The Power of One Word...Grace

I want to share a quote with you from a book I am currently reading. But before I do, I want to make an admission. OK, maybe we can just call it a "confession". And that would be that since I started blogging my reading has been almost non existent.  I used to devour books: I'm talking Christian books. I'd spend hours in them, then looking up scripture and taking notes.

I love to study the scriptures, and to "dig" in the rich and fertile soil of God's Word. Now I wouldn't just read anything, I'd pray first for God's direction in leading me to what He wanted me to read and study. Sometimes it would be a new release by a popular Christian author, then sometimes it would be a book by an author that has been in Glory for years. Prayer for direction is the key. I don't want to waste my time on reading something that isn't "Truth". Just because it's by a Christian author doesn't mean its scriptural. Does that sound harsh? Let me explain. There have been several blockbuster books written by Christian pastors and authors that the Holy Spirit would not give me permission to read. Books that sounded good on the outside, but deep down were not God's heart; they missed the mark. Literally hundreds of thousands of books sold to hungry Christians that in reality were only one man's opinion, and that opinion was limiting of who God really is. And if there's something that I've learned in the last 15 years, it is that we cannot limit God. Not in His powerful love for us or His ability to work on our behalf. When at a later time I read those books, I felt like a black cloud was hanging over me. God was minimized, and "standardized".

So that brings me to the quote from the book I'm reading. Relentless by John Bevere.

"Grace is God's empowering presence that gives us the ability 

to do what we otherwise couldn't do in our own ability."

Such a simple statement, but one that can completely change our way of thinking about living our life.

Most of us think of Grace as God's free gift of salvation. Salvation that He gives us that is not earned or merited, but that is given to every believer in Jesus Christ. That understanding will get you into heaven, but what if the word "Grace" is more than just that one "gift". What if it is a deep well of knowledge and understanding; a place that has limitless possibilities for us in our Christian walk. Who wouldn't want to go to that well each day and dip out the "Grace" needed for what is ahead. The Bible says that Jesus is our "Living Water". He is the embodiment of God the Father's grace to us.

(Google Images)

So today I just want to leave you with this. First of all "PRAY" for God's direction daily. Ask for what He wants to share with you, and be open to act upon those daily revelations. And then just as important, to seek Him in His "fullness", without limiting who He is and what He can accomplish. If we know Jesus Christ as our Savior, there is unlimited favor for us. There is Living Water to refresh us each day. Then, be open, be brave, be expectant.

Acts 4:33 And with great power the apostles were giving witness to the resurrection of the Lord Jesus, and abundant grace was upon them all.

to be continued...

Set Apart?

Last night my younger daughter and I had a "Girl's Night Out". The hubbs and son-in-law were out in the woods deer hunting so that means she and I get to have a night out just the two of us. When we're alone we always end up talking about spiritual things. She is a young woman who has such a close relationship with the Lord. She's had a lot to walk through in her 31 years, and it's brought great insight and love for her Heavenly Father. We covered many subjects but one thing that we discussed was the fact that none of us are currently attending church on a regular basis. OK, I said it. It's just a period of time that is "in between" and not one that I like to advertise because it can bring a lot of "heat". 


I'm all for belonging to a church or fellowship, wherever God leads, and that's the key. "Where God leads..." I'm going to get honest right now so buckle your seat belts as they say, it may be a bumpy ride. Please don't email me any sermons on the importance of church attendance. I know them all and I totally agree. So hopefully you'll just listen to what I'm saying without feeling the need to lecture me, fair enough?

I've been to a lot of churches in my time for one reason or another. I'm not here to discuss them all, I could write a book about all my experiences...good and bad. My point today is to be doing what God is calling you to at this time. I want to be about God's "business", and my prayer is to do what He asks; where and when. Right now, even though I'm totally open and agreeable to be in a church fellowship, we just have not been led to be there. Many reasons why. I'm not fooling myself on this subject. 


Having said all that, these passages in Luke 4 hold a lot of insight and "mystery" for me concerning this subject. 


Luke 4:1 "Jesus, full of the Holy Spirit, returned from the Jordan (after being baptized) and was led by the Spirit in(to) the desert... and Luke 4:14 "Jesus returned to Galilee in the power of the Spirit..."


Sometimes the Holy Spirit leads us in a time of separation. That may mean many things, but it's different with different people. Maybe God is calling us apart for preparation, for emotional healing, for physical reasons, or just to rest and be with Him. The thing I've learned over the years is not to say "Well, God just doesn't DO that". (in my best "Church Lady" voice) Judging how God works in our lives and the lives of others is a no no. God works with people in various ways, many times it's contrary to "popular opinion". So I've learned to "zip it". If I have a question about someone's experience I try to take it to the Lord for clarification instead.


I don't want to lose sight of the point of this post and that is the scripture from Luke. Jesus was "filled with the Spirit" after his baptism, and was led out for a time of separation, but when He returned He came back in the POWER of the Holy Spirit. Time apart, listening to God alone, can result in being empowered by the Holy Spirit.


So if God has you in a time of "separation" or you feel like you're in the wilderness, don't let the devil have a field day making you feel guilty. Isn't that funny, the devil doesn't want us in church, but if God is doing something "different" with us, then the enemy will use "guilt" instead. Just be with God every day. Ask for His leading and guidance. Ask for His plan to become clear and savor every moment you have with Him. Because we never know when things will change in life. Who knows... things might change tomorrow.


love in Jesus,
Debra

Running in the "Grace" Lane

In life we have many races, but none more important than that of our Christian faith and experience. Our race is not TO salvation, but IN salvation. We continuously put one foot in front of the other; sometimes it's a sprint, other times it's a relay, but always a marathon. It starts at our salvation experience and ends when we come face to face with our Heavenly Father. How are we running that race?

