Our Faith Response
When God tells us, “For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the LORD, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand. Call to Me, and I will answer you, and show you great and mighty things, which you do not know.” (Jer. 29:11, Is 41:10, Jer 33:3) Beautiful, wonderful promises and soothing affirmation, BUT, do we believe it? Do we believe Him? We are called not only to believe IN God, but we are to BELIEVE God!
This week at bible study we looked at faithfulness, what it is and how to walk it out. First we determined that faith and faithfulness are not the same, the first precedes the latter. Faith is a firm persuasion, conviction, belief in the truth. Faith is the assurance in our heart and mind of what we hope for, the certainty of what we do not see. (Heb. 11:1) Though not directly in front of us, we visualize what God intends to do in a given situation and faithfulness is acting in harmony with it. It is not fantasy or pretending, it is taking what we know of God and applying HIM to our circumstance. Faith is the assurance that He is Who He says He is and will do what He promises to do. My actions convey that I truly …BELIEVE Him! I know that I know and it is evident.
Faith is our reception of God’s word. “So then faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the word of God.” Ro. 10:17 Faithfulness is our response to His word. We live our life in such a way, clearly declaring a firm assurance, God is Who He said He is and will DO what He says He will do. Our walk of faith is lived out in faithful response. Faithfulness also carries the idea of trustworthy and of giving someone credit. Confidence in the person’s character and motives and the task we have entrusted to them. Do we trust God’s character and His motives?
Paul writes to Titus, exhorting him to teach good sound doctrine in the church, teaching the women, men, and slaves, “Teach slaves to be subject to their masters in everything, to try to please them, not to talk back to them, and not to steal from them, but to show that they can be fully trusted, so that in every way they will make the teaching about God our Savior attractive.” Titus 2:9,10 I like the rendering of verse 10 in the King James: “but showing all good fidelity” (track with me) this is the same word (fully trusted & fidelity) Paul uses in Galatians 5:22, for faithfulness.
Fidelity is faithfulness to a person, cause, or belief, being demonstrated by continual loyalty. I found it interesting that ‘fidelity’ is a term used in sound recording and reproduction. It denotes how accurately a copy reproduces its source, so accurate; it is as if you are THERE! How accurately a copy reproduces its source. If we are to walk this Christian journey in FAITH, how well are we representing our Source, God. Are we offering a true ‘sound’ (if you will) Does our choices, behavior, words resonate we believe God is Who He says He is, He will do what He promises He will do? Or are we distorting it. Distorting the sound? Like Paul wrote to Titus, are we behaving in such a way that we make the teaching of our God attractive, or are we turning others off or completely misrepresenting God and God stuff all together?
Sadly many feel that their ‘faith’ is a private thing. No, No it isn’t. Nowhere in the bible does it say or imply or even etched quietly in code that we are to tuck God in our back pocket, or leave Him as a bookmark in our bibles sitting on our night stands. We are called, commissioned, commanded to live and tell. Live our life in such a way, clearly declaring a firm assurance, God is Who He said He is and will DO what He says He will do.
In Hebrews 11 the author poetically describes the Hall of Faith, those who ‘By faith… offered, built, left, blessed, kept, marched and protected.” He continues on in verse 32 saying, “And what more shall I say, I don’t have time to tell about…” Listing those who “Through faith conquered kingdoms…whose weakness was turned to strength…” (v33,34) Who through faith conquered kingdoms, faith always goes through, may I encourage we always associate through with faith.
“But now, this is what the LORD says– He who created you, O Jacob, He who formed you, O Israel: “Fear not, for I have redeemed you; I have summoned you by name; you are mine. When you pass THROUGH the waters, I will be with you; and when you pass THROUGH the rivers, they will not sweep over you. When you walk THROUGH the fire, you will not be burned; the flames will not set you ablaze. 3 For I am the LORD, your God, the Holy One of Israel, your Savior.” Isaiah 43:1-3 (emphasis mine)
Notice He says ‘when’… not ‘if.’ We have to go through to get to the other side. Yes, that sounds so basic, common sense logic, but how many of us are going through something right now, whether a situation, or even a season. In the midst of it we are tired, discouraged and so very tempted to give up!
I am reminded of a story of a young Jewish man, who from early childhood learned to read and study the Jewish bible. He decided to pick up a copy of the King James Bible and began to read, Genesis 1:1, ‘In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth.” (period) PERIOD! He was astounded. (Period) In the Hebrew Bible, it is read from right to left, with no verse or paragraph breaks. For him to find a ‘period’ caused him great distress, “There is MORE.” We can’t stop here! Hebrew thought is you read until God’s thought is complete. In this instance, you would read until God rested on the 7th day.
God wants this of us too; when we are going ‘through’ don’t stop! He has something for us, there is purpose in it. Keep going until God’s thoughts are completed. In our weakness, as we go through, we are stretched, strengthened, we grow in faith, we learn to trust God’s character and His motive.
I was taken to John chapter 4, how going through changed the life of a woman, a village and the disciples, even the church. This is the story of Jesus and the Samaritan woman.
“He (Jesus) left Judea and went back once more to Galilee. Now He had to go through Samaria.” (v3,4)
Interesting in the original language it says, “It was necessary” for Him to go through Samaria. It was needed of Jesus to go THROUGH. There were other ways to get to Galilee. The most devout of Jews avoided Samaria. The Samaritans were considered half breeds. Centuries prior, that territory was taken over by the Assyrians, the Jews left there inter-married. They established their own church and teaching.
“Jesus, tired from the long walk, sat wearily beside the well about the 6th hour (noontime) when a Samaritan woman came to draw water, Jesus said to her, “Will you give Me a drink?” (His disciples had gone into the town to buy food.) The Samaritan woman said to Him, “You are a Jew and I am a Samaritan woman. How can you ask me for a drink?” (vs 6-9)
The woman came to the well at the hottest part of the day, instead of morning/evening as was the custom, it was probably because she was shunned and rejected for her immoral lifestyle. She went to avoid, we might say she ‘snuck’ to the water. Jesus knew her history but still engaged her. In this encounter Jesus broke 3 Jewish customs. 1st) He spoke to a woman, 2nd) she was a SAMARITAN woman and 3rd) He asked her to get Him a drink that would make Him ceremonially unclean from using HER cup or jar.
Through the conversation, Jesus reveals He knew about her ‘home’ life (married 5 times and the guy she was with was not her husband) this amazed her. They continue an in-depth conversation, soon the disciples return, the gal leaves and goes into town and tells them about Jesus, the town folks come and urged Jesus to stay, He stayed 2 days, they believed He was Who He said He was, (verse 43) “We know that this man really is the Savior of the World.”
Principle for us, God will do the unexpected, engage us, revealing to us who we really are, even in our attempt to avoid. In the ‘through’ He will help us learn His acceptance, His presence and Who He is.
For a territory that was once ‘DON’T GO THERE’ Jesus says, “But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be My witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.” (Acts 1:8) We see later in Acts 8:4-25, Philip went to Samaria, as the word spread that folks believed and were being baptized, Peter and John too went to Samaria.
Looking at four different scenarios of faith
Great faith: (Matthew 8:5-13) Jesus is in Capernaum, a Centurion (a captain over 100 or so men) came up to Him, stating, his servant is at home paralyzed and suffering. Jesus says, “I will go and heal him.” The captain says, “No need, just say the word and he will be healed.” Jesus responds that He had not found anyone with such great faith. He tells the captain, ‘GO! It will be done just as you believed it would.” The servant was healed! Great Faith! “Just say the word!”
Next, Gutsy Faith: (Mark 5) this is the story of the gal with bleeding issue, she had suffered for twelve years, been to doctors with no results, it says she even got worse. With the bleeding issue, according to Jewish custom she was ‘unclean’ and should have stayed on the outskirts of the crowd, if anyone came towards her or close to her, she was supposed to declare ‘UNCLEAN!’ – but she didn’t, she had heard about Jesus. She not only goes into the crowd, she reaches out and touches the hem of Jesus’ robe.
Interesting, the word used to describe, ‘touched’ (in the Greek) refers to such handling of the material as to ‘modify’ it. Meaning it wasn’t a flippant swipe of her hand, she GRABBED that hem so tight, she may have left her hand print on it. (Verse 28) She came up behind Jesus touched His cloak; she thought “IF I just touch His clothes I will be healed.” Jesus asks who touched Him; the gal comes forward and tells Him everything. Jesus responds: “Daughter, your faith has healed you…”
Another, Little Faith: (Matt 8:23) Jesus had taught all day, as the crowd closes in, He steps into a boat, we pick up later in the evening. With the disciples, He tells them “Let us go to the other side.” Out on the water, without warning a storm came up, the waves were terrible, coming up into the boat. Jesus was asleep, the disciples cry out to Him, “HELP! Lord save us, we’re going to drown.” Jesus responds, “You of little faith, why are you afraid!” He got up and rebuked the wind and waves, and they obeyed.
The same event is told in Mark chapter 4, I found something very interesting, verse 36, “Leaving the crowd behind, they took Him along, just as He was in the boat. There were also other boats with Him.’ A furious squall came up…” They weren’t alone. These disciples had just a “LITTLE bit” of faith, but just enough to know to CRY OUT to Jesus! Yes, our faith should be big and strong, but sometimes we may only have enough to squeak out “HELP LORD!” Be assured that even our littlest cry for help – it DOES affect others! It says the wind died down and was completely calm. The water was calm for the others as well. Also, when the Lord instructed they get a move on across the water, He said, “Let us go to the other side.” If they were going to drown in the midst of the storm, He would have offered eulogies along with encouraging words of seeing them later in Paradise. They were going to the other.
Lastly, Struggling Faith: (Mark 9:20) the story of the father with the possessed son. (Picking up at verse 20) “So they brought him. When the spirit saw Jesus, it immediately threw the boy into a convulsion. He fell to the ground and rolled around, foaming at the mouth. Jesus asks the father ‘How long has he been like this?” “Since childhood, it has often thrown him into fire or water to kill him. But if you can do anything, take pity on us and help us.” “‘If you can’?” said Jesus. “Everything is possible for him who believes.” (v24) Immediately the boy’s father exclaimed, “I do believe; help me overcome my unbelief!” (How many of us have said this!)
Interesting, at this point there was no VERBAL response from Jesus, He didn’t take him aside and tell the father, “There is a really good book you should read, ‘5 Easy Steps to Increase Your Faith’” – Jesus rebukes the evil spirit, “I command you to come out.” He took the boy by the hand and lifted him up.
It doesn’t say it in the narrative, but can you imagine the scene. The father says, “IF you can…” I believe but please help me believe more, increase my faith! Jesus turns with no words, and acts… you can almost hear the divine whisper, ‘WATCH ME!’ He heals the son.
We may have GREAT faith, like the Captain, ‘Just say the word Lord!” Awesome, use it, make it contagious. Or we may need some GUSTY/risky faith. We are on the outskirts, like the gal with the bleeding issue. May we come forward from the outskirts, be desperate enough to reach out and GRAB. Or you have ‘lil’ faith just enough to cry out for Jesus’ help. We may find our faith needs more, ‘I believe, but help my unbelief.’ Tell Him, and watch Him… LOOK for Him to move.
God not only is faithful to us, but faith FILLING. He continually pours into us. He offers opportunities, opportunities that stretch our faith, stretch our response. Just like the ‘fidelity’ when a situation arises, we offer a reflection of our faith.
