Dressed for THEM

How often do we go to our closet and pull out what to wear according to how we want to … feel? There are times I want to feel pretty, so I will wear something rather feminine, or speaking to a group desiring to feel confident, so I will wear something perhaps tailored and professional. A time of relaxation, a soft pair of cotton sweats are the choice for the moment. A kick back day of running errands, jeans and a T-shirt. This clothing ourselves is primarily for … US, yet there is a time we dress for … THEM. Ultimately we dress for Him.

This week I had the wonderful privilege to speak at two chapel services at my son’s Christian School. I was given the assignment to speak on ‘compassion’. The ages of the children varied from kindergarten to 8th grade. I have never seen such eager faces starring back at me. I could have had these kids convinced that the rapture had taken place and I was there to bus them to another location… (just kidding) so I knew my responsibility was BIG. Speak short, sweet – to the point and give them a GREAT visual aide.  God is good.

“Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you” (Eph. 4:32) followed the story of the Good Samaritan. Compassion, literally meaning ‘to share and understand the same feelings of another’. As I shared the Samaritan story from Luke chapter 10, my dear friend Wilma (thank you sweet gal) was conveniently located in the front row directly in front of me. She began to act agitated, sighing rather loud, shifting in her seat. As time went on, she became a distraction, I ‘acted’ irritated, trying to ignore her. The children now well aware of her actions and mood, looked to see how I was going to handle the situation (of course she was a ‘plant’).

I went to her and asked if she was ok, her response was ‘no’. I suggested that maybe she was too hot, and that I was somewhat chilled and asked if I could borrow her jacket, she took it off and gave it to me. Putting it on, I told her, the jacket was nice, as I slipped my hand into one of the pockets, finding a piece of paper. I pulled it out and unfolded it. Written on it in large black letters was the word ‘SAD‘. Holding it up for all the kids to see. “Hm…” I said, “maybe that is why she was sighing so loud”. I put my hand in another pocket and pulled out another piece of paper, this time it read ‘PAIN‘. Turning to Wilma I asked if she was sad and in pain, she shook her head yes. Looking again to the children, telling them, “Here I was trying to tell you about compassion, and I got irritated at Wilma and she is in pain and is sad.”   I found yet ANOTHER, piece of paper, ‘LONELY‘ it read.

Going to Wilma I gave her a big hug, told her I was sorry for judging her at first, but now I understood her. Colossians 3:12 “Therefore as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience.” I shared with the kids that compassion is like putting on someone’s jacket. When we do, we may ‘feel’ what they feel, we then can understand them and help them in kindness, humility, gentleness and patience. I think they got it. (a teachers smile). As I closed in prayer, I thanked Jesus for His quality of compassion, that He came to earth and put on humanity, He DOES understand.

Compassion, dressed for THEM.  Dressed for Him.

Blessing, DeDe (Ps. 92:4 “You thrill me, Lord…”)

May 14, 2009 | Categories: * Devotionals | 1 Comment

Hosanna! The Easter Gospel

‘Makarios Anastasis’.   This week is the traditional season of Passover for those of Jewish heritage or faith. Passover is the Hebrew celebration of remembering God delivering them from Egyptian bondage. The story is found in the book of Exodus. The FINAL delivering power was that of the blood of a lamb. In short, the Israelites were to slay an unblemished lamb, and place the blood of the lamb on the door posts of their home. The angel of death came, (killing all first born males) when the blood was seen, the angel passed over the home. Soon the Israelites were leaving Egypt FREE.

A different time:

WAIT… what is that we hear… LISTEN ~ do you hear the muffled sounds of a crowd, now the clip ~ clop of hooves?  Someone is yelling something. Who is it that comes riding in on a donkey… the LAMB of God! (Mark 11:7-10) The crowd yells “Hosanna… Hosanna in the Highest.”

 Hosanna is the Greek version of the Hebrew saying ‘yasha na’ (yaw-shaw naw) meaning  ‘save we pray’. This is taken from the Hallel, from Psalms 118:25,26 “O LORD, save us; O LORD , grant us success. Blessed is he who comes in the name of the LORD. From the house of the LORD we bless you. “(NIV)  The King James says “Save now, I beseech thee” (hosanna)

As Jesus rides into Jerusalem, they yell “Hosanna!” ~ “Save we Pray!” Can you grasp the impact of what they are saying? Jesus was fulfilling the prophetic words of Zechariah 9:9 and that of 2 Samuel 7:12-13

Then.. just 4 chapters later, that same crowd was again yelling, but this time. “Crucify Him! ~ Crucify Him!”  Little did they know they were yelling the same thing … both times!  For you see, for Jesus to ‘save we pray’, they had to ‘Crucify Him!‘

Loved ones, Jesus is our Passover Lamb! But we can’t stop there. Luke chapter 24. Early, three days later after the death of Jesus, women were said to have gone to the tomb, when arriving they found the stone had been rolled away. When they entered in, they did not find the body of Jesus, yet ‘two men in clothes that gleamed like lightning stood beside them’ (wouldn’t that scare the Easter bunny out of anyone). The men said, “Why do you look for the living among the dead? He is not here; HE HAS RISEN ” (emphasis mine). They reminded the women of Jesus’ words . “The Son of Man must be delivered into the hands of sinful men, be crucified and on the third day be raised again.“

This is where we celebrate … ‘Makarios Anastasis ! Blessed Resurrection!’ Oh the joy of Easter, the story, the reality, the TRUTH. Hosanna, Easter … the gospel truth.

