Sensing the Lord's Presence

Taste and see that the Lord is good;
blessed is the one who takes refuge in him.  Psalm 34:8 (NIV)

Information infiltrates our brains via the five senses. Personalities made up of emotion and willpower take shape around sight, sound, smell, taste, and touch. These same senses enable our souls to acknowledge our Maker. God created us to experience His presence.

Made in the image of God, our souls are precious to Him from conception through eternity. As we walk the earth, our Creator yearns for us to know Him personally. In spite of His desire to develop relationships with His creation, God has granted us choice. He waits for us to decide.

It’s human nature not to be convinced of truth until we’ve witnessed it—we think we must see to believe. But what if we’re blind? It’s challenging to live without any of our senses; however, blindness means living in a dark world without the beauty of nature or the vision of family and friends. With no perception of surroundings, movement becomes limited. Maybe that’s the reason Scripture contains several stories of blind beggars. We can visualize their helplessness.

Reading the story of blind Bartimaeus in the tenth chapter of Mark triggers our senses. We see him sitting on the roadside begging. We hear him constantly cry for help. His pleas may activate compassion within us. His stench likely reaches our noses. 

When Jesus walked near him, Bartimaeus cried, “Have mercy on me, Son of David.”

Many people scolded him for bothering Jesus, but he pleaded all the more. Jesus stopped and commissioned his disciples to summon the blind man. Once they called out to him, Bartimaeus jumped to his feet and made his way to Jesus. Jesus asked him, “What do you want me to do for you?” 

The blind man said, “Rabbi, I want to see.” 

“Go,” said Jesus, “your faith has healed you.” (verses 46-52)

Bartimaeus suddenly gained his eyesight—his darkness became light. He responded with gratitude by following the One who had healed him. He dwelt near the presence of His Savior. He experienced the goodness of the Lord. 

But what about us today? We can’t see Jesus or physically follow Him. Maybe modern ideology has blinded us to ancient truths. Possibly we’re entrenched in a culture of concession to the whims of change. Perhaps we belong to churches assimilated with society. How can we know if the Lord is good? Can we experience His presence? Is it possible to walk by faith, not sight?

I’ll never forget the day I profoundly experienced God’s presence through daily devotions and prayer. I sat on my bed while my two-year-old napped in the room next to mine. Rest and quiet time were essential for me due to my overactive toddler. 

I had agonized all morning over the news of the day. An American embassy had been bombed in Beirut, Lebanon. Peacekeepers and soldiers alike had been killed. Stunned by the news, I sat and cried for all those affected. My mother’s heart broke over the thoughts of losing a child. Why, Lord, why do bad things happen? 

I picked up my daily devotional, looking for answers. Since I had missed a few days, I decided to start reading where I had left off. Although I thought I needed to read through to catch up to the current day, God in His perfect timing, knew otherwise. He answered me from the first message I read, beginning with the Scripture passage for that particular day. 

I sought the Lord, and he answered me;
he delivered me from all my fears.
Those who look to him are radiant;
their faces are never covered with shame.
This poor man called, and the Lord heard him;
he saved him out of all his troubles.  Psalm 34:4-6

Astonished, surprised, and in complete wonder over God’s response through His Word, I cried some more. Not with sad tears, but happy ones! Tears of joy! I felt the gracious love of a caring God. He had heard my cries and answered me. He had filled me with His peace. 

With renewed faith and devotion, I heeded Scripture as never before. My spiritual eyes had been opened to the goodness of the Lord. I had tasted and seen. Gratitude to Jesus poured from my lips.  

By seeking answers from God, I gained knowledge of His tenderheartedness. His words tasted sweet as honey. His promises unveiled my eyes. I encountered and felt His love. 

Bartimaeus surely experienced the same revelation, but in a most extreme way. With opened eyes, He came face to face with Jesus. Imagine that intense encounter. Can you envision the expressions of amazement from those who witnessed such a miracle? What a testament to the goodness of the Lord.

Has the spirit of this age blinded you to the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ? Are you sitting alone in a distressed state, consumed with worry? Does the uncertainty of your future fill you with fear? 

Cry out to Jesus. Appeal to His compassionate nature. Entreat Him not to leave you. Then trust Him to open your senses to His glory. Through the revelation of His promises, you will taste and see how good Jesus Christ is. His presence will give you peace. 

How sweet are Your words to my taste, Sweeter than honey to my mouth!  Psalm 119:103 (NIV)

““Improve your vision by choosing GOD’S TRUTH over human wisdom, by refusing to bow to immediate impulses and demands, by noticing the flow of Gods’ voice, and by asking Him to help. He loves to give sight to the blind.”
~Chris Tiegreen”

Praying Mothers

And we are sure of this, that he will listen to us whenever we ask him for anything in line with his will. And if we really know he is listening when we talk to him and make our requests, then we can be sure that he will answer us. 

1 John 5:14-15 (TLB)

I took this picture several hours after my daughter delivered a healthy baby boy. In the clouds, I saw an ear and it gave me assurance that God had heard our prayers.

My tears dripped into the dishwater as I stood over my sink. I fought intense anxiety building in my gut. “Lord, please deliver this baby and give my daughter peace,” I said.

Miles away, across many states, from early morning until late afternoon, my daughter had been suffering a difficult labor. But it didn’t matter how near or far, coronavirus had impeded a family gathering. While phone calls connected us, the cries of a mother-to-be pierced my heart.

My husband and I felt helpless. I experienced fatigue. But I knew my exhaustion didn’t exceed what my daughter endured. So I prayed. My family and friends prayed. In spite of many prayers, it appeared our intercessions had fallen on deaf ears. Where are you, God?

Finally the phone rang. My son-in-law relayed the good news. She did it. They had a son. We had a grandson. My son and daughter-in-law had a nephew. Their two children had a first cousin. I exhaled all my pent-up apprehension. Thank you, Lord. 

After several days, my daughter-in-law called to share a God-moment with me. On the day of our daughter's delivery, our daughter-in-law had felt the need to go inside her closet, get on her knees, and pray. She quickly texted her two prayer warrior friends, asking them to pray as well. Together, though miles apart, they appealed to our Heavenly Father for the welfare of mother and baby.

Once the delivery had occurred and we all understood the time frame surrounding the birth of our grandson, we realized the mighty hand of God at work in our lives. When I had begun to cry and give up, my daughter-in-law had gotten on her knees in obedience. At that very moment miles away in a hospital, an unborn baby boy encountered distress, his mother completely drained. The doctors and nurses were deciding whether to perform a c-section or extract him by vacuum.

God had listened and heard our heart-felt prayers. A small body of Christ had obeyed the call to pray. A faithful God had answered. And a new mother embraced a new life. Thank you, Jesus. 

We give thanks to our Heavenly Father for earthly fathers. But on this special day, we especially lift our praises to God for providing mothers. It’s a remarkable bond that connects mother and child.

Happy Mother’s Day to all mothers everywhere. Happy Mother’s Day to my dear daughter-in-law. And Happy First Mother’s Day to my darling daughter. 

When Clouds Gather, Eradicate Fear

“When we fear because our treasures have been stripped away, choose to treasure Jesus anyway.
~based on Matthew 6:19-34”

“Therefore, you should pray like this:

Our Father in heaven,
Your name be honored as holy.
Your kingdom come.
Your will be done
on earth as it is in heaven.
Give us today our daily bread.
And forgive us our debts,
as we also have forgiven our debtors.
And do not bring us into temptation,
but deliver us from the evil one.”
[For Yours is the kingdom and the power
and the glory forever. Amen.]  Matthew 6:9-13 (HCSB)

Several months have passed since a pandemic swept across our world. Has the disease been destroyed? Facts tell us no. Has fear been eradicated? Facts seem to say no. But hopefully you’ve had time to mull over your own worries and fears. Reading Jesus’ words from the sixth chapter of Matthew was a cure for my anxieties. It helped to calm my distress as I put it into practice. I pray my experience will encourage you as we continue together into the near future with uncertainty. 

Anxious emotions have materialized out of the social distancing directive. I can’t sleep. We’ve lost a lot of money in the stock market. Do we have enough food and supplies? What if I catch the virus? I sure hope no one in my family gets sick and dies. God, I am so afraid. 

My daughter immediately fretted over the delivery of her baby. My sister stressed about her job and began applying for another one. My nephews lost their jobs. My husband and his co-workers received pay cuts. Businesses shut down. Schools and universities shut down and resumed online. While grocery stores remained open, employees and customers exhibited apprehension. Quarantine changed our lives.

The initial fright of this pandemic caught everyone off guard. Panic seemed to escalate, as shock dissipated. Fear of the unknown now seems to multiply daily. Worry continues to prevent sleep. We are simply undone. 

And God says, “Do not fear. Don’t worry.”  

Is anyone listening? We’re trying desperately to fix our problems, find a cure, figure out a plan to survive instead of first following the instructions of God. We seem to have forgotten that He is God and we are not.

Through the years, people have been busily trying to achieve and receive more stuff all the while complaining of little time to accomplish everything. Priorities have become skewed. Modern norms have eclipsed the traditional family. Desire for possessions have exceeded desire for the One who supplies them. Churches have cruised into assimilation with culture instead of battling to stand firm on God’s truth. 

