“I will praise You as long as I live and in Your name, I will lift up my hands” (David, Psalm 63:4). “Hands” literally means the palm, emphasizing the EMPTY hand. “Be still and know I am God” (Psalm 46:10). “Be still” in the Hebrew conveys the imagery of letting something drop, cease striving with fisted hand. The hand that was once tight fisted, holding on to stuff—we let it go! Giving God room to move, to fill and to use. God won’t pry it out of our hand. He waits.
What is in our hand? It could be a literal holding of something we need to give up honoring our love walk with Jesus. Or metaphorically speaking those things we hold tight, whether a mindset, attitude, or heart condition. What do we need to let go of?
Another consideration of the hand; Remember God asked Moses “What is in your hand?” (Exodus 4) He was carrying his staff. Something of purpose, useful to Moses. God used it (many times). I love books, mostly geeky theological books, yet I appreciate a good CLEAN historical fiction novel as well. God can use those (in my hand). May we be aware of what we choose to put in our hand.
Not to mention (but I will) may we be aware of what we reach for. I love meaningful symbolism. I wear a small simple gold ring on my right pinky, I have for many years. Being right-handed, I wear it to remind myself to be aware of what I reach for. “He who has clean hands and a pure heart… will receive blessing from the LORD” (Psalm 24:4-5). A true challenge to integrity—integrity of motive and action.
The empty hand raised heavenward in prayer and worship symbolizing our surrender and longing to receive. Our raised hands with the sincere intent, indicating God is high above—over all we are, all we have, all we want. Also, our hands purposefully filled at times and willingly commissioned for God’s use.
What is in your hand?
In Him, DeDe (“Let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love & good deeds” – Hebrews 10:24).
Additional Note: The phrase kept coming to mind for me, “Caught red-handed.” “Red-handed” has its roots in the 15th Century in Scotland, when first referenced, meaning literally being caught with blood stains on your hands after a crime. Hm. So much spiritual application can be made.
I am reminded of a time a few years ago, (and resonating of recent) when walking into church rather tattered from the week that led to that day. I took my seat (5 rows back, first seat in). Placing my Bible next to me, the first thing that captured my attention was the quiet melody playing over the sound system. It was familiar and soothing, “As the deer panteth…” It was then, I felt the Lord impress on me, “Just breathe!” As the worship began, we all stood. I closed my eyes and did just that: Took a deep breath. Overwhelmed with His presence, I was reminded of—the breath of God.
How often do we find ourselves in survival mode? Barely making it. We feel our existence evaporating with each step forward. As the day goes on, we find ourselves unsuccessfully reaching and grabbing for anything solid. Thinking, “If I can just make it through this day. Through this season. To the next paycheck. See that person. BE that person. Get this done—that done. Clean this. Lose this—gain that.” BREATHE.
Just breathe.
In pondering this, (it may sound totally silly) I began looking at our breath and the ramifications of the lack of oxygen that takes place physically. How it affects us and how long it takes for a body to die. Not to be morbid or anything, but I feel it has quite a few similarities to our spiritual man.
In all the medical jargon, I found this quote: “A lack of oxygen to the heart muscle can cause heart attacks, and even if the individual survives the anoxic event (complete depletion of oxygen), there may be damage to the heart that proves deadly.” This doesn’t even speak of damage to the brain, where rationality is determined. There are also “quiet” symptoms that are attributed to a lack of oxygen as well: Depression, irritability, and irrational behavior. Anyone?
Just breathe!
Genesis 2:7 “And the LORD God formed man of the dust of the ground and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life and man became a living soul.” Our bodies were made of the dust, earth—biological. The soul was not made of the earth. So, earthly things cannot quench the hunger of the soul, (regardless of how much kale we eat) nor can the soul continue to survive. It is only the breath of God that feeds and nurtures the spiritual man! (Read that again). “It is ONLY the breath of God that feeds and nurtures the spiritual man!” It is divinely birthed and divinely maintained.
God is just BRILLIANT! He gave us life, we HAVE to go to Him to survive.
Like that of our physical body, so it is with our spiritual man. We NEED to breathe. Without a constant intake of God, the ramifications can prove damaging if not deadly. I believe we all have people in our lives that once were thriving-active, God-loving folks. But somehow, somewhere along their spiritual timeline—they stopped. They stopped reading God’s word. Stopped fellowshipping with other believers. Stopped believing God and stopped breathing God. Now, where are they?
How often do we seek things, people, position, and even events to satisfy our deep longing, and cravings? Without God’s breath and presence in our life, we are an empty dusty vessel. God initiated this for mankind, now we by invitation in turn seek that breath.
Just breathe.
Paul spoke to this in 2 Timothy, “Every part of Scripture is God-breathed and useful one way or another—showing us truth, exposing our rebellion, correcting our mistakes, training us to live God’s way. Through the Word we are put together and shaped up for the tasks God has for us.” (3:16-17 paraphrased, The Message). And the Pastor of Hebrews wrote, “For the word of God is alive and powerful. It is sharper than the sharpest two-edged sword, cutting between soul and spirit, between joint and marrow. It exposes our innermost thoughts and desires. Nothing in all creation is hidden from God” (4:12-13a NLT).
Just breathe.
Have we found we can’t seem to catch our spiritual breath? Are we low in emotion, irritable and even find we are being irrational or treating others unkindly? Are we apathetic about spiritual things? Or how about walking to the “frig of life” looking for something to satisfy us. If we are to survive, let alone THRIVE spiritually, we need God’s presence and His word to do so. When was the last time we quietly spent time with our God? Prayed. We invited His presence. We wholeheartedly pursued Him, His qualities? When was the last time we opened His word and really, truly, saw beyond the printed pages, and breathed Him in?
