Believe, Then See

 "Jesus saith unto him, Thomas, because thou hast seen Me, thou hast believed: blessed are they that have not seen, and yet have believed." John 20:29

Do you believe God is who He says He is? Do you trust He will do what He says? Yes? Then why don't you and I always live as we do? Often, we lack trust in those things that we cannot see with physical eyes and reason with human intellect.

Some people say, "Seeing is believing," but God says believe, then see. Thomas had to see the risen Savior for himself to believe He rose from the dead. Jesus didn’t scold him for needing proof but did say that God blesses those who believe without seeing Him. We are the “they” of whom He spoke—the blessed. We can believe God without seeing Him because He reveals Himself through His Son, the Word, nature, and speaks to our hearts by the Holy Spirit. Putting faith alone in what our eyes see can cause doubt, fear, and defeat. Cast them off, placing your hope and trust in our God whom we cannot see but know without a doubt exists and that He is near. Believe, then you will see.

If you want to believe, then see, acknowledge Almighty God is everywhere and knows everything. He, Creator of all, says that there is nothing impossible to those who believe and serve Him. Instead of understanding everything from a human perspective, trust His Word and yield your life to Him. Depend on God's wisdom, perfect plan, and timing for your life when you ask Him to guide your steps. Obediently follow the Holy Spirit’s leading without alterations to suit your desires. He will never lead you astray. Our Father is always with you and for you. In simple, childlike faith, put your hope and trust in Him. Believe, then you will see God actively at work in and around you, others, and in the world.

Not Good Enough

 "Get up, go downstairs and go with them without hesitating or doubting, for I have sent them Myself." (Acts 10:20 AMP)

You may know people like this: devout; love God; pray; well-spoken of; generous. Such a man was Cornelius. In a vision, an angel of God told him his prayers and good deeds had reached the very presence of God (v. 3–4), and he told Cornelius to send messengers for Peter. So, he did.

Peter was a devout disciple of Jesus who loved God, was well-spoken, and believed in the power of prayer. God also spoke to him through a vision telling him that Gentiles were not unclean or unholy and to go with the messengers arriving shortly—without hesitation or doubt. He obeyed without questioning God’s instructions.

Cornelius had a heart for God and all people. Although a good, godly man, he needed God’s saving grace through Jesus. Peter had a heart for God and all Jews, but not Gentiles; he needed a heart adjustment. As God intervened in both men's lives, Peter accepted all people and shared the Good News of Christ with Cornelius, his family, and friends.

Devout and good-hearted Cornelius didn’t realize his life-path led to hell; so is anyone without Jesus. Cornelius and the others in his house that day heard and received the Gospel message and were added to God's kingdom. Like Peter, who judged others, some people need a heart adjustment. And like Cornelius, God wants salvation for all people (John 3:3).

Jesus said He is the Way, the Truth, and the Life; no one can go to the Father except through Him (John 14:8). There is no one "good enough" to enter heaven—God's way through His Son Jesus is the only way. Are you a member of God’s family? If you are and He says, "Go and tell others about Me," do you go without hesitation and doubting? 

Mountain Mover

 ". . . Whatever things you ask in prayer [in accordance with God's will] believe [with confident trust] that you have received them, and they will be given you." (Mark 11:24 AMP)

Have you heard this or asked the question yourself, "How can I know God’s will?"

God wants you to know Him. He doesn’t play games, try to trip you up, or hide truth from you. Sometimes you reject counsel or Scripture you read because it doesn’t suit your desires. In seeking God's will, avoid pulling Scripture out of context as that distorts the truth of the message. For example: Although all things are indeed possible with God (Mark 9:23), you will not receive everything you ask of Him. But when you ask according to God’s will, you will receive what you asked (1 John 5:14–15). Proverbs says that older men's beauty is grey hair (Proverbs 20:29) yet later says grey or white hair is a crown of glory only to those who live rightly with God (Proverbs 16:31). It is vital that we not “pick and choose” only portions of God's Word that suit our wants and needs.

Mountain-moving faith is real. Jesus preceded today's passage saying when you trust God’s unlimited power to do what He says He will do (that’s praying according to His will), you can tell a mountain to throw itself into the sea, and it will happen. When a mountain mover knows and petitions God’s will, life’s impossibilities become possible.

Are you seeking answers? Bring your petitions before God. Ask Him for cleansing, but you must forgive others, or God will not forgive you (Mark 11:26). Unforgiveness is a leading factor in not hearing from God. Decide within your heart that you only want what He knows is best and tell God that. Then trust Him with the right answer to your prayer.

Reflex Action

". . . Throw off your old sinful nature. . .  Put on your new nature, created to be like God—truly righteous and holy." (Ephesians 4: 22–24 NLT)

When she saw the men on four-wheelers trying to round up stray cattle, our Australian blue heeler sprang into action. Usually very shy and afraid of everything, the dog showed no fear as she circled the cattle, nipping at their hooves, forcing them to their pasture. Because heelers are a herding breed, her reflex action came naturally. She had a similar reaction when a duck, leading her brood of ducklings out of the pond, strolled across the lawn. With anticipation, the dog quietly watched until, at the right time, she circled the ducks and carefully herded them back to the pond where she thought they belonged. She was gentle with the fragile little creatures by instinct; no nipping at the heels needed. (I highlighted two of our dogs, Sheela and Bubba’s escapades in my book, Take a Number, Please.)

As God's prized creation, our "natural nature" falls in the category of sin. When wronged, retaliation is sometimes the automatic response. When undesirable situations stay unchanged for extended periods, impatience waits to spring into action. Left unguarded, our nature, unlike the heeler, succumbs to wrongdoing. Once you invite Jesus into your life, the Holy Spirit takes up residence, and you must consistently "throw off” the old you that continually wants to slither back into your life unnoticed. Only then can you "put on” the new you that produces fruit for God’s kingdom. 

