Exodus 14:15-16 ESV
The Lord said to Moses, "Why do you cry to me? Tell the people of Israel to go forward. Lift up your staff, and stretch out your hand over the sea and divide it, that the people of Israel may go through the sea on dry ground.
There I was, huddled in a mass with my wife in my arms, crying because there was nothing else to do. I was a young youth pastor, newly married, barely graduated, newborn daughter in the room next door, working as a waiter at Red Robin and completely and utterly defeated. Despite everything I tried. Despite all the hours I worked. Despite all the things my wife did to bring in money. We were broke. We had no money. None. We didn't know how we were going to buy food. In front of me was a bill for an amount that seemed so impossibly far away from achievable. All I could do was sit there... defeated. Weeping.
Then we prayed.
We prayed because we knew that no matter how hard I tried. No matter how great the effort. I had failed and could not do this on my own. We prayed...hard.
Then there was a knock on the door. Right then. A knock. I almost didn't answer the door because I didn't want anyone to see me like this. I didn't want to admit my defeat to the world. But, I slowly got up and opened the door. Standing there was a man from our church. Not a great friend. Not someone we were particularly connected to. Not anyone that would know or even suspect our troubles. Mr. Curt Powers stood there with a huge smile on his face.
He didn't mince words. I just said, "God told me to come over and give this to you." He handed me an envelope, shook my hand, and walked back to his car.
I opened the envelope and burst into tears. There in my hand was a check for just the amount of money we needed for that bill that I was defeated over. God, through that obedient Christian man, had saved me from defeat. I will never forget that man and his family. I will never forget how when I was pressed against the red sea of my life, God parted the waters in front of me. He didn't give me more than I needed but, exactly what I needed.
What do you need today to get through your struggle? What is it that has you defeated? Call out to God, lift your head, and watch God work. Maybe God has called you to be the Curt Powers to someone else in your life. Obey. Because you never know when something small to you will mean the world to someone else. Do not despair. Do not give up.
Thursday, April 28, 2016
Wednesday, April 27, 2016
28Apr16
Ephesians 5:15-16
Look carefully then how you walk, not as unwise but as wise, making the best use of time, because the days are evil.
Today I want to share a devotional that I read from Max Lucado's new book "God Is With You Every Day." It lifted my spirit to say these words out loud and I encourage you to do the same.
TODAY I WILL
"Today I will make a difference. I will begin by controlling my thoughts. A person is the product of his thoughts. I want to be happy and hopeful. Therefore, I will have thoughts that are happy and hopeful. I refuse to be victimized by my circumstances. Optimism will be my companion, and victory will be my hallmark. Today I will make a difference.
I will be grateful for the twenty-four hours that are before me. Time is a precious commodity. I refuse to allow what little time I have to be contaminated by self-pity, anxiety, or boredom. I will face this day with the joy of a child and the courage of a giant. While it is here, I will use it for loving and giving. Today I will make a difference.
I will not let past failures haunt me. Even though my life is scarred with mistakes, I refuse to rummage through the trash heap of my failures. I will admit them. I will correct them. I will press on. Victoriously. No failure is fatal. It's ok to stumble... I will get up. It's ok to fail... I will rise again. Today I will make a difference."
Look carefully then how you walk, not as unwise but as wise, making the best use of time, because the days are evil.
Today I want to share a devotional that I read from Max Lucado's new book "God Is With You Every Day." It lifted my spirit to say these words out loud and I encourage you to do the same.
TODAY I WILL
"Today I will make a difference. I will begin by controlling my thoughts. A person is the product of his thoughts. I want to be happy and hopeful. Therefore, I will have thoughts that are happy and hopeful. I refuse to be victimized by my circumstances. Optimism will be my companion, and victory will be my hallmark. Today I will make a difference.
I will be grateful for the twenty-four hours that are before me. Time is a precious commodity. I refuse to allow what little time I have to be contaminated by self-pity, anxiety, or boredom. I will face this day with the joy of a child and the courage of a giant. While it is here, I will use it for loving and giving. Today I will make a difference.
I will not let past failures haunt me. Even though my life is scarred with mistakes, I refuse to rummage through the trash heap of my failures. I will admit them. I will correct them. I will press on. Victoriously. No failure is fatal. It's ok to stumble... I will get up. It's ok to fail... I will rise again. Today I will make a difference."
Tuesday, April 26, 2016
27Apr16
Psalm 24
3 Who shall ascend the hill of the Lord?
And who shall stand in his holy place?
4 He who has clean hands and a pure heart,
who does not lift up his soul to what is false
and does not swear deceitfully.
5 He will receive blessing from the Lord
and righteousness from the God of his salvation.
6 Such is the generation of those who seek him,
who seek the face of the God of Jacob.
I love the song "Give Us Clean Hands" (especially the Kutless version). It's an older song that I grew up singing in the church. It's got a catchy tune but, more than that it is pure Scripture from Psalm 24. Singing Scripture can be a really powerful practice. I don't have to worry about whether I am asking the right questions or seeking after the right course of action. I am also reinforcing the memorization of Scripture in my heart. For me this is about the only way that I memorize things. Song. Isn't amazing how music has the ability to completely alter our mood, change our day, and define moments in our lives? I don't think this is an accident. I also don't think that it's an accident that the largest book of the Bible is full of... music. Music written mostly by a man that is said to be a "man after God's own heart," David. How long has it been since you listened to the promises of God in song? How long has it been since you sang the praises of the Lord from your own lips with everything you have inside you? It will change you "from the inside out" (which is also the title to a fantastic song by Hillsong that you should check out).
I still really enjoy listening to all different kinds of music that is out there. But, when I was young my mom used to always say, "garbage in, garbage out." Music grips our hearts. It changes us. What are you letting it change you into? What are you allowing to influence you? Need some examples of great music that focuses on God? Are you part of the generation that seeks Him, seeks His face, and will stand in His holy place? Let the praises of God forever be in your heart, on your lips, and in your ears.
3 Who shall ascend the hill of the Lord?
And who shall stand in his holy place?
4 He who has clean hands and a pure heart,
who does not lift up his soul to what is false
and does not swear deceitfully.
5 He will receive blessing from the Lord
and righteousness from the God of his salvation.
6 Such is the generation of those who seek him,
who seek the face of the God of Jacob.
I love the song "Give Us Clean Hands" (especially the Kutless version). It's an older song that I grew up singing in the church. It's got a catchy tune but, more than that it is pure Scripture from Psalm 24. Singing Scripture can be a really powerful practice. I don't have to worry about whether I am asking the right questions or seeking after the right course of action. I am also reinforcing the memorization of Scripture in my heart. For me this is about the only way that I memorize things. Song. Isn't amazing how music has the ability to completely alter our mood, change our day, and define moments in our lives? I don't think this is an accident. I also don't think that it's an accident that the largest book of the Bible is full of... music. Music written mostly by a man that is said to be a "man after God's own heart," David. How long has it been since you listened to the promises of God in song? How long has it been since you sang the praises of the Lord from your own lips with everything you have inside you? It will change you "from the inside out" (which is also the title to a fantastic song by Hillsong that you should check out).
