Left-Handed
Happy “International Left-handers Day.” Yes, it’s an annual celebrated day, established in 1976. Studies suggest that approximately 10% of the world’s population is left-handed.
Lefties…
• Use the right side of the brain the most.
• Twice as likely to be a man.
• Better at multitasking.
• Of the eight most recent U.S. Presidents, four have been left-handed.
• Less able to roll their tongue than a righty (fun facts to share with your friends).
What does the Bible say about being left-handed? In the Hebrew “left-handed” is itter and only mentioned two times in scripture (Judges 3 & 20) and literally means “not of the right hand”—thus, left-handed.
Judges 20: In short: There was a very icky situation and due to it, war broke out between the tribe of Benjamin and all the rest of the tribes of Israel. “Among all these were 700 chosen men who were left-handed…” (v16). These lefties were in addition to 26,000 gathered men of the tribe of Benjamin. “Chosen” is a keyword. The Benjamites went looking for left-handed men.
WHY?
Back up to Judges 3. Israel had again went about doing “evil in the eyes of the Lord” (Boooo!) God allowed the bad king Eglon of Moab to help teach the Israelites a lesson. A lesson through warfare. Israel cried out to God, and He sent Ehud (of the tribe of Benjamin) who just happened to be left-handed. Left-handed Ehud goes on to defeat the bad king. (YAY!) Moab became subject to Israel and there was peace in the kingdom for 80 years. (Ahh!) All of Israel knew the story of the left-handed Benjamite—Ehud!
THAT is why the Benjamites went looking for lefties—in hope of having a military advantage. They were known for being able to “sling a stone at a hair and not miss” (Judges 20:16). But the Benjamites, however, did lose the battle. Guess the lefties missed. (Oops!)
Although interesting left-handed facts, what a lesson for us, a true principle to help guide us. We can’t always reach from our past in hope that what worked before will work now. God used the left-handed man to show the Israelites that when they are in fellowship with Him, He takes the least (one man) and makes the MOST. His lessons take on a new angle with each battle. Left-handed or right-handed, new battle, new battle plan. God’s plan.
Side note: Throwing in Jewish custom/culture: Right opposed to left: When offering a blessing, the right hand is extended (I.e. Genesis 48, Jacob blessing Joseph’s sons, he crossed his arms). Also, the “right” parts of the body play an important role in sacrifices (see Leviticus) such as the right thigh, right ear, right thumb. The “right” generally expressed strength such as the “right hand of God” (Ex. 15:6, 12; Isa. 62:8; Ps. 17:7) and which was worthy of the Psalmists’ praises (Ps. 98:1; 118:15, 16).
If the left is considered weak (as opposed to the right/strength) it is quite ironic that after the Israelites turned back to God, He chose the weak handed man Ehud to deliver them.
*Empathetic Disclaimer: Please know, being left or right-handed does not determine value! Left-handed vs right is more symbolic than anything.
In Him, DeDe (“Let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love & good deeds” – Hebrews 10:24).
Distracted
Recently I heard a most profound statement. While out blueberry picking, the farmer handed me a bucket and waved me off down the trail, pointing out beyond where I stood. He told me where the best picking was. He closed with “And don’t get distracted on the way.” Meaning, you’ll see berries, but if you want the BEST, and lots of them–keep going. Stay focused!
It was true. As I walked the dusty isles between the mounded rows of bushes, yes, there were beautiful blueberries scattered here and there. But as I took a closer look, they had been picked over. I could tell other folks stopped here, at the very beginning of the field and picked. So did the next picker and the next. They didn’t journey out, they stopped at the first sight of berries. I would venture to say, some may have grown frustrated, thinking, the berries weren’t ripe yet (since primarily only green berries were left where they stood) and not going forth caused their perspective of the field to be lacking.
As I picked handfuls of plump berries (at the other end of the field) I thought about how true his statement was. How often in our daily lives are we venturing along and “Oh, looky there.” Full stop.
Distracted.
Before we know it, we have dropped our (metaphorical) road map and we are all over the place. Distractions give way to swerving. Swerving gives way to detours. Yielding to distraction burns up time, energy and not to mention (but I will)—loyalty. How many of us can look back and grieve wasted time, breach of loyalty to our God? Distractions keep us and delay us from the best!
King Solomon, the wisest biblical guy wrote: “Look straight ahead and fix your eyes on what lies before you. Mark out a straight path for your feet; stay on the safe path” (Proverbs 4:25-26, NLT). What wonderful imagery. The idea isn’t a quick glance but conveying someone who studies what is ahead. Once understanding what is ahead, the plan is weighed out and the best route is calculated. Solomon goes on to say, “Don’t get sidetracked.”
Distracted.
The Pastor of the book of Hebrews wrote: “Let us run with endurance the race God has set before us. We do this by keeping our eyes on Jesus, the champion who initiates and perfects our faith” (12:1b-2, NLT). THIS is our specifically designed, God set before us “mark out a straight path” —plan.
What is it that distracts us most? What distracts us the quickest? What time waster consumes us? How, where are we spending our energy? Do we too stop and attempt to fill our bucket, all the while there is abundance further out in the field?
Point to ponder.
Life is like a berry patch. Look straight ahead. Fix your eyes. Mark out the straight path. Jesus.
Don’t get distracted.
In Him, DeDe (“Let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love & good deeds” – Hebrews 10:24).
Sovereign
When we think of the book of Jonah, what first comes to mind? Jonah and a big puking whale? As miraculous as that was, (not the puking part mind you, but the “in the belly of the fish three days and three nights” survival part – 1:17, 2:10). There is something much more spectacular if we were to take one step back and see the story framed from a distance.
To sum it up in one word, “Sovereign.” Supreme or ultimate in authority and power.
God is Sovereign.
He does what He wants. When He wants. How He wants and with whom He wants. And yes, where He wants. God has it all covered!
Jonah.
Jonah was a reluctant missionary prophet, (a contemporary of the book of 2 Kings). He was initially unwilling to go and do as God said. He didn’t like the Ninevites. God was sending him to the capital of the pagan, Gentile, powerful, Assyrian empire—his enemies (big bad, icky, mean, and evil people). After the thrown overboard and fish excursion, (scholars believe the fish deposited Jonah right back where he started—God didn’t offer a shortcut) when he finally got to Nineveh, he simply declares his 5-word sermon, “40 days and Nineveh shall be overthrown” (3:4).
The Ninevites repent and God honored their repentance, and they find His mercy.
In this story, these four short chapters (48 verses) declare how God commissions. How He patiently waits. Shows His divine steering. Displays His “I mean what I said.” Then eventually His lavishing 2nd chance. Not to mention (but I will) how He provides visual aids to get Jonah’s attention (disastrous storm, throwing sailors, fish, repentant city, plant, worm, and a scorching east wind). All flowing out from His character of compassion and gracious, slow to anger, abounding in love and faithfulness (Ex 34:6b). And yes, His justice to a person—and ultimately, a people group.*
God moved.
How many times have we been reluctant for any reason to obey God? Oh, we have our rationalizations* – our excuses. We draw out the lengthy diagramed blueprint of “WHY” we can’t or why (without saying it out loud)—we won’t. “FINALLY,” one of the key words to help summarize the story of Jonah. Perhaps we too need a finally in our story! May we (like Jonah) know, God means what He says, “You can do it My way or My way.” It is His way.
Yet may we notice too, God writes ‘turn around’ narratives and He graciously offers second chances within re-commissioning (3:1-2). When God calls us to something, He is faithful to see us through. To be frank folks, others are depending on our obedience!
God’s commissioning. Patience. Divine steering. His most gracious 2nd chances. His beautiful (non-coincidence) visual aids. If we are in what seems to be a weird season, look. Look for His visual aids, look for His hand pointing.
Does this resonate? It does for me.
God is Sovereign.
In Him, DeDe (“Let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love & good deeds – Hebrews 10:24).
*The Ninevites chose to go back into their sinful lifestyles, despite the very generous reaching of Yahweh. He patiently waited for them to return—for a bit. He waited 150(ish) years. Then He sent another prophet, Nahum. Jonah was initially unwilling, going to a willing people. Nahum who was willing, went to (a grown to be) unwilling people. Nineveh was eventually destroyed. God is Sovereign.
