Marvelous Faith

Frank Sinatra sang “You’re too marvelous for words.”  Sweet words of endearment!  It’s origin is from an Old French word, merveillus, which means “to cause great wonder.”  This is good to know … for those of us who don’t speak French!

 

Matthew uses the word marvel 8 times to describe responses of others to Jesus: the people marveled at Jesus’ teaching and His power to heal and cast out demons; the disciples marveled at Jesus’ authority to subdue the storm; Pilate marveled at Jesus’ silence when presented with accusations against Him.  The Greek word for marvel translates “to wonder, be amazed.”  Jesus marveled, however, once in Matthew’s Gospel in response to only one thing: the Centurion’s faith.  Jesus said, “I have not found so great faith, no, not in Israel.” (Matthew 8:10).  The Centurion, a Roman solider and a Gentile, declared this faith in accordance with the Authority he believe of Jesus.  Mark records Jesus’ marvel when rejected in His hometown, “And He marveled because of their unbelief [lack of faith].” (Mark 6:6).  What kind of faith is it this Gentile man possessed?  For certain, it was real, but what was its root?  Hebrews 12:2 says it is faith secured in “Jesus the Author and Finisher of our faith.” (Hebrew 12:2).  This is the faith at which Jesus marveled!  In contrast, it is the lack of this faith at which Jesus also marveled.  Christian friend, if your faith is tethered to anything or anyone else, it is not secure!  It is both counterfeit and unstable – it will not serve you well; it will stand the test of time or circumstance.  Whatever storm you are in right now, trust Him Who is Faithful, Sure, Steadfast.  Embrace marvelous faith!

Trace Your Name

Just above my left eye, hidden in my eyebrow, is a scar.  I do not remember the incident, but I am told when I was very young I fell on some brick steps.  No, I don’t even remember Mama grabbing me up and running for … well, no one really knows WHERE she was running to!

 

Struggles will always be part of life here as will be the tendency to stay anxious.  Finances, relationships, schedules, disappointments, heartache, sorrow, loneliness, and so many other things push-push-push us to wonder, "Does God really care?”  We know, of course, He does but still we wonder, “Where are You, God?”  I remember raising my hand in school when I knew the answer.  Picture this if you can: God has raised His hand high – He IS The Answer and tries to get our attention.  He knows every detail of our lives: every pain we feel, every hurt we know, every tear we cry, every anxious moment we experience.  Now, look closely at His hand, " ... I will not forget thee. Behold, I have graven thee upon the palms of my hands ... " (Isaiah 49:15-16).   The Hebrew word for

"graven" is "cut, traced."  Your name and my name --  cut into the hands of God.  It is impossible that He cannot know, cannot care. There is no way for Him to forget us!  Put your hand into His and know His peace as you …  trace your name!

No Chokers

How many of you [ladies] owned a choker – that close-fitting necklace?  They may still be fashionable although I mostly remember them as high fashion in the 70’s and 80’s.  Isn’t “choker” a strange name for a piece of jewelry!

Oswald Chambers suggests each day comes with “mean little imps” – I chuckled at that humorous description of those naggies that cause us to worry about stuff!  Lest we miss His point, Jesus said “do not be anxious” three times in just a few verses of Matthew 6.  Anxiety can be a real show-stopper!  Did you know that chokers actually first appeared in 1798 as French jewelry worn by wealthy ladies?  They were worn by ballerinas and queens in the 1800’s.  Consequently, however, they were also used as a form of bondage in the Middle Ages, worn by slaves.  Anxiety easily holds us captive, choking out (replacing) the faith we should place in God, Who is our full Portion and Sufficiency.   In Matthew 6:25, Jesus says, “Take no thought for your life” (KJV) or “Do not be anxious about your life” (ESV).  I suspect many of us wear spiritual chokers relying on self-sufficiency.  Jesus said “your Father knows” our every need and will faithfully provide.  I probably owned a few chokers “in the day,” but I’m done with that fashion!  However, I’d really like to make a spiritual fashion statement by laying aside life’s anxieties and really trusting My Father like I should – what do you say?

