I can't believe it has been just shy of six months since my last post. It doesn't feel like it has been that long, but so much happened since July 30th that the time really did get away from me. Let's see......what has kept me from blogging? Well, my granny died on August 1st and then I got a job the first week of September, and I have been on the go non-stop since then. Teaching is an interesting profession. I really don't think anyone understands it unless they have been in a classroom. I know you see the posts and comments people make about teachers working short hours and having the summers off, but that couldn't be further from the truth. If a person is going to teach, and teach properly, it requires time and effort that includes staying at school until 5pm some days, going in around 6:30am on some mornings, and devoting entire weekends sometimes to lesson planning and grading papers. School isn't like it was in the 1980's. Teachers are much more concerned with student success and go to great lengths to try to make sure every student is given the opportunity to be successful. This means after testing comes re-tests, or re-teaching, or making up new quizzes for those that need to make up or retake parts, all trying to ensure test integrity. We give students multiple opportunities to achieve, but there are a few that really don't care, parents' don't care, and no amount of e-mails or phone calls or conferences is going to change perspectives. But teachers try. I try. I am grateful to have the position that I do in a wonderful school district. The demands of my job left me no choice but to suspend my Zumba classes and cut back on other activities I had participated in prior to September. I miss those things, but I also know my limits and understand it is OK to say "no" to things in order to carve out time for my family when I am not working. Anyway, this post wasn't intended to be about what I have been doing, or not doing, but I felt I should justify why I haven't been blogging and then explain that you may not see another one for a while. I have been wanting to post here since we got out of school for Christmas, but nothing just came to mind. I had a few things happen prior to break that I thought I should mention, but when I didn't find the time to talk about it while the experiences were still fresh in my mind, it seems pointless now. I actually sat down to blog at around 7am this morning when the house was quiet, but I literally stared at the screen and nothing came to my mind. But something did come to mind as I put conditioner on my hair this morning........
I use the Suave brand of shampoo and conditioner for color-treated hair. I bought the Moroccan oil type last time my hair was colored. I thought the aroma was a bit "odd", but I kept using it, got used to the smell, and here we are another color job later. I recently ran out of conditioner, but remembered I had taken a bottle of the same brand from my grandmothers house after she passed. I thought that was interesting she had conditioner for color-treated hair, yet she never colored her hair a day in her life. I also found it interesting that it was the same brand and style. This morning I had the opportunity to use it. As I applied it, I about fell over from the smell. It didn't smell like the Moroccan scent at all. I took the bottle and compared it to the shampoo and the only thing different was instead of "Moroccan" it said "Keratin". That was the smell. As I fingered the potion through my hair and the scent became heavy in the air, it reminded me of my grandmother. It was a scent, though not as strong, that I recall hanging in the air at her house sometimes after mother had given her showers. That made me think of Christmas and how not only me and my family, but countless others are without loved ones for the first time this season.
Joy to the World
The Lord has come
Let earth receive her King
Let every heart
Prepare Him room
and Heaven and nature sing
and Heaven and nature sing
and Heaven and Heaven and nature sing
How can those that have experienced loss be joyful at Christmas? I guess it starts with remembering the whole point of Christmas. When I think about gifts, pictures, meals, and all the things that go along with family gatherings, it makes me sad. That doesn't make sense when I give it further thought. That means that I am concentrating on the material experiences that wrap themselves around Christmas. My granny won't be here to see my kids open their gifts Christmas morning, yet why am I not everyday saying, "My granny won't be able to see them after school today."? What I am trying to get those that have suffered loss to understand, is if we focus on this time being a celebration of Jesus' birth ONLY, that takes some of the sting away from our loved ones not being here with us. This time of year is a celebration of Jesus' birth. Jesus is the one that allowed our loved ones to now be experiencing the everlasting joy that we have the Hope of experiencing one day as well. Knowing that my grandmother is in Heaven, not giving a thought or care to the world we know, makes me believe she is having the best Christmas ever! So, will there be tears shed on Christmas day? Of course! I am trying to hold them back now! But when I put my focus on Jesus and off of the materialistic, chaotic, dysfunctional shamble of what this season has become, I actually have the peace that is supposed to envelop us all. Are you struggling with peace? Let's pray:
Dear Father, this time of year is extremely hard for so many people, especially those that lost loved ones this year, this week, and today. I pray that you would cover them in a blanket of peace. Take their eyes off of the malls, the presents, the food to be cooked, and have them realize that none of that stuff matters in the long run. You understand the hurt that everyone experiences this time of the year and you know there will be weeping, just as you wept. There is no shame in crying, but shame comes when we replace You with our hurt, sorrow, and fear and allow the enemy to steal our joy at the most blessed time of the year. Fill our hearts with rejoicing that You came to make a way for us to spend eternity with You and that this world is not the end. We have Your Promise that will be reunited with those we have loved and lost when You are ready for us. Until our time comes to rest in Your arms, give us the strength to continue each day and encourage us to spread your love to those that are lost. In Your name we pray, Amen.
I hope you all have a very Merry CHRIST-mas and a Happy New Year.
Thursday, December 24, 2015
Thursday, July 30, 2015
Where Is Death:s Sting?
O Death, where is your sting? O Hades, where is your victory? 1 Corinthians 15:55
Over the centuries, death has been our relentless and unyielding enemy. No one, regardless of worldly rank, strength, or wealth has been able to escape death. As soon as we are born, death becomes our destiny. Many have tried, but no one has developed an antidote for death.
The reality of the resurrection is that death has been defeated! It is no longer the impregnable enemy, for Christ marched through the gates of Hades and claimed decisive victory over death. He conquered death completely; now He assures His followers that we, too, will share in His victory. Christians need not fear death. Christ has gone before us and will take us to join Him in heaven. Death frees us to experience the glorious, heavenly presence of God. No illness can defeat us. No disaster can rob us of eternal life. Death can temporarily remove us from those we love, but it transfers us into the presence of the One who loves us most. God's glory is His presence. Death, our greatest enemy, is nothing more than the vehicle that enables believers to experience God's glory!
Do not allow a fear of death to prevent you from experiencing a full and abundant life. Death cannot rob you of the eternal life that is your inheritance as a child of God. Jesus has prepared a place for you in heaven that surpasses your imagination (John 14:1-4). Death will one day be the door by which you gain access to all that is yours in heaven.
This is a devotion found in Experiencing God Day by Day by Henry T. Blackaby and Richard Blackaby. I can't say that death is something I fear. I fear the way I will stumble upon death more than anything. I don't want to be buried alive or eaten by zombies. I want it to be quick and painless. Death isn't something that I should spend any amount of time worrying over. We were born to die and God has already decided when that time will be. It isn't for me to know or concern myself over. If we knew when we would die, that would dramatically change the way we lived our lives. God wants us to live for him, not for ourselves. And that is what we would do. It is the not knowing as a Christian that gives us the freedom to live for Christ, knowing that each day we have on this earth is an opportunity to show others His love and lead them to an understanding of His saving grace and mercy. The devil is the one that wants you to worry about death because he wants to instill fear in you that will keep you from living and have you looking around every corner to see if this would be the day you bite the dust. The devil also wants you to harbor regrets and allows those around you to say things that will strike a nerve and make you second guess your interactions with others. All you have to do is live each day with a positive attitude and take steps to ensure that you are being a kind person and accomplish the things that you need to on a daily basis with God as your guide. If you feel you have done something wrong, like snap at your children or get upset with the AT&T lady on the phone, ask God for forgiveness. Life on earth is tough, and we are going to experience emotions that cause us to loose control every now and then. God understands that and shows us His grace during those times. We are not going to live perfect lives ( only Jesus did that) and treat everyone with love 100% of the time. Don't worry that you didn't kiss your husband good bye before he left for work. Don't beat yourself up if you had an argument with a friend after work. Don't read into signs or wonder if the conversation you just had with someone will be the last. Live your life, love God, and rejoice in the passing of a fellow Christian. We will be sad because we will no longer see that person on earth, but have peace fill your heart because that person is in heaven with Jesus and one day you will be up there with them. Our time on earth is short when you compare it to eternity. It might feel like 45minutes on the phone with AT&T was an eternity, but in heaven the there will be no approximate hold times to talk face to face with Jesus.