*Rationalizations are invented explanations that hide or deny true motivations, motivations that eventually lead to action. They are excuses people give while embracing grey areas, to the extent in attempting to avoid judgement. Simply, rationalizing, is the action of attempting to explain or justify our behavior or mindset. (Summary from Psychology Today)
Maturing Process
Anyone besides me, feel like their timeline has been messed with? It’s like playing “Pin the Tail on the Donkey” as we struggle trying to find when something happened, “Was it before, or maybe during Covid… I don’t remember.” This and the economic and political climate. The moral downward spiral of our country. And personal happenings in our families. We’ve had a few rough years! Years that if we were honest, we could say—it changed us.
But in this time, I am confident we all have learned something new about God or something re-affirming about His character. What about learning something about ourselves? If we are truly honest, we’ve seen a strength, a challenge, a weakness or even maybe, a sinful life pattern.
Tough times are an opportunity to learn. An opportunity to grow.
A proverb is a stated truth or offering of advice. “Without wise leadership, a nation falls” (Pro 11:14a – couldn’t resist). There is one modern proverb familiar to us all, “When life gives you lemons—make lemonade.” When life comes at us fast. When the unknown stares us in the face. When life is bitter. Make—lemonade. Use it. Make something good out of it.
We have a choice. We can attempt to hide or run. We can ignore it all or deny it’s happening. Or we can position ourselves for opportunity. Joy-filled opportunity.
James talks about this, “Dear brothers and sisters, when troubles come your way, consider it an opportunity for great joy. For you know that when your faith is tested, your endurance has a chance to grow. So let it grow, for when your endurance is fully developed, you will be perfect and complete, needing nothing” (James 1:2-4, NLT – emphasis mine).
Notice James emphasizes “let it grow.” Do-not-stop-the-process. Don’t stop it pre-maturely. In our current society, endurance (perseverance or steadfastness) is not a strong point. When things get tough, we bail out. We quit. We just sit down. Not to mention (but I will) how many of us have sabotaged the growth process because we knew it could be painful. It could be a boatload of emotional, physical, and spiritual work.
Joseph of the OT is a great example of making something good out of bitter lemons. His brothers (out of jealousy) threw him in a pit and later sold him as a slave (yup, bitter tasting). It gets even more sour for him; he is falsely accused, imprisoned, and forgotten. Rough times indeed. He himself didn’t grow bitter; he grew—better. What do I mean by that? Joseph embraced the process. Stayed obedient to his God. He didn’t let the trials ruin him.
Testimonies are birthed in trials.
God is a God of detail. He sees it ALL. Knows it all. I would offer, He says, “I can use this in your life, I can use it – if you will let Me.” Embrace and work the process. God used it all. All the ick. All the trying times to mature Joseph. He ultimately used Joseph to save Egypt in the big famine. He used Joseph to graciously restore his family. Remember what he said to his brothers “You intended to harm me, but God intended it all for good.” (Genesis 50:20. Read his whole story, chapters 37-50). What would have happened if Joseph gave up in the middle of it all? (Point to Ponder).
James didn’t stop when saying, let it grow, the maturing process God is working in and through you, he continues; (I’m paraphrasing) “but if you lack wisdom in the process, you need help in handling the trials? Ask God for wisdom.” Wisdom is God-given and God-centered discernment regarding the practical issues in life. I’ve heard it said that true wisdom is applying God to my situation. The bible refers to Solomon as the wise guy, the guy who wrote all those wise proverbs. Why was he so wise? He asked for it (1 Kings 3:5-12; 2 Chron 1:7-12).
I am challenged by this. May we see each season with joy as an opportunity to learn and grow from it. May we not be lazy in the maturing process. Don’t stop. Let it grow! Seek God’s wisdom. I am not belittling ANY pain, but what we learn from THIS tough season, what is grown in us, we take into the next one. Jesus is enlarging our capacity for Him, enabling us to see HIM more clearly. Live Him more clearly —all for His glory!
When life gives you lemons (count it all joy) and make some lemonade!
In Him, DeDe (“Let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love & good deeds” – Hebrews 10:24).
*There is so much more to be said, this is an excerpt from the teaching I brought at our June Women’s Breakfast at church. Each gal was given a “Joy Jar” to remember all that was shared, summarized, “When life gives you lemons, make lemonade.”
Pitched
I do puzzles on my iPad, it’s less messy and I can easily store the puzzle away. The part I enjoy most is when I slide the pieces around, looking for just the right fit. But then—they click into place. With a little effort, one piece at a time, all the pieces creating a beautiful picture.
This is what I love about the Word of God. God so wonderfully orchestrating the fitting of pieces, “all the pieces creating a beautiful picture.” Not long ago in my study time I saw the pieces click into place—amazing! I was looking at Leviticus 9:7, Moses to Aaron “Come to the altar and sacrifice your sin offering and your burnt offering and make atonement for yourself and the people” (NIV). Looking at the word “atonement” I went directly to the law (or principle) of first mention. Meaning, I went to the first time that word (doctrine or concept) is mentioned. The first mention often sets the tone for further usage.
Here’s what I found. Here’s what I love.
Atonement (“kapar” in Hebrew) is used 102x in the OT. The 1st time it is used is in Genesis 6—the flood story. “Wait. What?” I know, right? The flood. When God gave Noah the building instructions, He was very specific in the wood and to “pitch” it inside and out (v14). Pitch is kapar. What beautiful imagery. To pitch means to cover, to smear, even to caulk, waterproofing, sealing any gaps or seams. To “pitch” is prevention against water and unwanted pests and erosion from entering or affecting the material. Pitching changed the nature of the Ark; it was now waterproof inside & out. When God had Noah pitch the Ark, he was protecting and covering the remnant that He was making covenant with.
THAT literally is atonement. In Leviticus it speaks of Aaron the Priest who took a bull (killed it) then took the blood and atoned with it on the altar. The blood covers. It appeases. It pacifies the anger of a holy God against sinful man.
JESUS. He came to take care of it all. His blood covers and fills any gaps. His blood fully satisfies God—we are fully reconciled to God. And yes, our nature too is changed. We are covered and protected in the covenant. All this making us—fully pitched. Wouldn’t it make a great bumper sticker “Got Pitched.”
One piece at a time, all the pieces creating a beautiful picture.
Pitched.
In Him, DeDe (“Let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love & good deeds” – Hebrews 10:24).
*See: Gen 6:14; Lev 4, 17:11; Ro 3:25; Heb 9:12,22; 1 Jn 2:2, 4:10; Rev 1:5.
Giants to Slay
“Saul said to David, “You are not able to go against this Philistine to fight with him, for you are but a youth, and he has been a man of war from his youth” (1 Samuel 17:33, emphasis mine).
I LOVE the story of David and Goliath. Big nasty dude yelling stupid things about God and God’s people. But one day a boy comes to camp. Goliath continues yelling, “This day I defy the armies of Israel! Give me a man and let us fight each other” (v10). Goliath is not just asking for any opponent; he wants a man. A grown, trained, mature, “give me a challenge” —man.
There is but one response. David. Scholars believe him to be about seventeen(ish) when he told King Saul “Send me.” Saul’s response basically says, “You are but a boy, an adolescent. The situation is beyond you—beyond what you are.”
Saul tries to get David to wear his suit of armor. “I cannot go in these” he says (v39). There was no hesitation on David’s part. There was no “give me a minute while I figure this out.” He takes his sling, stick and smooth stones and RUNS toward Goliath. I must add, Goliath’s shield-bearer was out there too (v41). Not so tough now big guy! David swung his sling, the stone hit the target. Down went the opposing giant of a man. Goliath called for a man. King Saul declares a mere boy. David did what God called him to do. Victory!
What is God calling us to?
May there be no hesitation in us when we are called beyond what we seem to be. Perhaps too young, untrained, too small. Or possibly too big, or too old. And maybe, like myself, as I was the former student with the “reading disability.” Graduating High School with a 4th grade reading level. Even so, I surrendered to His call on my life to teach His Word—calling me to the Book. He has healed my mind, what once didn’t make sense, now makes sense—and then some.
