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Make Every Effort

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“Our greatest weakness lies in giving up. The most certain way to succeed is always to try just one more time.” Said Thomas Edison, who after 1000 attempts, succeeds with the invention of the light bulb. Try just one more time!  The 4 guys carrying the paralytic in Mark chapter 2, understood this. Jesus is preaching to a packed house (literally) “Since they could not get him to Jesus because of the crowd, they …” the story continues with the guys making an opening on the roof and lowering their friend right-in-front-of Jesus. Jesus seeing their faith, He heals buddy number 5, because they kept going, creatively going.

We are lazy people (in general) we give up quickly or keep our efforts minimal at best, after all, we wouldn’t want to exert ourselves. (Phew) We take this into our God walk as well. Peter wrote; “By His divine power, God has given us everything we need for living a godly life… He has given us great and precious promises, enabling you to share in His divine nature.” (2 Pet 1:3-4, NLT) He continues, “In view of this, MAKE EVERY EFFORT …” (v5a, emphasis mine). Give all diligence in making good use of what God provides, apply it – apply yourselves! Peter goes on, saying ‘add to’ your faith; moral excellence, knowledge, self-control, steadfastness, godliness, brotherly affection, and love (vv 5-7). I would liken it to the Israelites in the wilderness, God provided the manna to survive, they were to go out and gather it, (yes, they had to work to get it) diligently they worked, adding to their jar each lil flake, they did this DAILY. (Ex. 16) Do WE put forth an effort to get the God stuff? Do we make time, make room, make it a PRIORITY to be in His word, talk to Him DAILY! Or do we mess around, give lil effort or quit altogether. Our very thriving existence depends on the effort we put into it!

Oh, and as for the guys and his lowered down friend? At Jesus’ word, he jumps up, grabs his mat and walked through the stunned onlookers. ‘They were all amazed and praised God…” (Mk 2:12) Those not giving up men with their determination to get to Jesus brought about a miracle, that miracle amazed the folks, which initiated praise. God doing a miracle in our own lives WILL catch the attention of others to the glory of God – our effort brings God glory!

Make every effort.

In Him, DeDe (“Let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love & good deeds.” – Hebrews 10:24)

Posted by  |  July 7, 2019 | Categories: * Miscellanous Stuff | Leave a comment

Know the facts, not the hype

not so tough

60 SECOND BIBLE STUDY: Goliath was NOT all that!  Taking a closer look: 1 Samuel 17 – Goliath may not have been as big and nasty as perceived, or as LARGE as the flannel graph silhouette from Sunday school, scholars believe he may have been perhaps only 6 1/2 feet to 9 feet.  Super-sized large or not, there are other interesting facts to be had. When pictured, either mentally or vibrantly sketched, we usually see just the two of them facing off (Goliath & David) yet there was a 3rd person out there, Goliath’s shield bearer whom Goliath was standing behind (v7 & 41). Not so tough now big guy! But what is fascinating: when young David steps forward to fight, Goliath mocks him about being just a boy and coming at him with a stick, yet Goliath doesn’t change his stance, he doesn’t drop any weapons, doesn’t take off any shielding, or send the shield bearer away. This so called champion was still concerned. And rightly so, that boy who RAN towards him, was the future warrior-king (and killed him and cut off his head).
 Sadly, the foes and so-called giants we face get deemed BIGGER and BADDER (Yes, that is a word according to my granddaughter) than they really are, in reality they are not all that, especially when we, like David, come against them in the name of the LORD Almighty!  As a dear friend said, “Sometimes it’s the hype that undermines our confidence not the facts.”   We are to direct our attention to the truth of God and not allow unhealthy thoughts, fears or perceptions to take us captive (like Goliath did the with the Isrealites, v11).  I’ll leave us with the wise words of Paul, “We use our powerful God-tools for smashing warped philosophies, tearing down barriers erected against the truth of God, fitting every loose thought and emotion and impulse into the structure of life shaped by Christ.” (paraphrased, 2 Cor. 10:5 –  The Message)

Know the facts, not the hype.

In Him, DeDe (“Let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love & good deeds.” – Hebrews 10:24)

Posted by  |  July 1, 2019 | Categories: * Miscellanous Stuff | Leave a comment

Living By Design

 

Solomon wrote; “Guard your heart above all else, for it determines the course of your life.” (Proverbs 4:23, NLT)  Good words, wise words.  Solomon was stinkin wise. 1 Kings 4:31 makes mention, listing those he was wiser than. In this list, among many, we find ‘Ethan the Ezrahite‘. Can you imagine going down in permanent history, basically being said of you, “Ethan, oh he’s the not so wise guy Dude!” – overshadowed by another, someone greater than you?  We live in a society where there are comparative views of about EVERYTHING.  “This tastes better than that… over there is more spacious than here…he sings better than him… she is prettier-thinner-gifted and smarter than her… they have more than us.”  Comparison.

