Good Housekeeping

May you find this "borrowed blessing" challenging and may it inspire you to ask God to do some spiritual housekeeping in your heart.

Lord, it is not the dirt and clutter in plain sight that nag at me
It's that hidden dirt ... you know, behind the refrigerator, in the closets, under the bed
Dirt that no one sees or knows about but me ... It's the same way with my life, God
It's those hidden sins that I can't keep up with
Those petty little grievances, the grudges, the resentments
The unspoken harsh feelings, the superior attitudes
Thoughts and feelings that no one else knows about but me ... And You, God
Help me, Father, to clean my heart as I would my home
Take away all dust and cobwebs of pride, ill feelings and prejudice
The dirt behind my refrigerator will never hurt anyone ... The dirt in my heart will

Dance Partner

Oh, how we love our furry friends. Mine and Mister Bill's favorite furry barks for treats at our back door! An avid outdoors guy, Timothy Treadwell lived among, studied, and videotaped Alaskan grizzlies. He often gave them names and even got close enough to touch them on occasion. He even described the bears as “mostly harmless.”  In October 2003, the bodies of Treadwell and his girlfriend were found fatally mauled in a bear attack.  This tragedy reveals a profound lesson: wild animals are ... wild animals. Why do we presume we can waltz with sin and be untouched by it? I suggest we have forgotten what sin is: "Sin is lawlessness [ignoring God's law by action or neglect or by tolerating wrongdoing]" (1 John 3:4, AMP). Furthermore, “to one who knows the right thing to do and does not do it, to him it is sin” (James 4:17). We like to think of ourselves as kind, respectful, law-abiding people, but let us never forget our truest nature: there is none righteous, no not one (Romans 3:10). It's the fallen and depraved reality of man’s heart, a nature that demands a Savior; Jesus, Who forgives, rescues and delivers us from sin and death “in Christ Jesus our Lord.” (Romans 6:23). Even our furry friends get into trouble doing what comes natural to them. Because of Christ, His children do not have to act naturally, behaving according to our sinful nature.  Don’t be foolish: sin is a terrible partner; wisely choose your ... dance partner.

Right Now

Early elementary years, I began piano lessons, which continued for the next ten to twelve years. That was a lot of lessons, hours practicing scales, not to mention dreaded recitals. I'm not sure what the end-game was, that is, for what I was preparing. Jesus said, "If you love Me, you will keep My commandments" (John 14:15) then Peter refers to us as "obedient children" (1 Peter 1:14, ESV). For sure, obedience to God matters greatly and it pleases Him; but, aside from hearing His "well done" one day, are we expecting our obedience to lead us to some great success? As true followers of Jesus, we should see God's purpose being fulfilled in daily faithful obedience - he's using our obedience now in the process of making us holy. "For it is God Who works in you, both to will and to work for His good pleasure." (Philippians 2:13, ESV). Like my musical training, there were lots of opportunities along the way, not just an anticipated time of success. It's much the same way in our spiritual lives: we're not training for some grand end - God is working in and through us in the daily. Oswald Chambers writes, "If I can stay calm and unperplexed in the middle of turmoil, I’ve already reached the end of God’s purpose. ... If we have a further goal in view, we are not paying enough attention to the present." I suspect there's at least one circumstance in your life right now that God simply wants your obedience, and that obedience will fulfill His purpose for the moment. God's purpose is before you, before me ... right now.

Beautiful Language

As best I can determine, the way to say "take that back" in Spanish is "retirar eso" - it's the English equivalent to "withdraw that." No matter what the language, you can't take-back or withdraw words that have been spoken. God's Word to us is [as we in the South say] slap-full of wisdom about the tongue: Proverbs 18:21 - "Death and life are in the power of the tongue, and those who love it will eat its fruits ... Proverbs 21:23 - "Whoever keeps his mouth and his tongue keeps himself out of trouble" ... James 3:8 - "No human being can tame the tongue. It is a restless evil, full of deadly poison." Something amazing about God's nature is even when words from a foolish untamed tongue strike us, He guides the hurting heart into gentle healing. "Do not take to heart all the things that people say, lest you hear your servant cursing you. Your heart knows that many times you yourself have cursed others." (Ecclesiastes 7:21-22, ESV). Those barbs that bury themselves in the heart, God uses to discipline and instruct with tender reminders of our own misspoken words. Oh, let's not be part of that take-that-back crowd; rather, pray with the prayer of Psalm 1413, "Set a guard, O Lord, over my mouth; keep watch over the door of my lips!" When He guards our lips, it's a ... beautiful language!

