In times like these...

"Seven times a day I praise You, because of Your righteous judgements. Great peace have those who love Your law, and nothing can make them stumble." Psalm 119:164&165 NKJV

So much is going on in our world right now.  As I write we are on recommended social isolation in an attempt to stem the spread of the coronavirus. People are responding in vastly different ways. Some with fear and paranoia, others with a cavalier attitude that they are somehow invincible. Some are responding in deep faith, while others are alarmed and uncertain. Some are adjusting well to the isolation, while others are beginning to feel stir crazy.

Every person reacts to situations differently.

Where do we find peace in the midst of chaos?

I love the sentiment of the Psalmist in verse 165 of Psalm 119. "Great peace have those who love Your law, and nothing can make them stumble." It is what I strive towards. To have great peace, no matter what is going on around me is not only admirable, but desired. Reality is, there are times I struggle to retain the peace that's been so freely supplied. My humanity gets in the way and I get distracted from what is really important. Add in a sense of loss of control over circumstances, and before you know it, I've wandered off the well established path towards peace into the brambles of fear and discontent.

How does one maintain a peaceful spirit?

The Psalmist explains in verse 164; "Seven times a day I praise You, because of Your righteous judgements". It begins with making a habit of praise and continues as I recall God's faithfulness and His righteousness. When I keep my focus fixed on Him, peace remains.

It is a story that is repeated throughout the Scriptures.

One of my other favorite accounts of the importance of a right focus is told in Matthew 14:13-32.
Jesus had just miraculously fed a crowd of 5000 with five loaves of bread and two fish, and then made His disciples get into the boat to go before Him to the other side of the sea. He went to the mountain by Himself to pray.  When the disciples were about halfway across the water, the wind was contrary and the sea was tossing their boat.  I imagine it wasn't a particularly safe feeling. And then when the disciples were feeling the strain from the storm, suddenly they spotted Jesus walking towards them on the sea. To quote from verse 26 "And when the disciples saw Him walking on the sea, they were  troubled, saying, "It is a ghost!' And they cried out for fear." (emphasis added)

I think I might have been a bit frightened as well.

Ah, but then "immediately Jesus spoke to them, saying "Be of good cheer! It is I; do not be afraid." (vs 27 emphasis added)

And then Peter, being Peter, brash, forthright, self-assured, a "take command sort of guy" addressed the situation by saying "If it is You, command me to come to You on the water."  (verse 28 emphasis added).

I kind of like that.  OK LORD, if this is You, tell me to do something that would otherwise be impossible.

"So He said, "Come."  (verse 29a)

Peter got His answer, and came down out of the boat and began walking on water towards Jesus.

Wow! Can you imagine?  He asked for something, was granted what he asked, and was then beginning to do what he desired.

But then; "when he saw that the wind was boisterous, he was afraid; and beginning to sink cried out, saying. 'Lord, save me!" (verse 28 emphasis added)

I don't know about you, but there's a part of me that is momentarily disappointed by Peter's falter, that is until I see my own faith falter. 

Yet the best of the account is still ahead.  Peter had reached out in faith, taken steps towards Jesus, got distracted by the circumstances, began to sink, and cried out for rescue.

"And immediately Jesus stretched out His hand and caught Him, and said to Him, "O you of little faith, why did you doubt?" And when they got into the boat, the wind ceased. (verses 31&32 emphasis added).

Such a beautiful reminder of our Lord's faithfulness and love. He continued to demonstrate His power over the elements of the world, not only by walking on water Himself, but empowering Peter to do the same. When fear momentarily distracted Peter, Jesus didn't leave Him to drown, but immediately rescued him when He cried out for help.

Peter was doing great as long as he kept his eyes on the Lord.