Even though, Solomon was granted wisdom and a discerning heart by God (See conversation in 1 Kings 3) reading this narrative of Ethan, we can’t stop there! Scholars believe Psalm 89 is attributed to this same Ethan the Ezrahite. He is divinely granted parchment space of 52 verses.  He writes of God’s steadfast love and faithfulness of covenant, with strong worshipful words, “I will sing of the LORD’s great love forever; with my mouth, I will make Your faithfulness known through all generations.” (v1)  He goes on to declare  “You have made … established… You rule… crushed… scattered … founded, and created…”  THAT is some dandy declaring!

Overshadowed Ethan?  I think not.  Yes, not as wise by design as Solomon, but he was impacting, he was declaring, worshiping Ethan,  “O LORD God Almighty, who is like You? You are mighty…” (v8)

May we be inspired, it is not a matter of comparison, but one of living by design. What will WE do, write or sing?

Stinkin wise?  Perhaps not, but making known God’s love and faithfulness.

In Him, DeDe (“Let us consider how we may spur one another on towards love & good deeds.” – Hebrews 10:24)

Posted by  |  May 6, 2019 | Categories: * Miscellanous Stuff | Leave a comment

Fresh Fire

 

The lamp, warm dancing flame seen with silhouetted patterns on the wall.  Soothing isn’t it?  One could sit for hours in its glow, just admiring the effect it has on us.  There is something about a flickering flame.

The Lord revealed Himself many times in the flame, the bush with Moses, where he was commissioned and Yahweh gives His name, “I AM THAT I AM” (Exodus 3) and the pillar of fire at night to the Israelites, extending His guidance (Exodus 13).  Solomon dedicating the Temple, fire came down from heaven as God’s glory filled it (2 Chron. 7). One cannot talk fire without mentioning the showdown on Mt. Carmel, Elijah and his God against the prophets of Baal (1 Kings 18) – we WIN!

Oh, we may not be calling God down from heaven these days to consume our sacrifice to prove a point, but the use of the flame on a smaller note we can understand.  The theme of the candle or lamp in the Bible is strong.  In Psalm 18:28 David writes “For thou wilt light my lamp: the LORD my God will enlighten my darkness.”   Psalm 119:105 “Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light for my path.”   It is God that burns, His presence, His word that lights our way.

I am currently leading our women’s group through the study of the Tabernacle of Moses, amazing story of being set apart and of sacrifice and light.  With the joy and privilege of the lamps comes responsibility, requiring tending.  The priests DAILY tended to the lamp in the Tabernacle, along with the sacrifice and the water, these needed daily attention.  When God gave strict instruction of the articles for the Tabernacle, He included the ‘wick trimmers’ being made of pure gold. (Exodus 25:38)

In my research, I found the need that as we trim the wick short (i.e. of today’s waxed candles) we ‘cut off yesterday’s fire.’  If not, the wick begins to have a small build up causing the flame not to burn pure and burn too fast and this creating soot attaching itself to those things closest to the flame.  We trim for a fresh, even, pure, lasting flame!  Fresh Fire!  Does that stir something in you?

The Lord spoke to me about the need to come DAILY, seeking His presence, His word, that FRESH FIRE, depending not on yesterday, but tending to TODAY.  Representing a true pursuit of Him, giving Him priority and signifying value to our relationship.  As I trim my wick and prepare for a fresh word from God, His presence comes.  As He did with Moses, He will reveal Himself to me, commissioning me for the day.  As His child, He will guide me – His temple, He will fill me.  And just like Elijah, He will do great things in my midst.

How is our flame burning?  Are we tending?  Is it yesterdays fire, has it cooled down or gone out completely or perhaps a bit messy due to lack of attention.

Fresh fire.

In Him, DeDe (“Let us consider how we may spur one another on towards love & good deeds.” – Hebrews 10:24)

Posted by  |  April 28, 2019 | Categories: * Miscellanous Stuff | Tags: , | Leave a comment

Post Easter – Now What?

