Pressing On

“. . . But this one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind, and reaching forth unto those things which are before, I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus.” (Philippians 3:13–14)

How are you faring since the start of this new year? Having reached the halfway mark is an excellent time to evaluate your spiritual life and how you’ve handled day-to-day monotonous activities. Have you stood firm in the goals you set for this year?

Regrets can be crippling, even those from only today. Can you imagine what a lifetime of regrets can do to your spiritual walk? Paul learned the secret of forgetting the past even though it stayed in his memory. We know this because, at times, he referred to God’s grace and mercy that saved him from who he once was. His “forgetting” was a choice to not dwell on the past; instead, using it to testify how God changed his life. Paul chose to focus on who he became in Christ and the glorious life that awaited after finishing life’s race. As he strived for perfection to be like Jesus, he kept pressing on until the day he entered the realm of glory, home with his Lord.

Paul and his fellow workers could encourage others to pattern their lives after them because they lived like Jesus (v. 17). We would do well to heed his appeal. As we run this race of life, many distractions will vie for our attention, but like Paul, choose to let go of past hurts and failures; stay focused. Keep your eyes on Jesus, persevering for the prize that awaits at the finish line: Home with the Lord. 

The Sound of Peeps

“Make haste, O God, to deliver me; make haste to help me, O Lord .” (Psalm 70:1)

A baby bird fell from its nest and frantically peeped for help as his parents flew back and forth. They wanted to help their loved one but had no way to put it back into the nest. As I tried to rescue the chick, it hopped away, out of reach. The little bird wanted to be saved but considered me a threat. So, he cried out to the ones he trusted, but they were unable to do so.

Humans can be like this little bird. Some people don’t trust the one offering help, while others refuse rescue attempts. They want it their way, no matter what fallout comes to themselves or others in their path. Other people desperately cry out for help but turn to those who have no clue how to help or those who are untrustworthy to speak the truth they need to hear.

If you have fallen from where you are supposed to be—for whatever reason, whether in thought, actions, poor decisions, or wrong decisions—you can always call out to God. Our Father hears you; even the silent, unspoken cries from your heart. He is Almighty God; He can and will help you. God loves you deeply and longs for your trust. He will rescue you from the momentary distresses of this world and wants to save your soul. If you have not already invited His Son Jesus into your life, do it now. God wants you safely where He created you to be—with Him. 

Straight Rows

“No man, having put his hand to the plough, and looking back is fit for the kingdom of God.” (Luke 9:62)

Decades ago, I asked a farmer friend how he kept the rows so straight as he plowed. Never thinking his reply would one day be printed as a devotional thought, I am thankful I remember what he told me. To keep the rows straight, he found something in the distance ahead, fixated his gaze on that point, and plowed his way towards it. I asked if there was any significance for keeping the rows straight. He replied that straight rows merely represented pride in the work.

Straight rows showed there was no looking back once the work started. What would have happened if there was the slightest distraction as the farmer plowed? Course deviation—crooked rows. The crookedness of rows does not affect a crop, but the field looks inconsistent.

Jesus was clear in His command to the man. He simply said, “Follow Me” (v. 59). Jesus called him to preach about the Kingdom of God. The man replied he would follow but not until after his father’s death. It seems a hard saying for Jesus to call this man to follow, expecting him to leave the care of his father to the hands of someone else, even another family member. His duty as the eldest son was to care for his aged father and supply a proper burial when the time came. By requesting first to bury his father, he had not fully surrendered to follow the Lord. Looking back, not entrusting his family to the Lord, he created a crooked row.

 Wanting to follow Christ is correct, but desire alone will not assure your place in God’s work or family. If He calls you to a particular task and you reply, “I will follow, but first . . .,” you have placed Him second, saying He made a mistake in that calling.

When you decide the “what if,” “wait until,” or “but first” before answering God’s call to follow Him is the same as looking back, plowing with your family as the focal point, places God behind you, and that produces crooked rows. The remedy? Trust your life and family with God—trust His timing. As you fix your eyes on Jesus, put your hands to the plow and dig into the work that lies ahead. The result? Straight rows.

The Hem

“Moreover, as for me, God forbid that I should sin against the Lord in ceasing to pray for you: but I will teach you the good and the right way.” (1 Samuel 12:23)

The student thought, what is the big deal about a hem? It looked okay to her, but the teacher disagreed with her assessment. She had to rip it out and “do it right” because her final grade depended on a correctly sewn garment. As a young student, my friend didn't understand the significance of that hem—not then.

 The Israelites complained to God’s prophet Samuel; they wanted a king like the pagan nations. Imagine the rejection God must have felt since He was their King. So, God appointed a king to rule over them. God “voiced” His displeasure over their decision by sending rain and thunder on the day of harvest, and they feared Him, but not enough to repent of their rebellion. Samuel told the people that even though they wrongly demanded a king, he would not stop praying for them, continue to teach them the right way to live, and remind them to fear the Lord and serve Him. But the people constantly struggled with faithfulness to God—they kept “doing it wrong” repeatedly. They wanted that which was wrong; they were told it was wrong but refused to “make it right” (repent). Consequences: From that time forward, they suffered under the rule of evil kings more than those who did right in the sight of the Lord.

 What is so important about a hem? The hem is the finishing touch of an item, making it complete. A poorly sewn hem is noticeable, and the underside stitches, though not visible, are as crucial as the topside as they lock in place the top stitches. Looped or skipped under-stitches can catch a heel or other object, compromising the topside stitches. Sewing the hem properly from the beginning will save time, energy, and frustration.