There's a theme here. "Seven times a day I praise You, because of Your righteous judgements. Great peace have those who love Your law and nothing can make them stumble." "Be of good cheer! It is I; do not be afraid."  (Psalm 1119:164&165, Matthew 14:28)

I am not a Bible scholar, but I do see a correlation between our focus in praising God, and being able to trust Him no matter what. I don't know about you, but I quickly "sink" in the sea of doubt whenever I allow circumstances in life to distract me from the glories of God's amazing grace and the love which He lavishly provides for all who are willing to receive it. When I cry out for rescue and refocus my attention on the face of the One Who loves me best, immediately He saves me and great peace washes over my soul.

These are crazy times we're experiencing right now and it's easy to get distracted by them. I encourage all to put on the full armor of God (Ephesians 6:14-18), to "...warn those who are unruly, comfort the fainthearted, uphold the weak, be patient with all. See that no one renders evil for evil to anyone, but always pursue what is good both for yourselves and for all. Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, in everything give thanks for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you. Do not quench the Spirit. Do not despise prophecies. Test all things; hold fast to what is good. Abstain from every form of evil." 1 Thessalonians 5:14-22

Above all, keep your eyes on Jesus.
He is the only One who can save us.

To Him be the glory and honor now and forevermore.

Living joyfully in an angry world

"As the Father loved Me, I also have loved you; abide in My love. If you keep My commandments you will abide in my love, just as I have kept My Father's commandments and abide in His love. These things I have spoken to you, that My joy may remain in you, and that your joy may be full."

~Jesus speaking in John 15:7-11

Have you noticed how angry people seem to be in this world lately?

Everywhere you look someone has gone off on an angry rant or hate filled behavior, leaving very few "safe spaces".  I am appalled at what I see, but even worse, how it negatively affects my life. Jesus told us that in this world we will have tribulation. But He also said we can have peace in Him, because He has overcome the world. "These things I have spoken to you, that in Me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation; but be of good cheer, I have overcome the world." John 16:33

To which I reply a hearty Hallelujah!!

Without the saving grace of Jesus Christ I would be right in the mix of the angry, hateful, spiteful, and mean spirited. I know my own struggle with fleshly responses. But praise the Lord, God has gifted me, and every believer, with the power of the Holy Spirit to call upon while living in this sin filled world. Do I have 100% success in always doing so? Sadly no, but God's grace allows me to correct my mistakes and move forward.

His grace.  His work.  The power of the Holy Spirit doing what I can't; what none of us can.

"For by grace you have been saved, through faith, and that not of yourselves; it is the gift of God, not of works, lest anyone should boast." Ephesians 2:8&9

It's easy to get frustrated when things don't go as we think they should. It's true in our walk as Christians as well. How often have we tried within our own strength to "do what's right" only to fail miserably? Of course feeling like we've failed is never a good feeling. The tendency is to shift our focus off our own failures and begin to carefully inspect the lives of others. How quickly we are able to find fault, and ease our own disappointment in self, by pointing out the flaw in another.

But it doesn't satisfy, nor does it bring peace or joy.

So the cycle of frustration of trying hard, failing, looking for someone else to blame continues as it has from the beginning of creation.

Oh what a wretched, hopeless lot we are.  We know we're failures, but don't want to be, and yet rage against the very One Who can grant us victory.

Yet He continues to call us to the victory that we cannot obtain in our own strength. "Come to Me, all you who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For My yoke is easy and My burden is light." ~Jesus speaking in Matthew 11:28-30

And isn't that what we are truly striving towards, a place where we can rest?

As I was preparing to write this, there were several thoughts for the title; Living hopeful in a hopeless world, and the one I've chosen were the top contenders. The whole purpose of writing this is to encourage and exhort those who know Jesus as Lord and Savior, and perhaps, just maybe, help someone who doesn't know Him personally to desire a personal relationship with Him.

Because knowing Him personally is the only way to know true joy, peace and to have hope in this angry world.

This world is a temporary dwelling place. Living here joyfully is a choice, but it takes allowing God to do His work through us, depending fully on Christ's finished work, and the power of the Holy Spirit dwelling in us.