Chances are we’ll run into a Saul now and then, but don’t let them pull out their measuring stick and attempt to size us up, it has nothing to do with what God can do through us! Let us not begin a wardrobe change, trying to fit into someone else’s stuff. But take up what we know. His word. His presence and RUN toward what God calls us to. I’m sure if you wish to yell, “For Narnia!” God will understand.
We all have giants to slay. Now go.
In Him, DeDe (“Let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love & good deeds” – Hebrews 10:24).
Presence
God has been showing me and teaching me about His countenance—His Presence. Through David, the Psalmists, God instructs us to “seek His face.” We find this specifically in Psalm 27:8 “You have said, “Seek my face.” (David responds…) My heart says to you, “Your face, LORD, do I seek” (ESV, emphasis mine). We find it again in Psalm 105:3-4, “Let the hearts of those who seek the LORD rejoice! Seek the LORD and his strength; seek his presence continually!” In these latter verses we see “seek, seek, seek.” Seek Him. Seek His strength. Seek His presence continually. It isn’t a one and done deal, it is ongoing. What an exciting, yet in this wild and crazy busy world—a challenging command. A challenging demand.₁
David uses two Hebrew words to stress we are to “seek” God. Although the words differ, the sense is the same and could be paraphrased, “Carefully search for the LORD and His strength; continually and eagerly seek Him.
Now that we have the method (seeking). WHAT are we after? We are to seek—His face. Face means (as some Bible translations refer to it) as presence. Paniym (in Hebrew) interestingly represents not just the “face” but the whole person. When we seek God’s face and stand before Him, face to face, (metaphorically, spiritually) we get His “wholeness.” We have access to His countenance. ALL His qualities and features.
I felt God showed me it’s like those board cut outs we see at the fair, life size with a humorous picture on the front. As you stand behind it, you lean forward and put your face in the cut-out hole, all that is genuinely seen of you is your face, the rest is a sketched illusion.
May I offer to help paint the picture, God is conveying in the above verses; He wants us to step around the board cut-out (possibly our sketched perspective) and receive ALL of Him. This isn’t an irreverent move, or rash intrusion, but an invitation. Being in His presence, full-on front, with no barrier, the whole God package—we have His love, mercy, grace, wisdom and yes, His justice.
James wrote, “Draw near to God and He will draw near to you” (4:8a). The context is replacing our desire to sin with our desire to experience God’s presence and His availability and power to purify us. It is in His presence (slipping behind the board cut-out beyond just the face image) we have access to His wholeness. It is likened to when I stand face to face with a friend, I have access to their eyes, ears, mouth and even their hands. I have and see all their features. Yet, with this in mind, many of us take on the sketched illusion that God is mad at us and when in His presence, we only have His back—He is faced away. God is not mad at you; He is madly in love with you. We must look behind the perceived illusion and truly see Him.
It is amazing how (and expect it) the enemy knows we’re heading to “seek Him” – he’ll do anything to keep us from God’s Presence. We need to be Presence seekers, abiders and “fight for it” kingdom members!
Presence.
In Him, DeDe (“Let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love & good deeds” – Hebrews 10:24).
*I recently spoke on “Emotional Freedom” at our women’s conference, this is an excerpt from that teaching. (Click this link for part one: https://inspiredfountain.com/2022/03/13/before-you-pray-them-away/ and part two: https://inspiredfountain.com/2022/03/18/storm/ ).
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1A command is an order and comes with authority. Demand is a firm request that does not come from a position of power. God gave the command; we demand of ourselves; it in our response and behavior—we seek HIM! So yes, in this wild and crazy busy world—a challenging command. A challenging demand.
Promotional Picture above from Oriental Trading
Remember
Remember.
We might say we need to remember that Lincoln is the capital of Nebraska for the seven across answer on a crossword puzzle. Or remember that in “1492 Columbus sailed the ocean blue” to help our children with their homework. Facts. Mere facts.
However, remembering in the Bible is different. It is mentioned some 235+ times. Jewish culture treats remembering as a behavioral response. Conveying that hearing and obeying are synonymous. In the Hebrew, it literally means “to properly mark, so as to recognize.” The recognizing demands a response. The first mention is found in the story of Noah. God puts Noah, his family, and the animals in a big boat. Outside, the rains are in a downpour. The waters rise and the boat stays afloat for many days. “But God remembered Noah and all… and He sent a wind over the earth and the waters receded” (Genesis 8:1). God remembered. Did He temporarily forget? No. The Omniscient God (All-knowing) does not forget. His plan was implemented and in process. He remembers, He rescues, and He acts. God marked Noah. Genesis 9, the ark now sits on dry ground. Noah and family are out, and the animals disperse. God promises to not do THAT again—promise to not destroy everything with water. Sealing the deal, He gives a rainbow as a reminder.
“I have set My rainbow in the clouds, and it will be the sign of the covenant between Me and the earth. Whenever I bring clouds over the earth and the rainbow appears in the clouds, I will remember My covenant between Me and you and all living creatures of every kind. Never again will the waters become a flood to destroy all life. Whenever the rainbow appears in the clouds, I will see it and remember the everlasting covenant between God and all living creatures of every kind on the earth” (9:13-16 NIV, emphasis mine).
The sign of the rainbow was a reminder—to GOD. Even though mankind seems to always keep mucking it up, continuing in disobedience—yet when the bow appears, He remembers. His response will be consistent with His covenant.
Remember.
Isaiah speaks on behalf of God, “I, even I, am He who blots out your transgressions, for My own sake, and remembers your sins no more” (Isaiah 43:25). He Himself declares before Moses, “The LORD, the LORD God, merciful and gracious, longsuffering, and abounding in goodness and truth” (Exodus 34:6). Oh, the glorious mystery of His mercy, of His grace! God’s response is consistent with His character.
God often directs His people in the Old Testament to remember their past and all that He had said and done for them: “Remember that you were slaves in Egypt and the LORD your God redeemed you… Remember the Sabbath… Remember the law…” Why? So, their behavioral response would reflect relationship, they are His. Remember.
Jesus also speaks of remembering. The Last Supper: Jesus instructs the disciples to take the bread and the cup, representing His body and blood and “Do this in remembrance of Me” (Luke 22, 1 Corinthians 11). His intent was not assuming we’d forget Him throughout the week, and as we walk into church, seeing the elements up front, and think, “Oh, that’s right, I forgot about Jesus.” No, when we come to the table, and partake of the bread and wine, we remember—we remember ALL that He is, all that He did. We remember His covenant, His character. And yes, He expects a response. We properly mark, honor and recognize God, a response of worship, and of lifestyle.
Whatever it may take for us to remember, to invoke a Godly response—do so. I am right-handed, on my right little pinky finger, I wear a simple gold ring. I wear it to remind me, that whatever I reach for in life, it had better be under the authority of God’s character, and it be in line with God’s covenant.
Remember. Behavioral response.
In Him, DeDe (“Let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love & good deeds” – Hebrews 10:24).
Seeing Them
“Let each of you look not only to his own interests, but also to the interests of others.” Paul, letter to the Philippians (2:4).
I am reminded of a morning while driving to work a few years ago. Cruising along, the traffic seemed heavier than normal for 5:15am. Looking in my rear-view mirror, I saw the pretty orange lights of a big rig truck behind me. The poor guy was trying to maneuver through the morning commute. Cars full of folks that I am confident had not yet been caffeinated to complete awareness of their surroundings. Like that of a Chess game, I figured if I move over one lane, then move forward around this little white car, I could make room for the big truck to make his move. Off I went. Doing so, the truck driver saw the “move” and made his own advance. As we continued down the road for a few minutes, just as I began my exit off the freeway, the truck driver passed on by, but NOT before reaching his hand out with a hardy wave of “Thanks.”
Do we look and see those around us? Are we aware? Do we CARE? Do we see the need and heed? Or do we see and ignore with a hastily “Go around me!” Paul speaking to the Christians in Phillipi, proceeding the above verse stating: “Make me truly happy by agreeing wholeheartedly with each other, loving one another, and working together with one mind and purpose. Don’t be selfish; don’t try to impress others. Be humble, thinking of others as better than yourselves” (vv2-3, NLT).