Just breathe.
In Him, DeDe (“Let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love & good deeds” – Hebrews 10:24).
Recently, I have been working through the Psalms in my devotion time. Each morning it is like cracking open a treasure filled piñata where beauty and devotion come tumbling out. God’s devotion to us is bright and brilliant. Like that of opening a curtain to a sunny new day. Each reading, I set myself next to the Psalmist. I follow along as the author dips their pen and leans in to scratch out (regardless of their troubled circumstances) heart filled praise and worship.
God’s character is flawless, radiant, and holy and cannot become separate from His being. Yet He “Stoops down to look on the heavens and the earth” (113:6). He watches over the righteous, fills hearts with great joy, makes us dwell in safety and searches our mind and heart. He brings us out, stills our storms and shelters us. He restores, guides, leads, heals, satisfies, and—renews. He redeems, comforts and rescues. (I can keep going, so I will). He is compassionate, gracious, and merciful. My God examines, forgives, and covers. He answers me and makes me GLAD!
I just love Psalms!
I, like the Psalmists, in turn—sing, praise, shout, believe, extol, and sacrifice. I cry out, take refuge, and give thanks. I set my heart, trust in Him and walk about in freedom.
I am learning through the Psalms. I do not seek God’s hand as to receive from Him, although so full of gratitude, I seek His face (27:8) to be close to Him. I do not keep quiet—I shout His name. I do not hang my head in discouragement—I hope in God!
When we find ourselves in a rather dark and gloomy mood, throw open the Psalms and watch His beauty tumble out.
Psalms.
In Him, DeDe (“Let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love & good deeds” – Hebrews 10:24).
Familiarity. It can be comforting, with a sense of security. I am reminded of a tremendous moment I experienced while working as a caregiver at a local assisted living home. Most of the folks were self-sufficient, enjoying the social aspect of the facility. While others struggled with high moments of joy only to be overrun with the anger and fear found in Alzheimer’s. While checking on a resident, it was pointed out to me that “Preacher” (whom I lovingly nicknamed, due to his lifelong profession) was wandering the halls. I went and found him. He stood quietly. His aged demeanor in the previous days was that of dignity, maturity, and strength.
But not today.
We had shared many conversations in the past, as he tenderly spoke sermons while we shuffled to the dining hall. However today, there was no sermon. Alzheimer’s had again reached out and pulled him in. Finding him in the hall near his apartment, I suggested we go in and sit down for a little while. Taking the key he held in his hand; I opened the door and led the way. Preacher took a seat on his sofa, his eyes wandering about the room as if looking for something, ANYTHING that defined this place his, his home, which defined—him.
Looking at me with longing, he told me that his house, just across the river, was a nice little place. Confusion taking over his continence, “But this morning when I woke up, I was here. All my furniture, my things, but this is not my little house.” Leaning forward, looking deep into my eyes, with bewilderment and agitation, he whispered, “What should I do?”
My eyes returning the intensity of his, I asked him, “Would you mind if we prayed, we’ll talk to God?” After a brief pause, it was THEN—there it was, and there HE was. Something sparked familiarity. He may not have recognized me, or the place, or the time, but GOD he knew! His eyes began to well up. I reached for his hand, he, in turn, enveloped mine in his. And I prayed. I prayed for peace, for clarity of mind, and for God’s all-consuming calmness to come on him. As my words quieted, he too, with confidence and strength that exceeds any I have known—prayed. When the final “Amen” was said, he grasped my hands a little tighter and generously thanked me.
As the Psalmist writes in Psalm 71, “In You, O LORD, I have taken refuge… Be my rock of refuge, to which I can go … for You have been my hope, O Sovereign LORD, my confidence since my youth” (vv 1,3,5). Preacher conditioned himself over the years to know his God. In Him, he knows who and where he belongs. God is familiar. Familiarity prompts. It prompts what has well-worn our thoughts, our actions, and becomes embedded in our mind and wall papers our heart.
There WILL be times when life gets unfamiliar—even fearful. When we too may wander the halls of this unfamiliar world. However, may we all be like Preacher, position and condition, and train to know our God. When His name is spoken, His word recited, and heavenly conversation suggested— something sparks in us.
Find Him familiar.
In Him, DeDe (“Let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love & good deeds” – Hebrews 10:24).
Earless chocolate bunnies and leftover hardboiled eggs in the frig (or out lost in the yard). Post-Easter. Now what? Do we rummage through the calendar for yet another holiday? Or plan an event to look forward to? What excites us about the future? What about—daily? May I be so bold in asking, what causes our inside to burn with excitement? What consumes our mind and emotions? What drives our behavior?
Post-Easter.
Jesus’ resurrection is AMAZING! WONDERFUL! DIVINE! REDEEMING! However, let’s not stop there. There is MORE! Let’s unpack this in brief summary. Stay with me, this is good!
Luke 24, it speaks of the women going to the tomb, once there they find two angels who notify them that Jesus was no longer there. He’s risen from the dead! The gals go back to tell the others. Peter, as energetic as he was, runs to go see and confirms.