Earless chocolate bunnies and leftover deviled eggs in the frig. Post-Easter. Now what?   Do we rummage through the calendar for another holiday or event to look forward to? What excites us about the future or even … daily?   May I be so bold in asking, what causes our insides to burn with excitement, what consumes our mind and emotions, what drives our behavior?

Post-Easter.

Jesus’ resurrection is AMAZING!  WONDERFUL!  DIVINE! However, let’s not stop there. There is more!  Let’s unpack this in a brief summary.  Stay with me, this is good! Luke 24, it speaks of the women going to the tomb, once there they find two angels who notify them that Jesus was no longer there, He’s risen from the dead! The gals go back to tell the others. Peter, as energetic as he was, runs to go see and confirms Jesus wasn’t there.  Just following that, (v13) it says “Now that same day…” It proceeds to unfold the story of the two walking to Emmaus, who unknown to them at first, encounter Jesus. They are flabbergasted that this Stranger didn’t seem to know what had just transpired in Jerusalem.  Sharing their disappointment, “We had hoped that He was the one who was going to redeem Israel.” Going on they explained how Jesus’ body was not found. Verse 27, “Then He (Jesus) started at the beginning, with the Books of Moses, and went on through all the Prophets, pointing out everything in the Scriptures that referred to Him.”   WOW, I’d love a one on one instant Bible study from the lips of the Master!

It wasn’t until Jesus was seated at their table, in their home and they accepted the bread He offered, and that their eyes were opened and they knew WHO He was. I love their response, “They said to each other, “Didn’t our hearts burn within us as He talked with us on the road and explained the Scriptures to us?”  (v32)

Their hearts burning within them. I want spiritual heartburn! I want my soul, mind, thoughts, passions, desires, and appetites to burn with Him and His Word! The word Luke chooses to use for ‘burning’ is very colorful. It doesn’t just mean to strike a match and light the kindling and watch it slowly give off heat. No, it RAVISHES through the wood and consumes it!  Luke is emphasizing to be GREATLY moved of heart. Burn Lord!

Yet some would argue that the two didn’t even recognize Jesus when He shared the Word with them. However, Paul writes, “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) To have the very Son of God, His presence and He b-r-e-a-t-h-e these words to them, teaching them, training them, equipping them – THAT would cause their heart to burn.  Notice Jesus didn’t lay hands on them, put mud on their eyes.  He didn’t even send them to the Priest for verification; He simply… walked with them. Walking and talking, and they were transformed.  The narrative says they got up at once and went back to Jerusalem testifying that Jesus has indeed RISEN.

For us? The next time we find our seat at church or open the Bible for devotion time, let’s not daydream off to another place, let’s do some focused walking and talking.  Jesus told us, “The Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in My name, will teach you all things…” (John 14:26) We just need to show up for the lesson (And pay attention, take notes, ask questions).  THIS is the event, the daily event we will look forward to.

And …burn Lord, BURN within us!

Post-Easter.

Interesting: It was NOT the custom that the guest would serve the bread, but Jesus did – (COULD IT BE) as He pulled up the sleeves of His cloak, they saw the nail prints on His wrists! THERE! Do you see it! NOW! Recognizing Jesus! May we too be aware and see what He puts in front of us! (Point to Ponder)

In Him, DeDe (“Let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love & good deeds.” – Hebrews 10:24)

Posted by  |  April 22, 2019 | Categories: * Miscellanous Stuff | Tags: , | Leave a comment

It is FINISHED – A Red Letter Day!

 

Have you ever sat and read the New Testament and read ONLY the words in red, Jesus’ words?  For a completely new perspective, I challenge us to do just that. I know context is everything, but let’s step out of the exegesis box (interpreting the scriptures) for a brief moment, to get an amazing snapshot of Jesus, His strength, authority, His love, and compassion.

Without all the narrative, those stand-alone red words pack a powerful punch, knowing they are Jesus. There are dramatic statements, strong commands, and tender words. “Let it be so…” (Matt 3:15) “It is written…” (Matt 4:4) “Get up…” (Matt 9:6) “Take courage it is I…” (Matt 14:27) “Quiet, be still…” (Mk 4:39) “Come forth …” (Jn 11:43) “Don’t be afraid just believe…” (Mk 5:36)  “What do you want Me to do for you…” (Mk 10:51) “Who do you say I am…” (Lk 9:20) “Then neither do I condemn you…” (Jn 8:11) “I am…” (Jn 18:6).

