Call to Him

Read: Nehemiah 1:1-11; 2:4; Psalm 18:6; Psalm 46:1; Ephesians 3:14-20; Philippians 4:6-7; 1 Peter 5:6-7 – Do a word study on prayer. These verses only relate to this blog. Take the time and you will be so blessed.

“When we get things squared away vertically, it helps clear away the fog horizontally.” Charles Swindoll.

I remember it as if it were yesterday. I was a young child and was very troubled over a situation. I went into my bathroom, locked the door, sat down on the floor, placed my hands over my face, and prayed. I wasn’t raised in a Christian home and was never taught how to pray, but somehow I believed there was a God. So, as I spoke to God it was as if there was this protective bubble that came over me. I felt protected but the moment I finished and opened my eyes – the feeling instantly vanished. I only prayed occasionally, yet each time I did, I would experience the same sensation.

It wasn’t until my sophomore year of high school that I had school mates begin to explain to me their belief in God. They would invite me to church each Sunday and I would always decline. I even remember my orthodontist giving me a book about God’s love years before but I had never picked it up. I was intrigued by their lives. There was something different and I wanted to understand it more.

In May of my sophomore year I started getting sick. Then one day I collapsed in my bedroom in extreme pain. I was taken to the hospital but sent home with no diagnosis. In the middle of the night the pain returned so my mom took me to a different hospital. We learned that at the age of 15 I had a kidney stone. They would send me home only to have me show back up in the hospital because my pain was so severe. Finally, they decided to admit me into the hospital. On the 10th day of being in the hospital I was feeling so alone. I remember that evening that I cried out to God saying, “If you are real, and if you will take this stone away, I promise I will believe in you and go to church.” The next morning I woke up and went to the bathroom. When I stood up I looked down and there was a black stone the size of a #2 pencil eraser. I called the nurse immediately and she confirmed that I had passed my kidney stone. She then told me that she needed to call my doctor because unknown to me I was scheduled for surgery that morning – instead of having surgery I was going to get to go home.

I remember sitting in the hospital bed and saying, “OK, You’re real! You did your part – I believe.” I knew that day God was real but I still didn’t share about my prayer because I didn’t think anyone would believe me. I came home and looked for the book my orthodontist had given me and began reading it (I still have it 27 years later). The Sunday after my 16th birthday I went to a non-denominational church for the first time. The next three months I don’t think I missed a Sunday evening service. God began surrounding me with new friends at school who just happened to be Christians. They lovingly answered all my bizarre questions. Then one Sunday night I made the decision to whole-heartedly give my life over to God and ask Jesus into my heart. It was that simple prayer that changed my life. No longer was prayer this strange sensation that once I said Amen it was over. Once Jesus came into my heart He never left. I always feel I have that protective bubble over my life.

I’ve learned so much about prayer through the years and continue to learn. I’ve learned that prayer at times is about reverence, praise, and thanksgiving. Sometimes it’s a time of humbling myself and confessing my daily failures, and other times earnestly requesting something for myself or others. Many times though I’ve found that prayer is an informal conversation with a friend. There is one thing though I’m certain of - He longs to hear from each of us.

The Bible is filled with individuals who have demonstrated the gift and power of prayer. When I looked up prayer in my Topical Bible there were 14 pages of scripture references. Our church is going through a series teaching on prayer and I thought it would probably take a year to accurately go into all the details of prayer. Yet in my heart I know it’s just the simple truth of opening our hearts to Him and sharing with Him everything that is in there. That’s all He wants, and it’s the only thing that will bring peace to our hearts and minds that surpasses our understanding. (Phil.4:7)

I’ve learned that when I’m faced with life’s difficulties I have to go to God first. He is the only one who can bring peace in every circumstance. I can call friends but they don’t have the ability to do anything – unless of course they are going to pray (smile).

Hebrews 4:15 has become of one my favorite verses – “Let us therefore come boldly to the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy and find grace to help in the time of need.”

As I lit a few candles in my house this evening I immediately thought that prayer can be like a candle. My candles are always sitting there, but until I light one I don’t have the benefit of its beauty. God is always sitting there but until we engage in prayer we don’t have the benefit of feeling His presence or peace in our lives. “Some rewards in prayer come only in proportion to the effort.” Selwyn Hughes.