Just following that, (v13) it says “Now that same day…”
The story continues to unfold. Two were walking to Emmaus, who unknown to them at first, encounter Jesus. They are flabbergasted that this Stranger didn’t seem to know what had just transpired in Jerusalem. Sharing their disappointment, “We had hoped that He was the one who was going to redeem Israel.” Going on they explained how Jesus’ body was not found. Verse 27, “Then He (Jesus) started at the beginning, with the Books of Moses, and went on through all the Prophets, pointing out everything in the Scriptures that referred to Him.” WOW! I’d love a one-on-one instant Bible study from the lips of the Master!
It wasn’t until Jesus was in their home, seated at their table, they accept the bread He offered, that their eyes were opened. It was here they had a revelation of Who He was. Could itbe that as Jesus reached forward, giving the bread, the sleeve of His garment slid up and they could see His nail scarred hand? The next exact moment, Jesus disappeared. I LOVE their response, “They said to each other, “Didn’t our hearts burn within us as He talked with us on the road and explained the Scriptures to us?” (v32)
Their hearts burning within them. I want spiritual heartburn! I want my soul, my mind, and thoughts—my passions, desires, and appetites to burn with Him and His Word! The word Luke chooses to use for “burning” is very colorful. It doesn’t mean to simply strike a match and light the kindling and watch it slowly give off heat. No, it RAVISHES through the wood and consumes it! Burn Lord! Burn away the stuff. May the flame burn pure and only for You.
Notice Jesus didn’t lay hands on them or put mud on their eyes for the revelation. He didn’t drift from the shore in a boat to speak to them. He didn’t even send them to the Priest for verification! He simply—walked with them. Walking and talking. Sharing and eating. The narrative says they got up at once and went back to Jerusalem testifying that Jesus has indeed RISEN.
For us? The next time we open the Bible for devotion and study time, let’s not daydream off to another place. Let’s do some focused walking and talking. Time with God! We just need to show up for the lesson. Pay attention, take notes, and ask questions—engage in conversation. This (THIS) is the event. The daily event we will look forward to. Like the other two disciples, He will show us how His written word pertains to HIM! For our growth and His glory!
Burn Lord, BURN within us!
Post-Easter.
In Him, DeDe (“Let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love & good deeds” – Hebrews 10:24).
Jesus is agonizingly set between two thieves. His feet and hands are nailed to a wooden cross. There at the foot of the cross, many mocked, some cried, and I am confident there were those—in complete silence. After the vinegar water was offered to Jesus, He said, “It is finished” (John 19:30). He then bowed His head and gave up His spirit.
“It is finished.” Those beautiful words in red. The word in Greek is amazing! Stand back and take in the whole Technicolor filled screen. I don’t think even Steven Spielberg with all his creative genius could convey the scene that was unfolding upon humanity. “It is finished” (Tetelestai) to bring to an end—to fulfill.1 “To complete something, not merely to end it, but to bring it to perfection or its destined goal.”2 What is done corresponds to what has been said, ordered or commanded. “Not My will, but Your will be done” (Jesus, Lk 22:42). Grammatically, it is in the “perfect tense.” Meaning, the action was completed in the past. Done. Yet with results continuing in the present. Basically, “This happened, and it is still in effect TODAY.” The gift that keeps on giving! Jesus’ physical work on earth was completed, and Scripture was fulfilled.
As Jesus said this, His blood flowing down His forehead, from His hands and His feet. His sacrifice now eliminates the debt owed by mankind (you and me). May we take careful notice, Jesus didn’t say “I am finished.” That would imply He is a mere man and dies defeated. What was finished was not Jesus’ life—it was everything keeping us from God.
Imagine with me, way back in ancient days, at the very beginning, you can almost hear the divine whisper as God sends Man & Woman out of the Garden, “It’s okay, I’ve got a plan.” He was going to complete the destined goal—personally.
“It is finished.”
Jesus is ultimately laid in the tomb. Where God spares NO detail. Looking back, instructions for building the Tabernacle and the divine furniture, “Make the atonement cover (Also known as the MERCY SEAT) of pure gold… Make two cherubim out of hammered gold at the ends of the cover. Make one cherub on one end and the second at the other end” (Ex. 25:17-19). HERE the blood sacrifice was placed by the Priest (Lev 16:14). Fast forward, John 20:12, Mary “saw two angels in white, sitting where the body of Jesus had lain, one at the head and one at the feet.” Because of blood—Jesus’ blood, God’s requirement of sinful man is now satisfied. HE is the Lamb of God. HE is our High Priest.
When Jesus rose from the dead and the stone was found rolled away it was NOT so He, the Son of God, Who walked on water, could get out. It was so mankind could get in! Get in and see “He isn’t here! He is risen from the dead, just as He said would happen. Come, see where His body was lying” (Matt 28:6).
Jesus rises from the dead triumphantly (Happy Easter) the bridge back to the Father is perfected. He engages and commissions the disciples. Returns to heaven to reign (But He’s coming back!) Does it end here for us? No. Now we the church with the authority given by Jesus Himself, as inspired and power given by Holy Spirit, we carry on with the red-letter commands, statements, and tender words.
Move over Easter Bunny, here comes the risen King! Let’s all stand to our feet! With loud shouts of praise, and enthusiastic applause! “It is Finished! Relationship offered; relationship restored.
When Jesus died and with His resurrection power, He successfully completed the work He came to do. The plan, the process of God. Now may we live each day as a red-letter day! Celebrating with a fresh revelation of our God!
Jesus said He’d rise again—He did. He said He’d come back again—He will.
In Him, DeDe (“Let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds“- Hebrews 10:24).
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1 Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance of the Bible; with Hebrew, Chaldee and Greek Dictionaries. James Strong.
