The Tiniest Bit of Resentment

 “Let all bitterness . . . be put away from you. . .” (Ephesians 4:31)

Breakfast is ready: a big glass of milk, eggs, bacon, buttered toast, and jelly. After a few bites of deliciousness, you take a big sip of milk and gag. You spit out the spoiled milk, but the bitter taste lingered.

People who quickly spin into a frenzy when they observe or experience the unfair treatment of others, including being taken advantage of, must take precautions lest the spirit of resentment creeps its way into their hearts. Inward displeasure against others sometimes begins only as a slight irritation, seeping in slowly. But if ill feelings toward others are left unattended, they soon drift into resentment, then bitterness that can lead to full-blown anger. Inward, unpleasant, built-up emotions often release through the mouth with unpleasant speech and actions not befitting a Christian. Resentment or bitterness may not leave “a nasty taste” in only their hosts; others exposed to the intruders are often affected and influenced by their residue.

No matter how one champions the rights of others, no matter how noble the deed—if the tiniest trace of resentment exists, we are as guilty as the offender. An unmerciful attitude toward the failings of others indicates we have set a standard by which others are measured and judged. God’s Word is the only standard by which we are to conduct ourselves, and God alone is Judge of who falls short of His standard. Our duty as Christians is to be kind, compassionate, and forgiving, just as God forgave us our sins for Christ’s sake (v. 32). Not even the tiniest bit of resentment or bitterness should have a place in the lives of believers.

A Man Called Snake

“Judge not that ye be not judged.” (Matthew 7:1)

It was a rare shopping get-a-way without children. Once they took care of the home fronts, the two friends were on their way. Having left a little later than planned, the trip lasted longer than expected. On the way home, they had a flat tire in the middle of nowhere. There were no streetlights and no vehicles in sight. Two women alone on a now dark, deserted road, with only basic knowledge of how to change a tire, began tackling the problem at hand.

The families at home would be concerned, but there was no way to contact them; there were no portable phones then, and still a thirty-minute drive ahead of them. Then, a vehicle drove up slowly, and the man asked if he could help. Although taught to be cautious regarding strangers, the man seemed okay, and being on the desperate side, they accepted his help. When he stepped out of his car, dressed in black, with noticeable tattoos, and introduced himself as Snake, there were a few moments of uneasiness. But that feeling quickly dissipated. He was a kind and courteous gentleman who came to the rescue of two women in distress. In almost no time, he changed the tire. They repeatedly thanked him, and with a “God bless you,” parted ways, and the friends continued their journey home.

Sadly, the women initially judged their “rescuer” by appearances. Would they have felt more at ease had Snake fit a different profile? Possibly. But it would not have affected his reaction; he reacted to a need according to his character and was a blessing. The flat tire was a teaching moment. A road-sign message reads: Don’t judge a person just because their sin is different from yours. This message applies to outward appearances as well. Thank you, Snake.

When Faith Says, "Yes" but Fear Says, "No"

“Then I said unto you, ‘Dread not, neither be afraid of them. The Lord your God which goeth before you, He shall fight for you . . .’” (Deuteronomy 1:29–30a)

Only Caleb and Joshua, of the twelve men sent to spy out the land of Canaan, could enter the Promised Land. Why? Because their faith said, “Yes.” They believed God would do what seemed impossible. The other ten men were afraid, and their doubt in God’s protection capability spread like a disease. They and all adults who believed them missed entering the land of promise. Why? Because their fear said, “No.” They failed to trust God for deliverance from the giants and the strength of the people in the land (Numbers 13–14).

When a car accident critically injured our five-year-old grandson, the test of faith began. The physicians prepared us, and fear shouted, “He’s going to die.” But in the stillness of a moment, God whispered, “Timothy is going to be better than before.” Dare we believe God when the doctors said he would live as a “vegetable” if he survived surgery? We chose to trust in God—he survived the surgery. Difficult days of recovery followed; many were long, challenging, and tiring. The waiting shook our faith to the core, but there was no doubt about what God said, and God would not lie. We held fast, believing God for a miracle, though what we saw and heard screamed a different message.

During those forty days of hospitalization, we witnessed miracle after miracle by a gracious God taking care of His little child and His grown children. Though God didn’t cause the accident, He used the event to test and strengthen our faith and walk with Him. We learned to wait on God and praise Him amid the storm; our patience was put to the test and stretched. Not one moment was wasted (Romans 8:28).

News of the accident was twenty-seven years ago but as vivid today as though it were only yesterday. God kept His word. Our Timothy is better than before—God’s better. Praise God: the physicians were wrong about his diagnosis. He is not a “vegetable” but a young man who knows, loves, and serves the One who delivered him from the hand of death. Though he faces challenges every day, the love of God oozes from him and splashes onto everyone in his path. When fear and faith speak to you, choose the God we serve who goes before us and fights for us. Great is His faithfulness. Timothy is living proof.

  

Which Are You?

 “Let no corrupt communication proceed out of your mouth, but that which is good to the use of edifying, that it may minister grace unto the hearers.” (Ephesians 4:29)

Some churches all over our great nation still hold services under trying conditions: in parked cars in the church parking lot, sitting six feet apart in marked pews, and over social media. Even with these and other precautions, many at-risk people are still hesitant to attend. One concerned at-risk adult was hesitant about attending services. She mentioned a thought to a relative who contacted their pastor, asking if the idea was feasible for their church. The pastor took immediate action and personally reserved a private entrance to a reserved area with distance seating so those who felt at risk would feel safe. All members received the message, and that Sunday, many people sat in that section who otherwise would have stayed home.

Scenario:  Two visitors attended the same Sunday worship service. One visitor saw the senior adults in one corner of the auditorium and later told a friend how disrespectful it was to isolate them. They both agreed such actions could deter people from attending that church; it did for them. The second visitor was impressed that the church had a reserved section for at-risk attendees and later told a friend about it. They were both looking for a new church family and decided to return the following week.