Do we give a ‘pure audio’ of what we believe about God?
In Him, DeDe (“Let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love & good deeds.” – Heb. 10:24)
Resources: Complete Word Study Dictionary of the OT & NT, Holman Word Treasury of Bible Words, Vines Expository of Hebrew & Greek Words, Strong’s Hebrew & Greek Dictionary, The Hayford Bible Handbook, The Expositor’s Bible Commentary, Vincent’s Word Studies of the NT, The Attributes of God by Arthur W. Pink, Wuest Word Studies of the NT, The Manners & Customs of the Bible, Hebrew/Greek Interlinear Bible, Bible Knowledge Commentary, Bible Background Commentary, Bible History of the OT, Walking in the Dust of Rabbi Jesus by Lois Tverberg, Living Beyond Yourself by Beth Moore. Bible Translations: King James Version, New International Version, New Living Translation, New American Standard, New King James Version, Holman Christian Standard Version, The Message, Hebrew/Greek Interlinear Bible, English Standard Version, Complete Jewish Bible. And any other geeky book or article I rummaged around in and forgot to mention.
Oh Merciful Patience!
“Patience is a virtue” they say, I’m not quite sure who ‘they’ are, but as I join the applause and celebrate this God-quality, I am so very aware of the ‘duck quick’ mentality we have for patience, the closest we get is ‘Hurry up and WAIT!’
Louisa (my co-teacher) and I rigged bible study this last week to help the gals ‘get into character’ for teaching on patience. Before entering the room, there was a sign that read (boringly so) “Form One Line and Take a Number” The gals did just that, took a number and stood along the wall. Louisa and I stood at the head of the line, smiling, chatting, drinking coffee and ever so ignoring the line forming. Then a few minutes PASS the time our gathering is to start, numbers were read off, “Numbers 1-3 you may go in…” Our goal as the women FINALLY took their seats was to simulate how quickly non-patience can occur. They felt the frustration with the circumstance and the personnel up front. Patience.
In the New Testament there are two main kinds of patience mentioned, and often seem to be interchangeable according to the different translations. “…bearing fruit in every good work, growing in the knowledge of God, being strengthened with all power according to His glorious might so that you may have great endurance and patience, and joyfully giving thanks to the Father.” Paul, Col 1:10-12 (emphasis mine) Endurance, (‘hupomone’ in the Greek) is patience in circumstances, the quality of ‘steadfastness.’ Some would say … staying power. That is hupomone. This ‘staying power’ is motivated by HOPE. It is the characteristic of a man(or woman) who is not swerved from their deliberate purpose, sustaining through to the end. Keep, keeping on.
Endurance, perseverance, patience, we’ve heard it defined as ‘staying up under pressure.’ But it is much more, it isn’t just standing there, surviving (if you will) it is applying pressure, a leaning into. So when conflict or tough circumstances come our way, we don’t just merely stand there holding it up, we are leaning into it. What happens when we exert energy? Muscles are used and muscles are strengthened. Right? Metaphorically – our spiritual muscles are exercised and strengthened as we lean into – against in the midst of uncomfortable circumstances.
There is a prime example of endurance that pointed to hope in the Old Testament, Noah. Genesis chapter 8, they have been out on the water for a very long time, can you image all the ‘poo’ on board and how many rounds of ‘Row, row row your boat’ they sang. After 40 days Noah opens a window and sends a raven out, it flew around, coming back with nowhere to land. Later he sent out a dove, with the same results. Then, v10 “He waited seven more days and again sent out the dove from the ark.” Noah waited. Verse 11, When the dove returned to him in the evening, there in its beak was a freshly plucked olive leaf! Then Noah knew that the water had receded from the earth. 12 He waited seven more days and sent the dove out again, but this time it did not return to him.” Looking at this we’d think Noah got really good at ‘waiting.’ But you see his waiting changes. After the lack of results the first couple of times, he waited and tried again, this ‘waiting’ is the Hebrew word, ‘kuhl’ (pronounced ‘cool’) which means to dance or writhe in pain… to twirl in motion, painting the picture of to ‘wring the hands.’ This is a painful waiting. But the next time, the dove he sent returned with an olive leaf in its beak. Verse 12, He waited seven more days and sent the dove out again. This ‘waited’ is completely different; it is ‘ya-hawl’ – HOPE. Noah waited with hope, gone are the wringing of the hands. He had hope! I love the end of verse 12, “But this time…” in the midst of HOPE. Isaiah speaks of this too, “He gives strength to the weary and increases the power of the weak. Even youths grow tired and weary, and young men stumble and fall; but those … (BUT THOSE) who hope (ya-hawl) in the LORD will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.” (40:29-31) The writer of Hebrews: “So do not throw away your confidence; it will be richly rewarded. You need to persevere (hupomone) so that when you have done the will of God, you will receive what He has promised.” (10:35,36) The King James says: “For ye have need of patience” We have to fulfill the ‘need’ to get the ‘you will.’
The fruit of the Spirit, is love, joy, peace… patience. God inspired the word Paul used here not ‘hupomone’ (though defiantly a quality of the Spirit, we determined that) BUT Paul uses ‘makrothumia.’ Makrothumia unlike hupomone which is patience in circumstances, inspired by hope, makrothumia is patience with PEOPLE, inspired by MERCY. Remember the parable Jesus tells in Matthew 18, the King has a servant who owed a large sum of money, when the debt was called, the servant fell on his knees before the King. “Be patient (Makrothumia) with me!” he begged. The King offered mercy, holding back punishment, releasing him. As soon as the servant went out, he found a friend that owed HIM money, he too called the debt, the friend begged the same, “Be patient with me…” But the servant refused mercy and put the friend in prison. The King heard of this, summoning the servant, stating I gave you mercy, shouldn’t you have given mercy as well. What an amazing picture, the unmerciful servant. Patience is motivated by mercy. May we too ‘remember 
when…’ When God has patience with us!
“Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience.(Makrothumia) Bear with each other and forgive whatever grievances you may have against one another. Forgive as the Lord forgave you. And over all these virtues put on love, which binds them all together in perfect unity.” (Col. 3:12-14, again I emphasis) And “I urge you to live a life worthy of the calling you have received. Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, (makrothumia) bearing with one another in love. Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace.” (Eph 4:1-3) Both verses seem to repeat… especially the phrase ‘bearing with one another.’ The word is ‘anecho’ in the Greek. It literally means ‘to put up with’ – but not just that, it is holding back, to hold in. STOP! Patience is not only about what we ‘DO’ but what we don’t. Patience is RESTRAINT. God’s mercy is withholding what we do deserve, where His grace is giving us what we do not. One hand pushes forward in giving, the other holds back in restraint. Patience.
“Take My yoke upon you. Let Me teach you, because I am humble and gentle at 
heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For My yoke is easy to bear, and the burden I give you is light.” – Matt. 11:29-30 When fitting the ox with the yoke, it is BEST that the ox raises its head up into the yoke for the most comfortable and easy fit. This comes by time and trust, that the animal is willing to voluntarily lift their head to the master. If forced down by the master, the fit could cause irritation, causing the ox to lean, favoring one side and not work at full potential. Jesus says, ‘Take My yoke… for My yoke is easy to bear.” May we rise up into His yoke. God is SO patient with us.
To pray for patience sounds a bit risky (in all honesty) do we really want to point out, wave in the direction of patience? Perhaps we too, like Noah was, in a ‘painful waiting’, may God show us the ‘olive leaf’ leading us to hope! Let’s ask God to remind us of the patience & mercy He has for us. As the verses above declare, the bearing with one another is done in ‘love.’ Love through us Lord.
Patience.
In Him, DeDe (“Let us consider how we may spur one another on towards love & good deeds.” – Heb. 10:24)
The Ruling Power of Peace
The ladies and I at bible study have been treading around in the Fruit of the Spirit, while we splash about, we found ourselves going from knee deep – to take a deep breath here we go! We’ve looked at love, joy and this week … peace.
“Shalom!” You may hear on the streets of Jerusalem, as a greeting or as waving good-bye, the gesture stating ‘Peace unto You” in Hebrew. Meaning, prosperity to you, but not in the sense that we know today, we think prosperity, “WHAOO! I’m rich!” Prosperity is wholeness, soundness, well-being WITH God.
As a quality of God, what is peace and how do we get some! When asked of others, they all answered with pretty much the same theme, “Peace is NOT having strife, turmoil or war.” Which is true, but peace is not just what we no longer have (strife, turmoil), or the absence of something, it is what we possess.
The word Paul uses in Galatians 5:22,23 as peace is ‘eirēnē’ (a-ray-nay) This peace is the recognition and acceptance of the redeeming power and authority of Jesus in my life. In short, (in the Greek) ‘to set at one again.’ Think about the picture it paints. Something that has once been erected has toppled over. Chaos, strife, irritation even war are the results. Once it is set back, PEACE is the result; all is in its rightful place. The gap between us and the Creator of the Universe has now been bridged. Ever feel that IRRITATION – and can’t seem to identify what or why? Consider looking for what, or (may I suggest) ‘Who’ has been toppled over.
Isaiah 9:6-7 The foretelling of Peace. “For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on His shoulders. And He will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. 7 Of the increase of His government and peace there will be no end.” (bold emphasis mine)
The increase of peace accompanies the increase of Christ’s governing power over our lives. (read that again) Now consider Colossians 3:15 “Let the peace of Christ RULE in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful.” (Again adding emphasis) If I want peace in my heart, do I allow Jesus to RULE in my heart? He is King, yes indeed, but do I bow to Him as … King. Does my life behavior reflect my heart condition (or my words) declaring Him as King? Does He take the rightful place on the throne of my life? 
Do I place HIM in the very center of my circumstances? Here’s a dandy thought: We will know peace to the degree that we bow to Jesus’ authority.
In practical terms: Let’s say we put our ‘stuff’ in the middle of the room, walk around it dozens of times, call in others have them take a look at it, ask what THEY think, if we don’t like what they advise, we politely dismiss them and invite in others for another tour around our stuff. God’s way: We place it at the feet of Jesus (in the middle of the room – our lives) “What do YOU say Jesus?” And we go with what HE says. It is NOT about peaceful circumstances, it’s about the APPLIED authority of Christ. There will be times we may not have time to put it in the center and consider and pray. Ever hear that voice, you’re in a situation “OH DON’T YOU DO THAT!” Don’t you SAY that!” Do we STOP, and apply His ruling voice over us? If not heeded, you walk away and later you are unsettled? May I offer: Jesus would say, “I will minister My peace where I am in authority.” In the upset of obedience vs disobedience, His voice over our own, God doesn’t come to take sides, He comes to TAKE OVER.
How do we pray for peace? Ask Jesus to SHOW US, where something has toppled over, where we may have kicked Him off His rightful place. Once He shows us, take it and place it in the middle of the room, at His feet. Or move over, get off the throne, stop playing musical chairs and let Him back on the throne of our life. Remember, ‘Peace is like a river…’ (Is 66:12) NOT a pond, stagnant and settled. Unlike the river, that flows from the mountain top, always moving, always refreshing, always pure. “Peace like a river.” Flow Lord!
Peace, allowing Jesus the rightful place, the ruling place of our heart.