Over the centuries, death has been our relentless and unyielding enemy. No one, regardless of worldly rank, strength, or wealth has been able to escape death. As soon as we are born, death becomes our destiny. Many have tried, but no one has developed an antidote for death.
The reality of the resurrection is that death has been defeated! It is no longer the impregnable enemy, for Christ marched through the gates of Hades and claimed decisive victory over death. He conquered death completely; now He assures His followers that we, too, will share in His victory. Christians need not fear death. Christ has gone before us and will take us to join Him in heaven. Death frees us to experience the glorious, heavenly presence of God. No illness can defeat us. No disaster can rob us of eternal life. Death can temporarily remove us from those we love, but it transfers us into the presence of the One who loves us most. God's glory is His presence. Death, our greatest enemy, is nothing more than the vehicle that enables believers to experience God's glory!
Do not allow a fear of death to prevent you from experiencing a full and abundant life. Death cannot rob you of the eternal life that is your inheritance as a child of God. Jesus has prepared a place for you in heaven that surpasses your imagination (John 14:1-4). Death will one day be the door by which you gain access to all that is yours in heaven.
This is a devotion found in Experiencing God Day by Day by Henry T. Blackaby and Richard Blackaby. I can't say that death is something I fear. I fear the way I will stumble upon death more than anything. I don't want to be buried alive or eaten by zombies. I want it to be quick and painless. Death isn't something that I should spend any amount of time worrying over. We were born to die and God has already decided when that time will be. It isn't for me to know or concern myself over. If we knew when we would die, that would dramatically change the way we lived our lives. God wants us to live for him, not for ourselves. And that is what we would do. It is the not knowing as a Christian that gives us the freedom to live for Christ, knowing that each day we have on this earth is an opportunity to show others His love and lead them to an understanding of His saving grace and mercy. The devil is the one that wants you to worry about death because he wants to instill fear in you that will keep you from living and have you looking around every corner to see if this would be the day you bite the dust. The devil also wants you to harbor regrets and allows those around you to say things that will strike a nerve and make you second guess your interactions with others. All you have to do is live each day with a positive attitude and take steps to ensure that you are being a kind person and accomplish the things that you need to on a daily basis with God as your guide. If you feel you have done something wrong, like snap at your children or get upset with the AT&T lady on the phone, ask God for forgiveness. Life on earth is tough, and we are going to experience emotions that cause us to loose control every now and then. God understands that and shows us His grace during those times. We are not going to live perfect lives ( only Jesus did that) and treat everyone with love 100% of the time. Don't worry that you didn't kiss your husband good bye before he left for work. Don't beat yourself up if you had an argument with a friend after work. Don't read into signs or wonder if the conversation you just had with someone will be the last. Live your life, love God, and rejoice in the passing of a fellow Christian. We will be sad because we will no longer see that person on earth, but have peace fill your heart because that person is in heaven with Jesus and one day you will be up there with them. Our time on earth is short when you compare it to eternity. It might feel like 45minutes on the phone with AT&T was an eternity, but in heaven the there will be no approximate hold times to talk face to face with Jesus.
Wednesday, July 29, 2015
Ebracing the Geek
It is really hard to know that some people don't like me. It would drive me crazy when I was in middle school or high school. I would rack my brain trying to figure out what I could do or say to get someone to like me. Inevitably, whatever I tried would backfire on me and I would end up just as friendless as I was before. Sure, I had friends, but I wanted more. I wanted to be part of the "cool kids". I had a real good friend when I started 9th grade. We would have been friends forever, but then I realized she wasn't "cool". I had no idea until I heard people talking about her. I didn't want to be associated with a "nerd" or a "geek". That left me associated with no one. 30 years has made my memories of high school blurry. I even met a lady recently that said she went to high school with me and I have no recollection whatsoever of this woman. She seems very nice and remembered me. When people remember me, it makes me wonder what exactly do they remember? Do they remember I was a geek? Do they remember the fight I got in and the black eye I got to fashion around school a couple of days? Do they remember me trying to sing in the talent show where I know everyone was laughing at me? Were they jealous because I was modeling? Did they think I was a snob? I know one thing they don't remember about me. I never told anyone I went to school with about Jesus. That would have made me a total dweeb. I thought sharing my faith was difficult as a teenager. Even into my twenties I kept silent about God. Was I ashamed of God or did I just hope by not mentioning Him that people would have one less reason not like me? Just as difficult as it was back in the 1980's and 1990's to share my faith, it can be difficult today too, but the difference today is that I no longer care what people think. The reason I no longer care is because I decided to start reading the Bible when I was 33 years old and began to study it, listen in church, listen to contemporary Christian music, join Bible studies, teach Sunday School, and seek to know God better and try to discover His will for my life. When I did that, I stopped caring about what other people thought. I discovered my worth is found in God alone.
James 4:10 The Message (MSG)
7-10 So let God work his will in you. Yell a loud no to the Devil and watch him scamper. Say a quiet yes to God and he’ll be there in no time. Quit dabbling in sin. Purify your inner life. Quit playing the field. Hit bottom, and cry your eyes out. The fun and games are over. Get serious, really serious. Get down on your knees before the Master; it’s the only way you’ll get on your feet.
James 4:10New International Version (NIV)
Humbling ourselves means recognizing that our worth comes from God alone. It is working with His power according to his guidance, not with our own independent effort. Although we do not deserve God's favor, He reaches out to us in love and gives us worth and dignity, despite our human shortcomings.
It still isn't easy when people say hateful things to me on social media or tell me I am wrong or ask me to justify my answers. But I get over it very quickly and I respond to them in love. I believe people on social media aren't afraid to post their thoughts and feelings because there is no face to face confrontation being made and you can just say what you feel without someone being able to have an actual conversation about the issue. Anonymity is your friend when you post things on news media sites that have thousands of readers. People there will say the most blunt things because they do not personally know anyone they are responding to. I was reading a lot of comments on a news channel's Facebook page about Papa John. This media outlet has done a story on his rise to success. The comments left on that article were some of the meanest I have ever seen. People were ripping him to shreds and I know that the majority of those folks have never met John. If John reads all those comments, he is bound to feel a little down, but he is laughing all the way to the bank. I can't say folks have made the same nasty comments to me on Facebook because we actually know each other in real life, so on the off chance we pass each other one day, I am sure these people are trying to tone down their feelings just a bit. I have had to direct some of my Facebook friends to this blog to explain my positions on certain issues. One reason I created this blog was so that I could line out my stance on topics and use scripture to back up my responses, so when someone does question me, it becomes simpler to refer them to my blog instead of me having to restate my stance. A few of those people have read my blog and still come back at me questioning what I said. I try to be more specific in my explanations when I can, but then it comes down to this point: I cannot convince anyone and nor is it my job to convince anyone.
