“Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart
be acceptable in Your sight,
O LORD, my rock and my Redeemer.” Psalm 19:14
Both persons felt they had spoken of things that should never have been mentioned. Later at home one of the two picked up the Bible and stumbled over the apostle Paul’s words written to the church in Ephesus concerning purity of speech. At first their remarks had seemed harmless. However, for one the comments brought back memories of a lifestyle once forgotten and forgiven by God.
Paul tells us to refrain from speaking in godless terms because it can lead to sin and broken fellowship with God. We may think that sounds extreme, but it’s not. God calls each of us to live a lifestyle separate from that of the world’s. Jesus initiated this truth in Matthew 5:13: “You are the salt of the earth; but if the salt has become tasteless, how can it be made salty again?...”
Salt was a preservative in Christ’s time. Today we are God’s preservers of truth and holiness. He calls us to be like salt to a lost and dying world. But if we lose our saltiness, we also lose our effectiveness for Him. Ask God to show you any part of your speech not pleasing to Him. Tell Him that you want Him to be Lord over all you do and say.
“When there are many words, transgression is unavoidable...” Proverbs 10:19
Sunday, July 31, 2011
Friday, July 29, 2011
Speak to Encourage
“Let no unwholesome word proceed from your mouth, but only such a word as is good for edification according to the need of the moment, so that it will give grace to those who hear. Do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God, by whom you were sealed for the day of redemption.” Ephesians 4:29-30
One of the most important components of the Christian life is the way we communicate to one another. Paul tells us: “Let no unwholesome word proceed from your mouth, but only such a word as is good for edification according to the need of the moment...” (Eph. 4:29).Our words can be powerful tools of encouragement and hope or, if thoughtlessly delivered, weapons emotional devastation.
Few people truly understand the depth of shame and guilt of the woman at the well. More than likely, she was the focus of local gossip and malicious accusations. No one took the time to look into her heart - no one that is until Jesus.
Instead of rejection, Christ’s words brought hope and forgiveness. The result was a changed life. Many of the people we meet and pass each day need to hear of God’s love and eternal forgiveness. Rather, they are often met with disapproving stares and whispers.
Those trapped in sin already know the reality of their shame. What they really need is a way out of the mess they are in. Do as Jesus did - accept them as people dearly loved by God while refusing to justify their sin. Let your words be gifts of eternal value instead of arsenals of pain.
“The lips of the righteous feed many...” Proverbs 10:21
One of the most important components of the Christian life is the way we communicate to one another. Paul tells us: “Let no unwholesome word proceed from your mouth, but only such a word as is good for edification according to the need of the moment...” (Eph. 4:29).Our words can be powerful tools of encouragement and hope or, if thoughtlessly delivered, weapons emotional devastation.
Few people truly understand the depth of shame and guilt of the woman at the well. More than likely, she was the focus of local gossip and malicious accusations. No one took the time to look into her heart - no one that is until Jesus.
Instead of rejection, Christ’s words brought hope and forgiveness. The result was a changed life. Many of the people we meet and pass each day need to hear of God’s love and eternal forgiveness. Rather, they are often met with disapproving stares and whispers.
Those trapped in sin already know the reality of their shame. What they really need is a way out of the mess they are in. Do as Jesus did - accept them as people dearly loved by God while refusing to justify their sin. Let your words be gifts of eternal value instead of arsenals of pain.
“The lips of the righteous feed many...” Proverbs 10:21
Thursday, July 28, 2011
The Believers Mindset
“Therefore if you have been raised up with Christ, keep seeking the things above, where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God. Set your mind on the things above, not on the things that are on earth. For you have died and your life is hidden with Christ in God. When Christ, who is our life, is revealed, then you also will be revealed with Him in glory.” Colossians 3:1-4
The apostle Paul spent a great deal of time writing to the early church about the believer’s mindset - how they should think as new believers in Christ. The message he shared with the church in Colossae was no exception.
Because of its location, Colossae was a hub of activity and cultural expansion. Various philosophies dictated religious views and doctrines while young believers faced many challenges concerning their belief in God and His redemptive provision through Christ.
Paul exhorted them to set their minds on the things above, not on the things of this world (Col. 3:2). The reason was simple. When we focus on our lives, we are not easily swayed. We are firmly fixed and established in light of God’s victory. Therefore, when disappointments, doubts, or temptations come, we know God is in control because our minds are set on His truth and principles.
The reason many of the believers at Colossae struggled spiritually was because they allowed their minds to be drawn aside by false doctrines. Paul told them to think with their minds set on Jesus Christ. The same is true for us today. When our minds are focused on Christ, we have his perspective. That is our security and hope.
We have the right to think a certain way because of who we are in Christ.
The apostle Paul spent a great deal of time writing to the early church about the believer’s mindset - how they should think as new believers in Christ. The message he shared with the church in Colossae was no exception.
Because of its location, Colossae was a hub of activity and cultural expansion. Various philosophies dictated religious views and doctrines while young believers faced many challenges concerning their belief in God and His redemptive provision through Christ.
Paul exhorted them to set their minds on the things above, not on the things of this world (Col. 3:2). The reason was simple. When we focus on our lives, we are not easily swayed. We are firmly fixed and established in light of God’s victory. Therefore, when disappointments, doubts, or temptations come, we know God is in control because our minds are set on His truth and principles.
The reason many of the believers at Colossae struggled spiritually was because they allowed their minds to be drawn aside by false doctrines. Paul told them to think with their minds set on Jesus Christ. The same is true for us today. When our minds are focused on Christ, we have his perspective. That is our security and hope.
We have the right to think a certain way because of who we are in Christ.
Wednesday, July 27, 2011
Take Time to Listen
“But from there you will seek the LORD your God, and you will find Him if you search for Him with all your heart and all your soul. When you are in distress and all these things have come upon you, in the latter days you will return to the LORD your God and listen to His voice.” Deuteronomy 4:29-30
Few moments in life are actually silent enough for God to speak to us. And yet one of the key factors in hearing the voice of God is cultivating uninterrupted time alone with Him.
For some busy moms and dads this may seem next to impossible. Many of their days begin at 5:30 in the morning and end shortly before midnight. Fighting feelings of guilt, they wonder how they will ever have time to know God intimately.
The first thing you need to remember is that God will never condemn you (Rom. 8:1) In His compassion, He draws you into a closer relationship with Him. Many times the circumstances and stresses of life become gateways of opportunity to such a relationship.
The primary way God speaks to us is through His Word. Begin to cultivate His presence by making a commitment to set aside time each day to be alone with Him. No matter how short it may seem at first, tell Him that you really want to hear from Him.
God always honors an obedient heart and promises to guide us as we seek Him. Ask Him to speak directly to your set of circumstances so you may have His wisdom in dealing with every aspect of life. Learning to listen to God will change the way you view life and its challenges.
When we learn to listen to the voice of God, we live securely.
Few moments in life are actually silent enough for God to speak to us. And yet one of the key factors in hearing the voice of God is cultivating uninterrupted time alone with Him.
For some busy moms and dads this may seem next to impossible. Many of their days begin at 5:30 in the morning and end shortly before midnight. Fighting feelings of guilt, they wonder how they will ever have time to know God intimately.
The first thing you need to remember is that God will never condemn you (Rom. 8:1) In His compassion, He draws you into a closer relationship with Him. Many times the circumstances and stresses of life become gateways of opportunity to such a relationship.
The primary way God speaks to us is through His Word. Begin to cultivate His presence by making a commitment to set aside time each day to be alone with Him. No matter how short it may seem at first, tell Him that you really want to hear from Him.
God always honors an obedient heart and promises to guide us as we seek Him. Ask Him to speak directly to your set of circumstances so you may have His wisdom in dealing with every aspect of life. Learning to listen to God will change the way you view life and its challenges.
When we learn to listen to the voice of God, we live securely.
Tuesday, July 26, 2011
Cultivating Contentment
“Not that I speak from want, for I have learned to be content in whatever circumstances I am. I know how to get along with humble means, and I also know how to live in prosperity; in any and every circumstance I have learned the secret of being filled and going hungry, both of having abundance and suffering need.” Philippians 4:11-12
Our material-oriented culture is programmed to generate discontentment. That is why each year brings new cars, new fashions, new improvements, all designed to make us dissatisfied with our present status or possessions.
Cultivating contentment in the Christian life begins with understanding that things never define our value. Our job, neighborhood, or net worth does not figure into God’s equation for value and worth. Our value lies in our priceless relationship to God as our Father. Still more, we can counter the anxious and stressful tug of discontentment with a solid understanding of several basic scriptural truths.
