternal God is a dwelling place, and underneath are the everlasting arms; ... "
When our home is with the Lord, we can be assured that He holds us in His 'everlasting arms.' He's never going to fail us. Friends may abandon us; spouses may leave us; children may resent us; we may feel like a failure. But God will never forsake us. Our position with Him is secure.
Earlier in Deuteronomy (31:8), Moses assures the people of Israel, "The Lord is the one who goes ahead of you; He will be with you. He will not fail your or forsake you. Do not fear or be dismayed."
Really, what in this life is there to fear? No matter what life brings, Jesus will give you the strength to get through it. Cast you fears on Him. Jesus will catch you when you fall.

Jesus is the Boss

We may think we are the boss. We may make our plans and schedule our time but at any moment our lives may veer off course. What we think will happen today might be completely wrong. Remember it is God who orchestrates the events in our lives. Things may go smoothly or your well-laid plans may be thwarted.
God is in control ... even when (or especially when) the unexpected happens.
Many Christians quote Jeremiah 29:11 as their favorite Bible verse, " 'For I know the plans that I have for you,' declares the Lord, 'plans for welfare and not calamity to give you a future and a hope.' " Few go on to read the next verse,
" 'Then you will call upon Me and come and pray to Me, and I will listen to you.' "
We see the trees. He sees the forest. We may think He has sent us a calamity but he always has our best interests at heart. I especially like how The Message paraphrases Romans 8:28, "That's why we can be so sure that every detail in our lives of love for God is worked into something good." 
As long as our lives are lived as a love letter to God, He will make sure all that happens will be for our good. Not that we'll like everything He does. Sometimes discipline and hardship are good for us. Sometimes trouble and pain help develop character and perseverance in our lives. But often, He gives us something even better than we were expecting.
Isiah 55:9 and 11 tell us, "For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are My ways higher than your ways and My thoughts than you thoughts.  So My word be which goes forth from My mouth; It will not return to Me empty, without accomplishing what I desire, and without succeeding in the matter for which I sent it."
Jesus' job is to send the commands. He's the boss. We are the workers. Our job is to keep on trusting ... keep on loving ... Him.

Jesus Will Displace Worry with Peace

What is at the center of your life and who controls it? Do fear and worry fill that pond in the center? Do you try to handle everything all by yourself? It doesn't have to be that way. Jesus can replace the worry with Peace and He is much better at managing your life than you will ever be. Don't try to go it alone.
Seek God and you will find Him. He is asking you to search for Him. Psalm 27:8 tells us, "When You said, 'Seek My face,' my heart said to You, 'Your face, O Lord, I shall seek.' "
Ask Jesus and His Spirit to live in you and just watch the changes. Doubt is turned into Faith; Fear is turned into Trust; Worry is replace by Peace; Emptiness is filled with Love. Jesus longs to be invited in ... but He won't force Himself on you. You must do the seeking ... you must do the asking ... you must knock. Just ask Him; you don't have to beg or bargain or plead. He's only a whisper away.
"You will seek Me and find Me when you search for me with all you heart." Jeremiah 29:13. It does mean opening your whole heart; it does take sincerity. The new life you receive will be beyond your wildest dreams. A life fully devoted to God is rich and rewarding: full of hope and purpose. Don't wander around in the darkness. Come to the Light that Jesus offers. I've yet to meet a follower of Christ who has ever regretted the decision to let The Spirit take control. Live radiantly ... don't let anything dampen your search for Jesus.

Rocky Path Ahead? Jesus Gives You Deer Feet.

Our journey through life is bound to hit some rough spots. No life is completely free of bumps along the road. We each face our own particular stumbling blocks and challenges.
But take heart: God doesn't want you to face that rocky road alone. Habakkuk 3:19 paints this encouraging picture: "The Lord is my strength, and He has made my feet like hinds' feet. And makes me walk on my high places." (If you're wondering what a 'hind' is, the word refers to a female red deer.)
While I'm not a Biblical scholar, I am curious why God chooses the image of  female deers' feet. Why not a Billy Goat or a strong buck? Maybe because a female's legs are more fragile ... they are slender and more easily broken. That is certainly how my legs feel when I walk through rough territory. Because I am weak, I have an even greater need for God's help. He is the strong one, not me.
When we keep our eyes lifted up, looking into the eyes of Jesus, the rocky path doesn't seem so treacherous or scary. And look where he's leading us. Not on the smooth valley floor but up into the mountains. Our 'high places' are where we meet the most rewards and joy. It is from the heights that we can appreciate where we've been and see what's ahead. There is something thrilling about reaching the summit. When Jesus makes the journey with us and stands beside us at the top, it is even more exciting.
Some of us are afraid of heights: both physically and spiritually. We prefer the safe and secure route. But with Jesus holding your hand, you don't have to be afraid. II Timothy 1:7 assures us, "For God has not given us a spirit of timidity, but of power and love and discipline." Don't cling to the tried and true. Have courage. Strike out for the high ground ... with Jesus at your side.
A note: there is a wonderful book by Hannah Hurnard, "Hinds Feet on High Places." This story about Much-Afraid, Sorrow and Suffering in their struggle to follow the Chief Shepherd to the High Place is a beautiful allegory about changing weaknesses into strength and fear into faith. I highly recommend it.

