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Our Turn

“The first thing Andrew did was to FIND his brother Simon and TELL him, “We have found the Messiah.” And he BROUGHT him to Jesus.” (John 1:41,42, emphasis mine) What amazing progression. But first, the narrative says, Andrew and John were with John the Baptist. John B points to Jesus saying, “Look the Lamb of God!” (Yes, there is an exclamation mark in the text!) The two guys turn and follow Jesus. They spend time with Him, THEN… found, told and brought.

Remember when someone pointed YOU to Jesus? You follow, spend time with Him…

Your turn, our turn: “Look the Lamb of God!” Find, tell-bring.

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

Posted by Inspired Fountain | September 29, 2016 | Categories: * Miscellanous Stuff | Tags: John 1 verses 41 42 | Leave a comment

Empty Handed

“I will praise You as long as I live and in Your name I will lift up my hands.” David, Psalm 63:4 Hands, literally means the ‘palm,’ emphasizing the EMPTY hand. “Be still and know I am God.” Ps 46:10 ‘Be still’ in the Hebrew conveys the imagery of ‘let it drop,’ cease striving with fisted hands. The hand that was once tight fisted, holding on to ‘stuff’ – we let it go! Giving God room to move, to fill and to use.

What’s in our hands? It could be a literal holding of something we need to give up to honor our love walk with Jesus, or metaphorically speaking those things we hold tight, whether a mindset, attitude or heart condition. What do we need to let go?

The empty palmed hand raised heavenward in prayer, symbolizing our longing to receive. Our empty hands clapping together in joy and applause, we praise.

Empty handed we come Lord.

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

Posted by Inspired Fountain | September 22, 2016 | Categories: * Miscellanous Stuff | Tags: Empty handed for God | 2 Comments

Just Breathe!

Walking into church, a bit tattered from the week that led to this day, I take my seat (5 rows back, first seat in) Placing my bible next to me, the first thing that captures my attention is the quiet melody coming over the sound system, it is familiar and soothing, “As the deer panteth…” It was then, I felt the Lord impress on me, “Just breathe!” As the worship began, we all stood, I closed my eyes and did just that: Took a deep breath. Overwhelmed with His presence, I was reminded of … the breath of God.

How often do we find ourselves in survival mode? Barely making it, you feel your existence evaporating with each step forward. As the day goes on you find yourself unsuccessfully reaching and grabbing for anything solid. Thinking if I can just make it through this day… through this season… to the next paycheck… see that person… BE that person … get this done, that done … clean this … lose this, gain that. BREATHE! Just breathe.

In pondering this, (it may sound totally silly) I began looking our breath and the ramifications of the lack of oxygen that takes place physically, how it affects us and how long it takes for a body to die. Not to be morbid or anything, but I feel it has quite a few similarities to our spiritual man.

In all the medical hymhaw, I found this quote: “A lack of oxygen to the heart muscle can cause heart attacks, and even if the individual survives the anoxic event (complete depletion of oxygen), there may be damage to the heart that proves deadly.” This doesn’t even speak of the damage to the brain. There are also ‘quiet’ symptoms that are attributed to a lack of oxygen as well: Depression, irritability and irrational behavior. Sound like your week? Just breathe!

Like that of our physical body, so it is with our spiritual man. We NEED to breathe. Without a constant intake of God, the ramifications can to prove damaging if not deadly. I believe we all have people in our lives that once were thriving active God-loving folks, but somehow, somewhere along their spiritual timeline, they stopped. They stopped reading God’s word, fellowshipping with other believers, stopped believing God and stopped breathing God. Now where are they?

Genesis 2:7 “And the LORD God formed man of the dust of the ground and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life and man became a living soul.” Our bodies were made of the dust – earth – biological. The soul was not made of the earth. So… earthly things cannot quench the hunger of the soul, (regardless of how much kale we eat!) nor can the soul continue to survive. It is only the breath of God that feeds and nurtures the spiritual man! Read that again. “It is ONLY the breath of God that feeds and nurtures the spiritual man!” It is divinely birthed and divinely maintained.

How often do we seek things, people, position even ‘events’ to satisfy our deep longing, and cravings. Without God’s breath and presence in our life, we are an empty dusty vessel. God initiated this for mankind, now we by invitation in turn seek that breath. Just breathe!

Paul spoke to this in 2 Timothy, “Every part of Scripture is God-breathed and useful one way or another—showing us truth, exposing our rebellion, correcting our mistakes, training us to live God’s way. Through the Word we are put together and shaped up for the tasks God has for us.” (3:15-17 – The Message) And the one who penned Hebrews wrote, “For the word of God is alive and powerful. (sound like breath?) It is sharper than the sharpest two-edged sword, cutting between soul and spirit, between joint and marrow. It exposes our innermost thoughts and desires. Nothing in all creation is hidden from God.” (4:12, emphasis mine)

If we are to survive, let alone THRIVE spiritually we need God’s presence and His word to do so. Have we found we can’t seem to catch our spiritual breath? Are we low in emotion, irritable and even find our self being irrational or treating others unkindly? Are we apathetic about spiritual things? Or how about walking to the ‘frig of life’ looking for something to satisfy us. When was the last time we quietly spent time with our God? Prayed, invited His presence, and opened His word, pursued Him, His qualities? Just breathe.

In the garden just before Jesus’ betrayal, with the disciples, He instructs them to sit and wait. Taking Peter, James and John He goes further, leaving them also behind. He goes on alone further still. He falls to the ground face down and prays, “FATHER...” May we too go further still…fall before our God in complete honesty and surrender. (Matt. 26:36-46)

Just breathe.

May I offer, click on this link: (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pJfzzFeA5OQ) Close your eyes, take a deep breath… allow this to sing over you, BE your prayer.