2 Timothy 2:22-26 The Message (MSG)
22-26 Run away from infantile indulgence. Run after mature righteousness—faith, love, peace—joining those who are in honest and serious prayer before God. Refuse to get involved in inane discussions; they always end up in fights. God’s servant must not be argumentative, but a gentle listener and a teacher who keeps cool, working firmly but patiently with those who refuse to obey. You never know how or when God might sober them up with a change of heart and a turning to the truth, enabling them to escape the Devil’s trap, where they are caught and held captive, forced to run his errands.
Timothy was a teacher who received advice from Paul when teaching God's truths. He was told to be kind and gentle, patient and courteous when explaining the truth. Good teaching never promotes quarrels or foolish arguments. Listen to people's questions and treat them respectfully, while avoiding getting embroiled in foolish debates. If you do this, they will be more willing to hear what you have to say and perhaps turn from their error.
That is exactly what I have been trying to do. I want to share God's Word as plainly as I can, without being hateful and sounding like a condemning person. I am not doing the judging-God is doing the judging. Again, it is not my job to convince others, it is God's job to convict them. I know from one conversation I had with a dear homosexual friend, that our interaction was conducted in love and although we agree to disagree, he understood what I was trying to accomplish and wished me well with my blog. It seems that some people can't understand how you can be respectful to someone that you don't agree with. Some people tend to feel if you do not align with them on an issue, you cannot be friends. That is absurd! I had one lady ask me, "How can you be friends with gay people when you disagree with gay marriage?" The answer is simple. God calls us to love everyone. The focus of ALL of God's laws is love.
Matthew 22:37-40 New International Version (NIV)
37 Jesus replied: “‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.38 This is the first and greatest commandment. 39 And the second is like it: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.40 All the Law and the Prophets hang on these two commandments.”
God commands us to love others. If I didn't love everyone, I would not be following God's Word. Just because I love someone, doesn't mean I have to agree with them. I will love my homosexual friend, but I won't attend his wedding. And he understands why. Go back to the last part of scripture from 2 Timothy. I will quote it in the NIV version since I quoted the Message paraphrase earlier. Verses 25 and 26 say, "Opponents must be gently instructed, in the hope that God will grant them repentance leading them to a knowledge of the truth, and that they will come to their senses and escape from the trap of the devil, who has taken them captive to do his will." When we speak to our neighbors those, those words will not leave their minds. I can remember conversations I have had with people and you have heard it said, "thoughts lingered in the mind......" People can't just get what they have heard or seen out of their mind. There is no delete button on our brain. The conversation I had with my gay friend will stay with him a while. He has the opportunity to "come to his senses" and leave the lifestyle he has chosen and escape the devil's clutches.
Did I just make it sound like being gay is a choice? This is that moment when you get beat up on Facebook again. I actually reached out to two individuals in the last month based on comments they had posted. I encouraged each one to get together with me, one on one, and discuss the issue at length. I welcomed it and I was looking forward to it. Typing back and forth, like in texting, just doesn't allow for your words to properly explain the message you are trying to get across. I know you have been in the same boat with me when you misinterpret someone's text as having emotions not meant to be felt. That is why I felt a face to face meeting would be a great way for me to explain my side and listen to their side and, as with my other friend, agree to disagree. The first person just replied something along the lines like " we are good, no need" and the other has yet to call me. What does that say? To me, when it comes down to it, they only care about what they believe and aren't interested in hearing anything to the contrary. All I can say is that I tried and will always be willing to talk to anyone face to face about any issues.
I guess you want me to answer the question. Here is the problem: My answer would only be an opinion. I would have to base my answer on my understanding of the scriptures. My understanding may vary just a little bit from your understanding. My answer may make you mad. My answer may leave you with more questions. I think asking, "Is someone born gay?" is similar to me asking, "Why did God allow my son to have autism?" I can guarantee a lot of people wouldn't like my answer. I only know one person with the definitive answer, and that is Jesus. My purpose is not to argue with someone whether or not their child was born gay. To me, that is one of those insane discussions that can end up in an argument that Timothy warned about. What we should be discussing is what is in God's Word. Let's talk about what we know to be true.
2 Timothy 3:1-5 The Message (MSG)
Romans 6:23New International Version (NIV)
23 For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.
Romans 5:8New International Version (NIV)
8 But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.
Romans 10:9-10New International Version (NIV)
9 If you declare with your mouth, “Jesus is Lord,” and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved. 10 For it is with your heart that you believe and are justified, and it is with your mouth that you profess your faith and are saved.
Romans 10:13New International Version (NIV)
13 for, “Everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved.”
I often wonder if I was able to go back in time, would I have lived my high school years differently? I know I would hate to be in high school in this day and age. Oh, how I miss the 1980's! I have never been a person that wants a "do over". I like where I am in life now and wouldn't want to change anything because the experiences I have had and the life lessons I have learned have allowed me to be the person I am today. I don't care if you think I am a nerd or not. Nerds are totally tubular!
James 4:10 The Message (MSG)
7-10 So let God work his will in you. Yell a loud no to the Devil and watch him scamper. Say a quiet yes to God and he’ll be there in no time. Quit dabbling in sin. Purify your inner life. Quit playing the field. Hit bottom, and cry your eyes out. The fun and games are over. Get serious, really serious. Get down on your knees before the Master; it’s the only way you’ll get on your feet.
James 4:10New International Version (NIV)
10 Humble yourselves before the Lord, and he will lift you up.
Humbling ourselves means recognizing that our worth comes from God alone. It is working with His power according to his guidance, not with our own independent effort. Although we do not deserve God's favor, He reaches out to us in love and gives us worth and dignity, despite our human shortcomings.
It still isn't easy when people say hateful things to me on social media or tell me I am wrong or ask me to justify my answers. But I get over it very quickly and I respond to them in love. I believe people on social media aren't afraid to post their thoughts and feelings because there is no face to face confrontation being made and you can just say what you feel without someone being able to have an actual conversation about the issue. Anonymity is your friend when you post things on news media sites that have thousands of readers. People there will say the most blunt things because they do not personally know anyone they are responding to. I was reading a lot of comments on a news channel's Facebook page about Papa John. This media outlet has done a story on his rise to success. The comments left on that article were some of the meanest I have ever seen. People were ripping him to shreds and I know that the majority of those folks have never met John. If John reads all those comments, he is bound to feel a little down, but he is laughing all the way to the bank. I can't say folks have made the same nasty comments to me on Facebook because we actually know each other in real life, so on the off chance we pass each other one day, I am sure these people are trying to tone down their feelings just a bit. I have had to direct some of my Facebook friends to this blog to explain my positions on certain issues. One reason I created this blog was so that I could line out my stance on topics and use scripture to back up my responses, so when someone does question me, it becomes simpler to refer them to my blog instead of me having to restate my stance. A few of those people have read my blog and still come back at me questioning what I said. I try to be more specific in my explanations when I can, but then it comes down to this point: I cannot convince anyone and nor is it my job to convince anyone.
2 Timothy 2:22-26 The Message (MSG)
22-26 Run away from infantile indulgence. Run after mature righteousness—faith, love, peace—joining those who are in honest and serious prayer before God. Refuse to get involved in inane discussions; they always end up in fights. God’s servant must not be argumentative, but a gentle listener and a teacher who keeps cool, working firmly but patiently with those who refuse to obey. You never know how or when God might sober them up with a change of heart and a turning to the truth, enabling them to escape the Devil’s trap, where they are caught and held captive, forced to run his errands.
Timothy was a teacher who received advice from Paul when teaching God's truths. He was told to be kind and gentle, patient and courteous when explaining the truth. Good teaching never promotes quarrels or foolish arguments. Listen to people's questions and treat them respectfully, while avoiding getting embroiled in foolish debates. If you do this, they will be more willing to hear what you have to say and perhaps turn from their error.