Why Worry about Stuff That Won't Happen?

I do it. You do it. We all do it. We fill our minds with worry over things that are not even likely to happen. As if we don't have enough to worry about already, we waste our time thinking about stuff that's unlikely to occur.
Yesterday we talked about dwelling on the past: holding onto grudges and resentment about unfair circumstances. Today, let's look at our habit of living in the future ... a future that may never materialize. 
We worry about work: what will we say if the boss asks us to defend a decision. We worry about relationships: what will happen if friend A learns what we told friend B about them. We worry about our health: what if that mole turns out to be skin cancer and that cough turns into pneumonia. We worry about finances: what if the check bounces or we don't save enough for retirement and we wind up homeless. We worry about our safety: what if that new neighbor turns out to be a serial killer. Small things. Big things. Serious things. Ridiculous things.
We rehearse dialogue in our heads: "Well if he says this, then I'll say that." We make up dramas and play all the parts in all the imagined outcomes. Does any of this sound familiar?
Let's look at what the Bible says we should be thinking about instead. "Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is worthy of respect, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if something is excellent or praiseworthy, think about these things." Philippians 4:8
If we spent our time thinking about these things, we wouldn't have time to spend worrying about things that haven't happened and most likely never will.
I'm really good at "worst case scenario" thinking. But so what if the bottom falls out or the proverbial s_ _t hits the proverbial fan? I can't change anything by worrying about it ahead of time.
In the verses just prior to telling us what to fill our minds with, Paul says, "Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say rejoice! let your gentle spirit be known to all men. The Lord is near. Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God." Philippians 4:4-6.
The next time you catch yourself starting to worry about the unknown future, turn you mind toward Jesus. Start giving God thanks for the present moment. The past is over and done with ... we can't change the past. The future, for good or bad, hasn't gotten here yet ... we can't know the future. Live in the "now" ... with a prayer on your lips, thanksgiving in your heart, Jesus by your side and peace in your soul. It's the best way to live.

Holding a grudge? Forgive and Forget.

Did someone say something unkind? Did you suffer an injustice? Did a friend slight you or slam you? You're not alone. We all experience petty insults. There is a saying, "I can forgive, but I can't forget." But really, can you say you've forgiven someone when you still hold a grudge?
I believe Jesus calls us to both forgive and forget. How much time do we waste going over and over some unfair circumstance? How much 'soul-energy' do we use ruminating on an injustice? We need Jesus to take control of our minds and erase all trace of that sting.
Look at the life of Joseph in Genesis 37, 39-40. If anyone ever had reason to complain about the unfairness of life, it was Joseph. Hated by his brothers, sold into slavery by them, wrongly accused of rape, imprisoned unjustly ... and just when he thinks there is hope of release, the cup-bearer whose dream Joseph interprets, forgets all about him. Joseph had every reason to be depressed and resentful. But what do we see? Joseph relies on God through it all. He forgets the circumstances of the past. He doesn't wallow in self-pity. Instead, he meet every day with a spirit of thankfulness and does his best to excel at every task he's given. He is a leader whenever he goes, no matter what the situation. And God rewards him.
Later, when he is the ruler, directly under Pharaoh in the government, he meets his brothers again. They've come to Egypt because there is a famine. They don't recognize their brother at first. Is Joseph resentful? Has he held a grudge against them all those years? Does he try to make them feel guilty? No. He greets them with tears and hugs. He's not only forgiven them, he has even elevated their evil against him in his mind. He tells them in Genesis 50:20, "As for you, you meant evil against me, but God meant it for good in order to bring about this present result, to preserve many people alive. 'So therefore, do not be afraid; I will provide for you and your little ones.' So he comforted them and spoke kindly to them."
Can we follow Joseph's example. Can we let those insults and slights roll off our backs? Jesus will give us the ability to do so. Ephesians 4:31-32 says it all, "Let all bitterness and wrath and anger and clamor and slander be put away from you, along with all malice. Be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving each other, just a God in Christ also has forgiven you."
Let's learn to forgive AND forget.