In Him, DeDe (“Let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love & good deeds.” – Heb. 10:24)
Rise Up Into His Yoke
Take My yoke upon you. Let Me teach you, because I am humble and gentle at heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For My yoke is easy to bear, and the burden I give you is light.” – Matt. 11:29-30 When fitting the ox with the yoke, it is BEST that the ox raise its head up into the yoke for the most comfortable and easy fit. This comes by time and trust, that the animal is willing to voluntarily lift their head to the master. If forced down by the master, the fit could cause irritation, causing the ox to lean, favoring one side and not work at full potential.
Jesus says, “Walk with Me and work with Me—watch how I do it. Learn the unforced rhythms of grace. I won’t lay anything heavy or ill-fitting on you.” (The Message) May we rise up into His yoke, our Master, connected to Him, at our best, in full potential.
Learning the unforced rhythms of grace.
In Him, DeDe (“Let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love & good deeds.” – Heb. 10:24)
Joy is a Choice
I have the privilege of co-teaching the women’s bible study at our church, this week I offered the challenge to discern the difference between happiness and biblical joy. Before diving in, I asked the gals to close their eyes, when I say the word ‘chair’ what first comes to mind, what image do you see? Asking around the room we had quite a variety; from old wooden chairs to high wing backed, to a big white stuffed comfy chair. There was ‘my chair at work’ also ‘this chair right here next to me.’ One gal pictured her friend, who was the ‘Chair-man’ of an organization they both belonged to.
Perception. How we view things, people and circumstances. These primarily are defined by our senses, what we see, hear, and touch and we as women basically by what we …FEEL! I feel unhappy today, so today will be an unhappy day. So goes our day.
What is the American dream (in a nut shell) ‘The pursuit of happiness.’ Happiness, we all want it, desire it, seek after it and sometimes make extremely poor choices in attempt to …get it. Webster’s defines happiness as: The mental or emotional state of well-being defined by positive or pleasant emotions. What a cycle! So I FEEL happy, than I must BE happy! If I don’t FEEL happy, than I am not. In this cycle we tend to ‘whine.’ “I just want to b-e H-A-P-P-Y! I have a RIGHT to be happy! We even go so far as to DEMAND others make us happy. We are happy junkies!
Please don’t get me wrong, these emotions are real. But we cannot define our moment, our day and lives by the coming and going of these emotions. We get happiness and joy, God’s joy so confused. Happiness is the result of external happenings. What is done to me, around me. It is circumstantial, and circumstantial is temporary. So as soon as the circumstances change, our mood changes, our happiness shifts. Joy, biblical joy is the result of an internal heart condition (read that again). Joy is our response to God’s heart for us, understanding His presence, purpose and power in all He does and is in our life. Joy.
Oswald Chambers said, “The first thing that will hinder joy is the subtle irritability caused by giving too much thought to our circumstances.” Too much thought, we do that don’t we. We re-hash, revisit and restate finding ourselves in … remorse.
What is the reason for our joy? Luke chapter 10. Jesus had sent the 72 out to minister to the people, “… they returned with joy and said, “Lord, even the demons submit to us in Your name.” (v17) Jesus replies, He saw Satan fall from heaven like lightning, and gave them authority to trample icky things and overcome all the power of the enemy. (paraphrased) Then, He continues, “HOWEVER, do not rejoice that the spirits submit to you, but rejoice that your names are written in heaven.” (emphasis mine) He is saying all this stuff is not any biggy, BUT, your name written in heaven, in the Lambs book of Life, now THAT is to be rejoiced over! Salvation.
And who’s salvation is it? Psalms 51:12, King David had just been confronted by the prophet Nathan for his sinful behavior with Bathsheba, David responds, (beginning at v10) “Create in me a pure heart O God, and renew a steadfast spirit within me. Do not cast me away from Your presence or take Your Holy Spirit from me. Restore to me the joy of Your salvation and grant me a willing spirit, to sustain me.” John shares his vision in Revelation 7, the multitude “…cried out in a loud voice: “Salvation belongs to our God, who 
sits on the throne, and to the Lamb.” (v10) Amen, and amen. Salvation is God’s.
God holds the ownership of salvation, it is a gift, His gift of grace. It is His to give. Apart from the demand to take in happiness, grace is the privilege to accept what is offered. In the Greek, the word for joy is ‘chara’ and for grace, ‘charis.’ See how so very close they are? They are so entangled, it is like the price tag hanging from Minnie Pearls hat, it is always there, always attached. Everywhere I researched, joy pointed to grace and grace pointed to joy. Grace is the unmerited favor of God, the absolutely free expression of the loving kindness of God, His divine influence upon my heart and life. Saved by grace… the internal heart condition. Yes, this does indeed equal joy. Joy is living out a grateful response to grace.
Pausing for a moment, I want to add a side-note. In my studies I came across something that changed the colors in my understanding of the Fruit of the Spirit. I found that all (ALL) 9 qualities mentioned: Love, joy, peace, patience, goodness, kindness, gentleness, faithfulness and self-control, (breathe) are all ‘nouns.’ That’s right, all are rendered nouns in the original language. God deposits His qualities in us, we posses them. By His enabling power they turn from love to loving, from joy to rejoicing. Just like any other noun (person, place or thing) He can give us His ‘arm’ for example, a thing, we could take it and put it nicely on a shelf and declare ‘here sits the arm of God,’ or we could use the arm to serve, help (action) the noun now has function and purpose. Love and joy now have purpose; goodness finds purpose and action in showing kindness. We extend mercy to others through our patience. We always hear love is a verb. YES, it is. But in its deposited form it is something God gives us.
In 2 Cor 12:9 Paul said Jesus told him, “My grace is sufficient for you, for My power is made perfect in weakness.” Paul had an amazing understanding, a revelation in knowing Jesus. In Paul’s letter to the Philippians, he opens chapter 3 with “Finally, my brothers, rejoice in the Lord!” Then he goes on to explain that knowing Jesus is everything. This knowing is 1st hand knowledge. In today’s society if we saw it on YouTube, we assume we KNOW it. I’m quite certain there is a HUGE difference from watching skydiving on YouTube – to actually being thrown out of a plane at 13,000 feet and free-falling. We’d KNOW skydiving. This is what Paul is talking about, “I consider everything a loss compared to the SURPASSING GREATNESS of knowing Jesus my Lord.”
But even in this, often we don’t have a knowledge problem but an OBEDIENCE problem. Remember in John chapter 20, Jesus appears to the disciples behind closed doors, (this following His death, and resurrection) later the disciples tell Thomas about it, (he wasn’t there) Thomas says, “Unless I see the nail marks in His hands and put my finger where the nails were, I will not believe…” Well a week later, (Go God!) Jesus appears again, this time Thomas ‘IS’ there. Before Thomas had a chance to say anything, Jesus tells him, “Put your finger here, and see My hands. Reach out your hand put it into My side. Stop doubting and believe.” What do you think would have happened if when Jesus told Thomas to look and touch, Thomas refused, looked away and left the room? (Pause, think on that) Our obedience steadily impacts our revelation. Our revelation of Who God is. Thomas did look & touch, His response, “My Lord & my God!” (yes, this is long, but keep reading)
The New International Dictionary of NT Theology (yes, I am a geek) explains the joy mentioned in Philippians (14x) as a ‘Continuous defiant NEVERTHELESS joy.’ Defiant joy. How many of us need us some DEFIANT JOY! Nevertheless, regardless, I WILL rejoice. Joy defies what we are ‘feeling’, defies our circumstances. Joy can even defy our pain. It is easy? NO! It is purposeful, is it chosen? YES! We take what God gave us and surrender and allow Holy Spirit to grow it in us, we grow from joy to rejoicing.
Psalm 30, David again pens, “For His anger lasts only a moment, but His favor lasts a lifetime; weeping may remain for a night, but rejoicing comes in the morning.” (v5) I love King Jimmy’s version, “Joy cometh…” Such hope. Just wait. It’s coming. Holding this thought: John 1:14 “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.” (jumping to verse 16) “From the fullness of His grace we have all received one blessing after another.” It literally reads in the original text: “We all have received grace and grace” (or ‘grace for grace’) What this means for us, as we stand in grace, the next step will be grace, then the next and the next. And just like Minnie Pearls hat, joy will be attached. Progressive joy. That joyful confidence in Who Jesus is, what He has done, and what He will continue to do and be. Joy cometh.
Can our joy be challenged? Yes. I have friend, his name is Robby. Robby and I worked together for about 4 years. We were as different as night and day, he nicknamed me, ‘Preacher Girl’ a name of endearment. When we first met, we chatted up a storm, the next day and the next. Then one day, he asked, “Why are you talking to me?” Hm, interesting question. “Um, why not” I replied. He said, “But you’re a Christian?” (I hadn’t told him, but you could tell) I said, “Yes.” He continued, “But, I’m gay.” (yes, you could tell) He told me when he ‘came out’ his family abandoned him. Over the course of the next 4 years, Robby and I had amazing conversations, I found out he was raised in the church, in high school he helped teach Sunday School. Robby knew.
One day he looked at me with his eyes welling up, and saying, “You are restoring my faith in the church.” Christians can be so mean. I was humbled. We had a strong understanding, boundaries were set, our lifestyles so very different. When he and his partner were going to Washington to get married legally, I told him I couldn’t go, he understood. Long story – short: We hadn’t worked together for over a year, but we kept in touch. Robby contacted me a few weeks ago, upset, stating his partner had left him for another. We talked, I prayed, I encouraged. I checked in with him often. He asked one day, “How do you do it, how do you know God doesnt give you more than you can handle?” I told him, you take one day, one moment at a time and you cry out to Him. I asked him if he could do that, he said he would try. Yesterday morning, a friend called to tell me Robby took his life on Monday, Oct 3rd.
Can our joy be challenged? Yes. (Especially when we are teaching on this topic) After I hung up the phone, I broke down. My heart was broken. I loved that kid. You know, the first voice I heard , “Where is your joy NOW!” It enveloped me. I took pause. Then realizing where this was coming from, from the pit of hell, I boldly declared, “My joy is right where it was last night when I went to bed! My joy is right where it was when I woke up, and my JOY is right here, right now in Jesus Christ! I have NO doubt in Who and where Jesus is!” Defiant Joy! Nevertheless! Joy is a choice! Jesus said, “The thief comes ONLY to steal, kill and destroy…” (Jn 10:10 emphasis mine) It is my choice to ALLOW it to be taken away, taken from what I KNOW is true. Jesus is King, Lord, Master and the One to Whom I run. I rejoice in this. He is!
We learned that grace and joy belong to Jesus, He is the possessor and the Giver. Joy as opposed to its counterfeit, happiness, it is not a right, but a gift we freely accept through grace. Happiness is external, but true inner joy, is the calm delighted confidence, the knowing and continual connection with Jesus. Jesus says in John 15, to tap into His deep reservoir of joy, ‘Remain in Me.’
Standing before Pilate, just before His crucifixion. Pilate says, “You are a king than!” Jesus’ response, “You are right in saying I am a King.” (Jn 18:37) I believe those are some of the most profound words in red. May that be said of me (always) “You are right in saying I am a King.” May my life represent Him in such a way that love, and kindness are so evident, others see Him. May we all be like Paul, seeking to know Him, like Thomas stay, and receive the revelation of Who God is. “My Lord and my God.”
After this teaching, our worship leader came in, with acoustic guitar, we worshipped.
Grace. Joy cometh.
For Robby.