Then, and only then, will we have the victory that we strive towards and the rest we desire.

May God receive all the glory.
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"But sanctify the Lord God in your hearts and always be ready to give a defense to everyone who asks you a reason for the hope that is in you..." 
1 Peter 3:15

Redeeming the time for the days are evil

As I often do when I need to get centered, I sat at the piano this morning praying while I played. Words from hymns learned as a child are comforting in the midst of the chaos of this world.  The shocking and disrespectful actions of Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi tearing up her copy of the state of the Union address by President Trump, left a deep rumble in my spirit and I needed to get my heart right before I proceeded with the remainder of my day.

The first song in my head was an older hymn, Jesus is Lord of All. Although I knew the tune and most of the words, I wanted to see them while I played. After locating and playing it, I moved through the hymnal, each song producing a deeper peace.  As I prayed for my heart and a right attitude, my eyes were drawn to the picture that sits on top of the piano. It depicts the cross heading towards heaven, making a way out of the flames of destruction.

Immediately the words of Jesus flooded my mind. "Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they do." (Luke 23:34) Hearing them, I chose to follow His example and in the same moment, deep compassion for those who are lost once again filled my heart.

God alone knows the eternal state of each one of us, because He alone knows our hearts.

In the moments following the state of the Union address and watching the struggle between two opposing sides, many hearts were exposed....mine included.  It's easy to cast blame in moments like these, and of course, that is exactly what the enemy of our souls wants to happen, After all, he comes only to steal, kill and destroy. (John 10:10a)

Scripture states clearly in Mark 3:25 "If a house is divided against itself, that house cannot stand." And our nation is pretty divided right now. Last night's display was just another sad example, and that concerns me for the future for my grandchildren.

But within the struggle is also clear evidence of God playing out His plan, reminding me of His mercy and encouraging me to pray for those who haven't found peace at His feet.

The Day of Jesus's return to earth draw ever closer. The enemy knows his time is short and he will continue to create havoc, seeking to steal, kill and destroy.  Oh the victory in the other half of the verse from John 10:10.  Jesus proclaiming His victory "But I have come that you may have life and " life more abundantly." (NKJV)

This place in the journey is temporary. Eternity sits on the horizon, and the King of kings and Lord of lord waits patiently for His Father's command.

We must busy ourselves with the work as well. Jesus has given clear direction in the great commission. "Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age." (Matthew 28:19-20 NIV)

Taking my cue from the One Who loves me best,  I will choose forgiveness, I will offer grace, and I will pray that the eyes of the deceived will be made clear so that they can see the way out of deception.

May God's grace abound

Joy in the journey

"For light is our affliction, which is but for a moment, is working for us a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory." 2 Corinthians 4:17

I was stuck, and I knew it.

S-striving
T-to
U-uncover
C-crisises that are
K-killing me.

The moment I began looking around rather than dealing with the problem at hand was the indicator. I had become very interested in the flaws of others and wanted to pick at the specks I saw in their eyes, rather than dealing with the beam in my own. Restless as a cat in a cage, I paced back and forth trying to ignore the truth gnawing at my soul.  God, in His graciousness, wouldn't allow me to escape, but gently herded me to the place where He helped me sort through the things that were causing me anguish.

It's a difficult truth to acknowledge there are still places where I get stuck.  I much prefer putting time into painting a canvas or other creative things, rather than sorting through the places in my home that bring up emotional junk. But having made the decision to purge the unnecessary from my life and home, dealing with the uncomfortable is part of the process. The past few years have been quite the tumultuous journey with many situations where we simply dealt with the moment and moved on. Life was busy and it was simply a matter of survival. Now that I have retired, life has slowed a bit, allowing more time to find more permanent solutions to things which have been given a temporary fix. I want to properly address things that have become less valuable and burdensome.

