"COME SIT WITH ME FOR A WHILE."

Years ago, my brother-in-law had two delightful fur-babies: Tucker, the effervescent and lovable Schnorkie (Schnauzer/Yorkie) and Ford, the curious and very cautious cat. During one of our visits, Ford and Tucker vied for time with me in the living room recliner. Sibling rivalry was often presented with a snort from Tucker or a quick swipe of Ford’s paw to claim cuddle territory. 

One morning, Ford was earnestly meowing outside my bedroom door. When I checked to see what he wanted, he led me to where I usually sit, and promptly jumped on the recliner, as if to say, “Come sit with me.” Tucker was close behind and nudged his way in for the same spot. 

Our pets depend on us for their everyday needs, but what they want and need most from us is connection, affection, and love, which they generously give without measure. God, who created the universe, does not need us, yet He created us to enjoy a loving connective relationship with Him. Thus, He extends the invitation, “Come sit with Me for a while.”

Jesus said, “Behold, I stand at the door (of your heart), and knock: if any man hears My voice, and opens the door, I will come in to him, and will sup with him, and he with Me” (Revelation 3:20). This is a beautiful picture of the Lord’s tremendous love for us and His great desire to fellowship with us each day.

In the beginning, God created Adam and Eve to enjoy an everlasting and loving relationship with Him. Each day, He walked in the Garden and communed with them. But this one day, “the man and his wife heard the sound of the Lord God as He was walking in the garden in the cool of the day, and they hid from the Lord God among the trees of the garden. But the Lord God called to the man, “Where are you?” (Genesis 3:8-9 NIV). God knew exactly where they were and what they had done, yet in their sin, they tried to hide from Him.

It is difficult to fathom why they exchanged the privilege and joy of daily being in the physical presence of God—for the enemy’s false promises that they could be like God? But Satan has not changed his strategies. He is still conning people into accepting lies as truth.

God had generously provided for all their needs—with one stipulation—they were to tend the Garden and obey Him. Unfortunately, Satan poisoned their minds with unbelief and distrust of God. So, they put their faith in Satan (the father of lies) and believed that God was withholding good things from them. Thus, they saw no reason to obey God’s explicit instructions not to eat the fruit from the tree of knowledge of good and evil.

Adam and Eve’s rebellion brought about humanity’s eternal separation from their Creator. Thankfully, Christ’s magnanimous love was so great that He willingly took our punishment on the Cross. And with His last breath, He said one word, “Tetelestai,” which in Greek means, “It is finished; “Paid in full.”

Jesus Christ paid our debt that day on Calvary’s cross—a debt He did not owe. But for love, He willingly took our place so that our relationship with God could be restored. Now, He extends His hand twenty-four-hours every day to all who will place their trust in Him.

Pets have unreserved trust and are completely loyal to their master. Pet owners who love their pets, know the joy of arriving home and being summarily greeted with an excited wagging tail and showers of licks and kisses. Christians, who have a relationship with Christ, should have that same kind of joyful anticipation and excitement knowing that when we “…draw near to God, He draws near to us (James 4:8). It is only in His presence that we find fullness of joy (Psalm 16:11). 

God’s presence goes with us and He gives us rest (Exodus 33:14). He promises to never leave nor forsake us. (Hebrews 13:5). “He listens to the godly person who does His will” (John 9:31) "For the eyes of the Lord are on the righteous and His ears are attentive to their prayer” (I Peter 3:12). He is attentive to our prayers, but it is the enemy who tries to convince us that God does not hear us, nor does He care about our needs.

We revel in our pets’ generous affections and love for us. And God glories in our relationship with Him, as we respond to His call to spend time with Him. It is in those intimate moments with Him that we cultivate a genuine love and appreciation for Him. And as we build that loving relationship, we long each day for His sweet invitation that beckons us to, “Come sit with Me for a while.”  

PRAYER: FATHER, today, I surrender afresh all that I am to You. Forgive my sins and my resistance to obey You. Help me to seek You and Your will with my whole heart, because each day is a precious gift and an opportunity to grow in faith and learn Your many truths while enjoying sweet fellowship with You. In Jesus’ name, amen.