2 Complete Word Study Dictionary – New Testament. Spiros Zodhiates, AMG Publishers.
“Six days before the Passover…” Mary took a pint of perfume and poured it on Jesus’ feet—the house filled with the fragrance (See below—the perfume, “myrrh”). The narrative describes the triumphal entry (Palm Sunday) “The next day” (John 12). It is safe to say Jesus still smelled quite fragrant from the oil. This being of Jewish telling, in Jewish culture, whilst Jewish people stood on the street as Jesus passed by, they (potentially) smelling the fragrance, resonated the Kingly procession, as they shouted, “Hosanna! Blessed is He who comes in the name of the Lord! Blessed is the King of Israel (v13).
Anointing was a priestly and kingly custom: Moses pouring oil on Aaron’s head (Lev 8:12) and Samuel over Saul (1 Sam 10:1) and the anointing of David (1 Sam 16:13; 1 Chron 29:22). Interestingly, Mary anoints Jesus’ feet. Could it be (just an observation) yes, the custom was washing the visitor’s feet from the dusty paths but could the anointing of His feet, (not His head) display the declared Majesty of God—on earth. His Kingly walk among man, “The Word became flesh and made His dwelling among us. We have seen His glory, the glory of the One and Only, who came from the Father, full of grace and truth” (John 1:14).
Later as Jesus rides through the cobblestone streets, the crowd begins to yell “Hosanna… Hosanna in the Highest” waving palm branches with enthusiasm. It was common practice in the ancient world to welcome home a king or war hero by laying down branches in front of them, similar to our ticker tape celebrations today. Hosanna is the Greek version of the Hebrew saying “yasha na” meaning “Save now we pray.” This is taken from what is known as the Hallel, (Jewish prayerful readings of Psalms 113-118) specifically here, “O LORD, save us; (HOSANNA!) O LORD, grant us success. Blessed is he who comes in the name of the LORD” (Psalm 118:25, 26, emphasis mine). Can we grasp the impact of what they are saying? Jesus was fulfilling the prophetic words of Zechariah, “Rejoice greatly, O Daughter of Zion! Shout, Daughter of Jerusalem! See, your king comes to you, righteous and having salvation, gentle and riding on a donkey, on a colt, the foal of a donkey” (9:9).
However, just four chapters later, people were yelling again, but this time; “Crucify Him! Crucify Him!” (Mark 15:12-14). Little did they know they were basically yelling the same thing. Both times! For you see, for Jesus to “save we pray” they had to “Crucify Him!” —He allowed it. He laid down His life for YOU and for me. By this act and He resurrects from the dead with all Kingly authority and power. Bridging the gap between man and His God. He is the Restorer of fellowship—God and His children, mankind.
This weekend, may we not allow this moment to pass us by, as we whole-heartedly consider the impact and fulfillment of Hosanna. JESUS! He rides an untamed colt in a King’s procession, “SAVE WE PRAY!” THAT He did!
Move over Easter Bunny we celebrate the LAMB of GOD!
In Him DeDe (“Let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love & good deeds” – Hebrews 10:24).
I love the Psalms. The poetic sway of song and praise, thankfulness and yes even repentance. Some give heavy pen so emotional you can almost feel the author lean from the pages and grab you with fisted hand, look you in the eye and with a raspy voice: “Turn from evil and do good!” (37:27). Ok, perhaps not the raspy voice. But be assured you will be grabbed. If not, you’re not leaning in enough.
Yet of all the Psalms, what gives me the greatest pause are ones that exalt God.
King David wrote: “I will extol You, my God, and King, and I will bless Your name forever and ever” (Psalm 145:1, ESV). With twenty-one verses, he opens his worship with direct address, as a king himself, with a surrendered heart–he passes the crown, “my God and King.” Such humility and so much adoration, so much commitment.
“I will extolYou.” Extol, the word is pretty much obsolete these days. When was the last time we used it in a sentence? It isn’t active in our speech, prayers, or worship. (Or should it?)
There are two main emphases when praising and worshipping God in scripture: We praise Him for what He’s done; powerful, mercy filled, His divine action to His beloved children. We worship for Who He is. Personally, declaring Him as Superior: He is more, He is beyond, He is above all. He is!
In the Hebrew extol conveys movement, the act of raising. When extolling God, we are not only raising Him in high status over our life, but we lift His attributes as well. We grab all we know about Him and raise it as high as we can. Doing this we are under–lower. This is done both in word and deed. Wouldn’t it be great if it were contagious to others, as if standing and looking up and those around us are so caught by our actions, our focused direction that they too, stop and look up.
When we worship and extol WHO God is, we are indeed in the act of raising. Raising Him high. Higher than the stuff, higher than my mess. HIGHER. David continues the psalm extolling God in His greatness, glorious splendor, majesty, His abundant goodness, righteousness and oh, (OH!) He is abounding in steadfast love!
May our life, in word and deed–extol Him. (Get others to look up!)
In Him, DeDe (“Let us consider how we may spur one another toward love & good deeds.” – Hebrews 10:24)
Emotions. We all have emotional baggage of some sort. Our emotions can be messy and noisy. We can attempt to decorate them or hide them. Emotions can distract us and delay us.
Emotions are not bad; they are God given. There is plenty of emotion expressed in the Bible. King David and the apostle Peter are prime examples. David was an intense man. He played hard, was a violent warrior and a passionate man. Peter was a man of outbursts. He jumped out of the boat, told Jesus “NO!” and cut a man’s ear off.
Emotions.