I love how Ephesians 3:14-20 reads in The Message:
My response is to get down on my knees before the Father, this magnificent Father who parcels out all heaven and earth. I ask him to strengthen you by his Spirit—not a brute strength but a glorious inner strength—that Christ will live in you as you open the door and invite him in. And I ask him that with both feet planted firmly on love, you'll be able to take in with all followers of Jesus the extravagant dimensions of Christ's love. Reach out and experience the breadth! Test its length! Plumb the depths! Rise to the heights! Live full lives, full in the fullness of God. God can do anything, you know—far more than you could ever imagine or guess or request in your wildest dreams! He does it not by pushing us around but by working within us, his Spirit deeply and gently within us.

AMEN!

Overcoming Your Doubts

This morning I read this by Hannah Whitall Smith and just had to share it.

Read: Proverbs 3

"Do not give heed to your doubts for a moment. Put your will in this matter over on the Lord's side, and trust Him to keep your from falling. Telling Him all about your utter weakness and your long-encouraged habits of doubt, and how helpless you are before it, and commit the whole battle to Him. Believe He is faithful, not because you feel it, or see it, but because He says He is. Believe it, whether you feel it or not. Cultivate a continuous habit of believing, and never let your faith waver for any reason, however plausible it may be. The result will be that sooner or later you will come to know that it is true, and all doubts will vanish in the blaze of the glory of the absolute faithfulness of God!"


Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding. Proverbs 3:5

Time Is Not Wasted

Read: Psalm 90:12, 14, 17; Matthew 6:33; 1 Corinthians 15:58

When I was young I used to dream about the things I wanted to accomplish or do in my lifetime. Never did it occur to me that I might not fulfill these dreams or desires. I never thought age would come as quickly as it seems to now. I also thought I would never be the one to experience a life-threatening illness.

As soon as you’re struck with an illness such as Breast Cancer it instantly changes your perspective on many aspects of life. The fact that surprised me was how sad I felt that my dreams and desires might not be fulfilled. These thoughts have been rolling through my mind for several weeks. Recently I was reading in a devotional and a portion of the text jumped out at me. “The truth is that the time allotted to us on this earth is sufficient for all the Lord has planned for us to do.” Luci Swindoll Somehow it instantly clicked with me that I will be given the exact number of years, days, and hours that God has allotted for me on this earth. The truth that really resonated with me was this time will be sufficient for what He has planned for me.

I know we all have our list of things we want to do in our lives (maybe mentally but not actually written down). Lately, I’ve heard a lot about the “bucket” list. I think there is nothing wrong with any of those. What convicted me was that I didn’t have a very long list of the things I wanted to do for the Lord. Most of my dreams and desires were technically what would make me happy (or so I think).

The verse in Matthew 6:33 came to mind. “But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you.” I looked this verse up in The Message to see how it was worded. “Steep your life in God-reality, God-initiative, God-provisions. Don’t worry about missing out. You’ll find all everyday human concerns will be met.” The next verse says, “Give your entire attention to what God is doing right now, and don’t get worked up about what may or may not happen tomorrow.”

I realize that my time on this earth really isn’t my own – it’s His. Now does that mean every minute is dedicated to service? I don’t believe so. I believe God has given us a perfect balance to enjoy the things He has created. I also have learned that when you are obedient in following His directions He blesses you with experiences that fulfill your deepest desires. None of us will ever have enough time to do the “things” we want, but we know that we will be given sufficient time to do exactly what He desires. This truth gave me great peace, and it also gave me the longing to be in tune with what He wants me to do.

To know that during the hardest and darkest year of my life He still gave me an avenue to minister to others by encouraging women to be in the Word, as He was fulfilling one of my desires to write. I have been blessed through a trial and it was used as something of purpose instead of only pain. Only God can accomplish this. “My dear, dear friends stand your ground. And don’t hold back. Throw yourselves into the work of the Master, confident that nothing you do for Him is a waste of time or effort.” 1 Corinthians 15:58 – The Message

I know if I can keep my focus on what God is doing right now in my life, I will have all the time I need to fulfill my purpose on earth. Cancer is not in control – God is.

“ Now may our Lord Jesus Christ Himself, and our God and Father, who has loved us and given us everlasting consolation and good hope by grace, comfort your hearts and establish you in every good word and work.” 2 Thessalonians 2:16-17

When You Feel Alone

Deuteronomy 31:8 - "And the LORD, He is the one who goes before you. He will be with you, He will not leave you nor forsake you; do not fear nor be dismayed."

Psalm 139:9,10 - If I take the wings of the morning, and dwell in the uttermost parts of the sea, even there Your hand shall lead me, and Your right hand shall hold me.

Isaiah 41:10 - Fear no, for I am with you; Be not dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you, yes, I will help you. I will uphold you with My righteous right hand.

What are your favorite verses when you feel alone? I would love to hear them.