Attitude of Gratitude

So, how's that attitude of gratitude going? Perhaps it's ... going as in falling-away in the urgencies, drowned-out by all the noise of life. In First Chronicles we get a glimpse of a humbled King David; following [quite possibly] his greatest sin against God - the taking of a census in Israel, he prayed: "Please let me fall into the hand of the LORD, for His mercies are very great" (1 Chronicles 21:13, NASB). While God's judgment cannot be ignored and surely comes to us in various ways, His mercy is part of who He is. J. Vernon McGee says God's mercy isn't "just a momentary happy disposition ... not some development in His character." Do you realize how grateful we should be God is merciful? Think about it: why didn't God just be-done with us while we slept last night, or simply put an end to the whole lot of us grumbling-complaining-ungrateful people! "My soul continually remembers it and is bowed down within me. But this I call to mind, and therefore I have hope: The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases; His mercies never come to an end; they are new every morning; great is Your faithfulness." (Lamentations 3:20-23, ESV). Just stop and let your soul catch-up with the the truth of the never-ceasing mercy of The Father. His love is tender towards those who love and fear Him, and His mercy is great. Let us live-on in an ever-increasing ... attitude of gratitude.

Grateful

If you could pick one over-riding attitude in which to live each day, what would it be? Joy - Peace - Contentment - Kindness - Goodness ... all tremendous and worthy attitudes (and fruit of The Spirit, I might add). I contemplated this myself and concluded I choose ... gratitude. Almost twenty years ago, my immediate family faced cancer. It was moment-stopping and  sobering; mind and emotions jumped into hyper-drive. Of all the goings-on of life, that moment distinctly drew us to consider most important things. Unwashed dishes, dirty laundry, meetings, appointments, unfinished projects ... nah. "Come now, you who say, 'Today or tomorrow we will go to such and such a city, and spend a year there and engage in business and make a profit.' Yet you do not know what your life will be like tomorrow. You are just a vapor that appears for a little while and then vanishes away. Instead, you ought to say, 'If the Lord wills, we will live and also do this or that.' But as it is, you boast in your arrogance; all such boasting is evil.." (James 4:13-16, NASB). How foolish that we boast in that which we do not possess nor control! As Believers, we are to trust God, to "walk by faith and not by sight" (2 Corinthians 5:7). Each day a gift from God, resting and trusting Him for it - every heartbeat, every breath, every blink of the eye! God is present and active in the physical realm of our days but ultimately does His greatest work in the spiritual. Here we are, some 230 months later, still celebrating life with Mister Bill. Yes, I am ... grateful.

Home Alone

Years ago, as I recall it was an "altogether" day! Yes, that day I seemed to have it ... altogether. I know you're anxious to hear the secret - I was ... home alone! Jesus, of course, is the Son of God, perfect and holy in every way, but He had it "altogether." In Luke 4 we read that Jesus went into the wilderness and when He returned, He did so "in the power of the Spirit" to begin His ministry. (Luke 4:14) Do you ever feel like you or your life is coming apart?From personal experience, I've learned that fall-apart feeling comes when I'm not leaning-in toward Christ. To the Believer (the born-again child of God), the Holy Spirit is ours to empower us in all the circumstances of our lives; when we aren't in harmony with The Spirit, we grow weary and feel overwhelmed with life. Did you know that when Canadian geese fly in formation, they fly seventy percent faster ... 70%! There is great power in unity whether
at home, at work, at play ... whatever the circumstance. When we are submitted to the Power of Christ, relying-on and resting in Him, there is genuine harmony and peace within us. Being
fully submitted means we have emptied ourselves of that I-can-do-this attitude and allow Christ to do what He has promised to do: I can do all things through Christ Who strengthens me (Philippians 4:13). I encourage you to ask for that strength which will be yours when Christ within your heart is ... home alone.

