Category: Encouragement

Yet will I exult in the Lord, I will rejoice in the God of my salvation. The Lord God is my strength.

Habakkuk 3:18-19

It seemed strange last week when someone at church suggested that I read the book of Habakkuk, one of the Old Testament prophets.  I had read it a long time ago in a Bible study, but I decided to read it again this week.  It’s very short, only three chapters.  But I’ve been reading it and thinking about it all week.  The prophet Habakkuk is crying out to God with his complaints about the condition of his world (between 612 and 589 B.C.).  He sees that violence is everywhere…evil deeds, misery, surrounded by people who love to argue and fight… no justice in the courts…The wicked far outnumber the righteous…

As we look at the current events taking place in the world today, we might be tempted to ask the same thing that Habakkuk asked: “How long, O Lord, must I call for help? But you do not listen!”  The devastation of earthquakes, floods, fires, the pandemic which has caused hundreds of thousands of deaths, hospitals full to overflowing, disruption of our way of life with business and schools, the political dissension, the heartbreaking situation in Afghanistan…  The list can go on and on. 

The Lord’s response to Habakkuk was “Look around at the nations, look and be amazed! For I am doing something in your own day, something you wouldn’t believe even if someone told you about it.”  He tells Habakkuk of the judgment that He is bringing on His people in Judah.  The Lord goes on to tell Habakkuk “This vision is for a future time.  It describes the end, and it will be fulfilled.  If it seems slow in coming, wait patiently, for it will surely take place.  It will not be delayed.” 

After Habakkuk’s conversations and questions about what God was doing, he concludes by declaring his faith in God: 

Habakkuk 3:16 (NLT) I will wait quietly for the coming day… Even though the fig trees have no blossoms, and there are no grapes on the vines; even though the olive crop fails, and the fields lie empty and barren; even though the flocks die in the fields, and the cattle barns are empty, yet I will rejoice in the Lord! I will be joyful in the God of my salvation! The Sovereign Lord is my strength! He makes me as surefooted as a deer, able to tread upon the heights.

I am greatly encouraged by the reminder I read in the footnotes of my NLT Life Application Study Bible:

Habakkuk 3:17-19 Habakkuk affirmed that even in times of starvation and loss, he would still rejoice in the Lord.  His feelings were not controlled by the events around him but by faith in God’s ability to give him strength.  When nothing makes sense, and when troubles seem more than you can bear, remember that God gives strength…. Habakkuk saw his own limitations in contrast to God’s unlimited power and control of all the world’s events.  God is alive and in control of the world and its events.  We cannot see all that God is doing, and we cannot see all that God will do.  But we can be assured that he is God and will do what is right.  Knowing this can give us confidence and hope in a confusing world.

            We can pray for strength to hold on to the truth that God is sovereignly in control of all the events of our lives, even though we can’t see an answer.  We can ask Him for faith to keep on believing that He sees what we are going through and promises to provide what we need, in His time.  He promises that He is with us and will never leave us.  We can wait patiently and rejoice in Him as we trust.

PERSONAL REFLECTION

What situation in your life causes you to respond as Habakkuk did?  “How long, O Lord, must I cry out to You?”  And you can’t see an answer.  Maybe there is an ongoing health issue, or a broken relationship, financial burdens, unsaved loved ones, wayward children, death of a loved one…

Can you pray and trust God as you fill in the blank:  Even though ______________________________________________________________________________________________yet I will exult in the Lord, I will rejoice in the God of my salvation.  The Lord God is my strength.

You may want to write a prayer to God expressing your need, your trust, your commitment to rejoice in His strength as you wait for His answer

My soul waits in silence for God only; from Him comes my salvation.  He only is my rock and my salvation, my stronghold.  I shall not be greatly shaken.

Psalm 62:1-2

For 17 years, I had to fly to Denver when I wanted to visit my daughter and her family.  Thankfully, they moved here 8 years ago and they live only 3 minutes from us!  But my daughter and I still have “Denver Days” together.  We both love to play games, go out for lunch, do some shopping, stop for ice cream…  all of our favorite things for several hours.  It brings us great joy spending that time together.

         A few days ago, we were enjoying a Denver Day.  As we were playing a game, she remembered a song they have been singing at their church called “Make Room” by Community Music. It had made a personal impact on her life recently and she wanted to share it with me.  (You can listen to it on YouTube.) She found the lyrics on her phone so I could follow along as we listened to the song.  It’s a lengthy song, with several repeated stanzas – a beautiful prayer of surrender and a commitment to do whatever God wants me to do.  We listened to the song, and I commented on the beautiful message.  She shared how it had impacted her, and then we went back to playing games.

But the next morning, before even getting out of bed, one of the stanzas of the song came to mind:

“Shake up the ground of all my tradition; Break down the walls of all my religion.” 

God used those words to speak to my heart as I spent my morning quiet time with Him. I’m very disciplined about getting up early in the morning, coming to the place where I can be alone to pray, read my Bible and a couple of devotional messages.  I even have a system for writing down what I learn about God from what I have read, and how I am to respond to what I’ve read.  Discipline is good, and even necessary, but not if it becomes a rigid routine. 

  I was convicted by how often my own “traditions” may get in the way of truly just being with God. The verse came to mind from Psalm 46:10: Be still and know that I am God.  Whenever I read that verse, I usually focus on the word “still.”  But that morning, the word “be” is what captured my thoughts.  Just to “be” with God, worshiping Him for who He is, thanking Him for what He has done, and then listening to whatever He wants to say to me as I quiet my heart to listen.

I felt Him calling me to set aside my daily “traditions” and make room for Him to draw me even deeper into a love relationship with Him.  I am asking Him to create in me a true heart of worship in the time I spend with Him.  He reminded me that I am not just His servant, I am His beloved daughter.  I want to make sure that my relationship with God is a true heart connection with Him, not a rigid routine.  I want to “Make Room” for Him!