If you were one of the two church visitors that morning, which are you? We don’t always know the facts behind what we see, form wrong conclusions, and our judgments cause others to falter. The word “corrupt” in verse 29 means “contaminating, bad, offensive.” Your comments, attitude, and actions are influential. Do they draw people to Jesus or drive them away?

Sunny with a Chance of Rain

 “But the God of all grace, who hath called us unto His eternal glory by Christ Jesus after that ye have suffered a while, make you perfect, stablish, strengthen, settle you. To Him be glory and dominion for ever and ever.” (1 Peter 5:10–11)

Soaking up the sunshine on a clear, beautiful day while we walk can be invigorating. But when working on a hot and sunny day, cloud cover is a welcomed sight. After a long dry season, we pray for refreshing rain, but after a long rainy spell, one longs for the sun to shine again.

Our lives are affected by the intensity of the sun and rain, literally and figuratively. When the sun shines, life seems at its best until it gives off scorching heat. Rainfall is refreshing, washing away all the “dust” that settles on us until there is a downpour with no end in sight. But just as a fruitful garden requires sun and rain for growth, the same is true for productive lives. And God wants His children to live productively, producing fruit.

Rain falls (trials come our way), and sometimes, we don’t understand why. Job endured insurmountable pain and loss, unaware that God proved to Satan His servant would remain faithful. (Job 1:7–12). Paul wrote to the Corinthians that troubles so burdened his team and him that they “despaired even of life” (2 Corinthians 1:8). God allowed Paul to have a “thorn in the flesh” that he prayed God would remove, but God did not (2 Corinthians 12:7–10). Yet, in these instances, Job, Paul, and his coworkers trusted God even though there was no sunshine in sight. They believed in, trusted God.

The hardships that try our faith are sometimes for reasons unknown; they test our faith, increase patience (James 1:3,4, 12), chasten (Isaiah 48:10), purify our faith (1 Peter 1:6–9), and glorify God (1 Peter 4:12–16). But at God’s bidding, the sun peeks out and scatters the darkness. Through the rain and sunshine, God is making our lives complete, setting us firmly, giving us strength to bear what we must, forming a firm foundation that life’s fears, heat, floods, or winds cannot shake or move. God, who began this work in us, will bring the work to completion.

Altering the Guide

“He that rejecteth Me, and receiveth not my words, hath One that judgeth him: the Word that I have spoken, the same shall judge him in the last day.” (John 12:48)

As a seamstress, I’ve resized many patterns in my day, but altering the guide sheet instructions included with the pattern is an invitation for an undesirable outcome. Taking shortcuts or neglecting the instructions on assembling purchases can also cause frustrating results.

Far more important than pattern or assembly instructions is God’s guidebook for our lives. When we tamper with God’s Word, disaster awaits. The condition of our world today is proof. What proof? It began with God’s perfect creation of the garden of Eden and the first man and woman. There was no printed guidebook, but God communed with Adam and Eve, giving clear instructions on living in the paradise He created. There is no record of how long they lived in total bliss, but they yielded to the serpent’s temptation one day. The couple embraced his twisted—altered—version of God’s truth and ate the forbidden fruit. From that moment, humanity and Earth itself have been in decline and dying.

Many lawmakers and courts have managed to twist God’s Word, designed and given to protect and guide us, under the guise of “people’s rights.” But all too often, these servants of justice who swear before God with their hand on The Holy Bible do not do what is just for the people they vow to serve. Some fail out of error; others disregard their vow because they focus on their way, not God’s law or what is best for the people. Although humanity chooses to defy God’s instructions, the truth of His Word stays unchanged.

Our nation is suffering. We see law-abiding citizens harassed and sometimes punished while many lawbreakers and faulty lawmakers get a pass. Social and moral decline is notable since “the law” banned prayer from public schools and the slaughter of unborn babies. We took a moral nose-dive with the consideration of destroying infants who survive failed abortions. God’s command on murder is plain (Exodus 20:13). His Word cannot be altered or tweaked; we either obey it or break it. When the law of the land is contrary to God’s law, the Word of God always trumps man’s law—always. Depravity is in full bloom in our society; how we must grieve God’s heart.

God holds the guilty accountable for every sin committed, from the minor lie to the most heinous act imaginable. Yet, His mercy offers hope for His prized creation: “ Let the wicked forsake his way, and the unrighteous man his thoughts: and let him return unto the Lord, and He will have mercy upon Him; and to our God, for He will abundantly pardon” (Isaiah 55:7). God loves unconditionally and wants to forgive, cleanse, heal, and restore, but the sinner must first confess the wrongdoing, turn from the sin, and turn to Him (1 John 1:9). Only then is freedom for a fresh start found.

God’s guide for our right living, penned thousands of years ago, is the same for us today—He will never alter it. To discard His Word’s truth is to reject God, who judges us. He is the same God of yesterday, today, and the same God who will always be.

Someone Heard

“Trust in Him at all times ye people, pour out your heart before Him: God is a refuge for us.” (Psalm 62:8)

Frozen in fear, she tried screaming, but the only sound that escaped her mouth seemed so faint that she thought, No one can hear me. Suddenly she felt an assuring hand on her arm and listened to the voice of her husband asking, “Are you okay?” He heard her cry in the dark of night; she was not alone. That “she” was me and my frightening dream in the “wee” hours of the morning, one that I’m grateful I didn’t recall the reason for fear once I woke.

I knew God always heard me in my dream, yet I was comforted by the fact someone else heard my stifled cry for help, a reminder to be sensitive to other’s silent cries. We may not hear their voice or see tears, but their eyes and body language reveal they could use an assuring voice asking, “Are you okay?” We need to tell or remind them that God sees, hears, and cares—He wants to minister to others in need through us.