Rightful Dwelling Place

Finally, I got my patio! Since giving up my beloved porches at our former house, I've longed for a lingering place. Now, I just have to wait for cooler weather! The prophet Isaiah wrote: "This is what the LORD says, 'Heaven is My throne and the earth is My footstool. Where, then, is a house that you could build to Me? And where will My resting place be? For all these things My hand has made, so all these things came into being [by and for Me].' declares the LORD." (Isaiah 66:1-2a, AMP). Whether it be careers, relationships, notoriety ... or patios, they in no way resemble where God longs to dwell: "But to this one I will look [graciously], to him who is humble and contrite in spirit, and who [reverently] trembles at My word and honors My commands." (Isaiah 66:2b, AMP). How is it we just don't get it - that The Creator of heaven and earth, Almighty God Who is above and beyond and transcends all things, simply wants to make His home in the hearts of the humbled hearts of men. It is unimaginable, unfathomable, incredible, amazing and awesome all at the same time! Jesus said, "Blessed are the meek, for they shall inherit the earth" (Matthew 5:5, ESV) ... yes, the earth of which He says is His and all that is in it (Psalm 24:1). Oh yes, I plan to enjoy that patio when summer heat subsides and autumn leaves begin to fall. May God Eternal take joy right now and evermore in my humble heart - His ... rightful dwelling place.

Ever-Increasing Heart

Without a doubt, the older-me requires more effort to do the otherwise effortless things of the past. An oft spoken phrase of my Dad's was: "growing old isn't for sissies." There is one thing [of mine], however, that with tender attention is ever increasing - "my heart is in Thy hands without reserve" (The Valley of Vision). Oh, how regrettably foolish I've given so little time and care to it! Nonetheless, God - Who is rich in mercy and love (Ephesians 2:4) - has "created it, redeemed it, renewed it, captured it, conquered it." You see, that which we tend to think little of, neglect and ignore, The Father weighs and attends: He says, "I will give you a new heart, and a new spirit I will put within you. And I will remove the heart of stone from your flesh and give you a heart of flesh." (Ezekiel 36:26, ESV). Too many Believers have trusted Jesus for God's justification (salvation) then failed to trust Him for their sanctification (growing in holiness). "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, ESV). Do not miss this: the living, sharp, piercing, discerning work of God's Word is aimed directly at the heart of those who genuinely love the Lord! No matter what we do nor time we invest, our bodies are ever diminishing; in contrast, what we do and time we invest in our hearts, God is growing hearts like His own. The psalmist said, "with my whole heart I seek You" (Psalm 119:10, ESV). That is a commitment toward an ... ever-increasing heart!

No Fleas

Have you ever heard this; “hang with the dogs and you’ll get fleas”?  It's something I’ve heard
most of my life, mostly from those older and wiser than me.  Well, there’s truth in the
statement.  When the psalmist wrote Psalm 1:1 - “Blessed is the man who walks not in the counsel of the wicked, nor stands in the way of sinners, nor sits in the seat of scoffers” - he may have had dogs and fleas in mind.  The wicked, sinners, and scoffers  refer to those people Believers should avoid. Note the downward spiral of human behavior: we stop, we stand, we sit. First, we listen to and embrace Satan's lies; then, we veer-off and leave the Godly path; finally, we become sit and become comfortable even join the mocking chime against God and His Truth. Of course, not one of us can completely avoid the ungodly – and that’s not what Scripture teaches, Jesus didn’t – but we certainly must be careful who we run with, making sure we give no opportunity for Satan in our lives.  The blessed man delights “in the law of the LORD, and on His law he meditates day and night.” (Psalm 1:2). It’s the only way to avoid fleas!

Keep Looking Up

Do you remember "back in the day" when we looked-up things: phone number in a phone book, highways and roads on an atlas, book locations in a card catalog? Oh my, how things have ... progressed? The psalmist writes, "I lift up my eyes to the hills. From where does my help come?" (Psalm 121:1, ESV). Of course, the hills themselves offered no help although the Jewish traveler - on his way to Jerusalem (Mount Zion) - certainly had to look up. Why? Because whether you approached Jerusalem from north, south, east or west, your eyes looked up to the city as it towers over all its surrounding! The traveler answers his own question: "My help comes from the LORD, Who makes heaven and earth" (V.2). The rest of this psalm tells us the LORD our Help guards our steps, He neither slumbers nor sleeps, He is our shade both day and night, all our our goings-in and goings-out are kept by Him forevermore. The traveler's upward look reminds us as we look to Jesus. A Stone has been laid in Zion, "a chosen and precious Cornerstone, and the one who trusts in Him will never be put to shame”(1 Peter 2:6). We [too] are travelers, on our way to the City of God where one day we will find complete and perfect peace and rest. Until that day, we Saints of God will look to The Chosen and Precious Stone - Jesus, our Help! Keep looking up!