PERSONAL REFLECTION

How do you “make room” to be with God? 

Do you feel the desire to make any changes in your life in order to hear Him speaking to you?  You can even ask Him to give you that desire.

The fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control…

Galatians 5:22

The worship team at our church introduced a new song this week.  It is a prayer that has deeply impacted my heart and mind, and I want to share it with you here.  You can find the song on YouTube to hear the music along with the words. 

 Less Like Me

Zach Williams

Oh, I have days I lose the fight
Try my best but just don’t get it right
Where I talk a talk that I don’t walk
And miss the moments right before my eyes

Somebody with a hurt that I could have helped
Somebody with a hand that I could have held
When I just can’t see past myself
Lord, help me be

A little more like mercy, a little more like grace
A little more like kindness, goodness, love, and faith
A little more like patience, a little more like peace
A little more like Jesus, a little less like me

Yeah, there’s no denying I have changed
‘Cause I’ve been saved from who I used to be
But even at my best, I must confess
I still need help to see the way You see

Somebody with a hurt that I could have helped
Somebody with a hand that I could have held
When I just can’t see past myself
Lord, help me be

A little more like mercy, a little more like grace
A little more like kindness, goodness, love, and faith
A little more like patience, a little more like peace
A little more like Jesus, a little less like me

Oh, I wanna feed the beggar on the street
Learn to be Your hands and feet
Freely give what I receive
Lord, help me be
I want put You first above all else
Love my neighbor as myself
In the moments no one sees
Lord, help me be
(One, two, three)

A little more like mercy, a little more like grace
A little more like kindness, goodness, love, and faith
A little more like patience, a little more like peace
A little more like Jesus, oh, a little less like me

A little more of living everything I preach
A little more like Jesus, a little less like me
Oh, a little less like me

*********************************

As I read the repeated chorus, I realized that these qualities (kindness, goodness, love, faith, patience, peace) are the fruit of the Spirit in the Bible, Galatians 5:22.  As followers of Jesus who have been saved by Him, we have the Holy Spirit living in us. To live more like Jesus, it’s not enough to just make up my mind to try harder to live this way. I need to ask Him to change my heart as I depend on His Spirit in me moment by moment to live “more like Jesus, less like me.” 

            Our pastor challenged us to read through the Psalms this summer. As I read each chapter, I’ve written what I learn about the Lord.  Over and over, I see His lovingkindness and compassion. He is our help and our hope in times of trouble.  He is a God who hears us when we cry out to Him, and He is a God who speaks to us through His Word.

            To be more like Jesus, I need to spend time each day in His Word, listening to what He has to say to me.  I can ask Him each day, “Is there someone who is hurting that I can help?  Is there someone who just needs a listening ear and encouragement?”  And then I can ask Him for a heart that is willing to reach out in love to others, to lead them to Jesus who is their hope.

PERSONAL REFLECTION

Is there someone God has put on your heart that needs the hope and encouragement you can offer them through Jesus?

It’s easy to feel like we just don’t have what it takes to help someone who is hurting.  But we can trust God for the words of encouragement He wants them to hear. We can ask Him for a willing heart and wisdom to know what to do and what to say.  We can help them turn to Jesus who loves them and is filled with love, kindness, compassion, faithfulness.  He is the One who knows what they need, but He can use us to be His hands and feet and voice as we reach out to them.

I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go. 

I will counsel you with My eye upon you.

Psalm 32:8

It happened 18 years ago, but it’s a lesson I’ll never forget! My husband and I had been struggling for a long time with the decision whether to sell our home in California and move back to Spokane, Washington, where we were both born and raised. We had been away for 33 years, but most of our family was still living in the state.  We were both feeling like it would be nice to live close to family again.

The housing market was wild in California at that time. Homes placed on the market would sell within a few days for thousands of dollars over the asking price.  So, we finally put our home on the market and were confident it would sell immediately – a remodeled home in a nice neighborhood, good schools, parks nearby – a very desirable location.

But we waited…and waited…  Two months went by without a single offer!  We couldn’t imagine why our house didn’t sell.  We finally made the decision to take it off the market.  Maybe in the future we would try again.  We called the realtor with our decision.  Someone soon came to take down the “For Sale” sign.  While he was in the process of removing the sign, we got a phone call from a realtor asking if he could bring someone to see our house.  Two separate couples came on that same day, and we received an offer!  Our house sold!!

The next step was to fly to Spokane to look for a home.  We contacted a realtor and planned to stay five days.  At the end of five days, we still had not found a home that we could agree on.  We were discouraged, and literally on our way back to the airport when my husband asked if I wanted to see one more home that he had seen on the internet. It had several things we didn’t want, but we went to see it anyway.  We didn’t have a realtor with us, and there wasn’t even a “For Sale” sign.  The owner at first refused to let us in since she wasn’t ready for an open house that day.  It had only been on the market for 17 days. After explaining our situation, she reluctantly agreed to let us in, and within 15 minutes we knew this was the house we wanted.  But we were on our way to the airport for our flight back to California! 

We contacted our realtor, told him about the house, asked him to check it out for us.  By that night when we arrived back in California, he had faxed us papers to sign.  The next morning, the owner accepted our offer!  We were astounded!

Here is the lesson I learned through that experience:  I had been praying for God’s will through the whole process.  There were times of confusion and disappointment when our home didn’t sell, and again when we couldn’t find a home in Spokane.  But all along I was trusting God for His plan and His timing.  I had to keep reminding myself that God knew the plan He has for us.

Looking back over these last 18 years, I am thrilled with God’s plan!  Each time there is a new choice to make, I remember.  I love seeing His plan unfold in His perfect timing.  My faith has grown strong as I continue to trust God for everything! 

Here are some Scriptures I have printed out so I can look at them often and be encouraged.  I pray they will encourage you too!

Jeremiah 29:11 For I know the plans that I have for you, declares the Lord…

Proverbs 3:5-6 Trust in the Lord with all your heart and do not lean on your own understanding.  In all your ways acknowledge Him and He will direct your paths.