God cares for you. As His child, He has assumed responsibility for providing for your emotional, spiritual, and physical needs. He will do so as you trust Him without reservation while going about the routine tasks of each day.
God is in control. When a job runs out, a mate quits, a friend deserts, God is quietly but sovereignly at work for your good. You are not a victim of the economy or another’s decision.
You can be content in any circumstance when you are sure of God’s unceasing care and absolute control of every detail. Rest in His ability and contentment will follow.
“How rich a God our God is! He gives enough but we don’t notice it.” -Martin Luther
Our material-oriented culture is programmed to generate discontentment. That is why each year brings new cars, new fashions, new improvements, all designed to make us dissatisfied with our present status or possessions.
Cultivating contentment in the Christian life begins with understanding that things never define our value. Our job, neighborhood, or net worth does not figure into God’s equation for value and worth. Our value lies in our priceless relationship to God as our Father. Still more, we can counter the anxious and stressful tug of discontentment with a solid understanding of several basic scriptural truths.
God cares for you. As His child, He has assumed responsibility for providing for your emotional, spiritual, and physical needs. He will do so as you trust Him without reservation while going about the routine tasks of each day.
God is in control. When a job runs out, a mate quits, a friend deserts, God is quietly but sovereignly at work for your good. You are not a victim of the economy or another’s decision.
You can be content in any circumstance when you are sure of God’s unceasing care and absolute control of every detail. Rest in His ability and contentment will follow.
“How rich a God our God is! He gives enough but we don’t notice it.” -Martin Luther
Monday, July 25, 2011
The Lord is Your Strength
“I can do all things through Him who strengthens me.” Philippians 4:13
When the Bible talks of strength, it means inner fortitude of spirit, mind, will, and emotion. It is the actual energizing work of the Holy Spirit to undergird and sustain us. We receive God’s strength when we are weak. Isaiah encourages us that God “gives strength to the weary, and to him who lacks might He increases power” (Isaiah 40:29). Paul said that “power is perfected in weakness” (2 Cor. 12:9). The emotionally drained believer doesn’t have to be swept into the undertow of stressful times. God will give you the strength you don’t have if you will lean fully on his resources.
The strength God gives is experienced also as we praise Him. There is something about praise that is invigorating and enlivening. Although it is the very thing we don’t feel like doing, praise is God’s tool to spiritually nourish us. Nehemiah informs us that the “joy of the Lord is your strength” (Neh. 8:10).
In your weakest moments, when you feel like giving in to temptation or just giving up, realize your weakness is your opportunity to draw upon God’s supernatural strength. Praise Him, as feebly as that may be, and you will be renewed and restored. His Word is His sure bond.
If you put yourself at the feet of Jesus, He’ll set you on your feet.
When the Bible talks of strength, it means inner fortitude of spirit, mind, will, and emotion. It is the actual energizing work of the Holy Spirit to undergird and sustain us. We receive God’s strength when we are weak. Isaiah encourages us that God “gives strength to the weary, and to him who lacks might He increases power” (Isaiah 40:29). Paul said that “power is perfected in weakness” (2 Cor. 12:9). The emotionally drained believer doesn’t have to be swept into the undertow of stressful times. God will give you the strength you don’t have if you will lean fully on his resources.
The strength God gives is experienced also as we praise Him. There is something about praise that is invigorating and enlivening. Although it is the very thing we don’t feel like doing, praise is God’s tool to spiritually nourish us. Nehemiah informs us that the “joy of the Lord is your strength” (Neh. 8:10).
In your weakest moments, when you feel like giving in to temptation or just giving up, realize your weakness is your opportunity to draw upon God’s supernatural strength. Praise Him, as feebly as that may be, and you will be renewed and restored. His Word is His sure bond.
If you put yourself at the feet of Jesus, He’ll set you on your feet.
Sunday, July 24, 2011
Dealing with Anger, Part 2
“Therefore consider the members of your earthly body as dead to immorality, impurity, passion, evil desire, and greed, which amounts to idolatry. For it is because of these things that the wrath of God will come upon the sons of disobedience, and in them you also once walked, when you were living in them. But now you also, put them all aside: anger, wrath, malice, slander, and abusive speech from your mouth. Do not lie to one another, since you laid aside the old self with its evil practices, and have put on the new self who is being renewed to a true knowledge according to the image of the One who created him — a renewal in which there is no distinction between Greek and Jew, circumcised and uncircumcised, barbarian, Scythian, slave and freeman, but Christ is all, and in all.
So, as those who have been chosen of God, holy and beloved, put on a heart of compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience; bearing with one another, and forgiving each other, whoever has a complaint against anyone; just as the Lord forgave you, so also should you. Beyond all these things put on love, which is the perfect bond of unity. Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, to which indeed you were called in one body; and be thankful.” Colossians 3:5-15
Some more boundary markers on handling the volatile emotion of anger include:
Deal directly with the situation or responsible party who has irked you. Face such conflict head on. Refuse to spread your anger to other parties. Receive counsel only if you are unsure how to constructively deal with your anger.
Resolve your anger as quickly as possible under the leadership of the Holy Spirit. Sometimes you need a cool down period before expressing your anger. But it is folly to let your anger brew over days, weeks, or months. That is the perfect breeding ground for bitterness and division.
Remember that the temperament and personality of other people can easily provoke you. If this is the catalyst that makes you angry, your best choice is to accept others as God accepts you - freely and unconditionally.
Make a daily choice to submit to the reign of the Holy Spirit in your emotional life. Put your focus on Christ and the peace He gives in all circumstances. The sweeter your fellowship with Jesus, the more like Him you will naturally become with the Spirit’s help.
That is the lifestyle God has called you to, and it is within this context that anger can be handled appropriately.
“The moment I started hating a man, I became his slave...He even controls my thoughts.” -S.I. McMillen
So, as those who have been chosen of God, holy and beloved, put on a heart of compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience; bearing with one another, and forgiving each other, whoever has a complaint against anyone; just as the Lord forgave you, so also should you. Beyond all these things put on love, which is the perfect bond of unity. Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, to which indeed you were called in one body; and be thankful.” Colossians 3:5-15
Some more boundary markers on handling the volatile emotion of anger include:
Deal directly with the situation or responsible party who has irked you. Face such conflict head on. Refuse to spread your anger to other parties. Receive counsel only if you are unsure how to constructively deal with your anger.
Resolve your anger as quickly as possible under the leadership of the Holy Spirit. Sometimes you need a cool down period before expressing your anger. But it is folly to let your anger brew over days, weeks, or months. That is the perfect breeding ground for bitterness and division.
Remember that the temperament and personality of other people can easily provoke you. If this is the catalyst that makes you angry, your best choice is to accept others as God accepts you - freely and unconditionally.
Make a daily choice to submit to the reign of the Holy Spirit in your emotional life. Put your focus on Christ and the peace He gives in all circumstances. The sweeter your fellowship with Jesus, the more like Him you will naturally become with the Spirit’s help.
That is the lifestyle God has called you to, and it is within this context that anger can be handled appropriately.
“The moment I started hating a man, I became his slave...He even controls my thoughts.” -S.I. McMillen
Friday, July 22, 2011
Dealing with Anger
“Be angry, and yet do not sin; do not let the sun go down on your anger, 27 and do not give the devil an opportunity.” Ephesians 4:26-27
“Let all bitterness and wrath and anger and clamor and slander be put away from you, along with all malice. Be kind to one another, tender-hearted, forgiving each other, just as God in Christ also has forgiven you.” Ephesians 4:31-32
A jarring tackle by a linebacker on a running back at midfield is perfectly acceptable behavior. On the other hand, a blow by the same linebacker on the same running back out of bounds is a rule of infraction met by a penalty.
It is helpful to think of anger in similar terms. If we keep our anger within certain acceptable bounds, it is not sin. David’s anger is obvious in the Psalms. Jesus visibly vented His anger in the temple. Nowhere are these actions described as sin.
But when anger crosses certain boundaries, it becomes sinful behavior. Knowing those emotional and spiritual land lines is difficult, but here are a few helpful guidelines.
Anger is ok so long as it is not a synonym for a constant, irritable temper. If you frequently stew over matters and are quickly irritated, you are not walking in the Spirit. You need His self-control and a megadose of biblical love.