My friend received a favorable final grade because she re-hemmed the apron as instructed. The apron hem, decades later, became a teachable moment that she passed onto others. Through the study of God’s Word, she learned the biblical principle that it is important to end well; it matters. Whether your task is sewing an apron, finishing a paper before the deadline, cleaning the house, or, as Moses, leading masses of complaining people, each of them requires dedicated work. You can complete a task at hand well or with a “this will do” attitude. The course of action you choose decides the result of your work.

Has God reminded you of an incomplete or flawed life-hem? He wants you to finish it. In doing so, you may need to “rip it out and do it right”—only then will your “hem” be complete. Avoid the consequences of a poorly sewn hem. Follow your Teacher’s instructions; once you finish your hem, He may use your experience as a teachable moment for others.

Starting well and finishing what you started is essential, but more importantly, to end well. What would you prefer to hear, “Rip it out and do it right?” or “Well done, good and faithful servant. . . enter thou into the joy of thy Lord?” (Matthew 25:23) I choose the latter.

(A personal rendition of The Hem posted by Carla Daves Troxclair. Used by permission.)

Reunion Day

“If any man serve Me, let him follow Me; and where I am, there shall my servant be: if any man serve Me, him will My Father honor.” (John 12:26)

The precious saint closed his eyes, and as he drew his last breath, an angel ushered him into the presence of his Lord and Savior—he stood face to face with Jesus!

I wonder if this loved one fell on his face and lay prostrate before his Maker. Since time is of no essence in heaven, one hundred years could pass, and it would seem like only the blink of an eye. I wonder at what point his sweet wife, who left him a decade earlier, greeted him. His daughter? His sister? His best friend, hunting, and fishing buddies? I can only imagine the reunion and celebration!

Even the most imaginative mind cannot depict the realities of heaven. Other than what the Word of God reveals, until we see for ourselves, we can only imagine. It must be breath-taking, just as the new heaven and new earth God will create as described in Revelation 21. Can you imagine streets of gold that are clear as glass? Twelve gates, each made of one pearl; walls of jasper garnished with priceless stones? There is no need for the sun, moon, or stars; God and the Lamb are the light. There is never darkness, sickness, pain, sorrow, or tears. No evil is present; only those whose names God wrote in the Lamb’s book of life can enter. I can only imagine.

There is a time to be born and a time to die (Ecclesiastes 3:2a). Even though it is hard to understand why He “gives and takes away” (Job 1:21) and sends rain on the just as well as the unjust (Matthew 5:45), this I know by faith: God is holy and just; He holds and controls everything; He sees everything; He is everywhere; He loves me, and I belong to Him—I trust God.

The life-door closed here on earth for Uncle Nathan, but moments before, God ushered a new life into the world: a precious baby boy who we covered with prayers from the time of conception to the moment of birth. Our great God, by His love, goodness, and grace, is our hope and healing.

Have you surrendered your life to Jesus? When your eyes close in death, they will reopen either in the presence of God or the place called hell. To see Jesus and reunite with loved ones in heaven, you must invite Jesus into your life. When you do, God writes your name in the Lamb’s book of life. Mine is there. Is yours? Make sure today. God does not promise tomorrow, not even another minute.

Just a Dollar

“Let brotherly love continue. . . Let your conversation [life] be without covetousness; and be content with such things as ye have. . .” (Hebrews 13:1, 5)

It was a trip planned with nothing particular in mind. As a young wife and mother, I had never experienced one of those with a fellow female shopper, and although not fond of shopping, I was ready for an outing. My sister asked her brother-in-law if he would care for our three-month-old baby while we went out for a short while. My husband agreed, and our two little girls were excited to help care for their baby brother.

Our excursion was only blocks away from home, so the trip was short but sweet. I did a lot of looking that day and spent only one dollar; I didn’t need anything, and besides, extra money was scarce those days. But my sister insisted upon buying perfume for me, and after some persuasion, I gratefully accepted.

Quality time doesn't require a lot of minutes, nor does it need to be costly, but it can make a lasting impression. My sister's time shared with me that day created precious memories I cherish: my first “girl” outing, sweet fellowship with her, only a dollar can bring satisfaction, and the perfume (my favorite that I still wear decades later) reminds me of my sister. The aroma of that day was more than a mere spritz of perfume.

What is this story's message? Not once did I ever feel deprived of friends, shopping, or finances. Although I had family living in the vicinity and was grateful, there were other times none lived nearby. The writer of Hebrews concluded his letter with various subjects: love one another, avoid the love of money and be satisfied with what you have—God will care for you and never abandon you. I was then, and still am today, beyond blessed.

When the Superhero Cape Comes Off

“And He said unto me, My grace is sufficient for thee: for My strength is made perfect in weakness. (2 Corinthians 12:9a)

The two little boys had their superhero imitation down to a fine art. Reenacting Superman’s stance and moves filled their days of playtime, whether together or alone. So they were thrilled when one of the moms gave them each a long red cape with an S emblem, and off, they “flew.” Likewise, the boys were ecstatic when they received the matching Underoos® that completed the Superman look. Wearing the costumes bolstered a sense of power as they imitated their hero. But they had to lay aside the capes and their symbol of strength when the outfits needed washing.

The apostle Paul faithfully served God, imitating Jesus. Yet when he asked the Lord to deliver him of a disorder referred to as “a thorn in the flesh,” there was only silence. After his third plea for deliverance, Jesus replied His power worked best through weakness, and His grace was enough. Healing or bolstered strength was not Paul’s answer, but yielding to and trusting the One who supplies everything we need.

Jesus was Paul’s strength in life’s challenges and wants to be your strength. But you must first acknowledge and surrender to the fact that you need help, the kind only God can supply. Can you say like Paul that you take pleasure in insults, hardships, persecutions, and troubles for the power of Christ to work through you? Will you trust Jesus’ strength “is made perfect” in and through your weakness? Can you say like Paul, “For when I am weak, then I am strong” (v. 10)? When your superhero cape comes off, Jesus’ grace is sufficient for all your needs as He works through your surrendered limitations.