Expectant Living

Do you know anyone who is "expecting?"  Since that term isn't used much anymore in the context of pregnancy, the younger generation might wonder: expecting what?

 

Those who have an accurate understanding of God live in expectancy.  We may try to crowd God out of the day's plans, but do not be so foolish -- He isn't threatened!  I am currently learning to give God workspace, or as Oswald Chambers says it, allow God “elbow room.”  Although I understand the implied meaning, I’m not particularly fond of the phrase “God works in mysterious ways.”  It's true, of course, we live with a very limited view of life, which may seem mysterious, but there’s nothing unusual or surprising about God.  His ways and timing are as certain and sure as His Nature.  If we are caught off-guard or blindsided by God, we have failed to comprehend Who He is as He has revealed Himself through His Son and is ever revealing and leading by His Spirit.  All our best estimations and calculations will not preempt the divine work of the Holy Spirit!  So how do we make room for God to work?  Psalm 62:5 says, "For God alone, O my soul, wait in silence, for my hope is from Him." The psalmist does not write of a boring wait, rather one that is filled with confident expectation and anticipation God will act as He wills and pleases.  What a challenge to clear my agenda, my playbook, allowing God both time and “elbow room” to develop and complete His purpose in my life.  It’s scary at times, but I’m learning to live expectantly.  How about you?

His Good Pleasure

Several years ago I was introduced to Beach Butlers – never heard of such a thing.  As I lounged on a Caribbean beach, this nice uniformed gentlemen approached and asked, “Ma’am, may I bring you a cool glass of refreshment?”  When he delivered my cold Diet Coke a short time later, I thought – yeah, I could get used to this!

 

Oswald Chambers wrote, “As workers for God we have to learn to make room for God.”  It’s true, Mr. Bill has spoiled me but he also [at times] enjoys a bit of pampering when he makes it to his recliner.  If you want to know your basic thoughts toward God, listen to yourself pray: are they filled more with asking for things or acknowledging Who He is?  Don’t misunderstand – we should petition God according to His will, but conceding His Greatness is fundamental to how we see Almighty God.  He does not exist for us – rather, we are created for His good pleasure.  In his Galatian letter, Paul described his former life when he persecuted the Church then wrote, “But when He Who had set me apart before I was born, and Who called me by His Grace, was pleased to reveal His Son to me …” (Galatians 1:15-16a).  Paul’s Damascus Road conversion was unexpected but right on time according to the Pleasure of Almighty God.  If we truly adhere to the Sovereignty of God and the works of His Sovereign Grace, we understand all things are in accordance with His perfect plan and purpose.  Why is this so important?  Because this is one of the characteristics of Who God is – not One Who imparts mercy and grace to us at our bidding but instead by His prevailing Wisdom and Power.  This fundamental Truth about God’s Nature will mark the Christian’s attitude in prayer, service, and daily living.  His promise of Romans 8:28 that “… all things work together for the good to them that love God, to them who are called according to His purpose” assures us that His Good Pleasure is all the pleasure we need!

Search Over

This older-me seems to search more often.  It's sad, but "search" on my computer is one of my favorite features.  Yes, Search & Me make quite a team: I lose it - Search finds it!

 

Considering all my books, I often ponder just how many books I need to find God, to know Him more intimately, to draw closer to Him. After all, I have His Holy Word so what more do I need?  God said to the Prophet Isaiah, "I, even I, am He Who blots out your transgressions ... "  There we have it!  No more searching required.  It's reported when Charles Wesley experienced God's forgiveness, he said to a friend, "I suppose I had better keep silent about it" to which his friend replied: "Oh, no, my brother. If you had a thousand tongues, you should go and use them all for Jesus." Charles Wesley went home and wrote these words:

 

Oh, for a thousand tongues to sing – My great Redeemer's praise.

The glories of my God and King – The triumphs of His grace!

 

As God perfectly identified and revealed Himself in Christ Jesus – He Who blots out our transgressions – the search is over!  Let us rest completely in His victorious Grace.

Extravagant Love

What do you dream about?  Occasionally, I wander onto some travel website and begin drooling over the clear waters and white sands of the Caribbean.  Then Mr. Bill comes along and wakes me up!