That is exactly what I have been trying to do. I want to share God's Word as plainly as I can, without being hateful and sounding like a condemning person. I am not doing the judging-God is doing the judging. Again, it is not my job to convince others, it is God's job to convict them. I know from one conversation I had with a dear homosexual friend, that our interaction was conducted in love and although we agree to disagree, he understood what I was trying to accomplish and wished me well with my blog. It seems that some people can't understand how you can be respectful to someone that you don't agree with. Some people tend to feel if you do not align with them on an issue, you cannot be friends. That is absurd! I had one lady ask me, "How can you be friends with gay people when you disagree with gay marriage?" The answer is simple. God calls us to love everyone. The focus of ALL of God's laws is love.
Matthew 22:37-40 New International Version (NIV)
37 Jesus replied: “‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.38 This is the first and greatest commandment. 39 And the second is like it: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.40 All the Law and the Prophets hang on these two commandments.”
God commands us to love others. If I didn't love everyone, I would not be following God's Word. Just because I love someone, doesn't mean I have to agree with them. I will love my homosexual friend, but I won't attend his wedding. And he understands why. Go back to the last part of scripture from 2 Timothy. I will quote it in the NIV version since I quoted the Message paraphrase earlier. Verses 25 and 26 say, "Opponents must be gently instructed, in the hope that God will grant them repentance leading them to a knowledge of the truth, and that they will come to their senses and escape from the trap of the devil, who has taken them captive to do his will." When we speak to our neighbors those, those words will not leave their minds. I can remember conversations I have had with people and you have heard it said, "thoughts lingered in the mind......" People can't just get what they have heard or seen out of their mind. There is no delete button on our brain. The conversation I had with my gay friend will stay with him a while. He has the opportunity to "come to his senses" and leave the lifestyle he has chosen and escape the devil's clutches.
Did I just make it sound like being gay is a choice? This is that moment when you get beat up on Facebook again. I actually reached out to two individuals in the last month based on comments they had posted. I encouraged each one to get together with me, one on one, and discuss the issue at length. I welcomed it and I was looking forward to it. Typing back and forth, like in texting, just doesn't allow for your words to properly explain the message you are trying to get across. I know you have been in the same boat with me when you misinterpret someone's text as having emotions not meant to be felt. That is why I felt a face to face meeting would be a great way for me to explain my side and listen to their side and, as with my other friend, agree to disagree. The first person just replied something along the lines like " we are good, no need" and the other has yet to call me. What does that say? To me, when it comes down to it, they only care about what they believe and aren't interested in hearing anything to the contrary. All I can say is that I tried and will always be willing to talk to anyone face to face about any issues.
I guess you want me to answer the question. Here is the problem: My answer would only be an opinion. I would have to base my answer on my understanding of the scriptures. My understanding may vary just a little bit from your understanding. My answer may make you mad. My answer may leave you with more questions. I think asking, "Is someone born gay?" is similar to me asking, "Why did God allow my son to have autism?" I can guarantee a lot of people wouldn't like my answer. I only know one person with the definitive answer, and that is Jesus. My purpose is not to argue with someone whether or not their child was born gay. To me, that is one of those insane discussions that can end up in an argument that Timothy warned about. What we should be discussing is what is in God's Word. Let's talk about what we know to be true.
2 Timothy 3:1-5 The Message (MSG)
Difficult Times Ahead
3 1-5 Don’t be naive. There are difficult times ahead. As the end approaches, people are going to be self-absorbed, money-hungry, self-promoting, stuck-up, profane, contemptuous of parents, crude, coarse, dog-eat-dog, unbending, slanderers, impulsively wild, savage, cynical, treacherous, ruthless, bloated windbags, addicted to lust, and allergic to God. They’ll make a show of religion, but behind the scenes they’re animals. Stay clear of these people.
The "last days" started after Jesus' resurrection. These difficult times are going to continue until Christ's return. Stop looking for signs and wondering when Jesus is coming back. Make the most of the time God has given you. Use this time to not only let your life be a reflection of Jesus, but as you have the chance, share Jesus with someone. Maybe you can take a walk together down the "Romans Road"?
Romans 3:23New International Version (NIV)
23 for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God,Romans 6:23New International Version (NIV)
23 For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.
Romans 5:8New International Version (NIV)
8 But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.
Romans 10:9-10New International Version (NIV)
9 If you declare with your mouth, “Jesus is Lord,” and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved. 10 For it is with your heart that you believe and are justified, and it is with your mouth that you profess your faith and are saved.
Romans 10:13New International Version (NIV)
13 for, “Everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved.”
I often wonder if I was able to go back in time, would I have lived my high school years differently? I know I would hate to be in high school in this day and age. Oh, how I miss the 1980's! I have never been a person that wants a "do over". I like where I am in life now and wouldn't want to change anything because the experiences I have had and the life lessons I have learned have allowed me to be the person I am today. I don't care if you think I am a nerd or not. Nerds are totally tubular!
Prayers Don't Pay The Bills!
This is a post from my dear, sweet, Christian sister that has a passion for the unborn. She puts the majority of her free time into trying to counsel women before they decide to end their pregnancy. Christians believe that life begins at conception; the scientific world believes the heart starts to beat at 21 days. I would say that the majority of women don't know at 3 weeks that they are pregnant, therefore whatever side of the coin you are on, abortion would end a life. This is one of the stories from my friend's many visits to witness at an abortion clinic. It is an example of how God works and speaks into our lives and encourages us to pray for others.
Sometimes someone says something that really sticks with you.
Last fall, while sidewalk counseling at the abortion clinic, some brothers were
talking to a young man who had brought his girlfriend to the clinic to kill
their unborn baby. They had brought another baby with them, the first baby
being the reason they had chosen to abort. I didn't hear the whole conversation
they were having with this young man but I did hear, loud and clear, "Man,
prayers don't pay the bills!" That young man has been on my heart today. I
pray that the Gospel soaked words my brothers shared with him have planted in
his heart and even now are growing. I pray he seeks Jesus and leads his
girlfriend and child to the Lord. And I pray he finds out that prayers do
indeed pay the bills.
So why is this young man and his little family on my heart,
you might ask? I'm not for sure. Maybe it's because I've been going through a particularly
rough season full of changes and heartache and struggles, and I've had my own
difficulties trusting Jesus to see me through this storm. Maybe it's because
over and over I've prayed to have enough to make it through the week or to make
it until Friday and He always provides exactly what we need. No, the money
never rains down from Heaven. Sometimes I get a last minute cake order or I
have some overtime at work. Sometimes I have to "borrow" from my
parents...and sometimes a loving friend will just gift me...sometimes even
anonymously. I never thought it possible, but I'm learning to rejoice in my
struggles. After all, if things were easier would I see how much I really
need Jesus? If I didn't have to cry out to Him so often how would I
remember how badly I need Him every hour of everyday? And if I wasn't broke as
a joke, how would I know that, yes, prayers do pay the bills?
“Therefore I tell you, do not be anxious about your life, what
you will eat or what you will drink, nor about your body, what you will put on.
Is not life more than food, and the body more than clothing? Look at the birds
of the air: they neither sow nor reap nor gather into barns, and yet your
heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not of more value than they? And which of
you by being anxious can add a single hour to his span of life? And why are you
anxious about clothing? Consider the lilies of the field, how they grow: they
neither toil nor spin, yet I tell you, even Solomon in all his glory was not
arrayed like one of these. But if God so clothes the grass of the field, which
today is alive and tomorrow is thrown into the oven, will he not much more
clothe you, O you of little faith? Therefore do not be anxious, saying, ‘What
shall we eat?’ or ‘What shall we drink?’ or ‘What shall we wear?’ For the
Gentiles seek after all these things, and your heavenly Father knows that you
need them all. But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all
these things will be added to you. “Therefore do not be anxious about tomorrow,
for tomorrow will be anxious for itself. Sufficient for the day is its own
trouble.”
