Focus and Hold Fast!

Do you know anyone who seems to feed on drama? Personally, I can do without drama! While we love to read David's psalms of peacefully quiet times, he had a lot of less-than-peaceful days during his life. Psalm 2 speaks of times when kings and rulers rage and plot against the Godly. That could be today's headlines! This psalm proclaims The Messiah, God's only begotten Son (Jesus) installed in Zion, the holy mountain, Who has been given [by God] the nations and the very ends of the earth (V.6-8). "You shall break them with a rod of iron, You shall shatter them like earthenware." (V.9). In these days when fear and despair threaten to upend us, let us do as commanded: "Worship the LORD with reverence and rejoice with trembling. Do homage to The Son that He not become angry, and you perish in the way ... How blessed are all who take refuge in Him!" (V.11-12). Really, it's a matter of focus and discipline; setting aside those things which draw us away from The Father and diminish Christ [in us], and embracing and holding fast to The Rock, The Refuge, The Strong Tower, The Deliverer. Focus and hold fast!

Spiritual Tracking

You know, I don't know anyone who is fond of being tracked without their knowledge or permission. Mister Bill and I, however, like tracking one another; sometimes it adds a bit of humor to life. The psalmist asks, "Where shall I go from Your Spirit? Or where shall I flee from Your presence?" (Psalm 139:7). He answers ... nowhere: not heaven nor hell nor the depths of the  sea, even darkness cannot hide us from God. (V. 8-12). Why then do so many Believers feel God dwells at a distance? Romans 8:7 tells us the carnal or worldly mind is an enemy to God. After Adam sinned came a separation or barrier to the once sweet-natural-intimate fellowship between God and man. Because of sin, we all now come into this world separated, naturally distant from The Creator. That sinful divide doesn't have to remain: "Remember that you were at that time separated from Christ, alienated ... having no hope and without God in the world. But now in Christ Jesus you who once were far off have been brought near by the blood of Christ." (Ephesians 2:12-13). Don't miss these words of hope and promise: once separated and distant, because of Christ, we are now brought near! I've heard too many Believers describe their spiritual life as "off-track" and God "far away." Been there myself, and the problem is always tracked back to my relationship with Jesus. To know God's Presence we must maintain an active and close relationship to Christ. Yes, God is omnipresent and has promised to be with His people always, but Believer will always mark or track God's Presence through and by His Son, Jesus Christ. We are wise to consider our own spiritual tracking!

Drink Deeply

 It is more common to say "I'm thirsty" than "I'm parched"; nonetheless, both indicate a need for refreshment! The word "parchment" is a Greek word, pertaining to the ancient city of Pergamum where it is believed parchment was first used. The [post-papyrus and pre-paper] parchment was made from animal skins, which were tanned, soaked, scraped, washed, stretched, treated and dried making them suitable for writing of scrolls, legal documents, etc. I suggest there are many times in the Believer's spiritual life we resemble that dried-out piece of parchment. During his flight from Beersheba, his homeland, Jacob slept in an open field where God revealed Himself and renewed the promise made to Jacob's father, Isaac: "Then Jacob awoke from his sleep and said, 'Surely the LORD is in this place, and I did not know it.'" (Genesis 28:16). How is it possible to not know The Presence of God? Actually, it's not difficult at all: skip the reading-studying-meditating of/on God's Word, avoid quiet times of listening and praying, neglect the worship-fellowship-service among the assembling of God's People (The Church). Oh, yeah, missing The Presence is easy - just do nothing to encourage it! In contrast, "Draw near to God, and He will draw near to you." (James 4:8). If you find yourself spiritually parched, perhaps what is missing is ... The Presence. He alone refreshes, renews and sustains the spirit of man. Draw near to Him and drink deeply.