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

Posted by Inspired Fountain | September 5, 2016 | Categories: * Miscellanous Stuff | Tags: breath of God, God's word is breath | Leave a comment

New Study Coming

Ladies, as the bright yellow school buses again travel our early morning roads, it is our tendency to begin to settle into routine. Life gets busy and full. May we take a brief moment to mark our calendars for time set aside for the Word, study, fellowship and yes, potentially CHOCOLATE! (HAVE to add that)

We are launching a new season of bible study Tuesday nights (7pm) beginning September 20th, ‘Women of the Word’, meeting at East River Fellowship, here in Hillsboro Oregon. (East River Fellowship) We will be taking a deeper look at the qualities of God. Often we see these qualities, dust them off and place them on a shelf to admire, but do we truly walk in them. Love, humility, integrity, joy and yes PATIENCE (OH NO!) Join us as Louisa and I tag team teach as we pursue and inspire deeper lives for Jesus.

For more information, feel free to contact me at dede4him@gmail.com

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

Posted by Inspired Fountain | September 3, 2016 | Categories: * Miscellanous Stuff | Tags: new bible study, qualities of God | Leave a comment

Entrusted

Oh ladies as part of the ‘Entrusted Launch Team’, I’m so excited! The new Beth Moore study ‘Entrusted’ (2 Timothy) is soon to be (officially) released Sept 1st. I have watched the first session and LOVE IT! Take a brief look here Brief look at Beth’s teaching (click on link) to get a taste of what is ahead. You can even watch each video session individually (available now for $4.99ea download to your computer) Individual video session info . At the same location you can purchase the workbook to go along with the study. Her workbooks are rich with insight as well as having YOU dig in and take a look at the verses. This is only a 6 week study, but will indeed make an impact!

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

Posted by Inspired Fountain | August 31, 2016 | Categories: * Miscellanous Stuff | Leave a comment

Understanding More Clearly the Words in Red

Recently I was asked, “Why?” Why do I study Hebrew culture, language, customs and tradition and even the writings of ancient Rabbi’s, (this alongside in-depth study of the Old and New Testaments.) As I first began this pursuit I found it amazing how Jesus’ words come alive, His parables, His teaching, even His stern rebukes (Oh those Pharisees!) Jesus was Hebrew, spoke Hebrew, He was raised in the traditions and customs of Hebrew culture.

According to scholars on the topic, probably by the time Jesus was five years old He had begun learning to read and memorize the scriptures, after age ten He began to learn the Oral Torah (Rabbinic interpreting of the Written Torah, Torah is Hebrew for ‘teaching’ or instruction, primarily the first 5 books of the OT) Remember the story in Luke chapter 2, Mary & Joseph had gone to Jerusalem for the Passover, Jesus a young boy of twelve became separated from His parents, later they found Jesus in the Temple sitting among the teachers, listening and asking questions. They were amazed not at His age, but the depth of His wisdom. By age thirteen, by custom He would have concluded His formal study (from man) and began to learn a trade… a carpenter (Matt 13:55, Mk 6:3)

Customs and traditions: A fascinating one is found quietly tucked in Jesus telling the Pharisees ‘Give to Caesar what is Caesar’s and to God what is God’s.” (Mk 12:17, Matt 22:21. Lk 20:25) The story is told of a few Pharisees, (Members of an ancient Jewish sect, priests known for strictly observing traditional and written law. Sadly, they considered themselves much holier than the common people) Doubting Jesus’ claim of Godly Sonship, they had a plan to trap Him into saying things that would either discredit Him or cause an uproar within the community.

They asked, “Teacher, we know You are a man of integrity… Is it right to pay taxes to Caesar or not, should we pay or shouldn’t we?” Jesus knowing their motive calls them HYPOCRITES! He then asks, if someone had a ‘denarius coin.’ One of them, possibly one of the temple priests, steps forward, hands Him the coin.

We should pay our taxes and give to the church is what we interpret from this story, and rightly so, but looking through the eyes of Hebrew culture this story takes on a whole new excitement. When Jesus calls the Jewish traditional leaders ‘Hypocrites’ – they are exactly that (Hypocrisy is pretending to be something you are not and have no intention of being, and paying more attention to reputation and appearances than to character.) You see, denarius (Roman coins) was strictly forbidden in the Temple, because it bore Caesars blasphemous claim to be divine, yet here one of the priests HAD a coin in his pocket. According to Jewish law the making of ‘images’ was forbidden, “You saw no form of any kind the day the LORD spoke to you at Horeb out of the fire. Therefore watch yourselves very carefully, so that you do not become corrupt and make for yourselves an idol, an image of any shape, whether formed like a man or a woman…” Deut 4:15-16

The coin now shining in the palm of Jesus’ hand, He asks the question, “Whose portrait is this…” I think at this moment, we may have been able to hear the slight snickers of the disciples, “DUDE, Busted!” Tradition states that temple priests would refuse the current money demanding the people priorly exchange it for the ‘half-shekel’ which was free from all pagan images, and they would not be defiled. Not in this case. Hm, a defiled hypocritical priest in possession of a forbidden coin attempting to entrap the Master! Yet, Jesus (Go God!)

Jesus followed many Jewish customs, in Luke 4, we find Him in the Synagogue, standing and reading from a portion of Isaiah (61:1,2) as was the custom of the day, Rabbis would read, then give commentary: “The Spirit of the Lord is on me, because he has anointed me to preach good news to the poor. He has sent me to proclaim freedom for the prisoners and recovery of sight for the blind, to release the oppressed.” Rolling the scroll back up and handing it to the attendant and sat down, then adds, “By the way, that’s Me.” (paraphrase of course)

There are times we read on through and over passages that speak directly to tradition and not really understand them. One great example is in Mark 7 (also Matt 15) Jesus says: “But you say that if a man says to his father or mother: ‘Whatever help you might otherwise have received from me is Corban’ (that is, a gift devoted to God), Thus you nullify the word of God by your tradition that you have handed down. And you do many things like that.” Really now, WHAT is ‘Corban!’

