Second-guessing God and Yourself

"Ponder the path of thy feet and let all thy ways be established. Turn not to the right hand nor to the left; remove thy foot from evil." (Proverbs 4:26–27)

God charged the man of God to leave Judah, go to Bethel where he found Jeroboam, Israel's king, desecrating the altar by burning incense (1 Kings 13:1), the high priest's duty. Fearlessly and loudly, he spoke against the altar and prophesied about the coming of a righteous king (Josiah), a message of which the king disapproved. But God's anointed stood firmly, and following God's instructions not to eat, drink, or turn aside from his assignment, went home another way.

An old prophet in Bethel heard what the man of God did, rode out after him, and persuaded him to change course because he, too, heard from the Lord. But he lied and convinced the man of God to dine with him. While still at the table, God spoke through the false prophet, telling the man of God he would not be buried with his ancestors because he defied the Lord's word, disobeying Him by turning aside. God's prophet left, and along the way, a lion killed him, leaving his body on the road. When the old prophet heard of his death, he went out, found the corpse, and buried the man of God in his own grave.

 God spoke to you; the message was simple and clear to travel the path He put before you. But a situation arose, or someone (or yourself) caused you to question your actions, and you turned aside from His directive. Because you are a man (or woman) of God, you thought, Surely this is what God wants. But you were not hearing from God. Is turning aside from what you know God spoke worth the consequences of disobedience that await? The man of God did not meet with an unfortunate accident along the way. Because of his disobedience, the Lord delivered him unto the lion—he missed the honor of burial in Judah with his ancestors. God may put you to the test; don't let others' voices, temptations, or distractions rob you of the honor and blessings that await your obedience.

Soul Soil

 Paul’s prayer for believers is that we know Christ’s love. Jesus loves us because God first loved us—He is love. God loved the world so much that He sent His only Son to die on a cruel cross, a sinless sacrifice paying the price for humanity’s sins.

Christ lives in the hearts of people who, by faith, invite Him into their lives. Once rooted in the soil of God’s love, we find sustenance for everything needed to thrive as believers, to grow and know God more. Though our finite minds cannot understand the greatness of Christ’s love, we believe by faith. Having yielded our lives to God, He fills our souls with Himself: “That Christ may dwell in your hearts by faith; that ye being rooted and grounded in love; and to know the love of Christ. . . that ye might be filled with all the fullness of God” (Ephesians 3:17, 19). Being deep-rooted in Christ, firmly set in Him, the fullness of God—all His attributes—are available resources for us to live like Jesus. Thank You, Father!

Blessed Hope

 Have you at times wanted to see and know the unseen and unknown? What lies ahead? But rather than see and understand the big picture, God wants you to see and know Him—Creator of heaven, earth, the sea, and all that is. You are blessed, happy when you have Him as your help, trusting Him to meet your needs: “Happy is he that hath the God of Jacob for his help, whose hope is in the Lord his God: Which made heaven, and earth, the sea, and all that therein is: which keepeth truth forever” (Psalm 146:5–6). He rescues the godly and is a fortress in times of trouble (Psalm 37:39). The Lord is a shelter, a refuge for the oppressed (Psalm 9:9). When life goes awry, He is our strength, a very present help in times of turmoil and distresses. What others mean for evil, God is greater and works all things together for good for those who love Him (Romans 8:28).

Joy and contentment come from knowing and placing our trust in the Lord God who made everything that exists. He is trustworthy; His promises are forever. Rest in His care and trust Him with your life’s picture.

Do You Know?

 “Know ye that the Lord He is God: it is He that hath made us, and not we ourselves; we are His people, and the sheep of His pasture.” (Psalm 100:3)

Know God, know peace. No God, no peace. People who refuse to acknowledge God are without God. We belong to one: God our Father, or the devil, the father of lies (John 8:42–44). God wants us to know Him personally as Creator, Father, Provider, Rescuer—in every aspect of life because He is the Life-Giver. We know Him by experience, recognition, observation, instruction, discipline, His Word. He made each of us for a purpose and equipped us to achieve it for His kingdom, but apart from Him, we cannot. We must depend on God and His power, not our ability.

Although life’s storms may shake our faith, we know He is God because of a personal relationship with Him through His Son, Jesus (1 John 5:20). In those storm-driven times, we look to Him and rest in His peace that goes beyond our understanding. People who know the Lord is God, that it is He who made us, and we are His people, the sheep of His pasture, are the ones who have true peace that comes from Jesus abiding within the lives of believers. The god of this world offers counterfeit peace. Almighty God, our Maker, is eternal peace.

Hole Filler

God wanted to destroy the Israelites in the wilderness because of their continual complaining and lack of trust in Him. And He would have done so, had not Moses, His appointed leader, stood in the gap before Him on their behalf (Psalm 106:23).