These are just a few, but there is one more that stands out among the rest. Here I do want to set the context. Jesus is agonizingly set between two thieves. His feet and hands are nailed to a wooden cross. There at the foot of the cross, many mocked, some cried and I am confident there were those in complete silence. After the vinegar water was given to Jesus, He said, “It is finished…” (John 19:30) He then bowed His head and gave up His spirit.

‘It is finished’.  (Hang with me, this is GOOD God stuff!)  The word in Greek is amazing! Stand back and take in the whole Technicolor filled screen, I don’t think even Steven Spielberg with all his creative genius could convey the scene that was unfolding upon humanity. ‘It is finished’ (Tetelestai) “To bring to an end, to fulfill. What is done corresponds to what has been said, ordered or commanded.”  (“Not My will, but Your will be done.” – Jesus, Lk 22:42) It is accomplishing something not merely to end it, but bring it to perfection for its designed goal.” (Please read that again).  It signifies the successful end to a particular course of action. Grammatically in the Greek, it is a crucial word; it is in the ‘perfect tense’.  Meaning the action was completed in the past with results continuing in the present. Basically, “This happened and it is still in effect TODAY.”  One might say, “The gift that keeps on giving.”  This is different from ‘past tense’, which points to an event, declaring ‘This happened – nothing more -the end’.

NOT our Jesus, He is our NOW God!

As Jesus said this, His blood flowing down His forehead, from His hands and His feet, His sacrifice, now eliminating the debt owed by mankind (you and me). May we take careful notice, Jesus didn’t say. “I am finished.”  That would imply He a mere man and die defeated. Instead, He declares, “It is finished.”  When He died and with His resurrection power, He left no unfinished business behind, He successfully completed the work He came to do.  Please note (this is HUGE) – when Jesus rose from the dead and the stone was found ‘rolled away’ it was NOT so He, (the Son of God, Who walked on water, Who spoke to the wind and waves and they obeyed) could get out, it was so mankind could get in!  Get in and see “He isn’t here! He is risen from the dead, just as He said would happen. Come, see where His body was lying.” (Matthew 28:6)

As the pages turn from Genesis to this very moment, Jesus rises from the dead triumphantly (Happy Easter) the bridge back to the Father is perfected – He engages and commissions the disciples, returns to heaven to reign forever. Does it end here?  No. Now we the church, with the authority given by Jesus Himself, as inspired by Holy Spirit carry on with the red letter commands, statements, and tender words.

Move over Easter Bunny, here comes the risen King! “It is finished!”  Relationship offered, relationship restored. May we live each day as a red-letter day!

In Him, DeDe  (“Let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds.”- Hebrews 10:24)

* Resources: Complete Word Study Dictionary of the New Testament, Greek-English Lexicon of the New Testament, Vine’s Expository of New Testament Words, Strong’s Greek Dictionary, Theological Dictionary of the New Testament, Expository Dictionary of Bible Words, NASB Hebrew-Greek Dictionary, Thayer’s Greek-English Lexicon. And any other resource I forgot to tag, yet skimmed through.  Greek Interlinear Bible words it: “He said, “It has been accomplished.” (Yes, I am a God loving, His daughter, passionate for His Word geek).

 

Posted by  |  April 19, 2019 | Categories: * Miscellanous Stuff | Tags: , , | Leave a comment

Remember (Easter Devo)

We might say we need to remember that Lincoln is the capital of Nebraska for the seven across answer on a crossword puzzle, or that in ‘1492 Columbus sailed the ocean blue’ for a rousing game of Trivia – facts, mere facts.   However, remembering in the Bible is different.  Jewish culture treats remembering as a behavioral response, just as hearing and obeying are synonymous. Some 235+ times remember is mentioned.  In the Hebrew, it literally means ‘to properly mark, so as to recognize.’ The first mention is found in the story of Noah.  God puts Noah, his family and the animals in a big boat, while 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 marked Noah.  His plan was implemented and in process.  Genesis 9, the ark now sits on dry ground, Noah and family are out, the animals disperse, God promises not to destroy everything with water again, sealing His promise, 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.”  (Genesis 9:13-16 NIV, emphasis mine)

The sign of the rainbow is a reminder to GOD – when the bow appears, He remembers, His response would be consistent with His covenant.  He remembers, He rescues and He acts. 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, see also Hebrews 10)    God’s response is consistent with His character.  His plan was implemented and in process.

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 revelation, awareness of their God, and of relationship, they are His.

Remember.