 Hosanna has become a phrase of praise. In it’s declaration it holds the complete gospel story. ‘Save we pray’… THAT HE DID!

Blessings to you and yours,

In Him, DeDe (Ps. 92:4 ‘You thrill me, LORD!)

April 6, 2009 | Categories: * Devotionals | Leave a comment

Attending to…

Attending to…

1 Pet. 4:8 “Above all, love each other deeply …” some translations use, ‘love fervently.’ Fervently, one of the most beautiful action words of the Bible. Our love is to be intently strenuous for one another. Meaning we ‘stretch out’ towards and for them with diligence, again and again. It may be a stretch for us. Life gets busy, but people need attending to … much to do, much to love.

attending to.

April 3, 2009 | Categories: * Devotionals | Leave a comment

You Define the Depth

Have you ever felt compelled to get all spiffied up, put on your best duds, or perhaps slide into a nice warm jacket, then realize you have no destination in mind, ‘all dressed up and no where to go.’

Our relationship with God is like that at times, we read our Bibles, have our devotions, say our prayers, yet … that is as far as we get. I am guilty of this. It is as if I am waiting for God to make the first move. James says clearly “Come near to God and He will come near to you.” (4:8)

One of God’s strongest attributes is that of His patience. He longs for us to come to Him, He is waiting. The principle is the same in all relationships, if you want it to be strong and deep, you have to cultivate it, put time and energy into it … particupate IN it.

So today, enjoy your relationship with Jesus, YOU define the depth, call out to Him, seek Him, enter in, come close to Him. Don’t merely stand out in the cold and allow just a few drops of God to fall on you, DIVE in and get Him all over you!

~ DeDe

March 29, 2009 | Categories: * Devotionals | Leave a comment

O to Learn

This week I was again reminded of the need to … learn. Often I think, “O I have been at this long enough … I SHOULD KNOW THIS!” Yet, at least for me, I keep coming up short every time. I felt God nudge me, (in doing so, I am humbled) and must say to my relief, He showed me, that the things, the qualities that it takes to be strong in God, do not come natural to me, they are to be learned. Then, reviewed ~ worked ~ walked and learned AGAIN.

These are a few, ‘to learn’ I gleaned from bible study this week, and found a couple extra on my own. (yep even MORE to learn)

Deut. 4:10 LEARN to revere the Lord
1 Chr. 28:9 LEARN to know God intimately (NLT)
Job 34:4 LEARN what is good
Psalm 51:6 LEARN wisdom
Psalm 119:73 LEARN His commands
Matt. 11:28-30 LEARN to rest
Luke 11:1 LEARN to pray
Heb. 5:8 LEARN obedience
Phil. 4:12 LEARN contentment
Col. 1:10 LEARN to know God better and better (NLT)

Learning is a process, and the Holy Spirit is an awesome Teacher ~ teach us … teach ME!

~ DeDe

March 14, 2009 | Categories: * Devotionals | 1 Comment

But Sir !

When was the last time something was asked of you, that you KNOW you could not possibly do it, or even come close to attaining it? Kind of frustrating isn’t it? This is how Gideon felt when out minding his own business, when the angel of the Lord came and appeared to him. The Israelites at this time had been oppressed by other nations, primarily the Midianites. Now the Lord calls Gideon “… mighty warrior.” Telling him, “go in the strength you have and save Israel out of Midian’s hand…”

I LOVE Gideon’s response, “But Sir…how can I save Israel … my clan is the weakest in Manasseh, and I am the least in my family.” (Judges 6:13,15) We all have had “But Sir” moments, haven’t we? Moments when God asks something of us, moments when we need to do or be something that is beyond us. We feel weak, and insignificant. Oh, God’s response is SO valuable and the TRUE foundation of success. The Lord answered, “I will be with you, and you will strike down all the Midianites together.”

Gideon goes on to lead a small army to victory with unconventional ways … blowing trumpets, breaking pots and holding huge Bic lighters. I believe God wants us all to have Gideon experiences. Turning our ‘But Sir, I am weak … and the least… how can I…?‘ to victory believing His word to us, ‘I will be with you, and you will…’

What is God asking of us today? What name like ‘mighty warrior’ is He giving, that totally blows us away, perhaps … courageous missionary, passionate teacher, gentle leader, faithful friend, and prayer warrior, even loving mom. He may even call us to unconventional ways, yet how exciting to see how it all unfolds.

 Join with me, as we turn our ‘but Sir’ into ‘I will be with you and you will…‘

In Him, DeDe (Ps. 92:4 “You thrill me, LORD …”)

February 15, 2009 | Categories: * Devotionals | Leave a comment

Found Favor

I do love a good story. One full of intrigue, challenge, and PLEEEZE the underdog WINS! I have been studying the book of Esther, better yet, Esther herself. The story hits a high note as Esther stands before the king, beginning her request to spare the Jews, she says “If I have found favor with you, O King…”

How often do we stand with a request, and seek the King’s favor, or merely just stand before the King, praying ~ hoping His favor flows strong today! There is so much that we encounter on a daily basis, trials and choices, loves and loses. A wise friend shared with me recently “you know the righteous and narrow would judge harshly, but I think that King David, would understand.. he had such an insight into love, passion, and beauty.” I would add, and his God. David  experienced God on so many levels, he knew Him on the battlefield, as a shepherd boy, and yes, as one with authority to have whatever he wants as king, yet it is David that said, “Delight yourself in the Lord, and He will give you the desires of your heart” (Ps. 37:4)

So, as children of the Most High God, we come ‘boldly before the throne … let your request be made known.’ God desires to love on us and bless us.