All of a sudden we have time. We have been forced to stop, to social distance, to stay inside, to settle into a new way of life for a while. And it’s tough. Many things of our lives have been stripped away while the beauty of nature has been brought to light. 

Daybreaks and twilights display designs of exquisite grandeur. Have you noticed them? Birds express melodious praises with warbles and trills day after day. Have you heard them? Spring has arrived and bounteous blooms of vivid splendor reveal new life. Have you seen them? Even though our human situation has drastically changed, nature presses on. All because Someone greater is in charge.

So Lord, give us this day our daily bread. Reciting this statement within the Lord’s Prayer may have become rote. Believing its truth requires trust. It’s evident from the sounds of chirping that God daily feeds the birds. Have you noticed their praise choruses rising up before dawn? Do we trust God for daily sustenance like the birds? Do we trust Him in the dark? 

And Jesus says, “You are worth more than the birds.”  

If God takes such good care of the birds, won’t He do the same for us? We are remarkably made, knit together since conception (Psalm 139). And throughout our lives, He offers provision. His Word assures us of His promises. So why worry? God knows what we need. 

God desires for us to seek first His righteousness and trust Him for our needs. If we worry about tomorrow instead of simply trusting for today, we create anxiety for ourselves. Daily troubles abound. Why add more to the day?

But do as I say, not as I do because honestly, I’m worried. My pregnant daughter lives in Southern California with her firefighter/paramedic husband. They are due to have their first baby in a few days. The “what ifs” keep welling up inside of us all. This virus has hindered my plans to meet my new grandson and help out my daughter as a new mother. I am mad. I am sad. I am fearful. 

And the Holy Spirit says to me, “Debbie, I offer perfect peace. Will you trust Me?”

As Jesus carried our sins to the cross, He also carried our worries. He put an end to fear. He destroyed those things that try to destroy us. He even defeated death. If He is so powerful and mighty over harmful things, why do we choose them over Him?

Are you afraid of this pandemic? Has it created worry about your future? Maybe you’ve lost treasures—a job, a home, money, or even a loved one. Most likely all of your plans have changed. What is your response? Are you worrying about this worldly situation or are you trusting and treasuring the One who controls it all? 

When worry begins to creep up within our souls, remember Jesus who gave His life to save us from all that the enemy sends to destroy us. Be still. Have faith. Trust in the power of an Almighty God. Know He is in complete control. 

“Whenever I feel my foot slipping, your faithful love steadies me, Lord. When my anxieties multiply, your comforting calms me down.
Psalm 94:18-19”

Renewed Faith, Joyful Heart

The ultimate resurrection—Jesus rose from the dead! Jesus Christ is risen today, Alleluia!* Because He lives, I can face tomorrow!* Yes and Amen!* 

With Jesus we can face anything. He died on a cross, carrying every evil scheme of the devil to defeat us. Jesus triumphed over sin, physical ailment, mental anguish, death, and even coronavirus. We too can conquer life’s miseries through Jesus our Savior. For God so loved the world that He gave His one and only Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have eternal life.* Through Scripture and song, we can shout for joy to a God who saves. 

Experiencing a resurrection, revitalization, or revival of anything yields joy, jubilation, triumph. Renewed faith, revived flowers/plants, reconstructed churches/houses, restored souls, returned prodigals, resuscitated lives, rekindled relationships—sorrow usually precedes life’s refreshment and reawakening. God breathes new life into our situations when we draw close to Him, when we humble ourselves and pray. 

I’ve prayed for my children since their birth. My prayers increased as they grew. Heart-felt prayers wrapped in tears poured from my lips when my daughter lost her way in life. I joined my prayers with other mournful mothers to set captives free. And we waited for God to work. 

God answers our prayers in His way and in His time. Some remedies are instantaneous and others evolve—all are reasons to rejoice. He turns tears of sadness into rivers of joy. 

I wept this holy week for me, my family, and this dying world. I pondered the pains my Savior endured for us all. And then I sobbed for joy over a Facebook post by my daughter. She has granted me permission to share her words, poignant and unedited. If you are suffering in any way, I pray you find comfort through her words of hope because of Jesus Christ. 

There are only a few more weeks of Randy and I being a family of two (well 3 including Goose, our dog). Jackson Lee will be here in no time and our little family will grow a little more. To bring a child into this world during this time with Coronavirus has been overwhelming! The things we have looked forward to, planned for during our first pregnancy is not working out the way we wanted. It’s sad to think that our families and friends will not be able to meet our lil man for a while. It’s devastating us! But I can’t wait to tell our little fighter what was happening in our world when he made his appearance. I can’t wait to tell him that his Daddy, my sweet husband was/is working the front lines as a paramedic firefighter serving his community and world, risking his life. The stress I know my husband is under has been unimaginable. I see it on his face, I feel it in his touch, but without fail he does it for our family and those he is helping. He goes to work for days with little sleep and helps those in need. Then comes home to me hoping and praying that he wasn’t exposed so that he doesn’t expose anything to us. The idea that he might not be able to be in the delivery room for the birth of our first child has been piercing. He is my person, my quiet storm, my peace, the good good thing my Lord brought into my life. During this time it has been disheartening to think about the future and condition our world is in. There is so much division, loneliness, depression, heartache, evil, disease, etc. It can weigh heavily on us at times and it can seem so dark, but I am constantly reminded of the brightest thing in my life….that is my Heavenly Father! He calms the storm in my heart, floods my mind with peace, gives me incredible strength. This world has so many beautiful things that we don’t see sometimes because it’s clouded by darkness, but I promise you Jesus shines brighter! Our faith and prayer through God has and will carry us through this time and every time after that. We will get through this and anything with the Way Maker, Miracle Worker, Promise Keeper, Light in the darkness! This has been on my heart for a while now. Stay safe!

May you experience a resurrection of sorts as you draw close to our Savior Jesus Christ. He died for us all. May we live everyday for Him. 

They will come and shout for joy on the heights of Zion;
they will be radiant with joy
because of the Lord’s goodness,
because of the grain, the new wine, the fresh oil,
and because of the young of the flocks and herds.
Their life will be like an irrigated garden,
and they will no longer grow weak from hunger.
Then the young woman will rejoice with dancing,
while young and old men rejoice together.
I will turn their mourning into joy,
give them consolation,
and bring happiness out of grief.
I will refresh the priests with an abundance,
and My people will be satisfied with My goodness.
This is the Lord’s declaration.  Jeremiah 31:12-14 (HCSB)

Amen. Come, Lord Jesus!

*footnotes

1. Jesus Christ is risen today, Alleluia!  Hymn lyrics written by Charles Wesley

2. Because He lives, I can face tomorrow!  Hymn lyrics written by Bill and Gloria Gaither

3. Yes and Amen!  2 Corinthians 1:20

4. For God so loved the world that He gave His one and only Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have eternal life.  John 3:16

Be Still

“If we dwell on a perceived threat, panic will take over. If we dwell on Christ, peace will prevail.
~Franklin Graham”

I’m a visual learner. I can listen to a speaker, take notes, and try to remember everything I’m hearing, but a displayed picture lingers in my mind creating prolonged memory. Now don’t get me wrong—I love words, reading and writing them, but an image speaks volumes. A picture expresses an understanding that can’t be explained any other way. A picture is worth a thousand words. 

That adage seems to be as old as time. It’s been credited to several people from across the globe. It’s been used by many people all over the world. It’s easily understood because a picture is worth a thousand words.

God expresses Himself to me with His artistic creations, the natural beauty within His heaven and earth. I’m compelled to pause and pay attention to Him. Have you ever taken time to stop, look, and listen for Him in your natural surroundings?

Suddenly many people of this world have time. We’ve had to halt hurried routines due to a pandemic. The eerie emptiness of stores, restaurants, businesses steeps fear and anxiety within many souls. Life and death hangs in the balance. Uncertainty crowds the future. Time stands still, giving us more of it than we want. 

What can we do with this time that’s been forced upon us? Be still. Allow the serenity of God to overcome the eeriness of society at a standstill. Look up and around at God’s beauty. Listen to the quiet. Read His words in Scripture and hear His heart. Rest in Him and receive His peace.

God is our refuge and strength,
    an ever-present help in trouble.
Therefore we will not fear, though the earth give way
    and the mountains fall into the heart of the sea,
though its waters roar and foam
    and the mountains quake with their surging.

There is a river whose streams make glad the city of God,
    the holy place where the Most High dwells.
God is within her, she will not fall;
    God will help her at break of day.
Nations are in uproar, kingdoms fall;
    he lifts his voice, the earth melts.

The Lord Almighty is with us;
    the God of Jacob is our fortress.

Come and see what the Lord has done,
    the desolations he has brought on the earth.
He makes wars cease
    to the ends of the earth.
He breaks the bow and shatters the spear;
    he burns the shields with fire.
He says, “Be still, and know that I am God;
    I will be exalted among the nations,
    I will be exalted in the earth.”

The Lord Almighty is with us;
    the God of Jacob is our fortress. Psalm 46 (NIV)

The heavens declare the glory of God,
and the sky proclaims the work of His hands.
Day after day they pour out speech;
night after night they communicate knowledge.
There is no speech; there are no words;
their voice is not heard.
Their message has gone out to all the earth,
and their words to the ends of the world.

In the heavens He has pitched a tent for the sun.
It is like a groom coming from the bridal chamber;
it rejoices like an athlete running a course.
It rises from one end of the heavens
and circles to their other end;
nothing is hidden from its heat.