BE A FAUCET AND NOT A DRAIN

God is the source of our hope. The psalmist declared, “And now, Lord, for what did I wait? My hope is in You)” (Psalm 39:7). A Christian’s goal should be to pour joy and the hope of God into the lives of others. There is so much negativity, craziness, and uncertainty in the world that we need to daily nourish the mind, spirit, and soul with God’s Word to prevent our own draining of hope, joy, and trust in Christ. Though we can appreciate the beauty of God’s creation, we also see the worst of humanity that can dampen our confidence in God and create a feeling of hopelessness for the future.

The world is brimming with hurting people who are looking for hope. So, what is hope? It is a feeling of expectation and desire for a certain thing to happen. The Old Testament believers were encouraged to wait for God hopefully and expectantly. In times of trouble, we are encouraged to wait for the Lord, who can take what appears to be a hopeless situation and turn it into a blessing.

The Psalmist provided us with prayers of hope: “May integrity and uprightness protect me, because my hope, LORD, is in You” (Psalm 25:21); “I wait for the LORD, my whole being waits, and in His Word I put my hope” (Psalm 130:5). For hope is an act of faith, “…so it lifts up our heart—weary, hopeless, skeptical, uncertain, angry, disappointed and fearful heart to God” (Lamentations 3:40-41).

Jesus created a pattern for us to follow—a poured out life of service to God and to others. He said, “…the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give His life as a ransom for many” (Matthew 20:28 NIV). The apostle Paul said to the Philippians, “But even if I am poured out as a drink offering on the sacrifice and serve of your faith, I rejoice and share my joy with you all” (Philippians 2:18).

In the Old Testament, a Jewish priest would pour a drink offering of wine beside the altar to symbolize his dedication in worship to God. Paul believed that in pouring his life out for others was an act of worship to God. Now in the new covenant, we offer ourselves—our bodies and minds—in service to others and to God, presenting our bodies to Him as His instruments of hope and truth though His Word.

John the Baptist came to introduce us to the Hope of the world—Jesus Christ who said, “I came into the world to bear witness to the Truth (John 18:37-38). Jesus Christ is the embodiment of all hope and Truth which belongs to God the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. There is no other truth. Those who do not know Jesus often say, “Your truth is your truth, and my truth is my truth.” The fact is that Jesus is the only way, THE TRUTH, and the life that leads to the Father (John 14:6).

The apostle Paul wrote letters to Timothy, whom he called his “beloved son” in the faith. He counseled him that there were things he must teach and insist on. “If anyone teaches otherwise and does not agree to the sound instruction of our Lord Jesus Christ and to godly teaching, they are conceited and understand nothing (I Timothy 6:3-4 NIV).

Paul then cautioned Timothy that as a disciple and representative of Christ, he was to “pursue righteousness [true goodness, moral conformity to the character of God], godliness [the fear of God], faith, love, steadfastness, and gentleness. Fight the good fight of the faith [in the conflict with evil]; take hold of the eternal life to which you were called and for which you made the good confession” (Timothy 6:11-12). Paul further instructed Timothy to guard what had been entrusted to his care. “Turn away from godless chatter and the opposing ideas of what is falsely called knowledge, which have professed and in so doing have departed from the faith.” (1 Timothy 6:20-21 NLT). If we are followers of Christ, then we are His disciples who represent Him.

Representatives of Christ are exhorted to be less concerned with their own interests and look to the interests of others (Philippians 2:4). As reported in Phycology Today, neuroscientists have proven that “Helping others triggers a release of oxytocin, which has the effect of boosting our mood and counteracts the effects of cortisol (the stress hormone). Interestingly, the higher our levels of oxytocin, the more we want to help others. When oxytocin is present, so is serotonin which plays a key role in mood, sleep, digestion, nausea, wound healing, bone health, and blood clotting. Also booked is dopamine which controls memory, movement, motivation, mood, attention and more.”

God promises that in pouring our lives out for others and satisfying the desires of those in need, He will make us strong and satisfy our desires. In fact, He promises to make us like a spring whose waters never fail. If we are like a faucet, pouring living water of refreshing to others, even if we are struggling with something, God will start a miraculous work in us. He will fill us with an everlasting abundance of refreshing water to keep us going as we bring refreshing and hope to others. That is how we become a fountain of hope instead of becoming drained of hope, strength, vitality, and energy.