Our Turn
“The first thing Andrew did was to FIND his brother Simon and TELL him, “We have found the Messiah.” And he BROUGHT him to Jesus.” (John 1:41,42, emphasis mine) What amazing progression. But first, the narrative says, Andrew and John were with John the Baptist. John B points to Jesus saying, “Look the Lamb of God!” (Yes, there is an exclamation mark in the text!) The two guys turn and follow Jesus. They spend time with Him, THEN… found, told and brought.
Remember when someone pointed YOU to Jesus? You follow, spend time with Him…
Your turn, our turn: “Look the Lamb of God!” Find, tell-bring.
In Him, DeDe (“Let us consider how we may spur one another on towards love & good deeds.” – Heb. 10:24)
Empty Handed
“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.” Ps 46:10 ‘Be still’ in the Hebrew conveys the imagery of ‘let it drop,’ cease striving with fisted hands. 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.
What’s in our hands? It could be a literal holding of something we need to give up to honor 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?
The empty palmed hand raised heavenward in prayer, symbolizing our longing to receive. Our empty hands clapping together in joy and applause, we praise.
Empty handed we come Lord.
In Him, DeDe (“Let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love & good deeds.” – Heb. 10:24)
Just Breathe!
Walking into church, a bit tattered from the week that led to this day, I take my seat (5 rows back, first seat in) Placing my bible next to me, the first thing that captures my attention is the quiet melody coming over the sound system, it is 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, you feel your existence evaporating with each step forward. As the day goes on you find yourself 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 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 hymhaw, 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 the damage to the brain. There are also ‘quiet’ symptoms that are attributed to a lack of oxygen as well: Depression, irritability and irrational behavior. Sound like your week? Just breathe!
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 to 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, fellowshipping with other believers, stopped believing God and stopped breathing God. Now where are they?
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.
How often do we seek things, people, position 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.” (3:15-17 – The Message) And the one who penned Hebrews wrote, “For the word of God is alive and powerful. (sound like breath?) 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, emphasis mine)
If we are to survive, let alone THRIVE spiritually we need God’s presence and His word to do so. Have we found we can’t seem to catch our spiritual breath? Are we low in emotion, irritable and even find our self 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. When was the last time we quietly spent time with our God? Prayed, invited His presence, and opened His word, pursued Him, His qualities? Just breathe.
In the garden just before Jesus’ betrayal, with the disciples, He instructs them to sit and wait. Taking Peter, James and John He goes further, leaving them also behind. He goes on alone further still. He falls to the ground face down and prays, “FATHER...” May we too go further still…fall before our God in complete honesty and surrender. (Matt. 26:36-46)
Just breathe.
May I offer, click on this link: (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pJfzzFeA5OQ) Close your eyes, take a deep breath… allow this to sing over you, BE your prayer.
In Him, DeDe (“Let us consider how we may spur one another on towards love & good deeds.” – Heb. 10:24)
New Study Coming
Ladies, as the bright yellow school buses again travel our early morning roads, it is our tendency to begin to settle into routine. Life gets busy and full. May we take a brief moment to mark our calendars for time set aside for the Word, study, fellowship and yes, potentially CHOCOLATE! (HAVE to add that)
We are launching a new season of bible study Tuesday nights (7pm) beginning September 20th, ‘Women of the Word’, meeting at East River Fellowship, here in Hillsboro Oregon. (East River Fellowship) We will be taking a deeper look at the qualities of God. Often we see these qualities, dust them off and place them on a shelf to admire, but do we truly walk in them. Love, humility, integrity, joy and yes PATIENCE (OH NO!) Join us as Louisa and I tag team teach as we pursue and inspire deeper lives for Jesus.
For more information, feel free to contact me at dede4him@gmail.com
In Him, DeDe (“Let us consider how we may spur one another one towards love & good deeds.” – Heb. 10:24)
Entrusted
Oh ladies as part of the ‘Entrusted Launch Team’, I’m so excited! The new Beth Moore study ‘Entrusted’ (2 Timothy) is soon to be (officially) released Sept 1st. I have watched the first session and LOVE IT! Take a brief look here Brief look at Beth’s teaching (click on link) to get a taste of what is ahead. You can even watch each video session individually (available now for $4.99ea download to your computer) Individual video session info . At the same location you can purchase the workbook to go along with the study. Her workbooks are rich with insight as well as having YOU dig in and take a look at the verses. This is only a 6 week study, but will indeed make an impact!
In Him, DeDe (“Let us consider how we may spur one another towards love & good deeds.” – Heb. 10:24)
Understanding More Clearly the Words in Red
Recently I was asked, “Why?” Why do I study Hebrew culture, language, customs and tradition and even the writings of ancient Rabbi’s, (this alongside in-depth study of the Old and New Testaments.) As I first began this pursuit I found it amazing how Jesus’ words come alive, His parables, His teaching, even His stern rebukes (Oh those Pharisees!) Jesus was Hebrew, spoke Hebrew, He was raised in the traditions and customs of Hebrew culture.
According to scholars on the topic, probably by the time Jesus was five years old He had begun learning to read and memorize the scriptures, after age ten He began to learn the Oral Torah (Rabbinic interpreting of the Written Torah, Torah is Hebrew for ‘teaching’ or instruction, primarily the first 5 books of the OT) Remember the story in Luke chapter 2, Mary & Joseph had gone to Jerusalem for the Passover, Jesus a young boy of twelve became separated from His parents, later they found Jesus in the Temple sitting among the teachers, listening and asking questions. They were amazed not at His age, but the depth of His wisdom. By age thirteen, by custom He would have concluded His formal study (from man) and began to learn a trade… a carpenter (Matt 13:55, Mk 6:3)
Customs and traditions: A fascinating one is found quietly tucked in Jesus telling the Pharisees ‘Give to Caesar what is Caesar’s and to God what is God’s.” (Mk 12:17, Matt 22:21. Lk 20:25) The story is told of a few Pharisees, (Members of an ancient Jewish sect, priests known for strictly observing traditional and written law. Sadly, they considered themselves much holier than the common people) Doubting Jesus’ claim of Godly Sonship, they had a plan to trap Him into saying things that would either discredit Him or cause an uproar within the community.
They asked, “Teacher, we know You are a man of integrity… Is it right to pay taxes to Caesar or not, should we pay or shouldn’t we?” Jesus knowing their motive calls them HYPOCRITES! He then asks, if someone had a ‘denarius coin.’ One of them, possibly one of the temple priests, steps forward, hands Him the coin.
We should pay our taxes and give to the church is what we interpret from this story, and rightly so, but looking through the eyes of Hebrew culture this story takes on a whole new excitement. When Jesus calls the Jewish traditional leaders ‘Hypocrites’ – they are exactly that (Hypocrisy is pretending to be something you are not and have no intention of being, and paying more attention to reputation and appearances than to character.) You see, denarius (Roman coins) was strictly forbidden in the Temple, because it bore Caesars blasphemous claim to be divine, yet here one of the priests HAD a coin in his pocket. According to Jewish law the making of ‘images’ was forbidden, “You saw no form of any kind the day the LORD spoke to you at Horeb out of the fire. Therefore watch yourselves very carefully, so that you do not become corrupt and make for yourselves an idol, an image of any shape, whether formed like a man or a woman…” Deut 4:15-16
The coin now shining in the palm of Jesus’ hand, He asks the question, “Whose portrait is this…” I think at this moment, we may have been able to hear the slight snickers of the disciples, “DUDE, Busted!” Tradition states that temple priests would refuse the current money demanding the people priorly exchange it for the ‘half-shekel’ which was free from all pagan images, and they would not be defiled. Not in this case. Hm, a defiled hypocritical priest in possession of a forbidden coin attempting to entrap the Master! Yet, Jesus (Go God!)
Jesus followed many Jewish customs, in Luke 4, we find Him in the Synagogue, 
standing and reading from a portion of Isaiah (61:1,2) as was the custom of the day, Rabbis would read, then give commentary: “The Spirit of the Lord is on me, because he has anointed me to preach good news to the poor. He has sent me to proclaim freedom for the prisoners and recovery of sight for the blind, to release the oppressed.” Rolling the scroll back up and handing it to the attendant and sat down, then adds, “By the way, that’s Me.” (paraphrase of course)
There are times we read on through and over passages that speak directly to tradition and not really understand them. One great example is in Mark 7 (also Matt 15) Jesus says: “But you say that if a man says to his father or mother: ‘Whatever help you might otherwise have received from me is Corban’ (that is, a gift devoted to God), Thus you nullify the word of God by your tradition that you have handed down. And you do many things like that.” Really now, WHAT is ‘Corban!’
First setting the context, again the Pharisees (troublesome folk) saw the disciples eating without first ‘performing the hand-washing ceremony’ (defined by Jewish tradition) approached Jesus and asked why they didn’t follow the traditions of their ancestors, Jesus responds, “You have a fine way of setting aside the commands of God in order to observe your own traditions!” Then proceeds to give ‘Corban’ as an example: The Jewish tradition allowing money originally dedicated to the care of parents could be declared Corban, ‘Dedicated to God’, the money would then be released to the Temple (if so desired, it was a move of prestige appearance) In doing so the person exempts himself from any inconvenient obligation to take care of their parents, disregarding and rejecting the Law of Moses. “Honor your father and mother, as the LORD your God commanded you.” (Ex. 20:12, Deut. 5:16)
“Jesus wasn’t against all tradition, but He was against those who made their traditions as important, if not MORE important than God’s Word. Good traditions shine a spotlight on God’s Word, move us to obedient service (with understanding) They explain and reinforce the teachings of God. God’s Word should ALWAYS be the focus, and tradition a means of bringing that Word alive.” – Life Application Study Bible, study notes. (Emphasis mine)
Knowing the culture, traditions, and beliefs help paint the picture that Jesus was born in, raised and lived and taught about, understanding more clearly the words in red.
In Him, DeDe (“Let us consider how we may spur one another toward love & good deeds.” – Heb. 10:24)
I encourage you to explore more for yourself. There are some great books explaining the customs and traditions of Jewish living. “Walking in the Dust of Rabbi Jesus’ and ‘Sitting at the Feet of Rabbi Jesus’ by Lois Tverberg, ‘God in Search of Man’ by Abraham Heschel (are my favorite) Also there are numerous books on the ‘Manners & Customs’ of the Bible. Google & Amazon are your friend (with discernment)
Guarding the God in Me
The year was 1984, a young woman of 20 in her 2nd year of bible college, kneels while the men of God lay their hands gently on her head. Through prayer they speak words of promise, hope and declarations of spiritual potential in her life. With anointing, they install a teaching mantle* along with… a warning. “You will protect yourself…”
That 20-year-old is now 53, that was me 32 years ago, (Gasp!) A lot has transpired in the last 32 years. Hours and hours of study and not to mention (in detail) the stupid mistakes, which held hands with frequent lapses of judgment. I see the ever-increasing need to protect. What am I protecting? I am guarding the God in me. Guarding what He entrusted to me, and in me. Most importantly, my relationship with my God.
“You will protect yourself,” a note to us all.
Danger, in the spiritual realm, does not generally stand up and yell, while waving its arms, “Over here, yep, HERE! I am coming to get you!’ It is subtle, watching for an opportunity to ensnare. “Stay alert! Watch out for your great enemy, the devil. He prowls around like a roaring lion, looking for someone to devour. Stand firm against him, and be strong in your faith.” 1 Pet. 5:8-9 Paul strongly urges, “Put on the full armor of God so that you can take your stand against the devil’s schemes.” Eph 6:11
Proverbs 22:3 “A prudent man foresees evil and hides himself, but the simple pass on and are punished.” “The prudent foresees…” this conveys the idea of watchman or guard, one who is prepared. In 2 Kings 11, it speaks of the guard, those who set themselves in a position to see the enemy approaching. Gathering in tight formation; “Keep your weapons in hand, be armed and stay armed.”