Found favor …

February 7, 2009 | Categories: * Devotionals | Leave a comment

Satisfied

How often do we go to the frig with great hopes of finding something to satisfy that craving, the craving we really aren’t sure what we want, but we want something.  So we reach around, dig through, push things aside looking for fulfillment.
 
This is true too with our souls as well.  We hunger, and often rummage around to find fulfillment, through people, possessions and position. David declared in Psalm 63:1 “O God, you are my God, earnestly I seek you, my soul thirsts for you… .”  When God created man, He created him body and soul.  Our bodies being from the dust of earth, it is therefore nourished by the earth.  Yet our souls where created by the breath of God, Genesis 2:7 “The LORD God formed the man from the dust of the ground and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life, and man became a living being.”  ‘Living being’, this is the translated Hebrew word for soul.  It is the breath of God that nourishes the soul, HE is our souls only fulfillment.
 
The Psalmist beautifully shares, “For He (the Lord) satisfies the thirsty and fills the hungry with good things.” (Ps. 107:9) Today, as we begin our day, pouring that cup of coffee, snacking on that bagel,  may we seek as David did, “O God, you are my God, earnestly I seek you, my souls thirsts for YOU! 

In Him, DeDe

January 29, 2009 | Categories: * Devotionals | Leave a comment

It is NEVER Too Late

Recently our family said good-bye to a wonderful woman.  Her name was Daisy Gardner, she being only 4 months shy of her 100th birthday.  Daisy was my grandmother.  I had the awesome privilege, along with the pastor of being asked to speak at her home going service.  As I stood before friends and family I began to unfold the linen of grandma’s heart.
 
Grandma was a quiet woman, not one to voice her opinions, yet when she did speak in her gentle tones, you listened!  I have many fond memories of her and the way she always made you feel welcome. Her heart was one of a servant, to bring hospitality to life was her gifting.  She was creative, worked well with her hands, her smile and giggle would melt your heart.
 
I continued to share:  The year was 2007, Grandma at the young age of 96 wasn’t feeling well, as I sat by her bed, we chatted of many things, the weather, family, the farm (the central hub of the family).  Alone in her room, our talk turned to God.  There are moments when you really want to know for sure and a boldness sweeps across you, may I offer … ‘take hold of them!’  Feeling compelled, I asked “Grandma, have you accepted Jesus into your heart?”  There was a long pause, and Grandma’s face appeared thoughtful.  Her eyes soon began to fill with tears, and her response was “O yes honey, but I don’t think He accepted me.”
 
I have to admit what she said took the breath right out of me.  My eyes began to fill as well.  Now standing, I reached over and placed my hand on her heart and told her “O Grandma He SOO accepts you and loves you!”  I shared with her what I know to be true from His word and from my own life experience.  I asked her if she wanted to pray, and she said “yes.”   We prayed.  There in her room, at the age of 96, Grandma KNEW God loved her and accepted her!
 
I was given one of Grandma’s rings the year following, Grandma was no longer able to wear her beloved jewelry. The ring was designed just for her, using the diamonds from her two marriages, (both grandfathers proceeding her in death.)  The ring with spiraling gold as it wraps around the diamonds fit perfect as I placed it on my finger.  Grandma had the opportunity to see me wear the ring, and enjoy my inheritance.  The ring is a divine reminder of that special day with Grandma.  That there ARE times in life when we need to be bold, take the risk,  ask the questions. There are golden opportunities designed just for us.  Too, just like the diamonds, our lives are chipped away at to form a beautiful gem.
 
I believe, Grandma in her gentle tone would say “It is NEVER too late.  You are LOVED and accepted!”
 
This week, may we be bold, take hold of golden opportunities, place our hand over hearts, share from God’s word and from our own knowledge of Him!  You never know what the response may be!
 
In Him, DeDe (Ps. 92:4 “You thrill me, LORD …”)

January 21, 2009 | Categories: * Devotionals | Leave a comment

New Every Morning

“The LORD’s loving-kindness indeed never ceases, for His compassions never fail. They are new every morning. Great is Your faithfulness.” (Lamentations 3:22,23)

It is as if God lays out compassion (mercy) for us each morning, like a mother laying out our wardrobe.  We merely need to accept it, put it on and wear it!  “So as those who have been chosen of God, holy and beloved, put on a heart of compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience” (Colossians 3:12)

Each morning we prepare for our day whether that be home, work or school. May we reach for what GOD has laid out for us to put on… His qualities. “They are new every morning…” Now THAT is a wardrobe! Dressed for success!

In Him, DeDe

January 21, 2009 | Categories: * Devotionals | 2 Comments

Myrrh of CHRISTmas

Often we read through the Christmas story and highlight the most spectacular parts, singing angels … “Fear Not…” statements, the Star of Bethlehem, and yes the dingy manger.  YET, there are some quiet and seem less significant items to be had in the excitement.
 
Consider if you would, the Magi as they prepare for their trek out to find the child to whom the Star belongs.  They are packing, dividing up the supplies list, then they come to the gift inventory, gold is given to the first, then frankincense handed to another, ‘O yeah, the myrrh is last’.  How would YOU like to be handed the myrrh, and picture yourself bowing low, head to the floor while you offer M-Y-R-R-H  (said with an Eeyore deep tone) to the King of Kings!  You may think  “Dude, why do I have to carry the white elephant gift???”
 
AH… the gifts, gold, frankincense and MYRRH.  Have we ever really thought WHAT is myrrh?  I can assure us all that it was not a last minute addition, or a ‘re-gifting’ of an unwanted gift. 
 