I still really enjoy listening to all different kinds of music that is out there. But, when I was young my mom used to always say, "garbage in, garbage out." Music grips our hearts. It changes us. What are you letting it change you into? What are you allowing to influence you? Need some examples of great music that focuses on God? Are you part of the generation that seeks Him, seeks His face, and will stand in His holy place? Let the praises of God forever be in your heart, on your lips, and in your ears.
Monday, April 25, 2016
26Apr16
1 Corinthians 10:13 (ESV)
"No temptation has overtaken you that is not common to man. God is faithful, and he will not let you be tempted beyond your ability, but with the temptation he will also provide the way of escape, that you may be able to endure it."
This is, quite possibly, the most misquoted verse in the entire Bible. Right next to 1 Timothy 6:10 "For the LOVE of money is a root of all kinds of evils." Some people look at this verse and paraphrase it to say, "God will never give you more than you can handle." That's just wrong and a wrong view of God and His power. Notice what it actually says, in context. It doesn't say that if I sit in the middle of temptation and sin that God is going to give me the strength to endure it... It says that God provides the way of escape. Who provides the way of escape? But, if I try hard enough I can conquer any temptation that comes my way right? If I just do this thing or believe that thing or say the right magic words then the temptation will just go away right? Wrong again. God provides a way out. God does. Yup. God. Not me. Not you.
The problem with thinking that temptation is something that we personally have the strength to overcome and that God wont "give me more than I can handle" is that it downplays the role of God in your life. Of course God's going to give you more than you can handle on your own! If He didn't then we wouldn't need Him. We wouldn't turn to Him. This verse has so much truth in it that we don't like to acknowledge like: 1) The temptation you are going through is not unique to you... it's common. Other people are dealing with it and finding escape through God. 2) That God only promises endurance in our escape. Endurance. That doesn't mean there's going to be a victory party at the end of every temptation. It means that sometimes you're lucky just to keep on walking after it.
All of this is possible because God is faithful. He is faithful in our trials and in our temptation to provide us with a way out and He won't allow it to overwhelm us if we turn to Him in our pain and sorrows. Are you looking for a way to escape your temptations or are you sitting in them, enjoying the worldly benefits, and hoping that one day you can power your way through it? Are you leaning on YOUR power or God's grace?
"No temptation has overtaken you that is not common to man. God is faithful, and he will not let you be tempted beyond your ability, but with the temptation he will also provide the way of escape, that you may be able to endure it."
This is, quite possibly, the most misquoted verse in the entire Bible. Right next to 1 Timothy 6:10 "For the LOVE of money is a root of all kinds of evils." Some people look at this verse and paraphrase it to say, "God will never give you more than you can handle." That's just wrong and a wrong view of God and His power. Notice what it actually says, in context. It doesn't say that if I sit in the middle of temptation and sin that God is going to give me the strength to endure it... It says that God provides the way of escape. Who provides the way of escape? But, if I try hard enough I can conquer any temptation that comes my way right? If I just do this thing or believe that thing or say the right magic words then the temptation will just go away right? Wrong again. God provides a way out. God does. Yup. God. Not me. Not you.
The problem with thinking that temptation is something that we personally have the strength to overcome and that God wont "give me more than I can handle" is that it downplays the role of God in your life. Of course God's going to give you more than you can handle on your own! If He didn't then we wouldn't need Him. We wouldn't turn to Him. This verse has so much truth in it that we don't like to acknowledge like: 1) The temptation you are going through is not unique to you... it's common. Other people are dealing with it and finding escape through God. 2) That God only promises endurance in our escape. Endurance. That doesn't mean there's going to be a victory party at the end of every temptation. It means that sometimes you're lucky just to keep on walking after it.
All of this is possible because God is faithful. He is faithful in our trials and in our temptation to provide us with a way out and He won't allow it to overwhelm us if we turn to Him in our pain and sorrows. Are you looking for a way to escape your temptations or are you sitting in them, enjoying the worldly benefits, and hoping that one day you can power your way through it? Are you leaning on YOUR power or God's grace?
Sunday, April 24, 2016
25Apr16
Luke 22:14-15
And when the hour came, he reclined at table, and the apostles with him. And he said to them, "I have earnestly desired to eat this Passover with you before I suffer."
This past weekend I was able to go to my first Passover Seder with some of the Jewish Soldiers in the Battalion. My exposure to this holiday throughout my life had been connected only to "the Lord's Supper." To me, as a Christian, Passover took on a very sorrowful and solemn meaning as it was taught to me in this context. Once a month I took communion at church and was reminded that the bread and the wine were linked to the crucifixion of my Savior. So, I walked into that Seder with some pretty deep-rooted pre-conceived notions of what I was going to experience. But, it was nothing like I thought it would be! It was a party!
We had a great time talking, laughing, singing, eating, and learning together as we reclined at the table. There was wine flowing freely and food in abundance as the Jewish congregation recounted their history as a people and celebrated their freedom from oppression. Experiencing this suddenly put the "last supper" into a whole new context and gave it so much more depth. They weren't mourning and somber. They were celebrating! They may have even been a little intoxicated together! These were fishermen celebrating one of the biggest holidays of their faith! They were singing and laughing and having a great time together. How did I manage to suck the joy out of something that was so rich in life and fun? I needed my Jewish brothers to help open my eyes.
Sometimes when we are stuck in a rut of tradition and habit we need the eyes of someone outside our normal life to shed light on where we are sucking the joy out of something God meant to be fun. Sometimes we need to be open enough to receive this from people from which we may have differing viewpoints. You lose out on so much of life when you close your heart to the experiences of others. What are you stuck in today? Who can help you see from a different perspective?
And when the hour came, he reclined at table, and the apostles with him. And he said to them, "I have earnestly desired to eat this Passover with you before I suffer."
This past weekend I was able to go to my first Passover Seder with some of the Jewish Soldiers in the Battalion. My exposure to this holiday throughout my life had been connected only to "the Lord's Supper." To me, as a Christian, Passover took on a very sorrowful and solemn meaning as it was taught to me in this context. Once a month I took communion at church and was reminded that the bread and the wine were linked to the crucifixion of my Savior. So, I walked into that Seder with some pretty deep-rooted pre-conceived notions of what I was going to experience. But, it was nothing like I thought it would be! It was a party!