As we cruise through this life—may we be aware. May we take time to look and see how we can help others. When was the last time we made a conscious effort to look into the eyes of those we are with? May we offer a smile to the cashier and ask her how her day is going, looking at her nametag and calling her by name. May we hold the door while another carries heavy bags of groceries.
Our words of encouragement don’t need to be big and profound, a simple text of “Thinking of you” can go a long way. Perhaps, when possible, hold them, laugh with them, cry and pray.
Seeing them.
In Him, DeDe (“Let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love & good deeds” Hebrews 10:24).
The Pattern
The trendy slogan “What Would Jesus Do” from the 1990’s has pretty much faded away, yet the principle is true. The principle is good. Following what Jesus did is always the safest, the smartest, the most impacting—the BEST way to go.
Peter knew this.
Jesus.
Jesus is told by an agonized father; that his daughter is very sick (Mark 5). Soon, some men from Jairus’ house came with the news, “Your daughter is dead. Why trouble the Teacher any further?” Taking Peter, James and John, Jesus goes with them to Jairus’ home. There was a great commotion with loud weeping and wailing. Sending them all out (ah…quiet) Jesus took just the mother, the father and the three disciples. Taking the little girl by the hand, He said, “Little girl I say to you, arise.” Immediately her life was restored. All were overcome with amazement (vv22-42). Peter was there—he watched Jesus.
Peter.
Peter was in Lydda when he was sent for (Acts 9). Tabitha, a good woman, a disciple of Jesus has died. Peter went to Joppa. When at the home where Tabitha’s body lay, he asked everyone to leave the room, the loud mourners were sent out (ah…quiet). “Tabitha, arise” he said. Her life was restored. Taking her by the hand, he helped her up. He called the friends and family back in, seeing her, the news spread throughout the village, and many believed in the Lord (vv 36-42).
When the situation seemed hopeless, Jesus went. Peter too. Jesus told the noise to leave. Peter too. Jesus declared “Arise!” Peter too. Jesus extended His hand. Peter too. In both scenarios, life was restored.
Jesus was Peter’s pattern.
A pattern is a model or design used as a guide. When Jesus called His disciples, He said, “Follow Me.” Jesus—the ultimate Guide.
Life can be filled with twists and turns. Known and unknowns. Joy and frustrations. What a gift God gave us to watch and learn from Jesus as He navigated the roller coaster ride of humanity. He was quiet when needed. Spoke boldly when required. Slipped away for Father time. Loved unconditionally. Pardoned the guilty. He confronted the lies. Taught among confusion. He led with righteousness.
This year, may we look to and reach for THE Pattern. Choose our steps, make our decisions, speak, love, confront, slip away for Father time—as Jesus did. Impacting. What grace was gifted to us, may we extend the same to others.
In Him, DeDe (“Let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love & good deeds” – Hebrews 10:24).
Peace
Have you ever felt a shrug of heart, you know that “Blah” feeling? Perhaps the blah is leading to anxiety or even agitation. The only way to put it into words is “I’m off, just… off.” May I offer, something may have shifted. Shifted from the sidelines to the seat; something/someone is now sitting on the throne of our heart. This, my dear friend is found deep in the factory setting in the design of man, a component known as the Peace Barometer. (Okay, maybe not—but that is what I call it).
Peace.
In the Old Testament, the word for peace (Hebrew) is shalom. In short, meaning tranquility, harmony, wholeness. It has been referred to as evidence of not having strife or war. I would define peace not necessarily in what you do not have, but in what you do have. Let’s give a nod to the New Testament: The word for peace (in Greek) is eirene, which literally means “to set at one.” The picture is something that was once set in place has either been removed or toppled over (think of the game Jenga, remove foundational pieces and over it goes) chaos, strife, irritation even war are the results. Once it is set back in place—PEACE reigns.
Here’s a brief (VERY brief) explanation: Remember God and man (and Eve) in the Garden, their relationship was good and whole (peace-filled). Then there was a sin outbreak, the relationship was broken—toppled over. For generations (begetting) generations there was a missing element, what was, is no longer. Later Isaiah speaks of the coming of the Prince of Peace and the government resting on His shoulders (9:6). Fast forward to Luke chapter 2, the angels announce, “Glory to God in the Highest and on earth peace…” (v14). Peace was back on earth among man. Jesus is the missing piece (peace). He came bridging the gap (which was big and ugly) between man and his God. He set it all back in place. Relationship restored. God the Father planned it. God the Son accomplished it. God the Holy Spirit applied it. The God package delivered. PEACE REIGNS.
Paul writes, “Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts…” (Col. 3:15). Here’s where the peace barometer comes in: If God is not ruling on the throne of our heart, be assured another will occupy it! We will know peace to the degree that we YEILD to Christ, the Prince of Peace, if NOT—chaos, strife, irritation.
Paul again, “Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, PRESENT YOUR REQUESTS TO GOD, and the peace of God which transcends all understanding will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus” (Phil. 4:6-7, emphasis mine). Presenting to God means, we are NOT to go looking for solutions elsewhere. If we do, we can potentially be placing things on the throne that shouldn’t be there. Our peace barometer will TILT if Jesus is not the center of our life, the One residing and reigning on the throne of our heart. Peace is not about peaceful circumstances; it’s about yielding to the presence of Christ. Let’s cut to the chase: God doesn’t come to take sides (help sort out our stuff) He comes to TAKE OVER. It is His design, His throne.
“May the God of Peace who makes everything… holy and whole, make YOU holy and whole, put you together–spirit, soul and body” (1 Thess. 5:23, paraphrased, The Message). God the Maker—God at the center—God on the throne.
How is our peace barometer? What is the condition of the throne of our heart? What is there? Who is there?
Peace.
In Him, DeDe (“Let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love & good deeds” – Hebrews 10:24).
God is in the Not
Expectation. “A strong belief that something will happen” (so says Webster’s Dictionary). I’d offer, we generally take it further. We not only believe it will happen, but we list out HOW, WHEN, and WHERE. We define the outcome. Once the occasion has come, we hold it up to our expectations and scrutinize as if looking at a counterfeit bill with squinted eyes.
Our expectations (although good at times) can be a distraction.
Recently I went through some health issues, and still recovering. What an amazing learning season. As I was preparing for an upcoming surgery, I was rather anxious. Taking Paul’s divine inspired words to heart, “Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God” (Phil 4:6, NIV). I prayed. I prayed specifically. I prayed the surgery would be “textbook.” I prayed with heartfelt longing. I wanted God’s best. I wanted Him.
Thanking God—off we went.
Following the surgery, the surgeons came in and said everything went well, one stated (without any prior prompting) “It was textbook.” (Check √). As some time went on, I grew exhausted. In my exhaustion, I picked up my “expectation list” and began to review it. Running my finger down the list, I was looking for that warm—wrapped—in—blanket—presence of God. I didn’t sense it. I had in the past. Where were You God? Where are You?
When we ask God pointed questions, be ready for an answer.
“Besides the textbook surgery (I can almost see God winking) … How was your pain level, were you in pain?” No, I was not. “Were there complications?” No, there was not. “Are the doctors concerned for the outcome?” Nope, they are not. “Will there be any long-term limitations?” No—not.
God is in the not.
So often we look for highlighting moments worthy to write in our journals. Things, events that stand out as extraordinary (There WILL be those). But, how often we fail to see, in the quiet, tucked behind our personal hype—God working. God orchestrating like only He can.
Through all this, I have asked God to move me beyond MY expectation, to true anticipation: awaiting, preparing, longing to see how HE moves. King David wrote: “Let the morning bring me word of Your unfailing love, for I have put my trust in You. Show me the way I should go, for to You I lift up my soul…I hide myself in You. Teach me to do Your will, for You are my God; may Your good Spirit lead me on level ground” (Psalm 143:8-10). Putting my trust (unconditionally, without my advice) in God, WILL enable Him to “show me.” Giving myself, hiding myself in Him, enables Him to “teach me.”
THIS has been a “write in my journal” (if I had one) moment. Highlighted. Circled. Underlined. “Positioning ourselves according to OUR expectations distracts us, potentially missing God in the process.”
God is in the not.