Interesting, in the original Hebrew, hide is repeated, emphasizing the action, the “prudent… hides hides himself.” Using the context, a prudent man sees the evil and ‘in hiding, he will hide.’ Meaning it is active and progressive. You do, so you stay … doing. We keep on hiding. We are proactive in our stance to guard ourselves against evil. Way to go prudent guys and gals!
Taking precautions for many of us is defined differently due to the ever large number of entangling stuff, “Let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles…” Heb. 12:1 What hinders and causes me to be all entangled up with the wrong stuff may be different for you. We need to become aware of the things that entangle, snare and entice us. It is a good thing to identify the snake 
charmer from a distance then run and hide. Where do we hide? “The name of the LORD is a strong tower; the righteous run to it and are safe.” Pro 18:10 Our hiding ourselves is not a game of ‘peek-a-boo,’ thinking we are hid by merely covering our eyes and peeking out through our fingers. I’ve tried that, doesn’t work, we can still be enticed. It is a case of running AWAY (run FAST!) and hiding in God’s presence. “He who dwells in the secret place of the Most High, shall abide in the shadow of the Almighty.” Ps 91:1 Protection. We do this by staying in His word, staying in fellowship with strong believers, staying under good biblical teaching. (You do, so you stay … doing)
Protecting and hiding. Liken to a football game. Those who carry the prized possession … the ball, hold that puppy tucked up tight against them as humanly possible. While the other arm is strongly flexed, ready to push away with force. Why? Because the opposing team wants the ball, they will do whatever it takes to get it, including (and not limited to) grabbing violently, pushing, pulling, shoving, knocking down, and hurting to steal it. So it is with us, what is the most prized possession we have? Our relationship with the Lord Jesus Christ! And you can count on the opposing team to do whatever it takes to cause us to 
fumble, hurt us, and steal from us! I am not talking about losing our salvation, or hording the God things, and not giving it out. There is an enemy out there who wants to destroy us. He (little ‘h’) is constantly reaching in (Foul!) and trying to grab our joy, our contentment in Christ, our peace, our strength, even our confidence. Before we know it, we stutter step, get our feet all tangled up and … fall.
The word picture offered “A prudent man foresees evil and hides himself, but the simple pass on …” the simple, or naïve, is one who opens their arms wide willingly accepting what comes their way, and walks into the embrace. They don’t hold their convictions, their love of God in tight around them. He/she is naïve, lacking insight, wisdom, making them easily distracted, and easily seduced. As if a tourist in a foreign country, walking through the dangerous part of town, with backpack freely slung over their shoulder, all pockets are unzipped, passport dangling out with all their traveling money visible for the taking. They are unwise, over-confident and almost inviting trouble.
“Keep and guard your heart with all vigilance and above all that you guard, for out of it flow the springs of life.” Pro 4:23 one resource explains it: ‘Guard the affections of your heart; the emotional attachments you make determine the course of your life.’ Those things, and people I attach myself to determine which way I go. May I just say “OUCH!” Oswald Chambers strongly adds: “Never become attached to anything that continues to hurt God. For you to be free of it, God must be allowed to hurt whatever it may be.” What is the prevention from the 
hurt? We ‘guard against’ it in the first place.
Precautions, positioning, boundaries and accountability, these are our defense (along with the armor of God, standing strong with the sword and behind the shield of faith) We know our weaknesses; with the help of the Holy Spirit we set guidelines in place, we mark a perimeter against the evil stuff and hide and hide in Him. The God-loving, God-living life is one of consecration, set apart for Him, we take careful notice of what we read, see and listen to. Doing whatever it takes to guard the God in us, the most prized possession we have.
Are we the wise prudent guard or the simple naive, wandering aimlessly into the mess? (Just hand them the football already!)
You will protect yourself.
In Him, DeDe (“Let us consider how we may spur one another on towards love & good deeds.” – Heb. 10:24)
*In Bible days, a Mantle (as mentioned above in the first paragraph) was an outer cloak used for additional covering and warmth, especially at night, like that of a blanket. From the idea of something that “covers” in the natural, a mantle represents spiritual covering as well. It usually refers to spiritual authority and anointing, we can see this in the story of Elijah & Elisha found in 2 Kings 2.
A spiritual mantle can be wrapped as a scriptural metaphor (symbol) holding elements of: calling, gift, passion, ability, anointing, skill set, or level of authority that God has given a specific person. God determines the mantle – we do not select it; it is established, destined and imparted by God. It is more than gifting, it is an anointing, to serve God in the capacity of spiritual DNA, destiny and calling of God. It always has a cost. It always demands great responsibility.
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An Unredacted Copy
REDACTED: ‘To revise by editing or censoring, to select or adapt by obscuring or removing sensitive information.’ We do this don’t we? We do it in our life with scripture. We take ‘a lil here and a lil there’ and seem to remove the stuff (the sensitive information) we don’t agree with or think too hard to walk out. Or out of our laziness, we don’t even attempt to try or do it all on our own. We live our lives as if we redacted the Word, or try to add what is not there. I know I have, I had a ‘marked up, redacted copy’ and attempted to live according to that and have positive, God-blessed results. Didn’t happen!
Interesting, there is a marker (brand name, ‘Secure Marker’) you can purchase designed just for this. Black ink used to block out and obscure information. The advertising capturing with exciting motive: “Perfect for hiding personal information…” May we not (metaphorically) pick one up, just in case we come across some ‘personal information’ we feel needs some blocking out. God’s word to us IS personal! Funny how we think if it is blotted out, it is not there. Taking away from the bible, so WE feel good about its instruction.
God’s word says: “The entirety of Your word is truth…” Ps 119:160 “Every word of God proves true. He is a shield to all who come to Him for protection. Do not add to His words, or He may rebuke you and expose you as a liar.” Pr 30:5-6 Jesus said, “Blessed rather are those who hear the word of God and obey 
it.” (Lk 11:28) He didn’t suggest it or offer alternatives, as if saying: “Well, if it seems a lil tough, I understand, just make what works for you, happen.” Jesus did say: “Walk with Me and work with Me—watch how I do it. Learn the unforced rhythms of grace. I won’t lay anything heavy or ill-fitting on you.” Matt.11:29 (MSG) His word is true. Leave it as is. Live it as is. Living it with the help of the Holy Spirit according to a unredacted copy of the sensitive information, personal information we are called to.
Unredacted.
In Him, DeDe (“Let us consider how we may spur one another on towards love & good deeds.” – Heb. 10:24)
Compassion, Sharing a Chapel Experience
A few years ago I was asked to speak at the Pastors chapel at a local Christian school. I was given the assignment of sharing on… Compassion. What an honor. What a challenge. I needed to share it in such a way that five years olds would grasp it, sixth graders wouldn’t be bored by it and the adult staff stay awake through it.
Standing in front of the group, I began sharing the story of the good Samaritan. I read from Luke chapter 10. I only got into a couple of verses when a woman sitting in the front row began to fidget. As I read, her behavior became quite disruptive. Her demeanor was that of agitation. Continuously tugging at the collar on her jacket, looking down and bouncing her leg as if anxious for something. Attempting to disregard the distraction, I continued to explain the story of the compassionate Samaritan man. He was going about his business when he came across someone in need. He had the choice to continue on or stop. Stop and engage himself in the disruption to his journey.
Soon all youthful eyes, and adult curiosity was now drawn to the woman in the front row. I knew I had lost the audience. Pausing, I inquired of the woman, stepping forward slightly, whispering (loud enough for all to hear) “Ma’am, is there something I can help you with?” She shrugged, as if to brush off my attempt. I asked if she was too hot, she nodded in agreement. Sheepishly, she allowed me to help her with her jacket. Not knowing what to do with the jacket and in hopes of keeping the flow of the sermon, I simply put the jacket on. “Having compassion is taking the time to help others…” I said to the group , in 
reference to the Samaritan. As I spoke, by habit I put my hand in the pocket of the ladies jacket, I instantly felt something. Showing surprise, I pulled out a large white piece of paper. Five year olds and sixth graders all leaning forward in great attention. Even the junior high kids trying to disguise it, were now interested. Unfolding it, facing out to the kids, in large black letters it read, ‘PAIN.’ All eyes now wide. I stuck my hand in the other pocket, pulling out another large piece of paper, this one read, “SAD!”
We are told throughout the New Testament we are to ‘Put on.’ Put on the armor of light, put on Christ, put on the new man, put on the full armor of God, put on love. Paul told the folks in Colossee, “Therefore, God’s chosen ones, holy and loved, put on heartfelt compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience.” (3:12, emphasis mine) All are God qualities! We put on God stuff.
Compassion in the Greek is a compound word, meaning ‘good affection’ or tender-hearted. It is strongly associated with sympathetic ACTION. We not only acknowledge the need, we ACT on that knowledge.
Jesus is our greatest example of this: “When Jesus landed and saw a large crowd, He had compassion on them, and healed their sick.” (Matt. 14:14) Jesus saw a woman mourning the death of her son, “He had compassion on her…” And restored life to the boy. (Lk 7:13) Jesus, the disciples, and a large crowd, Jesus healed the sick and gave sight to the blind. He called His disciples and said, “I have compassion on the multitude..” and He feed them. (Matt. 15:32-39)
Ephesians 4:32 “Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other just as in Christ God forgave us.” Compassionate: In the original language, the word picture here is amazing. It is as though, we take on the feelings of another, giving us greater understanding of their plight, and help them. Like the gal in the front row, taking off her jacket, and giving it to me. I now ‘wear’ her coat of experience and suffering.
Yes, I had planted the woman in the front row. I wanted the kids to see that compassion, ACTIVE compassion can come by way of a disturbance or distraction. Like the fellow in the Samaritan story, it cost him time, attention and money. The man’s ailment he was showing compassion to was very evident, unlike some, not so noticeable. We may never know why someone acts the way they do, or what they may be feeling. Pain comes in many forms and sadness expressed in many ways. It wasnt until I took the time to address the gal in the 
front row, and ‘put on’ her jacket (and found the notes) that I understood her better. She was in pain and very sad. I am sympathetic, my judgement is tempered, I now share and understand her pain and sadness … compassionate.
At the end of the chapel service, I hugged the front row gal, she stood, while I introduced her to the group. I don’t think the kids will forget this chapel service with the disruptive gal and the jacket notes. They understood, WHY she acted that way. Pain and Sad. Compassion. To experience together.
In Him, DeDe (“Let us consider how we may spur on one another toward love & good deeds.” – Heb. 10:24)
Proverbs 31, A Moms Instruction
“A wife of noble character who can find? She is worth far more than rubies… she gets up while it is still dark … considers a field and buys it… plants a vineyard… sets about her work vigorously… provides food for her family… opens her arms to the poor… makes coverings for her bed…makes linen garments… watches over the affairs of her household… speaks with wisdom and faithful understanding is on her tongue… her children rise and call her blessed, her husband praises her…” Proverbs 31 also known as WONDER WOMAN! I am lucky if I get the bed made, make sure there is milk in the frig, and the household doesn’t run out of toilet paper. When my son does rise around noon, it normally isn’t ‘Blessed’ being yelled, but “M-O-M!” By the end of the day if the smoke detector has not sounded the alarm due to my cooking, to me THAT is a victorious, virtuous woman. I stand tall, hands on hips, and chin lifted high. Give me a cape!