Galatians 5:7,18, 25
"You were running a good race. Who cut in on you, and kept you from obeying the truth? That kind of persuasion does not come from the one who calls you...But if you are led by the Spirit you are not under the law...Since we live by the Spirit, let us keep in step with the Spirit."

Our writer of Galatians, Paul, frequently used analogies of physical activities, and as the people of this time were familiar with the Greek culture of athletics and races, they understood what Paul was speaking of.

Philippians 3:12-14
12. Not that I have already obtained [it], or have already become perfect, but I press on in order that I may lay hold of that for which also I was laid hold of by Christ Jesus. 13. Brethren, I do not regard myself as having laid hold of [it] yet; but one thing [I do]: forgetting what [lies] behind and reaching forward to what [lies] ahead, 14. I press on toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus.

So now we understand that this is a race for the believer; one who believes in and personally knows Jesus Christ as their Lord and Savior. Each day we run. We may not seemingly do anything of "spiritual" value or consequence, but each day we are moving forward, hopefully led by the Holy Spirit. Our attitudes, actions, and beliefs are all part of that race.

What happens when we step on a piece of loose gravel, have a leg cramp, or get distracted by someone in the stands? Do we whine and groan, fall over and give up...or do we keep going? Maybe we have to slow down our pace or tend to an injury, but most important, we cannot give up. Are there hurdles that you didn't see to the last minute...someone else who is down and you lend a helping hand to get them back on track?

Maybe you're lacking stamina and you need to run "in tandem" with another runner for awhile to keep up the pace. Life is like a race. It may not be easy. It may be long, and it may be tiring. One thing for sure is that there is reward in the end. Our salvation race does have a finish line, and at the end, the one who hands us the prize and congratulates us is Jesus Himself.


The Galatian Christians were given the Gospel by Paul years before. They were running a good race, but the Judiazers we not only heckling them from the sidelines, they came out onto the field and were blocking their way. The Judiazers were giving them wrong information about their salvation. Sort of like someone standing in the middle of the lanes that directed the runners off course. And if you get off course in a race you can be disqualified. Wrong information can cause us to not only lose momentum it can keep us off balance and cause us to stumble.


If you haven't read the previous posts here from Galatians, why don't you take some time to find the backstory of the Galatians. They had been told that their belief in Jesus Christ as Savior wasn't enough. These were non-Jewish believers that had been hijacked into believing that salvation came through keeping the Jewish laws and customs. Jesus came to bring Freedom and to release us from captivity of the bondage of rules and regulations that the Jews had based their salvation upon.

Galatians 5:1
It is for Freedom that Christ has set us free. Stand firm then, and do not let yourselves be burdened again by a yoke of slavery.

Freedom from condemnation under the Old Testament Law. Freedom to know Jesus personally. Freedom to live our lives to the fullest without fear. Freedom in mind and heart. Freedom in the Spirit, that our spirit may run fast and strong, not giving up; looking ahead and seeing Jesus at the finish line, arms open and smiling wide. Run in the "Grace" lane.

Where are you in the race?


love in Jesus,
Debra

Where Do You Live?

Do you live in the Freedom of God's Grace, or have you found yourself feeling like you're living under the Law? Knowing the difference can totally change your outlook on life and knowing God.

Here...

or here?

Version: NAS
Galatians 2:6-10


6.But from those who were of high reputation (what they were makes no difference to me; God shows no partiality)-- well, those who were of reputation contributed nothing to me. 7. But on the contrary, seeing that I had been entrusted with the gospel to the uncircumcised, just as Peter [had been] to the circumcised 8. (for He who effectually worked for Peter in [his] apostleship to the circumcised effectually worked for me also to the Gentiles), 9. and recognizing the grace that had been given to me, James and Cephas (Peter) and John, who were reputed to be pillars, gave to me and Barnabas the right hand of fellowship, that we [might] [go] to the Gentiles, and they to the circumcised. 10. [They] only [asked] us to remember the poor-- the very thing I also was eager to do.

Lest we ignore the elephant in the room, I guess it's now time to talk about the Covenant of Circumcision. OK, how to handle this with the importance that is due it? Bear with me all you gals, and guys too for that matter, we need to understand the significance of this in the Jewish culture. There are a lot of verses on this subject, but let's look at the two main ones that show the difference between the opinions and beliefs of the Old Testament Law and New Testament Freedom.


Version: NAS
Genesis 17:10-14

10. "This is My covenant, which you shall keep, between Me and you and your descendants after you: every male among you shall be circumcised. 11. "And you shall be circumcised in the flesh of your foreskin; and it shall be the sign of the covenant between Me and you. 12. "And every male among you who is eight days old shall be circumcised throughout your generations, a [servant] who is born in the house or who is bought with money from any foreigner, who is not of your descendants. 13. "A [servant] who is born in your house or who is bought with your money shall surely be circumcised; thus shall My covenant be in your flesh for an everlasting covenant. 14. "But an uncircumcised male who is not circumcised in the flesh of his foreskin, that person shall be cut off from his people; he has broken My covenant."


 
God instituted the Covenant of Circumcision for several reasons I believe. God had set the Hebrew people apart from the rest of the races. He desired that they not marry outside their race, but remain within their own culture. God was and still is, a practical God. He wants us to be careful and wise about our personal health and hygiene. On one level circumcision of the males had to do with health and cleanliness. This practice, that is still used today, kept bacteria and disease to a minimum. In the days of infrequent bathing, there were many things God commanded His people to do that enforced their health. The book of Leviticus focuses on these practices. Amazing that God had them do these things that today we know minimizes sickness and disease, but at the time the people did not fully understand. The practice of Kosher eating that is still used by many Orthodox Jews, is a good example.