Celebrated Debt

 It seems most of our adult lives we work toward the goal of having as little debt as possible or [preferably] no debt at all. If we actually reach that goal, it's always cause for celebration! In all his writings, the apostle Paul exalted (made big of) the Gospel of Jesus Christ. We see this as he describes himself, "a bond-servant of Christ Jesus, called as an apostle, set apart for the gospel of God" (Romans 1:1, NASB). Paul made it clear he was bound in service to Jesus as well as impervious (indifferent, unaffected) by anything except to preach the Gospel through his life. "I am under obligation both to Greeks and to barbarians, both to the wise and to the foolish." (Romans 1:14, ESV). Paul's saw his obligation as nothing less than an indebtedness! While earthly debt tends to weigh us down, the indebtedness to what Jesus has done for us - His finished work on the cross and the victory of the tomb - lifts us to heights of a celebratory Spirit-walk: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control (Galatians 5:21-22). Our eternal indebtedness is indeed a ... celebrated debt.

Not Your Duty

The younger-me was on my high school's track team; not the fastest runner, I ran endurance races including the 880 (half-mile). I remember those days but the memory mostly makes me want to catch my breath! Jesus said, "I tell you not to resist an evil person. But whoever slaps you on your right cheek, turn the other to him also." (Matthew 5:39, NKJV). The very idea of such a humiliating response seems absurd by most standards. Oswald Chambers reminds us to refuse such an act of humiliation, "you cannot imitate the nature of Jesus." As good, responsible citizens of our communities, we determine to do what is our duty. Jesus, however, commands us to do that which is ... not our duty! I dare say all of us have suffered some form of injustice, mistreatment and cruelty. Instinctively, we want to defend our honor yet [in reality] it is "the Lord's honor that is at stake" (Chambers). The last part of that endurance race was brutal - breath laborious; oh, how many times I just wanted to stop to catch my breath - much like life. Those slaps are often rough and unexpected. Albeit, "let us also lay aside every weight, and sin which clings so closely, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us" (Hebrews 12:1). Let's face it: this is a slap-happy world. Like Jesus, with grace and humility, let us do that which is ... not our duty!

Eat That Elephant

It's been said the way you "eat an elephant" is "one bite at a time." This, of course, is a humorous metaphor for tackling a large and [seemingly] overwhelming task. One of my favorite verses in all of Scripture contains a phrase so relevant for today: "For Ezra had set his heart to study the law of the LORD and to practice it, and to teach His statutes and ordinances in Israel." (Ezra 7:10, NASB). Can't you hear the determination as Ezra "set his heart!" One translation says Ezra "firmly resolved." I suggest there are few things in the Believers' spiritual lives that are rightly described as a firm resolution. Why do you suppose? Paul gives us the answer: "For we know that the Law is spiritual, but I am of flesh, sold into bondage to sin. For what I am doing, I do not understand; for I am not practicing what I would like to do, but I am doing the very thing I hate." (Romans 7:14-15, NASB). Quite frankly, the old pull-yourself-up-by-the-bootstrap method of living an obedient life unto Christ - well, it just doesn't work! What Paul describes in this passage is the ongoing conflict between two natures: the old [sinful] nature and the new [righteous] nature. And, make no mistake: it is serious conflict! The good and refreshing news goes like this: "Who will set me free from the body of this death? Thanks be to God through Jesus Christ our Lord!" (V.24). It is Jesus Christ Who gives us power and strength to overcome the old nature, simultaneously freeing us to live unto obedience and righteousness. That's how Ezra did it, and that's how we do it! Whatever your "elephant" might be, he is one small thing compared to what we are in-and-because of Christ. Set your heart on Him and ... eat that elephant!