Riding the Big Waves with Jesus

Does it sometimes seem that you will get caught in the undertow of a big wave? Do you feel like a tiny speck in a huge ocean of trouble? Do mammoth waves of doubt, financial ruin, broken relationships, poor health ... even waves of worry about the violence and turmoil in the world around you ... threaten to suck you under?
There is an answer: keep you eyes focused on Jesus and he will save you from the crashing surf. He will still the waters, just as He did for his disciples on Lake Galilee as told in Mark 4 37-41. Now, as then, Jesus speaks and the water becomes calm. Jesus says, "Be still," and the waves recede.
And again, in Matthew 14: 25-33, we have the story of Peter walking on the water to meet Jesus. Jesus invites Peter out onto the water where He is walking toward the boat. Verses 29 says, "And He said, 'Come!' And Peter got out of the boat and walked on the water and came toward Jesus." What happens next? Peter takes his focus off Jesus and starts to worry about the wind and the waves. Verses 30-31 continue," ... he became frightened, and beginning to sink, he cried out, "Lord, save me!' Immediately Jesus stretched out His hand and took hold of him, and said to him, 'You of little faith, why did you doubt?' "
He asks you the same: why do you doubt? Jesus is the ruler of this world ... nothing is beyond his command. When you keep your eyes on Jesus, no wave is too big to handle. But even when you feel like you're beginning to sink, if you cry out to Jesus "Save me!" he's not going to let you drown.
Jesus doesn't promise smooth seas all the time. We all have troubles, we all have doubts. Yet, what a thrill, when you look to Jesus and you're able to ride those big waves. Instead of wiping out, you can know God's peace. Philippians 4:7: "And the peace of God, which surpasses all comprehension, will guard you hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus."

There's No Use Pretending with Jesus

We all try to make a good impression on the people we meet. We use clothes and scents and creams and make-up to look our best. We want the world to see the version of us that puts us in the best light. But sometimes we don't really feel as 'together' as we like to appear.
I Samuel 16:7 tells us, "But the Lord said to Samuel, 'Do not look at his appearance or at the height of his stature ... for God see not as man sees, for man looks at the outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart."  
When you're dealing with God, trying to put a good face on things is pointless. He sees you as you really are ... warts and all. He knows your deep dark secrets and your greatest fears. You may manage to fool all the people all the time ... but you don't fool God.
And you know the amazing part? The part that's really hard to understand? He loves you anyway. He knows the worst, yet still want to be your friend. What a relief to hear the astounding news of Romans 5:8, "But God demonstrates His own love toward us, in that while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us."
This is the essence of the gospel. This is the Good News. God didn't wait to send you a savior until you had your act together. He didn't wait until you could prove you were worth saving. God sent his son to die for you while you were still covered in the dirt of every lie you've told, every petty theft from your employer, every mean thing you've said about a friend, covered in the dirt of every sin ... big or small. He loves you that much. He takes your weaknesses and makes them into strengths. He reforms your faults so you can help others. He knows you better than you know yourself.
Yes, truly, there's no use pretending with Jesus. He wants you to be the person you were always meant to be.

Greet the Day with Joy and Jesus

The gift of a new day. Can anything be as normal and yet exciting. Do you face the new day with fear and trepidation? Are you worried about some unexpected crisis? When you meet with Jesus each morning, those fears can disappear and the trepidation can be replaced with expectation.
Don't you love Psalm 118:24? "This is the day which the Lord has made; Let us rejoice and be glad in it." View each day as an adventure. Expect God to give you a surprise. Instead of trying to program the day according to our will, let God shape the day according to His Will. You have received a precious, unrepeatable gift. Trust Jesus to be with you each moment. Lean on Him and thank Him for His presence in you life. Remember Lamentations 3:22-23:

"The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases; his mercies never come to an end;

they are new every morning; great is your faithfulness.

The Lord is my portion,” says my soul, therefore I will hope in him.”