Bending the Rules

“Jesus Christ the same yesterday, and today, and forever.” (Hebrews 13:8)

Before God created anyone or anything, the Word existed: “In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God” (John 1:1).

God’s written Word penned by men, inspired by the Holy Spirit thousands of years ago, still holds true today; it is eternally changeless. But sometimes, people change the message to suit personal, fleshly desires. Does this shock you? When children or grandchildren do wrong, some parents and grandparents find a reason for it, bend the rules, or brush it aside and forget the incident. Because their loved ones are a priority, they make exceptions for their behavior.

The same is true for adults who believe their circumstance is “special” and deserves the privilege of bending God’s Word. But if the Bible says your action (or inaction) is wrong, then it is wrong, no matter how you choose to spin the narrative. If you claim God told you to do something contradictory to His written Word, it wasn’t God speaking to you. He will not—He cannot lie against Himself.

God’s love is perfect, a tender yet tough love, an everlasting love; a love finite minds cannot understand this side of heaven. Though precious in His sight, we, God’s children, do not get a free pass to break nor bend His Word to satisfy personal longings. Bending is breaking. God has not changed: He is the same God from yesterday, the same today, and will be the same God forever.

Destination Unknown

“Here am I, send me.” (Isaiah 6:8)

King Uzziah’s death marked time; Isaiah saw the Lord sitting on a throne in the temple in a vision. As God’s glory filled the place, Isaiah knew he was unclean, unworthy, to be in His presence. One seraph took a hot coal from off the altar and touched his lips; God purged his sins. Then Isaiah heard the Lord asking who He could send (on a mission). Without hesitation, Isaiah volunteered to go. He had no idea what the task entailed, where he would go, or what to say—but he was willing to be used by God. That moment was a spiritual marker for Isaiah.

Is your life marked with spiritual reminders? Moments etched in time when you know you met Holy God: He asked (or commanded) you “to go,” or be still and know that He is God, or He spoke some other message you knew was from Him. If you have seen God move powerfully and He changed you, then He left spiritual markers as reminders of His activity. But not all spiritual remembrances are of obedience, some bear reminders of neglecting God’s guidance. Those markers are not there for condemnation but as reminders to avoid repeating the same mistakes, reminders of God’s love, faithfulness, and goodness when He carried you through the difficult times.

Have you heard God speak while in His presence? How did you respond? Were you obedient? Did you volunteer your service as Isaiah, or did you turn away? If you chose the latter, don’t let the enemy win a victory by convincing you it is too late to follow hard after God, to have a heart for Him. Receive the forgiveness God offers to all through the death and resurrection of His Son, Jesus, and say as Isaiah, “Here am I, send me.” 

Due Respect

Honor thy father and mother; (which is the first commandment with promise), that it may be well with thee, and thou mayest live long on the earth.” (Ephesians 6:2–3)

God’s Ten Commandments are clear of what He expects and demands of His people: He, our God and Father, is to be first and foremost in our lives; He shares second place with no one and no “thing.” The first four commands express what He expects concerning trust, obedience, worship, and needful rest, leaving no room for doubt. They govern our relationship with God, our Father, who loves us, watches over us, protects us, and provides for us. We are to love Him above everyone and everything.

The six commandments that follow concern our relationship with other people. The first of those is to honor our parents—the people charged with their children’s care. They are due respect regardless of worthiness or how difficult the years of upbringing may have been. We are to honor them because they are our parents—God said to do it. Time or one’s age doesn’t limit the charge of respecting our parents; if there is breath, God expects honor. If the caregiver role reverses, the child should do everything possible to provide for the parent’s comfort and care.

To honor father and mother carries the promise of well-being and long life. Practicing obedience to God’s commands from an early age provides an environment for forming good habits and living a productive life. Disobedience opens the door for bad habits that embrace unhealthy living, sometimes shortening one’s stay here on earth. Obedience to God is a choice, but He pours out lovingkindness and mercy on those who love Him and keep His commandments for thousands of generations (Exodus 20:6). Do you love and obey God? Blessings await when you do. 

Limping Along

“. . . How long halt ye between two opinions?”  (1 Kings 18:21a)

Physical disorders can cause a limp, and you walk differently. Continual limping will eventually impair otherwise healthy parts of the body as it favors the weak area. A stubbed toe causes the foot to hurt; the favored foot causes the knee to ache, causing a hip displacement, which creates a backache. When crutches are needed, the legs are dependent on the two “sticks” under the arms. But if you lift both feet, the legs dangle—you go nowhere. In that position, the legs grow weaker and weaker. You must decide how and where to walk, step carefully, and begin walking towards your destination.

Hobbling between two opinions: If the Lord is God, follow Him; but if the god of this world is god, follow him. In your Christian walk, you must know where you stand as a believer. Areas of uncertainty leave room for weakness. Spiritual weakness can cause a limp, hobble, or standstill in decision-making. Spiritual limping, just as physical limping, has the same destructive effect and can leave you defenseless in the face of the enemy. The same is true of wavering or dangling. As you dangle with decisions of where to stand biblically, uncertainty gains a foothold, and weakness settles in. You are either for something or against it, for God or against Him.

Elijah prayed to God that day for the wayward Israelites to know the only true God. God consumed the sacrifice, wood, stones, and dust when His fire from heaven fell; even the trench filled with water around the altar was “licked up.” The people fell on their faces and proclaimed, “The Lord He is the God, the Lord He is the God” (v. 39).