Anger is acceptable as long as it is directed at another’s behavior and not the person himself. God does not treat us as our sins deserve; likewise, we must be careful not to attack a person’s self-worth. Let your anger be directed at the problem, not the person. Don’t always suppress your feelings. Express your ire, but keep it within legitimate bounds.
“Unholy tempers are always unhappy tempers.” -John Wesley
“Let all bitterness and wrath and anger and clamor and slander be put away from you, along with all malice. Be kind to one another, tender-hearted, forgiving each other, just as God in Christ also has forgiven you.” Ephesians 4:31-32
A jarring tackle by a linebacker on a running back at midfield is perfectly acceptable behavior. On the other hand, a blow by the same linebacker on the same running back out of bounds is a rule of infraction met by a penalty.
It is helpful to think of anger in similar terms. If we keep our anger within certain acceptable bounds, it is not sin. David’s anger is obvious in the Psalms. Jesus visibly vented His anger in the temple. Nowhere are these actions described as sin.
But when anger crosses certain boundaries, it becomes sinful behavior. Knowing those emotional and spiritual land lines is difficult, but here are a few helpful guidelines.
Anger is ok so long as it is not a synonym for a constant, irritable temper. If you frequently stew over matters and are quickly irritated, you are not walking in the Spirit. You need His self-control and a megadose of biblical love.
Anger is acceptable as long as it is directed at another’s behavior and not the person himself. God does not treat us as our sins deserve; likewise, we must be careful not to attack a person’s self-worth. Let your anger be directed at the problem, not the person. Don’t always suppress your feelings. Express your ire, but keep it within legitimate bounds.
“Unholy tempers are always unhappy tempers.” -John Wesley
Thursday, July 21, 2011
Dealing with Loneliness, Part 2
“As in water face reflects face,
so the heart of man reflects man.” Proverbs 27:19
The ache of loneliness is soothed first by building new intimacy with Christ Jesus as Friend. But it does not stop there, for Jesus knows our needs for mutual love and fellowship as well. The disciples traveled in pairs. Paul always had traveling companions. And Elijah had Elisha. God knew each person needed the support of a friend as well as His supernatural presence.
Seek to cultivate new depths of intimacy with your family. Pray for your family. Look for creative ways to do things together.
God also understands your need for other beneficial friendships. Ask Him to provide one friend of the same sex with whom you can develop and openness and sharing.
If you are single, widowed, or divorced, ask God to bring someone into your life who will brighten your day. Don’t force a futile friendship. Let Him guide you. Look for avenues of service to your neighbor, church, or community that will open the door of fellowship.
We do need others. God knows this. As your most noble Friend, He will help you build godly friendships that keep loneliness at bay and sharpen you for His good and blessed purposes.
“The love of our neighbor is the only door out of the dungeon of self.” -George MacDonald
so the heart of man reflects man.” Proverbs 27:19
The ache of loneliness is soothed first by building new intimacy with Christ Jesus as Friend. But it does not stop there, for Jesus knows our needs for mutual love and fellowship as well. The disciples traveled in pairs. Paul always had traveling companions. And Elijah had Elisha. God knew each person needed the support of a friend as well as His supernatural presence.
Seek to cultivate new depths of intimacy with your family. Pray for your family. Look for creative ways to do things together.
God also understands your need for other beneficial friendships. Ask Him to provide one friend of the same sex with whom you can develop and openness and sharing.
If you are single, widowed, or divorced, ask God to bring someone into your life who will brighten your day. Don’t force a futile friendship. Let Him guide you. Look for avenues of service to your neighbor, church, or community that will open the door of fellowship.
We do need others. God knows this. As your most noble Friend, He will help you build godly friendships that keep loneliness at bay and sharpen you for His good and blessed purposes.
“The love of our neighbor is the only door out of the dungeon of self.” -George MacDonald
Wednesday, July 20, 2011
Dealing with Loneliness
“Turn to me and be gracious to me,
for I am lonely and afflicted.
The troubles of my heart are enlarged;
bring me out of my distresses.
Look upon my affliction and my trouble,
and forgive all my sins.” Psalm 25:16-18
A pastor shared the good news of God’s love in a small Russian village. He talked of Jesus as Savior, Lord, and Friend. A young man thoughtfully responded to the message with this simple but profound truth: “Before, I had known Jesus as my Savior and Master. But I had always though of Him as Boss. It never occurred to me that He was my Friend. This will change everything about my faith.”
Christians become mired in the murky waters of loneliness for many reasons - an extended illness, a divorce, and empty next, the death of genuine friends. The starting place to lift loneliness’ enveloping emotional fog is to build intimacy with Jesus as our Friend.
Fellowship with Jesus is sweet friendship with your most loyal Friend. It is coming to Christ with honesty and sincerity. You need not hide your feelings. He understands them and does not condemn you. You can draw as close to Christ as you desire.
Jesus stands ready now to embrace you with the love that died for you and now lives within you. He is no fair-weather Friend. He will stand with you and comfort you in your darkest hour.
“The truth that Christ loves me has done more to transform my quiet time...than any other fact.” -Robert Munger
for I am lonely and afflicted.
The troubles of my heart are enlarged;
bring me out of my distresses.
Look upon my affliction and my trouble,
and forgive all my sins.” Psalm 25:16-18
A pastor shared the good news of God’s love in a small Russian village. He talked of Jesus as Savior, Lord, and Friend. A young man thoughtfully responded to the message with this simple but profound truth: “Before, I had known Jesus as my Savior and Master. But I had always though of Him as Boss. It never occurred to me that He was my Friend. This will change everything about my faith.”
Christians become mired in the murky waters of loneliness for many reasons - an extended illness, a divorce, and empty next, the death of genuine friends. The starting place to lift loneliness’ enveloping emotional fog is to build intimacy with Jesus as our Friend.
Fellowship with Jesus is sweet friendship with your most loyal Friend. It is coming to Christ with honesty and sincerity. You need not hide your feelings. He understands them and does not condemn you. You can draw as close to Christ as you desire.
Jesus stands ready now to embrace you with the love that died for you and now lives within you. He is no fair-weather Friend. He will stand with you and comfort you in your darkest hour.
“The truth that Christ loves me has done more to transform my quiet time...than any other fact.” -Robert Munger
Tuesday, July 19, 2011
Dealing with Fear, Part 2
“Do not fear, for I am with you;
Do not anxiously look about you, for I am your God.
I will strengthen you, surely I will help you,
Surely I will uphold you with My righteous right hand.” Isaiah 41:10
God’s Word is alive with strength and courage to help us encounter every fear or phobia that plagues us. Isaiah 41:10 is a timeless prescription that has helped many Christians confront and conquer their fears because it is loaded with fear-busting truth.
“Do not fear, for I am with you...” You are not alone with your fears. God lives in you to help you. This should bring great comfort and encouragement to know Christ is with you always.
“...Do not anxiously look about you, for I am your God...” God in all His power, wisdom, love, and mercy is on your side. He is personally acquainted with you. You are part of His family, and He looks after you in a fatherly manner.
“...I will strengthen you, surely I will help you...” In your weakness, God promises to make you strong. He never tires or falters. His shoulders are eternally broad. How much can He help you? As much as you let Him.
“...Surely I will uphold you with My righteous right hand.” God is your advocate. He keeps and protects you. He is your stronghold, your refuge. Though you may be shaken, He never is. His everlasting arms are underneath you to hold you in your most desperate moments.
“Men who fear God face life fearlessly.” -Richard Halverson
Do not anxiously look about you, for I am your God.
I will strengthen you, surely I will help you,
Surely I will uphold you with My righteous right hand.” Isaiah 41:10
God’s Word is alive with strength and courage to help us encounter every fear or phobia that plagues us. Isaiah 41:10 is a timeless prescription that has helped many Christians confront and conquer their fears because it is loaded with fear-busting truth.
“Do not fear, for I am with you...” You are not alone with your fears. God lives in you to help you. This should bring great comfort and encouragement to know Christ is with you always.
“...Do not anxiously look about you, for I am your God...” God in all His power, wisdom, love, and mercy is on your side. He is personally acquainted with you. You are part of His family, and He looks after you in a fatherly manner.
“...I will strengthen you, surely I will help you...” In your weakness, God promises to make you strong. He never tires or falters. His shoulders are eternally broad. How much can He help you? As much as you let Him.
“...Surely I will uphold you with My righteous right hand.” God is your advocate. He keeps and protects you. He is your stronghold, your refuge. Though you may be shaken, He never is. His everlasting arms are underneath you to hold you in your most desperate moments.