First setting the context, again the Pharisees (troublesome folk) saw the disciples eating without first ‘performing the hand-washing ceremony’ (defined by Jewish tradition) approached Jesus and asked why they didn’t follow the traditions of their ancestors, Jesus responds, “You have a fine way of setting aside the commands of God in order to observe your own traditions!” Then proceeds to give ‘Corban’ as an example: The Jewish tradition allowing money originally dedicated to the care of parents could be declared Corban, ‘Dedicated to God’, the money would then be released to the Temple (if so desired, it was a move of prestige appearance) In doing so the person exempts himself from any inconvenient obligation to take care of their parents, disregarding and rejecting the Law of Moses. “Honor your father and mother, as the LORD your God commanded you.” (Ex. 20:12, Deut. 5:16)

“Jesus wasn’t against all tradition, but He was against those who made their traditions as important, if not MORE important than God’s Word. Good traditions shine a spotlight on God’s Word, move us to obedient service (with understanding) They explain and reinforce the teachings of God. God’s Word should ALWAYS be the focus, and tradition a means of bringing that Word alive.” – Life Application Study Bible, study notes. (Emphasis mine)

Knowing the culture, traditions, and beliefs help paint the picture that Jesus was born in, raised and lived and taught about, understanding more clearly the words in red.

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

I encourage you to explore more for yourself. There are some great books explaining the customs and traditions of Jewish living. “Walking in the Dust of Rabbi Jesus’ and ‘Sitting at the Feet of Rabbi Jesus’ by Lois Tverberg, ‘God in Search of Man’ by Abraham Heschel (are my favorite) Also there are numerous books on the ‘Manners & Customs’ of the Bible. Google & Amazon are your friend (with discernment)

Posted by Inspired Fountain | August 29, 2016 | Categories: * Miscellanous Stuff | Leave a comment

Guarding the God in Me

The year was 1984, a young woman of 20 in her 2nd year of bible college, kneels while the men of God lay their hands gently on her head. Through prayer they speak words of promise, hope and declarations of spiritual potential in her life. With anointing, they install a teaching mantle* along with… a warning. “You will protect yourself…”

That 20-year-old is now 53, that was me 32 years ago, (Gasp!) A lot has transpired in the last 32 years. Hours and hours of study and not to mention (in detail) the stupid mistakes, which held hands with frequent lapses of judgment. I see the ever-increasing need to protect. What am I protecting? I am guarding the God in me. Guarding what He entrusted to me, and in me. Most importantly, my relationship with my God.

“You will protect yourself,” a note to us all.

Danger, in the spiritual realm, does not generally stand up and yell, while waving its arms, “Over here, yep, HERE! I am coming to get you!’ It is subtle, watching for an opportunity to ensnare. “Stay alert! Watch out for your great enemy, the devil. He prowls around like a roaring lion, looking for someone to devour. Stand firm against him, and be strong in your faith.” 1 Pet. 5:8-9 Paul strongly urges, “Put on the full armor of God so that you can take your stand against the devil’s schemes.” Eph 6:11

Proverbs 22:3 “A prudent man foresees evil and hides himself, but the simple pass on and are punished.” “The prudent foresees…” this conveys the idea of watchman or guard, one who is prepared. In 2 Kings 11, it speaks of the guard, those who set themselves in a position to see the enemy approaching. Gathering in tight formation; “Keep your weapons in hand, be armed and stay armed.”

Interesting, in the original Hebrew, hide is repeated, emphasizing the action, the “prudent… hides hides himself.” Using the context, a prudent man sees the evil and ‘in hiding, he will hide.’ Meaning it is active and progressive. You do, so you stay … doing. We keep on hiding. We are proactive in our stance to guard ourselves against evil. Way to go prudent guys and gals!

Taking precautions for many of us is defined differently due to the ever large number of entangling stuff, “Let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles…” Heb. 12:1 What hinders and causes me to be all entangled up with the wrong stuff may be different for you. We need to become aware of the things that entangle, snare and entice us.　It is a good thing to identify the snake charmer from a distance then run and hide. Where do we hide? “The name of the LORD is a strong tower; the righteous run to it and are safe.” Pro 18:10 Our hiding ourselves is not a game of ‘peek-a-boo,’ thinking we are hid by merely covering our eyes and peeking out through our fingers. I’ve tried that, doesn’t work, we can still be enticed. It is a case of running AWAY (run FAST!) and hiding in God’s presence. “He who dwells in the secret place of the Most High, shall abide in the shadow of the Almighty.” Ps 91:1 Protection. We do this by staying in His word, staying in fellowship with strong believers, staying under good biblical teaching. (You do, so you stay … doing)

Protecting and hiding. Liken to a football game. Those who carry the prized possession … the ball, hold that puppy tucked up tight against them as humanly possible. While the other arm is strongly flexed, ready to push away with force. Why?　 Because the opposing team wants the ball, they will do whatever it takes to get it, including (and not limited to) grabbing violently, pushing, pulling, shoving, knocking down, and hurting to steal it.　 So it is with us, what is the most prized possession we have?　Our relationship with the Lord Jesus Christ!　 And you can count on the opposing team to do whatever it takes to cause us to fumble, hurt us, and steal from us!　 I am not talking about losing our salvation, or hording the God things, and not giving it out.　 There is an enemy out there who wants to destroy us. He (little ‘h’) is constantly reaching in (Foul!) and trying to grab our joy, our contentment in Christ, our peace, our strength, even our confidence. Before we know it, we stutter step, get our feet all tangled up and … fall.

The word picture offered “A prudent man foresees evil and hides himself, but the simple pass on …” the simple, or naïve, is one who opens their arms wide willingly accepting what comes their way, and walks into the embrace. They don’t hold their convictions, their love of God in tight around them. He/she is naïve, lacking insight, wisdom, making them easily distracted, and easily seduced.　 As if a tourist in a foreign country, walking through the dangerous part of town, with backpack freely slung over their shoulder, all pockets are unzipped, passport dangling out with all their traveling money visible for the taking. They are unwise, over-confident and almost inviting trouble.