Jesus said you couldn’t serve two masters simultaneously; you will be faithful to only one (Matthew 6:24). Are you hobbling between two masters? You cannot serve God and love the world simultaneously; Jesus’ words, not mine. 

Mirror, Mirror, on the Wall

“Be ye doers of the Word and not hearers only, deceiving your own selves.” (James 1:22)

Glancing in the mirror, you noticed something “not quite right.”  But you were distracted just for a moment, and your day began—you forgot what the mirror revealed. When God’s Word speaks to your heart, you ponder the truth but sometimes forget or choose to neglect His message during the busyness of your day.

James writes encouraging Christians to be doers and not just hearers of God’s Word, ridding one’s life of anger or any evil that hinders walking daily with Christ. Remembering what you hear or read from God’s Word is commendable. You heard inspiring messages; the Word spoke to your heart; you were challenged and convicted of sin—wonderful! But how helpful are a stirred heart and a headful of knowledge if you don’t act on them?

James likens “hearers only” to people looking in a mirror. They glance at their face, walk away, and forget what they saw (v. 23–24). But forgetting, ignoring, or pretending what you saw doesn’t change the truth. As a mirror reveals its message when you gaze into it, so God’s Word by the Holy Spirit explains how you should live and what to purge from your life when you open and read it. By meditation and obedience to God’s instructions, you are not just a hearer, but a doer of the Word, and God’s blessings will be yours (v. 25).

Silence is Golden

“Keep not Thou silence, O God: hold not Thy peace, and be not still, O God.” Psalm 83:1

Silence is the absence of sound—total quietness. Noiseless moments are scarce, especially amid hectic daily routines. Yet because of their scarcity, they are precious to embrace. We can use these moments for prayer, introspection, and regrouping; being still from the busyness of life can be refreshing. For such times as these, the phrase “Silence is golden” is a truth. Unfortunately, however, there is an unwelcoming quietness: God’s deafening silence.

You have a pressing need and have petitioned the One who can act mightily on your behalf. But there is silence. God, why haven’t You answered my prayer? Don’t You see the enemy surrounding me? Have I done something wrong? These are questions you may ask when facing God’s silence. Your ears ache as you strain to hear from Him, but nothing, no word.

There are times when you may not want to hear from God; you turn a “deaf ear” when you live disobediently to His commands. But this is not one of those times; you long to hear His voice. So, why hasn’t God answered you? He is trusting you with His silence. God hears and sees everything. He listened to your prayer and now, He wants you to trust Him, and He is watching. As you wait in His silence, praise Him—thank Him for who He is and that He has your best interest in mind. God is pleased with your trust, and you will experience a deeper fellowship with Him.

Times void of life’s noise can bring refreshment for the soul. As you wait in the quietness and stillness, use these moments wisely by nourishing yourself with God’s Word, meditating on its truths, and claiming the promises. Keep your ears tuned for God’s voice and trust that He hears and sees.

Branded

“Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary, the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour.” (1 Peter 5:8)

When you asked Jesus to be Lord of your life, Satan painted a bullseye on you, no matter your age. He hates you because you no longer belong to him; you are now a child of God, and he is furious. Because he no longer has authority over you, he has targeted you. He wants to steal from you everything of importance; he wants to destroy you, but he cannot take your spirit.

What are the tactics of the enemy of your soul? According to Ephesians 6:16, the devil will shoot darts at you. Not just any darts, but fiery, poisonous ones to inflict the most pain once it penetrates. Fiery ones with flames that can brand you. Darts that leave lasting reminders that he was able to wound you badly enough to leave scars. Reminders that your shield—your faith in God, your confidence in Him, your reliance on the truth of His Word that was to protect you—was not correctly in place.

Why would branding be critical to the enemy? A brand is a mark of ownership. He knows he can no longer own you but wants you to bear a lasting symbol of his handiwork. After falling into his temptations’ traps, he causes pain, regret, and embarrassment by reminding you of his devious works done in your life. As you allow fear, doubt, shame, or guilt to settle in, he wants you to believe he has regained control of your life with an unstoppable and unbreakable foothold. But remember, Satan is a liar and defeated foe. As a child of God, he has not regained, nor can he ever gain ownership of you again. You belong to God. Period.

When you cry out to your Father for help, He is always nearby; He doesn’t want your mind held captive by the enemy and his ugly reminders of past failures. Wounds’ scars may be visible but let them be your reminders of when God showed up mightily and scattered the enemy from your life.

There is a distinguishing mark that believers in Christ should have—every thought, word, and action should be “branded” by it: Love. Jesus said it is by our love for one another that all people will know we belong to Him (John 13:35). Does your life bear love’s brand?

Twisted With the Lord

“But they that wait upon the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up on wings of eagles; they shall run and not be weary; and they shall walk and not faint. (Isaiah 40:31)

In context, the words “wait upon” are not passive but active. Here they mean look, hope, trust in a way that binds and twists together like a cord. The verses leading to this promise speak of us who need help, for we grow weary of dealing with everyday life, and our strength often wains. But God, Creator of all that is, gives power and strength to those who “wait upon the Lord.” He wants us to be “twisted” with Him.

What is the promise of being bound with the Lord? He renews our strength. If we try to handle what life brings by our wisdom and abilities, we will grow weary and weak. But because He is strong, and we are twisted with Him—waiting upon Him— we are resilient. It is His Word—His promise to us.

Once you have chosen this twisting with the Lord, how will you rise above life’s drudgeries? On wings like eagles. The eagle (a symbol of freedom) reminds us that as a child of God, we have freedom in Christ, set free from the bondage of sin. The wingspan of an eagle is enormous, which enables it to catch the wind and fly higher than most birds. Once high in the sky, effortlessly, they simply soar without falling. You, too, can not only rise above life’s drudgeries but fly—as though you have enormous and powerful wings, catching the wind of God, soaring high above the difficulties that keep you suppressed. When your feet reach the ground, you can run again and not be exhausted; walk and not be tired. Why? Because your “waiting upon” has bound (twisted) you with the Lord, you have a renewed strength, His power surging through you. What promises! Ours because we chose to “wait upon the Lord.”