In our attempt to control these often wayward and chaotic feelings we laugh them off with a wave of “That is just how I am.” Or throw up a pleading prayer “Oh God take it away!” But we rarely REALLY want to address them. Before we pray them away (in Jesus’ name) may we pause and first consider “Why?” Why we are feeling what we are feeling. There can be beauty in pause, great results in pause.
Perhaps we feel alienated and lonely. We are agitated, angry and cranky. Maybe we are dissatisfied and find nothing (absolutely NOTHING) satisfies us. Could it be—perhaps maybe—it is due to sin? Is what we are feeling a result of disobedience? We don’t talk much about the “S” word. Yet it needs to be the first place we look. Our relationship with God is first and priority, “Have I broken fellowship with Him?”
Lack of peace can indicate Jesus is not at the center of our life. May we be care not to MacGyver* the truth, masking over things, attempting to apply a fix with temporary elements. The duct tape will only last so long.
We see this in Genesis chapters 2-3 (Briefly paraphrased). Man and woman are in the Garden, naked and unashamed. Then they disobey (sin) breaking fellowship with their God. They attempt to cover themselves. God comes to the Garden. They hide and are afraid, NOW they know shame. Disobedience births shame. Shame turns to fear. Fear motivates hiding.
I noticed something, as God speaks to them, addressing their disobedience, as He declares consequences (Adam and Eve) and curses (serpent and the ground), He does NOT properly cover them until—UNTIL they are being sent out of the Garden, out of His presence. In their makeshift attempt to cover themselves, they were still truly naked before God.
He doesn’t pamper them. He doesn’t coddle them. He doesn’t waver in the disciplinary process and gives them a coat (yet). His actions convey (if you will – just an observation) “You stand right there. Just as you are—in your mess, WHILE I address your disobedience. ALL in love, the love of the Father.
When God came to the garden and asked, “Where are you?” God knew where they were. The question was for Adam to consider his position (hiding, wearing makeshift fig underwear) and his condition (broken fellowship with God). Broken and hiding, God had purpose in keeping them “in” their emotional discomfort without covering them. (Please know, He did NOT hold them “in” their sin. It was the consequence of the sin).
It’s like in Exodus when the narrative says, “God hardened Pharaoh’s heart.” Pharaoh’s heart was already hard (See Ex 5:2). God knew his heart. God kept his heart hard. In doing so, making them experience ALL the plagues. They needed them all. If Pharaoh stopped the process short, they wouldn’t have experienced all God wanted them (and Israel) to learn. Each plague addressed the “gods” Egypt worshipped. God doesn’t take away Pharaohs free will, He holds it—strengthens it, “So, you refuse to let My people go? Fine. I’m going to allow it. I’ll even help reinforce your stubborn will and watch you go through the whole pack of plagues” (DeDe’s paraphrase). It’s kind of like if we catch our kids smoking, to teach them a lesson, we make them finish the WHOLE pack. God needed Egypt to experience the whole pack of plagues. With Adam and Eve, they need to experience the whole package of shame. What it meant—what it felt like (shame and fear) to be in broken fellowship.
Sometimes our discomfort, our pain-filled emotions are meant to cause us to become aware of our sin. Sometimes we are not aware or have a blind spot or we may just be ignoring it. Not doing what God says. It’s like if we step on something, by design, the pain makes us stop and look. All these discomforts could point to what we have put in His place, making “it” or “them” (or self) more important. Or perhaps we have positioned ourselves to focus on what we want, rather than what God wants. When God said in Exodus 20:3 to “have no OTHER gods before” Him. He was serious. He is first—He is only.
Disobedience. How do we address it? “If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness” (1 John 1:9**). In today’s culture, “confess” tends to convey we are getting caught and owning up to it. But biblical confession is MORE. It literally means “to say the same thing”—to concede. When we confess, we are coming into agreement with God. It isn’t so much our “wrong” (although VITAL we declare it) but the rightness of God. “I am wrong — YOU God are right.” The emphasis is the rightness of God. HIS standard is right. HE is right. Confession (and repentance) is re-agreeing and re-aligning/re-adjusting to the rightness of God. And as this verse points, Oh the wonderful and beautiful forgiveness and purifying of God!
Folks, it’s time to get real. Time is short and there are people who are depending on our obedience. May we stop and look.
In Him, DeDe (“Let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love & good deeds” – Hebrews 10:24). Above is an excerpt from my teaching notes at the women’s conference.
*MacGyver is a fictional character from a 1980’s TV show. He was known for his creative genius as he got his way out of tight situations by using a variety of common household items.
**1 John 1:9 is written to the Christian, the Jesus follower. If you haven’t come to the wonderful saving power of Jesus, please know, YOU are loved. Jesus took care of the distance between you and our Holy God. All you have to do is accept His sacrifice, His blood to cover you. It is the INITIAL agreeing and aligning to the rightness of God. Ephesians 2:8 tells us we are saved (made right with God) it is God’s gift to YOU. You can’t earn it or have to work for it—just believe and receive it.
Emmanuel. At Christmas time we sing with a resounding “O come, O come Emmanuel…” and it is written in beautiful font lettering across our Christmas cards. Emmanuel (Immanuel*) meaning “God with us.”
Many who attempt to say God is uninterested and doesn’t turn His divine head our way do not understand Emmanuel. The Creator God didn’t just create everything, then wave Himself off, wishing us good luck. He is Emmanuel. He has been, He is—with us.