Stepping up to be a repairer of a breach is a task most people neither desire nor volunteer to carry out, yet the duty is needful. God-led appointments for such repairs are vital; otherwise, there could be devastating results for both parties involved. Repairing breaches requires obedient people of action and bearers of truth, sometimes using harsh words, words and actions not well received. Therefore, the one called to the task will not be popular, often disrespected, and sometimes rejected.

Sin has devasted this world since the beginning of time. But breach repair is not a task for the faint-of-heart nor the indecisive. The one called to duty is in for the long haul until the mission is complete or God grants release of the assignment. Whether repair of the breach is successful, those standing in the gap can rest in the fact that they faithfully fulfilled their duty: “. . . and thou shalt be called, The repairer of the breach, The restorer of paths to dwell in” (Isaiah 58:12). Just as God used obedient Israelites, He wants to use us, His Church, to stand in the gap. But obedience is necessary for the repair of broken paths to right living. 

Now You See It

Sometimes while vacuuming, you must unplug the cord and re-plug it into another outlet to reach every corner of the room unless you’re in a hurry and settle for a quick cleanup. But if you choose this route, a light will show what stayed behind. At times, the same is true of our spiritual house. We’re in a hurry, too busy, or unwilling to deal with the housecleaning needed. Then the Holy Spirit shines God’s light on the “stuff” in His children’s lives: “But all things that are reproved are made manifest by the light. . .” (Ephesians 5:13a). Unfortunately, we’re not always willing to take care of business because we know what the light will find as it searches each room. Why go there anyway? The rooms look okay from the entrance. But God is interested in what’s under the “furniture,” in the “corners,” and behind “closed doors.”

As followers of God, we’re to have no part with the deeds of evil and darkness; instead, expose them (v. 11). Yet, unwanted debris accumulates in our spiritual house, and a quick clean from the doorway will not suffice. God knows what’s under your furniture and in the corners. He knows what’s on the other side of your closed doors. We can’t do the thorough cleaning needed and must be willing to “unplug” ourselves and “plug” into the Source who can perfectly cleanse. As the Holy Spirit exposes each issue, ask Him to do what’s needed, and then let Him. When we confess our sins, He is faithful to forgive and cleanse us of every impurity (1 John 1:9).

Let's Celebrate

At first, the phrase “Christmas in July” perturbed me because of the commercial marketing involved but not any longer. Is there still advertising? Yes. Does it still promote Christmas movies? Yes. Does it still encourage early Christmas shopping with super deals offered? Yes. But for us who rejoice in the season rightly, the middle of the year is an excellent time to refocus on the time of Jesus’ long-awaited birth: “For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, which is Christ the Lord” (Luke 2:11).  

So why wait until December to concentrate on Christ’s birthday? Had it not been for our Lord’s birth, there would not have been His death and resurrection, or forgiveness of our sins, our hope of salvation. Praise God for His great love and mercy in sending Jesus, the One called “Wonderful, Counsellor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace” (Isaiah 9:6). Placing our faith in Him, we are adopted into His family and have the promise of eternal life with our Father. If you've invited Jesus into your life, His birth is something to celebrate year-round!

Knock, Knock

You rid yourself of things in your life that caused pain, misery, and defeat. Now—“swept clean”—you face a fresh start. But you were negligent; you didn’t invite Jesus to fill the cleansed space; you didn’t seek God’s Word for godly living. Old habits, evil desires, and that “bad thing” you were rid of found their former space clean and unoccupied: “. . . I will return into my house from whence I came out, and when he is come, he findeth it empty, swept, and garnished” (Matthew 12:44). They moved back in more powerful than before (v. 45).

This world’s evils cannot take up residence in a swept, cleansed, Holy Spirit-filled life; they may come knocking and cause havoc but cannot reside. Nothing can overcome Jesus once you invite Him inside: "Ye are of God, little children, and have overcome them; because greater is He that is in you than he that is in the world" (1 John 4:4). Make a wise decision; give Jesus unlimited access to your life and obey His instructions. 

No More Hiding

 Unlike soldiers who undergo training to withstand flesh and blood adversaries, the apostle Paul declares that Christians face warfare against evil spiritual forces (v. 12). For that reason, we need a different battle strategy—God’s weapons, power, and wisdom: “For the weapons of our warfare are not carnal but mighty through God to the pulling down of strongholds” (2 Corinthians 10:4). Paul doesn’t mention here what weapons he is referring to, but in Ephesians 6:13–18, he says to equip ourselves with the whole armor of God and prayer.