Choose Wisely

Don't you remember when you had limited choices? I've often wondered why my Mama chose a particular brand and kind of flour and cornmeal; well, I concluded she didn't have much of a choice! Just like we choose the activities in which to engage during the day, we also choose how we will feed and nourish our spirit. The Apostle John makes a seriously profound and essential statement, "God is spirit, and those who worship Him must worship in spirit and truth." (John 4:24). God is a Spirit - not a he or a she as many today want to characterize Him; the Greek word, "pneuma," is a neuter noun. Hence, created in the very Image of God, the spirit of man is key to life! Whether intentional or unintentional, we nourish the spiritual nature on a regular basis. The psalmist of Chapter 91 begins with an implied choice: "He who dwells in the shelter of The Most High will abide in the shadow of The Almighty." (Psalm 91:1). Certain days I choose to stay home - it's my choice to remain there. In the same way, it is the one who chooses to dwell or remain in The Presence of The Father who will greatly know the benefits of doing so. Safe, secure, protected, it is there the Believer's heart-soul-mind ... yes, spirit ... is fed. We have many choices how and what we feed our physical bodies; more importantly, however, is how and what we feed the spirit. Choose wisely!

Rest for the Weary

Among the most gentle and easygoing of dogs is the blood hound. Often portrayed lazing on a porch, it's just not true: blood hounds need lots of open space for their love to ramble. They are generally regarded as one of the best trackers of things and people because of their ability to follow a scent for miles and miles. The power of Satan to terrorize us should never be miscalculated. Peter gave us ample warning: "Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil walks about like a roaring lion, seeking whom he may devour." (1 Peter 5:8). Like that hound, Satan picks up the "scent" of a weakness in our spirit and "dogs" us relentlessly! I admit to the frequent struggle with a troubled and discouraged spirit, and the struggle is tiresome. Like the psalmist I can say all-day-long, "God is my refuge and my fortress" (Psalm 91:2), but unless I surrender to His care and keeping, it matters little what I say. There is sustaining relief from hell's notorious hound: "He who dwells in the shelter of the Most High will remain secure and rest in the shadow of The Almighty [Whose power no enemy can withstand]." (Psalm 91:1). Remaining sheltered and secured is no easy task but the rewarding freedom there in The Shadow of The Most High is enough. Interestingly, the blood hound has a very short life-span; so does the spiritual doggin' of the evil one. God's Shadow - there, is rest for the weary.

Highest Expectation

Perhaps some of life's greatest disappointments come from things or people in which or whom we have the greatest expectation. David wrote, "For God alone, O my soul, wait in silence for my expectation is from Him." (Psalm 62:5). Whenever we seek advice from someone who relies solely on his or her own intellect or experience, it [really] is a hit-or-miss. There's an old saying that rings true: "Fool me once, shame on you; fool me twice, shame on me." God is completely trustworthy! His Wisdom is without fail. "For all the promises of God in Him [Jesus] are Yes, and in Him Amen, to the glory of God through us." (2 Corinthians 1:20). We rightly and with absolute assurance conclude our prayers, "In Jesus' Name" ... Yes! Amen! So be it, Lord! Do not lower your expectation; rather, raise your standard: ask in The Name above all Names and know He is THE highest expectation.

Vessel of Honor

My best guess is that no one wants to eat from or with something that isn't clean. I proclaim Mister Bill to be The Inspector General when it comes to inspecting eating utensil. It's really best to just let him pick out his own fork or spoon! God calls all those who claim to be His to be pure and holy; not perfect, but clean and honorable for His good works. "If anyone cleanses himself from what is dishonorable, he will be a vessel for honorable use, set apart as holy, useful to the master of the house, ready for every good work." (2 Timothy 2:21). Oh, how we have tarnished the Name of Jesus by ministering with unprepared hearts. "The Lord knows those who are His, and 'Let everyone who names the name of the Lord depart from iniquity.'" (V.19). You see, cleanliness isn't NEXT to Godliness - no! cleanliness IS Godliness. Upon further inspection, can we say we are genuinely clean, an honorable vessel, prepared and suitable for God's good work? May we ever be so.

Read What Is Written

Have you ever been mis-quoted or had your words twisted into something you did not say or mean? I suppose it's true that "silence is seldom misquoted." Although we deserved Him to be, I'm so glad God wasn't silent after man sinned. God not only spoke to man after the fall, He carefully chose men to write down His words. "It is written" appears 311 times in Scripture. Jesus said, "Heaven and earth will pass away, but My words will not pass away." (Matthew 24:35). How wonderful God's words are written down ... that is, written down in order that we should read them! It's most unfortunate, however, many Believers don't read God's words; further troubling is the fact that God's words have been twisted into something God never said. Did you know those who handle money spend time training to recognize both real and counterfeit money? Interestingly, they don't study the counterfeit, the fake bills; no, they carefully study the real, the authentic tender. In the same way, if we do not know The Truth as God delivered it to His chosen writers, we will never identify what is counterfeit, what is untrue. Do you faithfully read God's Word? If not, I suggest you're a prime target for Satan's lies, deceit and the twisted truth. Only you can change that: ask God for the grace you need to love Him so intensely you want to read what He has written. Wanna know truth? Read what is written!