Psalm 32:8 I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go.  I will counsel you with My eye upon you.

Psalm 37:7 Rest in the Lord and wait patiently for Him…

PERSONAL REFLECTION

Is there a choice you need to make right now?  You can pray and ask God to give you the faith to believe that He has the answer.

Choose a Scripture to memorize and repeat it often to remind you that God has a plan for you, and He will lead as you choose to trust Him.

If you are confused and discouraged, find someone who will pray with you and help you trust that God has the answer.  He is faithful to His promises!

We will not fear though the earth shakes and the mountains slip into the heart of the sea.

Psalm 46:2

This Scripture spoke to me especially this week. As I think of all that is going on in the world, fear is a natural reaction to so much of what is happening all around us. The global pandemic has changed our world.  The loss of so many lives, serious health issues, jobs lost, financial insecurity, businesses closed forever. And daily news reports fires, floods, earthquakes, famine, drought, wars…

Personally, I am experiencing a situation that initially caused a “mountain” of fear.  As I deal with it, I am so aware that it is not a one-time battle to overcome fear.  And yet God’s Word tells us “Do not fear…”  We know from 1 Peter 5:7 that we have an “enemy who prowls about like a roaring lion seeking someone to devour.” Our enemy, Satan, will attempt to get us caught up in fear of our circumstances, or what might happen in the future.  But we have a choice – we can listen to the enemy and give in to fear, or choose to hear God’s words of truth and trust Him.  No matter what!

As I read through the Psalms this summer, I am making a list of what they teach me about God.  Over and over, I read of God’s love and faithfulness that endures forever. He sees everything that is going on, and He hears when we cry out to Him.  I’m encouraged by so many verses which tell us God is our shield, our refuge, our deliverer, our protector, our rock, our fortress. 

As followers of Jesus, we can claim the promises in His Word. There are many more, but I have chosen just a few that greatly encourage me. When you are tempted to fear, read these Scriptures and take courage. 

Isaiah 41:10

Fear not for I am with you. Do not be afraid for I am your God.  I will strengthen you; I will also help you; I will also uphold you with My righteous right hand.

Philippians 4:6-7

Be anxious for nothing, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.  And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.

2 Timothy 1:7

For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind.

Psalm 56:3

When I am afraid, I put my trust in You.

Psalm 23:4

Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me.

Joshua 1:9

Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous.  Do not be afraid, do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.

Psalm 27:5

In the day of trouble He will conceal me in His tabernacle.  He will lift me up on a rock.

We will all go through circumstances that can cause us to fear. Trusting God is the solution to fear.  But we have to know who God is and what He has promised in His Word.  And we have to claim His promises and choose to believe.  We may have to make that choice many times a day when fear threatens.  We can stand firm in Him and not be shaken. 

PERSONAL REFLECTION

What “mountains” are you personally experiencing now that could cause you to fear?

Fill in the blank for yourself: Even if _____________________, I will not fear. I will choose to trust my God.

Remember that we have an enemy who is out to destroy us. Fear is one of his tactics.  Which of these Scriptures will you choose to focus on when you are tempted to fear? Consider printing them out and keeping them in a place where you can refer to them often.

Maybe you are in a season of life where all is well with you.  Thank God for that!  There may be family or friends that you could share these verses with to encourage them.

I’ve copied these words from Lauren Daigle’s song “I Will Trust.”  You can go to YouTube and listen to her sing it.  It is such an encouragement to trust God when we are facing a mountain of fear.

  I Will Trust

… Letting go of every single dream
I lay each one down at Your feet
Every moment of my wandering
Never changes what You see
I’ve tried to win this war, I confess
My hands are weary, I need Your rest
Mighty warrior, King of the fight
No matter what I face, You’re by my side

… When You don’t move the mountains
I’m needing You to move
When You don’t part the waters
I wish I could walk through
When You don’t give the answers
As I cry out to You
I will trust, I will trust
I will trust in You

… Truth is, You know what tomorrow brings
There’s not a day ahead You have not seen
So in all things be my life and breath
I want what You want, Lord, and nothing less

… When You don’t move the mountains
I’m needing You to move
When You don’t part the waters
I wish I could walk through
When You don’t give the answers
As I cry out to You
I will trust, I will trust
I will trust in You
I will trust in You

… You are my strength and comfort
You are my steady hand
You are my firm foundation
The rock on which I stand
Your ways are always higher
Your plans are always good
There’s not a place where I’ll go
You’ve not already stood

… When You don’t move the mountains
I’m needing You to move
When You don’t part the waters
I wish I could walk through
When You don’t give the answers
As I cry out to You
I will trust, I will trust
I will trust in You
I will trust in You
I will trust in You
I will trust in You

Now to Him who is able to do far more abundantly beyond all that we ask or think, according to the power that works within us, to Him be the glory in the church and in Christ Jesus to all generations forever and ever. Amen.

Ephesians 3:20-21

The first thought that came to mind as I awakened this morning was about the abundant blessings God has given me.  I thank Him above all else for His love and for the incomparable gift of salvation!  The words “abundant” and “lavish” came to mind, and I began thinking about the Scriptures that use those words to describe God’s love and His actions toward those who belong to Him.

Eph. 1:7-8 In Him we have redemption through His blood, the forgiveness of our wrongdoings, according to the riches of His grace which He lavished on us. (Notice especially the word “lavished.”  The dictionary defines lavish: “bestow something in generous or extravagant quantities on.” 

In order to forgive and redeem us, it cost God the death of His Son on the cross! (John 3:16) Nothing could show us greater love than that!

John 10:10 I came that they may have life, and have it abundantly.

Matthew 14:13-21 Jesus asked the disciples to provide food for the multitudes that had followed them.  An impossible task!  But with the five loaves of bread and two fish that were available, Jesus miraculously provided food for thousands of people with food left over!  He is able to take what little we have to offer Him and turn it into more than enough for the task He has called us to do. 