The instruction of the Lord is perfect,
renewing one’s life;
the testimony of the Lord is trustworthy,
making the inexperienced wise.
The precepts of the Lord are right,
making the heart glad;
the command of the Lord is radiant,
making the eyes light up.
The fear of the Lord is pure,
enduring forever;
the ordinances of the Lord are reliable
and altogether righteous.
They are more desirable than gold—
than an abundance of pure gold;
and sweeter than honey,
which comes from the honeycomb.
In addition, Your servant is warned by them;
there is great reward in keeping them.

Who perceives his unintentional sins?
Cleanse me from my hidden faults.
Moreover, keep Your servant from willful sins;
do not let them rule over me.
Then I will be innocent
and cleansed from blatant rebellion.
May the words of my mouth
and the meditation of my heart
be acceptable to You,
Lord, my rock and my Redeemer. Psalm 19 (HCSB)

I exalt You, my God the King,
and praise Your name forever and ever.
I will praise You every day;
I will honor Your name forever and ever.

Yahweh is great and is highly praised;
His greatness is unsearchable.
One generation will declare Your works to the next
and will proclaim Your mighty acts.
I will speak of Your splendor and glorious majesty
and Your wonderful works.
They will proclaim the power of Your awe-inspiring acts,
and I will declare Your greatness.
They will give a testimony of Your great goodness
and will joyfully sing of Your righteousness. Psalm 145 (HCSB)

Hallelujah!

How good it is to sing to our God,
for praise is pleasant and lovely.

The Lord rebuilds Jerusalem;
He gathers Israel’s exiled people.
He heals the brokenhearted
and binds up their wounds.
He counts the number of the stars;
He gives names to all of them.
Our Lord is great, vast in power;
His understanding is infinite.
The Lord helps the afflicted
but brings the wicked to the ground.

Sing to the Lord with thanksgiving;
play the lyre to our God,
who covers the sky with clouds,
prepares rain for the earth,
and causes grass to grow on the hills.
He provides the animals with their food,
and the young ravens, what they cry for.

He is not impressed by the strength of a horse;
He does not value the power of a man.
The Lord values those who fear Him,
those who put their hope in His faithful love. Psalm 147:1-11 (HCSB)

Turn away from panic. Instead………

“The greatness of God’s power to create and design and form and mold and make and build and arrange defies the limits of our imagination. And since He created everything, there is nothing beyond His power to fix or mend or heal or restore.
~Anne Graham Lotz
”

PRAISE THE LORD!

You are My Hiding Place

Clouds enveloped the tall lit cross rising skyward alongside the hills. The overcast heavens seem to drape the earth with gloom. Even though another cloudy gray day loomed with despair, the noble symbol of Christ’s passion manifested a safe harbor for my soul. 

As I sat and gazed off in the distance at the cross, all the events of the past month came to mind. Sadness threatened to overwhelm me. I recalled sitting face to face with an anxious mother whose daughter had chosen to remain with a controlling boyfriend. The young woman was in danger and the mother had wanted to rescue her. Helplessly shedding tears together, we clung to the hope of Jesus Christ, our refuge.

Two weeks later, I got news of the death of a family member, my dad’s brother, a beloved uncle. With broken hearts, my sisters and I traveled eight hours to offer love and support to his wife and children and their families. We understood their pain, having lost both of our parents. Together we all grieved his passing from us, but celebrated his eternal life with Jesus. His earthly example of a true Christ follower emboldened us all to seek shelter through Jesus. 

The eight hour return trip home coupled with sorrow caused fatigue in my body, giving way to the pains of degenerative discs and sciatica. The numbing pain throughout my back, hip, left leg and foot threatened to remove my focus from God. I cried out to Him for help and I know He heard my pleas. “You’re my sanctuary, Lord God, help me with this pain,” I said. 

And then there is this coronavirus that the entire world is reeling from. The uncertainty of it all is wreaking havoc on our daily lives. But strength and calm can be found through belief in Jesus Christ. He is near to those who call on Him.

One of the greatest kings of all time, King David, experienced profuse hardships. Whether running for his life from men who desired to kill him or suffering heartache from the death of his baby conceived in sin, David understood fear and pain. And yet he acknowledged the power of Almighty God. David’s words of anguish as well as praise poured from his heart to God’s heart in psalms and spiritual songs. Because they ring true in everyday life, readers across the centuries have been able to speak David’s words back to God and find solace. 

Therefore let all the faithful pray to you
while you may be found;
surely the rising of the mighty waters
will not reach them.
You are my hiding place;
you will protect me from trouble
and surround me with songs of deliverance.  Psalm 32:6-7 (NIV)

Keep me as the apple of your eye; hide me in the shadow of your wings.  Psalm 17:8 (NIV)

For in the day of trouble he will keep me safe in his dwelling; he will hide me in the shelter of his sacred tent and set me high upon a rock.  Psalm 27:5 (NIV)

Oh the conviction and comfort expressed in those passages. David trusted in the Lord, even in the midst of bleak circumstances. He recognized the perfect power of the Lord God Almighty. He offered his moments of doubt to the One he trusted. He hid in the shelter of his Protector and Provider. And God delivered his soul from the angst that surrounded him, filling him with peace. 

When we trust God in the middle of our situations, He envelops us with His shelter of calm. The mother I sat with trusted God through her tears. She believed God to be in control and gained strength from God’s promises. The trust in God exhibited by my grieving family fortified all those who came to support them. We lifted up poignant praise to the One who strengthened us all. While continuing to suffer pain in my body, I am gaining strength from the promises of God. He is my hiding place. And this corona thing—we just must trust! Trust in God to surround us with songs of deliverance.

Right now I am gazing off in the distance, finding no cross. It is hidden from my sight. But I know it’s there, just as I know my Savior Jesus Christ infuses His strength into my soul. I will not fear though the earth give way. Instead I will trust God to deliver me. When troubles come my way, I declare Him to be my hiding place. 

“Rescue me from my enemies, Lord, for I hide myself in you.
Psalm 143:9”

Study to Show Yourself Approved

Walking, running, lifting weights—many of us put forth physical effort to improve and sustain our health and fitness. Reading, studying, staying informed—we may even strive to keep our minds active. What about spiritual exercise? Have you ever considered the importance of staying spiritually fit? What does it look like to be spiritually out of shape? 

Total fatigue. To be spiritually weak is to be completely exhausted. We can’t do life on our own. We try time and time again. It may appear we’re successful, but eventually all falls apart. External things may seem to be working, yet inside our spiritually out of shape souls, we’re dying, crying, and lying to ourselves that we’re okay. We need a Savior.

I discovered my need for a Savior when I became a mother. From infant to toddler, my firstborn slept little and moved constantly while I struggled to keep up with him. Rarely could I boast any accomplishments except tending to him. Body, mind, and soul—all of me grew weary day by day. Drained of energy, I lacked the willpower to be an effective wife and mother until I heeded my mother-in-law’s advice.  

“Why don’t you wake up before him and spend some quiet time with God. Read your Bible and pray,” she said. 

How could I to wake up any earlier when I barely slept enough at night? As crazy as her suggestion seemed to me, I decided to try it for a few days. Even though I endeavored daily to rise from sleep, sitting still with an open Bible and studying God’s Word empowered me. 

Soon I began to hunger after an everyday portion of God’s Word. Every single morning He delivered. With God’s truth embedded in my soul, I determined to gracefully manage each waking hour. Did my son’s schedule change? Absolutely not! Did I transform into a perfect wife and mother? Assuredly no! But I faced all challenges with a new lease on life. Building spiritual muscles fortified me.

Becoming spiritually fit involves studying the truth, standing on the Word of God, believing in and following after Jesus, the Savior of the world. It requires avoiding godless chatter, foolish ideas, worldly arguments. It’s a righteous process intended for an earthly as well as a heavenly purpose. A daily dose of spiritual fitness works to sustain us in everything we do. God says: 

Don’t waste time arguing over foolish ideas and silly myths and legends. Spend your time and energy in the exercise of keeping spiritually fit. Bodily exercise is all right, but spiritual exercise is much more important and is a tonic for all you do. So exercise yourself spiritually, and practice being a better Christian because that will help you not only now in this life, but in the next life too. 1 Timothy 4:7-8 (TLB)

In this passage, the apostle Paul encouraged Timothy to avoid godlessness and train in godliness. He persuaded him to be diligent in word and deed. By handling the Word of God correctly, he could liberate himself and his followers with the knowledge of God’s truth and the repentance of sins.

This world is abuzz with words from thousands of people, some meant to help and others meant to hinder. Dwelling on meaningless and possibly harmful chatter distracts. Reckless notions entice people to run after the next best thing instead of exercising authenticity. Led astray from a firm foundation, we arrive in an unfamiliar place, helpless and hopeless. Is there an answer for this emptiness? 

The Word, the Word of God, the Word made flesh—this Word is Jesus Christ. He is the answer. He is our hope and our help. When we chose to spend time with Him in His Word, He releases His comfort into our souls. He strengthens our spiritual muscles. Waking up daily to sit at the Lord’s feet does not guarantee a perfect day. But relying on His strength fills us with His perfect peace, come what may. 