Truth For Life

Upon returning from an extended stay on the Island, there was lots of mail to sort through. One particular envelope caught my eye; in clear and legible handwriting, it was personally address to me. The slight eagerness with which I opened the letter soon disappeared as I read words that well ... they weren't quite right. In case you haven't noticed, everything we hear-read-watch isn't trustworthy. While we may enjoy "free speech," not all free speech leads to freedom! John tells of a dispute among some men about who Jesus was; Jesus said, "He Who sent Me is trustworthy, and what I have heard from Him I tell the world ... If you hold to My teaching, you are really My disciples. Then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free." (John 8:26, 31-32). We all "hold to" some form of truth, and that truth influences-shapes our lives. For sure, Believers should hold God's Word as the guiding Truth. Now, my letter invited me to a website where "you will find answers to life's big questions and it will provide additional comfort and hope for a wonderful future." It sounded so kind and inviting, however, the words of quoted Scripture nor the recommended website were truthful according to God's Word. Believers, take note: only when we are faithful to the genuine teachings of Jesus, will we recognize (perceive, discern) the lies of Satan. Are you reading-studying-memorizing The Truth? It's truly the only way you'll ever detect a lie! Don't be deceived - read The Bible and make It the Truth you live by!

Spread His Joy

There's much to be said for simplicity! Whether planning, designing, or explaining, it’s just generally a good idea to keep things simple. Believers rest in The Truth that God is in control -- sovereign in all things. God’s opening statement in the lengthy discourse with Job affirms this: "Then the Lord answered Job out of the whirlwind and said: Who is this that darkens counsel by words without knowledge? Dress for action like a man; I will question you, and you make it known to Me." (Job 38:1-3). In the chapters that follow, God lays out how Awesome and Mighty He is! Much like Job's circumstances, the routines of life [the mundane] often cause us to wonder at the purpose of our lives. In a Roman prison where one day doesn't differ from the next, the Apostle Paul gives great insight into the life purpose for Believers: “I am hard pressed between the two ... to depart and be with Christ, for that is far better. But to remain in the flesh is more necessary on your account ... I know that I will remain and continue with you all, for your progress and joy in the faith ..." (Philippians 1:23-26). Don’t miss these words for clarity of purpose – for your progress and joy in the faith. Isn't it amazing how God uses an email, a card, a text, a phone call, a visit to refresh us and encourage us to persevere, to keep-on-keeping-on! Paul's grasp of this simple and profound purpose should cause us to see the opportunities in each new day regardless – even in spite of – our circumstances. Simplicity is good in many things including a clear daily purpose. If each day we lift or strengthen the heart of just one person, share a burden, pray with and for another, the day has not been lost! Keep your to-do list simple and eternally significant today – SIMPLY spread His joy!

Purposed

Do you ever consider why we do certain things?  Sometimes the purpose is family or cultural tradition, which is tough to break from when a newer-quicker-easier method comes along. Countless time and media have been devoted to helping us know our own purpose in this life. None, however give us clearer insight than what we learn from Scripture. Through the Apostle Peter, God said we are "chosen ... according to the foreknowledge of God the Father by the sanctifying work of The Spirit to obey Jesus Christ." (1 Peter 1:1-2). In whatever circumstance of life - socially, professional, recreationally, administratively, politically, spiritually - we are to obey Jesus. Obey Him at home, at work, at the ballfield, in the restaurant, in the car, when we're shopping, in the quiet times, in the busy times, when we're in a crowd or when we're alone, eve whether we feel like it or not. There is no exception of time-place-feeling when we are exempt from what we've been chosen [by God] to do - obey His commands. For Believesr (those spiritually born-again) it isn't a matter of following a list of Godly teachings; no! obedience flows out of a heart that delights in God Himself through a personal relationship with Jesus Christ. Does your heart know its appointed purpose? No other life-purpose fulfills and satisfies! Know Christ and rejoice you've been chosen for His purpose!