Psalm 86:5 For You, Lord, are good, and ready to forgive, and abundant in lovingkindness to all who call upon You.

Psalm 86:15 But You, O Lord, are a God merciful and gracious, slow to anger and abundant in lovingkindness and truth.

I am reminded today to be grateful for all God has done for me, and to give Him the praise!

PERSONAL REFLECTION

Whatever is going on in your life right now, even if the situation seems impossible, I pray that you will be encouraged as you are reminded of God’s Word and His love for you.

Maybe you are in a season in which you are experiencing God’s lavish blessing.  Thank Him for that!

Remember that He is able to do “far more abundantly beyond what we ask or think!” 

Lord, we give you all the glory!

Last week I shared author Mark Buchanan’s definition of God’s sovereignty: “God made all, rules all, and overrules all that stands in his way” (“The Rest of God,” p. 74).  I also shared the definition I learned from a Bible teacher years ago: “God can do anything He wants, any time He wants, any way He wants, for any purpose He wants to accomplish.”

That could lead us to believe that God is in charge, and what we do with our lives, the choices we make, ultimately makes no difference.  Nothing could be further from the truth, especially as it relates to salvation and eternal life. 

Several years ago, I did an extensive study of Scripture so I could understand for myself what to believe about this mystery of God’s sovereignty and man’s responsibility to choose to receive or reject His offer of salvation.  It is true that God is sovereign and has chosen or predestined some for salvation. But it is also true that He has given everyone free will to receive or reject His offer.  This is a difficult doctrine, but there are many Scriptures to support both.

Here are just a few of the verses that tell us we are chosen by God:

Ephesians 1:4 …He chose us in Him before the foundation of the world.  In love, He predestined us to adoption as sons through Jesus Christ to Himself…

1 Peter 1:1-2 …chosen according to the foreknowledge of God the Father

John 15:16 You did not choose Me, but I chose you…

And here are a few verses that teach us about our free will to choose God:

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

Acts 16:31 Believe on the Lord Jesus, and you shall be saved…

Romans 10:13 Whoever will call on the name of the Lord will be saved.

Revelation 3:20 Behold, I stand at the door and knock; if anyone hears My voice and opens the door, I will come in to him, and will dine with him, and he with Me.

After studying the Scriptures for myself, I have come to strongly agree with this explanation from the Believer’s Bible Commentary on Romans 9:

“In His sovereignty, God has elected or chosen certain individuals to belong to Himself.  But the same Bible that teaches God’s sovereign election also teaches human responsibility.  While it is true that God elects people to salvation, it is also true they must choose to be saved by a definite act of the will.  The divine side of salvation is seen in the words, “All that the Father gives Me will come to Me.”  The human side is found in the words that follow: “and the one who comes to Me I will by no means cast out” (John 6:37) …

How can God choose individuals to belong to Himself and at the same time make a bona fide offer of salvation to all people everywhere?  How can we reconcile these two truths?  The fact is that we cannot.  To the human mind they are in conflict.  But the Bible teaches both doctrines, and so we should believe them, content to know that the difficulty lies in our minds and not in God’s.  These twin truths are like two parallel lines that meet only in infinity.”

One final thought from Romans 1:19: That which is known about God is evident within them; for God made it evident to them.  For since the creation of the world His invisible attributes, His eternal power and divine nature, have been clearly seen, being understood through what has been made, so that they are without excuse.

            I pray this will help you as it has helped me.

I am God, and there is no one like Me, declaring the end from the beginning; …My purpose will be established, and I will accomplish all My good pleasure… Truly I have spoken; truly I will bring it to pass…

Isaiah 46:9-10

I love this simple definition of God’s sovereignty from author Mark Buchanan: “God made all, rules all, and overrules all that stands in his way” (“The Rest of God,” p. 74). 

Another Bible teacher years ago taught us that “God can do anything He wants, any time He wants, any way He wants, for any purpose He wants to accomplish.”

That would not be good news unless we also understand the character of God.  We know from His Word that He is love, and that He is good.  He gave His Son Jesus to die for the sins of the world so that we could have eternal life with Him.  Our part is to believe Him and personally receive this gift of salvation by faith.

For those who belong to Jesus, this is a truth that provides a firm foundation for our life, no matter what we are going through. We can be absolutely secure knowing that God is sovereign over every detail of our life.  He is all knowing, all powerful, nothing is impossible or outside of His control.  If He has allowed something in our life, it is because He has a purpose for it.  We may not understand, but we can trust Him.

I pray that whatever you are experiencing right now, you will be encouraged as you remember that God is in charge.  He can change circumstances at any time.  But if He does not, He promises to walk through them moment by moment with you.  He offers strength, peace, wisdom, comfort to those who belong to Him and seek Him with all our heart.

There are many Scriptures that assure us of God’s sovereignty.  I’ve chosen just a few for today:

Isaiah 44:24, 27 The LORD of hosts has sworn saying, “Surely, just as I have intended so it has happened, and just as I have planned so it will stand…:

Is 46:9-11  I am God, and there is no other; …no one like Me, declaring the end from the beginning… My purpose will be established, and I will accomplish all My good pleasure… I have planned it, surely I will do it.

Daniel 2:20-23 He removes kings and establishes kings; He gives wisdom to wise men, and knowledge to men of understanding…

Proverbs 21:1 A king’s heart is like streams of water in the Lord’s hand.  He directs it wherever He chooses.

John 19:10-11 Pilate said to Jesus, “Do you not know that I have authority to release You, and I have authority to crucify You?”  Jesus answered, “You would have no authority over Me unless it had been given you from above…”

PERSONAL REFLECTION

Are there circumstances in your life right now that seem “out of control?” How are you encouraged by the truth of God’s sovereignty?

In the Psalms we read of people crying out to God in times of trouble.  We are assured that God hears.  Nahum 1:7 The Lord is good, a stronghold in the day of trouble, and He knows those who take refuge in Him (NASB).