The Bible instructs us as God's children to walk in the Spirit. An obedient life produces the fruit of love, joy, peace, long-suffering, kindness, goodness, faith, meekness, and self-control (Galatians 5:22–23)—the evidence of God's presence within. These characteristics should be our new nature every day. Walking with God requires steadfastness as we keep our eyes fixed on Jesus, the Author, and Finisher of our faith. Are you daily putting on the new you or allowing your old nature's reflex action to do what comes naturally? 

What Lurks Beneath

"And whatsoever ye do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God and the Father by Him." (Colossians 3:17)

Scout’s toy rolled under the bed, and the only way to reach it was with a long-handled "something." The new dust mop in the closet was perfect for the job. After pushing it back and forth a few times, the ball didn’t appear, but something else did. The never-used mop was very dusty. Disappointed, I thought, well, it has been two weeks since the last mopping.

The next evening, I passed the dust mop under three beds, and the floor was just as dirty as the day before. The problem: The cleaning team that comes every two weeks had just walked out the door. They hurriedly worked, skimping on their duties, thinking no one would notice.

Sometimes we approach our daily walk the same way. We know our responsibilities; what we should do, but sometimes we camouflage our day, so it just looks good. Do you sometimes rush through a commitment, half-heartedly completing it? Do you take shortcuts on some tasks, thinking no one would notice? Do you safeguard your thoughts? If anyone sees our day's results or not, we should do everything as unto the Lord. He is worthy; He sees and hears everything. 

God has rewards ready for His faithful children when they stand before Him face-to-face. On that day, we account for our time, words, thoughts, and actions as we served Him. He rewards us according to how we lived for Him and others. What lurks below in your life, those things that no one else but God sees? Would God store a blessing for you if He “passed a mop under your bed” today? Live daily as unto the Lord. 

Unshakeable

 ". . . When the flood arose, the stream beat vehemently upon that house, and could not shake it, for it was founded upon a rock." (Luke 6:48)

For many decades, the massive oak tree stood tall and stately, offering welcomed shade with its canopy of spreading branches. The aged tree was the focal point of the backyard and a beautiful backdrop for family pictures. Over the years, we noticed the ground mounding on one side of the tree, and each year the mound heightened. After weeks of steady rainstorms, we heard a cracking sound one day, looked outside, and saw the backyard beauty, as its roots slowly ripped from the ground and fall. The tree fell because its roots were not well grounded.

As Jesus taught the masses of people, He asked why they continued calling on Him as Lord when they refused to do what He taught. He likened the person who listened and obeyed His words to that of a wise person who built a house on a firm foundation. It would withstand storms. But the opposite was true of people refusing to obey His teachings. Jesus said their homes built on the unstable ground would collapse.

A tree has no voice, no choice in where or how it grows, but we do. We decide whether to receive the gift of God’s Son and live securely in Him or reject Him and face life storms alone. We weather those storms by yielding to the lordship of Christ, but the key is listening to and obeying Jesus. As we study the Bible, setting deep roots, and live out its principles, we have a firm, unshakable foundation in Him, the solid Rock. People who reject God’s offer of safety and stability face collapse in uncertain times (v. 49). Sadly, their innocent loved ones sometimes suffer harm amid the heap of ruins because they refused to hear and obey God's Word. 

The Letter

 "A word fitly spoken is like apples of gold in pictures of silver." (Proverbs 25:11)

I am so grateful for God’s faithfulness. He helped me share The Word with ladies who trusted me to speak truth week after week, year after year. Yet, even with His aid, the idea of retirement hung heavily around me. I felt ineffective; it was time for someone younger. But God called me to the task, so I brought the matter before Him.

Weeks went by, then a year with no word or sign from God. That is, until my birthday. I received several birthday cards with kind words and well-wishes for a blessed day. Then I opened the letter, a rarity with the many options of communication available today. The letter, too, had a birthday greeting, but the writer also filled the pages with encouragement. God used her words to minister; the hovering cloud disappeared—the “need” to retire was gone. If retirement time came, it would be only because of God's timing, not because of a pressing necessity.

When the Holy Spirit impresses you to contact someone, do it without hesitation because many distractions will vie for your attention to keep you from yielding to the Father’s prompting. Your thoughtfulness and obedience may shine God’s light on a concern or need for which they are praying. My sister-in-the-Lord obediently took time to sit, write, buy a stamp, and mail the God-appointed letter, words I needed to hear. I trust she recalls my gratitude. When you experience a similar blessing, remember to thank God and the messenger—by doing so, you bless both. In turn, speak God’s truth to those He leads you to encourage.

Obedience or Consequences?

 Plagues, wars and conflicts, diseases, poverty—have you wondered, Why? We live in a fallen world because of sin, but the sin-nature does not have to be the victor. We have a choice of whether to obey or disobey God. These are Moses' words to God's people before they entered the Land of Promise. The message of obedience or consequences has not changed over the centuries; it is still valid today. As God's people, absorb the verses considering where you stand personally and our stance as a nation with the Lord God:

"If you fully obey the Lord your God and carefully keep all His commands I am giving you today, the Lord your God will set you high above all the nations of the world.” (Deuteronomy 28:1 NLT)

 Obedience guaranteed blessings of their towns and fields, children and crops, herds and flocks, food supply, wherever they went, and whatever they did. God promised He would conquer and scatter their enemies and fill their storehouses with grain. He guaranteed the land and blessings were theirs if they obeyed Him. God gave His word He would establish them as His people if they walked in His ways, and all the nations of the world would stand in awe, recognizing them as a people claimed by the Lord (vs. 2–10).