“Men who fear God face life fearlessly.” -Richard Halverson
Monday, July 18, 2011
Dealing with Fear
“God is our refuge and strength,
a very present help in trouble.
Therefore we will not fear, though the earth should change
and though the mountains slip into the heart of the sea;
though its waters roar and foam,
though the mountains quake at its swelling pride.”
Psalm 46:1-3
Fear seems to be one of the first abnormal symptoms that man experienced following the fall from perfect union and fellowship with God. “Then the LORD God called to the man, and said to him, ‘Where are you?’ He said, ‘I heard the sound of You in the garden, and I was afraid...’” (Genesis 3:9-10).
Since then every heart has known the panic and trembling that fear brings. Fear of failure. Fear of the future. Fear of today. We live in fearful times. The only antidote for fear is trust. David, who knew the depth of fear as few, came to this conclusion as he was seized by the Philistines: “When I am afraid, I will put my trust in You.” (Psalm 56:3).
David did not deny his fear. He did not rationalize it or try to out-man it. He admitted his fear and then affirmed his trust in the Lord.
Elizabeth Cheney wrote this succinct and powerful poem:
“First came singing into my room
And other guests took flight.
Grief, anxiety, fear, and gloom
Sped out into the night.”
Identify the source of your fear. Bring it before God. Then confidently assert His ability to handle your fears and His willingness to replace your fears with His courage and peace.
“When we fail to trust God we doubt his sovereignty and question His goodness.” -Jerry Bridges
a very present help in trouble.
Therefore we will not fear, though the earth should change
and though the mountains slip into the heart of the sea;
though its waters roar and foam,
though the mountains quake at its swelling pride.”
Psalm 46:1-3
Fear seems to be one of the first abnormal symptoms that man experienced following the fall from perfect union and fellowship with God. “Then the LORD God called to the man, and said to him, ‘Where are you?’ He said, ‘I heard the sound of You in the garden, and I was afraid...’” (Genesis 3:9-10).
Since then every heart has known the panic and trembling that fear brings. Fear of failure. Fear of the future. Fear of today. We live in fearful times. The only antidote for fear is trust. David, who knew the depth of fear as few, came to this conclusion as he was seized by the Philistines: “When I am afraid, I will put my trust in You.” (Psalm 56:3).
David did not deny his fear. He did not rationalize it or try to out-man it. He admitted his fear and then affirmed his trust in the Lord.
Elizabeth Cheney wrote this succinct and powerful poem:
“First came singing into my room
And other guests took flight.
Grief, anxiety, fear, and gloom
Sped out into the night.”
Identify the source of your fear. Bring it before God. Then confidently assert His ability to handle your fears and His willingness to replace your fears with His courage and peace.
“When we fail to trust God we doubt his sovereignty and question His goodness.” -Jerry Bridges
Sunday, July 17, 2011
Dealing with Rejection
“For You formed my inward parts;
You wove me in my mother’s womb.
I will give thanks to You, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made;
wonderful are Your works,
and my soul knows it very well.
My frame was not hidden from You,
when I was made in secret,
and skillfully wrought in the depths of the earth;
Your eyes have seen my unformed substance;
and in Your book were all written
the days that were ordained for me,
when as yet there was not one of them.
How precious also are Your thoughts to me, O God!
How vast is the sum of them!” Psalm 139:13-17
The piercing arrow of rejection can be removed and the wounds healed as we understand our intrinsic worth is forever bound to God’s unchanging truth.
Joseph Aldrich, author, pastor, and Bible school president, in his booklet, Self-Worth, writes: “Here’s the point: If the whole world decided you were worthless, it would not change your essential value. Why? Because as a believer you share both the image and nature of the unchanging God Himself. Your value is tied to Him. He is the magnetic north pole of your essential worth. The Almighty Creator is the infinite reference point, the ultimate standard, the ‘cosmic blue book’ of your value....Your value was written in blood at the cross. And whatever He values is valuable.”
Jesus was rejected by those He came to save. He dealt with that trauma by knowing that the Father loved Him completely.
If rejection has put you into a slough of despond, affirm God’s love for you. Move forward by obediently seeking to know Him through every adversity. Rejection eventually can be put behind you as you place Christ in front of you.
“The ultimate good for you is to treat yourself according to your true value.” -Joseph Aldrich
You wove me in my mother’s womb.
I will give thanks to You, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made;
wonderful are Your works,
and my soul knows it very well.
My frame was not hidden from You,
when I was made in secret,
and skillfully wrought in the depths of the earth;
Your eyes have seen my unformed substance;
and in Your book were all written
the days that were ordained for me,
when as yet there was not one of them.
How precious also are Your thoughts to me, O God!
How vast is the sum of them!” Psalm 139:13-17
The piercing arrow of rejection can be removed and the wounds healed as we understand our intrinsic worth is forever bound to God’s unchanging truth.
Joseph Aldrich, author, pastor, and Bible school president, in his booklet, Self-Worth, writes: “Here’s the point: If the whole world decided you were worthless, it would not change your essential value. Why? Because as a believer you share both the image and nature of the unchanging God Himself. Your value is tied to Him. He is the magnetic north pole of your essential worth. The Almighty Creator is the infinite reference point, the ultimate standard, the ‘cosmic blue book’ of your value....Your value was written in blood at the cross. And whatever He values is valuable.”
Jesus was rejected by those He came to save. He dealt with that trauma by knowing that the Father loved Him completely.
If rejection has put you into a slough of despond, affirm God’s love for you. Move forward by obediently seeking to know Him through every adversity. Rejection eventually can be put behind you as you place Christ in front of you.
“The ultimate good for you is to treat yourself according to your true value.” -Joseph Aldrich
Friday, July 15, 2011
Dealing with Guilt
“I now rejoice, not that you were made sorrowful, but that you were made sorrowful to the point of repentance; for you were made sorrowful according to the will of God, so that you might not suffer loss in anything through us. For the sorrow that is according to the will of God produces a repentance without regret, leading to salvation, but the sorrow of the world produces death.” 2 Corinthians 7:9-10
One of Satan’s most potent weapons is the fraudulent use of guilt in the believer’s life. He enjoys seeing the Christian wrestle with unnecessary guilt. He understand that if unresolved, it can lead to a miserable Christian existence, destroying joy and peace.
This doesn’t have to happen to you or any believer. God has made full provision for the problem of guilt through proper understanding of His remedy and discernment of Satan’s deceptive tactics. When Jesus died on the cross, He paid the penalty of your sin and its condemning guilt. You are forgiven of all your sins - past, present, and future. Your sin debt is paid in full when you receive Christ as Savior.
When you sin after salvation, the Holy Spirit convicts you of specific transgressions Any guilt feelings are the Spirit’s loving prompting for confession and repentance. Such confession agrees with God that you have violated His truth and allows you to experience His complete forgiveness.
If you find yourself walking around in a cloud of guilt but you cannot point to a specific act of sin, then this is a lie of Satan. Reject them. Refuse them. God loves you unconditionally and never puts a false guilt trip on you.
“Let us go to Calvary to learn how we may be forgiven. Then let us linger there to learn how to forgive.” -Charles Spurgeon
One of Satan’s most potent weapons is the fraudulent use of guilt in the believer’s life. He enjoys seeing the Christian wrestle with unnecessary guilt. He understand that if unresolved, it can lead to a miserable Christian existence, destroying joy and peace.
This doesn’t have to happen to you or any believer. God has made full provision for the problem of guilt through proper understanding of His remedy and discernment of Satan’s deceptive tactics. When Jesus died on the cross, He paid the penalty of your sin and its condemning guilt. You are forgiven of all your sins - past, present, and future. Your sin debt is paid in full when you receive Christ as Savior.
When you sin after salvation, the Holy Spirit convicts you of specific transgressions Any guilt feelings are the Spirit’s loving prompting for confession and repentance. Such confession agrees with God that you have violated His truth and allows you to experience His complete forgiveness.
If you find yourself walking around in a cloud of guilt but you cannot point to a specific act of sin, then this is a lie of Satan. Reject them. Refuse them. God loves you unconditionally and never puts a false guilt trip on you.
“Let us go to Calvary to learn how we may be forgiven. Then let us linger there to learn how to forgive.” -Charles Spurgeon
Thursday, July 14, 2011
Dealing with Adversity, Part 2
“Oh give thanks to the LORD, for He is good,
for His lovingkindness is everlasting.