Child of God, are you weary, exhausted? As you look to Him, hope in, and trust Him, you bind with Him like a twisted cord. He wants to fill you with power and a renewed strength so you can soar like an eagle.

When Fear Collides with Faith

“Now Jericho was straitly shut up because of the children of Israel; none went out, and none came in.” (Joshua 6:1)

The city of Jericho had double walls surrounding it. The outer wall was six feet thick; the inner wall was twelve. Space in-between the walls was at least twelve feet, and both were thirty feet high. Yet, the inhabitants of Jericho were afraid. Why? The kings of the Amorites and the Canaanites heard how the Israelite’s God dried a passageway through the sea and the river when they came out of the wilderness: “their hearts melted, and no spirit was left in them” (5:1). They were terrified of the Israelites’ God and His people!

Fear is a terrible monster. It can debilitate, paralyze, and hold people captive—if allowed. Yes, fear must be allowed entrance into our lives. Why would anyone do this? Even though issues faced daily vary, a lack of faith is at the top of the list. But there is also a healthy fear, a holy fear. In God’s Word, the writers, under the Holy Spirit’s leading, tell us to fear God (e.g., Proverbs 1:7; 1 Peter 2:17). We are to hold Him in awe, respect, and fear the consequences of living disobediently.

Faith, on the other hand, is believing and trusting without seeing proof. Faith in God can move mountains in our lives (Matthew 21:21). Our faith in God proclaims we are confident He is who He is and will do what He says. Does fear have a foothold in your life? Arise, child of God. He is on your side; victory is yours through Jesus Christ.

The Israelites defeated Jericho because they followed God’s instructions and trusted Him for victory. When fear collides with faith, faith is the victor. Who can win this battle against the world? Only those that believe Jesus is the Son of God (1 John 5:4–5).

Pile of Ashes

“Where no wood is the fire goeth out . . .” (Proverbs 26:20)

The flames’ glow and warmth from the burning wood in the fireplace not only took the chill from the room but brought a sense of serenity, a warm peace. By bedtime, the stack of logs had burned down to only ashes. We placed large, chunky logs on the grate, hoping they would heat overnight and ignite quickly in the morning. The next day, to my surprise, only ashes remained. What happened? As I poked in the ashes, hiding underneath the residue were red-hot embers—waiting for an opportunity to ignite.

Some people wait for prime moments to drop choice words for igniting juicy conversations. Many comments aren’t necessary with at least one willing listener. This mix will achieve the intended purpose: spread rumors and stir people's emotions whether the gossip is true. Gossipers and gossip-receivers who pass along such conversations are character-slayers and sow discord. Scripture likens such people to broken pieces of a clay pot dipped in contaminated silver (v. 23). The “prettiness” and “smooth talk” of gossip come from damaged containers with tainted intentions.

How can we stop talebearers? Turn away from their enticing words. Choose to put the fire out before it begins. By doing so, you may cause them to rethink their actions, and they repent. The end of verse twenty says: “And where there is no talebearer, the strife ceaseth.”

In-Laws, Out-Laws, and In-Betweens

“The spirit of man is the candle of the Lord, searching all the inward parts of the belly.” (Proverbs 20:27)

In-laws, the extended family if you are or have been married. But consider in-laws from a different perspective. God has supplied us a standard by which to live—the Bible. It is not a book of rules about what we can and cannot do, but His Living Word of how to live rightly. As we live in obedience to His commands, we will experience His blessings. 

Out-laws are usually evident in a movie, book, or the daily news. These are people who deliberately and unashamedly act contrary to the law of the land and God. Just as outlaws rightfully gain their title by choosing to live outside of the law, we as believers become “out-laws” when we blatantly live contrary to God’s commands. But “in-law” status is restored when we confess our sins; there is a turning away from the wrong, back to God (repentance), and live obediently once again.

In-Betweens struggle between living within the law, outside the law, or straddling the fence. Indecisiveness is of little significance when selecting which restaurant for a meal out but can wreak havoc with spiritual matters. It is impossible to serve God while holding on to the things of the world—there is no in-between with God. You are either in or out—with God or against Him.

The conscience is the candle of the Lord, searching the inward parts of man. What will the light of the Lord within you reveal God searches your innermost being? Your conscience knows if you an in-law or out-law; there is no in-between.

Calculations Without God

“Behold I will do a new thing; now it shall spring forth; shall ye not know it? I will even make a way in the wilderness, and rivers in the desert.” (Isaiah 43:19)

A toddler works, with frustration mounting, to fit a square block into the round hole. You want to help, but the little one quickly rejects the offer with, “I want to do it.”

We smile at such recollections, yet we are sometimes just as stubborn as the toddler. We make our agendas, set our goals, map out our plans, and begin the process of making them become a reality. Unless we start our tasks at hand with, “God, this is the desire of my heart, but I want what you want” approach, we will find ourselves frustrated and weary from pounding on square blocks, doing our best to force them into round holes. We will eventually achieve the tasks with determination by doing them our way, but not without leaving the blocks and holes misshapen and scarred. 

A toddler has an excuse for such behavior, but we do not.