The most important way that we can be a faucet of living water is to pray for others. “Devote yourselves to prayer being watchful and thankful” (Colossians 4:2 NIV). Prayer is the greatest gift that we can give to others. In fact, the Word of God tells us to “…rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus (1Thessalonians 5:16-18).

It is important to note that we give thanks in all things and not for all things as we patiently wait for answered prayer. In giving thanks, we are acknowledging that we trust God regardless of the circumstances, and that we believe that all things work together for good to those who love God and are called according to His purposes (Romans 8:28). If we truly believe that truth, then we can become a fountain of life and hope instead of a drain that sweeps away hope and faith.

Prayer: FATHER, help me to be a faucet that pours forth Your living water of hope, peace, and joy to others. In Jesus name, amen.

Picture Courtesy of 3345408 from Pixabay

"BUT GOD..."

“But God” is a powerful message. The word “but” means yet, nevertheless, nonetheless, however, even so, still, notwithstanding, despite that, and in spite of. Despite the Israelites constant murmuring and complaining, God continued to provide for them.

The stiff-necked Israelites had refused to worship God. But God in His mercy sent Moses to lead His people and their flocks and herds into the promise land. This promise is known as the Abrahamic Covenant, that still stands in perpetuity (Genesis 12:1-3). God then specified the actual property. “To your offspring I give this land, from the river of Egypt to the great river, the river Euphrates” (Genesis 15:18-21; Genesis 48:3-4). In hopes of maintaining peace with her neighbors, Israel has given away three-fourths of the land mass promised to them by God (Joel 3:2). And still there is no peace because her enemies want all Jewish people destroyed. The current rise in antisemitism only validates the spiritual battle that has raged for centuries.

The Jews were in bondage to the Pharoah of Egypt who refused to let God’s people go. But God sent plagues and death to all the first-born males, including Pharoah’s son. Only then did he let God’s people go. Moses then led the Israelites on a journey to the Red Sea.

Trapped by mountains on two sides, the enemy behind them, and the vast ocean before them, the Israelites complained bitterly and said they should have stayed in Egypt. “But God” instructed Moses to lift his staff that would part the waters for the people and their animals to escape the advancing Egyptian army.

Oceanographers, after years of searching, have discovered the exact place of the Red Sea crossing and have found the remains of chariot wheels incrusted with plankton at the bottom of the ocean bed that had previously dried from a strong east wind that God caused to blow all night (Exodus 14:1-30).

After passing safely through the Red Sea, they traveled three days without finding water. When they came to Marah, they could not drink the bitter water. So, the people grumbled against Moses, saying, “What are we to drink?” “But God”instructed Moses to throw a piece of wood into the water, making it drinkable (Exodus 15:22-25).

The Israelites then traveled to the Desert of Sin where they complained to Moses, “If only we had died by the Lord’s hand in Egypt! There, we sat around pots of meat and ate all the food we wanted, but you have brought us out into this desert to starve this entire assembly to death,” But God said to Moses, “I will rain down bread from heaven for you. The people are to go out each day and gather enough for that day” (Exodus 16:1-32). Yet His people continued to grumble and complain that they had no meat to eat. But God sent them quail. 

Israelites then camped at Rephidim, where they again complained they had no water. But God had Moses strike the Rock of Horeb and water flowed (Exodus 17:5-7) While at Rephidim, the Amalekites came and attacked the Israelites. But God gave Joshua victory over their enemy (17:8-14 NKJV).

Eventually, the Israelites arrived at Mt. Sinai where God would give Moses the Ten Commandments. Then the Lord said to Moses, “Tell the Israelites this: ‘You have seen for yourselves that I have spoken to you from heaven: Do not make any gods to be alongside Me; do not make for yourselves gods of silver or gods of gold” (Exodus 20:22-23). God gave this warning because He knew the wicked intent of His people.