The consequences of disobedience were the opposite of the blessings God promised. They would not only come but would overwhelm the people (v. 15). Because of Jesus, we live in the age of grace, but consequences for sin still apply. Do you sometimes feel overwhelmed? Cry out to God for mercy and help. God forgives sin and wants to bless His children, but the consequences of disobedience linger. For God's blessings, strive for obedience.

Shine as The Light

"As long as I am in the world, I am the light of the world." (John 9:5)

The message posted (receiving hearts and thumbs up reactions) was to stay close to people who shine as light. Why should what seems a reasonable statement be disturbing?

 

A porch light left on after dark is beneficial, but it could also pose a problem. Light attracts insects of all kinds and sizes. Because light not only attracts but draws insects to its glow, a "bug-zapper" is handy. Its light is more tempting than the porch light, for it "woos" the unsuspecting to "come closer," seducing them to their death. The point? Scripture warns us that Satan transforms himself into an angel of light (2 Corinthians 11:14).

Satan—the devil and enemy of our soul—convincingly masquerades as an angel from God. His goal? Seduce and zap both believers and unbelievers with his irresistible attraction. For the children of God, he wants to steal joy, kill service for God's kingdom, and destroy testimonies; he wants those without Christ in their lives to stay in bondage. Stay close to people who shine as a light only if that light emulated is from the Holy Spirit within a believer. How will you recognize the difference? Only those who confess Jesus came in the flesh and is the Son of God have the Holy Spirit living within them and them in God (1 John 4:1–4, 15).

In the familiar Sermon on the Mount (Matthew 5–7), Jesus declared, "You are the light of the world . . ." (Matthew 5:14). The Father’s Son, The Light, left this world; we are now that shining light because God chooses to dwell within those of us who belong to His family. We are to reflect God’s light, the light of hope, to a lost, darkened world.

Obstacles in the Way

 ". . . I will see if the Lord has anything else to say to me." (Numbers 22:19)

Balaam, a well-known sorcerer for calling out curses, learned that one’s desire for honor and riches should never overshadow obedience to God. Though he already knew God’s answer to the king of Moab’s request to curse God’s people, Balaam pressed the matter to see if the Lord had anything else to say. God was angry because of his greedy attitude but told him to go with the king’s men. Balaam left, unaware that God sent the angel of the Lord to block his way. Balaam's tunnel-vision of the king’s reward impeded his sight of the obstacle ahead—but his dependable donkey saw and stopped three times. Determined to continue his journey, Balaam angrily beat him for being obstinate. After the third beating, God enabled the donkey to speak, reminding his master of his faithful service in the past. God then opened Balaam's eyes, and he saw the angel of the Lord with a drawn sword, standing in the way. Balaam fell to the ground before Him and obediently followed God’s instructions. 

You sought the Lord on an issue, and He answered. You seek Him again, just in case you misunderstood, or He changed His mind. When we disagree with God’s decisions and in a round-about-way challenge—resist—Him, He may let us “go” where our stubborn heart desires. But God may place annoying or inconvenient obstacles in the way to delay or stop the direction you are going physically, mentally, or spiritually: a flat tire, traffic jam, a canceled flight, an unexpected employment change. There is no donkey to blame. When God acts, it is always with your best interest in mind. Open your eyes and obediently trust Him.

Standing in the Gap

 "The effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much." (James 5:16)

Even though brought up under the teaching of God's Word, the youngster messed up over and over. The pattern continued into adulthood; life is unstable. Does this sound familiar? What are we to do? The answer is: Pray.

Prayer should never be the last resort but the first reaction when we notice a need in someone’s life (or ours). This someone desperately needs help, someone to care. If God put a needy—discouraged, weary, and feels lost without hope of seeing the sunshine again— person in your spiritual path, He wants to use you. The "pray" referred to is not just a prayer or two for a week or month—unless God settles the issue within your spirit, and you rest in His answer. Otherwise, this type of praying is about intercession, a "standing-in-the-gap" kind of prayer; praying on behalf of someone until God grants you release.

Intercessory prayer takes commitment, requires time, sometimes financial aid, or other resources you have available. It may call for sacrifice, such as fasting. Intercession also requires you to pray to the Father to do whatever is necessary, not what you want. Be willing to accept God's answer. Whether they are aware of their dire circumstances or just unconcerned, if God put them on your heart, intercede on their behalf. Intercession is our duty as Christians. But for the grace of God, we would also need an intercessor (Galatians 6:1).

You may know someone with a life-breach, a person with a gaping hole who thinks life will never be any better; nothing will ever change. God is the Breach-Repairer. Are you willing to stand in the gap at His bidding; the one to intercede, to carry a message of hope to that desperate someone? A hurting world is waiting.

When God Says "Go"

 "Come now, therefore, and I will send thee unto Pharaoh that thou may bring forth My people the children of Israel out of Egypt." (Exodus 3:10)

Moses replied to God:

"Who am I that I should go . . .?" (v. 11)

"What shall I say unto them?" (v. 12)

"What if they won't believe me or listen to me?" (4:1 NLT)

"O Lord, I am not very good with words . . . my words get tangled." (4:10 NLT)

". . . Lord, please! Send anyone else." (4:13 NLT)

 Excuses, we all use them at some time or another—especially when God called us for a task of which we are uncertain. As you read the following paraphrased excuses Moses used, do any of them resonate with you?

I am not worthy of going.

I will not know what to say; besides, I don't know enough Scripture.

I don't have enough experience; why would anyone listen to me?

I am too shy, and when I get nervous, I don't speak clearly.

Lord, please send anyone except me.

 What Moses told God: "You made a mistake in choosing me." What we tell God: "You made a mistake in choosing me." God does not make mistakes with His plans set in motion before He laid the world's foundation. Take heart in God’s reply to Moses: "I will go with you." Trust His words for yourself when God says, go.