Jesus also speaks of remembering.  The Last Supper, He 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 plan was implemented and in process. We, who are heirs of all the promises (Galatians 3:29) are to remember.  The call to remember goes beyond mental facts, beyond partaking of the bread and wine, it is a call for response – of recognition – ALL that He is, all that He did, we remember His covenant, His character… He remembers, He rescues and He acts -invoking a response on our part of worship and of lifestyle.

This world is loud and crazy busy – as we near Good Friday and Resurrection Sunday (Happy Easter!) may we take pause of life, and of heart and properly mark Jesus!  His plan was implemented and in process – “The Word became flesh and made His dwelling among us. We have seen His glory, the glory of the One and Only, who came from the Father, full of grace and truth.” (John 1:14)  Can I get an AMEN!

Remember.

In Him, DeDe (“Let us consider how we may spur one another on towards love & good deeds.” – Hebrews 10:24)

Posted by  |  April 17, 2019 | Categories: * Miscellanous Stuff | Tags: , , , | Leave a comment

Kingly Perfumed – Easter Devotional

“Six days before the Passover…” Mary took a pint of perfume and poured it on Jesus’ feet, the house filled with the fragrance, (much to Judas’ dislike).   This was one day prior to Jesus’ triumphal entry (John 12).

The narrative describes the triumphal entry, “The next day…” it is safe to say, Jesus still smelled quite fragrant from the oil.  This being of Jewish telling, in Jewish culture, whilst Jewish people stood on the street as Jesus passed by, they (potentially) smelling the fragrance, resonated the Kingly procession, as they shouted: “Hosanna!  Blessed is He who comes in the name of the Lord!  Blessed is the King of Israel.

Anointing was a priestly and kingly custom: “He (Moses) poured some of the anointing oil on Aaron’s head and anointed him to consecrate him.” (Leviticus 8:12)  “Samuel took a flask of oil and poured it on Saul’s head…” (1 Samuel 10:1) “So Samuel took the horn of oil and anointed him (David) in the presence of his brothers…” (1 Samuel 16:13)   “… they acknowledged Solomon son of David…anointing him before the LORD to be ruler…” (1 Chronicles 29:22) Interesting, Mary anoints Jesus’ feet.  Could it be, (just an observation) yes, the custom was washing the visitor’s feet from the dusty paths but could the anointing of His feet, (not His head) display the declared Majesty of God on earth, His Kingly walk among man, “The Word became flesh and made His dwelling among us.  We have seen His glory, the glory of the One & Only, who came from the Father, full of grace & truth.” (John 1:14)

The word John uses, as Mary’s perfume is ‘myron’ a form of ‘myrrh.’  Sound familiar? What is the divine significance of myrrh? It was an ingredient used in the anointing oil of the Tabernacle and the priests.  (Exodus 30:22-23) The perfumed oil poured over Jesus’ feet.  (John 12:3)  It was also an ingredient in the spices to prepare Jesus’ body for burial.  (John 19:39-40) And we can’t forget the gift given to the toddler Jesus by the Magi (Matthew 2:9-12).

Could the people on the street smell their King coming, perhaps, perhaps not, but what beautiful imagery of the thread of anointing oil through biblical history as it wraps its way around Jesus.

“Hosanna!  Blessed is He who comes in the name of the Lord!  Blessed is the King of Israel.”

In Him, DeDe (“Let us consider how we may spur one another on towards love & good deeds.” – Hebrews 10:24)

Posted by  |  April 5, 2019 | Categories: * Miscellanous Stuff | Leave a comment

Leveling

Our car has this fantastic ‘heads up display’ feature, where a projector thingy shoots transparent info up from the dashboard onto my windshield directly above the steering wheel.  I can adjust the settings and the height just for me; the speed, gear, outside temp, even radio channel, all so I don’t have to look away. BRILLIANT!  No one else can see it, it’s kinda (Psst… come closer to the screen) my secret stealth maneuvering gadget, (SSMG – I’m sure 007 had one!) OKAY, okay… maybe not, but I love it!

King David too had such stealthiness, when maneuvering his LIFE, he writes, “I have set the LORD always before me, because He is at my right hand, I will not be shaken.” (Psalm 16:8)  He continues, “I have chosen the way of faithfulness; I set Your rules before me.”  (Psalm 119:30)  Set.  The word is shavah (in the Hebrew) its meaning is to level, to equalize, to resemble, the context here, is to focus.  David is stating he puts God and God’s word before him, right where he can see – but he doesn’t just see, he balances! Seeing the standard of God and seeing himself, he then faithfully makes adjustments – leveling, a focused endeavor of aligning. David follows with “No wonder my heart is glad and I rejoice…” (Psalm 16:9)

Following David’s example, placing God and God’s word in front of me, (with a boatload of adjusting). THE guide, all I need right there, with no need to look away.  BRILLANT!  THE ultimate ‘heads up display.’