Let the redeemed of the LORD say so,
whom He has redeemed from the hand of the adversary
and gathered from the lands,
from the east and from the west,
from the north and from the south.
They wandered in the wilderness in a desert region;
they did not find a way to an inhabited city.
They were hungry and thirsty;
their soul fainted within them.
Then they cried out to the LORD in their trouble;
He delivered them out of their distresses.
He led them also by a straight way,
to go to an inhabited city.
Let them give thanks to the LORD for His lovingkindness,
and for His wonders to the sons of men!
For He has satisfied the thirsty soul,
and the hungry soul He has filled with what is good.”
Psalm 107:1-9
When adversity hits suddenly or hangs in tenaciously, we can lose our spiritual bearings, leading to unwise thinking and behavior. We can act erratically, and our view of God can become warped. Whatever trouble you face for however long, remember and recall these stabilizing biblical truths:
1. Never lose sight of God’s goodness. Nothing can cause us to doubt God’s goodness more than affliction. But God can use your problem for eventual good although you cannot see how. Affirm God’s goodness and constantly remind yourself of His unceasing love and care.
2. Never give up. When the struggle wearies you to the point of giving up, give in to Christ and never to your circumstances. God promises to sustain you in your trials and either bring you through them or give you His all-sufficient grace to endure them. He will never fail or forsake you, and that is truth enough to preserve.
3. Never deny the power of God’s promises. God’s Word contains promises just for your situation. Ask the Holy Spirit to put a personalized Scripture in your heart. He will do it and you will find amazing strength and peace.
God is for you and on your side. You can handle adversity because He can.
“God loves each of us as if there were only one of us.”
-St. Augustine
for His lovingkindness is everlasting.
Let the redeemed of the LORD say so,
whom He has redeemed from the hand of the adversary
and gathered from the lands,
from the east and from the west,
from the north and from the south.
They wandered in the wilderness in a desert region;
they did not find a way to an inhabited city.
They were hungry and thirsty;
their soul fainted within them.
Then they cried out to the LORD in their trouble;
He delivered them out of their distresses.
He led them also by a straight way,
to go to an inhabited city.
Let them give thanks to the LORD for His lovingkindness,
and for His wonders to the sons of men!
For He has satisfied the thirsty soul,
and the hungry soul He has filled with what is good.”
Psalm 107:1-9
When adversity hits suddenly or hangs in tenaciously, we can lose our spiritual bearings, leading to unwise thinking and behavior. We can act erratically, and our view of God can become warped. Whatever trouble you face for however long, remember and recall these stabilizing biblical truths:
1. Never lose sight of God’s goodness. Nothing can cause us to doubt God’s goodness more than affliction. But God can use your problem for eventual good although you cannot see how. Affirm God’s goodness and constantly remind yourself of His unceasing love and care.
2. Never give up. When the struggle wearies you to the point of giving up, give in to Christ and never to your circumstances. God promises to sustain you in your trials and either bring you through them or give you His all-sufficient grace to endure them. He will never fail or forsake you, and that is truth enough to preserve.
3. Never deny the power of God’s promises. God’s Word contains promises just for your situation. Ask the Holy Spirit to put a personalized Scripture in your heart. He will do it and you will find amazing strength and peace.
God is for you and on your side. You can handle adversity because He can.
“God loves each of us as if there were only one of us.”
-St. Augustine
Wednesday, July 13, 2011
Dealing with Adversity
“Because of the surpassing greatness of the revelations, for this reason, to keep me from exalting myself, there was given me a thorn in the flesh, a messenger of Satan to torment me—to keep me from exalting myself! Concerning this I implored the Lord three times that it might leave me. And He has said to me, ‘My grace is sufficient for you, for power is perfected in weakness.’ Most gladly, therefore, I will rather boast about my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may dwell in me. Therefore I am well content with weaknesses, with insults, with distresses, with persecutions, with difficulties, for Christ’s sake; for when I am weak, then I am strong.” 2 Corinthians 12:7-10
Someone has described the Christian life as either headed into a storm, in a storm, or coming out of a storm. The question for the believer is not if adversity will strike but what to do when it knocks at our door. Jesus said we would enter the kingdom of God through many tribulations (Acts 14:22). Paraphrased in today’s language, Jesus might say we have a rough row to hoe before we enter God’s presence.
Accepting the blunt reality of trial and hardship is the first step to dealing with adversity. The Christian is no more immune to cancer or hurricanes than the non-Christian. The ruin of the fall and the entrance of sin into the universe adversely affect both man and creation (Rom. 8:22).
We must realize that the primary purpose of adversity is to expose our weakness and drive us to fresh trust and dependence on Jesus Christ. Jesus wants us to trust Him with each burden, each problem, each setback.
He knows that as we trust Him, we will advance in our adversity. In our weakness, we can discover His strength. Ill winds of financial misfortune, illness, divorce, or death may be too much for us to handle; but nothing is too complicated or burdensome for God.
“When a man thinks he has got a good deal of strength...you may look for his downfall.” -Dwight Moody
Someone has described the Christian life as either headed into a storm, in a storm, or coming out of a storm. The question for the believer is not if adversity will strike but what to do when it knocks at our door. Jesus said we would enter the kingdom of God through many tribulations (Acts 14:22). Paraphrased in today’s language, Jesus might say we have a rough row to hoe before we enter God’s presence.
Accepting the blunt reality of trial and hardship is the first step to dealing with adversity. The Christian is no more immune to cancer or hurricanes than the non-Christian. The ruin of the fall and the entrance of sin into the universe adversely affect both man and creation (Rom. 8:22).
We must realize that the primary purpose of adversity is to expose our weakness and drive us to fresh trust and dependence on Jesus Christ. Jesus wants us to trust Him with each burden, each problem, each setback.
He knows that as we trust Him, we will advance in our adversity. In our weakness, we can discover His strength. Ill winds of financial misfortune, illness, divorce, or death may be too much for us to handle; but nothing is too complicated or burdensome for God.
“When a man thinks he has got a good deal of strength...you may look for his downfall.” -Dwight Moody
Tuesday, July 12, 2011
Be a Godly Influence
“For by grace you have been saved through faith; and that not of yourselves, it is the gift of God; not as a result of works, so that no one may boast. For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand so that we would walk in them.” Ephesians 2:8-10
In a mass media culture, it is sometimes difficult for Christians to think they can make a difference. But every believer has the capacity to influence others for Christ’s sake. You must understand your significance to God. God has created you for good works that no one else can duplicate (Eph. 2:10). You are very important to God regardless of your address, income, job, or possessions.
With that in mind, the requirements for a godly influence are not as imposing as you might think. Concentrate on your relationship to Christ. Focus on pleasing Him in your private life - your thoughts, your prayers. Time spent alone with God is the solid foundation for impacting the lives of others.
Be sensitive to peoples’ needs. God’s chief concern is people, and it should be yours as well. Your most lasting influence will be on the lives of others.
Finally, be obedient to God’s basic instructions. Pray. Read His Word. Worship in a local church. Be filled with the Spirit. Love God and your neighbor. In this manner, your influence will be lasting and your life satisfying.
In a mass media culture, it is sometimes difficult for Christians to think they can make a difference. But every believer has the capacity to influence others for Christ’s sake. You must understand your significance to God. God has created you for good works that no one else can duplicate (Eph. 2:10). You are very important to God regardless of your address, income, job, or possessions.
With that in mind, the requirements for a godly influence are not as imposing as you might think. Concentrate on your relationship to Christ. Focus on pleasing Him in your private life - your thoughts, your prayers. Time spent alone with God is the solid foundation for impacting the lives of others.
Be sensitive to peoples’ needs. God’s chief concern is people, and it should be yours as well. Your most lasting influence will be on the lives of others.
Finally, be obedient to God’s basic instructions. Pray. Read His Word. Worship in a local church. Be filled with the Spirit. Love God and your neighbor. In this manner, your influence will be lasting and your life satisfying.