The divine significance of myrrh:
 
Exodus 30:22-23  Myrrh ~ an ingredient used in the anointing oil of the Tabernacle and the priests.
 
Luke 7:36-50  Myrrh ~  (myron) perfumed oil/ointment poured over Jesus’ feet.
 
John 19:39-40 Myrrh ~ used as one of the spices to prepare Jesus’ body for burial.
 
Picture now, the Christ child, perhaps two in age, curly dark hair, possibly pudgy cheeks.  At His feet, men of wisdom and honor now place gold, frankincense and MYRRH.  The anointing oil of the TABERNACLE and THE Priest.  “The Word became flesh and made His dwelling among us…” (John 1:14)  The perfumed oil poured on His feet as a grown man, that soon would be pierced.  The oil added to the spices wrapped around His body following His death.
 
Myrrh, how prophetic.  A new appreciation for the gift.
 
Gifts given to Jesus have GREAT significance.  It is our heart He wants.  May we too bow low, offer what we may think insignificant.
 
Have a VERY blessed CHRISTmas!
 
In Him, DeDe (Ps. 92:4 “You thrill me, LORD…”)

December 25, 2008 | Categories: * Devotionals | Leave a comment

Everyday Can Be Like a Holiday

“Everyday can be like a holiday.” That is this years seasonal Christmas slogan posted in Starbucks. I think they might be on to something. As I hold my peppermint hot chocolate, topped with cool whip, and coco powder sprinkled over the top and it is FREEZING outside. Inside, content, I smile and think, ‘yes, yes it can.‘ Often we consider the season of Christmas to be the day after Thanksgiving, and lasting until New Years Eve. After that, the tree is taken down, the ornaments boxed up, the outdoor lawn reindeer stored in the garage rafters.  Christmas a fleeting memory.

YET, the message of Christmas CAN be seen, felt and shared throughout the year. My favorite rendition of the Christmas story is documented in Luke chapter 2. I paraphrase: Mary and Joseph head to Bethlehem, as they check in at the lobby of the Inn, they are directed out back to their accommodations. I think the email memo for a Kingly setting must have failed to deliver. They quickly settle in. A dingy stable, with no fine linens, NOT fit for a King, but more for a humble servant. While the Savior was being born, a baby announcement was being declared in the sky.

We now eaves drop on the shepherds, while they were at work, ‘watching their flocks by night.‘ The angel appears and says… (the quick to the point version) “Dudes don’t be afraid, I bring you good news… today… a Savior… He is Christ the Lord. This will be a sign to you… ” WOW!

I find it fascinating, that the angel addresses their fear, do you know how many times in the Bible man is admonished NOT to be afraid? Many! After the fear factor was addressed, the presentation of ‘good news’ was given, the choir sang, and service was over. I wonder… if our pastors approached the pulpit, and opened their sermons with ‘FEAR NOT’ would we pay just a tad bit more attention? (just kidding).

Yet, the message is clear, think of our day to day routines. We face many obstacles, stress keeps our focus captive, and we just go about our business. What if ~ (humor me) JESUS comes to us, saying “Don’t be afraid, TODAY, I Christ the Lord, YOUR Savior … here’s YOUR sign…”

I love the word ‘sign’ in the Greek, (actually used 77 times in the NT). One scholar defines it as “A miracle by which the power and presence of God is manifested” Notice it doesn’t declare how big or small the manifestation. Sign, a distinguishing mark noting significance. Do we see these? Do we LOOK for Jesus to manifest Himself before us? Is He there? Tenderly, I declare HE IS. He walks along side us, pointing, “here see this, see … ME!  THIS is for YOU! ”  It may be a gentle whisper you hear in the breeze, a wondrous sunset, a wildflower brilliant with color. Or a check in the mail, JUST when you need it. Your car starting after sitting in the snow dormant for a few days. Coincident?  NO!

FEAR NOT!  TODAY!  I, CHRIST am here!

This year, may we take the Christmas message beyond the borders of the calendar setting… Jesus here NOW, with us! May we too see the ‘sign’, the confirmation of divine authority all around us! Yielding to the manifestation. O Jesus, open our eyes, our ears, that we too would do as the shepherds did “When they has seen Him, they spread the word…” (v. 17) God is good.

Blessed Christmas!

In Him, DeDe   (Ps. 92:4 “You thrill me, LORD…”)

December 21, 2008 | Categories: * Devotionals | Leave a comment

Bless’em !

As Christmas approaches, folks are beginning to talk the lingo, with words of the season such as, trees, presents, wish list and Santa Claus.    Have you noticed the shift from ‘Merry Christmas’, to ‘Happy Holidays’.  It is even becoming  ‘politically correct’ among many.    Although it may look pretty splashed across our Christmas cards, I believe Jesus came for…. more.  (do I hear a hardy AMEN! )

We tend to wrap our ‘happiness’ around the external – possessions, position.   The concept that we know today for ‘happy’ is not actually found in the New Testament.  The word happy comes from ‘hap’ which means  ‘luck or favorable circumstances’.  Now remove the modern perspective of this, and see what really is intended.

 Happy ~ blessed! Makarios!  ‘The state of one who has become a partaker of God, to experience the fullness of God.’ *    We find this expressed in Matthew 5, in the sermon on the Mount, from Jesus’ own lips.   ‘Blessed is he…..’  He goes on to explain, all that is intended for those who are aware of their need for God, this leads to mourning over our own spiritual condition, thus we are open, hungering and thirsting  for HIM.  Blessed are those who step into that arena, and find and experience HIM.