When God Says "No"

"For I know the plans and thoughts I have for you, says the Lord, plans for peace and well-being and not for disaster, to give you a future and a hope." (Jeremiah 29:11 AMP)

Since God always has our best interest in mind, why would we question His decision on a matter and ask (sometimes beg) Him to reevaluate the situation when He clearly said, "No?" If we stubbornly persist, He may give us what we want—which often carries grave consequences.

 

King Hezekiah was sick unto death when the prophet Isaiah brought him a word from the Lord: Get your life in order; you will soon die. Hezekiah prayed and wept bitterly before the Lord, reminding Him of his faithful service, asking Him to reconsider his fate. God heard his prayer, saw his tears, and healed him. His “yes you will die” changed to “no, you will not die now.” God granted him fifteen more years.

The son of Babylon's king sent his best wishes and a gift when he heard that King Hezekiah had recovered. Flattered by the attention, Hezekiah showed the Babylonian envoys everything in his palace, storehouses, and armory. After this, Isaiah delivered another message from the Lord: A day will come that the Babylonians will carry off everything in your kingdom, including your sons (because of his pride). Hezekiah selfishly told Isaiah the word was good, thinking well, at least it will not happen during my lifetime.

 God granted Hezekiah’s desire to live, but he did not use his extended time wisely. Manasseh was born and, after Hezekiah’s death, his twelve-year-old son became king, a wicked king. Hezekiah’s longing for longer life carried the costly consequences of an evil son and his kingdom's loss. His selfish prayer coupled with pride proved disastrous (2 Kings 19–20)

God will never scold his children for bringing requests before Him; He invites us to do that. But once He has spoken on a matter—when God says “No” (or yes)—and you beg for a different answer, which He grants, don’t be surprised or upset with the turn of events it may trigger. Those consequences continue long after we leave this life. Instead, as you pray and pour your heart out before the Lord, end your prayer with, “Lord, this is what I want, but more than what I desire, I trust You for what is best.” Avoid selfish prayers; you may get God’s “yes” when His “no” was the best answer. 

When God Says, "Wait"

"Wait on the Lord, be of good courage, and He shall strengthen thine heart: wait, I say, on the Lord." (Psalm 27:14)

You brought your request before the Lord; you prayed the prayer and meant every word with all your heart. Now the waiting begins. You waited and waited.

After waiting for what seems enough time for God to answer your prayer, you devise a logical plan, a plan you have convinced yourself that God ordained. The problem: He did not. By taking matters into your own hands, you have a high probability of experiencing painful results, just as Abram and Sarai (Abraham and Sarah). After waiting ten years for God’s promised son (Genesis 16), Sarai decided to implement Plan B, a plan of her unique design. Because of her foolish decision and Abram’s choice to heed her instead of God, grievous consequences followed.

Waiting on God is not a passive but active action. The wait-mode person actively trusts God, acutely aware of His activity, and prays until His perfect timing brings the long-awaited answer. Refrain from the temptation to dismiss God’s response because it was not to your liking nor manipulate matters to settle for what seems good; that action always overshadows God's best.

Waiting on God requires dedication, courage, steadfastness, faith, and trust in Him. Although she initially settled for what seemed right by asking Abram to take her handmaid as a wife to bear her son, God was gracious. At the age of ninety, the once-barren Sarah gave birth to God’s promised son; Isaac’s name means laughter. God’s timing is often beyond our understanding but waiting on Him always brings better than good; wait for His best. 

The Do-Over

 "If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness." (1 John 1:9)

You badly messed up this time; how can God forgive you—again? The enemy reminds you how many times you have failed on this issue and dredges up past failures. "You should be ashamed of yourself," he whispers.

Awareness of wrong is only the starting point towards forgiveness. If that knowledge does not lead to confession of the wrong, you only experience remorse. Remorse or regret does not bring forgiveness; neither will mere confession of sin. A change must take place.

Because of Jesus' death on the cross, you receive forgiveness of sins when you admit (confess) your sin to God, ask Him for forgiveness, and change your think pattern and the direction of where you are going—turn away from your sins—turning to Him. This action is true repentance, and Scripture is clear, God, by His grace and mercy, cleanses, forgives, and wipes away the sin of those who turn to Him (Acts 3:19).

Regardless of how insignificant or horrific you or others think your sins are, God forgives you. Once forgiveness is yours, your life-slate is clean, and God never mentions your past sins because He chooses to "remember them no more" (Psalm 103:12). God blessed you with a life do-over. Thank Him, embrace the fresh start, and serve Him with all your heart.

Does God Hide?

 “And I will surely hide My face in that day for all the evils which they shall have wrought, in that they are turned unto other gods.” (Deuteronomy 31:18)

Does God hide from His children on this side of Calvary? No. God does not play “hide and seek.”  He said if we search for Him with all our heart, we will find Him (Jeremiah 29:13). God did not hide from the Israelites nor the believers in the early New Testament days, and He does not hide from us, but He does turn His face away from evil. What did the Israelites do for God to hide His face? They were on the brink of crossing over into the Promise Land, and God foreknew they would follow other gods. He gave them fair warning that “in that day”—because of the evil He knew they would do—He would hide His face from them.

God does not hide; we are the ones who hide or think we hide from God. He knows every sinful act we have done and all the future evil intents of our hearts. Sometimes we are the “other god” we choose to follow, and He knows the path disobedience paves—troublesome days, and we live in troubling times today.