Then on another level the entrusting of such an important male body part to the Lord, signifies one's desire for letting God control our actions, our marriage, and to the male, of great importance, the "ego". Turning our bodies over to the Lord is what we all should do: male or female, married or unmarried, celibate or not. This not only goes for our reproductive organs, but our minds, hearts, mouth (talking and speaking), eyes (visually, such as pornography), ears (music and unwholesome talk), and feet (that can take us to some unwholesome and dangerous places).

Version: NASRomans 2:25-29

25. For indeed circumcision is of value, if you practice the Law; but if you are a transgressor of the Law, your circumcision has become uncircumcision. 26. If therefore the uncircumcised man keeps the requirements of the Law, will not his uncircumcision be regarded as circumcision? 27. And will not he who is physically uncircumcised, if he keeps the Law, will he not judge you who though having the letter [of the Law] and circumcision are a transgressor of the Law? 28. For he is not a Jew who is one outwardly; neither is circumcision that which is outward in the flesh. 29. But he is a Jew who is one inwardly; and circumcision is that which is of the heart, by the Spirit, not by the letter; and his praise is not from men, but from God.


So now, back to Galatians Chapter 2. We know that the Judaizers were infiltrating the Gentile Churches and trying to get the new Gentile converts upset and stirred up about circumcision. They were still going by the Old Covenant and were trying to bring this practice to play on formerly Gentile, adult men. So we can see the upset here. If it were a Covenant of Clipping our Fingernails I doubt that it would have caused much of a ruckus, but this is a little different matter, with some scary consequences for these Galatians. I'm sure that many of them were willing to submit to this, but Paul comes on the scene and says no. This was an Old Covenant practice for the Jews. He didn't see the importance or relevance of holding these people hostage to the practice. I'm sure that God spoke to Paul concerning this issue at the time. He's confident of his stance here and gives everyone something to think about when he basically says that being saved is not about what we do on the outside, but the condition of the heart.

There are alot of issues concerning Old Testament thinking transitioning into New Testament thinking. I want to talk about a few others briefly. Celebrating the Feasts, Tithing, Baptism, to name just a few. Jesus said He came not to do away with the Law, but to fulfill it.

Version: NAS

There is a "trend" going on in some of the churches concerning celebrating the Jewish "Feasts" or Holy Days. These are important covenants that we should study and bring into our spiritual life and thinking, but God has not asked us to revert back into Judaism by setting up a tent in our front yard, any more than He REQUIRES us to be circumcised. Some of this has been used as a blatant ploy for money and while it's always wonderful to give to our churches and Christian Networks we cannot let it be held over our heads for a guilt trip if we do not. One such evangelist basically said that if you don't give a particular offering you will be missing out in living in the blessing of God. To that, I put it before the Lord. I'm not one that wants to miss out on ANY blessing that God might desire to give. God basically asked me a question:
"Do you think the blessing and favor is conditional on whether or not you give a certain offering, for a certain amount, on a certain day? Do you not think you walk in my favor now?"

Matthew 5:17


"Do not think that I came to abolish the Law or the Prophets; I did not come to abolish, but to fulfill."

This means the concepts are still the same, but they are not requirements for our salvation, pure and simple. Tithing, celebrating the Jewish Holy Days, and Baptism were instituted in the Old Testament and early New Testament times. They may have been required in the OT, but when Jesus died on the cross, was resurrected, and sat down at the right hand of God, these became guidelines, yes important ones, but not ones on which our salvation hinges.

To that I say do not be cajoled, or dragged, or pressured to walk back under the Law. We keep the Law by the Grace of God, and only that.

Love you all, dear friends,
Debra

Grace vs. Law

In Galatians 2 we see Paul recounting a trip to Jerusalem to meet with Peter once more, and the leaders of the Jerusalem Church; John and James, Jesus' brother. There was trouble being made by a sect that was harassing Paul and the Gentile converts. Let's see what was happening in the Early Church that also has an impact on our faith today.

Version: NAS

Galatians 2:1-5

1. Then after an interval of fourteen years I went up again to Jerusalem with Barnabas, taking Titus along also. 2. And it was because of a revelation that I went up; and I submitted to them the gospel which I preach among the Gentiles, but [I did so] in private to those who were of reputation, for fear that I might be running, or had run, in vain. 3. But not even Titus who was with me, though he was a Greek, was compelled to be circumcised. 4. But [it was] because of the false brethren who had sneaked in to spy out our liberty which we have in Christ Jesus, in order to bring us into bondage. 5. But we did not yield in subjection to them for even an hour, so that the truth of the gospel might remain with you.

 Fourteen years had gone by since Paul had been converted to Christianity on the road to Damascus. God had Paul with Him, teaching and administering the birth of a ministry. Paul had made one visit to Peter in Jerusalem where he stayed 15 days. While there, he met with James, the Lord's brother, but no other disciples. In the interim of these two visits Paul had made several mission trips throughout Greece and Turkey, setting up churches. So now eleven years after the first visit to Jerusalem, Paul receives a revelation from Jesus that he must return. He needs to visit with the church leaders in Jerusalem to discuss a situation that is arising.
 
Paul knew it was time to  have a "sit down" with the leaders of the Church in Jerusalem. A group of "Judaizers" had infiltrated the "Gentile Churches" and were spreading information contrary to the Gospel.What exactly were they doing? These "false brethren" as Paul calls them, were Jews that were trying to convert new Gentile Christians to Judaism. Remember, these Gentiles were Greeks, Syrian, Turkish, etc. they had not been Jewish, and were unfamiliar with Jewish life and custom. They were converted to Christianity without ever having been Jewish.
 