New mercies every morning! Greet today with joy and Jesus!

Whatever Today Brings, Jesus is There With You

As your day begins, you have only a vague idea of what may happen. Yes you have plans and schedules and chores but you cannot be certain about how your day will turn out. Only God knows your future.
Although we don't know what will happen today, we do know that Jesus will be right beside us. He will help us with any difficulties and rejoice with us in our victories. Don't you love the promise of Romans 8:38-39? "For I am convinced that neither death, not life, no angels, nor principalities, nor things present, nor things to come, nor powers, nor height, no depth, nor any other created thing, will be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord."
You heard that right: nothing outside ourselves can separate us from God's love. But we can separate ourselves. We can choose to ignore or reject Jesus' love. That's why it is so important to spend a few minutes with him at the beginning of each day. We get back in touch with our master. We pray for ourselves and others. We praise and glorify His name. When we fail to spend quality time with Jesus, we will be unprepared for what the day brings.
I love how The Message paraphrases our scripture in Romans: "I'm absolutely convinced that nothing ... nothing living or dead, angelic or demonic, today or tomorrow, high or low, thinkable or unthinkable ... absolutely nothing can get between us and God's love because of the way that Jesus our Master has embraced us."
"Embraced by Jesus." That's what my heart desires. As long as I'm held close to my master's heart, anything and everything that happens to me or around me is not going to change the fact that I'm loved by God.
We don't need a map for the road ahead. We have the one who made the road, who made us, and who will never abandon us. What is there to fear? We know that Jesus is there with us.

Thank Jesus BEFORE You Have an Answer

Jesus loves to hear our prayers. He wants to know what's on our minds, what's troubling us, what we need. Jesus longs to answer our prayers.
Today the devotion from "Jesus Calling" makes the suggestion to thank God for the answer to our prayer even before we see it. Instead of constantly repeating our request ... and instead of focusing on what we want but don't have ... let's begin offering prayers of thanksgiving before God gives us an answer. Matthew 21:22 assures us, "And all things you ask in prayer, believing, you will receive."
Having a thankful heart is the "believing" part. We are so certain that we will receive an answer from Jesus that we can thank Him ahead of time.
As I John 5:15 makes plain, "And we know that He hears us in whatever we ask, we know that we have the requests we have asked from Him." We can thank Him because we already have what we asked for. We can acknowledge and be grateful that Jesus is setting events in motion that will bring about an answer to our prayer. We can be grateful that He is working behind the scenes to give us our heart's desire. Colossians 4:2 tells us, "Devote yourselves to prayer, keeping alert in it with an attitude of thanksgiving." 
While we wait for God to act, we can start asking if we need to change our perspective, if we should take some action, if we can be more receptive, so that we will be ready to recognize God's answer when it comes.
The answer may not be what we first expected. God may say "Wait;" He may even say "No;" or He may do something totally amazing, beyond what we imagined. But we will see the answer more clearly and accept it more willingly, when we have already been thanking Him for answering our prayer.

Practice Trusting Jesus in the Good Times

As we grow in our ability to lean on Jesus for all our needs, we find that when we've learned to trust him when things are going well, it will be easier to call on Him when we face a crisis. Jesus calls it 'laying up treasure.' Here's what He says in Matthew 6:20-21: "But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust destroys, and where thieves do not break in or steal; for where your treasure is, there your heart will be also." 
Some of us have discovered that putting money in a savings account is a "habit:" the more we get used to adding to our savings account on a regular basis, the easier it becomes. In much the same way, the more we make a habit of trusting Jesus, the easier it will be to go to him for help when we really need it.
It is also much like a friendship. We are more likely to go to a friend for help than a stranger. If we are not strengthening our friendship with Jesus when the sun is shining, then He will be more of a stranger than a friend when the dark clouds start building up. If we have treasure in heaven, we won't be bankrupt when disaster strikes.
Jesus never fails; He never turns us away. What a blessing to know that we can always count on God's help. Psalm 56:3-4 teaches us, "When I am afraid, I will put my trust in You. In God, whose work I praise, In God I have put my trust; I shall not be afraid ..."
Are you laying up treasures in heaven? Try trusting Jesus in the good times and just see how much easier it will be to trust Him in the bad times.

Jesus says, "Hold up a minute."