Matthew 6:25-34
Sunday, July 26, 2015
God Is Able
I am ready to start a new Bible study. I haven't participated in a Bible study with "The God Squad" in a very long time. Our group is made up of women from different Christian denominations that continually seek God's will for their lives and the lives of their families. I have reached out to the group a few times expressing my interest in getting together again in September. (If any ladies reading this post are interested, shoot me a message on Facebook and I will invite you.) I would never want to push a study on ladies that isn't interesting to them. I prefer for the group to collaborate on the writer and specific message to be studied. I was looking a Priscilla Shirer yesterday and all the great studies she has out. I read a description of all of them and they all sounded so good, I don't know how we would choose. Then I went to one of my Bible study friend's house. She gave me the book that has a study to go with it called "God Is Able". It is by Priscilla Shirer, but I had never heard of it. I was interested in reading it and read the introduction last night. First she wanted us to tell her what "it" was. What brought me to the book? ( I had an answer.) What is the one thing in my life that I can't seem to solve or fix? ( I could think of one thing, maybe two.) Everyone has an "it" that needs to be addressed. Whatever "it" is, God is able to handle it. What led me to blog about this today, is a post I reread from my other blog about not wearing makeup during Lent in 2012. I was just looking through my posts on that blog, amazed it had been read over 3,000 times! I clicked on this post and it matched a student's "it" from three years ago when I was teaching at Christian Academy of Lawrenceburg:
I take prayer requests AFTER we do devotion every day in Bible class. Today, for some reason I did it BEFORE the devotion. I have a foreign exchange student that is in jeopardy of being sent back to her country. She wanted us to pray that she would be allowed to stay and find a new host family to stay with. She went into a little more detail and I was having so many feelings over the situation. As she continued talking I took a glance at the devotion I was going to read. The title was "WHATEVER IT IS, GOD IS BIGGER". I felt that was so appropriate for her situation. I have to tell you that our devotions are dated, so today I should have read the devotion for March 1st. When I realized I was on the wrong page, I didn't let that bother me. I felt that God had put this one in front of me instead. I started reading it and it was based on Matthew 9:22, which says, "Jesus turned around, and when he saw her he said, “Daughter, be encouraged! Your faith has made you well.” And the woman was healed at that moment." I thought that was so cool that it was speaking about a female, just like my student. I can summarize the devotion as a call to have faith and when you place your trust in Christ, you will be amazed at the marvelous things He can do with you and through you. Trust God's plans. With Him, all things are possible, and whatever "it" is, God is bigger. In this situation, "it" was the possibility of having to go back to a country she wasn't ready to go home to. It was time to pray for "it". BUT, it gets better! I looked up at my students and told them I didn't read March 1st devotion, that I read one from January 27th. The foreign exchange student looked at me with big eyes and said, "January 27 is my birthday." I HAD NO IDEA!!!!! HOW AWESOME THAT I READ A DEVOTION FOR HER THAT SPOKE TO HER SITUATION AND IT HAPPENED TO BE DATED THE DAY SHE WAS BORN!!!! I said in one of my first blogs that there are no coincidences. God was and spoke in my classroom today. I had cold chills and my students sat in stunned silence. God is awesome!
This girl had an "it" and God was able to handle "it". She stayed in school for the rest of the school year and this year has been able to return to America to visit. I haven't had a chance to see her, but know she is having a wonderful time and love the United States more than you can imagine.
I plan to read more of "God Is Able" today and finish the book by the end of the week. I am sure you have an "it" in your life now and I know that God is able to handle "it". Let me know if I can pray for your "it". I have a feeling this my be "it" for our September Bible study!
I take prayer requests AFTER we do devotion every day in Bible class. Today, for some reason I did it BEFORE the devotion. I have a foreign exchange student that is in jeopardy of being sent back to her country. She wanted us to pray that she would be allowed to stay and find a new host family to stay with. She went into a little more detail and I was having so many feelings over the situation. As she continued talking I took a glance at the devotion I was going to read. The title was "WHATEVER IT IS, GOD IS BIGGER". I felt that was so appropriate for her situation. I have to tell you that our devotions are dated, so today I should have read the devotion for March 1st. When I realized I was on the wrong page, I didn't let that bother me. I felt that God had put this one in front of me instead. I started reading it and it was based on Matthew 9:22, which says, "Jesus turned around, and when he saw her he said, “Daughter, be encouraged! Your faith has made you well.” And the woman was healed at that moment." I thought that was so cool that it was speaking about a female, just like my student. I can summarize the devotion as a call to have faith and when you place your trust in Christ, you will be amazed at the marvelous things He can do with you and through you. Trust God's plans. With Him, all things are possible, and whatever "it" is, God is bigger. In this situation, "it" was the possibility of having to go back to a country she wasn't ready to go home to. It was time to pray for "it". BUT, it gets better! I looked up at my students and told them I didn't read March 1st devotion, that I read one from January 27th. The foreign exchange student looked at me with big eyes and said, "January 27 is my birthday." I HAD NO IDEA!!!!! HOW AWESOME THAT I READ A DEVOTION FOR HER THAT SPOKE TO HER SITUATION AND IT HAPPENED TO BE DATED THE DAY SHE WAS BORN!!!! I said in one of my first blogs that there are no coincidences. God was and spoke in my classroom today. I had cold chills and my students sat in stunned silence. God is awesome!
This girl had an "it" and God was able to handle "it". She stayed in school for the rest of the school year and this year has been able to return to America to visit. I haven't had a chance to see her, but know she is having a wonderful time and love the United States more than you can imagine.
I plan to read more of "God Is Able" today and finish the book by the end of the week. I am sure you have an "it" in your life now and I know that God is able to handle "it". Let me know if I can pray for your "it". I have a feeling this my be "it" for our September Bible study!
Saturday, July 25, 2015
Put Some Clothes On!
One of the toughest parts about being a women is deciding what to wear everyday. I've gained a little weight this summer and I don't have many choices when it comes to covering the lower part of my body. I have one pair of jean capris and a pair of black silky capris that fit. I have two pair of shorts I am willing to be seen out in public in and a couple others I can wear around the house.
Wouldn't it be great if you had clothes to wear every day of the year that would fit no matter if you lost (yeah, right) or gained weight? Those clothes are actually available to you, you just have to make the conscious effort to put them on!
Colossians 3:12-14New International Version (NIV)
12 Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience. 13 Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you. 14 And over all these virtues put on love, which binds them all together in perfect unity.
Your shirt is Compassion:
If you are like me, the first thing I put on (besides my bra and underwear, duh) is my shirt. The first characteristic Paul mentions is compassion. That could have been fourth on his list, be he chose to mention it first. We need to imitate Christ's merciful attitude. We should have a feeling of deep sympathy for others when they are going through a tough time, whether it be they are experiencing a family loss, job loss, or conflicts in relationships. We need to feel a strong desire to alleviate the suffering of others. No one wears a shirt that is two sizes too big. When you put on a shirt, it should be felt on your arms and around your waist, just like a hug you would give someone that is in need of some compassion.
Your pants are Kindness:
Oh, how I want my pants to be kind to me. Like I mentioned earlier, it is a struggle to make them fit. But the type of pants we are talking about here will never make you unhappy. These "pants" give you the wanting and desire to do good to others. They will always fit and make you feel warm and fuzzy. And when your pants fit, you can't help but have a milder temperament. You feel that you can be a little more indulgent when people have a conversation with you. Be considerate of others and show them the peace that Christ has shown you.