Your Appointment

Ever so often I have a must-do appointment with my hair stylist. She can take one look at my hair and eyebrows and know exactly what must be done. God knows all about me, and its His intent to give and do what is His Best for me. As transforming as my stylist can be - for which I am most grateful - what she does cannot compare to how God transforms me by the power of The Holy Spirit and through His Word. What a holy and effective Duo the Word of God and The Holy Spirit is to my ever-languishing soul. "Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect." (Romans 12:2). Although my hair needs a transformation only periodically, my heart needs it daily - even many times each day. Why is this so important to God's children? Because what The Father wants most - His desired outcome - is that each one of His children be holy as He is holy. This is the only way we can enjoy His Presence in our lives, and the only way those around us will see and know what He is like. Just like the best thing I can do for my hair stylist is keep my hair looking good, so it is for Believers [by The Spirit and The Word] make Christ beautiful to others. God wants to do a transforming work in you - keep your appointment with Him today!

Listen and Hear

Although I had suggested it for several years, it wasn't until Ella - Grand #1 - started talking Mr. Bill decided to get hearing aids. Suddenly, there were things he wanted to hear! The same could be said of Believers' spiritual hearing. God's people, at the foot of Mt Sinai, said to Moses, "Speak to us yourself and we will listen, but let not God speak to us." (Exodus 20:19). Now, I love hearing my pastor preach, Godly leaders teach, and reading biblically sound books but there's nothing like hearing The Holy Spirit speak directly to me! Perhaps many of us resemble Old Testament priest Eli whose spiritual hearing had grown weak: only after three times of young Samuel's hearing a voice did Eli discern the voice to be God's (1 Samuel 3:8). The cold hard truth is most of us are not listening nor are we nurturing a relationship with The Father that welcomes the sound of His voice. John wrote of God speaking, "My sheep hear My voice" (10:27) and "Whoever is of God hears the words of God" (8:47). It should be a natural response to listen for and hear from The One Who "inclines His ear to me" (Psalm 116:1). Know this: The Father has much to say, and oh how He longs for us to hear Him. Listen, and hear God.

Way of Mercy

We all make mistakes, even make a mess of things and "oops" doesn't always fix things. The reality is we all must face judgments and consequences of our own mistakes and bad choices. This is what makes mercy so sweet! "Mercy triumphs over judgment." (James 2:13). To those who have never said "yes" to God's offer of mercy and forgiveness, there should be no expectation of mercy; among Believers, however, we've been given a mandate: "Be merciful, even as your Father is merciful." (Luke 6:36). In the absence of kindness, it is indeed easier to withhold mercy and nurture bitterness. This is not The Father's way. When offended - inevitably, we will be - what if our eyes are mirrors of mercy, reflecting The Father's patience and longsuffering nature toward us in our own sinfulness? Consider The Father's eyes and hands of mercy, and mercy be our way.

What Do You Say?

Personal safety is a high priority these days. Whether proactive or reactive, we seem to carefully consider how to keep ourselves safe. In Psalm 91, the psalmist describes God's sovereign and ongoing protection from undisclosed yet ever-present dangers. "I will say to the LORD, 'My refuge and my fortress, my God, in Whom I trust!' (Psalm 91:2). Particularly noteworthy in this hymn of trust is the Believer's source of security and protection - it's not inanimate objects of our choosing; rather, it is The Person of God Himself. "It is He Who delivers  you (V.3) ... "His faithfulness is a shield" (V.4) ... "the LORD, my refuge" (V.9) ... "The Most High, your dwelling place" (V.9). Those who trust God discern it is God's Presence which delivers peace and hope in times of uncertainty and restlessness. By an act of his own will, the psalmist writes, "I will say ... LORD, 'My refuge and my fortress.'" (V.2). What then do we say? 