Write a prayer to God.  Ask Him to make this truth real in your life today.

…let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, fixing our eyes on Jesus,the author and perfecter of faith…

Hebrews 12:1-2

Many years have passed since I learned this lesson personally, but I’ll never forget it!  My husband had been diagnosed with a blood disorder and had been hospitalized for a total of six weeks for surgery and other treatment.  Our two children were young at the time, and there was no assurance of a favorable outcome from the medical staff. 

I was attending a weekly Bible study at the time.  In the midst of all the concern about my husband’s health, our car broke down three times while he was in the hospital.  Each time, God provided someone to fix what was wrong.  The 3^rd time it broke down, I was on my way to Bible study.  I contacted the leader to let her know I wouldn’t be there.  Instead, she sent someone to come and pick me up.  My plan was to leave the car at the side of the road indefinitely.  I’d had enough!!  The Bible study leader told me that God was stretching my faith.  I told her that if I showed up the following week in two pieces, she would realize I had been stretched too far!  She assured me that God wouldn’t let that happen. 

I identified with Peter at that time.  As long as I was keeping my eyes on Jesus and the promises of His faithfulness, His provision, His constant presence, I could “walk on water” above the circumstances.  But as soon as my focus shifted to all the uncertainties and difficulties, I “started to sink.”

I love reading the story of Peter in Matthew 14:22-33.  It was Jesus who tole the disciples to get into the boat and go ahead of Him to the other side of the lake.  This happened right after His miracle of feeding the 5,000.  Jesus had sent the crowds away and had gone up to the mountain by Himself to pray.  In the fourth watch of the night (3:00-6:00 a.m.) Jesus came walking on the water toward the boat. The disciples were terrified and cried out in fear, thinking they were seeing a ghost!  Jesus said, “Take courage, it is I; do not be afraid.” 

Peter said, “Lord, if it is You, command me to come to You on the water.”  Jesus said, “Come.” And Peter got out of the boat, and walked on the water and came toward Jesus.  But seeing the wind and the waves, 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 when they were in the boat, the wind stopped.  All those in the boat worshiped Him, saying, “You are certainly “God’s Son!”

Don’t you admire Peter’s faith which strong enough to step out of the boat onto the waves?  As long as His eyes were on Jesus, He was walking on water! 

What an encouragement to be assured that Jesus knows exactly where we are and what we are going through.  At all times! And no matter what the circumstances. He is there with us.  There is nothing impossible with Him. 

I encourage you to find the lyrics to the song by Casting Crowns called The Voice of Truth.  It speaks of the desire for the kind of courage it takes to step out of our comfort zone into the crashing waves where Jesus is.  The last line of the song says “I will choose to listen and believe the voice of truth.”

We have an enemy, Satan, who would want us to look at the difficult circumstances around us and just give in to fear and despair.  It’s important to remember that we have a choice.  We can remain terrified and in despair, or we can listen to the voice of the One who calls us to keep our eyes on Him and trust His deliverance.

As Hebrews 12:1-2 says, He is the author and perfecter of our faith.  He does allow difficult circumstances in our lives, but He will use them to strengthen our faith and draw us closer to Himself. 

PERSONAL REFLECTION

Are you in a storm of crashing waves in your life right now?  Can you hear Jesus calling out to you to come to Him in trust that He can calm that storm?

Or maybe you know someone who is experiencing extreme difficulties.  Will you be praying for them and encouraging them to hear Jesus’ voice of truth, that He is with them and will faithfully provide what they need.

What are some of the ways you can choose to keep your eyes on Jesus?

Be sure to carry out the ministry God gave you.

Colossians 4:17 (NLT)

A few months ago, I started a notebook especially for my time alone with God.  As I read the Bible or other devotional messages, I write down specific words or phrases that God speaks to my heart.  As I read back over that list, I’m reminded of specific Scriptures and messages that encourage me.

Today as I was looking at the list, the Scripture that stood out to me is Colossians 4:17 “Be sure to carry out the ministry God gave you.”  Recently I’ve been struggling with having to write weekly devotional messages to post on the website I started a year ago.  For the first year, I was able use messages that I had written over many years and had stored them in my file cabinet.  But now I am writing new ones each week, and it was beginning to feel like a burden at times because there is a deadline.  I do know that it wouldn’t be the end of the world if I missed a week.  But I still believe it is God’s plan for now to write regularly.

I know for sure that the writing of devotional messages is God’s commission to me.  After months of separation from my husband and a planned divorce, God made it clear that this was not the path He had chosen for me.  It was a long process of receiving forgiveness from God and from my husband and restoring our marriage.  But God led me to the Scripture in Luke 22:31, Jesus’ words to Peter following Peter’s denial: “Satan has demanded permission to sift you like wheat.  But I have prayed for you, that your faith may not fail.  And when you have returned, strengthen your brothers.”  I knew the Lord was speaking these same words to me, assuring me that even my failure did not disqualify me from God’s plan for my life.  He would restore me to a right relationship with Himself and use me to teach others and encourage them in their walk with God.  Writing these devotional messages and teaching women’s Bible studies is part of what He had planned all along for my life.

Here are some Scriptures that have encouraged me to change my attitude and focus on the words of the Lord as I carry out the ministry He has given me.

Colossians 3:23 “Whatever you do [whatever your task may be] work from the soul [that is, put in your very best effort] as [something done] for the Lord and not for men” (AMP)

Galatians 6:9 Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up (NIV).

Matthew 11:28 Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest (NIV).

I’m reminded of the blessing it is to belong to a God who speaks to my heart.  I’m reminded that He knows me personally and that He has a plan for my life.  I’m reminded that He gives me all I need through His Holy Spirit in me to follow His plan daily.

PERSONAL REFLECTION

What is the ministry God has given you?  Maybe it is caring for an aging parent, or parenting young children.  Maybe you have a ministry position that feels overwhelming at times.  Perhaps it is working at a job that is not satisfying but you have no way out.  Or a relationship that is not what you thought it would be. 