Monday, July 11, 2011
The Freedom of Forgiveness
“The scribes and the Pharisees brought a woman caught in adultery, and having set her in the center of the court, they said to Him, ‘Teacher, this woman has been caught in adultery, in the very act. Now in the Law Moses commanded us to stone such women; what then do You say?’ They were saying this, testing Him, so that they might have grounds for accusing Him. But Jesus stooped down and with His finger wrote on the ground. But when they persisted in asking Him, He straightened up, and said to them, ‘He who is without sin among you, let him be the first to throw a stone at her.’ Again He stooped down and wrote on the ground. When they heard it, they began to go out one by one, beginning with the older ones, and He was left alone, and the woman, where she was, in the center of the court. Straightening up, Jesus said to her, ‘Woman, where are they? Did no one condemn you?’ She said, ‘No one, Lord.’ And Jesus said, ‘I do not condemn you, either. Go. From now on sin no more.’” John 8:3-11
Jesus’ encounter with the woman caught in adultery is a timeless marvel of divine love and forgiveness. But what would have become of His forgiveness if the woman had left without fully receiving and experiencing Christ’s healing love? What if she never forgave herself as Christ did? Would she ever have ever known the miraculous freedom of forgiveness?
Jesus has forgiven us of all sin. He tells us to forgive others a Christ forgives us (Eph. 4:32). If Jesus forgives you, and He asks you to freely extend His forgiveness to those who offend you, is there any reason why you cannot forgive yourself?
You must be able to forgive yourself is you are to truly enjoy the liberation that God’s forgiveness brings. Perhaps you have done something very bad. There is no sin God does not forgive; and therefore, there is no sin that should imprison you.
All forgiveness, including forgiving self, is founded on the solid ground of the cross. To deny yourself forgiveness is to try to obstruct God’s holy love. Don’t wallow any longer in self-pity or guilt that unforgiveness can beget. Fully receive God’s love by forgiving yourself. God has a wonderful plan for your life, and it does not include self condemnation.
“We are unable to love others because we have not learned to love ourselves.” -Walter Trobisch
Jesus’ encounter with the woman caught in adultery is a timeless marvel of divine love and forgiveness. But what would have become of His forgiveness if the woman had left without fully receiving and experiencing Christ’s healing love? What if she never forgave herself as Christ did? Would she ever have ever known the miraculous freedom of forgiveness?
Jesus has forgiven us of all sin. He tells us to forgive others a Christ forgives us (Eph. 4:32). If Jesus forgives you, and He asks you to freely extend His forgiveness to those who offend you, is there any reason why you cannot forgive yourself?
You must be able to forgive yourself is you are to truly enjoy the liberation that God’s forgiveness brings. Perhaps you have done something very bad. There is no sin God does not forgive; and therefore, there is no sin that should imprison you.
All forgiveness, including forgiving self, is founded on the solid ground of the cross. To deny yourself forgiveness is to try to obstruct God’s holy love. Don’t wallow any longer in self-pity or guilt that unforgiveness can beget. Fully receive God’s love by forgiving yourself. God has a wonderful plan for your life, and it does not include self condemnation.
“We are unable to love others because we have not learned to love ourselves.” -Walter Trobisch
Sunday, July 10, 2011
Rejection
“And although you were formerly alienated and hostile in mind, engaged in evil deeds, yet He has now reconciled you in His fleshly body through death, in order to present you before Him holy and blameless and beyond reproach.” Colossians 1:21-22
A loyal company employee is laid off after twenty years. A devoted wife is divorced suddenly by her husband of fifteen years. A once faithful friend no longer desires our fellowship. The pain of rejection is strong. It attacks at the very foundation of our personality - our concept of self-worth. It is we who are rejected.
If we let the assault continue unbridled, we suffer spiritually, emotionally, and physically. We can become prime candidates for bitterness and depression. Is there a way out? Can we recover our self-esteem when another has cast us into the ditch of rejection?
Yes, we can. It is not an easy road out. But there is a biblical path that can upright us, comfort us, and restore us to wholeness. It begins by understanding that even those closest to us are capable of rejecting us. We are imperfect people who often wrongly judge and think. We are all stained by sin. Even the believer is constantly tempted to put self first.
Once we recognize this, we actually can be liberated from being hostage to the opinions of others. Our self-worth is not tied to our performance or another’s faulty judgement but to Christ’s evaluation of us. His appraisal declares us unconditionally accepted and loved.
“...I will never desert you, nor will I ever forsake you.” Hebrews 13:5
A loyal company employee is laid off after twenty years. A devoted wife is divorced suddenly by her husband of fifteen years. A once faithful friend no longer desires our fellowship. The pain of rejection is strong. It attacks at the very foundation of our personality - our concept of self-worth. It is we who are rejected.
If we let the assault continue unbridled, we suffer spiritually, emotionally, and physically. We can become prime candidates for bitterness and depression. Is there a way out? Can we recover our self-esteem when another has cast us into the ditch of rejection?
Yes, we can. It is not an easy road out. But there is a biblical path that can upright us, comfort us, and restore us to wholeness. It begins by understanding that even those closest to us are capable of rejecting us. We are imperfect people who often wrongly judge and think. We are all stained by sin. Even the believer is constantly tempted to put self first.
Once we recognize this, we actually can be liberated from being hostage to the opinions of others. Our self-worth is not tied to our performance or another’s faulty judgement but to Christ’s evaluation of us. His appraisal declares us unconditionally accepted and loved.
“...I will never desert you, nor will I ever forsake you.” Hebrews 13:5
Friday, July 8, 2011
Depression
“As the deer pants for the water brooks,
So my soul pants for You, O God.
My soul thirsts for God, for the living God;
When shall I come and appear before God?
My tears have been my food day and night,
While they say to me all day long, ‘Where is your God?’
These things I remember and I pour out my soul within me.
For I used to go along with the throng and lead them in procession to the house of God,
With the voice of joy and thanksgiving, a multitude keeping festival.
Why are you in despair, O my soul?
And why have you become disturbed within me?
Hope in God, for I shall again praise Him
For the help of His presence.
O my God, my soul is in despair within me;
Therefore I remember You from the land of the Jordan
And the peaks of Hermon, from Mount Mizar.
Deep calls to deep at the sound of Your waterfalls;
All Your breakers and Your waves have rolled over me.
The LORD will command His lovingkindness in the daytime;
And His song will be with me in the night,
A prayer to the God of my life.
I will say to God my rock, ‘Why have You forgotten me?
Why do I go mourning because of the oppression of the enemy?’
As a shattering of my bones, my adversaries revile me,
While they say to me all day long, ‘Where is your God?’
Why are you in despair, O my soul?
And why have you become disturbed within me?
Hope in God, for I shall yet praise Him,
The help of my countenance and my God.” Psalm 42
Deep despair and depression are detectable - not only by the one suffering from it - but also by those who know or deal with that person. How can you break the hold despair sometimes has on you? How can you fathom the depths of depression?
Step one is simply to do something. Inactivity only increases the depth of the mire in which depression wallows.
Step two is to praise the Lord. Try it. When you praise Him, you are looking to Him, trusting Him, relying on Him. Through that activity, you get your eyes off your concern and realize there are infinite, limitless resources of Almighty God that are at your disposal - to help you stand and face anything in life.
When we realize that the omnipotent God of the universe is interested and involved in the events of our lives, our burdens can roll onto His shoulders; our cares can fall at His feet; our troubles can rest in His hands; and our fears can find calm in His peace.
Depression is a debilitating emotion experienced by both men and women.
So my soul pants for You, O God.
My soul thirsts for God, for the living God;
When shall I come and appear before God?
My tears have been my food day and night,
While they say to me all day long, ‘Where is your God?’
These things I remember and I pour out my soul within me.
For I used to go along with the throng and lead them in procession to the house of God,
With the voice of joy and thanksgiving, a multitude keeping festival.
Why are you in despair, O my soul?
And why have you become disturbed within me?
Hope in God, for I shall again praise Him
For the help of His presence.
O my God, my soul is in despair within me;
Therefore I remember You from the land of the Jordan
And the peaks of Hermon, from Mount Mizar.
Deep calls to deep at the sound of Your waterfalls;
All Your breakers and Your waves have rolled over me.
The LORD will command His lovingkindness in the daytime;
And His song will be with me in the night,
A prayer to the God of my life.
I will say to God my rock, ‘Why have You forgotten me?
Why do I go mourning because of the oppression of the enemy?’
As a shattering of my bones, my adversaries revile me,
While they say to me all day long, ‘Where is your God?’
Why are you in despair, O my soul?
And why have you become disturbed within me?
Hope in God, for I shall yet praise Him,
The help of my countenance and my God.” Psalm 42
Deep despair and depression are detectable - not only by the one suffering from it - but also by those who know or deal with that person. How can you break the hold despair sometimes has on you? How can you fathom the depths of depression?
Step one is simply to do something. Inactivity only increases the depth of the mire in which depression wallows.