Please know, YES, there are times we need to contend, to move beyond an appearing “No” (prayer, fasting, spiritual warfare) but there are times, we need to accept God working, giving Him glory.
In Him, DeDe (“Let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love & good deeds” – Hebrews 10:24).
A Reason for Thanksgiving
Turkey, dinner rolls, mashed potatoes, gravy, green beans, salad. (Breathe) Dinner plates, napkins, silverware, glasses, AND centerpiece. THANKSGIVING! I love this holiday. Food, family, and football. A set time to pause, consider and ponder what we are thankful for.
There are seasons when it may be difficult to pull forward on the shelf of our life something to be thankful for. We may have just lost a job or a loved one. Or our bank account matches our emotional bucket of strength—empty. Yet there IS something to be thankful for. You have a REASON for thanksgiving.
The great Psalm of thanks opens with, “Give thanks to the LORD for He is good” (136:1). The Hebrew language renders a beautiful word picture, “Give thanks…” painting the idea of reverent acknowledgment and of worship—with extended hands.
“His love endures forever.” The author found it needful to repeat this phrase twenty-six times throughout the rest of the Psalm. This word love (in Hebrew) is “hesed.” We know it biblically as mercy, goodness, loyalty and steadfast love and even—grace. What a pivotal word.
This mercy-filled love is enveloped in personal involvement and commitment to relationship. That is our God. He is pleased when it is reciprocated “For I delight in loyalty (hesed) rather than sacrifice, and in the knowledge of God rather than burnt offerings” (Hosea 6:6, emphasis mine). Our God desires faithful love in relational awareness of Him.
His lovingkindness is precious (Ps. 36:7) marvelous (Ps. 17:7) undeserving (Ps. 103) abounding (Ps. 86:5) reviving (Ps.119:159) satisfying (Ps. 90:14) and everlasting (Ps. 103:17). Thankful yet?
David’s well known and beloved Psalm 23 (v6) “Surely goodness and MERCY will follow me all the days of my life.” Mercy is hesed. This “follow” is not a mere tag along behind, but—PURSUIT. David knows the concept of pursuit. God’s unending, steadfast love, full of mercy, pursued David. He pursues us! He pursues YOU. He is unrelenting. Aren’t you GLAD He does not let up, let go! Reason for thanksgiving indeed! “Give thanks to the Lord for He is good. His love endures forever.”
As we share around the table amongst the laughter and love, the blessing of health and family, may we too declare, “Oh give thanks to the LORD, for He is good, For His lovingkindness is everlasting. Let the redeemed of the LORD say so…” (Psalm 107:1-2a)
From our table to yours. Thankful.
In Him, DeDe (“Let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love & good deeds.” – Hebrews 10:24)
Encourager
Encouragement, we all could use it now and then. Whether in the form of a kind word, loving gesture or standing along side us in troubled times.
Recently I was studying the conversion of Saul (known later as “Paul”) in Acts 9, when I ran head long into Barnabas. I love this guy. When Saul went to Jerusalem and attempted to have fellowship with the disciples, they were afraid and would not accept him. They didn’t believe him to now be a true disciple (a learner, in this case, a learner of Jesus, one who positions himself to understand, accepting the instruction given and makes it his rule of conduct). Saul’s prior “conduct” was contradictive of the teachings of Jesus. What was this man’s angle? The man who “breathed out murderous threats” (9:1), who now claims to be a Jesus follower and wants in their ranks.
- We tend to fear what we don’t understand, what we don’t see. They hadn’t seen any true evidence —yet.
“But Barnabas took him and brought him to the apostles” (v27). Barnabas, (Joseph) a Levite, he is first mentioned in Acts 4:36. He is nicknamed by the apostles “Barnabas” which means “Son of Encouragement” which is quite fitting as he introduced the newly converted Saul to the circle of believers. Barnabas also stood up for the young John Mark when Paul did not want to take him with them on their missionary journey (15:36-39).*
What did Barnabas see in Saul that the others didn’t? We can speculate till the cows come home, yet it seems to be Barnabas’ nature; he was an encourager (one who invokes courage with presence and action). After all, he did take Saul to the apostles, testifying that Saul HAD an encounter with Jesus and Saul “preached boldly in the name of Jesus” (v27b). I doubt Saul went kicking and screaming, but what a bold act for Barnabas, putting his own relationship/reputation on the line with the spiritual leaders for the former persecutor of the church now turned promoter.
Not only was Barnabas an encourager, but he was also a reconciler. Placing Saul before the church leaders, was an act of reconciliation, for Saul AND the leadership and the believing church. Reconciliation where there was once strife, hostility, and of recent, misunderstanding.
Jesus said, “Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called the sons of God” (Matthew 5:9). Many read that quickly and interpret it as “peacekeeper.” There is a difference between maker and keeper.
Peacekeepers listen, notice, pay close attention and draw others in (Group hug). Peacekeepers tend to the comfort of others, embracing both sides of an argument—equally. Attempting to please both sides, hoping to not rock the boat—playing a balancing act. But peacekeepers can make themselves small and keep their own voice quiet to avoid conflict, settling for a false peace in hopes of avoiding relational fallout.
Peacemakers promote God’s peace, (total well-being and wholeness through the redemptive work of Jesus) with “whatever it takes” tactics. It is active, intentional, and discerning. They engage in messy, back-breaking, work—and they don’t care so much whether anyone is comfortable (including themselves). Their goal is God’s goal. Bring what has been toppled over back into its slotted place, erecting God and God stuff at the center of it all, which is true peace.
Barnabas was an encourager, reconciler, and peacemaker. May we all have a “But Barnabas” in our life. May we all BE a “But Barnabas” for others.
In Him, DeDe (“Let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love & good deeds” – Hebrews 10:24).
* Paul later sees the good (and God) in Mark and makes mention of him (Col 4:10; 2 Tim 4:11; Phm 1:24).
Seasons Unaware
I love autumn, the crisp morning air, the weather changes from hot sunny days to now wrapping yourself in your favorite quilt. Oh, and those vibrant yellow, orange, and red leaves. I find it fascinating that so much beauty can come from a season of change.
Seasons.
With so much uncertainty in the world, there is however a guarantee, according to God’s design. There WILL be another season. Fall and eventually winter. Winter turns to spring, where again it carries new life bursting forth.
The Lord has shown me that just as the atmosphere changes (often it is packaged within the holiday season) we too can personally experience a change of season. This season comes with a potentially entangled set of habits or life patterns and not to mention (but I will) a set of emotions.
For some of us our season is lingering. The cold emotional winter drags on, and on and on. Or perhaps something triggers you and an unhealthy season reappears. A season of your life you were confident had passed. A season when you chose quite unwisely, and the memories haunt you like a hungry hyena. Or you flip the calendar page and there it is – THE month. The one you dread. The month you experienced betrayal or the death(s) of a loved one. *
I experienced something similar a few years ago. It was a beautiful sunny fall day. I was driving to my granddaughter’s school to pick her up. Once in the parking lot, backing up, parking, stepping out—instantly I stopped—feeling complete dread and sorrow. Then again walking towards the school. I asked God, “WHAT is this?” He reminded me, the same scenario; sunny day, cool and crisp, orange, and red leaves, school buses, and it was HERE! Here, I received a phone call with very traumatic news. Sorrowful news – stop in your track’s news. News that tore my family to its very core. It was all so familiar, in a way that I was not aware.
With this revelation, I knew this needed to be broken! “In Jesus’ name!” I couldn’t go through life filled with sorrow whenever the leaves changed. So, I took authority over the familiarity, over the dread, the sorrow. Breaking the emotional AND spiritual hold. The fall season still gives brief twinges of pain, but no longer holds its pain-filled traumatic grip on me.
God does not want us living in the past. Each new day is a gift. If we keep our hands full of the old stuff — there is no room for the new. And folks we got us some stuff. And if we are not certain what it is that is overwhelming us—ask God!
Times and seasons CAN be broken! Daniel praised God saying: “Praise be to the name of God for ever and ever. Wisdom and power are His. He changes the times and the seasons; He removes kings and raises up kings; He gives wisdom to the wise. And knowledge to those who have understanding. He reveals deep and secret things; He knows what is in the darkness, and light dwells with Him” (2:20-22).