He was with Adam and Eve while walking in the Garden in the cool of the day (Genesis 3:8). He was with Moses and the Israelites in the desert as the pillar of fire by night (Exodus 13:21). He was with Elijah, proving Himself powerful when Ahab and crew couldn’t get a response from their wimpy false gods (1 Kings 18:20-40). He was the fourth man with Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego, as the three were in the fire (Daniel 3:24-25). Moses declared it is God’s presence that distinguishes His people from all the other people on the face of the earth (Exodus 33:15-16).
Emmanuel.
In the New Testament, tucked in the story of the birth of Jesus: Matthew chapter 1: Joseph is about to take Mary as his wife, (according to cultural tradition, the engagement was a done-deal). BUT she is pregnant (Hm…) he, a good man, plans to dissolve the marriage quietly so as to not disgrace her. Queue angelic messenger. Joseph is told to take Mary as his wife. The baby she carries is of the Holy Spirit. She will have a Son and His name will be Jesus because He will save His people from their sins. Matthew’s narrative continues: “All this took place to fulfill what the Lord had said through the prophet: The virgin will be with child and will give birth to a son, and they will call him Immanuel—which means, “God with us.” (vv 22-23)
God was and is with His people throughout history, but sending His Son, slipping Him into human flesh, all He was, all He did, could not be more unmistakably striking evidence of God’s presence. The All-Powerful, All-Sufficient, Sovereign Creator of the universe does not NEED to be with us—He wants to!
He was with mankind as Jesus’ sandaled feet walked in Galilee (Matthew 4:18). And He is with us, gloriously residing within us (1 Corinthians 3:16).
He is the God who dwells with – among and in. Emmanuel.
Jesus reveals to John, “the dwelling place of God is with man” (Revelation 21:3). Unhindered fellowship with God Himself, the thread of God’s reigning government is “God with us.”
So beautiful, so comforting, “Rejoice, rejoice Emmanuel…” (Sing with me).
In Him, DeDe (“Let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love & good deeds” – Hebrews 10:24).
*Why do we often see two spellings for Emmanuel? The different spellings are due to different vowels used in Hebrew (O.T. “Immanuel”) and Greek (N.T. “Emmanuel”) yet they are indeed the same God presence, just two different languages.
Peace. Just the word alone brings a soft glow to the soul. In this season of warm crackling fires, hot chocolate while we open Christmas cards with gold lettering.
Peace.
In the Old Testament, the word for peace (Hebrew) is shalom. In short, it means soundness, well-being, harmony, and wholeness. “Everything is as God intended it to be” (Brad Gray, Walking the Text). Peace is not necessarily in what we do not have, but in what we do have.
The New Testament (Greek – eriene) defines peace as “to set at one again.” Painting the picture that something had once been erected (as intended) yet has toppled over. Chaos, strife, irritation, unrest, even war are the results. Once it is set back, PEACE is the result—all is in its rightful place.
Remember God and man (and Eve) in the Garden, their relationship was good and whole (peace-filled) as designed. Then there was a sin outbreak, the fellowship with God (and each other) was broken—toppled over. Gone were the daily walks together in the garden, what was—is no longer. For generations (begetting) generations there was a missing element.
Fast forward to Luke chapter 2, the angels announce, “Glory to God in the Highest and on earth peace…” (v14). Peace was back on earth among mankind. Jesus is the missing piece (peace). He came bridging the gap (which was big and ugly) between man and his God. He set it all back in place. Fellowship restored. Peace had indeed come to earth and He-is-KING. Peace is a Person.
Peace is not only a Person, but a position. “But now in Christ Jesus you who once were far away have been brought near through the blood of Christ. For He Himself is our peace …for through Him we both have access to the Father by one Spirit” (Paul, Ephesians 2:13,14). We are now back where we were originally designed to be—full accepted access to God. Again, able to come into His presence. Paul declares this point, “Since we have been justified through faith, we have PEACE with God through our Lord Jesus Christ” (Romans 5:1). Peace is a position.
Isaiah 9:6, “For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given, and the government will be on His shoulders…Prince of Peace.” Now consider Colossians 3:15, Paul wrote, “Let the peace of Christ RULE in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful.” Does Christ take the rightful place on the throne of our life? (Pause, read that life question again). If God is not ruling on the throne of our heart, be assured another will occupy it! Something. Someone. We will know peace only to the degree that we YIELD to Christ, the reigning Prince of Peace.
It is NOT about peaceful circumstances, it’s about the APPLIED authority of Christ. Remember the children of Israel, there would be (short lived) peace, but then, they would turn their face toward another (another—anything). Peace lost. Paul again, “Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, PRESENT YOUR REQUESTS TO GOD, and the peace of God which transcends all understanding will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus” (Phil. 4:6-7, emphasis mine). Presenting to God means, we are NOT to go looking for solutions elsewhere. If we do, we can potentially be placing things on the throne that shouldn’t be there. May we not be throne hoaders (loading up unwanted, unneeded messy stuff). He doesn’t come to take sides (agreeing with opinions); He comes to TAKE OVER. That is what Lordship is. Packing with Him, love, mercy, and grace. Finding peace is not just the raising of a white flag, ultimately it is a banner of occupation! It is His design, His throne. Peace reigns. Peace is a posture. Bow!
Wait, there is more!