We live in an extremely seductive world. And yet, we have freedom to choose whether we will succumb to temptation. We can follow worldly guidelines or godly truth. Choosing poorly can result in dire consequences. Choosing wisely, we can anticipate the presence of a loving God in our lives who will strengthen us spiritually. 

Even while choosing the wisdom of God, we have a responsibility to rightly divide God’s Word. Not pick and choose what we want to hear. Not make it fit our lives, but cause our lives to fit it, to align ourselves with God’s will.

My life experiences have drawn me closer to God. Each day that I spend in prayer and the study of His Word, He fortifies my soul. As I grow in the knowledge of my Savior, my spiritual muscles strengthen. I am strong in the Lord because of His Word and prayer. 

Are you spiritually out of shape? Join me in an exercise program of the spirit. Open your Bible and study to show yourself approved. You’ll soon be walking in the strength of the Lord.

Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path.
Psalm 119:105

““A Bible that’s falling apart usually belongs to someone who isn’t.”
― Charles Spurgeon ”

Wait on the Lord

So he got up and went to his father.

“But while he was still a long way off, his father saw him and was filled with compassion for him; he ran to his son, threw his arms around him and kissed him.  Luke 15:20 (NIV)

The Israelite watchmen of old stood in towers or upon city walls, peering out across the land while protecting Jerusalem. These Hebrew guards kept watch and waited out their allotted time on the wall, observing everything and everyone around them. Watchmen on the walls first detected any approaching enemy or advancing army outside their borders, and then warned the people inside the city.

Several years ago, I stood on my imaginary wall, watching and waiting for the return of my daughter to her senses. Her poor life choices had affected our family. She had broken my heart and filled me with anguish. But I prayed. 

Each day I struggled and prayed. Eventually God answered me with a mission. He prompted me to notice mothers living with the same pain. He inspired a vision of military policemen standing guard, wearing armbands with the letters MP on it. Military police protect the lives and property of those in service to one’s country. For me that image symbolized mothers praying for their prodigals. Praying while waiting for God’s work to be accepted into the lives of their children and watching for their return to God and family. Mothers for prodigals was born. 

This labor of love—this watching with purpose based on the promises of God—requires faith and trust in the God who loves us! It demands constant vigilance (with wailing, if necessary) in humble prayer, giving up any personal dictates and whims while placing our children in the very capable hands of God. This hopeful waiting requires us to daily give our doubts to God and peacefully watch what He is doing, even if it looks messy!

Squandered his wealth in wild living describes the actions of the prodigal son in the book of Luke as told by Jesus. The son chose to ask his father for his inheritance. Can you imagine how the father must have felt? It’s almost as if the son wished him dead. What a crushing blow, but the father conceded. The son then left to pursue his selfish dreams. He made a choice as so many prodigals do, choosing from selfish gain and breaking his parents’ hearts. 

When he lost everything and came to the end of himself, he turned back and headed home. He knew he had sinned against his father. He desired forgiveness. While he was a long way off, his father saw him and ran to him, heaping hugs and kisses on him. The father had been watching and waiting, and I dare say praying for the return of his son. 

What joy for this watchman, this father who daily had waited patiently at his border for any sign of an answer to his many prayers. After experiencing a tremendous heart ache, can you imagine the joyful healing from a reunion with the very one who had caused anguish? 

You may be in a situation right now that feels nothing like triumph. Misery surrounds you as you wait and watch. I understand such feelings and so does God. He sees your hurting heart. He hears your agonizing cries. Don’t give up your position! Stand firm on His promises and trust in His perfect timing for your loved ones. Rely on His Word to strengthen and preserve you in peace. He is a faithful God! Keep watch with Him and wait.                                              

If your circumstances have turned around like the one in the story of the prodigal son, give God the glory but don’t stop praying. There are many prodigals and families who need prayers of intercession for protection and peace while God works within their lives. Continue the labor of watching for the return of God’s children to His loving truth. And praise Him while waiting!

Let’s lift up Scriptural battle cries to our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ as we watch and wait for His fulfilled promises.

But as for me, I watch in hope for the Lord,
I wait for God my Savior;
my God will hear me.  Micah 7:7 (NIV)

Out of the depths I cry to you, Lord;
Lord, hear my voice.
Let your ears be attentive
    to my cry for mercy.

If you, Lord, kept a record of sins,
    Lord, who could stand?

But with you there is forgiveness,
    so that we can, with reverence, serve you.

I wait for the Lord, my whole being waits,
    and in his word I put my hope.

I wait for the Lord
    more than watchmen wait for the morning,
    more than watchmen wait for the morning.

Israel, put your hope in the Lord,
    for with the Lord is unfailing love
    and with him is full redemption.

He himself will redeem Israel
    from all their sins.  Psalm 130 (NIV)

I have posted watchmen on your walls, Jerusalem; they will never be silent day or night. You who call on the Lord, give yourselves no rest......  Isaiah 62:6 (NIV)

“Be happy in your hope, stand your ground when you’re in trouble, and devote yourselves to prayer. 
Romans 12:12 (CEB)”

Who Am I To Judge?

“Do not judge so that you will not be judged. For in the way you judge, you will be judged; and by your standard of measure, it will be measured to you. Why do you look at the speck that is in your brother’s eye, but do not notice the log that is in your own eye?”  Matthew 7:1-3 (NASB)

Society’s current atmosphere reeks of a judgmental bent. We humans certainly feel authorized to point fingers and regard others as worse than ourselves. Are we qualified? What gives anyone the right to evaluate someone else’s character?

While many things of this world have evolved over time, human nature has remained the same. People continue to play judge and jury with the lives of other people, all the while neglecting personal sins. Are we qualified to judge others?

One definition of a judge is a judicial authority who decides cases in a court of law. But the lesser known definition of a judge is a person qualified to give an opinion on something. That clarification prompted me to reflect. Do I know enough about other people and their situations to judge them? Sometimes I act like I do.

I remember noticing a lady at my workplace who appeared extremely aloof. Every time I saw her in the hallway, she seemed to carry an attitude of superiority. I deemed her unsuitable to be my friend so in turn I acted antisocial. But who was I to judge her? How was I qualified to form an opinion when I didn’t even know her?

What remorse I experienced when I later worked side by side with this very woman. She extended compassion for her special needs students even though she lived with some difficult family issues at home. Why had I considered myself qualified to judge one of God’s children?

It’s extremely humbling when faced with our own sins. Suddenly the pointing finger turns inward. An Old Testament story about King David verifies that none of us have the right to scrutinize others’ faults until we’ve examined our own.

King David had lusted after another man’s wife, impregnated her, and plotted to cover up his misdeed. Her husband, one of David’s soldiers, was directed to the front lines of war and killed. Though David later married the woman named Bathsheba, God was very displeased and sent his prophet Nathan to address the issue.

Nathan told David a story about a rich man who had prepared a meal for a traveler. Instead of taking from his own abundant resources, the rich man had taken the solitary beloved lamb of a poor man and had prepared it for food. 

David expressed outrage. “As surely as the Lord lives, the man who did this deserves to die. He must pay for that lamb four times over, because he did such a thing and had no pity.”

“You are that man,” Nathan replied.  2 Samuel 11-12

Oh the shame David faced. He had rushed to judgment. With all the sin he had committed, was he qualified to judge the actions of the rich man? Because Nathan addressed David’s sin, David immediately humbled himself and repented. “I have sinned against the Lord,” he said, and asked for forgiveness. God called David “a man after His own heart” as a consequence of yielding to His will time and time again.

When people or events outside our personal lives don’t live up to our self-imposed standards, we judge. The most offensive sins we notice are committed by anyone but ourselves. We seem to regard ourselves as better than others until face to face with our own shortcomings. Why do we feel so qualified to judge other people when we can’t truly know their hearts?

“Don’t criticize, and then you won’t be criticized. For others will treat you as you treat them,” said Jesus. Matthew 7:1-2 TLB 

So in everything, do to others what you would have them do to you, for this sums up the Law and the Prophets. Matthew 7:12 NIV

Jesus knows hearts. He knows yours. He knows mine. And He longs for us to love each other as much as He loves us. He took His love to the cross and died for each one of us. He is qualified to judge.

Over and over again, the words of Jesus instruct us. Do we listen, learn, and love as He would have us do? Can we repent of our personal sins, stop judging others, and follow the heart of God? If we live like Jesus, we will be qualified to be called “people after God’s own heart.”

“It’s the Holy Spirit’s job to convict, God’s job to judge, and my job to love.
~Billy Graham
”

BE STILL AND KNOW

“God is our refuge and strength, a tested help in times of trouble. “Stand silent! Know that I am God! I will be honored by every nation in the world!” 
Psalm 46:1, 10 (TLB)”

Clouds hung heavy above me as I walked my dogs down the street. Gray skies depicted my mood. I felt bombarded by life’s twists and turns. “Enough already, Lord,” I cried out as I prayed. 

My prayer became one-sided as I poured out my needs. Unexpectedly I felt a tug on my arm from the dog leash in my hand. I had gotten ahead of my dogs. I turned around and noticed my old golden retriever sniffing some daisies. “Let’s go, come on, I’m in a hurry,” I said rather loudly.

I remembered an old cliche as he inhaled fragrances—stop and smell the roses. “God, you sure have a way of getting my attention,” I said. 

I stared in silence as my pet savored the scents in the air. God’s Word filled my heart and head.