Pray with me: “Father, may You reveal to us the seasons we may not be aware of. Seasons we only feel the effects. Show us. Perhaps it is time to lay a few things down, some habits, patterns and emotions. Empty our hands as we wait in expectant joy as You “… change the seasons.” Break the familiarity in JESUS’ NAME! Free us. Let there no longer be “stop in our tracks” unaware – but moving forward with each new day. With NEW stuff in our hands. Good God stuff. Your stuff. All for YOUR glory. Amen.”
Please know, we don’t forget. However, we allow ourselves to be freed from the heavy blanket of the past. God has new, restoring, healed, and healthy seasons.
- He changes.
- He removes.
- He gives.
- He reveals.
- He KNOWS!
*For my brothers, Jeremy and Jeff—when the fall season hurts. Yet, God!
He brings the new.
In Him, DeDe (“Let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love & good deeds” – Hebrews 10:24).
Selah, Pause & Praise
Our lives tend to ramble from one crazy thing to another in quick motion. Our pockets buzz with Twitter, Instagram, texting and of course Facebook. All the while #hashtagging each moment of each day. Our lives—on the go.
Fast.
Busy.
Tired.
I have one word, Selah.
“But Thou, O LORD, art a shield for me; my glory and the lifter up of mine head.
I cried unto the LORD with my voice and He heard me out of His holy hill.
Selah” – King David, Psalm 3:3-4
Selah is used seventy-four times in the Bible. All but three are in the Psalms, the others are in the Prayer of Habakkuk (3:3,9,13). The purest meaning of the word really is uncertain. A common thread however conveys Selah to be rendered from two Hebrew words: salah —to pause. The other, salal, meaning to praise.
Scholars creatively speculate: Selah, due to its poetic usage in the Psalms can refer to a musical or worshipful note indicating a transition. “Here, take a breath, here” (before moving on). It can be a crescendo (the high point in the gradual increase of intensity). Or it can be a musical interlude; a pause designed to disrupt or to draw attention (may I offer) draw attention in the pause. Pause leading to rest and reflect on the preceding words. Meditating on the depth of insight.
The Psalm above was written when David was being pursued by his “seeking the throne for his own” son, Absalom. He opens the Psalm with, “O LORD, how many are my foes! How many rise up against me! Many are saying, “God will not deliver him.” Selah.” Can you hear the earnest tone, the anguish of heart? Verse 3: “BUT YOU are my shield around me, O LORD, YOU bestow glory on me and lift up my head. To the LORD I cry aloud, and He answers me from His holy hill. Selah” (emphasis mine).
How many of us need to gracefully transition from one circumstance to another? Selah. Perhaps take note and appreciate the high point. Selah. When was the last time we stood still and took a breather, a serious breather —we paused and praised? Selah. When was the last time we rested and truly became aware of Who God is and what He is doing?
But You, O LORD. Selah.
An amazingly beautiful word. May we too find selah among the poetry of our lives. Pause and praise.
In Him, DeDe (“Let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love & good deeds” – Hebrews 10:24).
Intentional
Being intentional is defined as being committed to giving our attention to what is important to us. What we prioritize we are eager and ready to address.
King David was intentional when bringing the ark of God back to Jerusalem – the second time. The first attempt didn’t go so well. Things went terribly wrong. They loaded it up on a cart and headed out (2 Samuel 6). The oxen stumbled, Uzzah reached out to stabilize it, but “the LORD’s anger burned against Uzzah because of his irreverent act” – Uzzah died. He was not authorized to touch it (see Numbers 4/see also Leviticus 10:1-2, regarding “unauthorized”). The narrative states that David was not only angry but was also afraid – and now not willing to proceed. So much went wrong in that first attempt. Yes, David was zealous (ready & eager) but zeal alone, zeal without knowledge and what doesn’t have God’s approval – makes for a terrible mess. (Anyone? Or is it just me?)
David soon finds out that where he left the ark (with Obed-Edom) he and his whole family is being greatly blessed. David realizes perhaps the ark is not the problem. The problem was his transporting method. There was God-given instruction to be followed (Exodus 25:12-15, leave the poles in the rings, so that there would be no mistake on HOW to carry it – see also Joshua 3:3, the Levites carry the ark). David prioritized the ark of God and again committed to bringing it to Jerusalem, but this time he did it the right way. He was intentional. “It was because you, the Levites, did not bring it up the first time that the LORD our God broke out in anger against us. We did not inquire of Him about how to do it in the prescribed way” (1 Chronicles 15:13). The prescribed way. There was consecration, sacrifices and worship. They brought the ark to Jerusalem. The story goes on to say after all this, “The LORD had given him (David) rest from all his enemies around him” (2 Samuel 7:1).
David was also intentional about God’s presence, “I have set the LORD always before me. Because He is at my right hand, I will not be shaken” (Psalm 16:8). He was intentional about God’s word, “I seek You with all my heart; do not let me stray from Your commands. I have hidden Your word in my heart that I might not sin against You. Praise be to You, O LORD; teach me Your decrees” (Psalm 119:10-12).
Being intentional is prioritizing with a plan and putting that plan into practice.
One of the greatest enemies of the heart is regret. Disappointed over something that has happened or a missed opportunity. Regret what we did. Regret what we “didn’t.” May we all like King David, be intentional about the things of God. Our relationship with Him and with others. If needed, make some adjustments. Stay focused. Don’t get distracted. Do it His way. Be purposeful of His presence –His word. What a heartache if we heard the whispered “If only I had…” escape from our lips because we were not –intentional.
Intentional is the word for the year at our church. I love it. I have embraced it.
In Him, DeDe (“Let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love & good deeds” – Hebrews 10:24).
Ishmael Issues
Have you ever had a goal and then do a course alteration? But in doing so, you find there were huge ramifications with the change?
So it was with Abraham* of the bible. “The LORD had said to Abram, “Leave your country, your people and your father’s household and go to the land I will show you. “I will make you into a great nation and I will bless you; I will make your name great, and you will be a blessing. I will bless those who bless you, and whoever curses you I will curse; and all peoples on earth will be blessed through you” (Genesis 12:1-3, NIV).
So off he goes. Through some trekking and delays, he and his wife, Sarah* and Lot, his nephew, end up in Canaan. It was here God said, “To your offspring I will give THIS land” (v7, emphasis mine). He was home. Abraham built altars to the Lord and pitched his tent in many places within Canaan. Soon a famine comes. Abraham loads everyone up and leaves and goes to Egypt in hope of finding provision. He goes without God telling him to. You can almost hear God say, “Wait, where are you going?”
Once in Egypt, Abraham prompts Sarah to say she is Abraham’s sister (a half truth, she is his half-sister). Due to Sarah’s beauty, Abraham was safer as her brother, than her husband (as husband, he’d likely be killed). Sarah was taken into Pharaoh’s palace. Pharaoh at first treated Abraham well, because of Sarah. He gave Abraham sheep, oxen and donkeys. He also gave him male and female servants (Genesis 12:16). Personally, a gift certificate would have worked (just kidding).
This is where it gets interesting. Pharaoh finds out Sarah was Abrahams’ wife. Just in time. God protected Sarah (and her future offspring to be only from Abraham). They were sent out of Egypt with all Abe had acquired while there. Abraham acquired “female servants” – one was named Hagar (Genesis 16:1). To make a long story short: God had promised Abraham descendants, (Genesis 15:1-6) yet he and Sarah had no children. So, Sarah gave Hagar to Abraham to bear her a child (as was the custom of the day). Ishmael was born.
But Ishmael was not the true heir. Isaac – Abraham and Sarah’s birth son was the true promised heir of God (Genesis 17:15-21; 21:1-7). Ishmael and Hagar are later sent away and the Ishmaelites grow into the Arab countrymen we know today, which the majority (not all) make claim to follow Allah (which is NOT Yahweh) within the Muslim religion. Since then, there has been friction between the Jewish nation (and Christians) and a large community of Arab Muslim practicing people. The Muslims claim that their ancestor Ishmael was the heir to the promise (but the holy scriptures of the Bible state otherwise).
Course alteration.