The Early Church in Jerusalem consisted of mostly Jews who had believed in Jesus as their Messiah, as did the original twelve disciples of Jesus. There were some Gentiles that had earlier been converted to Judaism, but by and large the Jerusalem Church consisted of Jewish converts, not Gentile converts.
 
The Judaizers were probably "on the fence" so to speak about Jesus. They saw His value, and may have partially believed in His ministry, but were trying to get new Gentile converts to adhere to the strict Jewish laws and customs. This is where the problem lies. Paul's message was one of grace and liberty through Jesus Christ. The Judaizers were trying to pervert this message and drag these new Christians back under the Law. The Law of Moses and the Ten Commandments and all the Jewish rules and traditions. Christianity is a message of Grace. The Old Testament was about the Law, as that was God's plan to keep His people "uncorrupted". But the New Testament Gospel is all about Jesus who is the "fulfillment" of the law. He perfected the laws and rules of the Old Testament. Salvation through Jesus brings us to a place of freedom through God's Grace; His unmerited love and favor.
 
Paul knew through the Holy Spirit it was time to get this settled once and for all. He needed the endorsement of the Jerusalem leaders to back him and qualify him. Without the agreement of Paul, James, and John the New Church was headed for a split. It was crucial that there be a united front on the ministry of Paul toward the Gentiles. Peter was ministering to the Jewish community, where Paul was ministering to Gentile groups. There aren't two different Gospels, but one. In the beginning of Jesus' Ministry He focused on the Jewish people. After all, Jesus is the Messiah. The savior of the Jewish people. Up until Jesus came on the scene, there was not much thought of converting the masses. The Jews were a people "set apart" for God, His chosen people. But the Bible clearly states that once the Jewish people and leadership rejected Jesus as the Messiah, that He opened the doors for all mankind to be saved..."whoever" as in John 3:16.
 
This is where this information and these scriptures come into play for us today. Christianity is not a religion of Do's and Don'ts. I think we have all been caught up in this at one time or another. The Church today sometimes gets the reputation as being the arbitrator on our social life, AND our spiritual life. I know when I was young, you COULDN'T dance, play cards, have a drink, say a cuss word, etc. If any of these things happened and you got "found out", good grief, you were in danger of being an outcast or at the least gossiped about. I'll talk about this more later. But today I want to make the point that Jesus is not negative, but positive. We do things in our lives, in all areas; social, job related, family related, and spiritually related because we want to do things Jesus' way. He's not condemning or harsh. He wants us to follow Him in our lifestyles because it's best for us, but He's not standing there with a big stick to beat us over the head with it, if we aren't living a "perfect lifestyle". How many people have been "rejected" by our churches? Jesus stands at the door and grieves for those who have felt left out, turned away, and judged.
 
So if you aren't perfect, join me in realizing that God is positive, forward thinking and not one to bruise or hurt us. He wants to take us in His arms, love on us, direct us, encourage us, but not punish us. We have the Freedom in Christ to make mistakes, then listen to His Word and counsel. He's for us, not against us. Amen!
 
love, in Jesus,
Debra

Who do we please?

What a mouthful Paul spoke when he asked the question "Am I now trying to win the approval of men, or of God?" How do we know if our motives are God-centered or man-centered? Knowing the difference can make a huge impact on our everyday life and the ultimate fulfillment of our purpose.

Version: NAS

Galatians 1:10
For am I now seeking the favor of men, or of God? Or am I striving to please men? If I were still trying to please men, I would not be a bond-servant of Christ.

One of the main concepts of this verse, other than who we are seeking approval from, is the idea of the term "bond-servant". This has more of the concept of a person who is "indebted" or "obliged" to someone else, and not so much as "ownership" by someone else. In Bible times people might have a debt of property that needed to be paid off and so they would contract themselves to another for a period of time to pay off that debt. In today's ideas many of us would be bond-servants of the mortgage company, Sears, and Macy's. (Just a little humor here!) But in those days, not only were you indebted, but it was a personal relationship and often one with gratitude and affinity attached.

So do we stop and examine our motive in situations and relationships?. Are we God-Pleasers or Man-Pleasers? How often do we take something on because we have a need for approval of other people? I know I've been guilty of this, as most of us have been at one time or another. I really care about other people's opinion of me, sometimes more than I should. As I've matured and gotten older I've learned the value of balancing this need. If we are always doing things for the approval of others we can soon find ourselves hurt and disappointed... and exhausted.

Taking things to God in prayer has really helped me sort out a lot of this. Knowing what God's will is and His plan can save us a lot of confusion. I've mentioned this before, but it's a key in my life. Don't do things on a whim; ask for God's approval and direction.

In Paul's case, before his conversion to Christianity on the road to Damascus to kill and imprison believers, he truly felt he was doing "God's will". Unfortunately he was wrong. What may appear as the right thing to do, our sincerity, and enthusiasm, aren't always good indicators of the will of God. Neither are they an indicator of God's approval. As a Jew, and a Pharisee, highly educated and wealthy, Paul was gung-ho on putting an end to all these traitors to the Jewish faith. It was his personal mission to get rid of and/or persecute as many of these "Christians" as he possibly could. Paul was gaining the approval of the Jewish councils and higher-ups. He was a young man on the rise and making a pretty big name for himself. You want to get rid of some pesky Christians? Who ya gonna call? Paul, known at that time, as Saul. He was at the stoning of Stephen and and in full approval of that dreadful decision. Acts 7:54-8:3

When God first called me, He had me "out-there" in the founding of a church start. It wasn't particularly easy being a woman in the landscape of ministry in the denomination I was in. Let's face it, it was like walking on eggshells of ego, the buddy system, and the "traditions of men". The dominant word here being "men". There was a phrase jokingly put, that coming to the alter to pray or confess, was the closest any woman would ever get to the pulpit. Sad but true.