BE STILL AND KNOW……THAT I AM GOD. 

“Okay, I hear you, Lord.”

I continued my walk in silence. My needs forgotten. The beauty of the earth all around me. Praises to my Creator filled my thoughts.

Thank you, Father God, for your eternal Word that stands firm in the heaven (Psalm 119:89). Your Word is alive and powerful (Hebrews 4:12). Your promises are pure (Psalm 12:6) and your Word is truth (John 17:17). You are Truth, Jesus (John 14:6), and the truth will set me free (John 8:32). Thank you, Lord. In Jesus’ name, AMEN. 

So what if life throws jabs? Am I going to tuck tail and run? Or stand firm and fight? Everything is not rosy all the time. There will be cloudy days, but the sun remains in the sky. I may experience troubles, but the Son of God stays by my side. Sorrow and joy are part of living and loving. Will I allow pain and pessimism to ruin my day, ruin me?

No. No! NO! If God stands with us, who or what can come against us?

What can we ever say to such wonderful things as these? If God is on our side, who can ever be against us? Since he did not spare even his own Son for us but gave him up for us all, won’t he also surely give us everything else?  Romans 8:31-32 (TLB)

Yes, things happen. The busyness of life distracts us. Peace fades. Things turn from gray to black, and quickly. Chaos begins to take hold. Clouded minds give rise to pain-filled hearts. Tears flow. Life seems unfair. And we wonder—where is God?

We should remember Who He is. He’s our Rescuer. Deliverer. Savior. Redeemer. Provider. Those clouds are the dust of His feet (Nahum 1:3). He is Immanuel, God with us (Isaiah 7:14). And He never leaves us (Hebrews 13:5). Is it possible we left Him?

Stop. Be still. Focus on the God of heaven and earth. Listen for His whisper. Lift up a prayer of praise to Him. Before too long, you’ll see Son rays beaming through those cloudy skies. 

“The Lord is good. When trouble comes, he is the place to go! And he knows everyone who trusts in him! 
Nahum 1:7 (TLB)”

What a Devoted God

Therefore the Lord Himself will give you a sign: Behold, a virgin will be with child and bear a son, and she will call His name Immanuel.  Isaiah 7:14 (NASB)

“Behold, the virgin shall be with child and shall bear a Son, and they shall call His name Immanuel,” which translated means, “God with us.”  Matthew 1:23 (NASB)

HAPPY BIRTHDAY, JESUS!

Many people around the world are still celebrating the birth of our Savior Jesus Christ. A baby’s birth is a miracle in itself, but Jesus’ birth is beyond miraculous. We should DAILY remember why Jesus was born, even after the celebrating. He came to earth to live with us. He came to earth to die for us. We are sinful creatures. He is our sinless Savior. When we repent, He redeems us. The cross represents our salvation. Praise God through Jesus Christ for His forgiveness, grace, and mercy. 

Immanuel—God is With Us

Only a devoted, loving Creator God would give up His throne on high
And come down to earth in the form of His own creation,
To be born as a babe and experience life with us!

What a marvelous God we serve!
He loves us!
Immanuel, God is with us!

Only a devoted, loving Rescuer God would humble Himself before men
And walk among the dregs of society with arms full of merciful grace
To break shackled chains of captivity and offer liberating freedom!

What a marvelous God we serve!
He loves us!
Immanuel, God is with us!

Only a devoted and loving Savior God would give His life away 
And allow evil men to beat Him senseless and nail Him to a cross,
To exchange His righteousness for the sins of the world!

What a marvelous God we serve!
He loves us!
Immanuel, God is with us!

Only a devoted, loving Faithful God would ascend back to His heavenly home
And yet daily be near to the hearts of people who continually cry out to Him,
To offer His comforting strength and promising peace!

What a marvelous God we serve!
He loves us!
Immanuel, God is with us!

Heavenly Father God, as 2020 gets underway, enable us to see clearly WHO you are and WHY you came to earth. When we understand your holy righteousness, our sin is made evident and we are humbled by your TRUTH. You gave your LIFE that we may live abundantly in the WAY you lived on earth. Through repentance on our part and forgiveness on your part, we are saved by the blood of Jesus Christ. Thank you, Lord Jesus, for salvation and eternal life. In your name, AMEN. 

Jesus answered, “I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.  John 14:6 (CEB)

 THANK YOU, JESUS!

Good News of Great Joy

She distributed to each one of us an 8 by 10 head shot and said, “Now turn them over.” My husband, my son, my daughter-in-law, and I began reading personalized handwritten notes. Silence filled the room while tears filled our eyes. As we passed around a kleenex box, we each were awestruck by the same realization—our daughter, sister, sister-in-law had figuratively “come home.” 

For four seemingly endless years, our family experienced tensions, arguments, and misery because of our daughter’s choices. Whether together or miles apart, the circumstances appeared hopeless. Daily Father God heard my prayers. Daily He comforted me. Yet without fail each holiday season brought dread instead of joy until Christmas 2008. No one could have imagined the wondrous offerings of apology. What a blessing to experience restoration. 

As tears subsided over the gift of our daughter’s return, our son and daughter-in-law handed my husband and me another gift. As we opened the present and pulled away the tissue paper, we caught sight of a first response pregnancy test, proclaiming positive results. Oh my—a grandchild! With overflowing tear ducts and wet cheeks, we passed the kleenex box around again and praised God for new life.

The good news overwhelmed me. My years of mourning exchanged for celebration. A restored relationship with my daughter—thank you God. The birth of a grandchild—doubly blessed!

Oh to experience new life. Over two thousand years ago, a new life was celebrated by Mary and Joseph, the angels, shepherds, and wise men. Jesus was born and the good news spread. I’m confident that happy tears flowed. Those who knew the word of God realized the long-awaited Messiah had come. God had faithfully kept His promise in His perfect timing. 

New life arrived from heaven to earth to fulfill God’s Word. New life arrived from heaven to earth to live with humanity. New life arrived from heaven to earth to ransom captives. New life arrived from heaven to earth to restore relationships. Praise God. Praise God for Jesus!

Receive the good news of Jesus the Messiah and celebrate life this Christmas. No matter if your situations are filled with dread or full of joy, celebrate! God is faithful to His promises.

Heavenly Father, I thank you for new life through Jesus Christ. As my family and I celebrate your birth this Christmas, we will also give you thanks for restoration with exceeding blessings. Thank you that my daughter and her husband will celebrate new life through the birth of their first child in April 2020. We offer our gratitude with songs of joy.

This Christmas may people all over the world hear with receptive hearts the good news of great joy. No matter their situations, may they find comfort in knowing the depth of your love—a love so full of sacrifice that they can be saved from their sins in order to live abundantly on earth and eternally in heaven. In Jesus’ name, AMEN.

“For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.
John 3:16”

Our Gift of Christmas

He’s a baby, small and helpless, vulnerable and dependent on his parents. Because he’s not able to walk, talk, or use his hands effectively, his cries signal his needs. They lovingly feed him, change his diapers, bathe him, dress him, put him to sleep, watch over him, and protect him. Whether male or female, we’ve all been that vulnerable. Can you imagine Jesus Christ, the Savior of the world, willing to be so defenseless?

Jesus gave up His power, His strength, and His authority to dwell on earth with the people He created. He allowed Himself to be born as a baby, taken care of by earthly parents. He grew up, learning from those in authority. He was a perfect example of humility. 

Jesus lived out His mission on earth in order to teach us how to live out our mission on earth. He introduced a heavenly perspective to those who listened to His teachings. He taught His followers how to die to themselves and their rights as He willingly died for them on a cross. He came to level the playing field among all people on earth, from the impoverished to the elite. Jesus Christ came for all people because all have fallen short of His glory. He came to save all of us sinners. Can you imagine the God of heaven and earth going to such extremes?

God our Heavenly Father loved His creation so much that He gave us His only Son (John 3:16) to live and die among His people on earth. He was rightly called Immanuel, which means “God with us” (Matthew 1:23). In humility He offered Himself as a sacrifice to save those who would believe in Him as Savior. The apostle Paul beautifully describes the humility of Jesus Christ in the second chapter of Philippians. 

Though he was in the form of God,

he did not consider being equal with God something to exploit.

But he emptied himself

        by taking the form of a slave

        and by becoming like human beings.

When he found himself in the form of a human,

        he humbled himself by becoming obedient to the point of death,

        even death on a cross.

Therefore, God highly honored him

        and gave him a name above all names,

    so that at the name of Jesus everyone

        in heaven, on earth, and under the earth might bow

        and every tongue confess that

            Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.  Philippians 2:6-11 CEB 

Thank you, God, for loving us so much that you would live on earth among your people, exemplifying for us the righteous life. Thank you, Jesus Christ, for your death and resurrection, enabling us to live eternally with you. Thank you for your gift of Christmas. Amen.

---

The Gift of Christmas

What a glorious time of year
When we celebrate the birth
Of a God who loved us so
That He came to live on earth.

Such a wondrous occasion
A holiday so dear,
It may be cold outside
Yet we’re warm because God’s near.

Some will have misgivings,
While others dread the season. 
In this day of automation
Do we have good reason?

Think of Mary, mother of Jesus,
Traveling o’er rocky terrain
On a donkey, big with child, 
I wonder—would she complain?

The Bible explains situations
Mary pondered in her heart.
If hearts were home for Jesus, 
Humans could make a new start.