What are “all the evils” done by turning to other gods? God revealed some of those as He instructed Isaiah to tell the questioning people that their pretense of worship, repentance, fasts, and prayers did not move Him because they acted on their own behalf, not His. Only after they humbled themselves would He rescue them from their troubles. God was interested in fasts and penance that led to right-living: help the needy with food, clothing, and housing; help family members in need; stop quarreling and gossiping. By doing this, their lives would turn around, and God Himself would give them safe passage. They would call out for help, and He would say, “Here I am” (Isaiah 58).

We live in desperate times. We cry out to God, yet He sometimes stays unmoved. Is our worship, prayers, repentance, and fasts genuine, from the heart? Is God impressed by these godly but insincere actions from individuals or a nation? Evidence is clear that He is not. So, what can you and I do? Seek His face with a humble heart and live obediently to His Word. He is not hiding but very nearby. When rightly related to Him, He will lift you and me to walk in righteousness amid difficult days (James 4:8–10).

When Sparks Fly

 "Iron sharpeneth iron; so a man sharpeneth the countenance of his friend." (Proverbs 27:17)

"Strike while the iron is hot." A blacksmith pounds away at the blade or horseshoe after pulling it from the red-hot fire. He cannot sharpen or shape the iron until it reaches the right temperature. Heating, striking, and cooling are crucial to the finished product.

Just as iron sharpens iron, God impresses His children to encourage, inspire, and challenge (influence) one another through discussions that hone and develop thoughts and feelings into a clearer perspective. His resonating message forges truth, "striking while the iron is hot,” and His developing work that sharpens and shapes each person may cause flying sparks. But beware of striking a message of your own making, one that satisfactorily shapes a person to suit your liking. Such words can ignite injurious sparks that cause hurtful and sometimes unfixable consequences.

When sparks fly during the forming process, never try to soften God’s message: "Faithful are the wounds of a friend, but the kisses of an enemy are deceitful" (Proverbs 27:6). A loyal friend will speak God’s truth even if it stings. A real friend is not one who sugar-coats words for personal gain or to spare feelings but boldly proclaims God’s error-free word. Sweeten a God-given message only if He offers a spoon of sugar.        

Leaf Without a Tree

 "And he shall be like a tree planted by the rivers of water that bringeth forth his fruit in his season; his leaf also shall not wither, and whatsoever he doeth shall prosper." (Psalm 1:3)

Scraggly-looking red-tip hedges planted in clay-ridden soil lined the property frontage, looking pitiful because of poor soil and years of neglect. Not wanting to discard but save them, we found the perfect spot for relocation: the fence surrounding the oxidation pond. We filled each plant's hole with fertilized water, gently loosened each one's root system as they nestled into their new home, and then covered them with the rich soil. Today those once sad-looking hedges stand as healthy, flourishing trees, displaying the beauty of their foliage and, at the same time, camouflage the oxidation pond. Connection with the right source was vital to their success.

The writer began this psalm by describing a godly person: one who listens to and obeys God. This person has friends and associates who are like-minded in dedication to God. The writer likens the God-pursuer to a flourishing tree that bears its fruit at the right time. It prospers because its roots are near a nutritional source. Because you belong to God and strive to serve Him, you will thrive and bear fruit as you draw from the Source of Living Water. Though you cannot ever sever yourself from God’s care—and He will never let you go—you can stunt your growth by disregarding His instructions and rejecting His resources offered for your success.

What is a leaf without a tree? Dead. A tree without sustenance will weaken and lose foliage, and leaves without a tree cannot survive. When you accepted God's offer of salvation, He planted you in Christ Jesus, into His family, and sustains you. As His child, you will flourish and produce fruit for His glory at just the right time if you obey Him and stay in fellowship with Him. Because of God's grace, your obedience, and faithfulness, you are among the godly; your life will produce beauty, and you will prosper.

Peace Thief

 "Are ye not much better than they?" (Matthew 6:26)

The situation replays in your mind over and over. It is your first thought when you wake in the morning—you dream about it. It is with you day and night. Fret and worry may start over a small matter, but mushrooms into a consuming monster if left unattended.

Jesus had just begun His ministry, called the twelve disciples, and began teaching, preaching, and healing. He quickly became well-known, and multitudes followed Him. Seeing significant needs as He looked upon the masses of people, He went up the mountain and sat down to teach them. In chapters five through seven, Jesus taught life principles to the needy, hungry listeners; teachings still applicable and valuable for us today.

Worry not only robs us of peace, but it also robs us of joy. If God cares enough to supply food for birds who did not plant, harvest, or store their food, why do we fret over concerns in our lives? Jesus said we are not only better but much better than the birds—they sing beautiful songs in praise to their Creator; we serve Him and proclaim salvation through Jesus. 

Instinctively, birds know where to find God's provisions to survive. We, who are much better than them, should automatically turn to God when feeling unsettled and hungry for answers, not as a last resort. Roll your anxieties and concerns over to Him and live worry-free like the birds. Receive what God provides, and claim victory in Jesus' name over the peace thief.

Scales of Justice

"And now abideth faith, hope, charity, these three; but the greatest of these is charity." (1 Corinthians 13:13)

Make a mental list of sins beginning with the one you consider the vilest. Why do you think the number one sin you listed is worse than any other? Is there a sin viler than others?

Paul lists three virtues in the focal passage: faith, hope, and charity (love). As he pens this letter under the Holy Spirit's leadership, he ends verse thirteen with love as the greatest of the three. Hmm, charity is listed last, yet noted as the greatest—just food for thought.

In Proverbs 6:16–19, the author writes that God hates six things, and seven are an abomination to Him. Though not an exhaustive list of evils, they are written in this order: a proud look, liars, people who kill the innocent, a heart that creates wicked plans, people eager to do evil, a false witness who speaks lies, and people who sow discord among friends.