 Although physical maladies and medications can contribute to restless nights, retiring for the night carrying the busyness, troubles of the day, or the cares of this world often lead to unrestful nights or dreams (Ecclesiastes 5:3). But we can imitate the psalmist, David. Whether he was at ease, anxious, overwhelmed, or weary, he trusted God. Pouring his heart out to the One who was always a shelter and strong tower for him, he rested in the covering of His wings (61: 2–4).

God wants you to lean on Him. Talk to Him—He knows everything about you, and nothing surprises Him. If you feel the need to tattle on someone, tattle to God. He is not disappointed that you trust Him with your cares and burdens. God hears in the light of day and dark of night and is always nearby. We are never alone. God is trustworthy. Trust in Him always. 

Telling Signs

“Watch therefore: for ye know not what hour your Lord doth come.” (Matthew 24:42)

Hummingbirds are little beauties, so delicate yet fierce when feeding. Seldom are there more than two at a feeder because they usually fight each other off. They don’t play well at sharing the sweet nectar until migration time; it isn’t unusual to have several birds perched on each feeder while swarms of them are waiting a turn. What is it that prompts them to swarm? Their God-given barometer warns them that cooler weather is soon approaching, so they prepare themselves for their long trek South.

The twelve disciples came to Jesus privately and asked about signs of the end times (Matthew 24:3). Jesus began His reply with a warning to guard against deceivers claiming to be Christ and deceive many. He told them of the events that would precede His second coming, including wars and rumors of wars, nations rising against nations, famines, pestilences (i.e., Covid-19), earthquakes, which were only the beginning of sorrows (vs. 4–8). Do these events sound an alarm to pay attention to the signs we witness today?

Jesus had already informed His disciples of His death, burial, and resurrection. In this conversation, He instructed them of His return one day, that only the Father knew when that day would be (vs. 36, 42), and that we should “be ready” (v. 44). How do we ready ourselves for His return? First, understand that some of us will not be here when that day arrives; today may be the appointed day to draw our last breath—so it is crucial to be prepared right now, this moment. How do we prepare ourselves to see Jesus? “That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus and shalt believe in thine heart that God raised Him from the dead, thou shalt be saved” (Romans 10:9). Receiving the gift of Jesus will assure you of an eternal heavenly home.

Swarming hummingbirds know what to do to survive their migration journey. You know how to prepare for your journey into eternity. The signs of Jesus’ imminent return are clear, and we have no guarantee of another moment on this earth. Don’t delay doing what you know must be done to live forever with God, your Creator.

For the Work of the Lord's Service

“And the Lord spake unto Moses, saying, ‘Speak unto the children of Israel, that they bring Me an offering: of every man that giveth it willingly with his heart ye shall take My offering.’” (Exodus 25:1–2)

God instructed Moses to tell the Israelites to bring offerings, not as tribute, but freewill offerings as loyal subjects to their King—Him, the God they vowed to follow and serve. Whether to bring an offering was a personal choice, but the contribution itself was not. God was specific in what He wanted. These offerings fit for a king were for a moveable tabernacle, its contents, and the priests’ attire. Even though He was present, God wanted a place where His presence might dwell among them (vs. 3–8). Where would people who lived as slaves for four hundred years come by these costly gifts? From the spoils of the Egyptians as they left Egypt (12:31–36). Every morning God’s people brought their offerings to Moses for the work of the Lord’s service until the artisans informed Moses, they had much more than was needed to complete the assignment. Moses had to instruct the people to stop bringing offerings! Fancy that!

The apostle Paul implores the Corinthian Christians to collect an offering for the poor and persecuted Christians in Jerusalem, using the believers of Macedonia as examples of generous givers (2 Corinthians 8:1–5). Though poor and persecuted themselves, the Macedonians needed no urging but joyfully stepped forward and liberally gave of everything they could to help fellow Christ-followers in need. God is not impressed with the amount of money people give but with the motive behind it.

Our tithes and offerings are for the work of the Lord’s service. God doesn’t need our money because He owns everything, including our finances. But our giving honors Him, blesses others, and helps us as well (2 Corinthians 9:6b; Luke 6:38; Malachi 3:10). If we supported our local places of worship and other organizations that help people, there would never be a lack when needs arise. But sadly, not everyone contributes. Does God require too much: one dollar for every ten? What if God calculated your monthly income based on your “ten percent” given? Are you doing your part? If you plant a few seeds, you reap a small crop, but when you plant generously, you reap bountifully. God loves a cheerful giver, one who gives from the heart (2 Corinthians 9:6–7). 

My Stuff and Your Stuff

“And the Lord answered, ‘Behold, he hath hid himself among the stuff.’” (1 Samuel 10:22)

When the time came for Samuel to step down, the Israelites didn’t want another prophet leading them but demanded a king like the surrounding nations. With this demand, they rejected God, who was their king speaking through Samuel. God was displeased but gave them what they wanted. Saul had kingly qualities: tall, striking appearance, courageous, and known for his generosity. But outward appearances can be deceiving; his “inward man” would not lean on and trust God with his strengths or weaknesses that would make him usable for God’s purposes. Saul was hesitant to step forward when it was time for Samuel to present him as Israel’s first king officially; he hid “among the stuff.” The word “stuff” in verse twenty-two means baggage. Saul hid in the baggage, but the baggage could not hide him.

The word “stuff” has always intrigued me. When the Lord dropped this word in my thoughts, I was anxious to learn what He wanted to teach me: We all have stuff with which to deal; sometimes, we hide in it. Your “stuff “is different from mine, but we all have it. No? People pay to store excess stuff in storage facilities or tuck it away in “she-sheds” or workshops. Glance in your closets and those “catch-all” drawers; see all the stuff? These places store things used regularly, seasonally, hardly ever, or not at all. Sometimes we put those things away, not to see or deal with them. Stuff—we all have stuff.