Satan’s goal is to keep people from faith in Christ and obedience to God’s Word. When believers yield to his cunning temptations, strongholds form, and only God’s power can loosen sin’s grip.  And if the weapons of our warfare are mighty through God and can pull down strongholds in our lives, where are they? Why are they often unused? Are you embarrassed by being a Christian? Are you clinging to life’s pleasurable sins instead of tearing them down? Are you unfamiliar with the weapons available through Christ or how to effectively use them?

We live in a chaos-filled world—spiritual weapons are necessary to combat the raging forces of wickedness. So, take up the armor of God and wear each piece with confidence: Believe God when you pray. Read and claim God’s Word, living in the assurance of and proclaiming your salvation. Stand boldly in faith, carrying the Gospel message. Speak God’s truth; know it, believe it, wrap yourself in it, and walk righteously. When you put on and stand in this full armor of God, trust His weaponry. Only then can you break life’s strongholds by His grace and power as He changes lives and defeats the enemy. God is honored by your faithfulness.

See You Later

After visiting family and friends, sometimes it’s difficult, even heartbreaking, to say goodbye, even knowing we’ll visit again. The term “goodbye” means “God be with ye,” a request for safe travel for someone you may not see for an extended period. Letting go, saying goodbye to family members and friends can pull on one’s heartstrings, but especially in death.

We experience grief when loved ones die. The apostle Paul writes to believers that we will grieve when they “sleep in Jesus” (die), but not without hope: “For if we believe that Jesus died and rose again, even so, them which also sleep in Jesus will God bring with Him. . . Wherefore, comfort one another with these words” (1 Thessalonians 4:14,18). We have hope because Jesus lives. Because He died and rose from the dead, we, who are in Christ, will live again. When God’s children close their eyes in death here, they enter His presence. There will be a reunion in heaven with those who have gone before us and no more “goodbyes”—we will be with the Lord forever.

Your Way or the "High" Way

Adults sometimes act like toddlers trying to hammer square blocks into round holes. We set our goals, make plans accordingly, and then busy ourselves making them happen—even if our way is wrong. Forcing the desire of your heart into a place where it doesn’t belong can be exhausting. Although weary from the struggle, you continue forging ahead because you know what you want and will not settle for less. You may accomplish your task, but like a child’s misused and damaged toy, not without leaving something or someone marred, scarred, or broken along the way.

Confidence in what you’re doing is reasonable, but self-confidence can also be harmful. There are times you will know God’s will and confidently walk in it; other times, you will not: “A man’s heart deviseth his way, but the Lord directeth his steps (Proverbs 16:9). Approach those uncertain days thinking, If the Lord wills, I will do this or that. Otherwise, you are boasting about your plans and abilities, sometimes under the guise of God’s will. Such boasting is evil (James 4:15–16). Instead, ask and allow the Lord to direct your steps; He alone knows what tomorrow holds, and His way is always best. Your actions will honor God, bless others, and advance His kingdom work.

Steady Hands

As Joshua led in the battle against Amalek, Moses, Aaron, and Hur stood on a hill in plain sight of all the people. When Moses held God’s rod up (without doubt, praying), Israel prevailed. The rod was a reminder of God’s power when Moses supernaturally summoned plagues upon the land of Egypt. The raised rod symbolized God’s presence, authority, and prayers going upward on behalf of Israel, a reminder that the battle was the Lord’s. But when Moses’ arms became weary, and his hands lowered, the enemy triumphed. So, God supplied the help he needed. Aaron and Hur sat him on a stone, and standing on either side, kept his hands raised all day: “. . . and his hands were steady until the going down of the sun” (Exodus 17:12). Israel prevailed in that battle.

Joshua was the commander going before Israel, fighting. Moses was the intercessor who stood above Israel praying. Aaron and Hur stood beside Moses in his weariness. Our Triune God is the Commander going before and fighting for us, the Intercessor standing before the Father on our behalf, and Strength standing with the weary. He supplies everything we need through Jesus Christ, but we must receive His offer. Child of God, our struggles, and sometimes weeping, may last for a while, but joy will come (Psalm 30:5). Praise Him—the battle is the Lord’s, and He is the victor.

When Life Isn't Fair

What happened to Joseph was unfair. It wasn’t his fault that he was born long after his half-brothers and that Jacob, their father favored him. Still, his brothers despised him. When he was seventeen years old, they had envied him so much that they sold him as a slave, letting their father think his Joseph had been torn to pieces by a wild animal.

Joseph’s unfair life events catapulted him into another country, yet Scripture doesn’t record he ever complained or blamed God. Even when Potiphar’s wife falsely accused him and was imprisoned for two years, he stayed faithful to God. Then God intervened; Joseph interpreted Pharaoh’s disturbing dream, and the king made him second in command over his kingdom. When his brothers came to Egypt for food, he received them with mercy and forgiveness and sent for his father and family to care for them.