Though we tend to rate sins in order of how awful they seem, sin is sin. Interestingly, lying is listed twice in these verses, and stirring up trouble is last. But whether we believe one evil outweighs another, the truth of the matter is anything contrary to God's Word is an offense, and all unrighteousness is offensive to God. Because another person's sin is different from yours does not make it more horrible than yours. God alone is the righteous Judge. If He weighs offenses, the scales of justice in His hand has Jesus on one side, and each of us on the other. The scale will never tip in our favor: all have sinned and fall short of God’s glory (Romans 3:23). 

Snow Days

"Preach the word; be instant in season, out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort with all long-suffering and doctrine. For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine; but out of their own lusts shall they heap to themselves teachers, having itching ears; and they shall turn away their ears from the truth, and shall be turned unto fables." (2 Timothy 4:2–4)

We now live in the last days, perilous days that grow worse by the day. Jesus said this would happen before His return. Paul instructed young Timothy as he embarked on his calling to preach God's Word, to stand firm in the truths he learned, and boldly proclaim God's message. He told him the godly in Christ would suffer persecution, and the wicked would "wax worse and worse," looking for teachers who would tickle their ears with what they wanted to hear, disregarding the faithful preacher of the Word. Paul urged Timothy's readiness in and out of every season; preparedness was essential to refute false teachers and teachings, reprimand the sinners refusing to turn from their sinful ways, and encourage those struggling. He was to take full advantage of every opportunity to minister, and if there was none, strive to make one. Eternity awaited, and the Judge was standing nearby.

As Christians, we, like Timothy, are God's ministers with the message to proclaim that Jesus saves. But the time for God's redeeming grace is quickly ending, so we must be diligent to spread the Word and His love. We must be ready, alert always, and walk carefully in God's truths we've learned. Like snow days in the South, the unexpected can happen at any time with little or no warning; life's circumstances take us by surprise, and ministry opportunities await, so readiness is always crucial.

Intruders

 “Neither give place to the devil.” (Ephesians 4:27)

A Cyprus tree sprang up at the edge of the pond. When it reached eight feet in height, intruders found it lovely and tasty. Beavers, entering the pond through the overflow drain, downed it, not once, but a second time after it grew back. It was not until we found the lodge and destroyed it that the pond is beaver-free today. The determined tree now stands tall and beautiful once again.

The same is true in our Christian walk. Intruders find an entryway into our lives (sometimes of our own making) and undetected, hunker down, planning to stay awhile. Sometimes we are unaware of their presence until we see the havoc and destruction they cause. What are the ways of entry for the unwelcomed company? The apostle Paul, addressing believers and followers of Christ, states what we must rid ourselves of to grow as Christians (vs. 17–32). But in one area, he is explicit: anger that leads to sin. Ungodly anger is a foothold for the devil to gain access to your life. Once he has a toehold anywhere, he strives to tear life down.

The struggling tree could not defend itself against its adversary, but its regrowth was the tree’s responsibility, and it had the tenacity to thrive. We know from Jesus’s teachings on how we should live and what we must do to live pleasing to Him. We must destroy “the lodge” of the enemy, rid ourselves of everything that gives place to him, and live righteously for the One who gave His all for us.

God Blesses Those

 

“I will bless those who have humble and contrite hearts, who tremble at My word. . .” (Isaiah 66:2b NLT)

 King David confessed and repented of his premeditated sin with Bathsheba and Uriah, her husband, and found God’s forgiveness. Though highly educated and well-versed in the Law, the apostle Paul told his listeners he came to them, not as an expert in speech or wisdom, but timid and in weakness, deliberately speaking plainly, putting aside everything except the message of Christ crucified. Both men acknowledged their need; both men depended on God’s wisdom and grace; both men honored God’s holiness.

God is holy. God blesses those who humble themselves before Him with repentant hearts and reverently respond to His Word, His greatness. He knows our need before we do; He hears our plea before we cry out to Him; He will answer. God will bless those who approach Him with the right heart.

“And it shall come to pass, that before they call, I will answer; and while they are yet speaking, I will hear.” (Isaiah 65:24)

Superficial Damage

“The human spirit can endure a sick body, but who can bear a crushed spirit?” (Proverbs 18:14 NLT)

As she drove down the driveway, the distracted visitor hit the old stately cedar tree, doing more damage to her vehicle than the tree. Or so it seemed. A black streak slowly developed, ever-increasing upward; disease found its way into the tree, eating away at it from the inside. Later, small branches died, then a larger one. The tree had suffered more than a minor blow that day and would still be healthy today had I cared for the superficial damage.

Distractions happen. Accidents happen. You take your eyes off the road for a split second while driving and often veer off into an unintended direction. Losing focus, even for only a moment, carries consequences, some much greater than others. Unfocused people sometimes unintentionally “backup” into others, causing wounds that seem insignificant, leaving the wounded unattended. But later, human emotions creep in, and the victim’s minor issue festers. What seemed slight on the outside grew as a consuming infection on the inside. Other times harm is intentional, leaving victims weakened or hurt physically, emotionally, mentally, spiritually. We endure injuries to the physical body, but damages to one’s soul (mind, will, and emotions) are never shallow and without consequence, often spiritually.

A sickly tree cannot care for itself, but we can tend to ourselves, though some do not. Sometimes a person is negligent or too bitter about their personal needs; other times, they may not recognize their condition, while others choose to wallow in self-pity. When the Holy Spirit’s leading draws you to someone struggling in life, pray for/with them and obediently do what you can in being the hands and feet of Christ fulfilling His command to love one another.

Condemning Fingers

 

“You may think you can condemn such people, but you are just as bad, and you have no excuse.” (Romans 2:1a NLT)

You raise your hand and, with your second finger, call attention to something or someone. The problem with using your index finger to point out obvious flaws in anything or anyone is that you have three condemning fingers pointing back at you, not just one, but three. Pointing can happen without lifting a finger. Without raising a hand, you can accuse or criticize others with your words or thoughts, but in doing so, condemn yourself.