Nest Rules

“As a bird that wandereth from her nest, so is a man that wandereth from his place.” (Proverbs 27:8)

From observation, birds have specific duties: eat to fulfill daily needs, find mates, build nests, start families, and tend families. Birds’ nests are usually made in a protected area, out of easy reach to predators and humans; wandering away from the nest or neglect of the eggs invite certain doom. Caring for the little ones is a top priority; they are beak-fed and taught to strengthen their wings in preparation for flight. When ready to venture from the nest, they are trained to find food but are still immature and need protection and nurturing. Not following the nest rules puts the chick in grave danger—his eagerness to go his way often leads to his death.

The biblical principle of wandering away from your “place” (where you are supposed to be) puts not only yourself but those in your charge at risk. God loves you, nurturing and supplying your daily needs. When you step away from His provisions and protective care, you are vulnerable to attack from the enemy and predators of this world who want to destroy you and those you love.

Just as danger awaits a nest of eggs left unattended by a wandering bird, so it is for people who wander from where they are supposed to be—content under the care of their Maker.

Eye-Awakening Appointment

“And immediately there fell from his eyes as it had been scales, and he received his sight forthwith. . .” (Acts 9:18)

No matter how much I cleaned the lenses, my glasses stayed smudged—everything I saw seemed blurred. It was time for new glasses.

Weeks later, sitting in the big chair with all the examining gadgets nearby, I explained my dilemma to the doctor. After hearing my story, he said, “Hmm, well, let me take a look.” After the eye exam, he looked at me and said, “You have cataracts.” I was stunned! No one in my family had cataracts—that possibility never crossed my mind. To ensure his diagnosis was correct, I mentioned that I heard cataracts must reach a particular stage before surgery is needed. With a slight smile, he kindly replied, “You passed that stage a long time ago.” I faulted my glasses as the problem, but it was my vision.

Traveling to Damascus, Saul, later called Paul (the apostle), was surrounded by a light from heaven. As he fell to the ground, Jesus introduced Himself and instructed what he should do. Saul rose from the ground, blind. It was not until he followed Jesus’ instructions that “the scales” fell from his eyes, and God restored his sight. God blinded Saul for him to “see” the truth. Once he saw The Truth (Jesus), he became a mighty man of God, proclaiming and writing the Good News of the risen Savior, Jesus Christ.

What is it that blurs your vision? How quick we are sometimes to jump to conclusions on matters because we see through faulty lenses. The only way to assure precise spiritual vision is to look through a clean and faultless lens—the “smudge-free” truth of God’s Word. 

Love Unleashed

“But God commendeth His love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us.” (Romans 5:8)

Looking into Scout’s eyes, filled with excitement and anticipation of facing another adventurous day, I wonder if he remembers where he lived only months ago. Though the folks at the rescue center cared for him, I wonder if he realizes the blessing of living outside his three-by-five pen in a permanent home with a family who loves him. And after only three short days on a leash to grow accustomed to his new environment outdoors, he was free to roam leash-free as he pleased.

Before time began, God planned and created a perfect place for His creation of humankind. Although knowing Adam and Eve and every human born after them with freedom of choice would fail miserably, it was a perfect plan. His plan was salvation for all humanity, loving the world so much that He sent His only Son to pay our sin debt. Because the wage of sin is death, we deserved to die, but Jesus sacrificially gave His life in our place (Romans 6:23). Yet not everyone accepts God’s love gift but chooses to stay leashed within the confines of sin’s cage. 

God loves you and invites you not only to call Him Father but Abba (Daddy). You will experience unleashed love and freedom in Christ when you join God’s family by calling out to Him for salvation.

Tenderly Tough

“But in all things approving ourselves as the ministers of God; in much patience, in afflictions, in necessities, in distresses,” (2 Corinthians 6:4)

The pads of his paws were soft and smooth, like velvet. That was when he first arrived at his new home. Because of the terrain Scout now travels—a limestone driveway and woodsy terrain filled with pinecones, logs, sticks, stickers, and briars—his paws have adjusted. They now resemble fine-grit sandpaper. His new way of life toughened him up.

New believers in Christ enter a new home, with a new family and a new way of life. Surroundings may look the same, yet they are different. Your heart is open to learning more about the One who saved your soul from eternal destruction and the importance of treating others as you would have them treat you. Your heart is tender, moldable, and teachable.

Believers growing in the knowledge of Christ travel different life terrains: some soft and smooth; some rocky and steep; some slippery and downhill; some with well-lit paths, while others in shadows or darkness. Each terrain carries its type of “wear and tear” on us physically, mentally, emotionally, and spiritually—each toughening us as we journey this life. So, we should not be surprised if the world hates us; Jesus said it hated Him first (John 15:18). At times we may even face difficulties from fellow believers.

The apostle Paul was also familiar with traveling various and challenging life-roads. As he shared some of those hardships he and his co-workers endured, he testified that they proved themselves as faithful ministers of God (v. 5–12).

Although different trades of life, farmers, carpenters, and musicians of stringed instruments have at least one thing in common: callouses; the hands form callouses from the “wear and tear” of everyday activity as shields of protection. But hearts also must be guarded against an internal reaction to facing life’s challenges: building walls of calloused protection. To be a godly influence and positively influence the world around you, a toughness tempered with tenderness is helpful. But how do you avoid a calloused heart? As you live and minister tenderly tough, allow your heart to remain moldable and teachable.

The Tortoise and the Hare

“Train up a child in the way he should go and when he is old, he will not depart from it.” (Proverbs 22:6)

Spaniels instinctively flush game out from bushes and retrieve waterfowl shot down by the hunter. Dachshunds are scent dogs that trail and hunt tunneling animals like rabbits. Our young dog, a mix of both breeds, proved his instincts needed honing.