“Keep and guard your heart with all vigilance and above all that you guard, for out of it flow the springs of life.” Pro 4:23 one resource explains it: ‘Guard the affections of your heart; the emotional attachments you make determine the course of your life.’ Those things, and people I attach myself to determine which way I go. May I just say “OUCH!” Oswald Chambers strongly adds: “Never become attached to anything that continues to hurt God. For you to be free of it, God must be allowed to hurt whatever it may be.” What is the prevention from the hurt? We ‘guard against’ it in the first place.

Precautions, positioning, boundaries and accountability, these are our defense (along with the armor of God, standing strong with the sword and behind the shield of faith) We know our weaknesses; with the help of the Holy Spirit we set guidelines in place, we mark a perimeter against the evil stuff and hide and hide in Him. The God-loving, God-living life is one of consecration, set apart for Him, we take careful notice of what we read, see and listen to. Doing whatever it takes to guard the God in us, the most prized possession we have.

Are we the wise prudent guard or the simple naive, wandering aimlessly into the mess? (Just hand them the football already!)

You will protect yourself.

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

*In Bible days, a Mantle (as mentioned above in the first paragraph) was an outer cloak used for additional covering and warmth, especially at night, like that of a blanket. From the idea of something that “covers” in the natural, a mantle represents spiritual covering as well. It usually refers to spiritual authority and anointing, we can see this in the story of Elijah & Elisha found in 2 Kings 2.

A spiritual mantle can be wrapped as a scriptural metaphor (symbol) holding elements of: calling, gift, passion, ability, anointing, skill set, or level of authority that God has given a specific person. God determines the mantle – we do not select it; it is established, destined and imparted by God. It is more than gifting, it is an anointing, to serve God in the capacity of spiritual DNA, destiny and calling of God. It always has a cost. It always demands great responsibility.

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Posted by Inspired Fountain | August 15, 2016 | Categories: * Miscellanous Stuff | Tags: guarding God, Protecting ourselves for God | Leave a comment

An Unredacted Copy

REDACTED: ‘To revise by editing or censoring, to select or adapt by obscuring or removing sensitive information.’ We do this don’t we? We do it in our life with scripture. We take ‘a lil here and a lil there’ and seem to remove the stuff (the sensitive information) we don’t agree with or think too hard to walk out. Or out of our laziness, we don’t even attempt to try or do it all on our own. We live our lives as if we redacted the Word, or try to add what is not there. I know I have, I had a ‘marked up, redacted copy’ and attempted to live according to that and have positive, God-blessed results. Didn’t happen!

Interesting, there is a marker (brand name, ‘Secure Marker’) you can purchase designed just for this. Black ink used to block out and obscure information. The advertising capturing with exciting motive: “Perfect for hiding personal information…” May we not (metaphorically) pick one up, just in case we come across some ‘personal information’ we feel needs some blocking out. God’s word to us IS personal! Funny how we think if it is blotted out, it is not there. Taking away from the bible, so WE feel good about its instruction.

God’s word says: “The entirety of Your word is truth…” Ps 119:160 “Every word of God proves true. He is a shield to all who come to Him for protection. Do not add to His words, or He may rebuke you and expose you as a liar.” Pr 30:5-6 Jesus said, “Blessed rather are those who hear the word of God and obey it.” (Lk 11:28) He didn’t suggest it or offer alternatives, as if saying: “Well, if it seems a lil tough, I understand, just make what works for you, happen.” Jesus did say: “Walk with Me and work with Me—watch how I do it. Learn the unforced rhythms of grace. I won’t lay anything heavy or ill-fitting on you.” Matt.11:29 (MSG) His word is true. Leave it as is. Live it as is. Living it with the help of the Holy Spirit according to a unredacted copy of the sensitive information, personal information we are called to.

Unredacted.

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

Posted by Inspired Fountain | August 8, 2016 | Categories: * Miscellanous Stuff | Tags: unredacted word | Leave a comment

Compassion, Sharing a Chapel Experience

A few years ago I was asked to speak at the Pastors chapel at a local Christian school. I was given the assignment of sharing on… Compassion. What an honor. What a challenge. I needed to share it in such a way that five years olds would grasp it, sixth graders wouldn’t be bored by it and the adult staff stay awake through it.

Standing in front of the group, I began sharing the story of the good Samaritan. I read from Luke chapter 10. I only got into a couple of verses when a woman sitting in the front row began to fidget. As I read, her behavior became quite disruptive. Her demeanor was that of agitation. Continuously tugging at the collar on her jacket, looking down and bouncing her leg as if anxious for something. Attempting to disregard the distraction, I continued to explain the story of the compassionate Samaritan man. He was going about his business when he came across someone in need. He had the choice to continue on or stop. Stop and engage himself in the disruption to his journey.

Soon all youthful eyes, and adult curiosity was now drawn to the woman in the front row. I knew I had lost the audience. Pausing, I inquired of the woman, stepping forward slightly, whispering (loud enough for all to hear) “Ma’am, is there something I can help you with?” She shrugged, as if to brush off my attempt. I asked if she was too hot, she nodded in agreement. Sheepishly, she allowed me to help her with her jacket. Not knowing what to do with the jacket and in hopes of keeping the flow of the sermon, I simply put the jacket on. “Having compassion is taking the time to help others…” I said to the group , in reference to the Samaritan. As I spoke, by habit I put my hand in the pocket of the ladies jacket, I instantly felt something. Showing surprise, I pulled out a large white piece of paper. Five year olds and sixth graders all leaning forward in great attention. Even the junior high kids trying to disguise it, were now interested. Unfolding it, facing out to the kids, in large black letters it read, ‘PAIN.’ All eyes now wide. I stuck my hand in the other pocket, pulling out another large piece of paper, this one read, “SAD!”