I encourage you to ask the Lord to give you His strength, His wisdom and clear direction.  You can ask Him to change your heart as you choose to continue doing what He has given you to do through the resources He provides.

James 1:21

Many of my friends love to be outdoors preparing the soil in their garden for the seeds they will plant in the spring as soon as the temperature is just right.  As summer comes, they begin to see the plants producing the fresh fruits and vegetables they will enjoy and share with others.

I’m thinking now of this Scripture in James 1:21 which tells us to “receive the Word implanted.”  God has given us His Word, the Bible, so that we can get to know Him personally and have our lives changed to reflect what He has planted in us.  We will grow to be more like Jesus as we listen to Him and obey what He says.

From personal experience growing up in church, I realize it is possible to know a lot about God without really knowing Him and living in a personal relationship with Him.  I grew up in a family that never missed a week of church attendance.  Even when we were at the lake on vacation we had to drive into town and go to church on Sunday.  What a waste, I thought! I also attended youth group and even Wednesday night prayer meetings because that was expected.  I enjoyed being with my friends, but I don’t remember any emphasis on a personal relationship with God and loving Him with all my heart, which is what He wants for us.

There were lots of rules:  Don’t go to movies or dances, don’t wear skirts above the knees, don’t color our hair, don’t wear two-piece bathing suits…  One good thing we were encouraged to do was memorize lots of Scripture – but it was a game to me.  I was really good at the Bible quiz contests.  It didn’t truly penetrate my heart.

The condition of my heart was clearly revealed when I spent a summer away from home during my high school years living with another family.  Within a week I had colored my hair (the same color as my natural color, so no one else even knew what I had done).  I also purchased a two-piece bathing suit.  (It covered as much of my body as a one-piece, but I knew it was two pieces and I found rebellious delight in that!). If there had been an opportunity to go to dances and movies, I’m sure I would have done that too! I definitely was rebelling from all the church rules!

A speaker came to a Youth for Christ meeting to share his experience of how God changed his life after being in jail for some time.  I remember wishing that I had done something really bad like that so I could tell people how God had changed me.  I always thought of myself as a “good Christian girl” who would never do anything like that!  I didn’t understand that I was as much of a sinner in need of a Savior as that man who had been in jail. 

I’m so thankful for God’s patience with me as He began transforming my heart as an adult.  My husband and I had moved to a different state, and after several years of not attending church, I started going with a friend who had moved in next door.  God used that pastor who taught me how to study the Bible, to understand that God wants a personal relationship with me, not just “following all the man-made church rules.”  It was at that time that I invited Jesus to be my Lord and Savior and committed to follow Him. That began a process of getting to know the God of the Bible that will continue as long as I live here on earth.  The more I get to know Him through His Word, the more I love Him.  There have been times of turning away from God’s ways and choosing my own, but He has graciously forgiven me and drawn me back. 

God has given every believer the gift of the Holy Spirit to live in us and to do that transforming work in our lives. Fortunately, all the Scripture memorization of my youth was not wasted.  The Holy Spirit now brings those words of Scripture back to my mind and brings life and understanding, and the desire to listen and obey God’s Word through a love relationship with Him.  He gives me opportunities to share His Word with others.  I’m profoundly grateful for His love, patience, faithfulness, mercy and grace.

PERSONAL REFLECTION

What is the condition of your heart?  Have you made that personal commitment to receive Him as your Lord and Savior? Do you have a personal relationship with Him through faith in Jesus?

As you read God’s Word, ask Him to plant it into your heart by the Spirit.  The fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control.  Do you see the evidence of that fruit in your life?

It is possible to be doing the right things for the wrong reasons.  Even church attendance and daily Bible reading can become something that must be “checked off the list of things to do” for the day. You can ask God to penetrate your heart with His Word and His Spirit to transform your life.

Maybe you don’t even have the desire to know God.  You can ask Him to give you that desire and to lead you into a relationship with Him.

May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing.

Romans 15:13

One of my closest friends had to say goodbye to her husband as He went to be with Jesus a few days ago.  A short and unexpected illness took his life.  I’ve been thinking about the Scriptures that offer comfort, assurance, and living hope to family and friends who belong to the Lord. Here are some promises we can all cling to in this time of grief and loss. 

To be absent from the body is to be at home with the Lord (2 Corinthians 5:8)

The Lord sees us and knows what we are going through (Psalm 139:1-12).

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

He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds (Psalm 147:3).

He promises to never leave us or forsake us (Hebrews 13:5).

2 Thessalonians 2:16-17 tells us that Jesus Himself and God our Father, has loved us and given us eternal comfort and hope.  He is the source of our comfort and strength.

I’m reminded of the words of the song by Steven Curtis Chapman: “His strength is perfect when our strength is gone.  He’ll carry us when we can’t carry on… His strength in us begins where ours comes to an end.  He hears our humble cry and proves again His strength is perfect…”  (the complete lyrics are available online.) 

I recently completed a study of 1 Peter with the women in my weekly Bible study.  Chapter 1:3-9 is what my friend’s husband is now experiencing in person with the Lord.  All who belong to God through faith in Jesus can claim this promise and have hope and comfort even in our grief:

Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who according to His great mercy has caused us to be born again to a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, to obtain an inheritance which is imperishable and undefiled and will not fade away, reserved in heaven for you, who are protected by the power of God through faith for a salvation ready to be revealed in the last time.  In this you greatly rejoice, even though now for a little while, if necessary, you have been distressed by various trials, so that the proof of your faith, being more precious than gold which is perishable, even though tested by fire, may be found to result in praise and glory and honor at the revelation of Jesus Christ; and though you have not seen Him, you love Him, and though you do not see Him now, but believe in Him, you greatly rejoice with joy inexpressible and full of glory, obtaining as the outcome of your faith the salvation of your souls. (NASB)

Yes, as believers we grieve and are heartbroken at the loss of a loved one.  But We will not grieve like the rest who have no hope (1 Thessalonians 4:13).  We can trust our Father to carry us through each day, one day at a time, depending completely on His love, His presence and His strength.