It sounds good, and even  has a drawing effect.   Massive amounts of stuff we've acquired from family members who have died over the past few years need to be sorted through and given appropriate valuation. But within those things are memories and emotions that are sometimes difficult to bear. Uncomfortable or not, it was time to begin.

Aware that I was not going to do well without properly preparing, I called in my prayer warriors for support. Courage was needed and I knew I could count on these faithful friends to lift me up in prayer. Once the request was sent out, I slowly began working through the most demanding of the projects. As I worked, I was also able to sort through many of the fears and frustrations I had initially tried to avoid. A weight lifted off my shoulders as I methodically worked through the issues, recognizing God's gracious timing in all of it.

There's still a lot of road ahead of me, and judging from what I've experienced today, lots to continue to sort through.  But with each step I take towards the goal that God has set for me, the lighter the burden becomes and more joyous the journey.

I pray that each of you will be able to find joy in your journey as well.

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"Not that I have already attained, or am already perfected; but I press on, that I may lay hold of that for which Christ Jesus has also laid hold of me." Philippians 3:12

The Well-Dressed Soul

“Therefore, as the elect of God, holy and beloved, put on tender mercies, kindness, humility, meekness, long suffering, bearing with one another.  If anyone has a complaint against another; even as Christ forgave you, so you also must do. But above all things, put on love, which is the bond of perfection. And let the peace of God rule in your hearts, to which you were also called in one body; and be thankful.  Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly with all wisdom, teaching and admonishing one another in psalms and hymn and spiritual songs, singing with grace in your hearts to the Lord. And whatever you do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus giving thanks to the Father.” Colossians 3:12-17

“Put on the full armor of God that you may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this age, against spiritual hosts of wickedness in the heavenly places. Therefore, take up the whole armor of God, that you may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand. Stand therefore having girded your waist with truth, having put on the breastplate of righteousness, and having shod your feet with the preparation of the gospel of peace; above all, taking the shield of faith with which you will be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked one. And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God; praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, being watchful to this end with all perseverance and supplication for all the saints- “Ephesians 6:11-18

Most of us wouldn’t consider going out in the cold without some type of protection against the elements, yet daily many of us fail to properly dress for our spiritual journey. Although familiar with the passages about the full armor in Ephesians, it isn’t always our first thought of the day. When an arrow pierces our hearts, we are suddenly made aware of our error, and then quickly scramble to “suit up” for battle.

But what other types of spiritual “clothing” should we put on?

A quick look at Colossians 3 reminds us to put on tender mercies, kindness, humility, longsuffering, meekness, and above all, to put on love.

I find it compelling that we are reminded how we should walk in the Spirit. It is a definitive act of consciousness.

Just as I wouldn’t want to go out into the cold without the proper clothing, I should be equally concerned about having a well-dressed soul.

Having determined to live purposefully in the coming year, I must choose daily to dress properly for the journey the Lord has for me. In addition to putting on the full armor each day, I choose to put on the garments of the royal daughter of the King. This Princess Warrior will choose the clothing of grace; tender mercies, kindness, humility, meekness, longsuffering, and above all love.

I know in doing so, my heart will be protected, and my soul appropriately dressed.

I pray that each of you will find the royal garments in your wardrobe as well.

Where will this year take you?

" A man's heart plans his way, but the Lord directs his steps."

Proverbs 16:9NKJV

Today marks the beginning of a new year and a new decade. It seems that in less than a blink of an eye, ten years have passed.

This morning as I was sitting with my husband talking over the events of the past year and trying to set some reasonable goals for the coming year, I couldn't help but sigh over how quickly time seems to pass lately. I know in part it is because we are aging and we are more profoundly aware of the limited time we have to make a positive impact on the lives of our children, grandchildren and others around us. Yet in speaking with those who are much younger, I hear the same lament that time is rapidly slipping away.