Though our outward appearance can fool others, the inward person cannot deceive God. With all your stuff and my stuff stored in strategic places, how often do we hide in our “baggage” to escape facing realities that need addressing? Reasons for hiding “among the stuff” differ, but we must confront them, allowing God access to expose hiding places. As we surrender to God, we experience freedom from the baggage that has us stalemated. Saul could have been a great king had he only allowed God to be King and Ruler of his heart.

God has a plan for your life and mine. He desires sincere hearts bent and surrendered to His will. He knows what and where your stuff is, whether in open or hidden places. God is waiting for an invitation to help you deal with the baggage that weighs you down. Instead of hiding in that stuff of yours, find shelter in God as the psalmist did: “Thou art my hiding place; Thou shalt preserve me from trouble; Thou shalt compass me about with songs of deliverance” (Psalm 32:7). Crawl out from under the baggage and surrender all to God.

Lovebugs and People

 “But I say unto you, that every idle word that men shall speak, they shall give account thereof in the day of judgment.” (Matthew 12:36)

God didn’t create lovebugs (or other pesky insects) as pests; they became bothersome after the fall of humanity. Is there anything good about lovebugs since then? They don’t bite or sting; they fly at night and feed on dead vegetation, redistributing nutrients back into the ground. Adult lovebugs live only a few days.

People can be annoying like lovebugs, at every turn and sometimes in your face. Like it or not, I’m annoying at times, even aggravate myself. And you can be annoying. God didn’t design this human trait; our nature did that. We may have learned it as a child; it may have developed from being rejected or hurt; it may be a tool to garner attention or purposefully irritate someone. But sometimes, annoying others is a silent cry for attention. Can any good come from annoyance? When God allows the same bothersome people to cross your path, it’s for a purpose: He wants you to pray for them. What if He chose you as the friend desperately needed, someone to listen and show patience and kindness? God chose you to point them to Him. But what if God used those irritating people to help you realize you have been annoying? An annoying personality will not draw others to God’s love and saving grace. 

We are accountable to God for our conduct—purposefully irritating others, interjecting a good “jab,” excusing it with, “I was just kidding,” or taking part in conversations with intentions to annoy, hurt, or falsely accuse is unacceptable. One day, unless forgiven by God, we will answer to our Maker for every meaningless, hurtful, and harmful word spoken, regardless of our reasons.

Woman of Excellence

 “Who can find a virtuous woman? For her price is far above rubies.” (Proverbs 31:10)

What a woman! Ladies, would any of us measure up to this example of great worth laid out in Proverbs 31:10–31? Whether single or married, the challenge is attainable by the grace of God and a willing and submissive heart.

The extraordinary woman described is virtuous: strong in character, wisdom, skills, and great compassion. Her worth is invaluable. Her husband trusts her; she is a crown to him (Proverbs 12:4). He has confidence that she will do her part in attending to the needs of their family. She will do him good all the days of her life: “For better or worse, in sickness and in health” till death parts them.

The virtuous woman is further defined in verses thirteen through twenty-seven, revealing what comprises her busy and productive life. She doesn’t waste time or resources (v. 27), is an excellent wife and mother, and energetic, hard worker who serves her husband well. Even if he dies before her, she will honor his family, name, and business affairs (vs. 11–15). She is industrious: a realtor and farmer (v. 16), a manufacturer (v. 18), a weaver, seamstress, upholsterer; generous in spirit and charitable to the poor. Her husband is well-known, and she is known (vs. 19–22, 24); she trades and exports her goods (v. 24). This exemplary woman speaks with wisdom and kindness (v. 26). She is a wise home manager, ensuring her household behaves appropriately, fulfilling their duty toward God, one another, and her (vs. 27). Above all this, her children and husband call her “blessed,” and he praises her (v.28). Her fear of the Lord completes and crowns her character; He leads and governs all she does (v. 30). She reaps the benefit of the care given to others and seeks no applause, for her works praise her (v. 31).

Notice the writer of this proverb doesn’t mention the outward appearance of the virtuous woman. Her attractiveness comes entirely from her character. Her strength and dignity are a result of her reverence for God. True beauty is the "hidden person" of the heart with a gentle and quiet spirit—precious in God's sight (1 Peter 3:3-4). Men, if you want a virtuous wife, one who will love and honor God and you, seek and choose one from among available, godly women like this one portrayed in Proverbs. 

The Never-ending Story

“Therefore, we are always confident, knowing that whilst we are at home in the body, we are absent from the Lord.” (2 Corinthians 5:6)

There is an ending when telling or authoring a story unless there is a cliff-hanger—a plot challenging readers to think of what might be or teasing them to wait for a sequel.

The phrase, Every story has an ending, brought to mind life stories. Each of us has a story as we sojourn this planet we call home. But God created our spirit for glory; He made us heaven-bound. In the presence of our Lord, heaven is the true home for born-again believers. That’s why Paul wrote he was willing to be absent from his earthly body to be present with the Lord (v. 8). He had confidence an eternal heavenly home awaited him and was ready when God would call him to his true home.

As we journey this place in our earthly bodies, our Maker or we edit our story daily, both believers in Christ and those who reject Him. Because God created us all for glory, He wants all people to repent (2 Peter 3:9). The choice to say Yes to God’s offer of salvation through the blood sacrifice of Jesus is ours to make, but we must decide before we draw the last breath in this perishable body.

Every person has a never-ending story, an everlasting one. The moment eyes close in death, the existence of the flesh-body ends, but the soul doesn’t die. When God pens the final word, and the book of your earthly story ends, you open your eyes in one of two places: in heaven with God, His angels, and believers who accepted His Son as Savior and Lord, or hell with Satan and his followers. The opportunity to edit your life expires with your final breath. Where will your fully edited story continue?

Scattered Letters

“Trust in Him at all times; ye people, pour out your heart before Him: God is a refuge for us.” (Psalm 62:8)

Sometimes when we pray, all we can say is, “God,” and we didn’t hear Him reply, “I know.”