Your Purpose

It's safe to say no one wants a life without purpose! Even days when the calendar is clear, we find purpose in calm and leisure. Jesus lived a life of purpose - "to do the will of The Father" (John 5:30, ESV). And, what was the will of The Father? He sent His Son, "Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners" (1 Timothy 1:15, ESV). One of the greatest things we know about The Son is how He never lost His vision, His focus, His sense of purpose; He was never distracted from what He came to do. Unlike us, Jesus didn't allow weariness to overtake Him - Jesus refused the shortcuts and easy way out - Jesus kept His mind on eternal rather temporal things - Jesus rejected idleness - Jesus didn't run from trouble or unpleasant people ... you get the point. Have you ever considered how widespread or effective The Gospel would be if it depended on our commitment to live-it and speak-it to others? I suppose our oft willy-nilly, fleeting, casual, lukewarm commitment to share it would leave the next door neighbor, favorite cashier or waitress, co-worker, mom who sits in the bleachers with us ... well, they'd be pretty much on their own. By His life, Jesus gave us the example of living life with purpose; and, not just any purpose but the purpose of all purposes; that is, to bring sinners to Jesus by grace through faith - way of The Gospel. For the born-again, true followers and disciple of Jesus, that's ... your purpose.

Cause-of-Life

Several times I was sad to learn I had "out-lived" some of my favorite products! One particular product I discovered was so effective the company re-packaged it under a different name and, of course, at a substantially higher price! It's a tragic thing to out-live one's usefulness, which is what happened with King Saul: "So Saul died for his trespass which he committed against the LORD, because of the word of the LORD which he did not keep." (1 Chronicles 10:13, NASB). King Saul died a tragic death but the cause of his death was uncomplicated: quite simply, he didn't obey the Lord ... as commanded. This uncomplicated cause-of-death was by no means a new thing; does Adam and Eve come to mind? Actually, the name "Beverly" comes to my mind! Oh, how we love to do our own thing, go our own way, be our own king. Whatever name comes to mind, God's children are expected to honor God with obedience. Jesus said "if you love me, you will keep my commandments" (John 14:15, ESV). The older-me enjoys and appreciates simple and Jesus made His command simple and clear. The All-Knowing, All-Sufficient, Almighty Who loves us more than we'll ever know just wants us to love Him back with heart, soul and might (Deuteronomy 6:5). King Saul's end is tragic, his cause-of-death inexcusable. Why not avoid the way-of-Saul; rather, let our lives be well marked by obedience to and a personal relationship with Jesus. Such must be our ... cause-of-life!

How Are You Traveling?

The days of traveling with little ones, I remember the hope that they would sleep away many miles. My hopes usually didn't materialize! Throughout Scripture Believers are reminded this world is not our home, that our "citizenship is in heaven" (Philippians 3:20, ESV). We rightly conclude we are travelers, pilgrims, sojourners, temporary residents of this earth. Are you a good traveler? During travel with three boys, at times Mister Bill and I had to remind them to "tone it down" or suggest we play the "quiet game." I wonder how that fits the spiritual traveler today: is our travel marked with complaining, murmuring, impatience, anger, bitterness and such? Octavius Winslow suggests: "We think too faintly and too seldom of heaven." Faint and seldom thought of Believers' promised destination surely influences the attitude with which we travel. In contrast, those who live (walk) with The Spirit will be marked by His fruit: "love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control" (Galatians 5:22-23, NASB). Winslow offers this challenge to us-Saints as we pilgrim toward Heaven where God is: "Will you not stretch every nerve, endure every privation, and relinquish every weight, thus to reach this glorious city of God?" When the trip seemed endless to the boys, we reminded them of the fun that was coming; to be more faithful and obedient travelers, Believers must think more distinctly and more often of our eternal destination. How are you traveling?

Your Essay

As a general rule, it was Mama's job to proofread all essays. It didn't hurt at all that she was a writer and had a particular way with words! What if you were asked to write a composition on joy? Most of us might have to wait for the "perfect" day -- a calm day, void of frustrations and
aggravations ... date unknown. It's easy to find ourselves peddling furiously as if on a stationary bike: same chores, same scenery, same routine, and the word "joy" is just another word lacking real meaning. The Apostle Paul wrote his discourse on joy in the middle of horrible circumstances: confined to the look and smell of prison walls and shackled to a Roman guard. Although his letter to the church at Philippi could have been sprinkled with complaints, bitterness, and pessimism, it was not! One of the most profound passages of protruding joy is found in Philippians 4: "Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable -- if anything is excellent or praiseworthy -- think about such things ... And the God of peace will be with you." (Verses 8-9). Paul doesn't just give an essay on joy but outlines a pattern of thinking; his is a life absorbed and immersed in something far greater and more prevalent than momentary circumstances. What we see in Paul's words is a heart rendered fully to God through Christ Jesus; yes, a life committed to "shine like stars in the universe" as it holds out the word of life to others (Philippians 4:15-16). Perhaps our days of writing essays are behind us but ... are they? The life we live for Christ is being "proof-read" every day ... others are looking, watching closely for a glimpse of joy, gladness, peace, hope, contentment beyond the ordinary. What kind of essay are you living?