Are you someone who tends to rush ahead with your own plans instead of waiting to hear what God wants? Do you make decisions and then go back to get God's approval? Guess what ... we're all in the same boat.
I've made plenty of wrong turns; rushed into things before finding out what God's choice might be. Yet, praise Jesus, He has always found ways to clean up my messes. He is faithful even when I'm not. He doesn't abandon me, even though I run off in the wrong direction.
Are we willing to take the advice of Psalm 27:14? "Wait for the Lord; Be strong and let your heart take courage; Yes, wait for the Lord."
Jesus simply asks us to wait. Why do we find that so hard? We put ourselves into stressful situations when we fail to wait for God's timing. My prayer is to learn to wait patiently until I'm certain I've heard God's OK before making any more life-changing decisions. I know my life will be so much better when I know I'm within His will. Life will be more enjoyable when I make the journey with Christ at my side ... not behind me, trying to catch up. I only hope in the future I pay more attention when Jesus says, "Hey, hold up a minute."

Can Hope in Jesus Overcome Depression?

The 'Jesus Calling' devotional today claims: 'Hope in Me, and you will be protected from depression and self-pity.' Will the golden cord of hope bear the weight of your despair? Can hope in Jesus really overcome depression? I believe there is reason to think so. I can affirm from my own experience that hope brought me out of a troubled time in my life.
Nearly three years ago, right after I moved from Hawaii to San Diego, I experienced a 'dark night of the soul.' Near my birthday in March, I started feeling disconnected from the world around me. I had no friends in the area. I wasn't reading my Bible. I had stopped going to church. I lost my sense of purpose. My days were almost surreal. Other people seemed happy ... but why? Life seemed meaningless.
Thankfully this period of depression was short-lived. I connected with old friends. I began attending a good church again. I found new purpose and direction for my life. I started to hope that tomorrow would be better than today. Jesus led me out of that spiritual desert to a place of refreshing water and tender care.
Depression is often a soul-sickness. Despair may mean we've forgotten that Jesus offers all the help we need. Purposelessness can be the result of losing our connection to God.
If you struggle with depression, try looking outside of yourself ... to Jesus and to friends. Focus on others: find a way to serve someone else. Believe that Jesus is only a prayer away. Start reading the Psalms. Be encouraged by Romans 15:13, "Now may the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that you will abound in hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.
You can find a purpose for your life again if you trust God to supply it.You can overcome depression if you ask Jesus to give you hope.

All of Heaven and all of Earth Praise Him

Today's devotion talks about the joy in praising God. Adoration of God comes in many forms: a child's prayer, a song, a sermon, a bird's flight, the earth's delight in the creator. I'm reminded of Psalm 148, that great song of praise. Christ said if the people did not worship God, then the very stones would cry out.
I'd like to share a wonderful demonstration of the reality of Psalm 148. Louis Giglio puts together the sound of pulsing stars with the songs of whales in a beautiful chorus of praise. If you haven't seen this video before, I encourage you to view it now.

http://youtu.be/7zWKm-LZWm4

Even though God has all of heaven and all of earth to give him glory, he still seeks your praise and thanksgiving. We have an opportunity to join in with the rest of creation to give him praise. Fill those spare moments of your day with a word of thanks or an offering of praise.

Jesus Gives More than We Can Imagine

"More than we can imagine!" What a promise Jesus gives us in Ephesians 3:20: "With God's power working in us, God can do much, much more than anything we can ask or imagine." Has this happened in your life? I know it has in mine. I never imagine I'd ever own my own home ... yet Jesus provided one. I never imagined I'd have the opportunity to go back to college ... yet Jesus gave it. So many times I've asked the Lord for one thing and He's answered with more than I knew I could ask for.
You'll notice in the scripture above, that the operative phrase is "With God's power working in us, ..." It is only when we surrender all to Jesus that we can expect the unexpected. When we try to fix things on our own, we may achieve what we set out to do. But when we turn to Jesus for help, we often get something beyond what we could do ourselves.
Seems like the more extreme the difficulty, the more we see God's power at work. Just listen to this great promise in Isaiah 40:31, "Yet those who wait for the Lord will gain new strength; they will mount up with wings like eagles, they will run and not get tired, they will walk and not become weary." Don't get tired or weary, just keep imagining the unimaginable.