If Abraham had stayed put in Canaan and trusted that God would take care of him, provide and protect him and not flee to Egypt – where he tried to fix things on his own, he would not have brought back Hagar. There would not have been an “Ishmael Issue.”
I find it fascinating that when Abe and crew were in Canaan, Abraham built altars to God (symbolic of worship) but while in Egypt there is no mention of altar building. Shouldn’t THAT have been a red flag for Abe? His situation, his location, his heart motive didn’t constitute worship for his God. He wasn’t where he was supposed to be – worship didn’t flow from it. If we can’t worship God where we are – we are in the wrong place. Abraham did go back to Canaan, where he again built an altar to the Lord (Genesis 13:12,18).
How many times do we try to fix things ourselves? Go where we are not directed to go. Even if the detour is meant to be temporary, anything away from God’s will, can prove disastrous. Endanger others. Perhaps go and bring back what was not intended for us. When we do, we too have Ishmael Issues. Consequences. Hardships. Even birth friction where not needed. True obedience is doing what God says, when He says, and how He says to do it. Any course altering is ultimately, disastrously, sadly – disobedience.
Course alteration.
In Him, DeDe (“Let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love & good deeds” – Hebrews 10:24).
*Abram’s name wasn’t changed until chapter 17, for familiarity’s sake I used Abraham. The same for Sarai, changed to Sarah.
Note: Canaan was the Promised Land – we see the history of the Israelites took quite a few detours and delays to get back home.
Know Your Weeds
Weeds. A weed is defined as a plant growing where it is not wanted or intentionally sown. A plant that competes or interferes with the activity of deliberately placed plants.
Weeds. God has been speaking to me about the weeds in our life.
Jesus speaks directly to the thorny weeds in the Parable of the Sower (Matthew 13, Mark 4, and Luke 8). A parable is a simple story used to illustrate a moral or spiritual lesson. The narrative states Jesus was teaching a large group of folks. His story telling of these four different scenarios would most definitely encompass them all. In this story, although mightily important, the Sower is not the focal point, he goes about sowing, scattering the seed at will. The seed, although powerfully essential, it too is not the prominent point. The point is the receiving ground.
Four Seeding Scenarios: First, the seed fell on the path, where it was trampled and became bird food. The second, the seed fell on rocky ground, where it sat in shallow dirt, exposed, receiving no nutrients or moisture, and dried up. The third, the seed was among the thorny weeds, the thorns choked out the seeded plants. The fourth, the seed fell on good ground, matured, producing fruit.
Notice the first two seedings don’t really hit the soil, they are on the path and rocks (external). The second two are “soiled” (internal). The seed, which Jesus explains is the Word of God, it is taken in – into the heart.
Yet. Weeds.
In that area, Palestinian weeds like these thorns can grow up to six feet in height and have a major root system. Regardless of the Godzilla size, the weeds compete for nutrients. This competing-choking literally means to suffocate. To suffocate is to halt the ability to thrive, to breathe, to live. Fascinating. The Word of God is “God-breathed” (2 Timothy 3:16).
Jesus goes on to explain, “The seeds that fell among the thorns represent those who hear the message, but all too quickly the message is crowded out by the cares and riches and pleasures of this life. And so they never grow into maturity” (emphasis mine, Luke 8:14, NLT).
Cares, riches and pleasures AND the word of God. Yep. Sounds crowded. Our worries, cares easily bleed into anxiety, which brings disruption to the mind, the heart and yes, the soul. Riches can be defined as seeking hard after “having the wants.” And pleasures, those distractions that pull our look elsewhere for gratification. Individually they are not bad. But. When they take time, effort and attention away from the Word, we end up having no time for it – no time for God.
Yes, weeds. “But all too quickly” they suck the ever-loving God stuff right out of our life. Our receiving ground starts strong – but the distractions come, the concern for spiritual things are crowded out by material things. The potential of fruit has just shriveled and never matured.
Weeds. What worries suffocate you? What are you seeking hard after? God, His word, or stuff? What distractions have you looking – what has your attention?
Know YOUR weeds.
How are weeds established? Literally, they are poop droppings (eewwWW) or they are blown in by the winds. They are brought in with fill dirt. How are they destroyed? They are pulled. They are dug deep and pulled, making sure you get the whole root, if not, the remains will continue to grow. They are pulled out before they have a chance to flower and reseed – multiply.
Weeds. Competing or interfering with the activity of the deliberately placed Word of God. Watch your dirt. Protect the seed. Do some weed pulling.
In Him, DeDe (“Let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love & good deeds” – Hebrews 10:24).
*Thank you to my Master Gardener friend Kathy B for your insightful advice on tending to weeds.
You Thrill Me
Thrill seekers, they go, they do. They do again. Just for the sake of experiencing something out of the ordinary. They fly high. Jump as to free fall. There are those who desire speed. Much is spent to seek this out and usually at a high price, which is only for a fleeting, temporary, high adrenaline – moment.
Life alone can be like a roller coaster ride. The ups and downs and hairpin turns. The un-expectancy of it all. No one needs to throw me out of a plane! I have, however, been on a wild ride. It doesn’t require a ticket or weeks of planning. BUT it does cost something. Me. All of me. This journey with God is a dandy. It offers excitement where not expected. Views I would not normally see and experiences only He can give.
One of my favorite bible verses is found in Psalm 92:4 “You thrill me, LORD, with all you have done for me! I sing for joy because of what You have done” (NLT). “You thrill me, LORD” pause and think on this for a moment, even say it out loud! It is the result of the past, the present and a request for more. When was the last time we got excited about God and knowing Him?
Peter writes “Grace and peace be yours in abundance through the knowledge of God and of Jesus our Lord” (2 Peter 1:2, NIV). This knowledge, this knowing Jesus is not only to recognize Him, as if to point and declare. This goes beyond what is more commonly (biblically) rendered knowing as to see, to discern. Peter is stating we find favor and experience peace when we become fully acquainted with Him. He exhorts us to heart knowledge. To literally experience Jesus.
This generation seems to think that just because they have seen it done (Thank you YouTube) or read about it or talked about it or know someone who has, they too have experienced it. There is a big difference between watching, reading, and talking about flying a B52 Bomber Jet and actually crawling up into the cockpit and strap yourself in and pilot it.
Experience.
How are we with our knowing Jesus? Are we still just talking and reading about Him? Or watching others enjoy Him? I for one, want Jesus to go beyond my head and captivate my heart!
Join me. YOU seek Him. YOU strap yourself in for the ride of your life!
“Grace and peace be yours in abundance through the knowledge of God and of Jesus our Lord” – Let Him THRILL you!
In Him, DeDe (“Let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love & good deeds” – Hebrews 10:24).
*The picture of the lil guy above, I have no clue who he is or who took it. He has challenged me for years. He is thrilled.
Lovingly Intentional
In my quiet time, I have been reading through the book of Galatians. I am fascinated by Paul explaining his encounter with Jesus. He, zealous in the traditions of his forefathers, advancing ahead of his colleagues, and once a persecutor of the Christians – “But when God…” (Galatians 1:15, see key verses below). Don’t you just love it! We all need us a “but when God” in our life! Paul goes on to say God called him by His grace and revealed His Son in him.
The word Paul chooses to use for reveal is thought provoking. There are two uses for this Greek word. One is used to describe something given to the mind; God reveals to the intellect of man. However, here Paul uses the other usage. Within the context this revealing is done to the senses. To sight, hearing, feeling, touching, and smelling. Meaning, when Jesus presented Himself to Paul (remember the bright blinding light) He knocked Paul on his backside and was appealing to his senses NOT his intellect. Paul was a highly educated man, a thinking man. Perhaps God was getting past his head, so he could NOT attempt to rationalize the encounter, (thus three days of blindness, see Acts 9). The verse goes on to say, all this was done “so that” he might preach Him.
I appreciate the word of God is so practical. The phrase “so that” not only gives us insight, but also is powerful – “this is why.” Good godly cause and effect. Not that God needs a reason, but graciously inspired the writers to include it. “Walk in the ways of the LORD your God so that you may live and prosper” (Deut. 5:33). “All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, so that the man of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work” (2 Timothy 3:16,17). Paul prays “I keep asking that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the glorious Father, may give you the Spirit of wisdom and revelation, so that you may know Him better” (Ephesians 1:17). Boldly Paul declares, dress appropriately, “Put on the full armor of God so that you can take your stand against the devil’s schemes” (Ephesians 6:11).