Can you visualize tossing hands full of magnetized letters onto a magnetic board? The haphazard landing form no words, no message. When a heart is so burdened, broken, and confused, prayers to God may seem vague, scattered, and scrambled—if you can voice them at all. But you humbled yourself before God and poured out your heart because that’s what He wants you to do, trust Him. Amid the anguish, tears, and wordless prayer, how will He understand your request? Because He is God, your refuge—your place of safety; He knew your heart’s needs before you were aware of them.

Whether your pleadings before God make sense to you, rest in Him. The Holy Spirit takes every scattered letter and scrambled word—every word uttered—every unvoiced cry of your heart into God’s presence. Trust Him, child of God; your Father understands and is working on your behalf.

Follower vs. Follower

Follower vs. Follower

“From that time many of His disciples went back and walked no more with Him.” (John 6:66)

Following Christ, walking with Him, and loving God with all your heart does not grant you the privilege of being part of God’s family. Cornelius was such a good man, feared God, prayed, and gave offerings, yet was lost. He was unaware that he faced eternity separated from the God he loved because no one told him differently. Then God sent Peter, who shared the good news of Jesus’ death, burial, and resurrection. Cornelius and his family trusted Jesus as Savior and Lord, and God welcomed them into His family (Acts 10:1–48).

The many disciples who followed Jesus and tuned back were merely listeners following a teacher out of curiosity. But when The Teacher revealed their selfish motives, they were unwilling to accept He was the Messiah and chose to no longer walk with Him. One becomes a true Christ-following-believer by confession of their sins, asking God for forgiveness and cleansing by the blood of Jesus, and inviting Jesus to be Lord of their life. Only a personal relationship with Jesus Christ ushers you into the family of God.

Impaired Vision

“Therefore, I will look unto the Lord; I will wait for the God of my salvation: my God will hear me.” (Micah 7:7)

The prophet Micah grieved over the wickedness of the times in which he lived. Not only was there a disregard for God, but friends and families dishonored one another. So he looked to and sought comfort and salvation in the Lord whom he trusted. He had unswerving confidence God would hear and help him.

We serve the same God who is moved with compassion seeing His children struggle through life. When life has gone awry, unless we look to the Lord like Micah, it’s easy to fixate on an overwhelming detail; one that makes the situation in its entirety unclear. There’s an expression for such a condition: “You can’t see the forest for the trees;”—you are unable to clearly understand what’s happening because you’re too involved with it. When that happens, vision is compromised. You may have developed tunnel vision, focusing on that aspect of the situation so intently that you miss the whole picture.

 

When you can’t see the forest for the trees, look up. God is the Light above, in and through your darkness. If you trust Him, He will carry you through all of life’s challenges into His glorious light. Surrender to the One who saves daily. He is Almighty God who hears and saves when you look unto Him. He is always nearby. 

The Backstory

“But I would ye should understand, brethren, that the things which happened unto me have fallen out rather unto the furtherance of the gospel.” (Philippians 1:12)

Writers use backstory to reveal pertinent information about the characters portrayed in their stories. These backstories reveal how the people became who they are and why they act and think the way they do. The backstory is sometimes held for later in the narrative for effectiveness.

Paul understood God’s sovereignty over his life’s story; even his unfair arrest would help spread the good news that Jesus saves. The events of your life create your backstory, and narrative is added daily to your story even if it isn’t posted in a journal, book, or on social media. Your backstory tells how you became who you are and why you act and think the way you do. Someone needs to know your story; they need to hear of your struggles. When God’s Spirit nudges you to share with someone an unpleasant event from your past—something you’re not proud of, or unfair, or painful; something that may have happened just yesterday—you may be their “ray of hope.” That careworn person needs to hear the good news of how you overcame life's setbacks by God’s power, grace, and love, and the same help is available for them.

Some people think they aren’t worthy of asking God for anything, that He could never forgive or love them. But you are living proof that God can break chains of bondage. They need to hear the good news that Jesus saves everyone who calls on and receives Him as Savior and Lord. God knows when your backstory will be most effective; as He speaks to your heart, obediently follow His leading and share your story with others. 

 

The Wire Face-Off

“Casting all your care upon Him; for He careth for you.” (1 Peter 5:7)

Modern technology is great for some people but frustrating for “low tech” folks like me when technical issues arise. But how can there be so many wires to contend with when living in a wireless age? Other than making sure all plugs are secure, I have no clue what to look for or how to fix it if I find it. But I try.

Today, you may face a problem; a pile of  “life-wires” where something is not connected correctly. The task at hand seems overwhelming, and you’re unsure where to begin or what to do if you find the problem, but you’re doing your best. God doesn’t want you struggling in your walk with Him, nor does He expect you to fix the problem.

The Bible tells us to cast every care on Him because He cares for us. It makes no difference the problem’s size—go to Him; humble yourself before Him. Ask God to search your heart for any unconfessed sin, repent and receive forgiveness. God wants to hear from you and help you because He loves you. He wants you securely connected to Him, living in the fullness of His power made available to His children. 

You Can Know

“The Lord hath appeared of old unto me saying, Yea I have loved thee with an everlasting love: therefore with lovingkindness have I drawn thee.” (Jeremiah 31:3)

Sometimes I’m asked, “What do you know?” Instinctively, I answer, “Jesus loves me this I know, for the Bible tells me so.” This phrase is the first line of lyrics in a children’s song I learned as a child. I believed the truth of that song as a child and still do to this day. Jesus loves me because the Bible says He does.