They all liked what God was saying through me as long as it wasn't rocking their boat. I could keep my spot in the semi inner circle of this small church start, as long as I agreed with everything they said and did. In the natural I wanted to be accepted because I knew God was moving mightily in the midst of our congregation and He had some powerful things to do there. What initially had started out completely Spirit-led soon disintegrated into the man-made rule book way of doing things.

Well, I guess you can catch my drift. No matter how much I wanted to stay in good standing with the "group" there, God was asking me to stay true to Him; not any one person or denominational "handbook". I didn't last long there as I couldn't go along with it, so my husband and I excused ourselves.


Version: RSV

2 Corinthians 5:9-10
9. So whether we are at home or away, we make it our aim to please him.(God) 10. For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ, so that each one may receive good or evil, according to what he has done in the body.

God has a way of asking us to do things at times that goes against the grain of "mainstream" religion. He's not particularly worried about what others might think of us. I'm not talking about rudeness, or craziness, or "show-offy-ness". (my own word here). I'm talking about following the Holy Spirit in our words and actions. Being true to what God is asking and saying, and not bowing down to pressure...not following the crowd to gain the approval of others. Ultimately, on Judgement Day, we will have to give an account of what we have done here on Earth; good or bad, lasting or inconsequential, God directed or man directed.
God once showed me a little mental picture (a small vision, if you will) of the "reserved seating" pews that we find in many church sanctuaries. It's usually up close to the front, to one side, for visiting speakers or clergy. He said to me, "This is where they want me to sit."  They didn't want Him to be front and center; in charge of the service, but just to take His place to sit and not say anything until called upon. Just visiting.

I don't know about you, but I don't want Jesus to be in the "just visiting section" in my life. I want Him fully in charge, directing my life, and in control. And to get that I need to be a bond-servant. Grateful and indebted to Jesus for my salvation AND my life.

Seeking God's approval over man's. You'll never be able to please everyone, so better to just try and please God. He'll let you know if you just ask.

love, in Jesus,
Debra

Pursuing God

I imagine you've noticed that I haven't been posting as much lately. Hard to miss. There have been some projects that God has put in front of me. Not all outwardly seemingly God sent, but yet I know they have been. Starting blogs for a few of my business friends, taking a trip to see our kids, doing some much needed projects around the homestead, and then let us not forget, aging parents that seem to be needing more attention and time.

Just like you, I live in the real world of fixing dinner, doing laundry, housework, and needing to be productive in daily life. Sometimes I haven't felt very "productive" in the real world, so when I get a fresh breath of energy and momentum I try and "run with it". But in doing so, I don't want to neglect this special place that God has given me to communicate with you all out there. (If I haven't checked in with you lately it's not because I haven't thought of you all.)

I'd be misrepresenting myself to say that I'm praying 24/7, reading the Bible for hours a day, or going to church 7 days a week. I've been there, and yes, there are "seasons" for that. For extended periods of time I've been in relentless pursuit of God, but just as in normal earthly relationships, there are also times of "comfort" and constancy, and contentment. That's not the same as backsliding, or losing touch, or lack of commitment.

Just saying that today, after knowing it was time to do another post, God sort of corralled me from my projects. He sat me down and gave me a scripture to look up. Sometimes He speaks a scripture verse to me, book, chapter, and verse. Most of the time I'm not familiar with it off the top of my head. Today He said to me "Mark, third chapter, 10th verse."

Version: NAS

Mark 3:10
"...for He had healed many, with the result that all those who had afflictions pressed about Him in order to touch Him."

Seems as though I've not been "pressing in about Him" as much lately. I've been trying to adjust myself to the fact that I have some health issues and that I'm still on meds and it all restricts me. Even though from reading my other blog, you might think I was a whirlwind of energy, truth is I'm not. Some days are good, others not so much.

I'm trusting God for my life and health, but some days I just try to put it aside and keep doing "life". Positive thinking is not an effort for me. It's always been preferable to the alternative, and besides God isn't into "woe is me". That's not faith, nor is it a godly testimony.

I guess my thought that I'm getting today is to not lose the "pressing in"  anointing that God bestows upon us. He puts it there for a purpose. It's to accomplish His purpose for us. Right now I don't want to lose track of the momentum that God has for me, here at this Bible Study, or for life in general. I don't want to be complacent, or lackluster in whatever it is God is calling me to do.

And you know something really funny (as in strange)? When I opened my Bible to Mark 3:10, not only was it underlined, but dated "5/19/04"; a year after my heart surgery. And exactly 6 years ago today. Who says God isn't "timely" and aware of our exact need?

It's been a long seven years, but I'm still here and I'm still Pursuing Him. Most of the times that Jesus healed it was when someone "pursued" Him. The blind man, the leper, the woman with the issue of blood, the centurion, the synagogue leader with the sick daughter; many many more, God saw their dedication and drive for Him; their faith and action, their desire to stay in the race. I want to be one of those people of faith. Not complacent, but in pursuit.

If you have never read "The God Chasers" by Tommy Tenney, I highly recommend it. It will get you out of your rut and make you put on your shoes.

love in Jesus,

Debra

You're Not What You "Feel"

Last post we talked a little about our values and our personal goals as indicated by these eight areas...our finding "success, significance, fulfillment, satisfaction, happiness, fun, security and peace". 

 
We discussed how our belief system could "be off a few degrees" and it not matter alot in the beginning of our Christian walk, but the further we go in life and maturity, then the more critical it becomes that we believe the Truth of God's Word and let it affect our personal goals, decisions, emotions, and our life in general.