Perhaps it is because we have so much "instant access" to almost everything. Rarely do we wait for any length of time for most things these days. Certainly there are some places where there are delays, but more and more we see rapid response to most everything.

It makes waiting difficult.

But waiting is good.

It teaches patience, resilience and trust.

Learning to trust the path the Lord has laid is a journey filled with times where these qualities get tested and tried frequently.

As I sit back and evaluate the things I have learned in the past year, and make an effort to organize my time effectively for the new year, I am grateful that I have a Shepherd Who will lead me. Far too often I have wandered on the road of my own plans, only to find myself frustrated. Whenever I have chosen to follow Him though, my journey has been one of joy and immense contentment and peace.

And so today, as I filled out the calendar for the coming year, and gaze into the unknown future, I am thankful for the knowledge that it is all in God's hands and I can trust Him in every way.  Although I don't know with certainty what the future holds, I have absolute assurance Who holds it.

It is into His warm embrace I lean into, and sigh another sigh. 
This time one of complete peace.

May this coming year find you following Jesus ever more closely, and may His peace abound in your lives.

Will you answer the door?

"Behold, I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears My voice and opens the door, I will come in to him and dine with him, and he with Me. To him who overcomes, I will grant to sit with Me on My throne, as I also overcame and sat down with My Father on His throne. He who has ear let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches." Jesus as quoted in Revelation 3:20-22

As I sit at the computer to write this, I have had to collect my emotions several times. Too much of the world had invaded my quiet space. Taking a moment to read God's word, breathe in the fragrance of the Holy Spirit and listen to the soothing sounds as He speaks to my soul always helps.

Perhaps you haven't notice, but this world is a mess. Not a moment goes by that some atrocity isn't played out bearing witness to man's inhumanity to man. It's been a problem for centuries, but we have a much broader view because of today's technology. It's sad to realize that even though we have made amazing advancements, we still lack the ability to see so much.

In the ladies Bible study that I attend regularly, we have been studying 1 Peter.  Even though I have read it countless times, our line by line study has brought new and deeper revelation. The writer of the study has encouraged us to dig deeply into God's word and examine it carefully. When we take the time to really look at something, we can learn a lot.

Part of the reason for this post today is my frustration with those who choose not to see or hear.  It is God's mercy that reminds me that they are spiritually blind and deaf, and to pray for them.  You see, friends of mine were recently on a college campus nearby, sharing the gospel in the open. Their message of God's redemptive plan, wasn't well received. One of our young believing  friends who was on campus at the time, was appalled at the obnoxious and rude behavior of many who heard the message. I know it grieves her heart for her generation..as it should all of us. Far too many want their ears tickled with messages of prosperity and the "right" to do their own thing.  Sadly it is the message they are receiving again and again.

No one likes to hear the truth that this life is temporal and there will be a judgment for how we lived it. No one likes to be told their behavior is sinful and separates them from their Creator. No one wants to be held accountable.

But just because you don't like the message, doesn't mean it needs not to be told.

Paul of Tarsus knew this when he warned believers in 2 Timothy 4:3&4 "For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine, but according to their own desires, because they have itching ears, they will heap up for themselves teachers; and they will turn their ears away from the truth, and be turned aside to fables." It sounds a lot like society today, doesn't it? In the previous verse he was exhorting the church to "Preach the word! Be ready in season and out of season. Convince, rebuke, exhort, with all longsuffering and teaching." (2 Timothy 4:2)

You see, Paul knew what it was like to have a personal encounter with the Lord Jesus Christ, and he wanted to make sure others didn't miss the opportunity. (For more information on this read Acts 9)
It should be the same for each one of us who calls ourselves a Christian.

There are still so many who do not know the truth, and they are perishing in their sin.

The clock is ticking.
Jesus is coming back.
But this time, not as a babe in the manger, but as King of kings and Lord of lords.

For now, He stands at the door and knocks on the heart of all who are willing to hear.

Will you answer?