Has anyone ever asked you, “Just who do you think you are?” Was that person asking sarcastically or even expecting an answer? Did you have a ready answer? Before the foundation of the world, God knew who would say yes to His gift of grace—Jesus, His Son. Those who believe in Him and have received Him as Savior and Lord have promises from God’s Word. In addition to being God's child, chapters one and two of Ephesians tell us that we are: blessed (v. 3), chosen (v. 4), holy (v. 4), accepted (v. 6), redeemed (v. 7), forgiven (v. 7), sealed with the Holy Spirit (v. 13; 4:30), loved (2:2), saved (2:8), God’s workmanship (2:10), fellow citizen with the saints of God (2:19), heirs of God, joint-heirs with Christ (Romans 8:16–17).

You can know who you are in Christ. How? The Bible tells you so! All the promises of God in Jesus Christ are yes and amen—they are true (2 Corinthians 1:20). How would you define yourself if someone asked you, “Just who do you think you are?”

Lest We Forget

“. . . He took bread, and gave thanks, and brake it, and gave unto them saying, ‘This is My body which is given for you: this do in remembrance of Me.’ Likewise also the cup. . .” (Luke 22:19–20)

How could any American forget that tragic day labeled 9/11? Horror, terror, tragedy, grief, and suffering mark that day in history. The day reminds us of thousands of lives lost; thousands of families that will never be the same; thousands of responders and people in the vicinity of the towers suffer health issues—many of whom have since perished. That day, and many days after, was marked by millions of believers and non-believers calling upon God to intervene. Though terror and unrest seemly reigned a short while, God stepped in, displayed His greatness, and overshadowed the fear with His presence.

We must never forget 9/11 and the countless heroes, many who remain unnamed, many who gave their lives in efforts to save others. Though we should not underestimate the power of our enemies, we must never forget that Almighty God is more powerful than any enemy we will ever face. That day stamped history. We honor and remember the heroes, lives lost, and sacrifices made with testimonials, a memorial erected, and the reading of names of the known men and women who perished that day. Never forget how our nation changed because of that dreadful day. Never forget that God Almighty is mightier than any foe. The incident of 9/11 is a calendared day, a yearly reminder to remember, lest we forget.

Another calendar date marks an incident that occurred over two thousand years ago. This event changed the course of history for the entire world. Sadly, many people recall only once a year that God’s Son hung on a cross and died. Jesus died bearing the sins of all people who have lived and for all who will ever walk this earth. Easter Sunday—Resurrection Day—is celebrated among Christians because Jesus rose from the grave on the third day, conquering death. Because of His resurrection, we have access to the Father and eternal life with Him.

The evening before His death, Jesus instituted the ordinance of the Lord’s Supper and instructed the disciples (and us) to “do this in remembrance of Me.” Partaking in the Lord’s Supper reminds believers of His broken body and shed blood. We must remember His sacrifice made on our behalf and thank God for the gift of His Son. Jesus, the perfect, spotless Lamb of God, took our sins upon Himself on the cross so we could be set free. He paid the ultimate price for our freedom—our eternal salvation. The empty grave is a reminder, lest we forget.

Battle Buddies

 “And He saith unto them, ‘My soul is exceeding sorrowful unto death: tarry ye here and watch.”  (Mark 14:34)

A military officer was reminiscing his father’s war story of the time his close comrades, his dad referred to as his “battle buddies,” were killed in the line of duty. He alone survived the incident. That story stirred in me the significance of a battle buddy.

With His death looming before Him, Jesus sought His Father. Taking His disciples with Him, they arrived at the place called Gethsemane. He instructed some of them to stay but took Peter, James, and John and went a little further on to pray. Why were these three, often referred to as the “inner circle” of the disciples, singled out? Scripture doesn’t reveal the answer, but Peter boasted he would die for Jesus; James and John, with their mother speaking for them, asked Jesus if they could sit at His right hand and left hand in His kingdom (Matthew 20:20–21). Jesus’ action may have been a training session for them to learn that submission sometimes identifies greatness, not superiority.

Jesus, in agonizing grief, asked the three to stay and watch as He went a little further to entreat His Father. What were they to watch? His agony—not fearing death, but knowing He faced a gruesome crucifixion, bearing every sin from the beginning to the end of time for our redemption. That being horrible enough, Jesus knew our sins cast on Him would temporarily separate Him from His Father for the first time in His human existence. So, He asked His Father if there was any other way.

Jesus knew Peter, James, and John would soon miserably fail in their aspirations for “greatness.” His boastful friends failed their mission to watch and pray with Him—twice, Jesus found them asleep. Had they prayed instead of slept, they would have been better prepared to suffer with Him. Yet, Jesus didn’t leave them wallowing in their failures. After His resurrection, in lovingkindness, Jesus affirmed their forgiveness so they could go forward boldly in the work the Father called them to achieve.

Jesus didn’t need a battle buddy but asked three disciples to watch and pray with Him. God is always with us, and though we lean and depend on Him in prayer, it’s reassuring and encouraging when others pray with us and for us. Sometimes, we need a “battle buddy.” Who knows? Your battle buddy may be in training to experience God at work. 

Power Outages

“And Jesus came and spake unto them, saying, ‘All power is given unto Me in heaven and earth.’” (Matthew 28:18)

“Do you have power yet?” was a frequent question asked in the aftermath of a category four hurricane. Power outages often happen, and when they do, life changes—especially without the luxury of a generator. Whatever the circumstance, we “make do” and do our best to help others in need by offering physical labor, shelter, food, water, and clothing. Once a storm has passed through, cleanup of the wreckage and the process of restoration begins. Though it may appear hopeless, crews work night and day diligently to restore power in storm-ridden areas. By the grace of God, rebuilding begins with the aid of insurance and people who care.

There is another type of power outage, not from stormy weather conditions but a life storm. It swept through your life, leaving you feeling damaged; you see nothing but wreckage in every direction. Though your situation seems hopeless, there is good news! If you belong to God, His power never turns off, no matter the magnitude of the storm! The Holy Spirit dwelling within you reminds you of God’s presence. He wants you to turn to Him. The infilling power of His presence the moment you invited Him into your life is the same power available during and in the aftermath of any life tempest. You are never powerless. Humble yourself before God and pour your heart out to Him. He cares and wants you restored, walking in wholeness and victory.