Because of our sinful nature and our perpetual continuing to do so, John strongly declares “If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness” (1 John 1:9). As we confess, (Greek, “homologeo”) we are saying the same thing about our situation that God does. We are now in full agreement; we concede and realign and adjust our course with what God says (NOT what He may feel or what He may mean) what He says! In this process, we are taking what was ‘toppled over’ and returning to the original design and bringing Jesus back to His rightful peaceful place—in the center. We mess up—we get cleaned up. Peace restored. Biblical peace isn’t just the lack of conflict; it is the presence of the rightness of God. Remember, “Peace is like a river…” (Isaiah 66:12). NOT a pond, stagnant and settled. Unlike the river, that flows from the mountain top, always moving, always refreshing, always pure. Peace can be a process.
Is this all easy? “NO!” (Sorry to yell). Life is tough, loud, and viciously swirling, but we can do some throne inspection and respond appropriately. I know I do. I have to. Daily. Even in and through tears. It HAS to be Jesus! Does He take the rightful place on the throne of my life? Do I place HIM in the very center of my circumstances? Does my life behavior reflect-declare “Jesus as King?”
What about you?
“May the God of Peace who makes everything… holy and whole, make you holy and whole, put you together–spirit, soul and body” (1 Thess. 5:23, paraphrased, The Message). Being set at one again. God the Maker—God at the center—God on the throne. God of peace.
Peace.
In Him, DeDe (“Let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love & good deeds” – Hebrews 10:24).
Christmas, a time of sharing, loving and gift giving. We are in the season of hunting for those perfect gifts. We roam the mall, the local Walmart, Target or order and excitedly await the Amazon truck.
Gifts.
We often read the Christmas story and highlight the most spectacular parts: Singing angels. “Fear Not” statements. The Star of Bethlehem, and yes, the divine precious baby in the dingy manger. YET, there are some quiet and less compelling items to be had in the excitement.
Consider, if you will, the Magi (Matthew chapter 2) as they prepare for their trek to find the child to whom the shiny Star belongs. Tradition, (not scripture) says there were three wise men, only because of the three gifts that were given. They are packing, (imagine with me) dividing the supplies list. Then they come to the gift inventory; gold is given to the first, then frankincense handed to another. “Oh yeah” the myrrh is last. How would you like to be handed the myrrh and picture yourself bowing low, head to the floor while you offer to the King of Kings, M-Y-R-R-H (said with an Eeyore deep tone). You may think “Why do I have to carry the white elephant gift?” White elephant it is not. It is one among the triune gifts that are of great value.
Have we thought about these gifts? Gold, the pretty glitter and value we know. Next, frankincense, is ground dried up tree sap used as incense, highly fragrant when burned. And myrrh, what is THAT?
The divine significance of myrrh: It also comes from the sap of a tree, yet it is not just some sticky goo creatively used. God doesn’t waste anything. God is in the details. Myrrh was:
In the divinely prescribed anointing oil for the Tabernacle and the priests (Exodus 30:22-23).
In the perfumed oil poured over Jesus’ feet (John 12:3, Matthew 26:6-13: The ointment is “Myron” which is myrrh-oil).
Also, as one of the spices wrapped around His body following His death (John 19:39-40).
Picture now, the Christ child, perhaps two in age or younger. Jesus with dark curly hair, possibly pudgy cheeks. At His feet, the Magi place gold, frankincense, and MYRRH. The same anointing oil used to anoint temple priests, now set before Jesus—our High Priest (Hebrews 4:14-16). The same perfumed myrrh now before small feet—perfume that would one day be poured over a grown man’s feet, those feet that would hang on a cross and be pierced.
Jesus was also offered wine mixed with myrrh while on the cross, but He did not take it (Mark 15:23). Scholars believe Jesus refused to drink the mixture, due to its numbing effect. He wanted to be fully aware—fully present in the suffering for mankind. Myrrh also (in the spices) wrapped around Jesus’ body. Wrapped. Just. Before. His. Resurrection!
Wonderful gift giving. Gold, frankincense and yes, myrrh. Christmas, we celebrate Jesus, a child, Who one day, would be the man fulfilling this gift. Myrrh—HOW PROPHETIC.
In Him, DeDe (“Let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love & good deeds” – Hebrews 10:24).
Note: For those of you who work Crossword Puzzles: 5 letters down: “Anointing oil of the Tabernacle, the priests and Jesus?” The answer: “Myrrh” (YAY! You’re welcome).
Recently I had to pivot. You know that moment when you forget something—you stop dead in your tracks and head back in the other direction.
There was a man in the Bible that did a similar thing. Luke 17:11-19; Jesus heals ten men with leprosy. He tells them to go show themselves to the priests (knowing they’d be clean and healed when they got there, the priests would verify the clean bill of health). All were healed. But one stopped. One pivoted and returned. When he got to Jesus, he threw himself at His feet thanking Him. Jesus asked, “Where are the others?” Nine were missing. Only this one man returned to thank and praise Jesus. This man’s action not only acknowledged what Jesus did, healing him (praise). But acknowledged Who Jesus was (worship), He merely gave instruction—what power! HE is worthy of the stop, worthy of the pivot, worthy of the return.
Notice too, the healing took place once the men began to walk (to the priests). Their faith, their obedience—their participation in the healing. Jesus spoke. They obeyed. They were healed. What would have happened if one mischievous guy threw his hands on his hips and defiantly declared, “What good will THAT do!” Defiance only brings delay (See 2 Kings 5). What if one wasn’t paying attention? Distraction brings a detour. He may have missed the guys leaving and take off in the wrong direction. Don’t be defiant. Don’t be distracted.
The narrative goes on, Jesus tells the one man, “Stand up, your faith has made you well” (v19, NASB). The context conveys Jesus heals all, but shares His disappointment in the others lack of thankfulness. The man returning, falling at His feet—Jesus gave him a healing, a wholeness, the others did not receive. The one man cherished the Giver—greater than the gift.