We are told throughout the New Testament we are to ‘Put on.’ Put on the armor of light, put on Christ, put on the new man, put on the full armor of God, put on love. Paul told the folks in Colossee, “Therefore, God’s chosen ones, holy and loved, put on heartfelt compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience.” (3:12, emphasis mine) All are God qualities! We put on God stuff.

Compassion in the Greek is a compound word, meaning ‘good affection’ or tender-hearted. It is strongly associated with sympathetic ACTION. We not only acknowledge the need, we ACT on that knowledge.

Jesus is our greatest example of this: “When Jesus landed and saw a large crowd, He had compassion on them, and healed their sick.” (Matt. 14:14) Jesus saw a woman mourning the death of her son, “He had compassion on her…” And restored life to the boy. (Lk 7:13) Jesus, the disciples, and a large crowd, Jesus healed the sick and gave sight to the blind. He called His disciples and said, “I have compassion on the multitude..” and He feed them. (Matt. 15:32-39)

Ephesians 4:32 “Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other just as in Christ God forgave us.” Compassionate: In the original language, the word picture here is amazing. It is as though, we take on the feelings of another, giving us greater understanding of their plight, and help them. Like the gal in the front row, taking off her jacket, and giving it to me. I now ‘wear’ her coat of experience and suffering.

Yes, I had planted the woman in the front row. I wanted the kids to see that compassion, ACTIVE compassion can come by way of a disturbance or distraction. Like the fellow in the Samaritan story, it cost him time, attention and money. The man’s ailment he was showing compassion to was very evident, unlike some, not so noticeable. We may never know why someone acts the way they do, or what they may be feeling. Pain comes in many forms and sadness expressed in many ways. It wasnt until I took the time to address the gal in the front row, and ‘put on’ her jacket (and found the notes) that I understood her better. She was in pain and very sad. I am sympathetic, my judgement is tempered, I now share and understand her pain and sadness … compassionate.

At the end of the chapel service, I hugged the front row gal, she stood, while I introduced her to the group. I don’t think the kids will forget this chapel service with the disruptive gal and the jacket notes. They understood, WHY she acted that way. Pain and Sad. Compassion. To experience together.

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

Posted by Inspired Fountain | August 4, 2016 | Categories: * Miscellanous Stuff | Tags: Compassion, understanding compassion | Leave a comment

Proverbs 31, A Moms Instruction

“A wife of noble character who can find? She is worth far more than rubies… she gets up while it is still dark … considers a field and buys it… plants a vineyard… sets about her work vigorously… provides food for her family… opens her arms to the poor… makes coverings for her bed…makes linen garments… watches over the affairs of her household… speaks with wisdom and faithful understanding is on her tongue… her children rise and call her blessed, her husband praises her…” Proverbs 31 also known as WONDER WOMAN! I am lucky if I get the bed made, make sure there is milk in the frig, and the household doesn’t run out of toilet paper. When my son does rise around noon, it normally isn’t ‘Blessed’ being yelled, but “M-O-M!” By the end of the day if the smoke detector has not sounded the alarm due to my cooking, to me THAT is a victorious, virtuous woman. I stand tall, hands on hips, and chin lifted high. Give me a cape!

Often when we read Proverbs 31, we normally hear King Solomon’s voice rattle off the poetic lines, as we roll our eyes “OH BRUTHER!” The words express the ‘PERFECT’ woman. We think “Of course, a MAN wrote this!” However, this instruction is coming from the authors MOTHER! “The words of Lemuel, King of Massa, which his mother taught him:” (Pro. 31:1, emphasis mine) The next 30 verses are instruction coming from his mom. Instruction to a man from a woman. Strong words of wisdom in action. I became aware of this the other day as I was reading the proverb, wait just a hog-tied moment, back up… who wrote this?

All of Proverbs is known to be of King Solomon “These also are proverbs of Solomon which the men of Hezekiah, king of Judah, transcribed.” Pro. 25:1, except the last two chapters. Chapter 30 is attributed to ‘Agur, son of Jakeh.’ While the well-known chapter 31, as mentioned above, ‘Lemuel, King of Massa.’ There are many speculations of who this ‘Lemuel’ is, there is no other mention of him in all of scripture. Many scholars believe he is just that, some King from Massa. While other scholars believe he is indeed Solomon. Ancient Jewish tradition identifies Lemuel as King Solomon. Some claim that Lemuel is a pet name given to him by his mother at a young age, he uses this name while in reference to what his mother told him. Some also believe there is a ‘break’ within the chapter, verse 1-9 are segmented out, not flowing to the following verses 10-31. While others believe this to be one continuous writing, flowing from verse to verse. I leave this to you to research and decide on your own. However…

Let’s take a look as if it really was Solomon that wrote Proverbs 31, being reminded, there is no strong doctrinal standing that it is. Who was Solomons mother? Bathsheba. Our first thought is not of Bathsheba being the wise mother full of virtuous advice, it is of the first sighting of her by King David from the roof top. From there we know the story of lust, deceit and murder, (we can read their story in 2 Sam. 11-12) To gain a true understanding of what followed, we read David’s heart in Psalm 51. The title above this Psalm reads: “A psalm of David. When the prophet Nathan came to him after David committed adultery with Bathsheba.” Verse one, “Have mercy on me, O God, according to Your unfailing love..” The key verse, “Against You, You only, have I sinned and done what is evil in Your sight.” (v4) Can you hear his heart? Although Bathshebas’ repentance is not recorded, some believe she too repented and was forgiven, because when she conceived Solomon, Nathan the prophet said they should name him Jedediah, which means ‘blessed of God.” Evidence of repentance? I’d say so.