I am reminded to be thankful each day for God’s presence in my life and the living hope I have, the promise of eternity with Him when life here is ended.  I’m reminded that life on earth is temporary and for those who belong to the Lord, our citizenship is in heaven, our eternal home. We will be with Him in heaven forever where there will be no more death, no more sin, no more tears or illness. Blessed be the name of the Lord!

PERSONAL REFLECTION

Are you experiencing difficult circumstances that cause you grief and loss?  I encourage you to read these verses often and ask God to speak comfort and hope to your heart.

Maybe you have a family member or friend who needs to hear these words.  You can pray and ask God for an opportunity to share these promises to encourage them.

Perhaps you’d consider writing a prayer of thanks for the comfort and hope you have in the Lord.

But now, Lord, You are our Father; We are the clay, and You our potter, and all of us are the work of your hand.

Isaiah 64:8

The DVD called The Potter is amazing!  I just watched it again this week with the ladies in my weekly Bible studies, and each time I see it, I’m so encouraged and blessed!  A professional potter narrates while he is forming a vase beginning with a lump of clay all the way to completion.  He explains the analogies between the way a potter creates beautiful and useful pottery and the way God works with His people to transform us throughout our lives to become more like Jesus.  Here are some of the main points he makes that are so important to remember as we go through life with God.

The potter started with a lump of clay, and he pounds it and kneads it, checking to see if it is the quality necessary for the item he has in mind.  His first analogy is that the clay must be centered on the potter’s wheel.  He reminds us of the importance for us to be centered on God, still and yielded to the work of His hands.

In the example of creating a large vase, the potter created an opening in the clay.  His hand carefully reached into the clay, clear to the bottom.  That represents how we must be indwelt by the Holy Spirit internally. 

To make a taller vase requires a step called “pulling.”  It happens through pressure from both of the potter’s hands, one inside and one on the outside.  The narrator spoke of the stretching that occurs from pressure in our life which could easily destroy us if we did not have the inward strength of the Holy Spirit to counteract that external pressure.  That requires us to surrender to God’s plan for our life, trusting that He knows best.

At times, we experience “revival”, a time when we are aware of God’s hands creating new life.  At other times we may feel spiritually dry, as if the Potter has forgotten us.  But we can be assured that His eye is on us at all times.  At a certain point, the potter will trim away excess clay, making the object thinner so it won’t be so heavy.  God knows when to trim away excess in our lives that keep us from being fully devoted to Him.

When the vessel is complete, the potter carves his name on the bottom to show he is the one who made it.  Scripture tells us that our names are written on the palms of God’s hands (Isaiah 49:16a).  He has made us, and we are His!

We go through seasons of life — sometimes visible growth, at times feeling dormant.  But God is waiting for the perfect moment to continue the process of transforming us.  Another vital step in the potter’s process is placing the vessel in a kiln heated at extremely high temperature.  In the DVD, the potter describes how the vessels might feel as they’re placed in the kiln.  “It feels dangerous…It feels like the potter has left us…”  But the vessels can’t know how beautiful, strong and useful they will become.  The clay molecules fuse, become glass-like, no longer porous.  The vessels are transformed by the intense heat.  And all the while, the potter is right there, keeping a close watch on the temperature, knowing exactly how long the process will take.  And the same is true with the Lord, our Potter.  He is faithful, will not abandon us.  He takes what is weak and breakable, and makes us strong and beautiful through the fiery trials of our lives.

Our Potter knows the plans for us, and He has given each of His children gifts of the Spirit that will be used to accomplish those plans.  This message is such a powerful reminder to me to trust the Lord, my Potter, with every day of my life.  Through every circumstance, He is sovereignly in control, He loves us, and promises never to leave us, and He is good!  Romans 8:28 promises that “God causes all things to work together for good to those who love God, to those who are called according to His purpose.” 

PERSONAL REFLECTION

Are there circumstances in your life right now that make you think the Potter has forgotten you or raised the temperature higher than you can bear?  How does this message encourage you?

What stage of the transformation process are you experiencing now?  Are you newly in the process of being formed? Is your life centered on God?  Are you aware that His hands are shaping you? Are you feeling “pulled and stretched?”  Maybe you’re in a period of intense trial which seems like a fiery, fearful experience. 

Will you trust the Potter to know exactly what’s happening at every moment and is working out His plan for your life?  Write a prayer of response to Him.

John 21:17

“Living in God’s Extravagant Grace; Encouragement from God’s Word.” That’s the title of my book of devotional messages that I have compiled and is now available for purchase on Amazon.com. 

Today, I was re-reading the introduction and decided to share it with all of you.  It is my story of God’s power to restore a broken marriage and transform my life when it all seemed absolutely impossible.  And without God, it would be impossible!  I’m thinking about how we all have a story about how God is working in our life through so many different circumstances to bring us to a deeper knowledge and love relationship with Him.  And then He can use us to encourage others in their life journey.  He can use us to “feed His sheep.”

So here is the introduction to my book:

The divorce papers were on the table waiting to be signed.  Even after many years of knowing Jesus, I became involved in an affair that nearly destroyed my marriage.  It would take another book to tell how the Lord and my husband graciously forgave me.  Through a long process of counseling, our marriage was restored. My life with the Lord has changed forever as I truly began to understand His love, His grace, and His power to accomplish healing which had seemed impossible to me.