Thankfulness.
I pivoted the other day. Following this principle of thankfulness. I, like the one man, stopped. I went back to Jesus, threw myself (metaphorically) at His feet and thanked Him. No, there is no need for healing of a skin disease, yet realizing my current circumstance is not ideal or even favored. BUT. What am I thankful for? What has Jesus told me to do? Am I obedient? Am I focusing on the Giver? Am I thankful for what I do have? May I not be counted among the “where are the others?” I desire and long for the whole healing package.
As we step into this seasonal focus of thanksgiving, may we not make it more difficult than it is, or over think it to where we merely give up. Fall at His feet. HE is worthy of the stop, worthy of the pivot, worthy of the return. Worthy of praise-filled thanksgiving.
Pivot.
In Him, DeDe (“Let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love & good deeds” – Hebrews 10:24).
Growing up and into my late teen years, I had a reading disability. I could read but didn’t understand what I read. There was little to no comprehension. I learned to listen. Listen for details. While the teacher reviewed the prior night’s homework in class (while the rest of the students messed around) I was paying attention. In my lack, I learned the skill to mark the who/what/where/why and how. Fast-forward. God healed my mind, divinely making the connection a couple of months into my first year at Bible college, unfolding the night I finally surrendered fully to His call on my life. Healed, but packing with me the tools I learned over the years. God doesn’t waste a thing. He uses it for our growth and His glory. Thank You, Jesus. Thank You for the process of skill learning. Thank You for healing me.
We often miss details. Details in the big picture. Detail God put there on purpose, for a reason. I would offer we slow down when reading the Bible. Invite Holy Spirit to read with us. Specifically asking to see the detail of who/what/where/why and how in the context. I think we would be amazingly astounded at God’s creative, glorious display of His character! God in the detail.
I have been looking at Miriam, (Moses’ older sister) her early years in the book of Exodus. I know the story, but something stood out to me this time as I rabbit trailed down a delightful path. As I read, (asking, “Holy Spirit show me!”) Pharoah, the King of Egypt attempted to destroy the growing nation of Hebrews, ordering the midwives to kill the baby boys. When that didn’t work, he decreed “Every boy that is born, you must throw into the Nile” (Ex 1:22, NIV). He was drowning the Hebrews.
Fast-forward to Exodus 14. The Hebrews were delivered from slavery and now standing on the edge of the sea. They crossed on dry ground. But the Egyptians did not. “The Egyptians were fleeing, and the LORD swept them into the sea. The water flowed back and covered the chariots and horsemen. Not one of them survived” (vv 27b-28). God drowned the Egyptians.
Wow.
What detail. In the big picture of God’s delivering plan. The bad guys were drowning the lil Hebrew baby boys and God takes out the whole army of men. Not to mention, but I will, He took out everything. The men and their fancy means of war (chariots & horses). Interesting, God did not allow the men to run (the baby boys couldn’t run) “Let us get away from the Israelites!” (v25)… “the LORD swept them into the sea” (v27). God doesn’t miss a thing. Drowning? Let ME show you drowning!
God doesn’t just exert His power, to exert power. He told Moses, “I will gain glory through Pharaoh and all his army” (v17). Verse 31, “When the Israelites saw the great power of the LORD displayed against the Egyptians, the people feared the LORD and put their trust in Him.”
There is purpose in detail, purpose in power.
May we learn from this true event about the character of our God. Do-NOT-Mess-With-Me-Or-My-People! God doesn’t miss a thing. He knows the details of OUR lives. He will and does interject Himself in our story. If not now, it’s coming. Someday. I, like you, (by faith) await the time, we will say, “Fast-forward” when telling our story. May we continue to turn the pages.
It doesn’t take a two-three letter degree behind our name or a nicely framed certificate on our wall, “The unfolding of Your words gives light; it gives understanding to the simple” (Ps 119:130). Unfold Lord! Thank You in advance for all the visual aids You will use. Holy Spirit give us ears to hear and eyes to see–YOU! May what we see and learn cause us to be in awe of You and most importantly–bring YOU glory!
God in the detail.
In Him, DeDe (“Let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love & good deeds” – Hebrews 10:24).
Word Study: The Hebrew word “Hamas” is used 60+ times in the Old Testament.
“Hamas” meaning violent, wrong, malicious, cruelty, lawlessness, and injustice. It is almost always in connection with sinful violence. It is often the title for extreme wickedness. It does not, however, refer to the violence of natural catastrophes (I.e. violent wind or waves).
Consider current affairs. The headlines are using this word we’re looking at. Although the “claim” is the use of an acronym (A word created by combining the first letter of each word in a title or phrase). But. If it looks like a duck.
“Basically,biblical hamas connotes the disruption of the divinely established order of things” [The Vine’s Expository Dictionary of the OT].
“Pray for peace in Jerusalem. May all who love this city prosper. O Jerusalem, may there be peace within your walls and prosperity in your palaces” (Ps 122:6-7, King David, NLT). Jerusalem, the current capital of Israel.
Pray.
“May God arise, may His enemies be scattered; may His foes flee before Him” (Ps 68:1).
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[Resources: Strongs Hebrew Dictionary; Complete Word Study Dictionary of the OT; The Vine’s Expository Dictionary of the OT; Theological Wordbook of the OT; Expository Dictionary of Bible Words; The NASB Hebrew/Greek Dictionary. And any other biblical geeky place I read and forgot to write down].
Inspired Fountain 