Y’all try being in my head, driving down the road, seeing the ‘speed’ staring at me and first thought, “OK! Now isnt THIS a shavah of sorts!”  (And yes, the speed was adjusted).

In Him, DeDe (“Let us consider how we may spur one another on towards love & good deeds.” – Hebrews 10:24)

LORD: In scripture, we often see Lord in all caps, this tells the reader this is the covenantal name Yahweh (YHWH – “I AM”) the name given to Moses (Ex. 3) when he asks of God, when I go to Egypt demanding Your people set free, WHO am I to say sent me?  Tell them, “I AM has sent me to you.”  God replied. (v14)  LORD.

Posted by  |  March 25, 2019 | Categories: * Miscellanous Stuff | Tags: , , | Leave a comment

A YOU Focus

“O God, You are my God; Early will I seek You; My soul thirsts for You; My flesh longs for You in a dry and thirsty land where there is no water.  So I have looked for You in the sanctuary, to see Your power and Your glory. Because Your lovingkindness is better than life, my lips shall praise You. Thus I will bless You while I live; I will lift up my hands in Your name.” Psalm 63:1-4

Each night before my husband and I go to sleep, he reads a Psalm over us, his loving voice and the rhythmic sound of scripture, especially the Psalms is gently soothing – so poetic, so honest – so declaring, so full of praise! The Psalmist starts as if standing on a hilltop and echoes of majestic relationship, “O God, You are my God!”   He then states early I seek You.  This early isn’t just a time frame mentioned, but a declaration of discipline.  Literally, EARNESTLY I will seek YOU!  Painstakingly I will set aside all things and YOU will be my focus. My in the moment – first thing YOU!

This world is so full of me, we, us and I, it really is refreshing to take a step back and see what is BIGGER than us, BETTER and worthy of our focus and pursuit. SO WORTHY – His power and glory, His lovingkindness! Our lips praise HIM, our hands raised in HIS name!  Morning or night it’s a YOU focus!

“O God, You are my God!”

In Him, DeDe (“Let us consider how we may spur one another on towards love & good deeds.” – Hebrews 10:24)

Posted by  |  March 16, 2019 | Categories: * Miscellanous Stuff | Tags: , | Leave a comment

If it is Possible

We are list people, whether we write it down or attempt to contain it all in our head, we love us some lists.  We list what needs to be done, our goals and items to pick up at the store.  Paul too loved his lists; the nine Fruit of the Spirit (Gal. 5:22,23) his ‘think on these things’ (Phil. 4:8) and of course ‘Love is…’ (1 Cor. 13). There is yet another list, a list full of practical lifestyle responses, ‘in view of God’s mercy…’  found in Romans chapter 12.   We are told to be devoted, joyful, patient, hospitable and faithful, we are to love, cling and honor and in no way are we to lack zeal, curse others, and repay evil.  My favorite of this list is verse 18 “If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with each other.”   ‘If it is possible.’ Hm, interesting, there is no if …it hangs low enough, to where I can reach it and cling to what is good or if …you can muster up some patience or devotion.  Nope, you just get those done through the Holy Spirit (in Jesus name).

The fact remains, there are times, peace does not reign in relationships, it takes a ton of work and an abundance of divine intervention.   ‘Peace’ (Eirene in the Greek) which literally means ‘set at one’ – the word picture conveys something that was once erected, has either been removed or toppled over.  Chaos, frustration, strife and even war can be the result of the deep crevasse left behind.  Peace is putting it back in its place – set at one! The ultimate example; the Garden activities in Genesis; All things are good, then man messes up, the God/man relationship is broken [leaving a hole].  Fast forward – Jesus comes [Prince of Peace] the glorious Son puts things back in its place, things made right, He fills the chasm, we now have… Peace. (Ro. 5:1)

When there is strife or any evidence of some toppling over, do we do our very best to identify, pull up and reset what is missing?  Do we invest ourselves in seeing peace restored?   Paul gives a simuliar list to the Ephesians, yet wraps it up with a divine-like bow: “Be gentle with one another, sensitive. Forgive one another as quickly and thoroughly as God in Christ forgave you.”  (4:32 MSG) I love his direct prodding and not to mention (but I will) hint of admonishing.  He plays the holy tag-team card, God forgave – ‘your turn.’ What a challenge!  How painful!   How risky – but worth it.  Putting God and God stuff back in the center, THAT is seeking peace with my brothers and sister.  ‘If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with each other.’