Learning to trust Jesus through adversity

It's easy to say "I trust You, Jesus" when the sky is blue and everything is going as planned. But what happens when the clouds roll in and our perfect life begins to crack? It is when we face the tough days or go through times of despair, that we  know what trusting in Jesus really means. If we think we can handle everything ourselves, if forget Jesus, we either fall flat or become selfish and self-centered. If instead we rely on Jesus, we see how capable He is in standing by us and seeing us through the rough times. We can count on Him.
II Corinthians 4:7-9 gives us such hope: "But we have this treasure in earthen vessels, so that the surpassing greatness of the power will be of God and not from ourselves; we are afflicted in every way, but not crushed; perplexed, but not despairing; persecuted, but not forsaken; struck down, but not destroyed."
Without the trials and temptations, we can't learn what it's like to live a life completely dependent on Him. Every failure is followed by growth: in faith, in spirit, in power, in love. We can live a victorious life. We can have more than we can even think or imagine. First, however, we must learn to trust Jesus through adversity.

"I Trust You, Jesus."

My selected devotional for 2014, "Jesus Calling" by Sarah Young makes this suggestion today: learn a new habit, say "I trust You, Jesus," in response to whatever may happen in our lives. Sick or in poor health? "I trust You, Jesus." Broken relationships or strained friendships? "I trust You, Jesus." Loss of a job or financial difficulties? "I trust You, Jesus." Depressed or directionless? "I trust You, Jesus."
In every situation, the answer is always, "I trust You, Jesus." Just think of His power ... to heal, to calm, to bring joy and peace. Believe He is beside you, ready to help you in the trying events of life. Why do we fret? Why worry? What have we to fear? We have the master of the universe as our friend.
In Isaiah 30:11 we find comfort: "Like a shepherd He will tend the flock, In His arm He will gather the lambs and carry them in His bosom; He will gently lead the nursing ewes." 
What more can we ask for? What joy to be held near His heart. We receive these blessings with gratitude ... and the fortitude to just keep repeating, "I trust You, Jesus."

Peace in Jesus

As the year begins it is easy to fall back into old patterns of worry and concern. Jesus calls us out of those patterns into the calm of his presence. Psalms 31: 20 assures us, "You hide them in the secret place of Your presence from the conspiracies of man; You keep them secretly in a shelter from the strife of tongues." How wonderful to know that we can cast our cares on him and he will hide them "in the secret place of Your presence."
We let so many things rob us of our peace. It is unnecessary: causing us pain we don't need to bear. In John 16: 30, Jesus tells us, "These things I have spoken to you, so that in me you may have peace. In the world you have tribulation, but take courage, I have overcome the world." Courage comes not from our own abilities to handle our problems but directly from the hand of God. Accept the peace that Jesus offers.

My friend Jesus

As we come into God's presence each day, we put aside our chores and daily cares to simply sit down with a friend. For most of my life I've addressed our Savior as "Lord" or "Christ." But this year I want to learn to call him my his name, "Jesus." We don't call our close friends by their last name or by their official title, such as Doctor or Esquire. When we speak to friends, we use first names. And above all else, that is what Jesus is to me: my BFF (and I do mean Forever.) He has asked me to be his friend. How can I ignore that invitation?
In today's devotion in "Jesus Calling," by Sarah Young, we are reminded of the story of Mary and Martha in Luke 10:39-42. Martha had an important guest in her home, her Lord and Savior, and so we can understand that she'd want to have everything perfect for him. But her sister Mary was content just to sit at the feet of her friend to hear what he had to say. Luke tells us that Mary chose what is better ... something that will not be taken away from her.
Household tasks can wait. Errands can be put on hold. Right now, we can choose the better part ... to sit with our friend and listen to what he has to tell us. What a privilege to have a conversation with our friend, Jesus, something that will never be taken away from us.

Aware of His Presence

A brand new year. A brand new devotional book, "Jesus Calling." A brand new journal. I love how God knows us so well. What a blessing to put the old behind us and reach out to a new beginning. Not only are His mercies new every morning, His presence is new and newly available each new year. We have a new opportunity to renew our minds (Rom. 12: 2): to start fresh, learning to be conscious of His care and devotion each moment of the day. In my quiet time this morning I was reminded of that lovely hymn, Moment by Moment:
"Moment by moment I'm kept in His love;
Moment by moment I've life from above;
Looking to Jesus till glory doth shine;
Moment by moment, O Lord, I am Thine."
That is my song and my prayer on this first day of 2014. His love never fails. Jeremiah 29:11 tells us "I also know the plans I have for you: plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future." What a wonderful promise for the new year: hope and a future. Begin each day in His presence and stay close to Him all day long. Happy New Year, friends.