We had a great time talking, laughing, singing, eating, and learning together as we reclined at the table. There was wine flowing freely and food in abundance as the Jewish congregation recounted their history as a people and celebrated their freedom from oppression. Experiencing this suddenly put the "last supper" into a whole new context and gave it so much more depth. They weren't mourning and somber. They were celebrating! They may have even been a little intoxicated together! These were fishermen celebrating one of the biggest holidays of their faith! They were singing and laughing and having a great time together. How did I manage to suck the joy out of something that was so rich in life and fun? I needed my Jewish brothers to help open my eyes.
Sometimes when we are stuck in a rut of tradition and habit we need the eyes of someone outside our normal life to shed light on where we are sucking the joy out of something God meant to be fun. Sometimes we need to be open enough to receive this from people from which we may have differing viewpoints. You lose out on so much of life when you close your heart to the experiences of others. What are you stuck in today? Who can help you see from a different perspective?
Thursday, April 21, 2016
22Apr16
1 Samuel 15:24
Saul said to Samuel, "I have sinned, for I have transgressed the commandment of the Lord and your words, because I feared the people and obeyed their voice."
When I was a youth pastor I used to play a game with the teens that would be set up like this... I would have them stand in a circle and then I would give each of them the name of an animal. No matter what size of group I had there would be only two people with the same animal. Then, when I said "go," they would all start making their animal noise at the tops of their lungs trying desperately to find their partner in a sea of noise. It was a ridiculous sight. But, it taught an important lesson. Sometimes it is really hard to hear the voice you are supposed to be listening to.
The Bible says that God speaks in a "still, small, voice." I definitely don't think that's the only voice He uses though because He has definitely shouted at me before. But, in a world that vies for our attention every second of the day it is really hard to hear the voice of God. It's even harder if we're not even listening for it. Saul knew what the right thing to do was but, he was swayed by the pleading of the people. If we don't have our priorities right it is too easy to lose track of the voice of God. What if you're trying to find a duck sound but, you really like ponies? I really want to be a pony... let's follow the pony noise. Nope. Doesn't work.
Take the time to pause today and hone in on God's voice. Try to take 5 minutes. Seriously... time yourself. 5 minutes to block out everything else and listen for the voice of God about your direction and choices. If we go too long without that we may even forget what the voice of God sounds like. Don't follow the pony noises... listen for God. Who are you listening to today?
Saul said to Samuel, "I have sinned, for I have transgressed the commandment of the Lord and your words, because I feared the people and obeyed their voice."
When I was a youth pastor I used to play a game with the teens that would be set up like this... I would have them stand in a circle and then I would give each of them the name of an animal. No matter what size of group I had there would be only two people with the same animal. Then, when I said "go," they would all start making their animal noise at the tops of their lungs trying desperately to find their partner in a sea of noise. It was a ridiculous sight. But, it taught an important lesson. Sometimes it is really hard to hear the voice you are supposed to be listening to.
The Bible says that God speaks in a "still, small, voice." I definitely don't think that's the only voice He uses though because He has definitely shouted at me before. But, in a world that vies for our attention every second of the day it is really hard to hear the voice of God. It's even harder if we're not even listening for it. Saul knew what the right thing to do was but, he was swayed by the pleading of the people. If we don't have our priorities right it is too easy to lose track of the voice of God. What if you're trying to find a duck sound but, you really like ponies? I really want to be a pony... let's follow the pony noise. Nope. Doesn't work.
Take the time to pause today and hone in on God's voice. Try to take 5 minutes. Seriously... time yourself. 5 minutes to block out everything else and listen for the voice of God about your direction and choices. If we go too long without that we may even forget what the voice of God sounds like. Don't follow the pony noises... listen for God. Who are you listening to today?
Wednesday, April 20, 2016
21Apr16
1 Kings 8:61
"And may your hearts be fully committed to the LORD our God, to live by his decrees and obey his commands, as at this time."
Commitment. That can be a really heavy word. To promise and then complete, or continue to try to complete, something can sometimes seem such a daunting task. Yesterday I got the great opportunity to re-enlist my younger brother in the Army. For the third time he is swearing to "support and defend the Constitution against all enemies foreign and domestic...so help me God." Commitment. It was such an honor to stand there with him as he continues to follow the path he has chosen and promise another two years of his life to that cause. Although he's nine years younger than me and we basically didn't know each other growing up because I was out of the house before he became cool, I was standing face to face with a man I admired. A man I knew would fulfill his obligation and commitment even if it cost him his life.
Most of us know what that means. We swore the same oath, or something very similar, when we entered the Army. We made a promise. We made a commitment. I've also known a lot of people who would not fulfill that oath and would fall short of that commitment. Commitment is far from convenience. They both start with the same letter but, could not be further apart. Commitment is tested in the fires of adversity and hardship. Commitment isn't swayed by emotion or sentiment. Commitment is a choice. It's one we make over and over again to maintain our integrity and to be able to look in the mirror and say, "I have honor."
We make a lot of commitments in this life. To God. To our spouse. To our loved ones. To the Army. It is imperative that we remain "fully committed" regardless of the trials and hardships of life. I had a pastor once tell me, "Under promise. Over produce." Don't make a commitment you aren't ready to follow through with. Produce more than you promise. But, if you have sworn to something... keep your oath. Keep your honor. What are you committed to?
"And may your hearts be fully committed to the LORD our God, to live by his decrees and obey his commands, as at this time."
Commitment. That can be a really heavy word. To promise and then complete, or continue to try to complete, something can sometimes seem such a daunting task. Yesterday I got the great opportunity to re-enlist my younger brother in the Army. For the third time he is swearing to "support and defend the Constitution against all enemies foreign and domestic...so help me God." Commitment. It was such an honor to stand there with him as he continues to follow the path he has chosen and promise another two years of his life to that cause. Although he's nine years younger than me and we basically didn't know each other growing up because I was out of the house before he became cool, I was standing face to face with a man I admired. A man I knew would fulfill his obligation and commitment even if it cost him his life.
Most of us know what that means. We swore the same oath, or something very similar, when we entered the Army. We made a promise. We made a commitment. I've also known a lot of people who would not fulfill that oath and would fall short of that commitment. Commitment is far from convenience. They both start with the same letter but, could not be further apart. Commitment is tested in the fires of adversity and hardship. Commitment isn't swayed by emotion or sentiment. Commitment is a choice. It's one we make over and over again to maintain our integrity and to be able to look in the mirror and say, "I have honor."
We make a lot of commitments in this life. To God. To our spouse. To our loved ones. To the Army. It is imperative that we remain "fully committed" regardless of the trials and hardships of life. I had a pastor once tell me, "Under promise. Over produce." Don't make a commitment you aren't ready to follow through with. Produce more than you promise. But, if you have sworn to something... keep your oath. Keep your honor. What are you committed to?