In Him, DeDe (“Let us consider how we may spur one another on towards love & good deeds.” – Hebrews 10:24)

 

Posted by  |  February 28, 2019 | Categories: * Miscellanous Stuff | Tags: , , | Leave a comment

The Hemming of God

Recently I was reminded of a time I spent on a loved one’s cattle farm.  This particular visit we were working with the cattle one-on-one, giving them medication and much-needed individual attention. As the day went on, one particular cow impacted me, she was spunky and fought the process the whole way, we got her into the funneled shoot and once she was in the head gate, I put the rump board in behind her to hold her in nice and tight, no backing out. This poor gal – she thrashed so hard, causing the farmer to get a nose clamp, this was a metal clamp with a large rope attached to it, he placed it in the nostrils of the cow and brought her head up and tied her off.  This was done for her own safety.  She fought so hard that she ended up on her knees, and there she stayed.  If she would just calm down! Oh the pain, not for her, but for me!   I reached out and patted her, tenderly saying, “Just yield, it would be less painful.”  As the words escaped my lips, I stopped and sensed Holy Spirit tap my shoulder with a divine nod.  YES!  If I too would just yield to my Master, it would be less painful.

How often do we find ourselves in the ‘shoot and headgate’ of God (if you will)?  He is wanting to prepare us, heal us, create His character in us, and teach us – but … we fight it.  We thrash, bawl, and complain, oh it may be uncomfortable, and perhaps even feel a bit boarded in – the hemming of God.  David speaks of this, but in the context of BLESSING; “Before there is a word on my tongue You know it completely, O LORD. You hem me in – behind and before; You have laid Your hand upon me. Such knowledge is too wonderful for me, too lofty for me to attain.” (Psalm 139:4-6)  He goes on to say, “Your works are wonderful, I know that full well.” (v 14b)

I have to admit, I can relate to the sweet bawling cow, I too once required the nose clamp (for my own good) after I thrashed about for a bit, I sensed God’s hand on me, and it was GOOD – I know that full well!

Sometimes we come to God quietly and other times kicking and screaming – either way, thank you, Lord, for the hemming!

In Him, DeDe (“Let us consider how we may spur one another on towards love & good deeds.” – Hebrews 10:24)

* Please know, no cows in the above story were harmed, our spunky bawling cow was only in the head gate just a couple of moments and soon released out into the pasture.

 

Posted by  |  February 23, 2019 | Categories: * Miscellanous Stuff | Tags: , , | Leave a comment

Going Through – A Divine Necessity

There are times God takes us around life circumstances to protect us from harm and or protect us from what we may not be ready for.  Yet, there ARE times we are to go through.  We look at Jesus as our model.

John 4, verse 4 “Now He (Jesus) HAD to go through Samaria.” (Emphasis mine) your Bible may read, ‘He needed…’ or ‘He must…’ go through Samaria.  The word used here literally means ‘necessary’ (with a divine twist) not implying geographically, there was another route, a route other devout Jews took, a route out and around, the long way to avoid the Samaritan people.  The Samaritan folks were known as half-breeds; (in short) centuries earlier the Israelite territory was overtaken by Assyrians, many left, yet those who remained inter-married, they established their own teaching, establishing their own truth.

Scholars believe the narrative speaks (in context) to Jesus’ itinerary being subject to the sovereign plan of God – going THROUGH Samaria (where others avoided) was a divine necessity!  Jesus HAD to meet the woman at the well – she HAD to have an encounter with Jesus (“The way, the truth, and the life.” – Jn 14:6) – it was of divine necessity she took her news of Jesus back to her people, where ‘many… and many more believed in Him.’ (v39 & 41).

This going through was not an inconvenience for Jesus, going through was not geographically necessary, it was God necessary.  We see later in Acts, multiple times when mentioning the ‘church’ Samaria is listed – Jesus Himself laid the groundwork – He didn’t opt for the routine route – He went through.  We see Jesus use the same need or must; “You MUST be born again…” (Jn 3:7) And John the Baptist said, “He (Jesus) MUST increase, I MUST decrease…” (Jn 3:30) Divine necessity indeed!  The principle for us: Following God’s leading, other than a routine route is not a DETOUR – it is a divine necessity of His sovereign plan.  The plan may be for us, for someone else, or both.