 

Extravagant living truly is a dream - at least among my circle of friends.  Extravagant worship of God, however, is well within the reach of every Believer!  Unfortunately, few of us get to that place in our spirit -- one with His -- to know such unrestrained devotion.  God gave the prophet Jeremiah a somber message for His people whose hearts were so divided: “I remember the devotion of your youth …” (Jeremiah 2:2). I cannot imagine Mr. Bill saying to me, "Mama," (that's what he calls me most of the time), "I just don't love you like I used to."  Even though he's stuck with me -- those words would crush me!  Can’t you just hear God’s heart as He tells the people to whom He promised Himself and all His benefits:  I remember a time when you loved me!  It's not unusual that I get a random email or texts from Mr. Bill that simply says "ILUVU" – that random message reminds me of his devotion and that he’s thinking of me.  Oswald Chambers poses these probing, humbling questions: "Am I as filled to overflowing with love for Jesus Christ as I was in the beginning, when I went out of my way to prove my devotion to Him?  Does He ever find me pondering the time when I cared only for Him?  Is that where I am now, or have I chosen man’s wisdom over true love for Him?"  True followers of Jesus possess the most extravagant spirits because of their extravagant love for Him!  What we do and say and how we respond in kindness to others should be so divinely excessive there is no question where our affections are.  Such a life is not a dream -- something to wish for or hope for; it’s reality when Christ Jesus is our Love-of-Life.  Such devotion to Christ should not be a memory but a present joy and reality.  Declare your love for Christ today -- love extravagantly!

Stay Fresh

Not everything that boasts “air tight” is really … air tight!  Without mentioning names, some products just don’t do the job.  Who wants stale crackers, chips, bread or such when effective sealing delivers … crisp and fresh!

 

Times of spiritual refreshment are sweet indeed: quiet moments, sitting on the porch with an open Bible work well for me.  I am reminded, however, that being “born of the Spirit” is a work of God – it’s not the Bible, the quietness, or even obedience!  All these are good, but spiritual freshness comes because of the Holy Spirit.  Oswald Chambers wrote, “Guard jealously your relationship to God.” While Scripture warns us against human jealousy, godly jealousy is healthy!  Christians should have an accurate understanding of divine jealousy: when God says "So watch yourselves, that you do not forget the Covenant of the Lord your God which He made with you ... For the Lord your God is a consuming fire, a jealous God" (Deuteronomy 4:23-24), He is declaring deep affection for and faithfulness to His [Covenant] people -- those whom He adores, those precious to Him, His treasures.  It’s comforting to me that Mr. Bill wants to protect, provide for and spend time with me (his wife); how much more assuring it is when God says, "For I am jealous for you with a godly jealousy ... “ (2 Corinthians 11:2).  The root Hebrew word for "jealous" is "zealous" -- passionate, devoted, enthusiastic, intense, eager; this is how divinely "jealous" God is to have all my affections – my undivided devotion!  Have you ever considered how absolutely amazingly wonderful it is that Almighty God is jealous for you?  When we are passionate for Him in return, spiritual "staleness" just won't do -- we will be disciplined toward spiritual freshness.  Stay fresh!

Act Like It

It’s hard to describe a meltdown but we all know what one looks like!  The Urban Dictionary says it’s when someone “freaks out, cracks up, loses control.”  Like a nuclear meltdown, it’s usually best to just clear the area!

 

We all can recall days when it seemed we were headed north in southbound traffic!  The writer of Romans 8:31 asks, “If God is for us, who can be against us?”  This isn’t a lighthearted or catchy phrase but rather a probe to consider just how confident you are in Almighty God.  I propose Christians, including myself, lack the proper view of God.  Aside from being feeble dust, why else are we prone to meltdowns?  God said, “Behold, I am the LORD, the God of all flesh.  Is anything too hard for me?” (Jeremiah 32:27).  Luke writes, “For nothing will be impossible with God.” (1:37).  Both of these Truths are profound and well-founded.  Don’t we not know “He Who promised is faithful” (Hebrews 10:23)?  Why the meltdowns – Why do we wring our hands in despair – Why do we live as if we have no Hope?  Quite simply, if we believe God is Who He says He is and does what He says He’ll do, let’s do something radical:  act like it!