Tuesday, April 19, 2016
20Apr16
1 Peter 5:8 (ESV)
"Be sober-minded; be watchful. Your adversary the devil prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour."
I have mentioned this verse before in a Word of the Day I put out early in the tour about responsible use of alcohol. But, as I was reflecting on it I realized that it encompasses so much more than that. This isn't a "shame shame shame I know your name" verse. This is a warning of the deepest nature. A warning that says, "stay alert. Stay alive."
I like in the cop shows when the detective asks a family member, "can you think of anyone who would want to do harm to your loved one?" And the answer is always something like, "oh, no officer. He was such a nice guy. No one would ever..." But, the fact remains... HE'S DEAD! Someone killed him. Someone DID want to do him harm. What no one around him, or himself, could see was the danger lurking around the corner.
We live our lives like there is no one that would want to do us harm. In this blind naiveté that the world wants us to succeed if we just put positive thoughts and work into the air. Nope. We have an enemy. He is prowling. He will devour us because that is his nature... if we aren't ready for him.
So, what do we do? In the Army, when we know we are going to face an enemy or be in a potentially dangerous situation, we institute GO1. This rule stops us from drinking, pulls us in closer to post, and a variety of other things that put us in a posture of readiness. Are you ready for an attack on your soul today? What are you doing, or not doing, that puts you closer to God and your protection? Can you heed the warning call?
"Be sober-minded; be watchful. Your adversary the devil prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour."
I have mentioned this verse before in a Word of the Day I put out early in the tour about responsible use of alcohol. But, as I was reflecting on it I realized that it encompasses so much more than that. This isn't a "shame shame shame I know your name" verse. This is a warning of the deepest nature. A warning that says, "stay alert. Stay alive."
I like in the cop shows when the detective asks a family member, "can you think of anyone who would want to do harm to your loved one?" And the answer is always something like, "oh, no officer. He was such a nice guy. No one would ever..." But, the fact remains... HE'S DEAD! Someone killed him. Someone DID want to do him harm. What no one around him, or himself, could see was the danger lurking around the corner.
We live our lives like there is no one that would want to do us harm. In this blind naiveté that the world wants us to succeed if we just put positive thoughts and work into the air. Nope. We have an enemy. He is prowling. He will devour us because that is his nature... if we aren't ready for him.
So, what do we do? In the Army, when we know we are going to face an enemy or be in a potentially dangerous situation, we institute GO1. This rule stops us from drinking, pulls us in closer to post, and a variety of other things that put us in a posture of readiness. Are you ready for an attack on your soul today? What are you doing, or not doing, that puts you closer to God and your protection? Can you heed the warning call?
Monday, April 18, 2016
19Apr16
Proverbs 20:5
"The purpose in a man's heart is like deep water, but a man of understanding will draw it out."
Yesterday our Division Chaplain, CH Chepey, assigned us all a task to go and talk to ten Soldiers and ask them, "What is your purpose?" I thought this would be a pretty easy question for people to answer but, I was very wrong. I have to ask 23 different Soldiers to just get ten answers. 13 had no idea. Most of them had never even thought about it before. The other startling revelation I got was that, of the ten who did answer the question, eight of them had a purpose that was focused on others and only one was related to the Army.
What breaks my heart is that, if this is an accurate representation of my Soldiers, most of them are living a seemingly purposeless life. Without purpose it's no wonder we face so much depression, anxiety, and heartache. Without purpose where is the hope for the future? I've heard it said that, "if you don't live for something then you will die for nothing." Life is far too short to not know why you are here. If you haven't thought about this question you may want to spend the time to talk to God, your friends, your family, and those you love about what your purpose is. Draw it out of the deep waters of your soul. Solidify it. Answer the question and it will provide you the fuel to make it through the toughest times. What is your purpose?
"The purpose in a man's heart is like deep water, but a man of understanding will draw it out."
Yesterday our Division Chaplain, CH Chepey, assigned us all a task to go and talk to ten Soldiers and ask them, "What is your purpose?" I thought this would be a pretty easy question for people to answer but, I was very wrong. I have to ask 23 different Soldiers to just get ten answers. 13 had no idea. Most of them had never even thought about it before. The other startling revelation I got was that, of the ten who did answer the question, eight of them had a purpose that was focused on others and only one was related to the Army.
What breaks my heart is that, if this is an accurate representation of my Soldiers, most of them are living a seemingly purposeless life. Without purpose it's no wonder we face so much depression, anxiety, and heartache. Without purpose where is the hope for the future? I've heard it said that, "if you don't live for something then you will die for nothing." Life is far too short to not know why you are here. If you haven't thought about this question you may want to spend the time to talk to God, your friends, your family, and those you love about what your purpose is. Draw it out of the deep waters of your soul. Solidify it. Answer the question and it will provide you the fuel to make it through the toughest times. What is your purpose?
Sunday, April 17, 2016
18Apr16
Isaiah 30:15
"For thus said the Lord God, the Holy One of Israel, 'In returning and rest you shall be saved; in quietness and in trust shall be your strength.' But you were unwilling,"
Throughout the Old Testament God has issues with the Israelite people. Well, actually, it is the Israelite people who have a problem with God. God keeps trying to get them to stay close to Him and trust Him but, they (just like us) cannot follow the rules and do stupid things. At this point God sent a prophet to them to calm them down, to warn them, and to try and convince them that they need to come back and rest in Him.
I consistently choose the busy track. There is something in me that says, "if you sit down for too long then you are wasting time and being lazy." But, more and more I am convinced (well mostly because the Bible is very clear about it) that we need rest. Good rest. The rest that isn't just about being stationary but, is about resting in peace that God can give us when we relinquish worry and doubt. Doesn't that sound nice? Isaiah says it is in this state that we are saved.
"But, you were unwilling." Ouch. I choose to be busy over resting in the peace and trust of my God. I choose to doubt that He's got it under control long enough to breathe. We do this a lot. We think there is something only we, personally, can do about situations. You will always be busy about something. There will always be that "one more thing" in your day. But, you have to be willing to "return and rest." How did you rest this weekend? How are you resting? Do you have peace and truth or are you just being stationary during your down time?
"For thus said the Lord God, the Holy One of Israel, 'In returning and rest you shall be saved; in quietness and in trust shall be your strength.' But you were unwilling,"
Throughout the Old Testament God has issues with the Israelite people. Well, actually, it is the Israelite people who have a problem with God. God keeps trying to get them to stay close to Him and trust Him but, they (just like us) cannot follow the rules and do stupid things. At this point God sent a prophet to them to calm them down, to warn them, and to try and convince them that they need to come back and rest in Him.