Joseph was faithful in God’s divine appointment, saving multitudes from a severe famine. God turned what his brothers meant for evil to something good:  “. . . ye thought evil against me, but God meant it unto good. . .” (Genesis 50:20). Bad things happen to good people. Evils will corrupt this world until God brings heaven down and establishes His eternal reign here on Earth. Until then, live through your life’s dry seasons as Joseph: faithful, with great integrity and high morals, trusting that God works all things together for good for those who love and obey Him (Romans 8:28).

Silent Destroyer

Why is envy designated green? We sometimes refer to sickly people as “green around the gills.” They had a condition that infected and affected their body to the point that what was inside was about to exit, and it was not going to be pretty. Envy has a similar physical effect on the human body, quietly building up, growing as fast as healthy green grass—but one day, it will come out.

A “sound heart” positively influences, producing joy and peace because it’s free of unhealthy attitudes; envy is like cancer eating away the marrow of bones, a life destroyer: “A sound heart is the life of flesh but envy the rottenness of the bones” (Proverbs 14:30). A simple desire for what someone else has paves a pathway to jealousy. The longer it abides inside, the sicklier the body becomes. Envy drifts into anger; anger leads to hatred; hatred can lead to wrath, escalating to murder (even if only in thought).

Envy is listed in Scripture alongside some of the most despicable sins because of its destructive nature (Romans 1:29; Titus 3:3). Paul writes that we should imitate Christ as God’s children; those unspeakable sins should have no place among us (Ephesians 5:1–3). The Great Physician can cure anyone “green” with a physical illness or envy’s result. Healing is only a prayer away. 

The Covering

Soldiers at the cross fulfilled Scripture when they divided Jesus’ clothes, gambling for His outer coat because it had no seams: “. . . now the coat was without seam, woven from the top throughout.” (John 19:23; Psalm 22:18). Such a tunic (although more ornate), woven of one piece of cloth, was part of the High Priest’s attire as he entered the Holy of Holies yearly with the blood of a spotless, innocent lamb to make atonement for the sins of the Israelites. He alone was ordained to enter the sacred place after undergoing a purification process to perform this duty.

God’s Son rightly wore a seamless coat. Jesus, the innocent, sinless Lamb of God, died on the cross for the sins of all the world, a one-time sacrifice that would never need repeating (Hebrews 9:24–28; 10:12, 14). He became our High Priest and without need of the cleansing ritual, entered the Holy Place and presented His shed blood in the presence of His Father as atonement for the sins of all humanity.

Too much stress on garments’ seams can cause them to stretch, even rip open. But the covering God supplies for His children through Jesus’ death and resurrection Is big enough and strong enough and has no vulnerability. Nothing can weaken or tear God’s protection over those cleansed by the blood of the Lamb because He perfectly weaved it. Nothing can separate you from Jesus.

Appetite Satisfier

We have a heavenly Father who supplies our physical needs and wants to fill us spiritually with His goodness and blessings: “Open wide your mouth, and I will fill it. . .” (Psalm 81:10). But due to lack of knowledge, busyness, or stubbornness and forging our way, we miss His perfect plan, settling for less, and although good, we miss His best He had designed.

Many people are hungrily longing for “something;” some don’t know they are starving spiritually. Jesus fed the multitudes physically and spiritually; He was and still is the only answer satisfying our yearnings. It isn’t necessary to be a scholar of God’s Word to share hope, encouragement, and the love of God—the Good News of Jesus. When you tell others what God has done for you, He feeds their hungry souls through your testimony.

Maybe you’re the hungry one. Once you ask God to forgive your sins, and invite Jesus into your life, He takes up residence with you and fills you with Himself. If you're hungering to know more of Him, ask Him to feed you; open your mouth wide. He will satisfy your unexplainable yearning as you feast on the promises of His Word. Then tell others how the Bread of Life (John 6:35) filled your starving soul. 

Battle Plan

Job’s faith was put to the test when Satan claimed God’s blessings and protection were the reasons for his faithfulness. He was wrong, but God allowed him to do whatever he wished with his servant except take his life. In only one day, Job lost all his possessions, wealth, children, and health. Although he didn’t understand why God allowed the calamities, Job trusted his Maker, who “gives and takes away.” God proved his accuser wrong and blessed Job in the second half of his life more than in the first half.

King Jehoshaphat trusted God to defeat the approaching armies of three nations. Their defense? A choir. Yes, singers. Following God’s instructions through His prophet, the choir went before the army, praising God’s holiness. The enemy began fighting among themselves, and none survived. God’s people obeyed and experienced victory.

David couldn’t understand why King Saul and his army allowed Goliath to defy the living God. He took the giant’s challenge, facing him with a sling, five stones, and a staff. But David’s confidence wasn’t in any weapon; his faith was in God: “. . . for, the battle is the Lord’s, and He will give you into our hands” (1 Samuel 17:47b). The great warrior died that day.