This season, as we stand in the line for the cashier, or walking in the halls of our children’s school, or merely waving at a neighbor, may I offer ~ that we  bypass the attempt at their ‘happiness’, by flippantly saying ‘Happy Holidays’ and  be so bold  to  make the statement of blessing … and take it a step further  “blessed Christmas!” speak over them the prayer that they too would experience the fullness of HIM.  Bless’em!  They won’t even know what hit them!

Have a God-loving, partaking of Him, and passing it on – week!

In Him, DeDe (Ps. 92:4, You thrill me, LORD!)

* Definition: Makarios  by Bill Klien – Professor of Biblical Greek  at  Masters Graduate School of Divinity

December 12, 2008 | Categories: * Devotionals | Leave a comment

Thanksgiving ~ Being Empty Handed

 
This week I had the wonderful privilege of speaking at our Adults Alive Thanksgiving Luncheon. What a fun group of folks. I didn’t want to share the same old ~ same old turkey, Plymouth Rock, bow your head and thank God for all the calories we are about to consumeth. I did however express a different spin on having a thankful heart.

In today’s culture, most would say and believe (fueled by the media and Hollywood) that to HAVE equals happiness. The more we can get, the more our hands are FULL of STUFF, our contentment level rises. But it is not just ‘stuff’, the items that fills us up. There are the STUFF, the troubles of life, stresses, concerns, these too fill our hands, (representing our lives). As I walked to the platform to speak, my hands were full of STUFF, everyday objects, so full that I fumbled with them. I brought no attention to these as I spoke. At one point, I handed a few items to a gal to ‘hold for me’ (I am a walker as I speak).

Psalm 136:1 “Give thanks to the Lord, for He is good. His love endures forever.” The Hebrew word for ‘give thanks’ is yada. You’ve heard it used in slang, to emphasis ‘etc. etc. etc.’ or ‘blah, blah, blah.’ Yet THAT is as far from the meaning used here as it can be. Yada ~ thankfulness, worship with outstretched hand, and to confess. We confess much in our daily lives, expressed in our attitudes, actions and what we say. Are we confessing God? How is our attitude when we do so? Are we confessing that He is GOOD, or are we pretty much stuck in the wilderness of complaining (see the book of Exodus).

My favorite example of a strong confession of thankfulness, praise was Thomas in the New Testament. Poor Thomas, can you imagine being cast FOREVER as ‘Doubting Thomas’? After Jesus’ death and resurrection, He spent ‘quality’ time with His disciples, one such instance was when He approached Thomas, stretching out His nail scarred hands, ‘Look and feel’. Thomas’ confession? “My Lord and my God!” What a heart of worship! I choose to believe that Thomas may have fell to his knees at that moment. Confession, being in agreement, and aligning ourselves in like manner. My Lord and my God!

“Give thanks to the Lord, for He is good. His love endures forever.” Yada means to worship, praise, to confess… but there is MORE. It is also translated as to throw, to cast. Hm… are we not told to “Cast all your cares on Him because He cares for you.” (I Peter 5:7) Cast, literally mean to pitch — toss that puppy!

YEARS ago, before all these fancy Playstation games, we used to play a game on the computer at work (yes at work, head hung) I believe it was called Dungeon. It was an adventure, strategy game. We would go through corridors and passage ways. On this journey we were to pick up items along the way, such as food, water, map and supplies. YET, when coming to a door, we were to find the key- dilemma – my hands are now full. I had to choose what I was going to lay down, and release, so I can pick up the key to unlock the door. Empting my hand got me through the door.
 
Here’s a question I would like to pose. Could thankfulness, the releasing of our cares and concerns to worship Him, be the key to unlock the doors in our life?  As the commercial on TV states: “What’s in your wallet?” may I offer, “What’s in your hand?”

Psalm 46:10 “Be still and know that I am God…” some translations word it as ‘cease striving’ and know that I am God. Cease striving, is rapa (raw-faw) it means to slacken, to release and relax, to let drop. It conveys the word picture as to hold something tight in your hand, then to relax your grip, and allow it to fall. Thus an open – and empty hand. Release those stresses, concerns and the STUFF of life…THEN we can know and experience God as designed. I think we all would be AMAZED at what God will put in our hands … HIS stuff!

Remember the stuff in my hands while speaking? I released them into a basket and asked the folks if it was a distraction to see me carry all that, they agreed it indeed was. Our stuff is a distractions to us AND those around us. We even at times ask others to hold some of our stuff for us, now our stuff is in their hands too. I am NOT talking about ‘sharing a burden’, I am directing our attention to the un- necessary STUFF – fretting – anxiety – items that hold our attention.

Thanksgiving … the yada of our heart. We take our stuff, with outstretched hands, and give them …  um.. throw them to God (O He can handle it!) Now our hands are what? Empty. Being empty handed means God can now fill them with Himself! You’ve heard the saying “More of Him, less of me.”

Thanksgiving ~ being empty handed.

Have a blessed Thanksgiving Holiday  ~ In Him, DeDe (Ps. 92:4 “You thrill me, LORD…”)
 
*  my daily blog http://butgod.blogspot.com/

November 22, 2008 | Categories: * Devotionals | Leave a comment

Be Careful What You Ask For!

 Ever see something in a magazine and in awe think “Wow that’s nice, would love one of those!” Then as time goes on, you begin to see that same item all over the place, in the shopping malls, in the display windows, in cars as they drive by, every channel on TV declares this is a MUST HAVE and NOW your neighbor has one! OH the injustice of it all! “I want one too!” Before you know, to have one ~ consumes you.