Step two is to praise the Lord. Try it. When you praise Him, you are looking to Him, trusting Him, relying on Him. Through that activity, you get your eyes off your concern and realize there are infinite, limitless resources of Almighty God that are at your disposal - to help you stand and face anything in life.
When we realize that the omnipotent God of the universe is interested and involved in the events of our lives, our burdens can roll onto His shoulders; our cares can fall at His feet; our troubles can rest in His hands; and our fears can find calm in His peace.
Depression is a debilitating emotion experienced by both men and women.
Thursday, July 7, 2011
Jealousy
“It happened as they were coming, when David returned from killing the Philistine, that the women came out of all the cities of Israel, singing and dancing, to meet King Saul, with tambourines, with joy and with musical instruments. The women sang as they played, and said, ‘Saul has slain his thousands, and David his ten thousands.’
Then Saul became very angry, for this saying displeased him; and he said, ‘They have ascribed to David ten thousands, but to me they have ascribed thousands. Now what more can he have but the kingdom?’ Saul looked at David with suspicion from that day on.
Now it came about on the next day that an evil spirit from God came mightily upon Saul, and he raved in the midst of the house, while David was playing the harp with his hand, as usual; and a spear was in Saul’s hand. Saul hurled the spear for he thought, ‘I will pin David to the wall.’ But David escaped from his presence twice.
Now Saul was afraid of David, for the LORD was with him but had departed from Saul.” 1 Samuel 18:6-12
“For you are still fleshly. For since there is jealousy and strife among you, are you not fleshly, and are you not walking like mere men?” 1 Corinthians 3:3
“For where jealousy and selfish ambition exist, there is disorder and every evil thing.” James 3:16
Notice the downward emotional trend apparent in King Saul’s life in this narrative:
Anger - “Then Saul became very angry, for this saying displeased him” (vs. 8).
Envy - “Saul looked at David with suspicion from that day on.” (vs. 9).
Anxiety - “an evil spirit from God came mightily upon Saul” (vs. 10).
Attempted Murder - “Saul hurled the spear [at David]” (vs. 11).
Fear - “Now Saul was afraid of David” (vs. 12).
How easy it is to let an emotional response of anger slowly turn to hatred and murderous intent. Have you found yourself on a downward emotional spiral, spearheaded by jealousy, rejection, anger, or resentment? The person who suffers the most when you don’t release those feelings is you.
God intends for each of His children to know the joy of unconditional love and total acceptance and the cleansing of forgiveness through the blood of His Son, Jesus Christ. That love, acceptance, and forgiveness is found only in a right relationship with God.
Desire, wrongly directed, can be come jealousy - an emotion to be controlled.
Then Saul became very angry, for this saying displeased him; and he said, ‘They have ascribed to David ten thousands, but to me they have ascribed thousands. Now what more can he have but the kingdom?’ Saul looked at David with suspicion from that day on.
Now it came about on the next day that an evil spirit from God came mightily upon Saul, and he raved in the midst of the house, while David was playing the harp with his hand, as usual; and a spear was in Saul’s hand. Saul hurled the spear for he thought, ‘I will pin David to the wall.’ But David escaped from his presence twice.
Now Saul was afraid of David, for the LORD was with him but had departed from Saul.” 1 Samuel 18:6-12
“For you are still fleshly. For since there is jealousy and strife among you, are you not fleshly, and are you not walking like mere men?” 1 Corinthians 3:3
“For where jealousy and selfish ambition exist, there is disorder and every evil thing.” James 3:16
Notice the downward emotional trend apparent in King Saul’s life in this narrative:
Anger - “Then Saul became very angry, for this saying displeased him” (vs. 8).
Envy - “Saul looked at David with suspicion from that day on.” (vs. 9).
Anxiety - “an evil spirit from God came mightily upon Saul” (vs. 10).
Attempted Murder - “Saul hurled the spear [at David]” (vs. 11).
Fear - “Now Saul was afraid of David” (vs. 12).
How easy it is to let an emotional response of anger slowly turn to hatred and murderous intent. Have you found yourself on a downward emotional spiral, spearheaded by jealousy, rejection, anger, or resentment? The person who suffers the most when you don’t release those feelings is you.
God intends for each of His children to know the joy of unconditional love and total acceptance and the cleansing of forgiveness through the blood of His Son, Jesus Christ. That love, acceptance, and forgiveness is found only in a right relationship with God.
Desire, wrongly directed, can be come jealousy - an emotion to be controlled.
Wednesday, July 6, 2011
The Destruction of Anger
“It happened as they were coming, when David returned from killing the Philistine, that the women came out of all the cities of Israel, singing and dancing, to meet King Saul, with tambourines, with joy and with musical instruments. The women sang as they played, and said, ‘Saul has slain his thousands, and David his ten thousands.’
Then Saul became very angry, for this saying displeased him; and he said, ‘They have ascribed to David ten thousands, but to me they have ascribed thousands. Now what more can he have but the kingdom?’ Saul looked at David with suspicion from that day on.
Now it came about on the next day that an evil spirit from God came mightily upon Saul, and he raved in the midst of the house, while David was playing the harp with his hand, as usual; and a spear was in Saul’s hand. Saul hurled the spear for he thought, ‘I will pin David to the wall.’ But David escaped from his presence twice.
Now Saul was afraid of David, for the LORD was with him but had departed from Saul.” 1 Samuel 18:6-12
Make note of how King Saul’s decline as anger gets the best of him.
When you find yourself angry, how do you deal with your anger? You have four basic avenues through which to channel your anger:
1. You can repress your anger and deny its presence. This is the most dangerous type of anger. It is oftentimes unconscious. It is anger turned inside.
2. You can suppress your anger. You are aware of it, but you hold it in.
3. You can express your anger. Many people are encouraged to “let it all out.” Unfortunately, others are often hurt by their thoughtless expressions of anger.
4. You can confess your anger and get rid of it. Confession should be made in three dimensions:
- Confession to God,
- Confession to yourself,
- Confession to the one with whom you have been angry.
Until you are willing to get rid of anger, it will eat inside like acid.
Do you get angry often? When you get angry, do you take a long time to make things right?
Then Saul became very angry, for this saying displeased him; and he said, ‘They have ascribed to David ten thousands, but to me they have ascribed thousands. Now what more can he have but the kingdom?’ Saul looked at David with suspicion from that day on.
Now it came about on the next day that an evil spirit from God came mightily upon Saul, and he raved in the midst of the house, while David was playing the harp with his hand, as usual; and a spear was in Saul’s hand. Saul hurled the spear for he thought, ‘I will pin David to the wall.’ But David escaped from his presence twice.
Now Saul was afraid of David, for the LORD was with him but had departed from Saul.” 1 Samuel 18:6-12
Make note of how King Saul’s decline as anger gets the best of him.
When you find yourself angry, how do you deal with your anger? You have four basic avenues through which to channel your anger:
1. You can repress your anger and deny its presence. This is the most dangerous type of anger. It is oftentimes unconscious. It is anger turned inside.
2. You can suppress your anger. You are aware of it, but you hold it in.
3. You can express your anger. Many people are encouraged to “let it all out.” Unfortunately, others are often hurt by their thoughtless expressions of anger.
4. You can confess your anger and get rid of it. Confession should be made in three dimensions:
- Confession to God,
- Confession to yourself,
- Confession to the one with whom you have been angry.
Until you are willing to get rid of anger, it will eat inside like acid.
Do you get angry often? When you get angry, do you take a long time to make things right?
Tuesday, July 5, 2011
Released From Guilt
And He said, “A man had two sons. The younger of them said to his father, ‘Father, give me the share of the estate that falls to me.’ So he divided his wealth between them. And not many days later, the younger son gathered everything together and went on a journey into a distant country, and there he squandered his estate with loose living. Now when he had spent everything, a severe famine occurred in that country, and he began to be impoverished. So he went and hired himself out to one of the citizens of that country, and he sent him into his fields to feed swine. And he would have gladly filled his stomach with the pods that the swine were eating, and no one was giving anything to him. But when he came to his senses, he said, ‘How many of my father’s hired men have more than enough bread, but I am dying here with hunger! I will get up and go to my father, and will say to him, “Father, I have sinned against heaven, and in your sight; I am no longer worthy to be called your son; make me as one of your hired men.”’ So he got up and came to his father. But while he was still a long way off, his father saw him and felt compassion for him, and ran and embraced him and kissed him. And the son said to him, ‘Father, I have sinned against heaven and in your sight; I am no longer worthy to be called your son.’ But the father said to his slaves, ‘Quickly bring out the best robe and put it on him, and put a ring on his hand and sandals on his feet; and bring the fattened calf, kill it, and let us eat and celebrate; for this son of mine was dead and has come to life again; he was lost and has been found.’ And they began to celebrate.” Luke 15:11-24
Each of the emotions we are dealing with stem from sin; they stem from a wrong reaction to a situation in life. Anxiety, loneliness, fear, and guilt are all results of wrong responses.