Your shoes are Humility:
Some women may give a lot of thought to their shoes. It is apparent by all the commercials I see for footwear. My husband would say that I have a lot of shoes. We were asked that question one day during a church activity and I guessed I had about 10 pairs. I went home and counted them all and it turned out to be around 50! How in the world did I have that many pairs of shoes and only regularly wear about 5 of them? I guess shoes really do make a difference in the wardrobe a woman chooses. I do always want my outfit to match my shoes. I can't wear tennis shoes with a dress, and if a dress has the slightest amount of orange in it, I want the shoes to be orange to make that color pop. But on a daily basis, I find myself wearing the same pair of flip flops. I'll put on whatever pair of shoes will work to run to the store or through the backyard to my neighbor's house. Whatever "shoes" you chose, they should be done so in a modest fashion. We don't want to traipse around as if we were superior than others. Jesus never thought of himself better than anyone else. We should follow that example and think of others more than we do ourselves. Don't be proud or arrogant. Humility is a state of mind that is well pleasing to God and it will preserve your soul in tranquility and make you patient under trials.
Your socks are Patience:
Ever forget to put socks on before you put on your shoes? Have some patience. You were probably rushing around to get out the door to work. Take a deep breath and relax. You have heard it said, "Patience is a virtue". See how much easier your day goes when you make it through without complaining. Don't lose your temper. Don't get annoyed. Easier said than done? Not so if you are being intentional with your attitude. Let the peace of Christ reign in your heart. Look at a red light when you are in a hurry as God telling you to slow down. Quietly and steadily persevere through trials. The way you react to situations will have a far greater influence on others than anything you say.
Your scarf is Gentleness:
I love to wear scarfs as an accessory. I made a New Year's Resolution to wear more scarfs and have continued in my effort, even in the summer. (summer scarfs are available too) I prefer to wear infinity scarfs. I like the way they lightly drape around my neck. You have to have the right scarf to go with your shirt. If your "shirt" is going to be giving someone a hug that is in desperate need of encouragement, you need to be gentle when you do so. Take care when comforting someone and be pleasant and good natured. People can tell if you are being fake-so be real. Be friendly to all those you come in contact with and show your good nature. Compassion with gentleness shows the warmth of your heart.
Your belt is Love:
Love ties everything together. Love is going to hold compassion and kindness in place. Love won't let your patience or humility get covered up. (Those socks and shoes are important-you didn't spend all that time putting them on if you didn't want them to be seen.) Gentleness fits right in with your completed outfit because you matched it with the rest of your outfit. Let love guide your life. Imitate Christ's forgiveness to others. The key to forgiving others is remembering how much God has forgiven you. Is it difficult for you to forgive someone who has wronged you a little when God has forgiven you so much? Realizing God's infinite love and forgiveness can help you love and forgive others.
It's time to get dressed! Whether you are hanging out at home today, getting ready to go to a birthday party, or preparing for a long day at work-you need to put some clothes on! If you are wearing compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, patience, and love, no one will notice if you match or not, they will only notice Jesus.
Wait! You missed a button!
Wouldn't it be great if you had clothes to wear every day of the year that would fit no matter if you lost (yeah, right) or gained weight? Those clothes are actually available to you, you just have to make the conscious effort to put them on!
Colossians 3:12-14New International Version (NIV)
12 Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience. 13 Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you. 14 And over all these virtues put on love, which binds them all together in perfect unity.
Your shirt is Compassion:
If you are like me, the first thing I put on (besides my bra and underwear, duh) is my shirt. The first characteristic Paul mentions is compassion. That could have been fourth on his list, be he chose to mention it first. We need to imitate Christ's merciful attitude. We should have a feeling of deep sympathy for others when they are going through a tough time, whether it be they are experiencing a family loss, job loss, or conflicts in relationships. We need to feel a strong desire to alleviate the suffering of others. No one wears a shirt that is two sizes too big. When you put on a shirt, it should be felt on your arms and around your waist, just like a hug you would give someone that is in need of some compassion.
Your pants are Kindness:
Oh, how I want my pants to be kind to me. Like I mentioned earlier, it is a struggle to make them fit. But the type of pants we are talking about here will never make you unhappy. These "pants" give you the wanting and desire to do good to others. They will always fit and make you feel warm and fuzzy. And when your pants fit, you can't help but have a milder temperament. You feel that you can be a little more indulgent when people have a conversation with you. Be considerate of others and show them the peace that Christ has shown you.
Your shoes are Humility:
Some women may give a lot of thought to their shoes. It is apparent by all the commercials I see for footwear. My husband would say that I have a lot of shoes. We were asked that question one day during a church activity and I guessed I had about 10 pairs. I went home and counted them all and it turned out to be around 50! How in the world did I have that many pairs of shoes and only regularly wear about 5 of them? I guess shoes really do make a difference in the wardrobe a woman chooses. I do always want my outfit to match my shoes. I can't wear tennis shoes with a dress, and if a dress has the slightest amount of orange in it, I want the shoes to be orange to make that color pop. But on a daily basis, I find myself wearing the same pair of flip flops. I'll put on whatever pair of shoes will work to run to the store or through the backyard to my neighbor's house. Whatever "shoes" you chose, they should be done so in a modest fashion. We don't want to traipse around as if we were superior than others. Jesus never thought of himself better than anyone else. We should follow that example and think of others more than we do ourselves. Don't be proud or arrogant. Humility is a state of mind that is well pleasing to God and it will preserve your soul in tranquility and make you patient under trials.
Your socks are Patience:
Ever forget to put socks on before you put on your shoes? Have some patience. You were probably rushing around to get out the door to work. Take a deep breath and relax. You have heard it said, "Patience is a virtue". See how much easier your day goes when you make it through without complaining. Don't lose your temper. Don't get annoyed. Easier said than done? Not so if you are being intentional with your attitude. Let the peace of Christ reign in your heart. Look at a red light when you are in a hurry as God telling you to slow down. Quietly and steadily persevere through trials. The way you react to situations will have a far greater influence on others than anything you say.
Your scarf is Gentleness:
I love to wear scarfs as an accessory. I made a New Year's Resolution to wear more scarfs and have continued in my effort, even in the summer. (summer scarfs are available too) I prefer to wear infinity scarfs. I like the way they lightly drape around my neck. You have to have the right scarf to go with your shirt. If your "shirt" is going to be giving someone a hug that is in desperate need of encouragement, you need to be gentle when you do so. Take care when comforting someone and be pleasant and good natured. People can tell if you are being fake-so be real. Be friendly to all those you come in contact with and show your good nature. Compassion with gentleness shows the warmth of your heart.
Your belt is Love:
Love ties everything together. Love is going to hold compassion and kindness in place. Love won't let your patience or humility get covered up. (Those socks and shoes are important-you didn't spend all that time putting them on if you didn't want them to be seen.) Gentleness fits right in with your completed outfit because you matched it with the rest of your outfit. Let love guide your life. Imitate Christ's forgiveness to others. The key to forgiving others is remembering how much God has forgiven you. Is it difficult for you to forgive someone who has wronged you a little when God has forgiven you so much? Realizing God's infinite love and forgiveness can help you love and forgive others.
It's time to get dressed! Whether you are hanging out at home today, getting ready to go to a birthday party, or preparing for a long day at work-you need to put some clothes on! If you are wearing compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, patience, and love, no one will notice if you match or not, they will only notice Jesus.
Wait! You missed a button!