So let Christ in this Christmas,
He’ll fill your soul with joy.
Together let’s give thanks to God
For sending the Savior boy!

DDC ‘89

When Clouds Gather, Watch and Pray

“Taken by surprise” triggers a mental picture of shock and alarm. This idiom means to be unprepared or not ready. Being unsure or unaware of circumstances leads to vulnerability, resulting in uncontrolled reactions. Nobody wants to be caught off guard, but most likely it’s happened to all of us.

Peter encountered such a moment in the Garden of Gethsemane. From a distance he had followed the soldiers who had arrested Jesus. As they led Jesus away into the house of the high priest, Peter positioned himself close to a fire in the courtyard. The people nearby recognized him, promptly questioning him about his relationship to Jesus. After several inquiries, his temper flared and he denied even knowing Him. The tension surrounding Jesus’ arrest definitely exposed Peter’s weakness. 

Earlier Peter had been with Jesus, James, and John in the garden. Clearly Jesus was troubled and had asked His disciples to keep watch with Him. Moving a short distance away from them, Jesus had fallen to the ground and prayed. He later returned to them and found them sleeping. Three times He prayed. Three times they slept. “Could you not keep watch with me for one hour, watch and pray so that you will not fall into temptation? The spirit is willing, but the body is weak.” said Jesus (Matthew 26:36-41).

Jesus knew what was about to take place. He longed for his disciples to be vigilant in prayer and strengthened by their Heavenly Father. Having failed to watch and pray, they were surprised by an army of people who arrested Jesus. They were completely unprepared for the difficulties that they eventually encountered.

People of ancient cultures knew the importance of being watchful. Many of them, including Israel, had enemies. Watchmen were to stand vigilant at their posts on Jerusalem’s border walls to prevent the townspeople from being caught unaware by unwelcome outsiders. If they got distracted or fell asleep, the inhabitants within the walls were in danger of attack. If they devoutly kept watch, the townsfolk inside were shielded from harm.

As Israel began assimilating with other cultures, they began putting less faith in the One True God. Did a decease in faith cause a decline in watchful prayer? Israel’s indifference for the faith of their fathers left them vulnerable to outsiders, leading to an invasion by the Babylonians. The invaders attacked and assaulted Jerusalem, breaking down walls and taking Israelites captive. Where were the watchman? Had they fallen asleep? 

After years of captivity, the Israelites returned to Jerusalem, led by Nehemiah, to rebuild the walls and the temple. As they began working, they were threatened by people attempting to prevent the rebuilding. The laborers were so afraid that they wanted to quit. But Nehemiah prayed and posted a guard day and night to keep a look out, especially over the exposed lowest places of the wall. Nehemiah said to the laborers……

““Don’t be afraid of them,” he urged. “Remember the Lord, who is great and awesome,
and fight for your brothers, your sons and your daughters, your wives and your homes”
(Nehemiah 4:14).”

The image of watchmen or military police is what I envisioned when God birthed in me the idea of mothers gathering together to pray for prodigals. Living with the agony of a broken relationship with my daughter, I yearned for her return. While I agonized over our estrangement, God opened my eyes to other families dealing with relationship woes. I realized we needed to support one another through our struggles and together fight for our families. I could hear Jesus saying, “Watch and pray.” 

These Biblical accounts of watching and praying inspired me to form a prayer group—Mothers for Prodigals—to take our concerns to Almighty God. We believed God would strengthen us while we encouraged one another. Our bond of fellowship grew as we prayed for each other and our children. We watched for God to work within our families. 

Nehemiah understood the importance of cautiously confronting circumstances. Jesus knew the seriousness of being awake and alert. And Peter learned the significance of being watchful.

“Peter later writes,
“Be of sober spirit, be on the alert.
Your adversary, the devil, prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour. But resist him, firm in your faith, knowing that the same experiences of suffering are being accomplished by your brethren who are in the world”
(1 Peter 5:8-9).”

We live in a world full of people who need our prayers. Distractions, drowsiness, and delusions draw them away from our Creator, the God of Truth. Those of us who believe in the name of Jesus are called to be the watchmen on the walls, to pray for them. We must be eagle-eyed watchmen, not heavy-eyed guards. 

So watch and pray. Don’t be taken by surprise or fall into temptation. Protect any exposed areas over your families with the covering of prayer. And trust God to take care of you and your children as He works to bring His people back to Him. 

Spiritual Warfare Prayer

JESUS CHRIST,
Lord God Almighty,
I kneel before you, preparing to war in prayer.
I need You.
My family needs You.
My friends need You.
Even my enemies need You.
Train me, O Rock of Ages, to fight against the enemy.

Embolden me to follow Your example, 
Telling the good news of Your merciful grace,
Healing broken hearts,
Offering release to the captives,
Declaring Your redeeming love.
For Your many blessings, I proclaim thanks and praise!

With You all things are possible—You said it, I believe it. 
In faith I offer myself as Your hands and feet 
To do Your will on earth.

The battle wages in the heavenlies and You are there,
As we feel the backlash, You are here with us. 
Thank You, Holy Spirit!

Even though the struggle of good and evil persists here on earth,
We can shout victorious praises.
You won the battle with Your submission to Your Heavenly Father. 
You were crucified and died, but You conquered death.
Your cross is a symbol of the fight You fought and won.

Here I stand, 
Surrendering to You,
Believing in Your victory,

Before I head to the battlefield, I put on Your armor. 
I begin by firmly fastening the belt of truth around my waist, 
Your Truth encircles me, O God of my salvation.
Fortify me with Your true words of integrity.

Supply my spirit with Your strength
As I put on Your righteous breastplate.
It protects the wellspring of my heart,
Guarding the inflow and outflow.
You keep my emotions intact.
I trust You with my life.

Truth and righteousness invade my soul
When I lean over to put on shoes of peace.
Strapping them on, I am ready to stand firm
In the power of Your might.
I can overcome anything with You by my side.
Thank you, Jesus.
Equip me to tell others about the good news of Your salvation.

When I cover my head with Your helmet of salvation,
Make my mind steadfast.
Satan uses many distractions to take my eyes off You,
Captivate my thoughts—quiet the conflict in my head.
You have saved me and I believe.
Lord, help my unbelief!

I take up my weapons and prepare to war.
Worry, distraction, death, discord, evil, fear—
All these and more assail me in this life.
Your Word warns of trouble on earth,
Yet You also said, “I will never leave nor forsake you.”
I stand on Your promise.

Taking up the shield of faith,
I deflect the stings, arrows, and spears of the enemy.
Under Your protection, Lord God,
I go on the offensive with the Sword of the Spirit,
Standing on Your Words of Life,
Pushing back the enemy,
Piercing through the darkness with Your truth,
Overcoming with Your Holy Spirit!

Peace reign down and flow like floodwaters,
Swaying wounded hearts,
Liberating captured souls.
FREEDOM in Christ!
Thank You, Lord God Almighty.
In Jesus’ name I pray. AMEN.

Below are some Scripture references used to write the warfare prayer above. Read these Scriptures and allow Christ to motivate you with His mighty words. Be at peace in His Name and let’s stand firm together, interceding with Christ for the lives of His people. Come, Lord Jesus!

Psalm 24:5, 25:5, 144:1
Isaiah 26:3-4, 61:1-3
Mark 9:24, 10:27, 14:36
Matthew 27-28
Luke 22:42
Ephesians 6:10-18
Proverbs 4:20-23
John 3:16-17, 8:32, 14:26, 16:33
1 John 2:5
1 Corinthians 2:16
Philippians 1:27, 4:7
Hebrews 11:1, 13:5
Galatians 5:1
Isaiah 52:7
Romans 10:14-15

Ripped and Stained, Stitched and Mended

Our heartfelt worship service shifted into fervent prayer. Then the pastor proceeded to the podium as the congregation sat down. I reached for my Bible and journal, anticipating a sermon full of good news. From the corner of my eye, I noticed a three-inch mended tear in the seat cushion next to me. Now distracted, I inspected the defect that, in my opinion, ruined the entire pew. 

My perception of the less than perfect pew fabric centered on distaste and disdain. While glaring at the gash and wondering how it got there, I sensed God speaking to my heart. He uttered His words of life into the moment, transforming my thoughts. 

Immediately my heart softened over this perfect example of imperfection. Here we all sat—patched up people—yearning for renewed life. Ripped, stained, stitched, and mended, we came to worship the Savior who restores. Do we attend church to flaunt our perfections? No, we bring our flaws and blemishes to the Great Physician for repair. Church should be a place for healing, not haughtiness.

Why do church people tend to judge? Many outsiders refuse to go to church because of the hypocritical nature of the righteous ones. Instead of being filled with judgment, we should be full of mercy. It’s what Christ offers all of us when we repent. He is our perfect example of merciful grace and forgiveness. 

Church buildings dot the landscape of many communities all over the world. The cross stands upon a steeple on some while others display a storefront facade. But a building is only a building—it’s what’s inside that counts (like our hearts). The word church comes from the Greek word ekklesia which means assembly or called-out ones. The true Church is the body of Jesus Christ and He is the head (Ephesians 1:22-23). The Church is comprised of broken people who believe in Him, the Savior of the world. 