As Ecclesiastes says, “…there is nothing new under the sun.” The nation of Israel too found themselves wanting. In 1 Samuel chapter 8, I paraphrase: The prophet Samuel was getting old, the Israelites were ready for something ‘new’. They observed around them that the other nations had a ‘king’ – “WE WANT ONE TOO!” ( grumble, grumble – whine, whine!). Not at all pleased with this . ‘Give us a king to lead us’  demand (v.6). Samuel went to the Lord. God assured Sam, that the Israelites were not rejecting him, but God Himself as King! So, God says give them what they want, BUT, give them the disclaimers of getting what you want, (yes, there is always ‘fine print’). Verse 9, “but warn them solemnly and let them know what the king who will reign over them will do.”

Let’s think on this for a moment, we want something because others have it… hm… do we even consider, does what they have make them happy – are they fulfilled by it? Does that high tech gadget bring them satisfaction? I am sure if the Israelites were to REALLY examine the other nations closely, that having a ‘king’ was not all what it was cracked up to be.

Samuel proceeds to tell the people, if you get a king, this is what will happen; you will become enslaved to him. What was yours now becomes his. This reign of a new king will affect you AND your family. He will rule you. Samuel basically then tells them, there will come a time when you will be sorry you asked for this.

EVEN with this being said, knowing the negative affects of this choice, they still demand a king. “No”, they said, “We want a king over us. Then we will be like all the other nations.” (verse, 19,20).

Are the Israelites suppose to be like all the other nations? NO! Are we to be like the rest of the world? NO! Oh there is nothing wrong with wanting things, position, a title, even wanting more, or something new. But do we consider the cost of getting it? Will what we want begin to ‘rule’ us?

The demand for a king began a roller coaster ride for the Israelites. Samuel did anoint a king for Israel, Saul was the first. Then history was set in motion, some good, some NOT, those who loved the Lord, and those who “Did evil in the sight of the Lord.” We never know, how one demand to have, can change the course of our future forever.

Can the Lord redeem unhealthy (stupid) demands, O YES! I am all over redemption from poor choices! GO GOD!

Be careful for what you ask for, what you think you must have, just because it appears the rest of the world has it. And if given to you, it may seem great and fitting for a short time, but then it has the potential to fall apart, lose it’s strength and turn out to not be such a grand idea.

In Him, DeDe (Ps. 92:4 “You thrill me, LORD…”)

November 3, 2008 | Categories: * Devotionals | Leave a comment

The Oil Will Not Run Dry

Ever hit that ‘wall’? The wall commonly known as the athlete’s wall. Picture a runner, nearing the end of the race, all energy has been spent, their breathing is labored, their body screams in agony. Doubt, fear, and confusion, even anger now rage through them. “There is nothing left, I have nothing left to give!” is their cry. Yet and yet, they do finish the race.

There are many ‘walls’ of life. Moments when we feel we have little left to give, and what we do have, we feel we need to conserve it to make it to the next day. Perhaps, our supply is empty, there is nothing left. For many of us, we have opted to just allow ourselves to dry up and die. I have been there, it is painful.

Recently I was awaken very early in the morning. Still dark, I could hear the rain just outside the window. My thoughts went to Elijah. How often do our thoughts go to Elijah at 3:30 am.? The story of the widow and her son came to mind, out of 1 Kings 17. They had just enough flour and oil to make one last meal, after that nothing was left, they surely would die. In walks Elijah in the story, asking her to make him a meal first. Telling him of her plight, and empty cupboards, he tells her “Don’t be afraid” God says, “your supply of flour will not end, and the oil will not run dry.” She does what he says, and miraculously there is plenty of continuous oil and flour.

‘The oil will not run dry,’ what a wonderful promise. This encouraged me. Just when we think we have spent all that there is in us … there will be more. More coming from HIM. More energy to face another day. When our breathing is labored …more power to enable us to fight the good fight. When all that is in us SCREAMS … there will always be more. The oil will not run dry, a continuous flow of God is offered to us. We accept the oil by doing what God asks of us. Take what we have and give it to HIM, He increases it.

Whatever we are facing, whatever our race, “Don’t be afraid”, the walls of life are met with a jug of oil.  Allow its continuous flow.

In Him, DeDe (Psalm 92:4 “You thrill me, LORD …”)

October 13, 2008 | Categories: * Devotionals | Leave a comment

Caught of God

Recently I revisited Genesis 3, where God came to meet with Adam in the garden. It says “…He was walking in the garden in the cool of the day…” This said with such ease, as if it where a daily occurrence. Can you imagine  God taking a stroll in your backyard? Yet today, this was no casual stroll. You see, Adam and Eve had just eaten from the only tree that God planted a sign in front of ‘no eateth.’ Sure enough, our ancestors of all ancestors duth eat! Now they were hiding. Hiding from God.

Next, hear the very love and compassion of God, “But the LORD God called to the man…” God asks one of the most important questions ever stated in the Bible, in my estimation, “Where are you?” God being all-knowing, He knew exactly where they were. The question was not intended to find the answer, it was intended for … Adam. “Where are you?” This spurred Adam to consider his location … he was hiding, placing intentional distance between he and his God. His situation… he disobeyed. His fear … “I heard You in the garden, I was afraid.”

“But the LORD God called to the man, ‘Where are you?'” God was pursuing Adam. Sure He could have rigged the tree with a divine security system, that at the mere touch, heaven would zap Adam and Eve with enough force to turn them both back into dust. But He didn’t. He pursued them. We know the rest of the story, banishment from paradise, consequences, sweat and pain. “But the LORD God called to the man…”

God has called throughout history.  The Bible is the story of God’s pursuit of man.  He pursues you, and pursues me. He has provided every avenue for us to respond to His call. God loves us so much, that at times there is the need for Him to ask us again, “where are you?”