“We got power!” Beautiful words to hear from people who weather any storm and its repercussions, standing spiritually strong because they leaned and depended on our faithful God who gave “all power in heaven and earth” to His Son Jesus, who lives in us. His power is our power. Praise Him!

A Quiet and Peaceable Life

“I exhort therefore, that, first of all, supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks, be made for all men; For kings, and do all that are in authority; that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and honesty.” (1 Timothy 2:1–2)

The apostle Paul penned these words under the leadership of the Holy Spirit to Timothy, who he left to tend the church at Ephesus while he went on to Macedonia. Paul knew the struggles Timothy would face with false teachers wanting to draw believers away from the truth of God’s Word and with believers whose faith would falter, referring to their faith as shipwrecked. He even dropped the names of two openly disciplined men to teach them not to speak evil of God (1:18–21). Paul had confidence in Timothy’s calling and encouraged him on these matters that he might fight well in the Lord’s battles.

Paul urges Timothy “first of all” to be diligent in the different aspects of his prayer life: Supplication is the earnest, humble plea for such things as protection, shelter, or help; prayer is communing with God, as when Jesus often prayed with His Father. Intercession is a privilege God grants as we come before Him to plead on behalf of others. Jesus, our Advocate, is the great Intercessor between God and man, interceding on our behalf. Giving thanks is praise offered to God for His mercy, goodness, and salvation.

Though it is essential to pray for all people, supplications, prayers, intercessions, and thanks must be made for those in authority as their character, decisions, and plans significantly affect us. Paul said to do this that we might live quietly, peaceably, in godliness and honesty. When we faithfully fulfill our duties toward God and man, we please and honor our Father—“For this is “good and acceptable in the sight of God our Savior” (v. 3).

All Lives Matter

“And God said, ‘Let Us make man in Our image, after Our likeness . . .’” (Genesis 1:26a)

If you watch or listen to newscasts, you are familiar with different people groups, their signs, slogans, and chants saying which lives matter. News flash for those who don’t know or need reminding: All lives matter to God.

The fact that God the Father, God the Son, and God the Holy Spirit, declared They would create humanity in Their image and likeness should be enough proof that all lives matter. Take note that They mentioned no color, label, race, location, position, status, or opinion to the making of “man.” All lives matter. From the unborn at conception to people who live over one hundred years, every life matters to God, and all lives should matter to us.

God loves all people with unconditional, eternal love, love our finite minds cannot understand. All lives matter to God, and He wants all people to accept Jesus, His only Son sent to die and pay the price for our sins, as Lord and Savior of their lives (1 Timothy 2:4). Some people think they are beyond God’s reach; their sins are unforgivable; God could not love them. But His invitation for salvation is for the vilest, murderous, despicable, hateful, hypocritical, self-righteous, and God-fearers—it matters not who, how ungodly, or righteous a person is, all humanity needs saving, and the Savior’s name is Jesus. If we confess our sins and ask for forgiveness, God will forgive us (1 John 1:9).

We are to respect God’s creation. A challenge? Yes. But a challenge we must undertake as God’s children. He commands us to love one another as He loves us. All lives do matter.

The Reward

“But without faith it is impossible to please Him: for he that cometh to God must believe that He is, and that He is a rewarder of them that diligently seek Him.” (Hebrews 11:6)

Faith. God is invisible and sometimes silent. Yet, when we come before Him in prayer or worship, it is impossible to please Him unless we are confident that He exists and is faithful to His promises. The prophet Jeremiah said if we seek God with all our heart, we’ll find Him (Jeremiah 29:13). God is nearby, not in hiding, and wants people to find Him. He longs to save them from their sins and an eternity in hell. He wants our trust and fellowship.

As we consider all that God has done for us, how can we not stand in awe of Him who is worthy of the highest praise, reverence, and devotion? What happens when one believes that He is—has proven Himself to be—and seeks Him with all their heart? The writer of Hebrews says that God rewards that believer. Though we are not to seek God for compensation, when we approach our Maker in faith—in confidence that He is, He is our reward—loving and forgiving us, hearing and answering our prayers, supplying all our needs. Our Father is ever-present and blesses those who diligently seek Him.

Mirror, Mirror on the Wall

O send out Thy light and Thy truth; let them lead me . . .” (Psalm 43:3a)

Mirrors can distort your reflections depending on the available light and quality of the glass. So, a mirror reflection is not always an accurate image; it doesn’t reveal who you are. Just as a mirror can be deceptive, you can easily deceive yourself and others into believing you are someone you’re not. Unless you allow God’s Word to shed light on your imperfections and you receive and respond to what it reveals, you will walk in deceit and disobedience.

God is the true Light (John 1:1–9). The true Light knows the real you. He wants you to see areas in your life where deception has led you to believe something that isn’t true; He wants you to take note of things that need changing in your life, act, and live out the truth. God wants you to walk victoriously, but sometimes, people choose a more comfortable route, believing a mirror’s distorted view, one that can’t define who you are. Only God and His Word can do that. As God’s Light shines on you, receive and act upon the truth He reveals. Only then can you reflect Him to others.

Wall of Fame

“Now all these things happened unto them for ensamples, and they are written for our admonition . . .” (1 Corinthians 10:11)

There are different Halls of Fame—classes or categories of people who excelled in an activity or field. We have what I call Wall of Fam in our home—it displays a collection of family photos. Each picture is a reminder of God’s grace and goodness; each represents a story.

The Bible has its Hall of Fame in the Book of Hebrews, a collection of the heroes of faith. This list of heroes begins with Abel, the second-born son of Adam and Eve, Enoch, the Patriarchs, Moses, Joshua, Rahab, and “many other heroes” of faith. Some of those “other heroes” are named (v. 32), but many are not, marking Bible history with their lives. Though they had flaws and experienced failures, God recognized men and women for how they lived out their faith, listing them as examples. Paul wrote to Corinthian believers, reminding them that the Israelites wandered in the wilderness for forty years because of disobedience and lack of faith in God. They are examples; we are to learn from their mistakes.