Your battles are the Lord’s, too; trust Him, praise Him, and stand firm. The strategy used when you face daily struggles decides who emerges as the victor. The Bible teaches us that victory comes when we put our confidence in God; He never fails.

The Bottle's Message

 Our house guest wasn’t nosey, accusing, or insulting but needed confirmation about the bottle on the coffee tray that resembled a well-known brand of whiskey—ours held agave. We all had a good laugh, but I knew it was my duty to find a new container for the sweetener. What if our visitor had not asked about the bottle’s contents and left disappointed in his friends? What if he was not someone who knew us well, left our home, and told others about the “whiskey” he saw?

You may think, That’s his problem for making an assumption. Well, you are correct but also wrong. The Bible teaches us not to judge others, but once I learned that others could easily misconstrue the honey for a beverage, I felt it needful to act. Although whiskey is not evil, its abuse is, and the Bible admonishes believers to avoid anything that sets a bad example or gives reason for someone to stumble (or draw a wrong conclusion): “Abstain from all appearance of evil” (1 Thessalonians 5:22). God holds us accountable for our thoughts, words, and actions. Our agave now has an unmistakable container.

Be Still

The Red Sea before them and the enemy behind them, the people cried out to Moses, accusing him of deliverance from slavery where at least they were safe. They were what could be called “between a rock and a hard place.” Moses’ response? He told them not to fear, stand still, and see God’s salvation, adding the Lord would fight for them (Exodus 14:13–14). God did just as Moses said—He parted the sea for their safe passage and destroyed the enemy.

God is our refuge and strength, no room for anxiety. Whatever your pressing issue might be, let it go; hand it over to and leave it in the hands of the Almighty. By His reputation, believe Him: “Be still, and know that I am God. . .” (Psalm 46:10a). Recall God’s interventions in your life and acknowledge once again that only He could carry out such results by His presence and greatness.

Why do we have trust issues with God when He has always proven Himself faithful? We moved when He said to stay sometimes because He didn’t act within our logical timeframe. So we contrived plans to fix, prevent, or fast-track a situation—we circumvent God and take matters into our own hands.

Do you need reminding today that God is with you and for you? That He is your strength and safe harbor, whether in times of trouble or just for peace of mind? That His timing is always perfect? He is the same Lord of heaven’s armies as before; He can and will fight for you. Grant Him access to your life and trust Him.

The Unlikely

After King Saul blatantly disobeyed God, God told Samuel to choose a new king from Jesse's sons. When he saw Eliab, the oldest, he thought, Surely, this is the one. But God told Samuel not to judge by  appearances because He was more interested in the heart: “. . . For the LORD seeth not as man seeth; for man looketh on the outward appearance, but the LORD looketh on the heart" 1 Samuel 16:7.

One son after another in order of  their ages came before Samuel, and after the seventh one, Samuel told Jesse the LORD had not chosen any of them and asked if these were all his children (v. 10–11). Jesse replied there was still the youngest son taking care of the sheep. He sent for David, and as he stood before Samuel, the LORD said, “Arise, anoint him: for this is he.” Samuel and Jesse assumed the obvious, but that's not how God works. His thoughts and ways are not like ours, they are much higher, perfect. 

David had shepherding experience. He knew his father's sheep and had often put his life in harm's way to protect the flock under His care. David was a good shepherd; he loved God, depended on Him and trusted Him. Who better would care for God's sheep, His people?

Have others overlooked you as a likely choice? Like David, God isn’t interested in your outward appearance, but your heart; He has a purpose and plan for your life too. When He calls you to a task, be willing to serve and trust Him. A young shepherd boy did, and God called him “A man after His own heart” (1 Samuel 13:14). David's obedience gained him a place in the genaology of the long awaited Messiah. When you invite Jesus into your life, surrendering to His lordship, you gain a place in God's family. You are His priceless child.

The False Remedy

A woman reported she received a mail-in voter ballot for her cat that died twelve years earlier. This report is troubling, but knowing some people cast votes by mailing fraudulent ballots is more disturbing. Such actions are unfair; we live in a broken society, a society that can cause one to fret.

Fretting is a troublesome state of mind that temporarily calculates without God in the equation of the situation. As David penned these words, he wrote with a keen knowledge of the works of evildoers. Though his brothers mistreated him as a teenager and King Saul sought to kill him out of jealousy, David wrote confidently to not worry about troubling situations, not to fret or be envious of such evildoers. He was confident that those who devise wicked plans in their hearts, carry them out, and seem to prosper regardless of the evil intent, would one day receive recompense. David said, “Fret not thyself because of evildoers, neither be thou envious against the workers of iniquity” (Psalm 37:1).