Rocks in the Heart

Read: 1 Samuel 16:7; 2 Samuel 22:2-3; Psalm 84:2; Psalm 139; and Ezekiel 11

In May of 2004 I had the privilege to spend a weekend at Forest Home Conference Center for a Mother-Daughter retreat. In my mind I was doing this for Katelynn, yet I honestly believe I am the one who received the greatest blessing. There is something about devoting a time “away from it all” for prayer, worship, and fellowship. Sadly, we live in such a society that it is difficult to have some true “quiet” time. Not just time with God, but that time when it is only about God. The weekend was of course about a deeper mother-daughter relationship, but God pierced my heart in a new way. During the weekend as the speaker was sharing I thought, “Oh, I’ll have to share this with others some day.” It’s a simple thought, but for me it was very powerful. I hope it will also minister to you.

As we entered our meeting room on Saturday morning we were given a small, rough rock. This weekend was based on two verses. 1 Samuel 16:7 – “Man looks at the outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart.” And Psalm 139:23, 24 – “Search me, O God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts. See if there is any harmful way in me and lead me in the way everlasting.” We all know that God really knows what’s in our hearts and I know for me I have asked, if not daily, but weekly for Him to search my heart because I desire to be right before Him. I learned this weekend that is takes “really getting away” to hear what He sees in my heart. It took a simple illustration to finally realize what was in my heart.

Simply speaking we all have “rocks” in our hearts. These are the rough circumstances, rough thoughts (worry, anger, and disappointment), rough pains, and even the rocks from wrong choices (disobedience). These rocks become a blockage in our hearts to prevent what God wants to do in our lives. These rocks can become spiritual heart attacks. We all have rough rocks of heartache. God desires to heal us but we must first decide to give these rough rocks to the Lord. Everyone is carrying at least one rock around, and it is time to throw this rough rock away.

I instantly knew the two “rocks” that I needed to deal with right away. The first one was a deep disappointment. It was a small rough rock that I had to give to God because if I held on to it much longer, it was only going to continue tearing up my heart. The scars might continue to be noticeable, but God can use them to show others the power of His love. The second rock felt more like a boulder because it was very painful and personal. It was a rock I did not choose to pick up, did not deserve to get, but it was given to me. I honestly thought I was OK that it came, but during this weekend I realized I was angry for the damage this rock did in my life. Most importantly God said, “You have to give me this. Not only does it give you pain to carry it in your heart, it’s a sin to continue with this in your heart.”

What should you do with the rocks in your heart? You need to physically get a rock, take the rock, get on your knees before God and give it to Him. Maybe, you’ll have more than one rock like I did. God knows about this rock, yet He can’t completely remove it until you ask Him to. I think the following verses give us a little insight into the heart of God and what He desires and shows us we must do something before He can work in us.

Ezekiel 11:19-21 – “I will give them an undivided heart and put a new spirit in them; I will remove from them their heart of stone and give them a heart of flesh. Then they will follow my decrees and be careful to keep my laws. They will be my people, and I will be their God. But as for those whose hearts are devoted to their vile images and detestable idols, I will bring down on their own heads what they have done, declares the Sovereign LORD." (NIV)

I encourage you to lay your rough rock (or rocks) into the hands of your loving Father and that there would be nothing blocking the work He wants to do in your life. Trust me, it’s not easy, but it is so worth it! The only rock we want left in our hearts is Jesus.

Psalm 31:3 – For You are my rock and my fortress; Therefore for Your name’s sake, lead me and guide me.

Get Away From the Noise

Read: 1 Kings 19; Isaiah 55:3, Matthew 11:25-30

Some weeks it’s so hard to be everything to everyone and still keep your spiritual life as a priority. The demands of being a homemaker, working, ministry, or all the other demands of life, can sometimes take everything out of you. It’s in those days, or moments, you want to get away from it all, and get some peace and quiet. I’m sure you feel as I do that you don’t want your life to just “be busy,” you want it to be filled with purpose, and the things God has called you to do.

I’ve learned that unless you take time for yourself, it’s very difficult to get away from the “noise of life” There is a song that has ministered to me so much through the years that I framed the words to the chorus. The song lyrics resonate within me: “I want a heart that hears You whisper, I want these eyes to see Your plans, I want a soul that holds to something that’s beyond these human hands, I want the feeling of Your presence, I want to hear Your voice, I want to live above the noise.” - Song “Above the Noise” by Russ Lee

There are days when the things of this world become so loud that we can’t hear His whisper, we don’t understand His plans, we barely can hold on, and we begin to doubt His presence. Living above the noise takes great balance. Sometimes it takes a committed time to be still before Him.