Jesus often taught using parables, telling stories. You and I have stories to tell from life experiences that happened for a reason. God carried you through difficulties, temptations, failures, weaknesses, life storms, fears, joys, and triumphs, and wants to use those experiences to make a difference in someone’s life. Someone needs to hear your story. Trust God and obediently share what the Holy Spirit reveals. God wants you to help and comfort others with the same help and comfort He showed you (2 Corinthians 1:3–4). How firm is your faith? Like the Heroes of Faith, will you be viewed on God’s “Wall of Fame?”

Hide and Seek

“Seek ye the Lord while He may be found, call ye upon Him while He is near.” (Isaiah 55:6)

Do you hide from God? Why would someone want to avoid Him? Living contrary to God’s commands would be good reasons if one could. But He always knows where you are and what you’re doing. If God has instructed you to go, do, or say something you are unwilling to accept, avoidance of Him or pretending you didn’t hear will not change the directive. Are you disappointed with God? Upset, even angry because He has not answered your prayer? You begin to wonder if He sees your need, heard your plea, or if He even cares. So, you avoid Him. But according to Psalm 139:5–10, there is not a place we can go to hide from God. He is everywhere.

Do you seek God? He is often the “go-to,” but only after most avenues of help are exhausted when there are pressing issues. God is near and wants you to find Him. He wants you to know He loves you and cares about your every need and concern. People without God have an emptiness inside and often seek to fill the void rather than look for The Life Filler. Those who don’t seek and find God while He can “be found” face an eternity apart from Him. Once one draws the last breath, it’s too late to seek Him.

Jesus commanded believers to teach others about God, salvation through His Son, and the importance of keeping His commandments—to obey everything He taught (Matthew 28:19–20). If we fail in Jesus’ Great Commission, many people will never find God and the saving grace of Jesus. They will suffer forever, separated from God in a place created for Satan and his followers. Believers must come out of hiding, seek God’s face for boldness, and go out in His power to tell others the Good News that Jesus saves.

Snakes and Spiders

“And some believed the things which were spoken, and some believed not.” (Acts 28:24) 

With their ship battered to pieces, Paul and the other occupants swam to the island of Malta, escaping death by sea. The friendly islanders had a fire ready when they reached the shore. As Paul laid more wood on the fire, a poisonous snake bit him on the hand; the islanders thought him a murderer, punished for his wrongdoing (v. 3). After waiting a long while for him to bloat or fall dead, and he didn’t, they considered him a god. Ministry has its challenges. Paul and his team were doing what God called them to do: travel from place to place, telling the world about the kingdom of God. But a storm redirected their course to an island where they healed many sick people needing to hear of the one true God’s love. After arriving in Rome, Paul’s arrest allowed him to share God’s Gospel with the jailors.

God chooses when, where, and how He carries out His purposes. We experienced this through a church-sponsored mission trip to Gallup, New Mexico. Our family set out from Louisiana with chaperones and a youth group in an old, unairconditioned school bus. The purpose of our mission was door-to-door witnessing in the Spanish community in the mornings and hold revival services in the evenings. The people accommodated us in the small, dirt-floored, unairconditioned church building, sleeping bags for beds, and outdoor cold showers.

We went out the first day in small groups sharing the story of Jesus and inviting the locals to the evening service. The task was a challenge in areas where we had to clear spiderwebs to access some homes. But all were real troopers, and the girls were brave as we carried out our mission. After arriving back at home base, one of the girls felt something crawling on her, and doing a little “jig,” flicked the thing off. Within seconds we knew the “thing” had landed on our three-year-old son because of his screaming. Before we reached him, the black widow spider bit him twice on the leg. The spider was “put down.” and bottled. We brought both our boy and the spider to the nearest hospital. 

The on-call doctor delayed aid for our child, screaming in pain arguing with us that the spider was not a black widow because the red marking was not on the spider’s back. He was wrong; the hourglass marking is always on the underside. Then we were informed they had no anti-venom, and none was available from any nearby facilities, so they gave our child only an anti-inflammatory medication that did not help. If this were not bad enough, the community had an outbreak of dysentery. Hospital rooms were full—they put us in a ward, beds filled the room side-by-side, with only curtains separating them.

Our family had already experienced God’s miraculous hand, so we trusted Him but had no idea of His purpose. One thing we knew for sure: He didn’t make the spider bite our child but knew it would happen and use it for something good (Romans 8:28). My husband had to return to our group at the mission, but we agreed each morning, afternoon, and evening to face each other’s direction and pray that God would care for the needs at hand and do what He knew was best. So, we prayed. God met our needs and protected us from dysentery. Several days later, we rejoined the group.

In the meantime, our youth group grew spiritually and closer together as they called on the name of our Mighty God, expecting Him to work mightily. He did, and the teenagers learned the significance of intervening on behalf of someone’s need. God reminded my husband and me of Christ’s grace and sufficiency. The spider’s marks on our grown son’s leg are still visible; they serve as a vivid reminder to him and us that our God can do exceedingly abundantly more than we ask or think (Ephesians 3:20).

Because of Paul’s circumstances, he was able to tell the story of Christ in places that he would not have gone before. Though our mission endeavors were interrupted, God changed lives and drew us closer to Him. Where, how, and when God chooses to work is His prerogative. He sees the circumstances facing you—He knows all the angles; He’s in control. You, too, can experience the grace and sufficiency of our miracle-working God. Each person must decide whether to receive the message that Jesus saves daily and eternally; the first step is to acknowledge your need and invite Him into your life (Romans 10:9–10, 13). Some people believe, and some do not believe regardless of God’s activity.