Who are the “such people” in the passage? In his letter to the Christians in Rome, the apostle Paul warns them about God’s anger concerning humanity's wickedness. There is no excuse for anyone not to know God's truth because it is clear by seeing everything He made (Romans 1:18–20). Paul describes the depravity of those who recognized God but rejected Him by wicked and shameful living noted in Chapter One. Having no desire to change their ways, God turned them over to their vile hearts’ cravings (1:24–32).

According to God’s Word, when we spot and point out flaws and wickedness in others and think they deserve punishment, we recognize the evil because the same faults are in us (2:1). But by the grace of God, we are capable of the same things as those we accuse and deserve the same sentence of God’s disapproval and judgment. Before judging others, including their children, remember: Whoever digs a pit will fall in it, and when you roll a stone, it will roll back over you (Proverbs 26:27).

On the Other Side

 

“But straightway Jesus spoke to them, saying, ‘Be of good cheer; it is I; be not afraid.’” (Matthew 14:27)

After seeing miracle after miracle, the disciples showed their lack of faith by asking Jesus how He could feed thousands of hungry people with only a few small baskets of food (vs. 14–21). They failed this faith-lesson, but Jesus had another one prepared.

Jesus miraculously fed the hungry listeners, then instructed His disciples to board a boat, cross over the eight-miles-wide Sea of Galilee and wait for Him to meet them on the other side. Midway, a violent storm arose that prevented them from turning back or going across—obeying Jesus and forces of nature had them stuck in a storm. Fear of the raging storm and the darkness of night veiled the disciples’ vision as Jesus walked on water towards them; they thought He was a ghost. Once again, they lost sight of who He was and all that He taught them. When Jesus spoke, they recognized Him, and fear left. The storm ended as Jesus got into the boat with them, and they safely crossed over.

Sometimes God’s children prove the same lack of confidence in His ability, the Creator of all that exists, because of what our physical eyes see. But He has teachings ready in advance for us as well, lessons carefully crafted with teaching techniques fitted for every individual’s best. After completing each assignment, the next will be just a little more challenging. Training is always for our good, although not all life-storms originate with God; some are of our own making, while others are the work of our adversary of this world to discourage and defeat us. But if you are in a storm, it is only by God’s permissive will. You nor Satan can override His authority.

Whether God has thrust you into a storm, you created one yourself, or the enemy wielded it—no matter the cause of your storm-like struggle—you never go through it alone. Jesus said He would never leave us or abandon us (Hebrews 13:5). If you feel alone, you are not; you merely lost sight of God’s Savior—your Rescuer. Jesus is with you and will see you safely through to the other side of the problem. He will never leave you. Listen closely for His voice as He whispers, take courage, don’t be afraid; I am here with you. Each difficulty you undergo and overcome with God’s help prepares you for the next one; life-lessons do not end until we meet our Maker face-to-face.

Fixed Focus

 

“. . . Looking unto Jesus, the Author, and Finisher of our faith . . .” (Hebrews 12:2)

The Amplified Bible interprets this segment of verse two more precisely:

“[Looking away from all that will distract us and] focusing our eyes on Jesus, who is the Author and Perfecter of faith [the first incentive for our belief and the One who brings our faith to maturity] . . .”

The passage in Hebrews quoted on the first day of January begins with the word “wherefore” (or therefore). This word links the heroes of faith mentioned in chapter eleven to what the writer says in chapter twelve: “Wherefore, seeing we also are compassed about with so great a cloud of witnesses. . .” Whether these named and unnamed faith heroes, along with our loved ones and angels in heaven, form this “great cloud of witnesses” and watch as we run our race is unknown. But we do know innumerable witnesses surround us. Whoever the witnesses are, I like to think of them cheering us on, like spectators in sports events applaud and cheer to encourage the participants. Victory is possible by God’s grace. The heroes of faith’s life-run are an inspiration for us to endure to the end.

Believers must train rigorously with dedication, just as athletes. We must consistently nourish ourselves with God’s Word; we must take off anything that impedes our running. We must run with determination and a fixed focus—not on circumstances, not on people, not on the past, but Jesus. Don’t lose heart; consider all He endured for you on the cross. Catch your second wind and keep going. No stopping until you cross the finish line and rest in the arms of Jesus, who is waiting for you.

No Looking Back

“. . . And let us run with patience the race that is set before us.” (Hebrews 12:1)

The King James Bible uses the word patience in this verse, which sounds more passive, not as assertive as the Amplified Bible’s “endurance,” which is the meaning here. Persistence suggests you are in it for the long-haul, doing whatever it takes to carry out the task at hand. Running life’s race of faith requires steadfastness and stamina because the route is not always challenge-free. Sometimes the path leads uphill and other times, downhill. Sharp curves may take you by surprise, but with God alongside you, you can make it. Obstacles will fall across the way, but like the hurdler, jump over them (or run around them); just don’t quit.

 Even though you hurdle those barriers that fall, they can still stunt your performance because sometimes, they are of our making:

Regrets: Dwelling on past transgressions causes stagnation; it does nothing but harm. Although it is impossible to find all the loose feathers once you shake them out of a pillow, you can find peace with your Maker. Look for and receive forgiveness from God and, if needed, the offended party, and move on.

Guilt or Shame: Those mistakes you made are behind you. You asked God to forgive you, and He did. No matter how grave they were, stop looking back and wondering, What if. Thank God for His grace, learn from your mistakes, and continue forward. And though some failures sprout consequences, they need not cause stumbling. Accept what God allows and seek His wisdom and strength to deal with any ripples caused by your poor choices or failures. God’s love never diminishes—He wants His best for you.