Interesting side note, there isn’t a lot said about Solomons upbringing, but we see later, when Solomon was King, Bathsheba had Solomons’ ear. 1 Kings 2:13-20, Adonijah, Solomons half-brother came to Bathsheba and asked, “Please ask King Solomon–he will not refuse you–to give me Abishag the Shunammite as my wife.” (v17) Bathsheba agreed. “When Bathsheba went to King Solomon to speak to him for Adonijah, the king stood up to meet her, bowed down to her and sat down on his throne. He had a throne brought for the king’s mother, and she sat down at his right hand. “I have one small request to make of you,” she said. “Do not refuse me.” The king replied, “Make it, my mother; I will not refuse you.” (v19,20) Not exactly a mammas boy, but there was a strong respect.

At one point God asked of Solomon “Ask for whatever you want Me to give you.” (2 Chro 1 & 1 Kings 3) Solomon responded that he wanted wisdom and a hearing heart to lead the people, God granted that. As the saying goes, “Behind every great man is a great woman.” It seems apparent from this proverb, perhaps Bathsheba too had a great influence. The opening line to this proverb I find paints a strong picture. The word the author uses for ‘taught’ has a much broader sense then just to teach, or share instruction, as a professor points with a yard stick to the words on the blackboard. It reaches further to chastening. Meaning to make someone aware of their failure. The instruction is motivated to purify or refine. To cause someone to be more humble for moral improvement. Sound like a mother?

Bringing forward a current thought, James Dobson states, “The two greatest needs of a child is love and limits.” Limits come in many forms, perhaps Bathsheba knew this. When we read through the beautiful words of Proverbs 31, let us read them with new insight, (regardless of the author) the words are of a mother’s heart. “O my son, son of my womb… do not spend your strength on women, your vigor on those who ruin kings. It is not for Kings, O Lemuel, not for kings to drink wine, not for rulers to crave beer, lest they drink and forget what the law decrees… Speak for those who cannot speak for themselves… speak up and judge fairly, defend the rights of the poor and needy… a wife of noble character who can find… a woman who fears the Lord is to be praised, give her the reward she has earned…” Wonder Woman? No, just the qualities a mother wants for her son. In the traditional Jewish culture, it’s not the women who memorize Proverbs 31, but the men. “A wife of noble character who can find?” (v 10) Shedding new light; a mom to a son.

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

Posted by Inspired Fountain | August 2, 2016 | Categories: * Miscellanous Stuff | Tags: New insight on Proverbs 31 | Leave a comment

New Beth Moore study: ‘Entrusted’

Ladies, I am part of the ‘Entrusted’ Launch Team, and wanting to get the word out. Beth’s new bible study comes out on September 1st. ‘Entrusted.’ A study of 2 Timothy, this is the last letter we have from Paul and he is leaving his beloved son in the faith, Timothy, his last written words. This study will encourage you to use the gifts and the calling God has entrusted to you to be a mighty servant in the faith! Beth’s studies are rich in history, culture, and language of the day. Being a gifted teacher, she literally ‘takes you there’ while pulling principles to help guide you along in your journey with Jesus.

Take a look at [LifeWay.com/Entrusted]. It’s gunna be a GOOD one!

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

Posted by Inspired Fountain | August 2, 2016 | Categories: * Miscellanous Stuff | Tags: Entrusted, New Beth Moore Study | Leave a comment

Dancing

Ever felt a roughness in your spirit? How about your emotions wound so tight you fear you may snap like a rubber band. Or your mind packed with tangled thoughts and it would take a convention full OCD participants to align them all for you. A few years ago, I was in such a place. Knowing I needed to do something; I went to visit two dear friends on their 113 acre cattle farm in Western Washington. Getting out of the city and to the quiet of the country is exactly what I needed. Sitting in the backyard, the clouds caught my attention, white and fluffy, moving ever so slowly. What rhythm I thought, they were peaceful, going in the direction they were created to, beautifully orchestrated.

Later I drove to a nearby small town; I walked down to the docks where the sea water comes into the bay. Contemplating, I sat and watched the seagulls this time. In the distance I saw a kayak approaching with two people in it. There it was again … rhythm; they lifted and set down, lifted and set down the oars with such grace. This is when it dawned on me, what it was I had been sensing that last couple of weeks. Rhythm. My rhythm with the Lord (if you will) had somehow gotten disrupted, whether by lack of focus or disobedience. This affected my perspectives, attitudes and responses and yes, my emotions.

The Lord gave me a picture of dancing. Slow – graceful, elegant unity, like that of ball room dancing. Yet to have the smooth rhythm and glide across the floor, there can only be One who leads. This is what the Father wants from me, that my walk with Him be a graceful dance, He as the leader. He places pressure on my back so gently, I know to move forward, or to the left or the right. Remember when Israel stepped away from God, AGAIN, Isaiah spoke on God’s behalf, “O people of Zion, who live in Jerusalem, you will weep no more. He will be gracious if you ask for help. He will surely respond to the sound of your cries.” Isaiah 30:19 He continues with “Your own ears will hear Him. Right behind you a voice will say, “This is the way you should go,” whether to the right or to the left.” (v21)

Up until this moment I had only been able to squeak out an “O God!” Now I knew what I had to do. Early the next morning I took my headset of worship music and Bible and headed down to the pasture. I was going to seek out my dance Partner. The grazing land follows the river down and around a bend. To get to my favorite spot, I had to walk through the tall wet grass and um … cow… ‘stuff.’ As I stepped over and around these spots, I thought, if we want to meet with the Lord bad enough, sometimes we have to go through the stuff to get there.

Still learning the skill of the dance, I began to pray, I felt much more pressure on my back than usual. But that is what practice is for. I was practicing the presence of the Lord. There was a lot of crying on my part, crying out for God to take over.