I consistently choose the busy track. There is something in me that says, "if you sit down for too long then you are wasting time and being lazy." But, more and more I am convinced (well mostly because the Bible is very clear about it) that we need rest. Good rest. The rest that isn't just about being stationary but, is about resting in peace that God can give us when we relinquish worry and doubt. Doesn't that sound nice? Isaiah says it is in this state that we are saved.
"But, you were unwilling." Ouch. I choose to be busy over resting in the peace and trust of my God. I choose to doubt that He's got it under control long enough to breathe. We do this a lot. We think there is something only we, personally, can do about situations. You will always be busy about something. There will always be that "one more thing" in your day. But, you have to be willing to "return and rest." How did you rest this weekend? How are you resting? Do you have peace and truth or are you just being stationary during your down time?
Thursday, April 14, 2016
15Apr16
Matthew 5:16
In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven.
Last night at Bible study I had the great opportunity to talk to some of the 2-8CAV Soldiers about the importance of letting God's purpose for your life come through in everything that you do. It is such a profoundly simple concept. God made you... for this... right now. He's not waiting for you to be someone else or become something else. He's ready for you now. But, we get in the way.
It's like the moon. This little tiny satellite of the earth floating a short distance away (by space standards) reflects the light from the sun every evening. It becomes a part of a larger system by bringing light even when the sun is out of view. So now, this huge, massive, and substantial force to our universe is being broadcast by the tiny, insignificant, rock of a moon. But, what happens when the moon passes in front of the sun? Eclipse. It blocks the entire thing. It stops the light. It reverses its purpose.
We are like the moon that way. We can choose to reflect the light of God in our lives every single day or, we can choose to block people's view of the light that is inside of us. Our view of who we are can completely block out the purpose for which we were made. We are the visible to the invisible in the lives of the people around us. Are you reflecting the sun or are you blocking it?
In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven.
Last night at Bible study I had the great opportunity to talk to some of the 2-8CAV Soldiers about the importance of letting God's purpose for your life come through in everything that you do. It is such a profoundly simple concept. God made you... for this... right now. He's not waiting for you to be someone else or become something else. He's ready for you now. But, we get in the way.
It's like the moon. This little tiny satellite of the earth floating a short distance away (by space standards) reflects the light from the sun every evening. It becomes a part of a larger system by bringing light even when the sun is out of view. So now, this huge, massive, and substantial force to our universe is being broadcast by the tiny, insignificant, rock of a moon. But, what happens when the moon passes in front of the sun? Eclipse. It blocks the entire thing. It stops the light. It reverses its purpose.
We are like the moon that way. We can choose to reflect the light of God in our lives every single day or, we can choose to block people's view of the light that is inside of us. Our view of who we are can completely block out the purpose for which we were made. We are the visible to the invisible in the lives of the people around us. Are you reflecting the sun or are you blocking it?
Wednesday, April 13, 2016
14Apr16
1 Samuel 17:45
David said to the Philistine, "You come against me with sword and spear and javelin, but I come against you in the name of the LORD Almighty, the God of the armies of Israel, whom you have defied."
Most of us know the story of David and Goliath. It has probably been dissected, analyzed, and explained more times than we can count. But, there is a reason people go to this portion of Scripture over and over again. It is the timeless tail of good versus evil. Right versus wrong. Oppressed versus oppressor. Are you David or Goliath in this story? Yup, I went there pretty quickly today. Are you coming at your battles with the weapons you have forged for yourself or are you trusting in God to defeat the enemy for you? A lot of times we want to think our cause is just but, we are fighting all by ourselves. We want to think that we are the victim when we are really fighting against the will of God for ourselves or for others. If you want victory then ensure you are lined up with God's battles and not the ones of your making. Make sure you are walking in the grace and power of God and not in your own strength. God is faithful and can slay giants! What are you battling against today? Is it a conflict of your own making or is it something you can go against in the name of the LORD?
David said to the Philistine, "You come against me with sword and spear and javelin, but I come against you in the name of the LORD Almighty, the God of the armies of Israel, whom you have defied."
Most of us know the story of David and Goliath. It has probably been dissected, analyzed, and explained more times than we can count. But, there is a reason people go to this portion of Scripture over and over again. It is the timeless tail of good versus evil. Right versus wrong. Oppressed versus oppressor. Are you David or Goliath in this story? Yup, I went there pretty quickly today. Are you coming at your battles with the weapons you have forged for yourself or are you trusting in God to defeat the enemy for you? A lot of times we want to think our cause is just but, we are fighting all by ourselves. We want to think that we are the victim when we are really fighting against the will of God for ourselves or for others. If you want victory then ensure you are lined up with God's battles and not the ones of your making. Make sure you are walking in the grace and power of God and not in your own strength. God is faithful and can slay giants! What are you battling against today? Is it a conflict of your own making or is it something you can go against in the name of the LORD?
Tuesday, April 12, 2016
13Apr16
Proverbs 12:8
There is one whose rash words are like sword thrusts, but the tongue of the wise brings healing.
Our words have so much power. In our lives. In our relationships. In our workplace. It amazes me when I watch some people try to motivate others through degrading remarks or through fear. Neither of these have a lasting impact or get the result that is intended. Instead they damage. They leave lasting marks on the souls of people. Yes, your words have the potential to scar someone's soul. But, we don't mind that much. We go into conversations like they are a battleground to be won or lost. When a conversation becomes a competition rather than communication no one wins.
But, there is an opposing force to the words of anger, blame, and death... healing. Researchers have said that it takes five positive interactions to recover from one negative one. 5:1. That's not good odds in our favor. It's no wonder we walk around in a haze of depression, mourning the loss of ourselves, hoping that someone somewhere will love us. That's why I love reading the Bible daily. It's my love story. It tells me who I can be and how much I am loved. It tips the scales for me. But, what is coming out of your mouth? Are your words killing the people around you just so you can accomplish some task that is eternally meaningless or are you storing up treasure by investing in the lives of others and building them up?
If you keep running into arguments headlong and walk away feeling empty... this is why. Stop trying to win at all costs, bury the ego a bit, and find the right answer instead of just your answer. Bring healing. Be wise.
There is one whose rash words are like sword thrusts, but the tongue of the wise brings healing.
Our words have so much power. In our lives. In our relationships. In our workplace. It amazes me when I watch some people try to motivate others through degrading remarks or through fear. Neither of these have a lasting impact or get the result that is intended. Instead they damage. They leave lasting marks on the souls of people. Yes, your words have the potential to scar someone's soul. But, we don't mind that much. We go into conversations like they are a battleground to be won or lost. When a conversation becomes a competition rather than communication no one wins.