In the past I've used the phrase "in the natural". To me this means how we all think, myself included, as a "natural human being"...i.e. our natural man's way of thinking; thinking as someone who is not impacted by God or the Bible. As Christians, it's so important to let The Holy Spirit direct our thinking, because our "thinking" then acts as a chain reaction to determine our attitudes, actions, decisions and life.

I know many Christian people who love God, but have a hard time letting Him direct their thinking. They are slaves to their Natural Man's emotions. Many times they think, act, and then behave just like a person that doesn't know Jesus Christ. We all have lapses at times...we think or say or behave in ways that are not Godly. But hopefully, eventually, the Holy Spirit convicts us of these attitudes and behavior so that we can repent and ask God to help us not continue in what we have given in to.

One huge thing I've learned in my life is that the answers to these questions, "in the natural", seem to change at different stages of our lives. What my answers would have been at 18, 28, 42, 50, and now are all different. Just as God directs our lives, so He leads and maneuvers us on our paths.

I told you last post that I would honestly evaluate the eight areas of my life, and then share them with you. First I will tell you how I would answer the questions "in the natural", then I will tell you how I would, and do, answer these questions as a woman who loves the Lord and desires that He be in control of my thinking and life. Hope you took the time to look at these eight areas honestly and prayerfully, then let God show you how to let Him affect your thinking.

1. How successful am I? I would be more successful if...

Honestly, I'm 57 years old and at times I feel like I've missed the boat. Eleven or so years ago God put a heavy call on my life for ministry. I haven't talked about it alot, but at that time, (and still) it was in the area of healing, both physical and emotional. He called me to a prayer and teaching ministry and instilled in me a great passion to teach about prayer and to pray for the sick. He gifted me with a few powerful Spiritual Gifts in the area of Faith, the Prophetic, and hearing His voice. My life radically changed. I had been a lazy Christian for years, but over a period of about a year, I had been thrown headfirst into a powerful relationship with the Holy Spirit.

He consumed me and my life...in the best way. There were times when I would pray for people and God would meet them in a powerful way. Healings would happen, prayers would be miraculously answered; He would give me information and words of knowledge that impacted people and their physical health... and I was in profound awe of what was going on.

Fast forward these last 10 years. I am the one walking by faith for healing of a severe case of hereditary cardiovascular disease. I've been close to death several times, and seemingly on the outside looking in, I appear to have "missed it". Yet I know I have not. I may not be doing what I thought I would be doing 10 years ago, which would be having a  public "ministry", but yet I am doing exactly what He has led me to do. This Bible Study.

So if I would let my "natural thinking" affect how I feel I would feel like a complete failure.

2. How significant do I feel?

Well, I know I am loved by my husband and children and family. A few close friends are causing me to feel better about who I am and what I'm doing, but if I was looking through the world's eyes I would have to say that little 'ole me just isn't very significant. But the Truth of God's Word says if I had nothing, absolutely nothing or no one, I would still be significant in God's Eyes. Thank you, Lord!

3. How fulfilled am I?

There are times when I feel extremely unfulfilled, like I am missing my calling in life. Yet I know that if I wake up everyday and give my life to Jesus, that I will be doing what He wants me to be doing. Thinking about it that way, I need to be "fulfilled" and content with Jesus and what He is asking me to do at this moment in time, not worrying or planning or trying to figure out some other scenario for my life.

4. How satisfied am I?

Ditto for the last answer. I want to be satisfied with what God gives me daily to do. If that's cleaning house, working on my antique space, meeting and talking to people, being a good wife, mother, and friend, then that's what I want to be satisfied with. He puts people in my path that I can pray for and find relationship with. He gives me great satisfaction in the small things in life. My husband and girls mean everything to me. I used to be constantly striving for what was coming next. I'm not that way so much any more. My personal walk with God is the most important aspect of my life.

5. How happy am I?

6. How much fun am I having?

7. How secure am I?

8. How peaceful am I?

Happiness, fun, security, peace...? Just like the other answers, they can all be affected by circumstances, mood, how I'm feeling physically that day...a variety of other things, but my answer is always the same. Put God first and don't let anything else get between me and Him. If I do that, and take time to pray and listen each day it all comes down to the same elemental answer. Jesus is my priority. He is my Rock. He is my Hope and Answer. If it weren't for Him I wouldn't be here right now. I know that. And because of that, He leads, I follow, and I try not to let "feelings" own me. I look to Him for my understanding and I ask Him to "adjust" my feeling and emotions to His way of thinking, not mine. Much better that way. He has a way of putting it all into His perspective.

If you haven't yet had that one on one time with God concerning these eight areas of your life, think about my answers and then give Him time to speak to your heart. I guarantee that what God has to say can change your outlook on life, circumstances, and your future.

Love in Jesus,

Debra

Finding Our Way With Personal Values

Think about standing at the front of your drive way. The target is the front door. Now cover your eyes and start walking. We're assuming there are no stairs, large trees, or other big obstacles, we're just walking... heading for our door. We are walking straight, staying on course. We have seen the goal and we are purposing to walk a straight path. OK, done? Now take off your blindfold. How close are you to the door? Are you close?...right there?...5 feet off? worse?...are you still even in your own yard?

                                                 

                                          

Now let's think of this illustration when it comes to our own life and belief system. When we are young it takes a while to form our belief system. Being a "little off" isn't that bad. Hopefully we've grown up in a Bible believing church and home, that makes it a little easier. Some of us have been blessed with this, others of us have not. But still, we sometimes can get off track and not even know that we are. Focusing on Jesus and having a good grasp of the Word of God are essential in our having a correct value and personal belief system. We've all heard the saying about climbing the ladder of success, to only get to the top and find we're against the wrong building!