I was regaining my rhythm, but to do so I had to stop, confess and acknowledge that I had been trying to lead. Putting my hand in His, He again took the Leaders stance. Jesus spoke to this, “Come to Me, all of you who are weary and carry heavy burdens, and I will give you rest. Walk with Me and work with Me—watch how I do it. Learn the unforced rhythms of grace. I won’t lay anything heavy or ill-fitting on you. Keep company with Me and you’ll learn to live freely and lightly.” (Matt. 11:28-30 MSG, emphasis mine)

Nearly two hours later I was back up at the house completely worn out, but a good tired! I was soaked from the wet tall grass. But I wouldn’t have missed my dance lesson for anything! I do not want to “sit this one out” with the Lord, or make excuses to miss a lesson, though there have been (and will be) times I am tempted to do so.

Does reading this help identify what you may be experiencing, have you lost YOUR rhythm?　 When was the last time you went to dance class? Make time to get away, just you and your dancing Partner, and focus on Him. Do as He says, grab your Bible, perhaps walk through some muck, allow Him to put His arms around you and lead you gracefully. It will take a lifetime to learn the skill of the dance, but to sense and obey His word and touch can be beautiful as we follow along in the music of life.

Dancing.

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

Posted by Inspired Fountain | July 17, 2016 | Categories: * Miscellanous Stuff | Tags: Dancing with God, learning to obey. | Leave a comment

Offended?

We hear it in the news, bold letters across social media and perhaps on a more intimate front, conversations amongst friends and family. One word sums it up, OFFENDED. It seems these days there is an offense for everything and everyone. Offended , defined as ‘resentful or annoyed, typically as a result of a perceived insult.’ Most of the time we tend to quiet ourselves or withhold as to not offend, and politely… rightly so. Yet, while doing this, we hold back about our faith, our God, “I-I-I don’t know, talking about God might offend them…” So?

I find it somewhat humorous; there are those who are shocked that the Gospel of Jesus IS offensive. Of course it is! They want to extend only the softer side of God; love, joy, peace, hugs, and smiles. However, they fail to mention the reality of the gospel; the sin factor and the answer. Regardless of how tender and loving the message of redemption is presented, it will offend. When a heart is convicted by the ‘living and active…’ word of God and their need for the Savior, with the Holy Spirit wooing them, all they see is a reflection of what they are not. Offended? Yes.

The offense does not come from the messenger, (if presented in love) it is the message itself. “The message of the cross is foolish to those who are headed for destruction! But we who are being saved know it is the very power of God.” (Paul, 1 Cor. 1:18) Pastor Erik Raymond of Nebraska wrote: “There are sharp edges to this gospel. There is blood, death, wrath, sin, greed, and anger. You can’t sand that down without losing it all. Paul continued to preach Christ because he knew that this same (foolish) gospel was also the saving gospel.”

Jesus said, “I did not come to call the righteous but sinners to repentance.” (Lk. 5:32) The gospel wouldn’t be so tough if it wasn’t so stinkin picky about sin. “For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.” (Rom. 6:23). The message of the gospel is confrontational.

May we echo Paul’s word, “I am not ashamed of the gospel, because it is the power of God for the salvation of everyone who believes.” (Ro. 1:16) When it comes to the bible and my God, I will not tenderize the meat of the message, white wash to gain a sparkling appearance, no matter how much I love bling! Nor will I water it down for easier swallowing. The message is and will be, Jesus. The One sent from Father God to redeem us back.

Jesus told His disciples He was the true bread of life, that partaking of Him, they will live forever. This in contrast to the manna provided in the wilderness, it was temporal and sustained their physical bodies only. What He was providing was spiritual. It says that for some this was too much, “This is a hard teaching. Who can accept it?” they said. Jesus asks, “Does this offend you…” Many of these men turned back and no longer followed Him. (John 6)

Is Jesus offensive? Yes. In the most loving way, may we not water-down, white wash or temper the message. Those ‘annoyed’ NEED to hear and see it! The sharp edges of the gospel are meant to prick!

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

Posted by Inspired Fountain | July 14, 2016 | Categories: * Miscellanous Stuff | Leave a comment

Distracted?

Sitting down, my coffee mug in hand, opening my bible, “WAIT!” Jumping up, “I forgot to put the clothes in the dryer.” Coming back later, determined to finish this time. The phone rings. “Chit-chat, chit-chat.” Minutes later, “Bye.” Ok, NOW! Reach for the bible again. Hearing the clock chime, “Oh my, I have to run.” Book closed. Distracted.

Jesus is in the home of the sisters, Mary & Martha. Mary is found sitting at Jesus’ feet. Martha, being the Martha Stewart of the day and using ingredients she can ONLY find three villages away, (kidding) was in the kitchen working. Luke (chapter 10) describes Martha as being distracted by all the stuff, the preparations.

Interesting the way Luke describes the scene, distracted. The word he chose (‘perispao‘) is the only place this word appears in the N.T. It isn’t a soft glance quickly the other way, it is a full on ‘over-occupied’ in a different direction. It denotes the misplacement of cares and responsiblity. Grammatically it is used in the ‘Passive Voice,’ meaning: The action is emphasized rather than the subject of the sentence. Martha was DISTRACTED!

Mary, still sitting and listening to Jesus. Martha begins to complain, she urges Jesus to encourage Mary to help her.

I love Jesus’ response, “Martha, Martha…” It doesn’t say it in the narrative, but you can almost see the slight swaying of Jesus’ head as He repeats her name as to emphasize a deep sigh. He continues by stating she worries and gets upset about many things. However, her sister has chosen wisely, “There is only one thing worth being concerned about. Mary has discovered it…” (v 42)

How easily we too are distracted with life, our cares and responsibilities. If you are like me I ‘squirrel’ all over the place. I need to focus! Like Martha, we have great intentions and motives, after all she was preparing a meal for them. Yet there ARE times we are to set aside the stuff and just sit at Jesus’ feet. Setting aside what occupies our time, thoughts and attention. Learn of Him.