Thursday, July 23, 2015
Overcoming Discouragement
Once upon a time, “The Devil” decided to organize an exhibition. The Devil informed people that the tools from the tool box will be displayed with the price tags so that people can buy any of those tools.
On the day of exhibition, people started coming to the venue.
On one stand there was the shining dagger of ‘Jealousy’. Next to the Jealousy was the knife of ‘Anger’. There was an arrow of ‘Greed’, ‘Want’, and 'Desire', all beautifully displayed with different prices. There were the weapons of 'Fear', 'Pride' and 'Hatred' as well. Each one had been carefully presented, and labelled with its name and corresponding price.
But in a section all on its own, quite separate from the rest, was a small, unimpressive, stand of wood, which the Devil had labelled ‘Discouragement’. Surprisingly, the price of this tool was higher than all the others put together. When someone asked the reason for the difference and such a high price of ‘Discouragement’ as a tool, the Devil replied, ‘The reason I value this tool so highly is that it is the one tool that I know I can always rely on if the others fail.’ With a smile the devil said: ‘If I can just insert discouragement into a person’s mind, it opens up the door for every type of negativity. There is nothing quite so deadly as Discouragement.’
Each and every one of us gets discouraged at one time or another. I am sure at least one of you reading this now is battling with discouragement today. We don't use that word often and may actually mislabel the feelings we are having as being something other than 'discouraged'. Like the story above, our struggles have root in discouragement.
In order to overcome discouragement we have to look at the causes of discouragement. In each of these reasons I will refer to scripture so that you can see how these people from the Bible faced the same battles we face today and how they took refuge in the Lord to overcome discouragement.
1. People are critical of you or ridicule you.
1 Samuel 17 is the story of David and Goliath. We all know David was victorious and eventually became king. But first he was a young shepherd boy that no one paid any attention to. In verses 28-32 his big brother heard him talking to some men before the fighting with the Philistines began. David's brother started criticizing him for leaving the sheep, accusing him of coming down just for the show, and being out of line for thinking he could be of any use in this situation. Have you ever been told your help isn't needed? Has anyone ever told you that you can't do the job? Who has made fun of you for thinking you could accomplish an arduous task? Criticism wouldn't stop David. While everyone else was standing around twiddling their thumbs trying to decide what to do-David took action. With God to fight for him, there was no reason to wait.
Nehemiah was set with the task of rebuilding the wall around Jerusalem. Sanballat and Tobiah ridiculed him constantly. Some of their jeers were, "What are these feeble Jews doing? Will they restore things? Will they sacrifice? Will they finish it in a day? Will they revive the stones out of the heaps of rubbish-and burned ones at that?" Every flashback I have to relate to Nehemiah takes me back to middle school. "Look at Katie...who does she think she is trying to read that novel...she'll never finish it...she thinks she is so smart because she reads.....I'm going to move her bookmark so she looses her place." (True Story) Ridicule can cut deeply, causing discouragement and despair. When you are mocked for your faith or criticized for doing what is right, refuse to respond in the same way or to become discouraged. People may try to discourage you with negative comments or mockery, but continue to do what you know is right. By doing what is right, you will be pleasing God, whose opinion matters most. (Amen)
I showed those bullies who was boss! They never messed with me and my book reading again! I showed them; I stopped reading! (True Story)
2. Things aren't going your way.
Hannah was a poor old lady that couldn't have any children. In Old Testament times a childless woman was considered a failure. To make matters worse, she had a neighbor lady pumping out kids and making fun of her for being barren. Her husband couldn't solve her problems. 1 Samuel 1:10 deals with her distress and weeping to the Lord over her situation. You may be facing a time of barrenness with nothing "comes to birth" in your work, service, or relationships. Do what Hannah did. She prayed. Prayer opens the way for God to work. A change in your attitude can be seen when you honestly pray to God and resolve to leave the problem with God. Encouragement from others helps us during these times. Pray that someone will cross your path to give you kind words that will help you. Keep that in mind and be sure that you give encouragement to others. You never know when a kind word will make all the difference in someone's life.
3. Being Lonely, exhausted and disappointed.
1 Kings 18 and 19 give a detailed picture of a prophet that had two spiritual victories and yet was so discouraged he was ready to die. Elijah was fleeing for his life after triumph over the evil prophets. He was sure everyone would turn back to God, but instead Jezebel was angry over the loss of her prophets and plotted to kill Elijah. He felt like the was the only person left that was still true to God. When you are tempted to feel you are the only one remaining faithful to a task, don't stop to feel sorry for yourself. Self-pity will dilute the good you are doing. Be assured that even if you don't know who they are, others are faithfully obeying God and fulfilling their duties. Step back and look at your life. Are you getting enough rest? Are you eating right, or eating at all? Make sure you take care of yourself physically so you can be rejuvenated and continue the work that has been set before you.
4. You are ignored.
Exodus 5:3 and Exodus 9:1 show Moses seeking the release of the Israelites. He wanted permission to go worship in the wilderness and sacrifice to the Lord-but told no. He then (in your best Charlton Heston voice) demanded "Let my people go...." -but told no. Pharaoh would not listen to Moses. Talk to the hand. Pharaoh didn't know or respect God. People who do not know God may not listen to His Word or His messengers. Like Moses, we need to persist. When others reject you or your faith, don't be surprised or discouraged. Continue to tell them about God, trusting Him to open minds and soften stubborn hearts. By Exodus 9:1, Moses had been back to see Pharaoh 5 times to petition for his people and would end up going back at least 5 more times to get his people released. I am sure he was tired and discouraged after the 5th time, but he continued to obey God and kept going back. Is there a difficult conflict you must face again and again? Don't give up when you know what is right to do. As Moses discovered, persistence is rewarded.
John 12:37-38New International Version (NIV)
1 As the deer pants for streams of water,
On the day of exhibition, people started coming to the venue.
On one stand there was the shining dagger of ‘Jealousy’. Next to the Jealousy was the knife of ‘Anger’. There was an arrow of ‘Greed’, ‘Want’, and 'Desire', all beautifully displayed with different prices. There were the weapons of 'Fear', 'Pride' and 'Hatred' as well. Each one had been carefully presented, and labelled with its name and corresponding price.
But in a section all on its own, quite separate from the rest, was a small, unimpressive, stand of wood, which the Devil had labelled ‘Discouragement’. Surprisingly, the price of this tool was higher than all the others put together. When someone asked the reason for the difference and such a high price of ‘Discouragement’ as a tool, the Devil replied, ‘The reason I value this tool so highly is that it is the one tool that I know I can always rely on if the others fail.’ With a smile the devil said: ‘If I can just insert discouragement into a person’s mind, it opens up the door for every type of negativity. There is nothing quite so deadly as Discouragement.’
Each and every one of us gets discouraged at one time or another. I am sure at least one of you reading this now is battling with discouragement today. We don't use that word often and may actually mislabel the feelings we are having as being something other than 'discouraged'. Like the story above, our struggles have root in discouragement.
In order to overcome discouragement we have to look at the causes of discouragement. In each of these reasons I will refer to scripture so that you can see how these people from the Bible faced the same battles we face today and how they took refuge in the Lord to overcome discouragement.
1. People are critical of you or ridicule you.
1 Samuel 17 is the story of David and Goliath. We all know David was victorious and eventually became king. But first he was a young shepherd boy that no one paid any attention to. In verses 28-32 his big brother heard him talking to some men before the fighting with the Philistines began. David's brother started criticizing him for leaving the sheep, accusing him of coming down just for the show, and being out of line for thinking he could be of any use in this situation. Have you ever been told your help isn't needed? Has anyone ever told you that you can't do the job? Who has made fun of you for thinking you could accomplish an arduous task? Criticism wouldn't stop David. While everyone else was standing around twiddling their thumbs trying to decide what to do-David took action. With God to fight for him, there was no reason to wait.