What is it that you are fretting about today, that thing upsetting your state of mind, your soul? Worrying and agonizing do not change anything but can consume your thoughts and affect you physically. David writes that we should trust in the Lord, wait patiently for Him to act (v. 7), and not succumb to anger or retaliation (v. 8). All evildoers will one day be “cut down like grass” (v. 2). Evildoers think they are “getting away” with their selfish or evil schemes, but the Lord laughs at them because He knows their day is coming (v. 12). There will be a day of reckoning. 

All of life and every issue we face is in God’s hands, even unfair voting. Can God miraculously change any outcome? Absolutely! With all the unrest around you, choose to rest in God, wait patiently for Him to act. His timing is always right. Evildoers will not get away with their evil schemes; there is a day of accountability. God will one day “cut them down like grass”—unless they repent and get right with their Maker, the all-powerful, all-knowing, present everywhere, God.

 

Indoctrination

Their names were Hananiah, Mishael, and Azariah, but Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, their pagan names, may sound more familiar; Daniel became Belteshazzar. These four princes of Judah were among the many from Judah captured and carried off to Babylon to learn the Chaldeans’ ways and language in preparation to serve King Nebuchadnezzar (Daniel 1:3, 4). The eunuch in charge of the young captives changed their names that honored Jehovah to those that honored their pagan gods. The intention was to dethrone God from their lives and reprogram their thinking.

The name change and training for the Israelites were all about brainwashing, forgetting their families, homeland, and identity as Jehovah’s children, and meld with their new country. But these four would not blend or compromise. They refused to stop praying to the One True Living God; they refused to bow before King Nebuchadnezzar and his pagan gods. And for that, Hananiah, Mishael, and Azariah were thrown into the fiery furnace but were unharmed because “someone who looked like the Son of God” walked amid the flames, protecting them (3:27). Daniel was thrown into the lions’ den but came out unscathed because God sent an angel who shut their mouths (6:22). In both instances, the king declared they escaped death because of faith in their God. Their names may have changed, but their identity as God’s obedient servants did not.

You may have walked through life’s fires, coming through feeling scorched, smelly, with ash clinging to your body. Adversaries may have thrown you into situations where you faced powerful, snarling enemies, and you bear the scars of those battles. The enemy of your soul wants you to lose sight of who you are in Christ. He wants to brainwash you into believing your name is Regret, Failure, Unwanted, but your Father calls you Forgiven, Redeemed, Child of the One True King. Like these remarkable young men, refuse to bend to the lies of this world. Once you surrender your life to God, your identity as His child is secure in Him: “For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, they are the sons [children] of God” (Romans 8:14). 

Three is Better Than One

God created us for fellowship with Him, and healthy interaction with others is essential for a well-balanced life. He saw that it wasn’t good for Adam to be alone, so God fashioned a companion and presented Eve as his wife. Through the ages of time, the concept is still the same that humankind should not stand alone. When there are at least two, one can help the other in times of need.

Jesus said where at least two are gathered in His name, whether in worship, marriage, friendship, prayer, fellowship, etc., His Spirit is there with them (Matthew 18:18). His presence creates a threefold cord, a braid not quickly broken. When adversity strikes, you can stand: “And if one prevails against him, two shall withstand him; and a threefold cord is not quickly broken.” (Ecclesiastes 4:12)

Being intertwined with God secures you spiritually, physically, emotionally, and mentally. He not only has your back; you are surrounded, held, and covered by Him. But a rope can be unbraided. Separating yourself from God’s care does not weaken Him, nor does it mean you no longer belong to Him. It means you have chosen to go your separate way, leaving His guidance, fellowship, and godly influences. Doing so, you put yourself at risk, making yourself an easy target for the enemy. His wisdom and strength to help you are not yours—that is until you cry out to your Father in repentance. When you do, He is nearby and ready to forgive.

Dodging Death

Villains in fiction stories are not real. They are scary only if you allow them to grab hold of your thoughts and emotions; they are just fictional characters brought to life by imaginative people.

Life is not a fictitious narrative, but a “villain” longs to be the lead character, yet unable to override God’s authority in believers. Though he has profound power and ingenuity, our all-powerful God is far greater than he. And Satan knows that although, being a liar and deceiver, he has frightened and held captive many a soul. But believers will not stand idly by: “And they overcame him by the blood of the Lamb, and by the word of their testimony . . .” (Revelation 12:11). When we testify that God supplies salvation (eternal and daily rescuing) and forgiveness of sins by the shed blood of Jesus, yield to God, and resist the devil, he will flee (James 4:7). One day our opponent’s story changes when God casts him and his followers into the lake of fire, not to their death but to live in eternal punishment (Revelation 20:10, 15).