Often when we read Proverbs 31, we normally hear King Solomon’s voice rattle off the poetic lines, as we roll our eyes “OH BRUTHER!” The words express the ‘PERFECT’ woman. We think “Of course, a MAN wrote this!” However, this instruction is coming from the authors MOTHER! “The words of Lemuel, King of Massa, which his mother taught him:” (Pro. 31:1, emphasis mine) The next 
30 verses are instruction coming from his mom. Instruction to a man from a woman. Strong words of wisdom in action. I became aware of this the other day as I was reading the proverb, wait just a hog-tied moment, back up… who wrote this?
All of Proverbs is known to be of King Solomon “These also are proverbs of Solomon which the men of Hezekiah, king of Judah, transcribed.” Pro. 25:1, except the last two chapters. Chapter 30 is attributed to ‘Agur, son of Jakeh.’ While the well-known chapter 31, as mentioned above, ‘Lemuel, King of Massa.’ There are many speculations of who this ‘Lemuel’ is, there is no other mention of him in all of scripture. Many scholars believe he is just that, some King from Massa. While other scholars believe he is indeed Solomon. Ancient Jewish tradition identifies Lemuel as King Solomon. Some claim that Lemuel is a pet name given to him by his mother at a young age, he uses this name while in reference to what his mother told him. Some also believe there is a ‘break’ within the chapter, verse 1-9 are segmented out, not flowing to the following verses 10-31. While others believe this to be one continuous writing, flowing from verse to verse. I leave this to you to research and decide on your own. However…
Let’s take a look as if it really was Solomon that wrote Proverbs 31, being reminded, there is no strong doctrinal standing that it is. Who was Solomons mother? Bathsheba. Our first thought is not of Bathsheba being the wise mother full of virtuous advice, it is of the first sighting of her by King David from the roof top. From there we know the story of lust, deceit and murder, (we can read their story in 2 Sam. 11-12) To gain a true understanding of what followed, we read David’s heart in Psalm 51. The title above this Psalm reads: “A psalm of David. When the prophet Nathan came to him after David committed adultery with Bathsheba.” Verse one, “Have mercy on me, O God, according to Your unfailing love..” The key verse, “Against You, You only, have I sinned and done what is evil in Your sight.” (v4) Can you hear his heart? Although Bathshebas’ repentance is not recorded, some believe she too repented and was forgiven, because when she conceived Solomon, Nathan the prophet said they should name him Jedediah, which means ‘blessed of God.” Evidence of repentance? I’d say so.
Interesting side note, there isn’t a lot said about Solomons upbringing, but we see later, when Solomon was King, Bathsheba had Solomons’ ear. 1 Kings 2:13-20, Adonijah, Solomons half-brother came to Bathsheba and asked, “Please ask King Solomon–he will not refuse you–to give me Abishag the Shunammite as my wife.” (v17) Bathsheba agreed. “When Bathsheba went to King Solomon to speak to him for Adonijah, the king stood up to meet her, bowed down to her and sat down on his throne. He had a throne brought for the king’s mother, and she sat down at his right hand. “I have one small request to make of you,” she said. “Do not refuse me.” The king replied, “Make it, my mother; I will not 
refuse you.” (v19,20) Not exactly a mammas boy, but there was a strong respect.
At one point God asked of Solomon “Ask for whatever you want Me to give you.” (2 Chro 1 & 1 Kings 3) Solomon responded that he wanted wisdom and a hearing heart to lead the people, God granted that. As the saying goes, “Behind every great man is a great woman.” It seems apparent from this proverb, perhaps Bathsheba too had a great influence. The opening line to this proverb I find paints a strong picture. The word the author uses for ‘taught’ has a much broader sense then just to teach, or share instruction, as a professor points with a yard stick to the words on the blackboard. It reaches further to chastening. Meaning to make someone aware of their failure. The instruction is motivated to purify or refine. To cause someone to be more humble for moral improvement. Sound like a mother?
Bringing forward a current thought, James Dobson states, “The two greatest needs of a child is love and limits.” Limits come in many forms, perhaps Bathsheba knew this. When we read through the beautiful words of Proverbs 31, let us read them with new insight, (regardless of the author) the words are of a mother’s heart. “O my son, son of my womb… do not spend your strength on women, your vigor on those who ruin kings. It is not for Kings, O Lemuel, not for kings to drink wine, not for rulers to crave beer, lest they drink and forget what the law decrees… Speak for those who cannot speak for themselves… speak up and judge fairly, defend the rights of the poor and needy… a wife of noble character who can find… a woman who fears the Lord is to be praised, give her the reward she has earned…” Wonder Woman? No, just the qualities a mother wants for her son. In the traditional Jewish culture, it’s not the women who memorize Proverbs 31, but the men. “A wife of noble character who can find?” (v 10) Shedding new light; a mom to a son.
In Him, DeDe (“Let us consider how we may spur one another on towards love & good deeds.” – Heb. 10:24)
New Beth Moore study: ‘Entrusted’
Ladies, I am part of the ‘Entrusted’ Launch Team, and wanting to get the word out. Beth’s new bible study comes out on September 1st. ‘Entrusted.’ A study of 2 Timothy, this is the last letter we have from Paul and he is leaving his beloved son in the faith, Timothy, his last written words. This study will encourage you to use the gifts and the calling God has entrusted to you to be a mighty servant in the faith! Beth’s studies are rich in history, culture, and language of the day. Being a gifted teacher, she literally ‘takes you there’ while pulling principles to help guide you along in your journey with Jesus.
Take a look at [LifeWay.com/Entrusted]. It’s gunna be a GOOD one!
Blessings, DeDe (“Let us consider how we may spur one another on towards love & good deeds.” – Heb. 10:24)
Dancing
Ever felt a roughness in your spirit? How about your emotions wound so tight you fear you may snap like a rubber band. Or your mind packed with tangled thoughts and it would take a convention full OCD participants to align them all for you. A few years ago, I was in such a place. Knowing I needed to do something; I went to visit two dear friends on their 113 acre cattle farm in Western Washington. Getting out of the city and to the quiet of the country is exactly what I needed. Sitting in the backyard, the clouds caught my attention, white and fluffy, moving ever so slowly. What rhythm I thought, they were peaceful, going in the direction they were created to, beautifully orchestrated.
Later I drove to a nearby small town; I walked down to the docks where the sea
water comes into the bay. Contemplating, I sat and watched the seagulls this time. In the distance I saw a kayak approaching with two people in it. There it was again … rhythm; they lifted and set down, lifted and set down the oars with such grace. This is when it dawned on me, what it was I had been sensing that last couple of weeks. Rhythm. My rhythm with the Lord (if you will) had somehow gotten disrupted, whether by lack of focus or disobedience. This affected my perspectives, attitudes and responses and yes, my emotions.
The Lord gave me a picture of dancing. Slow – graceful, elegant unity, like that of ball room dancing. Yet to have the smooth rhythm and glide across the floor, there can only be One who leads. This is what the Father wants from me, that my walk with Him be a graceful dance, He as the leader. He places pressure on my back so gently, I know to move forward, or to the left or the right. Remember when Israel stepped away from God, AGAIN, Isaiah spoke on God’s behalf, “O people of Zion, who live in Jerusalem, you will weep no more. He will be gracious if you ask for help. He will surely respond to the sound of your cries.” Isaiah 30:19 He continues with “Your own ears will hear Him. Right behind you a voice will say, “This is the way you should go,” whether to the right or to the left.” (v21)
Up until this moment I had only been able to squeak out an “O God!” Now I knew what I had to do. Early the next morning I took my headset of worship music and Bible and headed down to the pasture. I was going to seek out my dance Partner. The grazing land follows the river down and around a bend. To get to my favorite spot, I had to walk through the tall wet grass and um … cow… ‘stuff.’ As I stepped over and around these spots, I thought, if we want to meet with the Lord bad enough, sometimes we have to go through the stuff to get there.
Still learning the skill of the dance, I began to pray, I felt much more pressure on my back than usual. But that is what practice is for. I was practicing the presence of the Lord. There was a lot of crying on my part, crying out for God to take over.
I was regaining my rhythm, but to do so I had to stop, confess and acknowledge that I had been trying to lead. Putting my hand in His, He again took the Leaders stance. Jesus spoke to this, “Come to Me, all of you who are weary and carry heavy burdens, and I will give you rest. Walk with Me and work with Me—watch how I do it. Learn the unforced rhythms of grace. I won’t lay anything heavy or ill-fitting on you. Keep company with Me and you’ll learn to live freely and lightly.” (Matt. 11:28-30 MSG, emphasis mine)
Nearly two hours later I was back up at the house completely worn out, but a good tired! I was soaked from the wet tall grass. But I wouldn’t have missed my dance lesson for anything! I do not want to “sit this one out” with the Lord, or make excuses to miss a lesson, though there have been (and will be) times I am tempted to do so.
Does reading this help identify what you may be experiencing, have you lost YOUR rhythm? When was the last time you went to dance class? Make time to get away, just you and your dancing Partner, and focus on Him. Do as He says, grab your Bible, perhaps walk through some muck, allow Him to put His arms around you and lead you gracefully. It will take a lifetime to learn the skill of the dance, but to sense and obey His word and touch can be beautiful as we follow along in the music of life.
Dancing.
In Him, DeDe (“Let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love & good deeds” – Heb. 10:24)
Offended?
We hear it in the news, bold letters across social media and perhaps on a more intimate front, conversations amongst friends and family. One word sums it up, OFFENDED. It seems these days there is an offense for everything and everyone. Offended , defined as ‘resentful or annoyed, typically as a result of a perceived insult.’ Most of the time we tend to quiet ourselves or withhold as to not offend, and politely… rightly so. Yet, while doing this, we hold back about our faith, our God, “I-I-I don’t know, talking about God might offend them…” So?
I find it somewhat humorous; there are those who are shocked that the Gospel of Jesus IS offensive. Of course it is! They want to extend only the softer side of God; love, joy, peace, hugs, and smiles. However, they fail to mention the reality of the gospel; the sin factor and the answer. Regardless of how tender and loving 
the message of redemption is presented, it will offend. When a heart is convicted by the ‘living and active…’ word of God and their need for the Savior, with the Holy Spirit wooing them, all they see is a reflection of what they are not. Offended? Yes.
The offense does not come from the messenger, (if presented in love) it is the message itself. “The message of the cross is foolish to those who are headed for destruction! But we who are being saved know it is the very power of God.” (Paul, 1 Cor. 1:18) Pastor Erik Raymond of Nebraska wrote: “There are sharp edges to this gospel. There is blood, death, wrath, sin, greed, and anger. You can’t sand that down without losing it all. Paul continued to preach Christ because he knew that this same (foolish) gospel was also the saving gospel.”
Jesus said, “I did not come to call the righteous but sinners to repentance.” (Lk. 5:32) The gospel wouldn’t be so tough if it wasn’t so stinkin picky about sin. “For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our 
Lord.” (Rom. 6:23). The message of the gospel is confrontational.