Probably a most common and hard to deal with emotion is that of guilt. We won’t even go into false guilt. What about the real guilt we encounter - real guilt over real sin? How can a person deal with and get rid of the grinding effects of real guilt?
Step one - confess your sin. Tell God what it is by name.
Step two - confess your sin to the person involved.
Step three - make amends.
Step four - accept God’s forgiveness. This may sound easy but it probably the hardest to accomplish.
The problem with getting relief, liberty, and release from guilt is not whether God will forgive but whether you are able to accept God’s forgiveness. When you are released from guilt, you experience a lightness of spirit which no words can describe. It’s worth the effort.
Have you done something and you fear that you’ll be found out and punished?
Each of the emotions we are dealing with stem from sin; they stem from a wrong reaction to a situation in life. Anxiety, loneliness, fear, and guilt are all results of wrong responses.
Probably a most common and hard to deal with emotion is that of guilt. We won’t even go into false guilt. What about the real guilt we encounter - real guilt over real sin? How can a person deal with and get rid of the grinding effects of real guilt?
Step one - confess your sin. Tell God what it is by name.
Step two - confess your sin to the person involved.
Step three - make amends.
Step four - accept God’s forgiveness. This may sound easy but it probably the hardest to accomplish.
The problem with getting relief, liberty, and release from guilt is not whether God will forgive but whether you are able to accept God’s forgiveness. When you are released from guilt, you experience a lightness of spirit which no words can describe. It’s worth the effort.
Have you done something and you fear that you’ll be found out and punished?
Monday, July 4, 2011
The Fourth of July
“Righteousness exalts a nation, but sin is a disgrace to any people.” Proverbs 14:34
As we celebrate our freedom today, let me remind you of some things Thomas Jefferson said -
“The democracy will cease to exist when you take away from those who are willing to work and give to those who would not.”
“It is incumbent on every generation to pay its own debts as it goes. A principle which if acted on would save one-half the wars of the world.”
“I predict future happiness for Americans if they can prevent the government from wasting the labors of the people under the pretense of taking care of them.”
Written over 200 years ago.
God help us, and God bless America!
As we celebrate our freedom today, let me remind you of some things Thomas Jefferson said -
“The democracy will cease to exist when you take away from those who are willing to work and give to those who would not.”
“It is incumbent on every generation to pay its own debts as it goes. A principle which if acted on would save one-half the wars of the world.”
“I predict future happiness for Americans if they can prevent the government from wasting the labors of the people under the pretense of taking care of them.”
Written over 200 years ago.
God help us, and God bless America!
Sunday, July 3, 2011
The Grip of Fear
“Immediately He made the disciples get into the boat and go ahead of Him to the other side, while He sent the crowds away. After He had sent the crowds away, He went up on the mountain by Himself to pray; and when it was evening, He was there alone. But the boat was already a long distance from the land, battered by the waves; for the wind was contrary. And in the fourth watch of the night He came to them, walking on the sea. When the disciples saw Him walking on the sea, they were terrified, and said, ‘It is a ghost!’ And they cried out in fear. But immediately Jesus spoke to them, saying, ‘Take courage, it is I; do not be afraid.’
Peter said to Him, ‘Lord, if it is You, command me to come to You on the water.’ And He said, ‘Come!’ And Peter got out of the boat, and walked on the water and came toward Jesus. But seeing the wind, he became frightened, and beginning to sink, he cried out, ‘Lord, save me!’ Immediately Jesus stretched out His hand and took hold of him, and said to him, ‘You of little faith, why did you doubt?’ When they got into the boat, the wind stopped. And those who were in the boat worshiped Him, saying, ‘You are certainly God’s Son!’” Matthew 14:22-33
We experience six basic fears:
1. Fear of poverty, lack of income, or the ability to meet basic needs.
2. Fear of death. It is unknown and uncontrollable.
3. Fear of ill health, sickness.
4. Fear of the loss of love or the lack of it.
5. Fear of old age and facing its uncertainty.
6. Fear of criticism or what others think or say.
Men who are frightened of God are disobedient in heart. How do you recover from the grip of fear? Take these steps:
1. Instantly redirect your gaze to God. The presence of God equals His power, and His power and presence overcome all difficulty or fear (Isaiah 41:10; 54:17).
2. Depend wholly on God. You cannot sink standing on the eternal rock, Christ Jesus (Matt. 14:31).
3. God could be using you to teach someone else a lesson about trusting Him.
Fear - let it fall before the presence of your loving Heavenly Father. Many people suffer from the feeling of fear, and fear that paralyzes keeps us from what God wants.
Peter said to Him, ‘Lord, if it is You, command me to come to You on the water.’ And He said, ‘Come!’ And Peter got out of the boat, and walked on the water and came toward Jesus. But seeing the wind, he became frightened, and beginning to sink, he cried out, ‘Lord, save me!’ Immediately Jesus stretched out His hand and took hold of him, and said to him, ‘You of little faith, why did you doubt?’ When they got into the boat, the wind stopped. And those who were in the boat worshiped Him, saying, ‘You are certainly God’s Son!’” Matthew 14:22-33
We experience six basic fears:
1. Fear of poverty, lack of income, or the ability to meet basic needs.
2. Fear of death. It is unknown and uncontrollable.
3. Fear of ill health, sickness.
4. Fear of the loss of love or the lack of it.
5. Fear of old age and facing its uncertainty.
6. Fear of criticism or what others think or say.
Men who are frightened of God are disobedient in heart. How do you recover from the grip of fear? Take these steps:
1. Instantly redirect your gaze to God. The presence of God equals His power, and His power and presence overcome all difficulty or fear (Isaiah 41:10; 54:17).
2. Depend wholly on God. You cannot sink standing on the eternal rock, Christ Jesus (Matt. 14:31).
3. God could be using you to teach someone else a lesson about trusting Him.
Fear - let it fall before the presence of your loving Heavenly Father. Many people suffer from the feeling of fear, and fear that paralyzes keeps us from what God wants.
Friday, July 1, 2011
Loneliness
“The LORD God commanded the man, saying, ‘From any tree of the garden you may eat freely; but from the tree of the knowledge of good and evil you shall not eat, for in the day that you eat from it you will surely die.’ Then the LORD God said, ‘It is not good for the man to be alone; I will make him a helper suitable for him.’” Genesis 2:16-18
In a true fellowship of believers, one emotion should never be known by anyone - loneliness. And yet in all too many groups of believers, there are those who live in a little, isolated world of their own choosing, and sometimes circumstances have made them alone.
How do you respond to a lonely person? Are you sensitive to their need for reassurance? They are valuable individuals and may be very intelligent people, but they are lonely.
Not your responsibility? Think again and read Galatians 6:2 - “Bear one another’s burdens, and thereby fulfill the law of Christ.” The burden of loneliness divides the mind, clouds the heart, weakens the hands, weighs down the feet, and steals the smile. That burden can be lightened (if not lifted) by one who extends the hand of true Christian friendship.
Here’s an exercise for the lonely. Read and re-read Psalm 139 - the whole chapter. You’ll recognize God’s wonderful care and concern for you personally.
There is a distinction between being alone and being lonely.
In a true fellowship of believers, one emotion should never be known by anyone - loneliness. And yet in all too many groups of believers, there are those who live in a little, isolated world of their own choosing, and sometimes circumstances have made them alone.
How do you respond to a lonely person? Are you sensitive to their need for reassurance? They are valuable individuals and may be very intelligent people, but they are lonely.
Not your responsibility? Think again and read Galatians 6:2 - “Bear one another’s burdens, and thereby fulfill the law of Christ.” The burden of loneliness divides the mind, clouds the heart, weakens the hands, weighs down the feet, and steals the smile. That burden can be lightened (if not lifted) by one who extends the hand of true Christian friendship.
Here’s an exercise for the lonely. Read and re-read Psalm 139 - the whole chapter. You’ll recognize God’s wonderful care and concern for you personally.
There is a distinction between being alone and being lonely.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)