Another powerful life opponent is you. When you yield to your old nature taking over your words, actions, and thoughts, you become your life’s story “bad guy.” But you can rid yourself of the villain of “you” with the weapon of repentance by stop going your way—turn around and walk with God again. Repentance is a choice, and you must choose to receive God’s forgiveness.

Although some lives read like horror stories, a good editor can change the poor script and carry the narrative in the right direction. The great Editor-in-Chief—Almighty God—can take a broken life and not only repair but make it brand new for His glory. After forgiveness, regardless of your past, don’t allow either villain to regain a foothold in your life. Prove to the devil and yourself whom you trust and live out that trust. 

Dropping Anchor

 Before striking out on a boating trip, you need to check the supplies and equipment. And even if only a short trip, an essential boat item to have readily accessible is an anchor; it need not be large but heavy and strong. It will keep you from drifting. That is unless you forgot to connect it to the boat, didn't drop it in the water, or the line was frayed and broke.

Our hope in God, our trust in Him anchors our soul: "Which hope we have as an anchor of the soul, both sure and steadfast . . ." (Hebrews 6:19). This hope achieves for the soul what the anchor does for a boat, secures it. But a faulty connection or a tattered line will not keep you safe. Jesus said He prepared a place for us who have placed our faith in Him, a place in heaven with God our Father where we will spend eternity (John 14: 2–3). But to go there, your faith must first be anchored, "sure and steadfast" in Him, and God honors His Word.

The cares and stress of this world may play havoc with the rope on your anchor, but you can cry out to God for help; He can take your frayed life and reweave it sturdier than before. Is your hope in an eternal home with your Father steadfast, unwavering? After anchoring your faith in Jesus, the Rock of Ages, nothing can sever you from His care or eternity with Him, not even yourself (Romans 8: 38–39).

No Hiding Place

 I was unaware that one of my wrist braces fell, but our dog noticed. Later that morning, I saw Scout running with something in his mouth. Noticing his actions had gained attention, he ran behind a tree, thinking he was out of sight. As I took the treasure from his mouth, it had noticeably been buried and unearthed as is his custom. I would have never known what happened to the wrist support had he left it buried. But in digging it up, he exposed his wrong actions.

Some people approach wrongdoing similarly. They see something, want it, take it, and may even try to hide it. That "something" could be an object, a thought, or words that inflict harm. They may think no one saw their "treasure"—burying it for later. But God always knows where we are, what we're doing, and our thoughts. He doesn't wait for us to unearth that which we've tucked away; one day, God will expose those ill-gotten hidden things: ". . . And be sure, your sin will find you out" (Numbers 32:23).  So why not take care of that "thing" before He reveals all?

God's Word says if you confess your sins, He will forgive and cleanse you of them all (1 John 1:9); you will not be held accountable for them. Once forgiven, He chooses to remember no longer what He washed away, removing them as far as the east is from the west (Psalm 103:12)—they are gone. Let God cleanse you. He is faithful and merciful. God keeps His Word.

Faith Walking

The house we considered buying had been on the market for over a year, so we negotiated the selling price. But we were concerned someone would put a junkyard on the empty land next door, asking the owner to let us know when he was ready to sell the property; he gave his word that he would. We rented the house while waiting for the completion of the sale, and once settled, God reminded me of His words to Abraham about the Land of Promise: “Arise, walk through the land in the length of it and the breadth of it; for I will give it unto thee” (Genesis 13:17). So, I went outside and walked, claiming new boundary lines, asking God if we were to have the additional land, He would provide. I returned home with peace; the matter was in God’s hands.

Before signing the final paperwork, we discovered the house earlier had suffered considerable damage from the foundation settling, which the owner camouflaged with plaster and paint. At fault, he had to employ a reputable company to stabilize the foundation (quite pricey). We faced a perturbed owner at the signing and learned later he sold the property he promised us. But he didn’t know about my property walk with God.

Seven years later, the couple who bought the land asked if we were interested in purchasing a portion of it—the same acres I walked and claimed! At the signing of the sale, to my surprise, we sat face-to-face with the man who broke his word (he held the note for the couple), grumbling as we completed the purchase. God once again proved Himself faithful. But what if, on my faith walk, I settled for what satisfied a concern about a junkyard and missed God’s best by not claiming all He had for us?

Do you need to step out in faith with a decision you’re facing? Remember, “. . . ye have not because ye ask not” (James 4:2), or you asked for the wrong reasons (v. 3). Seek God, the Owner and Keeper of everything that exists; His supply is limitless. He knows your wants, your heart’s concerns, and your needs. He is always faithful with your best interest in mind, and as you step out in faith, guard against settling for what seems good yet missing God’s best. Claim all that He has for you, even that which you can’t see or understand. When you surrender to God’s will, you are already living in victory and will experience inner peace—no matter the outcome. Trust Him and start walking.