But, there is an opposing force to the words of anger, blame, and death... healing. Researchers have said that it takes five positive interactions to recover from one negative one. 5:1. That's not good odds in our favor. It's no wonder we walk around in a haze of depression, mourning the loss of ourselves, hoping that someone somewhere will love us. That's why I love reading the Bible daily. It's my love story. It tells me who I can be and how much I am loved. It tips the scales for me. But, what is coming out of your mouth? Are your words killing the people around you just so you can accomplish some task that is eternally meaningless or are you storing up treasure by investing in the lives of others and building them up?
If you keep running into arguments headlong and walk away feeling empty... this is why. Stop trying to win at all costs, bury the ego a bit, and find the right answer instead of just your answer. Bring healing. Be wise.
Monday, April 11, 2016
12Apr16
Philippians 4:8
Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things.
I have known many people in my life. Many different types of people. But, the ones that I have the most trouble with are the people that you could put in the middle of the most beautiful field of flowers, on the perfect sunny day, and they would complain about the dirt under their feet. These people always find the negative in every situation. Some of us call them "Debbie Downers." But, I don't think that's fair (mostly because my mom's name is Debi). What really bugs me about these people is that if you are around them for any period of time... you become them. You start to think like them. You start to see the dirt instead of the field of flowers you are standing in. It takes effort to change your perception back to seeing the beauty around you.
In the Army we call this, "hunting the good stuff." The Bible thought of this long before the Army existed. God knows that we have a tendency to see the negative in situations, that our default mode is dark, that it takes effort to see the good stuff. We have to be intentional about what we are allowing our thoughts to dwell on. Of course your situation is going to suck if all you can see is the painful parts!
One of the things I like to do when I start to lose sight of the good things in my day to day life is to actually write it down. I make a list right before I go to bed of only the good stuff. I don't write down the bad things because I don't WANT to remember that. I don't want my life to be defined by negative experiences every day. Instead I want my life to be punctuated by the great things God brings my way every single day. I want to think about these things. What are you thinking about? What thoughts are you allowing to drive your day?
Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things.
I have known many people in my life. Many different types of people. But, the ones that I have the most trouble with are the people that you could put in the middle of the most beautiful field of flowers, on the perfect sunny day, and they would complain about the dirt under their feet. These people always find the negative in every situation. Some of us call them "Debbie Downers." But, I don't think that's fair (mostly because my mom's name is Debi). What really bugs me about these people is that if you are around them for any period of time... you become them. You start to think like them. You start to see the dirt instead of the field of flowers you are standing in. It takes effort to change your perception back to seeing the beauty around you.
In the Army we call this, "hunting the good stuff." The Bible thought of this long before the Army existed. God knows that we have a tendency to see the negative in situations, that our default mode is dark, that it takes effort to see the good stuff. We have to be intentional about what we are allowing our thoughts to dwell on. Of course your situation is going to suck if all you can see is the painful parts!
One of the things I like to do when I start to lose sight of the good things in my day to day life is to actually write it down. I make a list right before I go to bed of only the good stuff. I don't write down the bad things because I don't WANT to remember that. I don't want my life to be defined by negative experiences every day. Instead I want my life to be punctuated by the great things God brings my way every single day. I want to think about these things. What are you thinking about? What thoughts are you allowing to drive your day?
Sunday, April 10, 2016
11APR16
Isaiah 42:9
"Behold, the former things have come to pass, and new things I now declare; before they spring forth I tell you of them."
I love predictability. Routine makes me feel secure. I think that was a big appeal to the Army when I decided to join. If something pops up that doesn't fit into my nice little box, into my habits and plan, then I get frustrated and I try to make it fit as best as I can. Sometimes that's like trying to shove a square peg into a round hole... pretty ludicrous. But, I do it because I like the control that I have. But, my control is simply an illusion. Every single day someone makes a decision that impacts my life in a way that I cannot control. On a higher level I can't even start to fathom the fact that my illusion of control is just an affront to the Sovereignty of God; and still I try to control, to plan, to force my will on my life.
A huge problem happens when we try to fit God into that little box we've made for him in our lives. He doesn't fit in our little boxes. He's so much bigger. But, we like our predictability so, we limit what God can or cannot do in our lives. God is the same yesterday, today, and forever... doing new things. We like to think God interacts with us and intersects with our lives in the same ways that He always has. What if He wants to do something new in you? What if He wants to take you someplace new? What if He wants more? Are you going to let Him out of the box you've created for Him in your life and let it happen or are you going to only settle for the expected, routine, and predictable God? One way is comfortable... one way is powerful. How do you see God in your life today? Is He doing something new?
"Behold, the former things have come to pass, and new things I now declare; before they spring forth I tell you of them."
I love predictability. Routine makes me feel secure. I think that was a big appeal to the Army when I decided to join. If something pops up that doesn't fit into my nice little box, into my habits and plan, then I get frustrated and I try to make it fit as best as I can. Sometimes that's like trying to shove a square peg into a round hole... pretty ludicrous. But, I do it because I like the control that I have. But, my control is simply an illusion. Every single day someone makes a decision that impacts my life in a way that I cannot control. On a higher level I can't even start to fathom the fact that my illusion of control is just an affront to the Sovereignty of God; and still I try to control, to plan, to force my will on my life.
A huge problem happens when we try to fit God into that little box we've made for him in our lives. He doesn't fit in our little boxes. He's so much bigger. But, we like our predictability so, we limit what God can or cannot do in our lives. God is the same yesterday, today, and forever... doing new things. We like to think God interacts with us and intersects with our lives in the same ways that He always has. What if He wants to do something new in you? What if He wants to take you someplace new? What if He wants more? Are you going to let Him out of the box you've created for Him in your life and let it happen or are you going to only settle for the expected, routine, and predictable God? One way is comfortable... one way is powerful. How do you see God in your life today? Is He doing something new?
Thursday, April 7, 2016
08APR16
1 Thessalonians 5:11
Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing.
I want to do something a little different today. Every weekend here in Korea the Division Commander gives us a "Word of the Weekend" that focuses us on a certain safety feature for the weekend to keep us out of trouble. Whenever someone asks what the word of the weekend is you have to say that word so that the leadership knows that the message made it down to the Soldiers. I would like to give you all a CHAPLAIN word of the weekend...
Encouragement.
My word of the weekend comes with a challenge. I challenge you to say something positive or encouraging to everyone you talk to today. Every. Single. Person. When you start a conversation the first thing you say is something positive. Dig deep. Find it in you to see them how God sees them and let them know they have something worth wile in them. You don't have to tell the same person something every time you see them today but, once a day this weekend per person. Try it. See how people respond. See how it changes your start to situations. See how it opens your eyes to people and their worth. I CHALLENGE you! Can you do this?
Encouragement.
Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing.