Cut Loose

In an old movie, Abbott & Costello rowed furiously away from danger but the threat still loomed – the boat was still tied to the dock!  The scene reminds me of Dad's description of riding a stationary bicycle for the first time, "I peddled and peddled, but didn't get anywhere."

 

"And when they had taken up the anchors, they committed themselves unto the sea, and loosed the rudder bands, and hoisted up the mainsail to the wind,

and made toward shore." (Acts 27:40). This passage tells of the doomed voyage as Paul and other prisoners were being taken to Rome.  The crew of Paul's ship were serious about moving on -- took up anchor, loosed the rudder bands and hoisted the mainsail to the wind ... "they committed themselves unto the sea."  What is it that holds us back in our walk with Christ?  Is it selfish habits? Old sin? Tradition?  Timid thinking?  Apathy?  Fear?  Yes, I know there is great safety in staying anchored or even remaining on shore.  The truth about ships, however, is "a ship in harbor is safe, but that is not what ships are for."  God intimately calls each of us to take up the anchor, cut loose what binds us, and give way to His Will in all our ways and days.  Smooth sailing?  Probably not.  Scary?  Definitely.  Safe?  Of course.  My Dad writes, "We are made on purpose with a purpose." God's wants us to know that purpose and to see us live out that purpose for which we are designed.  A New Year -- a new  challenge, a new vision.  Let's cut loose!

Understand

The song "Pomp and Circumstance" usually draws attention, calling us to notorious displays of grandeur and formality.  Interestingly, this Greek word gave us the word “pompous,” which means self-important and arrogant.  Now, who celebrates that character trait!

 

Heroes -- are there any left?  Even in recent years, we've witnessed those held in high regard fall because of poor past choices and bad behavior.  In truth, each one of us is merely one weak moment away from disaster.  "Man in his pomp yet without understanding is like the beasts that perish.” (Psalm 49:20, ESV).  Understand what?  The one who has no spiritual understanding that the next life (eternal) trumps this life (earthly) -- like animals -- is destined for destruction ... here and then.  "For when he dies he shall carry nothing away;     His glory shall not descend after him. Though while he lives he blesses himself. (For men will praise you when you do well for yourself), he shall go to the generation of his fathers; they shall never see light." (V.17-19).  Christians are not without understanding as they understand it is the soul of man that is attentive to Godliness - the infinite lifespan of the soul. "The unfolding of Your words gives light; it imparts understanding to the simple.” (Psalm 119:130); hence, "Your testimonies are Righteous forever, give me understanding that I may live." (119:144).  Oh, rich is the soul whose evidences now eternal decor!  Endeavor to understand the riches of God’s Word.  Understand!

So Great Salvation

Cause and effect has [at times] baffled me.  Gravity isn’t something we can monkey with.  It is the root cause of things crashing to the ground, and the effect is rarely pleasant!

 

Salvation, God’s provision for man’s sin, isn’t just great but is so great, the author of Hebrews  2:3 writes.  And why?  Well, consider the difference in an original piece of art and a gicleé (a reproduction).  While the gicleé may be a finely produced, high-quality print, it is not the original.   God’s salvation is so great because of its origin.  Not only that – it’s outcome for the soul of man is unsurpassed.  What else could we possibly expect from the amazing love of God than an amazing outpouring of mercy!  The psalmist wrote, “For as the heavens are high above the earth, so great is His mercy toward those who fear Him.”  (Psalm 103:11).  This so great salvation is cause and effect for the Redeemed soul to sing!  Are you singing yet?

Well Well-Beings

At the beginning of each year, Mr. Bill schedules his complete physical.  With a family and personal history of cancer, it’s the yearly maintenance he’s committed to.  Now, if we can just get him to trimming that buffet of bedtime snacks!