I have given this much thought over the past week. Often our relationship with God, is one as a child, we cozy up in His lap, but there are times we squirm out and run off and play. “Where are you?” Another question has settled in my heart, “what would it look like, really look like, in God’s pursuit of me, if I allowed Him to catch me?” O to be caught of God.  David said in Psalm 139 “O Lord, You have searched me and You know me… You hem me in behind and before.”  Saying also, “You are familiar with all my ways.”   The Lord knows where we are, He would like us to know where we are.
So where are we?  Has God visited our backyard recently,  perhaps we are hiding.  Has our disobedience caused us to fear?  Do we hear Him calling?  Can we stop and allow Him to catch us in the pursuit, and be caught of God.
 
It doesn’t matter where you are … “But the LORD God called to the man”

October 13, 2008 | Categories: * Devotionals | Leave a comment

The Piercing

 
August 19, 2008  (taken right off the pages of my personal journal)
 
God’s ordained timing is ALWAYS right, just and full of glory!   It has been the beating in the back of my heart to study what it is to be a true bondservant of God.   Now the beat stops and pauses, here now – look.

The claim to be a bondservant was spoken by Paul, James, Peter and Jude and the great apostle John. The quality too mentioned of our Lord Jesus. Paul writes in Ephesians  “…but as a bondservant of Christ, doing the will of God from the heart.” It is the condition of the heart, the life chooses.

Doulos, (bondservant) the Greek word alone expresses the intensity of the call. I hear it not as a soft spoken word, but one of guttural statement, as if to place your fisted hand pressed againt your gut, and with conviction … “DOULOS!”   Dwelling deep down, brought up only to express the desire to love and serve our God.
 
Paul says in Romans 12:11 “Never be lacking in zeal, but keep your spiritual fervor, serving the Lord.”  Spiritual fervor, it too conveys the deep burning, to well up in our service to God.

The bondservant is offered freedom to go his own way, yet given the choice to stay. The choice is to surrender, becoming altogether consumed in the will of the one they serve. Devotion is their motive. Going beyond their own interests to be attentive to their master.

Often we make decisions that are temporary, knowing the final outcome be just a short distance ahead of us. However, the decision of doulos is permanent. In the book of Deuteronomy chapter 15 it graciously describes the contract of the heart being signed by the piercing of the ear. The servant would have their ear pierced against the door post of the house, symbolizing permanence to the house and the master, attached and bonded.  It is known that the ring placed in the ear was of fine gold. The finest of materials, quality and longevity.  The process of becoming a bondervant:  choosing to stay, surrender to anothers will, allow the piercing, and wearing the gold ring.

Realizing the choice is of surrender  has impacted me. It is with guttural tone that I too say “I, a doulos of God.”   I do believe I am now feeling the pain of the piercing.  Piercing pain now, but fine gold as my identifier to come.  The decision of permanence seems so long.  Yet I know that one day, just reaching up and touching the gold in my ear will comfort me, that my Master’s will … has become my own.
 
I, a doulos of God.
 
In Him, DeDe (Ps. 92:4 “You thrill me, LORD …”)

August 21, 2008 | Categories: * Devotionals | Leave a comment

Bring It On!

“Patience is a virtue which many admire, but few attain,” so goes the saying. However, the Bible calls us  to walk in such a quality. A quality Galatians 5:22 describes as a fruit of the Spirit. The King Jimmy often uses one word for patience to translate two different Greek words. One is hupomone, it is enduring, remaining under and through circumstances. Simply stated ‘staying put’, this quality is motivated by hope.

The other is makrothumia (love this word on my tongue) this is long-suffering with people, motivated by mercy. It shares the description of having self-restraint before proceeding to action. Literally, it is being of long breath, the ability to not lose one’s temper. Such a person displaying this quality would be of calm spirit.  Patience, NOT a quality I excel in!

It is not only a fruit of the Spirit, but one that we ‘put on’, along with compassion, kindness and humility (Colossians 3:12) . Also an attribute of love (1 Cor. 13:4).

One of my favorite prayers of the Bible is found in Colossians 1:9-11 (NKJV)

“we do not cease to pray for you, and to ask that you may be filled with the knowledge of His will in all wisdom and spiritual understanding; that you may walk worthy of the Lord, fully pleasing Him, being fruitful in every good work and increasing in the knowledge of God; strengthened with all might, according to His glorious power, for all patience (hupomone) and longsuffering (makrothumia) with joy.” (emphasis mine)

We are to have both patience and longsuffering in circumstances and with people …‘with joy’.

Neither flow from my spiritual veins very strong. This week I had the opportunity to grow in the hope and mercy department, propelled by the confrontation of PATIENCE! I was sitting at the computer one day, preparing and typing up my personal notes for a class I am teaching. Can anyone say … ‘Exegesis and hermeneutics?’

Humming right along and focused – UNTIL. Until I decided to shift gears, NOT taking notice that I did not SAVE my file. WHAM! BAM! Gone. GONE I TELL YOU!    (head hung – despair )

AFTER, I got past the anger, I regrouped my attitude, and began again. I knew in an instant (after the long pause of self-pity) that this was a test of patience on both accounts. Patience knowing that I would indeed get my notes typed again, (HOPE!) and the need to have patience with … myself   (DeDe have MERCY on DeDe). Patience… expressed hope, and mercy (even if the recipient is me)

I Thessalonians 5:14 says “… be patient with everyone.” Everyone, with our brothers and sisters and yes… yours truly… yourself.