I want to do something a little different today. Every weekend here in Korea the Division Commander gives us a "Word of the Weekend" that focuses us on a certain safety feature for the weekend to keep us out of trouble. Whenever someone asks what the word of the weekend is you have to say that word so that the leadership knows that the message made it down to the Soldiers. I would like to give you all a CHAPLAIN word of the weekend...
Encouragement.
My word of the weekend comes with a challenge. I challenge you to say something positive or encouraging to everyone you talk to today. Every. Single. Person. When you start a conversation the first thing you say is something positive. Dig deep. Find it in you to see them how God sees them and let them know they have something worth wile in them. You don't have to tell the same person something every time you see them today but, once a day this weekend per person. Try it. See how people respond. See how it changes your start to situations. See how it opens your eyes to people and their worth. I CHALLENGE you! Can you do this?
Encouragement.
Wednesday, April 6, 2016
07Apr16
1 Kings 19:3-4
Elijah was afraid and ran for his life. When he came to Beersheba in Judah, he left his servant there, while he himself went a day's journey into the wilderness. He came to a broom bush, sat down under it and prayed that he might die. "I have had enough, Lord," he said. "Take my life; I am no better than my ancestors."
The problem of depression and suicide is one that the church community doesn't like to talk about a whole lot. We like to do one of two things with it. We either will say, "You wouldn't be depressed if you were living right" or, "That's a problem for the mental health community." But, Elijah's bout with depression and suicidal ideations shows us something very different. First of all this is a conversation that needs to happen. If one of the greatest prophets of the Old Testament wanted to lay down and die then why would we ignore the very real presence of this in the church today? It's real. It's a struggle and I believe it is one that God wants to rescue people from in a variety of ways.
If you keep reading in this passage Elijah lays down to "sleep" after this. This is imagery for death. But, God sends him and angel... literally and angel. This angel visits him twice and you know what the angel does? It makes him eat! Depression can be a very real physiological problem for people. Then after Elijah has eaten God shows him His presence. God will reveal himself in your darkest times. Finally God sends Elijah a man named Elisha to be his disciple. God brings people into our lives to help us continue on and show up purpose.
If you or someone you know is struggling with depression don't ignore it. God has given us resources like no other nation before us. He has given us physical help, sometimes in the form of medications or dietary fixes. He has given us his presence in the form of the church and His Spirit. He has given us purpose and people in our lives to support us. Don't do this alone. God wants you to overcome and He has an amazing plan for you. If Elijah struggled and overcame this so can you!
Elijah was afraid and ran for his life. When he came to Beersheba in Judah, he left his servant there, while he himself went a day's journey into the wilderness. He came to a broom bush, sat down under it and prayed that he might die. "I have had enough, Lord," he said. "Take my life; I am no better than my ancestors."
The problem of depression and suicide is one that the church community doesn't like to talk about a whole lot. We like to do one of two things with it. We either will say, "You wouldn't be depressed if you were living right" or, "That's a problem for the mental health community." But, Elijah's bout with depression and suicidal ideations shows us something very different. First of all this is a conversation that needs to happen. If one of the greatest prophets of the Old Testament wanted to lay down and die then why would we ignore the very real presence of this in the church today? It's real. It's a struggle and I believe it is one that God wants to rescue people from in a variety of ways.
If you keep reading in this passage Elijah lays down to "sleep" after this. This is imagery for death. But, God sends him and angel... literally and angel. This angel visits him twice and you know what the angel does? It makes him eat! Depression can be a very real physiological problem for people. Then after Elijah has eaten God shows him His presence. God will reveal himself in your darkest times. Finally God sends Elijah a man named Elisha to be his disciple. God brings people into our lives to help us continue on and show up purpose.
If you or someone you know is struggling with depression don't ignore it. God has given us resources like no other nation before us. He has given us physical help, sometimes in the form of medications or dietary fixes. He has given us his presence in the form of the church and His Spirit. He has given us purpose and people in our lives to support us. Don't do this alone. God wants you to overcome and He has an amazing plan for you. If Elijah struggled and overcame this so can you!
Tuesday, April 5, 2016
06Apr16
Genesis 3:12-13
The man said, "The woman whom you gave to be with me, she gave me fruit of the tree, and I ate." Then the Lord God said to the woman, "What is this that you have done?" The woman said, "The serpent deceived me, and I ate."
I wouldn't be this way if you didn't... I wouldn't do that if you weren't... This wouldn't have happened if you would have... It's not my fault... It's your fault... It's his fault. Blame. It's something we humans have dealt with in our relationships since the beginning of time. We couch our pain in blame. We try so very hard to avoid taking responsibility for hurt and wrong. It's so much easier just to blame someone else. The thing about blame is that, at its core, it is past. It is our attempt to take what we are currently facing and put it in the past instead of owning the moment.
There are so many times in my life that I can look back on and see myself standing there trying to figure out who to blame rather than how to solve the problem. We do this all the time. We put finding the blame ahead of finding the solution. I see it at work. I see it in marriages frequently. Rather than trying to focus on future goals, present problems, or past lessons learned all they want to do it fight over whose fault it is. This didn't work for Adam and Eve in the garden and it doesn't work for us now. No matter who the facts point to as the person to blame we are all guilty. We all have done something that we should not be getting away with. We escaped blame. But, what we can't escape is consequence. Adam and Eve were still kicked out of paradise. We still have a problem to solve. We still have a marriage to nurture. So today, quit the blame game and step up to the plate. Work on what is broken in the now and focus on where you want to be in the future. Let the grudges and hatred go where they belong... in the past.
The man said, "The woman whom you gave to be with me, she gave me fruit of the tree, and I ate." Then the Lord God said to the woman, "What is this that you have done?" The woman said, "The serpent deceived me, and I ate."
I wouldn't be this way if you didn't... I wouldn't do that if you weren't... This wouldn't have happened if you would have... It's not my fault... It's your fault... It's his fault. Blame. It's something we humans have dealt with in our relationships since the beginning of time. We couch our pain in blame. We try so very hard to avoid taking responsibility for hurt and wrong. It's so much easier just to blame someone else. The thing about blame is that, at its core, it is past. It is our attempt to take what we are currently facing and put it in the past instead of owning the moment.
There are so many times in my life that I can look back on and see myself standing there trying to figure out who to blame rather than how to solve the problem. We do this all the time. We put finding the blame ahead of finding the solution. I see it at work. I see it in marriages frequently. Rather than trying to focus on future goals, present problems, or past lessons learned all they want to do it fight over whose fault it is. This didn't work for Adam and Eve in the garden and it doesn't work for us now. No matter who the facts point to as the person to blame we are all guilty. We all have done something that we should not be getting away with. We escaped blame. But, what we can't escape is consequence. Adam and Eve were still kicked out of paradise. We still have a problem to solve. We still have a marriage to nurture. So today, quit the blame game and step up to the plate. Work on what is broken in the now and focus on where you want to be in the future. Let the grudges and hatred go where they belong... in the past.