No Shortcut

Shortcuts are a popular way of getting from Point A to Point B in less time. Generally, I'm not a a fan of shortcuts because I've been lost more times than not ... taking a shortcut. Much like the savory flavor of a slow-cooked ham, spiritual maturity doesn't come by taking shortcuts. "Like newborn babies [you should] long for the pure milk of the Word, so that by It you may be nurtured and grow in respect to Salvation." (1 Peter 2:2). The purpose of studying God's Word isn't just to learn but to become mature in your faith. Earning a secular degree in any subject requires years of faithfully attending class, studying, testing, training and application; in the same way Believers grow their faith. The difference in secular and spiritual education, however, is The Holy Spirit teaches, imparting The Truth of God's Word into the very heart and soul of the Believer. "For the Word of God is living and active, sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing to the division of soul and of spirit, of joints and of marrow, and discerning the thoughts and intentions of the heart." (Hebrews 4:12). Oft times to my horror, Mister Bill takes a shortcut. Know this: there is no shortcut from spiritual milk to solid food! I encourage you to keep loving the milk as you move from spiritual infancy to maturity. No shortcuts!

Ambassador's Call

Some of my closest friends are those who share common lifestyles and principles: even before we speak, we can predict the words; even when we don't speak, we know one another's heart. It is common for new leaders to appoint new team members who share their own ideologies. The Apostle Paul, however, writes of one settled and unified ministry for Believers: "We are ambassadors for Christ, God making His appeal through us. We implore you on behalf of Christ, be reconciled to God." (2 Corinthians 5:20-21). Oh, how easily we become side-tracked and side-lined from what we are saved to do! Oh, how quickly we forget the call upon us. To guide us back to and rightly steer us, Paul reminds The Redeemed: "For the love of Christ controls us, because we have concluded this: that One has died for all ... He died for all that those who live might no longer live for themselves but for Him Who for their sake died and was raised." (V.14-15). Truly, there is one purpose for which Believers are called - "we persuade others" unto God's Salvation. This is what an ambassador does - it's what we do: that is, represent and persuade. No doubt, we all need reminding this is the task to which God has called every Believer. What kind of ambassador are you?

Rags to Riches

Who doesn't love a good rags-to-riches story?  There's something mesmerizing about the person who rises above his or her circumstances.  There's a spiritual ascent for the Believer who supersedes this world's idea of rich. In 1 Corinthians 4:13, Paul reminds those who are faithful to Christ and His principles "have become like the scum of the world, the dregs of all things." Jesus Himself warned us: "you will be hated by everyone because of Me" (Matthew 10:22); and, "if the world hates you, you know that it hated Me before it hated you." (John 15:18). Such times have existed throughout history, and certainly that time is now; we must not think it strange (1 Peter 4:12). What Believer should consider strange, however, is if they find themselves comfortably favored by the world rather than hated and opposed. If Paul's words, "we have been made as the filth of the world," do not seem an exaggeration to you, perhaps you are too cautious and concerned about yourself instead of Christ in you. Ultimately, we are friends with the world or with God - we cannot be both: "Friendship with the world is enmity with God." (James 4:4). I suggest it's an appropriate time and a wise Believers consider our standing with the world: friend or foe. To be hated by the world is to be rich in God's eyes. Now, that's a beautiful rags-to-riches story!

Most Favored Place

 Home being the first, how blessed Mister Bill and I are to have a second favorite place to which we retreat often. Of all its loved attributes, none compare to The Place of which the psalmist writes: "He who dwells in the shelter of the Most High will abide in the shadow of the Almighty." (Psalm 91:1). The mere sound of dwelling in God's Shelter and Shadow is inviting. The key principle, however, must not be overlooked: those who put their trust in The Most High God are those who are living close [in relationship] to Him. Somehow, there are many Believers who feel they can boast confidently of God's Shelter and Shadow yet live at arm's length from Him. It just doesn't work that way; The Almighty, The Most High God offers protection and rest only to those who are in intimate fellowship with Him, which comes through obedience to Him. Much like Mister Bill and I seek-out our favorite place to enjoy its wonders, so must we seek God to truly know His Shelter and Shadow; they are the sweet benefits of living close to Him. Truly, it is the most favored of all places to be!

Here I Am

Do you know what happens when you lose Internet access? For one, MWB is interrupted. If all goes well, I’ll be back in the blogging business by today’s end. See you soon! Smiles, Beverly