I too have experienced a strong “so that.” In all my growing up years, I was challenged (an understatement) with reading. I suffered from Comprehension Deficit Disorder. I could (s-l-o-w-l-y) read the words but had really no clue what I just read. It all got lost somewhere. I graduated High School with a 4th grade reading level. Stepping into my plans of being a graphic artist, God called me out. When He did, in all honesty, I laughed. I did a Sarah. He was calling me (the gal who couldn’t read) to a book – THE Book! Long story short. I ended up at Bible College. It was there He healed my mind. I know beyond any doubt, He graciously healed me “so that” I would teach His word. In my lacking all those years, God was training me. He trained me to listen for the details. Paying attention to detail is important. The who, what, where, how and why. It isn’t me. It is Him through me (to the glory of God). My life response is dedicated to His calling, to His word, to Him. To the One Who opened my mind.
May we spot the so that’s in scripture. Knowing there is a reason, and the reason is intended to be known. May we also spot the “But when God… so that…” in our own life. Perhaps He addresses us intellectually or He does a Paul, getting our attention and puts us on our backside.
He is in the detail. He is lovingly intentional. He is faithful.
So that.
In Him, DeDe (“Let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love & good deeds.” – Hebrews 10:24)
Key Verses: “I want you to know, brothers, that the gospel I preached is not something that man made up. I did not receive it from any man, nor was I taught it; rather, I received it by revelation from Jesus Christ. For you have heard of my previous way of life in Judaism, how intensely I persecuted the church of God and tried to destroy it. I was advancing in Judaism beyond many Jews of my own age and was extremely zealous for the traditions of my fathers. But when God, who set me apart from birth and called me by His grace, was pleased to reveal His Son in me so that I might preach Him among the Gentiles, I did not consult any man” (Galatians 1:11-16 NIV).
Positioning for Passion
Passion. When you read that word what first comes to mind? That passion or zeal we have that compels us – makes us –forces us to places of the heart that we HAVE to have more! Does our desire for more include more of … GOD? More of His word. More time spent in His presence. Passion is our response to being completely, utterly, astonishingly captivated by Him.
A while back, I had a gal express that she was amazed at my passion for God and His word and compared it to (I will summarize what I heard) her lack of desire, discipline and delight in her relationship with God. Instead of those three, she found herself basically surviving in the doldrums found in duty of relationship. I’ve been there – done THAT! (Still do at times).
I would offer, if we lack passion – ASK FOR IT! God will “give you the desires of your heart” (Psalm 37:4). Then we seek discipline. We are putting feet to our desire. We want more, so now we are going to position ourselves for just that. If we want more of His word, then we set aside time to read His word, study it and think on it, most importantly, have the word–study us. It is “living and active” (Hebrews 4:12). God’s word is designed to be engaged. This takes discipline. This is the practical side of positioning.
We may need to address our alarm clock issue, so we can get up just a few minutes earlier. Or remove the other books on the nightstand and place only one Book there. Ask the Lord to show us creative ways to make way, make room for reading, talking and listening.
When Jesus says, “Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength” (Mark 12:30). He is saying our all is with completeness – no holding out! There is no dividing up our love, like a pie graph. We draw out a slice for this and for that and what is left is God stuff –God’s slice. No, He gets the whole pie.
Desire, discipline and delight for me, it paints a picture of getting in line, like that at the store. Our desire takes us to the line. We want the prize that is offered at the head of the line. Discipline keeps us in the line. We may be distracted by those walking by with other stuff, but we REALLY want what this line has to offer – so we stay. Delight is getting to the head of the line and so overwhelmed with the prize (JESUS!) that we RUN and again get back in line for MORE. THAT, to me is PASSION! The progression of passion: Desire, discipline, delight. May we find ourselves always in the line and always running back for more–of GOD!
It is up to US to take our relationship with the Lord seriously. Any relationship must be cultivated. Bible scholar and good godly guy, Charles Spurgeon said “To delight in God is as much a privilege as a duty.” Both delight and duty (a task or action required for responsibility) are part of knowing, loving and serving God.
Passion.
In Him, DeDe (“Let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love & good deeds” – Hebrews 10:24).
Be Still
Have you ever stood in the woods – just stood. Didn’t move. You listened. Quiet. Leaving the noise of the city for this contrasting quiet. It can be captivating can’t it? “Be still” conveys not only to “let drop” what is in your fisted hand, and stop striving, but too formulates a forsaking, an abandoning. May we abandon the chaos around us, the crazy wild noises that can forge our perspectives and let us settle in with the knowledge that HE IS GOD.
Quiet.
I Was Bold
Recently I had the honor to speak to our young adult women at our church, their ages ranging from 18 to 28(ish). I was given an hour to share my heart, a blueprint on practical ways of being a Godly gal in this generation. As I looked into the eyes of each young woman, I truly knew the privilege and opportunity before me. I was honest. I was real. I was bold. I shared from God’s word and my personal experiences.
(In short) First, “Have a pre-determined answer.” How often do circumstances arise and demand a response from us and we tend to flounder – grasping for the right answer, the right behavioral response. When we do, we usually grab the closest and easiest and often comes in the form of compromise. We looked at Genesis 14, where Abram stood before the King of Sodom, refusing his offer of the spoils of war, “I have raised my hand to the LORD, God Most High, and have taken an oath that I will accept nothing from you. So that you can say “I” made Abram rich” (vv22-23). Immediately after this, God comes and tells Abe “I am your shield, your very great reward” (15:1). Abram had a pre-determined oath. He had his God answer. We too need to be prepared. Now is the time for preparation – don’t wait until you’re in the midst of the stuff.
Second, “Don’t get distracted.” Solomon, the wise guy wrote: “Look straight ahead and fix your eyes on what lies before you. Mark out a straight path for your feet; stay on the safe path” (Proverbs 4:25-26, NLT). We discussed “what is it that distracts you most – the quickest?” Be aware of this and apply the first element – have a pre-determined answer for your distraction. Stay the course. Follow Jesus. NEVER waiver.
This flowed right into the third element: “Position Yourself.” King David wrote: “I have set the LORD always before me, because He is at my right hand, I will not be shaken” (Psalm 16:8). You desire good God stuff? What – who have you set before you? Be intentional about placement. Where are you and what are you thinking and doing? Are you in church? Your friends, have you chosen wisely? Do you have some folks that will lovingly address your stuff? Are you reading God’s instruction manual? Also, has God told you something specific? What are you doing about it? Intentional positioning.
With the fourth point, we camped out there most of our time together. We discussed what it is to “Be a good family member.” When I was growing up, my dad was a businessman. He owned two grocery stores, one convenience store and two restaurants. We (myself and the sibs) heard dad often say. “Remember you’re a DeBus.” Meaning, we were expected to speak and behave in a manner that represented the family well. So it is with our God family. Not only be a good witness to Jesus’ name, but a good member to each other. Kind and forgiving.
Jesus said we are to love God with our all and love our neighbor (Matthew 22:36-40). Paul too wrote: “Be devoted to one another in brotherly love. Honor one another above yourselves” (Romans 12:10). Loving our neighbor, our brother (in particular) means we help protect them. We talked about our personal expression, about – modesty (in detail, I don’t think we forgot a thing). Our brothers have a responsibility for their own eyes, their own heart, their own disciplines and decisions – but why not help them out!
We closed the evening (being a good family member) with brainstorming how they (the younger folks) can connect with the older folks. There is a boatload of wisdom wrapped up in our older saints. Prior to this evening, I polled six women, (ranging in age from 30’s to 70’s). I asked them to please tell me, if they could reach back and speak to their younger (20 something) self – what advice would they offer. I read the list to the gals. It was impacting.
A great reminder for us all (myself included). Practical ways for good God stuff in this generation: Have a pre-determined answer. Don’t get distracted. Position Yourself. Be a good family member.
All for His glory. (In Jesus name).
In Him, DeDe (“Let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love & good deeds” – Hebrews 10:24).
Inspired Fountain 