Free Indeed

Today we celebrate liberation. On July 4, 1776, the Continental Congress declared the thirteen original colonies were no longer subject to Britain’s rule and were free, united, and independent states; a nation was born. Men and women proudly and bravely have served and still serve our country two hundred and forty-five years later to secure this freedom.

Another freedom exists, that from self, by choosing to let go of independence, yielding to God’s authority and the gift of Jesus, who died so He could set you free from the penalty of sin and death we deserve (Romans 6:23). When you do, you are genuinely free: “Now the Lord is that Spirit, and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom” (2 Corinthians 3:17). Sadly, many believers live in bondage to discouragement, rejection, fear, guilt, resentment, shame, anger—sins of their own, sins of others, and sins of our nation. How can it be, since the moment we receive the gift of Jesus into our lives and the Holy Spirit takes up residence within us to live in bondage once again? You may disagree with the answer; it’s by choice.

Our heart condition plays a significant role in bondage-living. Rebellious and wounded hearts hide stubbornness and injuries that don’t heal because of choosing independence (self) instead of God-dependence. The result is isolation, frustration, and festering hurts. But  God knows the “why” of every heart problem. Freedom is not only available; it is within you. God wants you to live in the liberty His Son died for you to have. He longs for you to fully surrender to Him, receive His help, His forgiveness, and trust Him. Bring your petition before God. Your Father hears your heart’s cries and wants to work mightily on your behalf. Allow Him to do what only He can do—bring genuine healing that lasts. In complete surrender, trust God and experience Christ’s freedom. 

On Display

No matter how often you vacuum, the appliance’s light shining in its path reveals everything, even that which was unseen.

Because the Light of the Lord lives inside, believers should put away sins of the flesh and live by His standard of what is right. Integrity and godly character contradict the evil deeds of darkness. People make excuses for sinful habits and lifestyles, encouraging others to follow. Still, the light of God’s precepts exposes all sin: “But all things that are reproved are made manifest by the light . . .” (Ephesians 5:13a). God’s light exposes evil, and He deals with the disobedient. Use your time wisely—walking carefully, cautiously, looking all around, doing what pleases the Lord daily.

As an imitator of Jesus, follow His example of love and righteousness; there is no place or excuse for wrongdoing. Light makes everything visible, even that which lurks unseen. How you deal with God’s light exposing your life is crucial to your Christian walk and well-being. 

Lost Connection

The old tractor, repaired again, had only two working gears, moving faster in reverse than forward but still valuable for its purpose. Yet now, it was not moving at all. After a check-up, the repairman reported the battery posts had significant corrosion. There was no suspicion of that being the problem since they were inspected only a short while back.

Do you sometimes feel like you go faster in reverse than forward, taking one step forward but moving two backward? Has your connection with God eroded? A right relationship with God your Father is necessary for sparks to ignite your communion with Him. If there is the slightest sign of corrosion (sin—no matter how great or small), you must deal with it, or you will not move forward (prosper) in your daily walk: “He that covereth his sins shall not prosper: but whoso confesseth and forsaketh them shall have mercy” Proverbs 28:13.

Your life may be at a standstill; you’re in a rut. You cannot move forward in God’s intended plan for your life until you confess and repent of (turn away from, forsake) known sin in your life. It may be something you dealt with recently, but just like the tractor’s corroded battery posts, it cropped up again, and you overlooked it. Is it something you were to do that you haven’t yet done? Or, if you’re unaware of any sin, ask God to reveal the problem and let Him do what’s needed to restore a good connection with Him. Your heavenly Father wants fellowship with you and for you to prosper in His plans for your life.

Getting Back What You Give

In baking, the general rules of measure are to level off dry ingredients and measure liquids at eye level. But brown sugar, butter, and shortening are three ingredients with a different rule of measure: you must pack them in the cup for best results.

In Jesus’ teaching, known as “The Be-attitudes,” the topics of His sermon included righteousness, murder, adultery, divorce, oaths, love, charitable acts, prayer, fasting, wealth, and the way into the kingdom of God. He also instructed that we should love our enemies, do good and lend, not expect anything in return, be merciful as our Father, and not judge others. As Jesus concluded teaching that day, He said, “Forgive, and ye shall be forgiven.”

According to Jesus, whatever we “measure out” to others, we will receive the exact measurement in return: “Give, and it shall be given unto you, good measure pressed down, shaken together and running over, shall men give into your bosom” (Luke 6:38a). If we live rightly, we receive in return not only “good measure” (fair and accurate) but a measurement shaken and packed down. As your blessings overflow, they splash onto others. But remember, your measuring technique governs the benefits you receive. Do you “press down and shake together” fairness and generosity towards others until it spills over? The method you use for them will be the same one used for you. What “good measure” will you receive today in return?