Nehemiah was set with the task of rebuilding the wall around Jerusalem. Sanballat and Tobiah ridiculed him constantly. Some of their jeers were, "What are these feeble Jews doing? Will they restore things? Will they sacrifice? Will they finish it in a day? Will they revive the stones out of the heaps of rubbish-and burned ones at that?" Every flashback I have to relate to Nehemiah takes me back to middle school. "Look at Katie...who does she think she is trying to read that novel...she'll never finish it...she thinks she is so smart because she reads.....I'm going to move her bookmark so she looses her place." (True Story) Ridicule can cut deeply, causing discouragement and despair. When you are mocked for your faith or criticized for doing what is right, refuse to respond in the same way or to become discouraged. People may try to discourage you with negative comments or mockery, but continue to do what you know is right. By doing what is right, you will be pleasing God, whose opinion matters most. (Amen)
I showed those bullies who was boss! They never messed with me and my book reading again! I showed them; I stopped reading! (True Story)
2. Things aren't going your way.
Hannah was a poor old lady that couldn't have any children. In Old Testament times a childless woman was considered a failure. To make matters worse, she had a neighbor lady pumping out kids and making fun of her for being barren. Her husband couldn't solve her problems. 1 Samuel 1:10 deals with her distress and weeping to the Lord over her situation. You may be facing a time of barrenness with nothing "comes to birth" in your work, service, or relationships. Do what Hannah did. She prayed. Prayer opens the way for God to work. A change in your attitude can be seen when you honestly pray to God and resolve to leave the problem with God. Encouragement from others helps us during these times. Pray that someone will cross your path to give you kind words that will help you. Keep that in mind and be sure that you give encouragement to others. You never know when a kind word will make all the difference in someone's life.
3. Being Lonely, exhausted and disappointed.
1 Kings 18 and 19 give a detailed picture of a prophet that had two spiritual victories and yet was so discouraged he was ready to die. Elijah was fleeing for his life after triumph over the evil prophets. He was sure everyone would turn back to God, but instead Jezebel was angry over the loss of her prophets and plotted to kill Elijah. He felt like the was the only person left that was still true to God. When you are tempted to feel you are the only one remaining faithful to a task, don't stop to feel sorry for yourself. Self-pity will dilute the good you are doing. Be assured that even if you don't know who they are, others are faithfully obeying God and fulfilling their duties. Step back and look at your life. Are you getting enough rest? Are you eating right, or eating at all? Make sure you take care of yourself physically so you can be rejuvenated and continue the work that has been set before you.
4. You are ignored.
Exodus 5:3 and Exodus 9:1 show Moses seeking the release of the Israelites. He wanted permission to go worship in the wilderness and sacrifice to the Lord-but told no. He then (in your best Charlton Heston voice) demanded "Let my people go...." -but told no. Pharaoh would not listen to Moses. Talk to the hand. Pharaoh didn't know or respect God. People who do not know God may not listen to His Word or His messengers. Like Moses, we need to persist. When others reject you or your faith, don't be surprised or discouraged. Continue to tell them about God, trusting Him to open minds and soften stubborn hearts. By Exodus 9:1, Moses had been back to see Pharaoh 5 times to petition for his people and would end up going back at least 5 more times to get his people released. I am sure he was tired and discouraged after the 5th time, but he continued to obey God and kept going back. Is there a difficult conflict you must face again and again? Don't give up when you know what is right to do. As Moses discovered, persistence is rewarded.
John 12:37-38New International Version (NIV)
Belief and Unbelief Among the Jews
37 Even after Jesus had performed so many signs in their presence, they still would not believe in him. 38 This was to fulfill the word of Isaiah the prophet:
“Lord, who has believed our message
and to whom has the arm of the Lord been revealed?”
and to whom has the arm of the Lord been revealed?”
Maybe you are being ignored as you share Jesus with someone that doesn't know who He is. Jesus had performed many miracles, but most people still didn't believe in him. Likewise, many today won't believe despite all God does. Don't be discouraged if your witness for Christ doesn't turn as many to Him as you'd like. Your job is to continue to be a faithful witness. You are responsible to reach out to others but they are responsible for their own decisions.
5. You don't feel God near or hear His voice.
Psalm 42 (NIV)
1 As the deer pants for streams of water,
so my soul pants for you, my God.
2 My soul thirsts for God, for the living God.
When can I go and meet with God?
3 My tears have been my food
day and night,
while people say to me all day long,
“Where is your God?”
4 These things I remember
as I pour out my soul:
how I used to go to the house of God
under the protection of the Mighty One
with shouts of joy and praise
among the festive throng.
5 Why, my soul, are you downcast?
Why so disturbed within me?
Put your hope in God,
for I will yet praise him,
my Savior and my God.
Why so disturbed within me?
Put your hope in God,
for I will yet praise him,
my Savior and my God.
6 My soul is downcast within me;
therefore I will remember you
from the land of the Jordan,
the heights of Hermon—from Mount Mizar.
7 Deep calls to deep
in the roar of your waterfalls;
all your waves and breakers
have swept over me.
therefore I will remember you
from the land of the Jordan,
the heights of Hermon—from Mount Mizar.
7 Deep calls to deep
in the roar of your waterfalls;
all your waves and breakers
have swept over me.
8 By day the Lord directs his love,
at night his song is with me—
a prayer to the God of my life.
at night his song is with me—
a prayer to the God of my life.
9 I say to God my Rock,
“Why have you forgotten me?
Why must I go about mourning,
oppressed by the enemy?”
10 My bones suffer mortal agony
as my foes taunt me,
saying to me all day long,
“Where is your God?”
“Why have you forgotten me?
Why must I go about mourning,
oppressed by the enemy?”
10 My bones suffer mortal agony
as my foes taunt me,
saying to me all day long,
“Where is your God?”
11 Why, my soul, are you downcast?
Why so disturbed within me?
Put your hope in God,
for I will yet praise him,
my Savior and my God.
Why so disturbed within me?
Put your hope in God,
for I will yet praise him,
my Savior and my God.
There may come times when, after thirsting for God, weeping for His help, and enduring riducle, we still do not hear His voice. Such times often lead to depression and discouragement but the psalmist discovered a remedy. He remembered God's great blessings. He realized that although God seemed silent, He was present with him. He gazed upon God's beautiful creation that proclaims His love. The psalmist had felt sorrow, but he realized that he was never adrift from God's steadfast love. Finally he faithfully expected God to act. When you cannot seem to find God, use this remedy and you will, once again, find reason to praise Him. Focus your thoughts on God's ability to help you, rather than your inability to help yourself.
Pray with me:
Father, it amazes me that discouragement is the only tool that the devil needs to trip us up and make us unable to focus on Your truth. In Jeremiah 29:11 you tell us the plans you have for us. They are plans to prosper us and not to harm us. You have plans to give us a hope and a future. With that being Your truth, help us to cover satan's lies with that promise. No matter who criticizes me, no matter who makes fun of me, no matter if things aren't going my way, even if I feel lonely or depressed and feel like no one is listening to me, I know that You are listening to me, even when I can't see or hear You. You are always here for us, lifting us up, when we come to You. God, show us Your path and make our way straight so that we can follow you with lives full of your mercy, grace, and encouragement. There is no place for discouragement in our lives with you as our Savior. Thank you for loving us. Amen.
Subscribe to:
Comments (Atom)