Distracted.

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

Posted by Inspired Fountain | July 12, 2016 | Categories: * Miscellanous Stuff | Tags: Distracted, focus on Jesus, focus on the bible | Leave a comment

But God…

Have you ever stood on the edge of the pages of your life and just shake your head in complete bewilderment and think one simple word, “HOW.” Then the rest of the frustration comes tumbling out. “How will this happen?” “How on earth can this be accomplished?” It is my tendency to face a situation and say “but God, this ….” and continue to whine, and explain all the obstacles, the ‘can’t dos.’　He, in His gracious manner pulls me back to … His word.

Believe it or not, ‘…but God … ‘ (or ‘….but the Lord’) is mentioned 326 times in the Bible. I have sat myself down with headset on, iPod set for slow worship, while I sipped my Grande peppermint hot chocolate and for the next 3-4 hours I looked up every one of those 326 verses, reading the context and re-familiarizing myself with the story, highlighting ‘but God’ in each verse. In this study, I was captured, captivated. I saw God’s character being placed in the forefront. There were loud moments of reassurance and yet quiet whispers of His love. This is what I found, this is what I learned.

I begin with Genesis 3:9. Adam and Eve are in the garden. What a life! Can you imagine, all you ever wanted, needed and the presence of God so intimate that He literally takes walks with you. Following Eves conversation with the creepy serpent, she is deceived, offering the fruit to Adam, he too chooses to eat. God is now coming for their daily walk together. The couple hides. “But the LORD God called to the man, ‘Where are you?‘” (Gen. 3:9) God calls. He knew very well where they were, the question was intended for them, to consider their location, their position and condition before Him. God is still calling. Where are YOU? I find it fascinating that God didn’t design us with a natural camouflage, He’d see us regardless.

Now the next ‘but God…’ in Genesis: The waters were high and a large hand built boat was tossed back and forth, a man and his family all alone among the precious cargo of every kind of animal created by God. Obedience led them to this completely unknown. Genesis 8:1 “But God remembered Noah and all the wild animals and the livestock that were with him in the ark, and He sent a wind over the earth, and the waters receded.” Are you too being tossed about, do flood waters surround you? God remembers. This doesn’t mean you temporarily slipped His mind, it means He will act on His promise to you. In His love, He will blow winds your way and cause the waters to decrease. Just wait, God remembers.

A man by the name of Jacob worked hard as requested and then was treated unfairly by his father-in-law. Genesis 31:42 “But God has seen my hardship and the toil of my hands, and last night He rebuked you.” God has seen. In the original Hebrew, the word ‘seen’ is an imperative, meaning we add a strong EXCLAMATION mark next to it. Not only that, but it is in the prolonged form, God has seen and will continue to see. He sees us where we are, how we are and how we are being treated. He will intervene, protect and defend. God sees!

Joseph, the cocky favored son, who was thrown in a pit, sold as a slave by FAMILY MEMBERS! Genesis 50:20 “You intended to harm me, but God intended it for good to accomplish what is now being done, and the saving of many lives.” God accomplishes. He　redeems the bad and transform for good to accomplish His plan.

Gideon, one of my all time favorites. The guy was just trying to survive, doing his job, when the angel of the LORD came to him. The angel addresses him with, “The LORD is with you, mighty warrior.” Gideon responds with his own ‘but Sir’. As the conversation progresses, Gideon becomes quite fearful, as God lays out the plan He has for him. God reassures him with “But the LORD said to him, ‘Peace! Do not be afraid…” Peace. We may be fearful, full of anxiety… but God – Peace! (Judges 6)

Moving on, Samuel is called to anoint the next king over Israel. He looks down the line up of the sons of Jesse, he sees Eliab, he isthe oldest, tall and looks kingly. Yet. “But the Lord said to Samuel, ‘do not consider his appearance or his height. The LORD does not look at the things man looks at. Man looks at the outward appearance, but the LORD looks at the heart.” God looks at the heart. He sees us on the inside, we may not seem to be much on the outside, but it is the inner man He is concerned about, a heart for Him. (1 Sam. 16:7)

Amazing, just amazing!　 The word is full of examples like these.

But the LORD was my support (2 Sam. 22:19) But the LORD was gracious to them (2 Kings 13:23) But the LORD is their refuge (Ps. 14:6) But the LORD delivers him (Ps. 34:19) But the LORD upholds the righteous (Ps. 37:17) But God has surely listened and heard my voice in prayer (Ps. 66:19) But God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever (Ps. 73:26) But God knows your hearts (Luke 16:15) But God raised Him (Jesus) from the dead (Acts 2:24) But God promised (Acts 7:5) But God has revealed it to us by His Spirit, (the deep things of God) (1 Cor. 2:10) I (Paul) planted the seed, Apollos watered it, But God made it grow (1 Cor.3:6) But God, who comforts the downcast (2 Cor. 7:6) But God had mercy on him (Phil. 2:27) But God is the builder of everything (Heb. 3:4)

I have learned much, just two words, placing the insignificant particle word ‘but’ and attach it to God. POWER! I revisited principles such as: God is incredible, He is never late, always on time, and never ignores, and is extremely attentive to details, details of our lives. He is concerned more for our welfare than our comfort, and goes to extreme at times to make sure we hear Him. I did notice that 15 times alone in the book of Genesis, God made sure they got the ‘…but God,’　establishing right up front, at the very beginning that …‘He is’. (see Heb. 11:6)

God calls, remembers, sees our hardships, accomplishes, is our peace and sees our heart. What circumstances are we facing today? Do we find ourselves needing one or ALL of these. May we remember, to trust the Lord, smother ourselves up again in His presence, trading our, ‘But God…’ full of complaint and whining, for HIS, ‘But God…‘

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

Posted by Inspired Fountain | July 10, 2016 | Categories: * Miscellanous Stuff | Tags: But God. God sees us | Leave a comment

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