Debilitating thoughts often tear believers down quicker and do more damage than the enemy of our soul. But our minds stay healthy and at peace if we follow these instructions from the apostle Paul: “Don’t worry about anything; instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need and thank Him for all He has done. Then you will experience God’s peace, which exceeds anything we can understand. His peace will guard your hearts and minds as you live in Christ Jesus” (Philippians 4:6–7 NLT).

Each day draws you closer to the prize that awaits. Keep running with unwavering confidence in the One who called you. Set your face like flint toward the finish line, no looking back. Jesus, the Author and Finisher of your faith, is waiting for you. 

Keep Your Stride

“. . . And the sin which so easily and cleverly entangles us. . .” (Hebrews 12:1 AMP)

External factors and personal sins will slow us down in our race of life, so we must cast off those weights. Then there is “the sin.” Everyone has an effortlessly and shrewdly entangling sin. What is that one sin? Because we are all different, so is that fault for each of us.

How do you recognize “the sin?” That besetting sin is the one that happens more often than others, the one that sends you into a tailspin, making you lose stride; it may even knock you off your feet. Is your flaw impatience or self-control? Are you a “fixer,” thinking you alone know the right way or answer? Are you easily drawn into gossip, spreading words that are unkind, untrue, or none of your business? Short tempers, over-indulgence, pride, tale-bearing—or whatever the sin is that trips you most in life—is the one that will most hinder your walk with the Lord, distort your Christlike image, and obstruct success to the finish line.

Although we are often our worst enemy, the Christian’s adversary of this world, Satan, has minions always watching and listening for believers’ embarrassing shortcomings and failures. When we speak words of frustration, despair, fear, and defeat, we open the door of opportunity for them that work gladly and tirelessly concocting situations to trip or detour us in our goal of Christlikeness. So, carefully guard your words, actions, and reactions.

Are we doomed if everyone has a sin that plagues their daily walk? No. Talk to God. Tell Him you recognize the problem (of which He is already aware) and surrender it to Him. As you draw from His resources of strength and wisdom within you, trust Him to help you overcome every obstacle in the way. Keep your stride. God wants you to run obstruction-free even more than you do. 

Ready, Set, Go!

 

“. . . Stripping off every unnecessary weight. . .” (Hebrews 12:1 AMP)

We are in a life race, and from the start line to the finish line, our lifelong run is about conforming to the image of Christ, becoming more like Him. In our transforming process into His likeness, we are to tell others the Good News of everlasting life (John 3:16) and Jesus’ soon return. But along the way, we pick up needless and sometimes harmful “baggage” that hinders us; those bags must go.

The word “stripping” reminds me of removing a surgical bandage that must come off at the right time for complete healing. You know it will cause discomfort, may even draw tears to your eyes, but you do it because it is necessary. Each person carries weights; some of them are for the good of fellow believers: In Galatians 6:2, the Bible calls for Christians to bear one another’s burdens because it fulfills the law of Christ (love one another). Other loads we carry are self-inflicted consequences from poor choices. Then there are weights packed on from external factors.

One outer weight to consider is the company we keep. If people you often associate with are negative rather than positive, separate yourself from them. Do your associates live contrary to God’s Word—untruthful, untrustworthy, or unruly; do they speak poorly of God’s children? Some of those people you need only distance yourself from, while others you must disassociate with—strip them off—no matter how painful the parting. You can minister to people without a “buddy-close” involvement.

Intimidation is another outside force that hinders the life-run. The tongue is a small organ, but one with great power. With it, words spoken can build up, tear down, or hold hostage—the person who told you that you would never amount to anything or you can never change: Destroyer. The parent who pressed you to follow in their occupation even though God gave you a specific, different path, or the person who made you promise something on their deathbed: Hostage Taker. As the hearer of words spoken to you, allow the Holy Spirit within you to filter what to receive or reject.

Strip off every weight from your mind, heart, and life—those that are self-induced or come from outward forces, so you run the race unhindered. Discard everything from your life that is not from God and run victoriously.

Begin the Ending

 

“Wherefore, seeing we also are compassed about with so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight and the sin that doth so easily beset us, and let us run with patience the race that is set before us, looking unto Jesus, the Author, and Finisher of our faith . . .” (Hebrews 12:1–2)

Today you begin the ending of another New Year. You make resolutions with the sincerest heart, but some of your heartfelt and well-thought-out plans are short-lived. Often, those well-intended resolutions are not honored because of lost focus. Focus is intentional, a concentrated and fixed sight. Focus is vital in keeping us on track, which brings us to the passage's subject: a race. Whether athletically inclined or not, everyone alive is a participant in the race of life. But the writer of Hebrews focuses on believers, God’s children, running in this unique race. 

Many track runners wear skimpy, lightweight, well-fitted clothing and shoes, and sometimes headgear, so the wind flows freely over them as they run—no resistance. A healthy diet, exercise, rest, and daily training are crucial for physical fitness to run a race, but this passage does not mention any of these. Instead, he instructs believers to “lay aside every weight.” We are to cast off everything that might constrict or resist our way through life: concerns, wrong attitudes, unforgiveness—anything that would hinder success in our lifelong race. This removal includes “the sin that so easily besets us,” the one “something” (or someone) that triggers you to think, say, or do that which would not happen under normal circumstances. Unless you cast off that besetting sin, it will trip you up every time.

Once you have removed all hindrances, run with perseverance. Keep your eyes—your focus—on the Author and Finisher of your faith; no hesitation, no looking back, or you will lose stride, or worse, stumble. Jesus is with you from the beginning of your faith-run and will be there as you cross the finish line. Be resolute every day to run your race well; there is a host of witnesses who have gone on before you, watching and cheering you on to victory.