The older and more mature we get it is critical that we are not "walking blind", in our lives. We need to know the Truth of God's Word and let that be a beacon for us to walk in. The light of God's Word, will keep us on track and on course in life. We don't want to let misinformation and unbelief sidetrack us or cause us to miss what God has for us.

We each have our own set of values. Being a Christian, our love of God and our relationship with Him should be above everything else. Sadly many Christians are not there. We may think that we are, but a lot of the time, children, a spouse, personal goals etc. can take over the top spot. It's really easy to let all those things crowd out our holding God above it all.

Exodus 20:3-4

3. "You shall have no other gods before Me.
4. "You shall not make for yourself an idol, or any likeness of what is in heaven above or on the earth beneath or in the water under the earth.

The 10 Commandments are proof of the importance of putting God first. First off, there are no other "gods"; this word is referring to anything or anyone of earthly importance that takes first place in our lives. We're not talking about Hindu, Islam or any other religion or ideology. There is no other God than "Jehovah".

The second commandment is not just referring to "idols" in the form of little metal or wooden statues. This means there should be nothing that stands between you and Father God, Jesus, and the Holy Spirit. Anything is an "idol" that takes first place in our lives besides God.

Example, I've seen people so into sports that it became an idol. How about shopping? Does the concept make you lose control and put yourself in a place of financial jeopardy? Any addiction, from shopping, drinking, smoking, lust, drugs, to "keeping up with the Joneses" can become an "idol". Pretty scary thought, huh? 

How about our kids. Does seeing them win, or get recognition take precedence over what is godly and right? What about trying to please our spouse or even friends? Do we overstep proper personal boundaries to get attention or importance in their eyes? I'm bringing this up, because if anything or anyone, including ourselves is numero uno in our lives, our whole belief system and set of values will be skewed.

Below is a "Personal Worth Appraisal". Please take a look at it. Make a copy or write it down. Now, be honest in your answers. I'm going to ask you to really read, think and pray about this. We'll have a few days. Take the personal challenge in this. Some of you took me up on the "Faith Challenge" I extended a week or so ago. So let's do the same with this. Don't just use the number system. Write down your thoughts on the individual topics. Why and what are the reasons and circumstances that you are unhappy, dissatisfied, feeling unsuccessful, etc. Let it get inside your head and heart.

I think if you're honest you'll be surprised at how you really feel and what God will show you if you take this little quiz. I'll give you my honest answers and discuss them on the next post.

Success, significance, fulfillment, satisfaction, happiness,

fun, security, peace.

How do all these areas in our personal life line up with God's Word,

and His perfect will for our lives?

Remember, we're being really honest.

 You don't have to share if you don't want, so keep it real!

If you'd like to leave a comment on this idea,

 we'd all love to hear it.

Next time, you will be hearing all my personal stuff concerning this.

love, in Jesus,

Debra

(personal worth appraisal taken from

Victory Over the Darkness)

What Happens When We Stumble in Our Walk of Faith?

Have you felt as if you were living on the edge of God's patience with you? That you were at two strikes, and felt another one on the way? So many of us have stumbled in our Faith Walk that we feel like God must truly be so tired of us that he's ready to walk away and be done with us...but that is just not true.

"The primary truth you need to know about God in order for your faith to remain strong is that His love and acceptance is unconditional. When your walk of faith is strong, God loves you. When your walk of faith is weak, God loves you. When you're strong one moment and weak the next, God loves you. God's love for us is the great eternal constant in the midst of all the inconsistencies of our daily walk."

1 John 2:1-2
1. My little children, I am writing these things to you that you may not sin. And if anyone sins, we have an Advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ the righteous; 2. and He Himself is the propitiation for our sins; and not for ours only, but also for [those of] the whole world.

We can think of this scripture as in a courtroom setting. We are the defendant. Thing is, we are guilty as charged. Jesus is our advocate, like an attorney pleading our case before "the Judge". He is in constant intercession for us before the throne of God. Now, I used to feel uncomfortable with this scenario; like Jesus was always having to talk God into forgiveness. But it's more like Jesus is our constant "defense". Because He is there, we are made right before our Heavenly Father when we sin. So for me it is pretty constant. I would be before the bench a lot.


Hebrews 7:25
Hence, also, He is able to save forever those who draw near to God through Him, since He always lives to make intercession for them.


We know that God desires that we strive to do the right thing; to not be in a place of constant sin. He helps us, leads and directs us, but He also knows that we are human and that we fail. I cannot count the times daily that I would re-do a decision or action or word out of my mouth. Some of us do a better job than others, but we all stumble. And maybe it's not the little things everyday, maybe it's some big hurdles we fall over.

I've had some big hurdles where I just fell flat on my face. I would be going along just fine and then before I knew it my life was a mess and I was feeling like God had abandoned me. My life may have been a mess, but God in no way abandoned me. Our adversary, the devil, does what he can to get us out of the will and fellowship of God. He takes advantage of our weaknesses and plays upon them. Then when he gets us in the place of sin, he bombards us with the notion that God is done with us...over...finito.


Romans 8:26-27,34
26. And in the same way the Spirit also helps our weakness; for we do not know how to pray as we should, but the Spirit Himself intercedes for [us] with groanings too deep for words;
27. and He who searches the hearts knows what the mind of the Spirit is, because He intercedes for the saints according to [the will of] God.
34. who is the one who condemns? Christ Jesus is He who died, yes, rather who was raised, who is at the right hand of God, who also intercedes for us.

Jesus is our "intercessor". He's always there guiding, helping, watching out for our interests.


Romans 5:8
 But God demonstrates His own love toward us, in that while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us.

"While we were yet sinners, Christ died for us", so if He knew and loved us before we knew and loved Him, would He not still love us, no matter if we stumble? The important thing to remember, is if we stumble (when we stumble), don't lay down and call it quits. Get back up and keep moving forward.