Once again I glanced at the tear and pictured a hospital full of damaged patients—disappointed, depressed, dejected, despondent, downcast, disgruntled people, even hypocrites. All enter the church doors to encounter Jesus Christ, our Counselor and Physician. He laid down His life to heal our broken lives. As our resurrected Intercessor, He presents His Church to Almighty God. Having confessed our sins and professed faith in Jesus, we stand before our Lord God changed from tattered rags to pristine attire. 

As the praise band began to sing, I realized I had missed the pastor’s sermon. But God had perfectly illustrated to me a valuable lesson. His true Church comprises wounded but repaired people making known the love of Christ, not pretentious individuals pointing in judgment. Restoration occurs when a person meets Jesus with honest repentance. The merciful grace He offers to us is the same merciful grace we must extend to others. 

So bring to church your rips and stains. Allow Jesus the Great Physician to mend your hurts and pains. Praise Him with thanksgiving for His healing touch. Then go into the world sharing the good news of Jesus’ saving grace. 

“Heal me, Lord, and I will be healed;
save me and I will be saved, for you are the one I praise.
Jeremiah 17:14 (NIV)”

When Clouds Gather, Remember the Rainbow

I set My bow in the cloud, and it shall be for a sign of a covenant between Me and the earth. It shall come about, when I bring a cloud over the earth, that the bow will be seen in the cloud….When the bow is in the cloud, then I will look upon it, to remember the everlasting covenant between God and every living creature of all flesh that is on the earth.”  Genesis 9:13-14,16 (NASB)

An artist stands on the street before her easel, paintbrush in hand. Working with the colors from her palette, she applies paints to her canvas. Bystanders breathlessly wait for the finished product as spectacular scenery begins to take shape. Her vision fashions an incredible landscape. 

Now imagine our Creator God at work before His heavenly canvas. He designs His radiant rainbow in a cloud, the clouds that Scripture says are the dust of His feet (Nahum 1:3). If those massive billowy forms bear His footprints, how mighty is He, our Creator of the rainbow?

It staggers my mind to contemplate God’s magnificent grandeur. As I gaze into the heavens encircling me, I’m filled with awe and wonder. If my God is so big, surely I can trust Him to take care of me, my family, and our needs. The knowledge that I serve a majestic and powerful God comforts me until I notice dark clouds advancing. Then fear blows in with gale force winds and I start to doubt His faithfulness. 

Several years ago the southeastern coast of the United States experienced massive turbulence in the forms of Hurricanes Irma, Florence, and Michael. The states of Florida, Georgia, North Carolina, and South Carolina encountered extreme ruin. Those mighty clouds brought dangerous and destructive storms to the residents, including some of my family and friends. More recently Hurricane Dorian ravaged the Bahamas, leaving behind death and devastation.

How could this happen? Why did God allow such disaster? Did He walk away from His own creation?

When I see such destruction, I am plagued with doubt about a caring God. But then I take time to reread His Word, and He reminds me of His faithfulness. Over and over again, He confirms His steadfast love. He answers us when we seek Him (Psalm 34:4-6). He is available to all who call on His name (Psalm 116:3-6). He will never leave us or forsake us (Hebrews 13:5). He cares for us (1 Peter 5:7). Even though circumstances seem to tell a different story, Scripture promises us that we can count on God no matter what. 

Remember Noah in the ninth chapter of Genesis? Noah and his family experienced a catastrophic flood. God protected them in an ark while death swirled all around them. Except for the creatures they had gathered and led onto the boat, all else was gone. For forty days and nights, they endured confinement and uncertainty. Forty straight days and nights of rain and clouds! Imagine how much water surrounded their vessel. Were they frightened? Angry? Yearning for their old life? Did they complain? Did they forget God was near?  

I think I can answer all those questions with a resounding YES! If I had been on the ark or North Carolina’s coast or in the Bahamas, I would have been crying with fear. I probably would have screamed WHY while I wished for my old life back. Big billowy dark clouds would have depressed me. I surely would not have seen them as the dust of God’s feet. 

But then a rainbow appeared!

When God placed His rainbow in the clouds, it signified an everlasting covenant with all of God’s creatures, a solemn promise between God and all of earth. He promised never again to destroy all life in a flood.

Not only should the rainbow prompt us to recall God’s faithfulness, God declared the rainbow a sign of the covenant He made with all life on earth. Even to this day, the rainbow guarantees God’s promise. Its colorful array reminds us to hold onto hope and believe God is near to us whenever we need Him. 

Allow God’s words of truth to reside in your heart. Know He is faithful.

“For what great nation is there that has a god so near to it as is the Lord our God whenever we call on Him? 
(Deuteronomy 4:7)

”

“The Lord is near to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.  (Psalm 34:18)”

““Am I a God who is near,” declares the Lord, “And not a God far off? Can a man hide himself in hiding places so I do not see him?” declares the Lord. Do I not fill the heavens and the earth?” declares the Lord. 
(Jeremiah 23:23-24)”

God’s rainbow is a sign of His covenant with man. Its appearance proclaims we are not forgotten. Its beauty awakens us to the presence of an Almighty God through His Holy Spirit. We can celebrate the presence of Immanuel, God with us, Jesus Christ. And Jesus promised He would never leave us or forsake us. He is faithful.

Suffering usually strips us of our pretenses. It brings us to our knees, down to the nitty-gritty. When we call out to Jesus, we find Him waiting on us. He lifts us up in times of sorrow, sickness, and sadness. He offers hope when life appears hopeless. He is faithful. 

When clouds gather, remember His rainbow. He is faithful. 

Fan into Flame the Gift of God

          It was the thirtieth day of May in the year of our Lord, one thousand nine hundred fifty-four. According to the Order of the Church, pastors and elders ordained and consecrated my father as a minister by the laying on of hands. I can only imagine his mother’s delight—my grandmother who watched many Billy Graham crusades on TV. As I now held the certificate of ordination in my hand, I recall precious memories of a faith passed down from generation to generation. 

          Born a preacher’s kid, I attended church every time the doors were open. Sundays and Wednesdays especially found us all at church, even when snow kept everyone else away. My Dad made sure of our presence. While my upbringing has instilled regular church attendance, it’s my dad’s faith in our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ that I cherish most. What a blessing to grow up in a household that celebrated the gift of salvation through Jesus. To be taught how to grow in faith through Him. 

          But faith-building isn’t always easy, especially when life appears hopeless. Ironically, learning to trust God emerges out of difficulties. Why does it seem we lean in and learn more when hardship hits or when death strikes? Living through adversity tends to shape our lives. Walking through tribulations with the Savior transforms life. 

          My dad’s death shook me to my core. How would I live without him? Along with grief, a broken relationship with my daughter brought me to my knees. I agonized over the discord and disassociation with her. I couldn’t dam my tears. They flowed like rushing water. Despite the misery, God continually reminded me of the blessed assurance handed down by parents and grandparents. Eventually I held on to salvation in Jesus and experienced peace through the Holy Spirit. 

          Day by day I encountered this peace, but pain came alongside. It’s as if I walked in between railroad tracks with Jesus on one side and agony on the other—peace paralleled pain. Such a bittersweet existence. 

          Over time I became receptive to the revelation of other wounded people, especially mothers with prodigals. I believe God steered them in my direction, and I identified with them—their tears were my tears, their heartache my heartache. Seeing them took my eyes off my own suffering. They needed to experience the peace I had discovered, the resolve in my heart that God guarded our lives. But how would I tell them? What would I say? I felt so uneducated when sharing the gospel. 

“So do not be ashamed to testify about our Lord,” Paul told Timothy. (1 Timothy 1:8)

          Paul considered Timothy his true son in the faith, bonded by the blood of Jesus. Because he recognized Timothy’s youth and lack of confidence, Paul reminded him of the faith that lived in his mother and grandmother. And he prompted Timothy to recall the prophecies made over him at the time of his ordination. (1 Timothy 1:18-19)

          “Fan into flame the gift of God,” Paul said. “And know that “God did not give us a spirit of timidity, but a spirit of power, of love and of self-discipline,” (2 Timothy 1:6-7).

          Paul didn’t want Timothy to be afraid to share the gospel. He encouraged his spiritual son to join in his suffering, to fight the good fight, to guard the good deposit entrusted to him through the Holy Spirit. With honest eloquence, Paul motivated Timothy to keep the faith by saying, “Timothy, guard what has been entrusted to your care. Turn away from godless chatter and the opposing ideas of what is falsely called knowledge, which some have professed and in so doing have wandered from the faith.” (1 Timothy 6:20)

          God used Paul’s words to speak to me. Being afraid to share the gospel was not an option. I needed to hold tightly to the words of the Lord, reject fearful thoughts, and intercede for my child. With more strength than I could have imagined, God galvanized a fight within me—a fight of faith, the faith of my fathers. He formed our group of mothers with prodigals and gave us a Scripture verse to sustain us, Isaiah 43:5-7. Together we determined to humbly pray for our children, believing God’s truth.     

          We refused to allow anxiety over choices made by our children to squelch the fire. The embers in our troubled hearts had been deposited by our Heavenly Father. The power of the Holy Spirit fanned them into flame. In unity but with distinct voices, we cried out to the True and Faithful One, Jesus Christ. And He strengthened us. 

          Timothy came from a line of faithful believers. I learned of faith from my parents and grandparents. Standing on a firm foundation, I’m compelled to fan into flame this precious gift of God, passing it on to my children and grandchildren. 