Scout’s first encounter with a box turtle was entertaining. He had never seen one and had no clue what to do with it. Sensing no danger from the curious furry creature, the turtle slowly made its way across the backyard from one pond to the next. Scout was close by, sniffing it and the path it journeyed. He has enjoyed “visiting” with other turtles making the same trek. His visits were pleasurable until he found a turtle in the workshop. As Scout began his customary nose-to-nose greeting, his “Daddy” warned him several times to leave this one alone. Disregarding the warnings, the turtle not only snapped at Scout but latched onto his nose. This one was not a harmless box turtle but a snapping turtle. Once he shook it off, Scout gave him the space he demanded.

Training and experience—two basics through which we learn. We are instructed in Scripture to train not only our children but “a child” how to live godly. Using God’s Word, we teach them what is safe and God-honoring rather than learn through the pain of mistakes and sin. Such training takes commitment. For the good of the child, the trainer must persevere despite their cries of rejection. A loving, disciplinary hand is less painful than shaking off sin’s snapping grip. Persevere in your training so the little ones entrusted to your care will one day recognize and avoid the enemy's snares and life's needless pain. 

Pleasure and Consequences

“Now no chastening for the present seemeth to be joyous, but grievous . . .” (Hebrews 12:11)

For our little, short-legged dog, running through fields of tall grass is right up there with chasing squirrels and birds and running alongside the four-wheeler and golf cart. I enjoy watching him find such joy in simple pleasures, but with those pleasures comes a challenge—removing cockleburs. Scout tries to remove them, but some are out of reach or embedded, so I must take them off strand by strand of fur.

Scout doesn’t seek me for cocklebur removal because he knows it will be an uncomfortable ordeal yet will sometimes sit on my lap and accept my help. Because pulling on his coat is necessary, there is no appreciation, but my help is needed. Unless dealt with, the intruders stick to each other, embedding themselves further and magnify the problem.

Sin is like cockleburs. Each time we miss the mark of perfection (sin), one cocklebur after another attaches itself to our life. Before long, they cover us and, efforts to remove them prove futile. Some are out of reach—others embed themselves. Even though we may not seek our Father’s help, He lovingly steps in and begins the process of removal, called discipline. His help is often uncomfortable, unappreciated, and at times painful.

If you are God’s child, He will discipline you (v. 7). If sinful living is a continual part of your life, and you don’t experience His correction, you don’t belong to Him (v. 8). The result of God’s discipline? “But afterward, there will be a peaceful harvest of right living for those who are trained in this way.” God’s chastisement is always for our good (v. 10b).

Tale of a Tail

“I find then a law, that, when I would do good, evil is present with me.” (Romans 7:21)

Our dog soon discovered the joy of chasing squirrels in his new country environment. As quick as he is, though, they are just a little faster—but not too fast for the hunters in our family. And following family tradition, the squirrel’s tail is always a treat for the family dog. After handing Scout the tail, he wasn’t sure what to do. Whining, he walked around with it, trying to figure it out. He played with it, buried it, unburied it, wanted to bring it indoors, went outside, and repeated the process.

After days of agony, he did what he knew not to do—he walked into the house with it dangling from both sides of his mouth. I was about to scold him, but he sat down at my feet and looked up at me as if to say, “Please, help me, I can’t take it any longer! I do not know what to do with this thing!” He then opened his mouth and dropped the grubby tail at my feet. He stood and pitifully walked away and never looked back. Scout knew there was only one way to end his misery; he dropped his burden at my feet. Trusting me to free him of it, he reluctantly walked away but didn’t look back.

The apostle Paul underwent an internal war over what he was supposed to do but instead did wrong. He felt enslaved to sin and asked who could deliver him from the burden he carried that looked like, felt like, and smelled like a dead body strapped to his back. He then answered the question and thanked God that deliverance is found only in Jesus Christ our Lord (v. 24–25).

No matter a problem’s size or situation, it causes anguish. And anguish weighs you down. You can drop all burdens at the feet of Jesus, and walk away. He can and will take them from you. Trust Him—and no looking back.

The Big Bluff

“Whom resist steadfast in the faith . . .” (1 Peter 5:9)

Despite their differences, our less-than-a-year-old, twenty-pound spaniel/dachshund puppy was willing to challenge the visiting uncollared, uninvited adolescent boxer. The stray dog was oblivious to the fact that his daily visits were unwanted. We managed to divert a confrontation, but one day he appeared unexpectedly, and the chase was on.  

Surprisingly, our dog had the boxer (three times his size) bluffed, but we were concerned the visitor would realize he could easily overcome our puppy. But a showdown calmed those concerns. When the stray appeared, Scout took off at full speed and, leaping into the air, barreled into him broadside. Yelping, the stray ran off, his nub tail tucked low with our little, short-legged, “faster than a speeding bullet” dog right behind him. Scout had no fear of his opponent. He had confidence he could conquer the boxer. Scout’s actions proved his mindset, and having "mom and dad" stand with him, added assurance.

The point? Our adversary, the devil, is a reality; he is powerful. His roar can paralyze you in your tracks. He prowls around looking to destroy lives (John 10:10a). He wants to discourage, weaken, and overwhelm you. He bluffs you into thinking life is hopeless and no one cares. But he is a liar! His bluff may hinder you, but with God’s help, you can be an overcomer. He can’t bluff the Creator of all that exists. All-powerful God is greater than he who is a defeated foe.

The Bible admonishes us to be clear-minded, watchful for the devil’s tactics, firm in our faith as we stand against him (1 Peter 5:7–9); confident the One who lives in us and stands with us has already conquered him that stalks this world. Do you confidently stand firm in faith as an overcomer against the enemy? Do your actions match your faith? 