Monday, April 4, 2016
05Apr16
Judges 10:13-14
Yet you have forsaken me and served other gods; therefore I will save you no more. Go and cry out to the gods whom you have chosen; let them save you in the time of your distress.
When I was in college I had a friend that was dating this girl. He was head over heels for her but, anyone from the outside could tell that she was bad news. She treated him like a novelty and used him up. She compromised his ideals and consistently took and took and took. But, still he was devoted to her. When we'd try and talk to him about her he would just say, "But, I love her. She needs me." Until one day he found out that she had been cheating on him... again, and that she had decided to be with the other guy. It devastated him. But, he came to the realization that he couldn't force her to love him and ultimately realized that she never deserved his love and affections. Over some time he healed. Then she came back. She needed him. She missed him. She was in trouble. She had gotten pregnant by the other guy and he left her. She needed a real man. But, it was too late. Her character had been shown and my friend was able to say, "no. You made a choice and trusted the wrong man. "
I share this simply because we are that girl a lot of times. We have the love of God. The one who gave all for us just to show his love. Yet, all we do is use and abuse that relationship. We consistently cheat on Him by choosing other gods in our lives and putting created things before the Creator. In this passage God shows us that we do have a choice and He will honor that choice by allow us to put our faith in other things. The problem with that is that when we put our faith in other things we will only have that to rely on when the troubles come. Can we be surprised when God doesn't come running in to save the day when we spend all our time with someone else? Can we be surprised when God doesn't act when we haven't even been bothered to ask? Who are you relying on today?
But, there is good news. Read on. The rest of the passage shows that, unlike my friend, God is so forgiving and so loving and so unafraid of our betrayal that He comes to their rescue when they turn back to Him. He doesn't erase the consequences of their initial choices but, He sets things right and protects His people. Who will you choose to love today?
Yet you have forsaken me and served other gods; therefore I will save you no more. Go and cry out to the gods whom you have chosen; let them save you in the time of your distress.
When I was in college I had a friend that was dating this girl. He was head over heels for her but, anyone from the outside could tell that she was bad news. She treated him like a novelty and used him up. She compromised his ideals and consistently took and took and took. But, still he was devoted to her. When we'd try and talk to him about her he would just say, "But, I love her. She needs me." Until one day he found out that she had been cheating on him... again, and that she had decided to be with the other guy. It devastated him. But, he came to the realization that he couldn't force her to love him and ultimately realized that she never deserved his love and affections. Over some time he healed. Then she came back. She needed him. She missed him. She was in trouble. She had gotten pregnant by the other guy and he left her. She needed a real man. But, it was too late. Her character had been shown and my friend was able to say, "no. You made a choice and trusted the wrong man. "
I share this simply because we are that girl a lot of times. We have the love of God. The one who gave all for us just to show his love. Yet, all we do is use and abuse that relationship. We consistently cheat on Him by choosing other gods in our lives and putting created things before the Creator. In this passage God shows us that we do have a choice and He will honor that choice by allow us to put our faith in other things. The problem with that is that when we put our faith in other things we will only have that to rely on when the troubles come. Can we be surprised when God doesn't come running in to save the day when we spend all our time with someone else? Can we be surprised when God doesn't act when we haven't even been bothered to ask? Who are you relying on today?
But, there is good news. Read on. The rest of the passage shows that, unlike my friend, God is so forgiving and so loving and so unafraid of our betrayal that He comes to their rescue when they turn back to Him. He doesn't erase the consequences of their initial choices but, He sets things right and protects His people. Who will you choose to love today?
Sunday, April 3, 2016
04Apr16
2 Kings 2:14
Then he took the cloak of Elijah that had fallen from him and struck the water, saying, "Where is the Lord, the God of Elijah?" And when he had struck the water, the water was parted to the one side and to the other, and Elisha went over.
Yesterday I got the chance to preach at Stanley chapel for the second time since being here and I started a two part series on "Superheroes." One of the references I made was to Elisha and his parting of the waters with dirty laundry. This passage of Scripture has a lot more depth to it though. Elisha is standing there with the cloak of his mentor in his hand after watching him being whisked away in a fiery chariot to heaven. There's got to be a million questions in his mind at that point. So much that needed explaining. But, what is the first thing he asks? "Where is the Lord?" Now that the guy who had led him is gone he wasn't sure if God was still with him. He wasn't sure of God's plan for him. He seems lost and a little confused standing in front of a river that needs crossing. He reaches out for something that he can cling to and a way to know that God is with him.
This week we have Stallions crossing a literal river in training. But, the question I want to ask is not, "can you cross the river?" It's "how will you cross the river?" Elisha could have resigned himself to just doing everything Elijah did in the flesh and be a good man but, at that moment he reached out to God to become more than that. He reached out to God to allow Him to cross the river in a way that didn't seem possible. God is the God of impossible. What river are you trying to walk around right now? What river are you trying to cross with your own strength? Have you asked God to part the waters for you or is that just too crazy of a thought for you? Allow God to do what He will in your life. Ask Him where He is and He will show you.
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Then he took the cloak of Elijah that had fallen from him and struck the water, saying, "Where is the Lord, the God of Elijah?" And when he had struck the water, the water was parted to the one side and to the other, and Elisha went over.
Yesterday I got the chance to preach at Stanley chapel for the second time since being here and I started a two part series on "Superheroes." One of the references I made was to Elisha and his parting of the waters with dirty laundry. This passage of Scripture has a lot more depth to it though. Elisha is standing there with the cloak of his mentor in his hand after watching him being whisked away in a fiery chariot to heaven. There's got to be a million questions in his mind at that point. So much that needed explaining. But, what is the first thing he asks? "Where is the Lord?" Now that the guy who had led him is gone he wasn't sure if God was still with him. He wasn't sure of God's plan for him. He seems lost and a little confused standing in front of a river that needs crossing. He reaches out for something that he can cling to and a way to know that God is with him.
This week we have Stallions crossing a literal river in training. But, the question I want to ask is not, "can you cross the river?" It's "how will you cross the river?" Elisha could have resigned himself to just doing everything Elijah did in the flesh and be a good man but, at that moment he reached out to God to become more than that. He reached out to God to allow Him to cross the river in a way that didn't seem possible. God is the God of impossible. What river are you trying to walk around right now? What river are you trying to cross with your own strength? Have you asked God to part the waters for you or is that just too crazy of a thought for you? Allow God to do what He will in your life. Ask Him where He is and He will show you.
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