 

It’s scary to me that most Christians live with no sense of spiritual world!  Generally speaking, if we can’t hear it, touch it, feel it – it is as if it does not exist.  Nothing could be farther from the truth according to Scripture!  Consider this penetrating question: “How shall we escap[e is we neglect so great a salvation?” (Hebrews 2:3).  This greater salvation, announced by Christ, [like the OT Law] came with great retribution so the writer of Hebrews wants us to consider the consequences of showing no concern for its neglect!  Of course, those who simply reject salvation must consider the terms of rejection but what about those who embrace salvation yet neglect their spiritual health – how will we escape?  Yes, I know well that road “paved with good intentions!”  Let us be challenged to good heart health in this coming year, and not neglect to “grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.” (2 Peter 3:18).   Let us [indeed] be well well-beings!

Ready to Live

Posted, as reminders, in a designated spot are appointment cards for doctor appointments.  What a smart idea although there’s absolutely no guarantee we’ll remember!

 

Our culture seems to be obsessed with extending life, putting forth every conceivable and viable effort to avoid the set appointment each of us have with death.  James writes life is a vapor, fading quickly (4:14), and “it is appointed unto men once to die” (Hebrews 9:27).  Like it not, accept it or not – this is certain.  This certain truth is not intended to bring about melancholy or fear, but rather rejoicing – at least for those who have put their Hope in Jesus Christ.  It’s why we sing “Because He lives, I can face tomorrow!”  Leaving this life [in death], we anticipate (look forward to) more: “there shall be no more death, nor sorrow, nor crying. There shall be no more pain.” (Revelation 21:4). Yes, yet we ask: what about now – how do we really live in this vapor of a life?  First and foremost, we live prepared for the appointment we have to meet The Creator, our Maker.  Soul secured, we are ready to face every tomorrow in Hope and without dread.  O. S. Hawkins writes, “We are never really ready to live until we are ready to die.” Oh, how true!  Are you ready for your appointment with death.  If so, you are ready to live!

Our Certainty

The weather map across the country shows frigid temperatures.  Having experienced an unusually warm December, I can only say: it’s January – it’s supposed to be cold!

 

The world’s smartest have been unable to satisfactorily answer James’ question: “What is your life?” (James 4:14).  We know and enjoy the celebration of years – our birthdays – but Scripture tells us [rather] to “number our days” (Psalm 90:12).  What then is the right perspective for a probing question: what is your life?  I’ve not yet stepped outside, but when I do I suspect my breath will be visible when I exhale.  James state a profound truth about this life: “It is even a vapor that appears for a little time and then vanishes away.” (James 4:14).  Life is difficult and life is also uncertain.  The uncertainties are certain – never doubt this! While life is uncertain, there is One Who is Certain – unchanging, eternal and faithful.  Peter encourages us to trust our souls to the “faithful Creator” (1 Peter 4:19), Who does “not change” (Malachi 1:6), with Whom there is “no variation or shadow due to change” (James 1:17).  So, what then is your life?  It is brief, fleeting, passing but sustained day-by-day by One Who is the ”first and last, the beginning and the end” (Revelation 22:13).  This answer is sufficient because He is Sufficient – He is our Certainty!

Here and Now

Exploration – it inspires the young, it fuels research, it’s the railway for progress.  My son, Dennis, used to “dumpster dive” (I sincerely hope he’s past that now) and those “dives” in exploration resulted in some strange and unusual things on my kitchen table!

 

James the Just (as he was called), the brother of Jesus, asks an exploratory question:  “Come now, you who say, ‘Today or tomorrow we will go into such and such a town and spend a year there and trade and make a profit’ – yet you do not know what tomorrow will bring. What is your life? For you are a mist that appears for a little time and then vanishes.” (James 1:13-14).  That what-is-your-life question can lead to some genuine soul-searching!  Our culture herds the masses to consider mostly the here-and-now, overshadowing the reality of eternity.  Billions are spent on anti-aging, for example, putting away thoughts of the afterlife and the ordained appointment each of us have with death.  “But as it is, you boast (vainly] in your pretension and arrogance. All such boasting is evil.” (V.16).  The psalmist directs us, however, to a righteously healthy focus of life: “Teach us to number our days, that we may gain a heart of wisdom.” (Psalm 90:12).  Did 2016 arrive with a pounding of “What is your life?”  It’s a good question, and God has wonderful answers, applicable here and now.  Read His Word – Seek His Wisdom – He’ll answer you.