May we echo Paul’s word, “I am not ashamed of the gospel, because it is the power of God for the salvation of everyone who believes.” (Ro. 1:16) When it comes to the bible and my God, I will not tenderize the meat of the message, white wash to gain a sparkling appearance, no matter how much I love bling! Nor will I water it down for easier swallowing. The message is and will be, Jesus. The One sent from Father God to redeem us back.
Jesus told His disciples He was the true bread of life, that partaking of Him, they will live forever. This in contrast to the manna provided in the wilderness, it was temporal and sustained their physical bodies only. What He was providing was spiritual. It says that for some this was too much, “This is a hard teaching. Who can accept it?” they said. Jesus asks, “Does this offend you…” Many of these men turned back and no longer followed Him. (John 6)
Is Jesus offensive? Yes. In the most loving way, may we not water-down, white wash or temper the message. Those ‘annoyed’ NEED to hear and see it! The sharp edges of the gospel are meant to prick!
In Him, DeDe (“Let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love & good deeds.” – Heb. 10:24)
Distracted?
Sitting down, my coffee mug in hand, opening my bible, “WAIT!” Jumping up, “I forgot to put the clothes in the dryer.” Coming back later, determined to finish this time. The phone rings. “Chit-chat, chit-chat.” Minutes later, “Bye.” Ok, NOW! Reach for the bible again. Hearing the clock chime, “Oh my, I have to run.” Book closed. Distracted.
Jesus is in the home of the sisters, Mary & Martha. Mary is found sitting at Jesus’ feet. Martha, being the Martha Stewart of the day and using ingredients she can ONLY find three villages away, (kidding) was in the kitchen working. Luke (chapter 10) describes Martha as being distracted by all the stuff, the preparations.
Interesting the way Luke describes the scene, distracted. The word he chose 
(‘perispao‘) is the only place this word appears in the N.T. It isn’t a soft glance quickly the other way, it is a full on ‘over-occupied’ in a different direction. It denotes the misplacement of cares and responsiblity. Grammatically it is used in the ‘Passive Voice,’ meaning: The action is emphasized rather than the subject of the sentence. Martha was DISTRACTED!
Mary, still sitting and listening to Jesus. Martha begins to complain, she urges Jesus to encourage Mary to help her.
I love Jesus’ response, “Martha, Martha…” It doesn’t say it in the narrative, but you can almost see the slight swaying of Jesus’ head as He repeats her name as to emphasize a deep sigh. He continues by stating she worries and gets upset about many things. However, her sister has chosen wisely, “There is only one thing worth being concerned about. Mary has discovered it…” (v 42)
How easily we too are distracted with life, our cares and responsibilities. If you are like me I ‘squirrel’ all over the place. I need to focus! Like Martha, we have great intentions 
and motives, after all she was preparing a meal for them. Yet there ARE times we are to set aside the stuff and just sit at Jesus’ feet. Setting aside what occupies our time, thoughts and attention. Learn of Him.
Distracted.
In Him, DeDe (“Let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love & good deeds.” – Heb. 10:24)
But God…
Have you ever stood on the edge of the pages of your life and just shake your head in complete bewilderment and think one simple word, “HOW.” Then the rest of the frustration comes tumbling out. “How will this happen?” “How on earth can this be accomplished?” It is my tendency to face a situation and say “but God, this ….” and continue to whine, and explain all the obstacles, the ‘can’t dos.’ He, in His gracious manner pulls me back to … His word.
Believe it or not, ‘…but God … ‘ (or ‘….but the Lord’) is mentioned 326 times in the Bible. I have sat myself down with headset on, iPod set for slow worship, while I sipped my Grande peppermint hot chocolate and for the next 3-4 hours I looked up every one of those 326 verses, reading the context and re-familiarizing myself with the story, highlighting ‘but God’ in each verse. In this study, I was captured, captivated. I saw God’s character being placed in the forefront. There were loud moments of reassurance and yet quiet whispers of His love. This is what I found, this is what I learned.
I begin with Genesis 3:9. Adam and Eve are in the garden. What a life! Can you imagine, all you ever wanted, needed and the presence of God so intimate that He literally takes walks with you. Following Eves conversation with the creepy serpent, she is deceived, offering the fruit to Adam, he too chooses to eat. God is now coming for their daily walk together. The couple hides. “But the LORD God called to the man, ‘Where are you?‘” (Gen. 3:9) God calls. He knew very well where they were, the question was intended for them, to consider their location, their position and condition before Him. God is still calling. Where are YOU? I find it fascinating that God didn’t design us with a natural camouflage, He’d see us regardless.
Now the next ‘but God…’ in Genesis: The waters were high and a large hand built boat was tossed back and forth, a man and his family all alone among the 
precious cargo of every kind of animal created by God. Obedience led them to this completely unknown. Genesis 8:1 “But God remembered Noah and all the wild animals and the livestock that were with him in the ark, and He sent a wind over the earth, and the waters receded.” Are you too being tossed about, do flood waters surround you? God remembers. This doesn’t mean you temporarily slipped His mind, it means He will act on His promise to you. In His love, He will blow winds your way and cause the waters to decrease. Just wait, God remembers.
A man by the name of Jacob worked hard as requested and then was treated unfairly by his father-in-law. Genesis 31:42 “But God has seen my hardship and the toil of my hands, and last night He rebuked you.” God has seen. In the 
original Hebrew, the word ‘seen’ is an imperative, meaning we add a strong EXCLAMATION mark next to it. Not only that, but it is in the prolonged form, God has seen and will continue to see. He sees us where we are, how we are and how we are being treated. He will intervene, protect and defend. God sees!
Joseph, the cocky favored son, who was thrown in a pit, sold as a slave by FAMILY MEMBERS! Genesis 50:20 “You intended to harm me, but God intended it for good to accomplish what is now being done, and the saving of many lives.” God accomplishes. He redeems the bad and transform for good to accomplish His plan.
Gideon, one of my all time favorites. The guy was just trying to survive, doing his job, when the angel of the LORD came to him. The angel addresses him with, “The LORD is with you, mighty warrior.” Gideon responds with his own ‘but Sir’. As the conversation progresses, Gideon becomes quite fearful, as God lays out the plan He has for him. God reassures him with “But the LORD said to him, ‘Peace! Do not be afraid…” Peace. We may be fearful, full of anxiety… but God – Peace! (Judges 6)
Moving on, Samuel is called to anoint the next king over Israel. He looks down the line up of the sons of Jesse, he sees Eliab, he isthe oldest, tall and looks kingly. Yet. “But the Lord said to Samuel, ‘do not consider his appearance or his height. The LORD does not look at the things man looks at. Man looks at the outward appearance, but the LORD looks at the heart.” God looks at the heart. He sees us on the inside, we may not seem to be much on the outside, but it is the inner man He is concerned about, a heart for Him. (1 Sam. 16:7)
Amazing, just amazing! The word is full of examples like these.
But the LORD was my support (2 Sam. 22:19) But the LORD was gracious to them (2 Kings 13:23) But the LORD is their refuge (Ps. 14:6) But the LORD delivers him (Ps. 34:19) But the LORD upholds the righteous (Ps. 37:17) But God has surely listened and heard my voice in prayer (Ps. 66:19) But God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever (Ps. 73:26) But God knows your hearts (Luke 16:15) But God raised Him (Jesus) from the dead (Acts 2:24) But God promised (Acts 7:5) But God has revealed it to us by His Spirit, (the deep things of God) (1 Cor. 2:10) I (Paul) planted the seed, Apollos watered it, But God made it grow (1 Cor.3:6) But God, who comforts the downcast (2 Cor. 7:6) But God had mercy on him (Phil. 2:27) But God is the builder of everything (Heb. 3:4)
I have learned much, just two words, placing the insignificant particle word ‘but’ and attach it to God. POWER! I revisited principles such as: God is incredible, He is never late, always on time, and never ignores, and is extremely attentive to details, details of our lives. He is concerned more for our welfare than our comfort, and goes to extreme at times to make sure we hear Him. I did notice that 15 times alone in the book of Genesis, God made sure they got the ‘…but God,’ establishing right up front, at the very beginning that …‘He is’. (see Heb. 11:6)
God calls, remembers, sees our hardships, accomplishes, is our peace and sees our heart. What circumstances are we facing today? Do we find ourselves needing one or ALL of these. May we remember, to trust the Lord, smother ourselves up again in His presence, trading our, ‘But God…’ full of complaint and whining, for HIS, ‘But God…‘
In Him, DeDe (“Let us consider how we many spur one another on toward love & good deeds.” – Hebrews 10:24)
Seeking God?
I love the line titles placed over each chapter in the bible. The one over Psalm 27 in the King James version is, ‘David sustains his faith by the power of God.’ Potent beginning. Four times within these 14 verses he states the driving force behind, ‘David sustains…’ What is it that causes the power of God to show up? What is the driving force? What is it that motivates his confession, “The Lord is the stronghold of my life.” (v1)
One word. Seek. “My heart says of you, “Seek His face!” Your face, LORD, I will seek.” (v8) Often, we as God followers feel we are doing a just cause by ‘following’ God and His ways. And rightly so. However are we SEEKING Him in the full biblical sense? Not to be nit-picky but notice Davids heart tells him to seek God’s face, not His hand. Not what he can get from God, but wanting God Himself, His Presence.
We are instructed 35 times in the Old Testament alone to seek the Lord. The word seek is baqas, (pronounced ‘baw-kash) it is much more intense than just following. It conveys the idea of being driven, or even obsessed. The form of this Hebrew word is ‘present tense’, meaning you are NOW obsessively seeking the Lord. We are not putting if off for another day. A day when it is easier, convenient or even … more fun. (Dont let your eyes gloss over, this is GOOD!)
Multiple times it is said of those seeking the Lord, ‘prepare thine heart to seek God’ or ‘he set his heart to seek the Lord.’ It isn’t a hap-hazard take off running. It is full of purpose and positioning. This seeking is one of action; beseech and strive after. It connotes not only to search in earnest and to find it, but to SECURE it once it is found. In the negative, it was said of King Rehoboam, “He did evil because he had not set his heart on seeking the LORD.” (2 Chr 12:14) DUDE!
I know you know this verse, but please read it slowly: “For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the LORD, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. Then you will call upon Me and come and pray to Me, and I will listen to you. You will seek Me and find Me when you seek Me with all your heart. I will be found by you,” declares the LORD, “and will bring you back from captivity.” – Jer 29:11-14 David gives strong instruction: “And you, my son Solomon, acknowledge the God of your father, and serve Him with wholehearted devotion and with a willing mind, for the LORD searches every heart and understands every motive behind the thoughts. If you seek Him, He will be found by you…” – 1 Chr 28:9 I must add, to find God and Him being found by you, is an amazing word picture. It portrays the idea: In your search to come upon Him, in a meeting setting, you are present in His presence. Amen! Present in His presence.It’s a NOW thing! Not only are we told to seek God, but seek Him FIRST!
The New Testaments equivalent to baqas, is ekzeteo. (ek-zay-teh-o) To seek diligently or earnestly seek after. The author of Hebrews writes, “And without faith it is impossible to please God, because anyone who comes to Him must believe that He exists and that He rewards those who EARNESTLY SEEK Him.” (Heb. 11:6, emphasis mine)
Are we seeking God? Is it our earnest desire to do so. Do we purpose in such a way that nothing else matters, are we even obsessed (in a good way) about Him and His word? Are we reading His word, are we praying? What is it that sustains us? What consumes us?