This week, may we put on, have love, and share His Spirit, an extension of God stuff, cutting others some slack (and ourselves) through the expressed quality of patience.  Bring it on … MERCY and HOPE!

In Him, DeDe   (Ps. 92:4 ” You thrill me, LORD …”)

July 29, 2008 | Categories: * Devotionals | Leave a comment

Present in His Presence

God is so terribly GOOD.  His presence alone can bring the toughest man down, the weakest woman to stand tall, and the young, wise beyond their years.

His presence is to be sought after. David says in Psalm 34:8 “Open your mouth and taste, open your eyes and see – how good God is. Blessed are you who RUN to Him.” (The Message)

When we RUN, we don’t hesitate when we get closer, stutter step and hold back. Hebrews 10:22 “Let us draw near to God with a sincere heart ...” James says “Draw near to God and He will draw near to you.” (James 4:8)  What a holy and royal invitation.

Drawing near, means to come in close. What a wonderful picture is painted in the Greek, in a sense we are ‘to be present in His presence’.  Yet, it is more than just merely showing up, we are FULLY aware ~  approaching and present with devotion of heart. Once in His presence, we receive His grace and mercy (Heb. 4:16).

This week, let’s run, RUN hard after our God, not hesitating, come in close, and be ever so present (mind, will and emotionally) with Him. Once there, may we declare as Moses did in Exodus 33:15 “… if Your Presence does not go with us, do not send us up from here.”

Run – come in close – be present.

In Him, DeDe  (Psalm 92:4 “You thrill me, LORD …”)

July 19, 2008 | Categories: * Devotionals | Leave a comment

Muttering

I am a people watcher. What a royal hoot to sit and just observe those around us. The Mall is my favorite, so many folks going about their business. They carry bags, purses, pushing strollers, some are sitting on benches watching … ME! Have you ever observed someone walking pass you, and talking and there is no apparent person with them, they just talk. Our first response is, “Um… their dipstick isn’t exactly touching the oil.” We shrug it off as strange and weird.

Talking to oneself is extremely biblical. Well, I MUST add within the correct context mind you. The Psalmist expresses in Psalm 119:15-16 “I meditate on Your precepts and consider Your ways. I delight in Your decrees; I will not neglect Your word.”

In the Hebrew, mediation means, ‘to rehearse in ones mind, and to ponder’. Yet it is more, it literally means to mutter, to converse with oneself. Those of ancient Israel, would be found working in the fields, or a top a hill watching their herd all the while they were muttering to themselves. This was a way of life. They would recite aloud to themselves the ways of God and His word. Reinforcing and strengthening his understanding by meditating on verses over and over. Speaking God’s word reinforces it in our heart.

Rick Warren says this about mediation in his book, The Purpose Driven Life: “Mediation is focused thinking. It takes serious effort. You select a verse and reflect on it over and over again… if you know how to worry, you already know how to meditate.” He continues with “No other habit can do more to transform your life and make you more like Jesus than daily reflection on scripture.” (page 190)

There was and still is a practice done by monks called “Lectio Divina”, which is Latin for ‘divine reading’. In its purest form, it is slow methodical reading of scripture. Cultivating the ability to listen, deeply hear with ears of our heart what God is saying. THIS is a lost art in my estimation.

Many of us upon hearing the word meditation, we immediately think of the Eastern forms and religions that practice, the emptying of the mind, with the goal of tapping into ones energy to increase personal development, while sitting in an extremely uncomforatble position (um.. gag). The Christian on the other hand, is NOT emptying the mind, but FIILING it. We use scripture to purse the knowledge of God, His wisdom and His holiness.

When we meditate on scripture we are taking the time and effort after we read something to think about what we have read. Remember the Word of God is “God-breathed” (2 Tim. 3:16) and “living and active” (Heb. 4:12) – we NEED to participate and engage in it.

What we are doing is taking God’s word and ingesting it and digesting it, allowing it to become a part of us. A really poor analogy is that of a cow chewing his cud. Throughout the day he works to gather, bite and chew the grass, then later as he relaxes he begins to re-chew the grass. He brings it up from his gut. I believe God wants us to have His word in our gut! Nothing like a ‘Gut Christian’!  Ever known someone who when they speak you can tell God’s word is so deep within them, their gut is FULL of God.

Mediation also conveys the idea of to sigh, or moan and groan. There are times that to bring up what is in our gut causes us to sigh. So deep that only God can hear it.

Our society and our schedules give very little time to think or reflect. Let alone talk it out loud. We are conditioned by our culture to NOT think, (per say) resulting in the in-ability to reason effectively. One of the biggest contributors to this is TV and movies. Did you know the average scene is 3 seconds! We are conditioned to think and jump from one thing to another so quickly that in a sense we have to be stimulated and entertained to pay attention. Sadly we take this into our relationship with Jesus and His word.

Somethings do NOT come in 3 seconds. Somethings take time. Time to ponder, muse and mutter over. This week, as we sit before God’s word, read it methodically as the monks do (no cloak required) taking the time to THINK and SPEAK it. May the Holy Spirit rub it in our heart, effectively causing it to become a part of us, deep down in our gut!
So, YES… talk to yourself… keep on muttering!
In Him, DeDe (Psalm 92:4 “You thrill me, LORD…”)
* Devotion is an excerpt from  my class Personal Bible Study

July 19, 2008 | Categories: * Devotionals | Leave a comment