Jesus always tells us to move forward. Don't give in to looking at the past. Don't wallow in regrets and past mistakes. We all have them. We can find ourselves in a place of paralysis if we aren't careful; frozen, fearful and unable to get up and get moving. If you are struggling with past mistakes and sin, ask God to show you how to receive forgiveness and then let it go. He wants us to not repeat our mistakes over and over, Jesus wants to walk you through the admission of our sins, but then He asks us to let them go. He says he forgets and removes them from His "memory". He expects us to let them go also.


Psalm 103:11-13
11. For as high as the heavens are above the earth, So great is His lovingkindness toward those who fear Him. 12. As far as the east is from the west, So far has He removed our transgressions from us. 13. Just as a father has compassion on [his] children, So the LORD has compassion on those who fear Him.

Romans 8:1
There is therefore now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus.
 No condemnation, only love and acceptance. Jesus  still loves us and calls us back to His fellowship and open loving arms.

Love, In Jesus,

Debra

quotes and concepts taken from

Victory Over the Darkness

by Neil Anderson

20 Cans of Success

The world knows that there is power in positive thinking. Countless books and infomercials are testimony to that concept. Yet as believers in Jesus Christ, we can move beyond that doorway and walk into the Truth of God's Word.

Below are twenty scriptures that emphasize what we can do in the strength and power of the Holy Spirit. The following list was compiled by the author of Victory Over the Darkness, Neil Anderson. 

"Someone once said that success comes in "cans", and failure in "cannots". Believing that we can succeed at our Christian growth and maturity takes no more effort than believing that we cannot. So why not believe that we can walk in faith and in the power of the Holy Spirit. Let's believe that we can resist the temptations of the world, and that we can grow into maturity as a Christian.

The following 20 Cans of Success, taken from God's Word, will expand your knowledge of our faith-object, the Almighty God."

Twenty Cans Of Success

By: Neil Anderson

1. Why should I say I can't when the Bible says, I can do all things through Christ who gives me strength (Philippians 4:13)?


2. Why should I lack when I know that, God shall supply all my needs according to His riches in glory in Christ Jesus (Philippians 4:19)?


3. Why should I fear when the Bible says, God has not given me a spirit of fear, but of power, love and a sound mind (2 Timothy 1:7)?


4. Why should I lack faith to fulfill my calling knowing that, God as allotted to me a measure of faith (Romans 12:3)?


5. Why should I be weak when the Bible says that, the Lord is the strength of my life and that I will display strength and take action because I know God (Psalm 27:1; Daniel 11:32)?


6. Why should I allow Satan supremacy over my life when, He that is in me is greater than he that is in the world (1 John 4:4)?


7. Why should I accept defeat when the Bible says that, God always leads me in triumph
(2 Corinthians 2:14)?


8. Why should I lack wisdom when, Christ became wisdom to me from God and God gives wisdom to me generously when I ask Him for it (1 Corinthians 1:30; James 1:5)?


9. Why should I be depressed when, I can recall to mind God's lovingkindness, compassion, and faithfulness and have hope (Lamentations 3:21-23)?


10. Why should I worry and fret when, I can cast all my anxiety on Christ who cares for me (1 Peter 5:7)?

11. Why should I ever be in bondage knowing that, there is liberty where the Spirit of the Lord is  (2 Corinthians 3:17)?


12. Why should I feel condemned when, the Bible says I am not condemned because I am in Christ (Romans 8:1)?


13. Why should I feel alone when, Jesus said He is with me always and He will never leave me nor forsake me (Matthew 28:20; Hebrews 13:5)?

14. Why should I feel accursed or that I am the victim of bad luck when, the Bible says that Christ redeemed me from the curse of the law that I might receive His Spirit (Galatians 3:13-14)?


15. Why should I be discontented when I, like Paul, can learn to be content in all my circumstances (Philippians 4:11)?


16. Why should I feel worthless when, Christ became sin on my behalf that I might become the righteousness of God in Him (2 Corinthians 5:21)?

17. Why should I have a persecution complex knowing that, nobody can be against me when God is for me (Romans 8:31)?


18. Why should I be confused when, God is the author of peace and He gives me knowledge through His indwelling Spirit (1 Corinthians 14:33; 2:12)?

19. Why should I feel like a failure when, I am a conqueror in all things through Christ (Romans 8:37)?


20. Why should I let the pressures of life bother me when, I can take courage knowing that Jesus has overcome the world and its tribulations (John 16:33)?



As you read these verses let God point out to you which ones He is speaking to you personally about. Look up the scripture and let Him fix it in your heart.

Click here to find the link so that you may copy them to keep personally. When I found these I was in deep depression, and reading these scriptures over and over gave me great confidence in God's Power and His great love for me. Even better to read them out loud, so that they go into our ears and our heart. I hope that you will find them equally as comforting.

My husband's mom is fighting a battle right now that is critical to her survival. About 4 weeks ago she made the long overdue decision with her sons, to have her husband of over 65 years placed in a facility for Alzheimer's patients. She is overwhelmed with grief and loneliness. We are stressing with her in deep compassion, to speak out the affirmative of God's Word. She is in a place where that is difficult for her to do. It grieves us, because we know the importance of giving each and every situation over to God. Our mindset and frame of reference can make all the difference in whether we can move forward in life, or if we give in, and succumb to the trials and emotions of whatever hurdles we face.

A while back I did a post on Praying God's Word, If you haven't read it, then you might like a little more in depth look on why this concept is such a blessing and help.

love, in Jesus,

Debra

quotes and concepts taken from

Victory Over the Darkness,

by Neil Anderson.