Celebrate Freedom!

John 8:36, ESV
So if the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed.

Stay in The Word
Back bloggin' Monday 07-08
Miles of Smiles, Beverly

It Fits

Do you remember the days at these retail store: selecting clothes from the rack then taking them to the fitting room? Oh my, how times have changed! The psalmist writes, "Sing for joy to ADONAI, you righteous. Praise is fitting for the upright." (Psalm 33:1, TLV). [Note: "Adonai" is the Hebrew name for God; translated "Lord" or "Lord Master."] One thing that never goes out-of-style or out-of-season, never becomes old or obsolete and that is giving praise and honor to God. Why then are so many church sanctuaries empty? I suggest God's people worship so little during the week, therefore, they worship Him little on The Lord's Day. Perhaps we've lost our wonder of God's Majesty and no longer rightly acknowledge it is He Who is sovereign over all things. The psalmist continues: "Let all the earth fear ADONAI. Let all the inhabitants of the world stand in awe of Him. For He spoke, and it came to be. He commanded, and it stood firm. ... The plan of ADONAI stands forever, the purposes of His heart from generation to generation. Blessed is the nation whose God is ADONAI, the people He chose for His own inheritance." (Psalm 33:8-9, 11-12, TLV). Don't miss His words - from generation to generation: confirmation of longevity, continuation, duration of life. Fitting ourselves for clothes looks different today but praise and reverence for God is always right, a good and proper look on God's people. It's always ... a good fit!

Order of the Day

 What's the order of the day? In other words, what's the plan for today? I suspect each of us have a plan that sets the priority for what we do, where we go, who we see, etc. In his book, Kisses of Calvary, Dr. Jack Hyles notes a significant lesson for Believers today: as Jesus was dying on a Roman cross, His life slowly being poured out for sinful man, He addressed His earthly mother, Mary: "When Jesus then saw His mother, and the disciple whom He loved standing nearby, He said to His mother, 'Woman, behold, your son!' Then He said to the disciple, 'Behold, your mother!' From that hour the disciple took her into his own household." (John 19:26-27, NASB). Even before He spoke of His own need - "I thirst" (V.28), Jesus attended to the need of others! What a key lesson for followers of Jesus: caring for the needs of others. Jesus is the supreme example of a servant! How can we legitimize selfish acts of idleness and indifference in light of what Jesus did throughout His ministry ... even in His own death! Hyles writes, "Other, Lord, yes others - Let this my motto be - Help me to live for others - That I may live like Thee." If we say we love Jesus, then the plan for what we do, where we go and who we see will be to put others first. That is the ... order of the day.

Expect Nothing Else

We are right to expect in a furniture store or groceries in a grocery store or shoes in a shoe store. Now, here's a good one: we should expect the Word of God in the House of God. Yes, God's Word should be front-and-center, His foundational truth read and taught and preached. In 2 Kings 22, for many generations the Word of God (the Book of the Law) had been missing then actually "found" by the high priest Hilkiah; he says, "I have found the book of the law in the house of the LORD.” (2 Kings 22:8, NASB). That Hebrew word "found" means "to happen upon." Imagine it - the Word of God lost ... lost in God's own house! Our initial reaction is "how appalling" that the Word of God was randomly discovered during a deep-cleaning of the temple! I suggest the same is true of many churches today: the Truth of the Living God has been lost on churches corporately because it has been lost in the hearts of God's people. When King Josiah heard the words of the book, he said: "great is the wrath of the LORD that burns against us, because our fathers have not listened to the words of this book, to do according to all that is written concerning us.” (V.13, NASB). What is to be our expectation of ourselves and the churches where we worship corporately? The answer is simple: hear preached and taught the Truth of God! Many pulpits across our nation have been busy but empty of the the deep riches of God's Word. For Christ's Body (The Church) to once again be rooted in Truth, The Word must once again be read and treasurer in my heart, in your heart, in the heart of every Child of God. We must ... expect nothing else!