I’m a strong advocate for Spiritual retreats. I don’t believe I’ve ever gone on one that God hasn’t revealed Himself to me in one way or another. He honors those times when all we want to do is “Be still, and know that I am God.” Psalm 46:10 I love how this passage is written in The Message* - "Step out of the traffic! Take a long, loving look at me, your High God," We have to get out of the traffic of life. I’ve learned the most important time for you to get away is when your daily life has made you feel empty inside. It’s important to take the time to get yourself refueled spiritually, emotionally, and possibly physically.

The prophet Elijah, during a time of self-pity, had journeyed to the mountain of God (Horeb). While he was in a cave the LORD came to Elijah, asked him what he was doing, and then told him to come out of the cave and stand on the mountain before Him. I don’t know about you, but my knees feel weak just thinking about it. God was in Elijah’s presence (but not seen). Elijah learned that God did not speak to him through a strong wind, or an earthquake, or in a fire. God spoke to Elijah in a still small voice. This shows me two things we need to do to hear God. One, be still, and two, be quiet.

Matthew 11:28 - "Are you tired? Worn out? Burned out on religion? Come to me. Get away with me and you'll recover your life. I'll show you how to take a real rest. Walk with me and work with me—watch how I do it. Learn the unforced rhythms of grace. I won't lay anything heavy or ill-fitting on you. Keep company with me and you'll learn to live freely and lightly." (The Message)

I’ve had some of those “mountain top” experiences as Elijah did. As I reflect on them I realize it was because I came desiring to be quiet before Him. It’s in those times I have felt His presence and have heard His whisper as He has revealed His plans for the work of these hands. I’m not saying that I haven’t had many amazing revelations during my daily quiet times, because I have. It’s just different when you’re completely away from all the noises that you face daily.

This month I encourage you to steal some time above the noise – extra time, not just your quiet time. It can be a couple of hours or even a weekend away. Make an appointment with God. I’m confident He has something special to share with you – more of Him.

“Incline your ear, and come to Me. Hear, and your soul shall live.” Isaiah 55:3

* ”The Message”, by Eugene H. Peterson.

A Precious Jewel

Read: Romans 8:28; Philippians 1:6; and 1 Peter 1:4-9 (just for encouragement)

It’s an old thought, yet one I love to think on again and again. It’s the amazing revelation of the oyster and the pearl. The pearl in Biblical times was among the most precious of gems, and was highly esteemed. In ancient times the pearl was the only jewel which was a natural product of living matter. Today, pearl production is not accidental as oysters are cultured to produce pearls. If a pearl is currently found in a natural setting it’s a rare and very valuable treasure.

How does such a precious jewel form from living matter? In nature, a grain of sand (or other material) finds its way inside the shell of the oyster. The intruder, though microscopic, is a source of irritation and pain to the soft body of the oyster. Unable to rid itself of the unwelcome pebble, it must accept the irritation as part of itself. The oyster seeks to reduce the irritation by coating it with layers of soft, iridescent mother-of-pearl material from its own shell. Just think of the beauty of some of the sea shells you have found. I have read the formation described as a combination of rainbows, moonlight, and bits of flame. The worst storms, gales, even hurricanes will not dislodge the pebble. Over time, the oyster transforms a painful irritation into a beautiful pearl of great value. It can take 10 to 30 years for a beautiful pearl to be shaped from the original irritant.

Each of us can resemble that pearl as we are being transformed from the irritant of “life.” Jesus knew what we would face and He knew what the irritant (or irritants) would form in us. The irritant is painful. We would rather not experience pain or suffering, but without these in our lives we wouldn’t be formed into something of true beauty, which is valuable to Him. Now, remember a pearl is not formed overnight (even cultured pearls take 5 to 30 years to develop) so we will not be changed overnight either. It takes time.

Our life can be like an oyster. After 80 years – plus or minus a few years (our character takes much longer to transform) – of irritants our pearl will be completed. It is Jesus Himself who opens the shell, and reveals us within His glory. The beauty of the lustrous colors of this jewel is only magnified by the brilliance of His presence shining in the midst of it. “being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.” Philippians 1:6 (NIV)

As you face the painful irritants in your life, I hope you will think about the precious jewel it’s creating – you.

“And all of us have had that veil removed so that we can be mirrors that brightly reflect the glory of the Lord. And as the Spirit of the Lord works within us, we become more and more like him and reflect his glory even more.” 2 Corinthians 3:18 (NLT).