The Door

“Then Jesus said unto them again, ‘Verily, verily, I say unto you, I am the door of the sheep.’” (John 10:7)

Once Scout was accustomed to our home after rescuing him from the animal shelter, he could go outside without supervision. Periodically one door is left slightly ajar so he can “come and go” as he pleases. In no time, he learned to nudge his nose exactly right to open the door. Other times that door is completely closed and for a good reason: too hot; rainy or stormy weather, possible threats to his safety, or it is time to rest. To go out the closed door, he must "ask permission" by ringing the bells that hang from the door handle. A “doggie door” was out of the question since we live in an area where critters of all kinds would welcome such an easy entrance into our home.

As I thought of a flapped door for pets to exit and reenter at will, my thoughts drifted to life doors we face each day. Although God gave us free will to “come and go” as we please, He desires we wisely choose the doors we enter—those where we will walk in righteousness, and bring honor to His Father and kingdom work. As a believer, when you choose to walk through doors contrary to the Word of God and no consequences follow right away, do not think for a minute it was unnoticed—it was not. Consequences for wrong or poor choices will follow. If you are walking according to His Word and find a door that is shut, it is always closed for your good. Asking or pleading with God to open a closed door outside of His perfect plan will surely cause grief.

In early biblical times, a shepherd worthy of his hire would lay across the entrance to the sheepfold, guarding the sheep entrusted to him with his life. No predators could reach the sheep under his watch without going through him (the door). Jesus said He is the door of the sheep, the Good Shepherd (vs. 11), and the only way to the Father (John 14:6). He is the only way to enter God’s sheepfold and live eternally with Him. 

Jesus voluntarily and physically laid His life down for us and resurrected so we could enter the family of God. Surrender your life to the Good Shepherd and trust Him. Under His watchful care, you will find comfort, safety, pasture, and rest. 

Obedience 101

“Behold this day I set before you a blessing and a curse;” (Deuteronomy 11:26)

We sent our seven-month-old puppy to a basic obedience training camp. When the week was over, we were given a hard copy of his commands and later, the trainer also sent a short video to exhibit the commands Scout was taught that we were to reinforce. We were assured if we learned these commands as well and rehearse them with Scout at least fifteen minutes a day for a month, they would be embedded into his memory forever. We were to use the word “Yes” every time he did something correct, followed by a treat.

These are the basic commands Scout learned, their meaning, and their relevance to us:

Watch me.  Eye contact is necessary; without his attention, all other commands are useless.

We are instructed to keep our eyes on Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith (Hebrews 12:2) and we are to imitate Him (Ephesians 5:2). Taking our eyes off the prize that awaits us (Jesus) guarantees stumbling as we run the race of life.

Sit. / Down.  Commands to sit or lay down involve coaxing the head; the body posture will follow.

There are times we simply need to sit or lay down and rest for refreshment of mind, body, and spirit. A great benefit of stillness is to stir our thoughts and remember—believe—that God is who He said He is (Psalm 46:10a).

Stand.  Get up.

We are commanded to tell the Good News of Jesus as we go about our daily activities (Matthew 28:19–20). There are also times when we must take a stance in battle against the enemy. When that time comes, stand confidently, suited in the full armor and power of God (Ephesians 6:13–14).

Stay.  Do not move.

The Holy Spirit of God within us will send a warning to stop when a wrong action, decision, or thought is contemplated (Acts 16:6–7). Wait for further instructions.

Come.  Move forward.

Jesus invites all to “Come after Me,” but not all will follow because there is a stipulation with the invitation (Luke 9:23). He demands first place in our lives.

Leave it.  If something drops or spills on the floor that is harmful or he shouldn't have, Scout was taught to leave it alone.  

There are many things we are instructed in Scripture to leave our old way of life—the old man (Ephesians 4:22, Colossians 3:9, 2 Timothy 2:22).

Off.  Scout knows to get off something or someone. When it seems like the enemy is all over your business and you want him off, surrender to God, resist the devil, and he will flee (James 4:7).

Ring the bell.  When Scout rings the bells that hang from the door handle, that is our cue he needs to go outside.

God’s always hears our requests and heart-cries for help (Psalm 66:19).

Jesus said two commandments cover them all: Love God with all our heart, soul, and mind, and love our neighbor as ourselves (Matthew 22:37). By learning and obeying these two, we follow all. God said He lays before us a blessing for following His Word or a curse when we stubbornly choose to go our own way. Which will you choose?

Captured Hearts

“Delight thyself also in the Lord, and He shall give thee the desires of thine heart. Commit thy way unto the Lord, trust also in Him; and He shall bring it to pass.” (Psalm 37:4–5)

After losing a family dog the second time, I had no desire for another one. But months later, to my surprise, my heart longed for a dog. My husband and I arrived at the animal rescue center, hoping to find a cocker spaniel, but not solidly bent in that direction. The only bent we had was not to have a nervous, licking, barking dog. We walked from kennel to kennel, trusting we would know the right one when we saw it. After viewing each one, we repeated our “interview.” The dogs were leaping up with paws on their gate by this time, barking excitedly—except for two. The last dog remained motionless, angrily glaring at us, while the first one we saw was still calmly and silently standing, slightly wagging his nub tail. This peculiar-looking little fellow had followed our every move with his sad but hopeful eyes and did not move until I extended my hand. Walking over to feel the touch of my fingers through the fenced gate sealed it—he captured our hearts. That day we became proud owners of a short, seven-month-old spaniel/dachshund mix dog.

What is the secret to getting what you want? The psalmist tells a simple truth: With a sincere heart, desire what God wants for you. If your desire is in keeping with His will, He said you would have it. You may be thinking, Really, a dog? Yes, even a dog. God knows everything we need to become who He called us to be for His purposes. With love and compassion, He not only supplies what we need but far surpasses those needs with an abundance of blessings—some sweet as lollipops, like a dog. As you commit yourself to God, seek what He wants, and say, “Father, not my will, but Yours.” When you do, you will receive His best.