My dear friend, DeDe Gibbs says, “Don’t let your idle time become idol time.” She is a marathon runner, running is her thing. Some would say she is obsessed with it. But to know her, is to know as she runs, it is her Jesus time. Often I see her commenting on what God showed her while on her run; Insights, bible verses, results of prayer time. She seeks her God. Seeking God in such a way, He is found by her.
If we too were to have a ‘line title’ over us like that of Davids Psalm, what would it read right NOW?
Seeking God.
In Him, DeDe (“Let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love & good deeds.” – Heb. 10:24)
In the Storm, He Got Up.
Did you know there are 12 (TWELVE !) documented types of storms? Each carry similar qualities, yet hold very unique elements. The list consists of ice, blizzard, snow, fire, dust, gale, wind, squall, (breathe) thunder, cyclone, hail and tornado. One thing is sure regarding a storm, we are not in control. All we can do is head for shelter and hang on!
Storms, the storms of life, metaphorically speaking, they can either make us or break us. I asked the Lord to show me the storm, then thought. “WAIT! Let me put some towels down first!” I have an amazing imagination. The disciples experienced a dandy of a storm. Mark chapter 4. In this story Jesus gathers the disciples and tells them “Let us go over to the other side.” (v. 35) Simple statement, so in the boat they go on the Sea of Galilee. Seemingly a normal journey across, but the narrative says, a furious squall arose. In Matthews account of this story he writes: “Without warning, a furious storm came up on the lake, so that the waves swept over the boat.” (8:24) A furious storm, the word he chooses to use is ‘seismos’, which literally means, ‘a shaking.’ It is the word we use to describe an earthquake of ‘seismic’ proportions. The violence of the storm shook the water in the lake creating waves that covered the boat and started filling it with water. A shaking. The disciples were … terrified. Recognize the reaction to the elements swirling around? Insecurity. Fear. PANIC!
The disciples on board, of these Peter, Andrew, James and John were all fishermen, seasoned men of the sea. These men knew how to handle a boat. 
Nevertheless, they too were afraid. One might say ‘even the pros get tossed to and fro.’ There is sad comfort in that, no one is exempt from the storms. No matter how well-educated, wealthy, attractive, experienced, even prepared, there WILL be moments the elements arise.
Jesus is asleep in the back of the boat. He wasn’t concerned of the danger out on the water, He could simply walk home (smile). The disciples cry out to Him, being rather worked up, basically saying, “We’re goin to DIE!” He stood up. “Quiet! Be still! I find it interesting that the wind and waves knew He was talking to them (and not the disciples) When He stood, He spoke and the storm calmed. It not only calmed but the forces of nature OBEYED Jesus. Here’s another interesting note, it says “There were also other boats with him.” (Mk 4:36) They weren’t alone out there! As the disciples cry out for Jesus, and He calms the sea, the sea calmed for the others as well. Our crying out to Jesus, and He working on our behalf DOES affect those around us!
Remember Jesus’ words of invitation, “Let us go over to the other side.” The other side. He would not have pointed to the other side if they were meant to DIE in the middle of the sea, in the middle of the journey. He says, “Let us go…” We are never meant to be in the storm alone. Jesus, in the boat, in the storm 
WITH them, with us to the other side.
When the calmness settled in, Jesus says to the disciples, “Why are you so afraid, do you still have no faith?” Oswald Chambers said: “What line of thinking do my thoughts take? Do I turn to what God says or to my own fears?” Moses writes “Be strong and of good courage, do not fear nor be afraid of them; for the LORD your God, He is the One who goes with you. He will not leave you nor forsake you.” (Deut. 31:6, Heb. 13:5 emphasis mine)
“He got up.” I love this. I want, NEED Jesus to arise in my boat, in the midst of MY storm. How about YOU? Do you have some shaking going on, is your life being swamped over by the elements swirling around you? Do you fear you will sink? When I pray for something serious, serious in the sense that this isn’t just a Goodnight prayer, or the prayer prior to a meal, I pray God stands up. He speaks! May you too say… in my boat, He stands, He speaks and the storm is calmed. (In Jesus name!)
BEWARE note: Immediately following the sea session, they come ashore and what do they now encounter? A demoniac man! Keep your eyes open folks!
He got up.
In Him, DeDe (“Let us consider how we may spur one another on towards love & good deeds.” – Heb. 10:24)
Coming Full Circle. Restored. Personal Testimony
Often within the church we speak of ‘restoration.’ Restoration of a marriage, a ministry, and life. Over the course of the last few years, following my failed marriage, stepping down from full-time ministry, single parenting, all which resulted in walking in a very dark season. Those who knew me best would offer encouragement, “God will surely restore you.” Lovingly I would smile, giving a nod of agreement with a flippant, “Thanks.” Later in the privacy of my own thoughts, frustrated and somewhat angry, I battled the image of an old tattered, stained, thread bare chair sitting in the corner needing ‘restoration.’ I would imagine the stripping off and replacing of the upholstery, sanding down the wood and re-painting and straightening the frame. The finished product would be the resemblance of a chair prior to any wear or tear. No longer any scuff marks on the legs, or worn cloth on the seat. It looked new. But was it?
I had come to desire I didn’t want to be taken back to how I was before all the ‘wear & tear’ on my life. As God began to rub His word again, His love and acceptance washed over me. I was taken to the life of King David, he too just a simple person, not flashy or fancy. One who loved his God and loved God’s word. A man with a calling and destiny on his life. He too walked through some dark times, yet God referred to him as “… a man after Mine own heart.” (1 Sam. 13:14) Some would argue that this was said of David at the beginning, when the baton was being passed from Saul to David. It wasnt inclusive of all his failures and poor choices. However, let’s look to a man who was a scholar of his time, a man who was well versed in Jewish writings. A man full of revelation of Jesus. He knew of the ‘rest of the story.’ Hundreds of years later he said this of David. “He (God) raised up unto them David to be their king; to whom also he gave testimony, and said, I have found David the son of Jesse, a man after mine own heart, which shall fulfil all my will.” – Paul, Acts 13:22 He wouldn’t quote God if it weren’t true.
I love David’s honesty, throughout the Psalms you can hear his heart. One that has held comfort for me is Psalm 51. “Have mercy on me, O God, according to your unfailing love.” (v1) “Create in me a pure heart, O God and renew a steadfast spirit within me. Do not cast me away from Your presence or take Your Holy Spirit from me. Restore to me the joy of Your salvation, and grant me a willing spirit to sustain me.” (v. 10-12) Can you hear the urgency? The longing?
“Create in me a pure heart…” David understands this ‘create.’ He knows that what he wants in his heart can ONLY be placed there by his God. Create, ‘bara’ is the Hebrew verb used exclusively of God. Sovereignty bringing into existence what wasn’t and now is. (DeDe’s definition) It is creating out of nothing. Genesis 1 paints the most beautiful display of God’s creative work. “In the beginning, God created.” Moses goes on to explain the creation event listing each portion, following it with “And God saw that it was good“.
‘Bara’ does not work like that of a recipe, taking ingredients and placing them together to form something new, like that of a cake. It is new materials, new results. David knew he didn’t have within himself, the ingredients (if you will) of what it took to have a pure heart. THAT is what I wanted! I began to pray this verse, crying out “CREATE! O God! Bring stuff into my heart, good God stuff, YOUR stuff, give me qualities exclusively of YOU!”
Today, shockingly as I revisited this, reviewing all my notes, looking at all the verses (ALL) I have come to one conclusion: In this journey of being re-created, that He has indeed …restored me. Oh there definitely was some ripping off and replacing, and some strong ‘straightening’ going on. Am I new? Yes. I have a new revelation of Jesus. I was restored to original intent. NOT back to where I left off, He took me back to the very beginning. The original intent of my life is one of relationship. Relationship with my God who keeps His promises. I found also in this pursuit that restoration in the truest form is so closely linked to peace. Peace can be defined as “Entering into a state of wholeness and unity, a restored relationship.” Shalôm describes the state of fulfillment which is the result of God’s presence.* (AMEN!) Over the course of the last few years, God’s unending love and faithfulness has created a marriage relationship for me with an amazing Godly man. Ministry is unfolding and life is warmly fabulous. I can honestly say, by the Holy Spirit I now have new materials, with new results! I can hear the faint whisper … “And God saw that it was good”.
Are we lacking peace, do we feel like the old tattered chair in the corner? Do we sense God’s presence? What do we need/want in our lives that we KNOW that it is only God that can call it into existence. May we continually come to Jesus “O create and place in me today __________ .”
He is faithful.
Coming full circle. Restored.
In Him, DeDe (“Let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love & good deeds.” – Heb. 10:24
*Theological Wordbook of the Old Testament
Treasure it up for Another Time, People and Purpose
Within the Jewish community, it is tradition that King David was the author of Psalm 119. He used this psalm to teach his young son Solomon the alphabet—but not just the alphabet for writing letters: the alphabet of the spiritual life. In these 176 verses, the full focus is on God’s word. Some 155+ times: Word, law, statues, commands, precepts, decrees are used. Each statement brings strong conviction, “Your statues are my heritage forever, I stand in awe of Your laws, The unfolding of Your words gives light, My heart trembles at Your word, All Your commands are righteous.”
I want to bring attention to verse 11, “I have hidden Your word in my heart that 
I might not sin against You.” Besides the amazing ability in having His word readily within us to always align our thoughts, behaviors, it has beautiful imagery. Conveying what is being held is of great value, (“Your Word“) so valuable that it needs protecting. It refers to holding something, covering it, saving it for another person or time and purpose. Let’s read that again, “I have hidden Your word in my heart that I might not sin against You.”
Moses was ‘hid’ when he was born, Pharoah sent out a decree that all Hebrew baby boys were to be thrown into the Nile at birth. Pharoah was a bit neurotic, concerned that the Hebrews were going to out number the Egyptians and soon over take them, “Do away with them!” So his mother hid him for three months, then as he grew, she needed to hide him among the reeds in the Nile. (Ex. 1 & 2)
The spies sent by Joshua “Go, look over the land, especially Jericho.” The King of Jericho got word the spies were there, sending folks to look for them. Rahab knew these men represented God and NOT to be messed with,”I know that the Lord has given this land to you… for the Lord your God is God in heaven above and on the earth below.” She hid them and protected them. (Joshua 2 & 3) In both situations they were hidden and protected for a different time, for the lives of people, another purpose. Moses to deliver the Israelites from captivity, Rahabs’ whole family was saved because she protected the spies and the spies gave reports of promise, “The Lord has surely given the whole land into our hands; all the people are melting in fear because of us.”
So we too hide God’s word in our heart, there will come a time when that word that has been covered and protected will be needed and used. The Holy Spirit will use the words that we have read, mediated on and hid in our heart and mind. Those rhema words WILL bring deliverance, promise and life as we speak them to another.
“Open thou mine eyes, that I may behold wondrous things out of thy law.” Ps 119:18 ” As we read God’s word, remember, it is not only for today, but we treasure it up for another time, people and purpose. “I have hidden Your word in my heart .”
In Him, DeDe (“Let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love & good deeds.” – Heb. 10:24)
- Geek Side Note: Psalm 119, the longest chapter in the bible with 176 verses. It is known as an acrostic poem, the verses are divided up into 22 stanzas, one for each of the 22 characters in the Hebrew alphabet. Each of the eight verses in each stanza begin with the same Hebrew letter. Fun facts to share with your friends. Now YOU can answer that trivia question “For $200 Alex Trebek!”
Inspired Fountain 