          With power, love, and sound minds, my prayer group and I will continue to keep the faith and share the gospel with a lost and hurting world. For the sake of our children, for the next generation, we yearn to set ablaze the gift of God. We believe our prayers will ignite the flame. 

“So do not be ashamed to testify about our Lord.
(1 Timothy 1:8). ”

Oh the joy of future generations living in the truth.

When Clouds Gather, Approach His Throne

Therefore, since we have a great high priest who has ascended into heaven, Jesus the Son of God, let us hold firmly to the faith we profess. For we do not have a high priest who is unable to empathize with our weaknesses, but we have one who has been tempted in every way, just as we are—yet he did not sin. Let us then approach God’s throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need.  Hebrews 4:14-16 (NIV)

          Six humble women confidently drew near the throne room of the King of the universe, interceding on behalf of others. Praise poured from our lips to honor our merciful Savior. As we began lifting up the needs of a fallen world, our hearts ached for the return of our prodigals. Emotion filled the room as our souls reached out to touch His scepter.

          It was a reuniting of minds, the prayers of mothers and grandmothers for wandering children in a lost world. We had allowed the things of life to get in the way of meeting regularly to pray. Now it seemed the world’s ungodliness intensified at a rapid rate. It felt as though clouds of destruction surrounded us. So we put aside any fear that threatened to paralyze us, reclaiming with sound minds the power and love of Jesus Christ (2 Timothy 1:7). Our desire to stave off evil’s powerful influence over our families escalated with renewed potency. 

          Finally we sat face to face with each other, beginning a powerful hour of prayer. Tearfully we pleaded with our Heavenly Father for our families, our nation, and the world. We confidently approached His throne, believing we would receive His merciful grace in our time of need. Talking with Him through the authority of His Word equipped us to sense the presence of His Spirit (Matthew 18:20).   

          We knew God understood the desires of our hearts, and yet we also knew He longed for us to commune with Him through prayer. In one accord but with distinct voices, each of us offered words of adoration, repentance, and supplication. As we interceded for our children, Jesus also interceded for us before our Heavenly Father. With humble confidence we desired to touch the hem of His garment that He might answer our prayers (Matthew 9:20-21).

          Earlier we had reviewed the example of Queen Esther as a way to approach God. Esther’s uncle Mordecai had warned her of a plot to annihilate the Jewish people—her people. As queen she held an invaluable position to possibly stop the plot. But she had to align herself with her people while knowing the king was unaware of her Jewish heritage. She also risked death by going uninvited to speak to the king. Still she and her uncle knew they would all die if she didn’t chance an encounter with the king. Mordecai supposed Esther had come to royal position for such a time as this.

          Understanding the severity of the situation, she requested that her uncle gather together all the Jews in the city of Susa for a three day fast as she and her maids also fasted. Fasting involved prayer and they needed to prepare for her encounter with the king by calling on Almighty God. Would the king show mercy and hear her request or would she be put to death? 

          As time drew near to enter the inner court of the king, Esther donned her royal robes. Covered in prayer, she approached the king with prestigious confidence and courage. When he caught sight of her standing in the court, he was pleased to see her and held out the royal scepter, his instrument of mercy. She moved forward and touched his scepter, accepting his gracious mercy. He prepared to hear her request (Esther 4-5).

          Just as Esther held the responsibility of her royal position, we too are royal priests who have a responsibility to identify with the rest of God’s people. We wear the royal robes of Jesus’ righteousness when we accept Him as our Savior. We need only to humbly bow before Him and receive His mercy and grace.

          When AMEN (meaning let it be so) was proclaimed within our circle of prayer, we stood up, sharing smiles and hugs. Anxiety had been transformed into relief. We had placed our situations into God’s trustworthy hands. Making plans to meet again, we went our separate ways holding fast to God’s faithfulness to each one of us.

          As we have approached His throne and reached out to receive His grace, we yearn for our families to do the same. To take hold of Jesus’ love and forgiveness. To receive His mercy and grace. To live abundant life on earth and eternal life in heaven. 

          Have you reached out to touch the scepter of Jesus’ grace? Are you sharing the gospel and praying for future generations? It could be that you have been called for such a time as this. 

          Put on your royal robes and approach God’s throne with assurance. Reach out and receive His grace. The king granted Queen Esther’s request—her people were spared. The King of the universe waits to hear and answer your prayers. 

---

Have you been called…..FOR SUCH A TIME AS THIS?

When Clouds Gather, Look to Your Rescuer

Now when the Philistines were at war again with Israel, David went down and his servants with him; and as they fought against the Philistines, David became weary.  2 Samuel 21:15 (NASB)

David? Weary? Hard to believe that a wealthy and powerful king could become weary, but it happened. The Philistines were at war with Israel AGAIN, and David grew weary. Their taunts had plagued Israel for as long as he could remember. The death of the giant by young David’s sling and stone only frightened the Philistines temporarily. Once he became king, the Philistines threatened and tormented David again and again.

Are you experiencing exhaustion from a constant battle? Maybe you’re not at war with physical giants, but conflicts meet you at every turn. Disputes and quarrels erode stamina. Arduous, laborious, burdensome—a body is drained when facing mental and physical strife. 

Both angst and fatigue plagued me when my daughter lived according to her own desires instead of heeding our warnings about life choices. Thick tension would fill the air whenever we met face to face, usually ending in an explosive wrangle. When away from each other, intense disagreements would occur over the phone. I grew weary. 

PLEASE LORD, WON’T YOU HELP ME? CAN’T YOU MAKE THIS STRESS GO AWAY? TAKE AWAY THESE CLOUDS OF GLOOM AND DOOM. GOD, PLEASE BRING PEACE TO OUR FAMILY SITUATION NOW! 

I typically didn’t wait for God to work. No time to waste. I needed to fix the situation immediately. So I would reach out to her with well-intentioned words of advice. Surely I could transform her into my ideal daughter. My guidance only morphed into confrontation, creating more misery. 

GOD, I’VE BEEN PRAYING. MY FRIENDS ARE PRAYING. WHY AREN’T YOU ANSWERING? FIX HER. REPAIR OUR RELATIONSHIP. 

One day God answered me through a friend. “You need to cut the cord and quit trying to fix the situation,” she said. “Let go and let God work in her life and yours.” 

Was she talking to me? I wasn’t the one with the problem. Or so I thought until I remembered God’s words from Psalm 46:10—Be still and know that I am God. He was God and I was not. I had a lesson to learn. Maybe I could learn from David’s example. 

David inquired of the Lord. That’s right. David took time to stop and ask God what to do. He recognized God’s power. He understood God’s might. He knew the importance of listening and obeying God’s commands. But he didn’t always wait. He learned the way most of us do—the hard way. 

Many times he acted without conferring with God (like when he lusted after a married woman, impregnated her, and had her husband killed). Whoa. Who does that? How can that be forgiven? 

Yes, King David committed those heinous acts (2 Samuel 11). But when confronted by a man of God, shame filled David’s soul. Remorse brought him to his knees and he repented before God. Then David’s Deliverer rescued him with loving forgiveness. Because he continually yielded to God, God called him “a man after His own heart.”

I wanted to be a woman after God’s own heart. I desired to listen and obey God’s counsel. Humbly in silence, I began to open my ears and heart to God. When I finally removed my will and allowed God’s will in our lives, things slowly began to change. Weariness transformed into gratitude. God strengthened me.

He also strengthened David. This weary, sinful man with a pliable heart peered through the clouds of conflicts in his life and recognized his faithful Lord. Forgiven and strengthened, he penned many expressions of thanksgiving to His mighty Rescuer. He declared his deliverance by God’s hand from all his enemies. His soul delighted with songs of gratitude to his Savior. 

In his weariness, David called out to God and God heard him:

““In my distress I called upon the Lord,
Yes, I cried to my God;
And from His temple He heard my voice,
And my cry for help came into His ears. “
2 Samuel 22:7”

David declared who his Deliverer was:

““He delivered me from my strong enemy,
From those who hated me, for they were too strong for me.
“They confronted me in the day of my calamity,
But the Lord was my support.”
2 Samuel 22:18-19”

The Lord strengthened him and lit his way:

““For You are my lamp, O Lord;
And the Lord illumines my darkness.
“For by You I can run upon a troop;
By my God I can leap over a wall.”
2 Samuel 22:29-30”

At times gray clouds seem to reign over our lives. Dismal days forecast gloomy outlooks. As hope fades, weariness increases. What do you do? What did David do?

David cried out to God in the midst of trouble. God heard his cry and delivered him from his enemies. David offered songs of thanksgiving to his Lord and Savior. And David’s strength was renewed.

Are you weary from continuous clouds of conflict? Take time to be still and ask God what to do. Allow David’s heart penned in Psalm 18 to penetrate your soul. Recognize your Rescuer. Give Him praise. And He will renew your strength. 

Lord, how I love you! For you have done such tremendous things for me.

The Lord is my fort where I can enter and be safe; no one can follow me in and slay me. He is a rugged mountain where I hide; he is my Savior, a rock where none can reach me, and a tower of safety. He is my shield. He is like the strong horn of a mighty fighting bull. All I need to do is cry to him—oh, praise the Lord—and I am saved from all my enemies!  Psalm 18:1-3 (TLB)