May we take note: God may NOT have us go through the same way (next time).  It would be a shame to tell God, “Been there, done this – I’ve got this!” When He’s left standing, pointing at something different.  When escaping the Egyptians, God had Moses reach out his staff and the waters parted at the Red Sea – however, when finally entering the Promised Land, He instructed Joshua to have the priests carry the Ark to the river’s edge, once their feet touched the water, it too parted.  Perhaps it may appear the same ‘go through’ but – His method may be different.  It is HIS plan, HIS path, HIS how and when.  His.

My through and your through may look different, they are of His divine plan, He may take us around – either the around or through is for His glory!

In Him, DeDe (“Let us consider how we may spur one another on towards love & good deeds.” – Hebrews 10:24)

*The above is an excerpt from the teaching I presented the woman at church.

Posted by  |  February 10, 2019 | Categories: * Miscellanous Stuff | Leave a comment

The Around of God

God often takes us around life scenarios and so thankful that He does!  The around of God is frequently dismissed or downplayed.   We learn from our early flannel graph days the miraculous parting of the Red Sea and God taking the Israelites through on dry ground. Miraculous indeed!  However, tucked in two short verses we have the potential of missing a quality of God.  In Exodus 13, we see God take the Israelites around, around a potentially icky outcome.  He had just delivered them from bondage in Egypt – Pharaoh finally releases the people.  Once out and about, the narrative states:  “God did not lead them on the road through the Philistine country, though that was shorter. For God said, “If they face war, they might change their minds and return to Egypt.”  So God led the people around by the desert road toward the Red Sea.” (v 17,18  NIV – emphasis mine)

God took them around so they wouldn’t encounter the Philistines (yet).  They weren’t ready.  This was their first road-trip with God; He didn’t want to freak them out, didn’t want them to bolt and run.   Once deep in the wilderness, what is one of their main complaints, “WHY did you take us out of Egypt…”  When things got tough, they reached for what was familiar, what seemed safe.  It is also said of the Philistines that IF they had encountered the Hebrews at THAT time, they would see them as escaping from their masters and would not hesitate to attack them and make them slaves AGAIN.  We can liken it to suddenly encountering a dangerous animal, we are NOT to take off running; the running stimulates their instinct to chase and conquer.  The Philistines would have chased and conquered.

God took them around.   The principle for us, just like the Israelites, we may never know the around of God.  What He protects us from and what we may not be ready for.  God knows! It is HIS path, HIS when and where.  He leads – He protects.

When we see God pointing in one particular direction, in our freedom, may we not stop and look for the short-cut!  What is ahead on that path, we may not be ready for and there may – just may be another wanting to take us captive.

The around of God.

In Him, DeDe (“Let us consider how we may spur one another on towards love & good deeds.” – Hebrews 10:24)

Posted by  |  February 6, 2019 | Categories: * Miscellanous Stuff | Tags: , | Leave a comment

We’re Celebrating!

We are celebrating 65k (65 THOUSAND) visits to Inspired Fountain!  Folks are reading, folks are hungry for more of God.  The platform we use keeps count of how many and where they are reading from – within the last 90 days, over 50 countries* have visited our site.  Thank you for reading, thank you for trusting us with your time and your investment in your desire to pursue God.

God is incredibly GOOD!

You can find us on Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/inspiredfountain/

In Him, DeDe (“Let us consider how we may spur one another on towards love & good deeds.” – Hebrews 10:24)

 

*Countries Reading: US, United Kingdom, India, Israel, Philippines, South Africa, Canada, Australia, Ghana, European Union, Nigeria, China, Belgium, South Korea, Peru, Vietnam, Burma, Malaysia, Kenya, Jamaica, Denmark, Germany, Japan, New Zealand, Switzerland, Netherlands, Pakistan, Egypt, Ireland, Uganda, France, Bangladesh, Brazil, Trinidad, Singapore, Turkey, Poland, Austria, Italy, Serbia, United Arab Emirates, Thailand, Nepal, Columbia, Saudi Arabia, Taiwan, Spain, Zimbabwe, Greece, Norway, Puerto Rico, Indonesia, Slovakia,  Finland, Hungary, Tanzania, Qatar, Mexico, Solomon Islands, Kuwait, and Honduras.

Posted by  |  January 26, 2019 | Categories: * Miscellanous Stuff | Tags: | Leave a comment