I identify with the apostle, Peter, who had been chosen by Jesus, walked closely with Him for three years, and then denied Him. Jesus predicted ahead of time that Peter would deny Him.  Jesus also knew that I would deny him.  But after returning home and beginning the long journey of healing our marriage, the Lord led me to Jesus’ words to Peter in Luke 22:32: “I have prayed for you, that your faith will not fail; and you, when you have turned back, strengthen your brothers.” Peter’s story didn’t end with failure.  Instead, Jesus personally met him, forgave him, and gave him an opportunity to declare his love and devotion to Him.  Jesus restored Peter and gave him a commission to “Feed My sheep” (John 21:17). 

I knew the Lord was speaking those same words to my heart, and I knew I was forgiven, just as Peter was.  I understood the same commission to be used by God to strengthen the faith of others.  Through the years, He has given me opportunities to “strengthen my sisters” through leading and writing weekly Bible studies, writing and posting devotional messages on my website, and encouraging women in their walk with the Lord.

My prayer is that these messages from God’s Word will touch your heart and encourage you to know, love, and follow Jesus wholeheartedly, and then to ask God for ways that you can encourage others – to “feed His sheep” by leading them to Jesus.

PERSONAL REFLECTION

God doesn’t waste any of the pain, suffering, even failures we have gone through! Think about difficult and painful circumstances you have experienced in your life.  How has God brought you through them? 

He can use us to “feed His sheep” with encouragement, comfort and hope.  Have you had opportunities to encourage others with what you learned from God? 

Maybe you are going through a situation right now that seems impossible. I’m including some verses of encouragement from God’s Word.  Pray and ask Him to speak to your heart and give you clear guidance, hope, and peace as you trust Him completely.  You can also consider sharing these verses with someone who needs to be encouraged.

Verses of Encouragement

Ephesians 2:10 We are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works which God prepared beforehand, so that we should walk in them.

Jeremiah 29:11 For I know the plans that I have for you,” declares the LORD, “plans for welfare and not for calamity to give you a future and a hope.

Proverbs 3:5-6 Trust in the Lord with all your heart and do not lean on your own understanding.  In all your ways acknowledge Him and He will direct your paths.

John 10:4 When He puts forth all His own, He goes ahead of them, and the sheep follow Him because they know His voice.

John 10:14 I am the good shepherd, and I know My own and My own know Me.

Isaiah 43:19 Behold, I will do something new, now it will spring forth…I will even make a roadway in the wilderness.

Psalm 46:10 Be still and know that I am God…

Psalm 37:7 Rest in the Lord and wait patiently for Him…

Psalm 32:8 I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go.  I will counsel you with My eye upon you.

John 15:5 I am the vine, you are the branches; he who abides in Me and I in him, he bears much fruit, for apart from Me you can do nothing.

2 Chronicles 16:9 The eyes of the Lord move to and fro throughout the earth that He may strongly support those whose heart is completely His (NASB)… whose hearts are fully committed to Him (NIV)

Quote from “Jesus Calling” January 25^th – Through intimacy of our relationship, you are being transformed from the inside out.  As you keep your focus on Me, I form you into the one I desire you to be.  Your part is to yield to My creative work – neither resisting it nor trying to speed it up.  Enjoy the tempo of a God-breathed life by letting Me set the pace.  Hold My hand in childlike trust and the way before you will open up step by step.

Quote from “Jesus Calling” from October 27^th – “As you become increasingly aware of My Presence, you find it easier to discern the way you should go.  This is one of the practical benefits of living close to Me.  Instead of wondering about what is on the road ahead or worrying about what you should do if…or when…, you can concentrate on staying in communication with Me.  When you actually arrive at a choice-point, I will show you which direction to go…

How much more will the heavenly Father give the Holy Spirit

to those who ask Him.

Luke 11:13

I posted this message previously, but I want to include it again following the previous weeks’ posts about the Holy Spirit. I need to remind myself of this truth often!

We know from God’s Word that every believer has received the Holy Spirit to live in us at the moment we were saved.  Why should we have to ask for more of the Holy Spirit?  Do we only get a little of the Spirit at a time?  No, I believe that “how much more” means that there is more of God that He wants us to be aware of and experience — His love, His constant presence, His wisdom, His direction, His promises. He wants us to know what He has done for us, the hope we have even in the midst of the most difficult and troubling circumstances, and the promise of eternal life with Him.

A few years ago, our pastor chose “Desperate Dependence” as the theme of the year for our church.  It has been life-changing for me to learn to live that way. The more we get to know God through studying His Word, we will become more aware of His love for us, the plan He has for our life, His desire for us to become more like Jesus. The more we surrender our lives to follow Him, the more we will recognize our need to depend on Him for everything we need.  That’s why He invites us to ask Him for more of His Holy Spirit.

As I write this, we have just recently celebrated the Christmas season.  I think of how much delight I received in finding the perfect gift for my daughter, something she had seen in a store and wasn’t able to buy it for herself.  When she opened it, we were equally delighted! Now I think of God who knows us better than we know ourselves.  He knows the abundant life He wants us to enjoy the more we surrender our lives to Him.  Through the Holy Spirit living in us, we receive His gifts, the fruit of the Spirit – love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control (Galatians 5:22). We will grow more deeply in love with the Lord, and grow in our love for others and willingness to serve them with the gifts He has given us.

We can ask the Father for more of the Holy Spirit and be assured that is a prayer He is delighted to answer! I’m encouraged to ask Him daily!

Paul’s prayer in Ephesians 3:16-19 encourages us with these words:

That He would grant you, according to the riches of His glory, to be strengthened with power through His Spirit in the inner man, so that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith; and that you, being rooted and grounded in love, may be able to comprehend with all the saints what is the breadth and length and height and depth, and to know the love of Christ which surpasses knowledge, that you may be filled up to all the fullness of God (my emphasis added).

PERSONAL REFLECTION

Do you recognize your need for more awareness of the Holy Spirit’s presence in your life? You can ask Him, and then begin intentionally depending on Him each day to supply what you need to accomplish His plan.

Are you experiencing the abundant life God offers?  John 10:10 tells us “I came that they may have life, and have it abundantly.”

How will you respond to God’s offer of more of the Holy Spirit in your life?