God called Moses up the mountain to receive the Ten Commandments, while his brother Aaron stayed with the people. But when he tarried coming down the mountain, the people grew restless and convinced Aaron to gather all the gold jewelry and “…make us gods that shall go before us; as for this Moses, the man who brought us up out of the land of Egypt, we do not know what has become of him.” (Exodus 32:1)

Aaron should have dissuaded the people. Astonishingly, he instructed them, “Break off the golden earrings which are in the ears of your wives, your sons, and your daughters, and bring them to me. So, all the people broke off the golden earrings which were in their ears and brought them to Aaron. And he (Aaron) received the gold from their hand, and he fashioned it with an engraving tool, and made a molded calf. Then they said, ‘This is your god, O Israel, that brought you out of the land of Egypt!’” Not only did he not stop them from sinning, but he was complicit in their sin. (Exodus 32:2-4 NKJV)

When Moses approached the camp and saw the people dancing around the idol, his anger raged as he threw the tablets, breaking them into pieces. He then took the golden calf, burned it in the fire, ground it to powder, scattered it on the water, and made the Israelites drink it. (Exodus 32:19-20)

The Bible warns that “Every kingdom divided against itself is brought to desolation, and every city or house divided against itself will not stand” (Matthew 12:25; Luke 11:17). The Jews were divided between worshipping God whom they could not see, and an idol created by their own hands that they could see. Ironically, Jesus (God incarnate) eventually came in body and spirit but was rejected by the very people who were looking for their coming King.

Exodus through the Book of Numbers records God’s miraculous care and provision; yet the Israelites carnal demand of a god they could see should not shock us, considering today’s increasing apostasy, the questioning of God’s existence, and worshipping the gods of self, pleasures, and materiel things.

God responded to 40 years of the Israelites’ complaining and bemoaning their leaving Egypt, “… not one of those who saw My glory and the signs I performed in Egypt and in the wilderness but who disobeyed Me and tested Me ten times—not one of them will ever see the land I promised on oath to their ancestors. No one who has treated Me with contempt will ever see it” (Numbers 14:22-23 NIV). All who had bitterly complained died in the wilderness. Only those age nineteen and younger went on to possess the Promise Land, which eventually became the great nation of Israel.

Despite the Israelites ingratitude and constant grumbling, God showed them mercy, and today He continues to show mercy as He calls the Jews from around the world back to their homeland...Israel. Most Jews have rejected their Jewish Messiah for more than 2,000 years, but God has not forgotten His people. His love and compassion continue to call to the Jews and to reach out to all people who will receive His Son, Jesus Christ.

PRAYER: Father, open the hearts and minds of those who ignore You, don’t believe You, deny Your Son Jesus exists, or believe they can do life without You. But You, the eternal God does not give up on people and You have not forsaken Your chosen people—the Jews. Therefore, pursue hearts and minds of all people, so that 2024 will see a great harvest of hearts surrendered to Your Son, Jesus Christ. In Jesus name, amen.  

NOTE: The picture is of Mt. Sinai and the black is still there from when “…Mount Sinai was completely in smoke because the Lord descended upon it in fire. Its smoke ascended like the smoke of a furnace, and the whole mountain quaked greatly.” (Exodus 19:18 NKJV)

PERSONAL OBSERVATIONS

Recently, I rediscovered a few “personal observations” that I had paraphrased from biblical truths with the purpose of anchoring my heart to God. During the first years of walking with the Lord, it became apparent that the world is a powerful distraction from God, so it was important not to lose sight of His life-changing truths. It is my hope that you see these observations as meaningful, gentle reminders of God’s great love that continually calls to each heart.

1. Don’t try to look beyond the horizon when you have yet to make your footprint on today.

 2. Don’t be a prisoner of your circumstances; give thanks to God in your circumstances.

 3. We cross many bridges in life, but the most important bridge is Christ who provides access to God.

 4. We measure our lives by our successes. God measures by how much we love others.

 5. The Word of God is sweet nectar for the soul.

 6. We see flaws and mistakes; God sees a work in progress.

 7. Truth and faith cannot occupy the same space where fear and doubt exist.

 8. Be careful to travel the road that leads to God’s plan for you.

 9. My choices determine my destiny.

 10. If you ignore God’s advice and counsel, calamity will surely overtake you.

 11. May God’s truths and wisdom always be my guide.

 12. The Lord is my strength and shield when I place my trust in Him. 

 13. Life is like a chess game between God and the devil, but God checkmated the devil.

 14. Life is but a vapor when compared to eternity. Don’t waste the talents and gifts God gave you.

 15. Walk by faith and not by sight.

 16. God graciously extends forgiveness, mercy, and love to all; it is my choice to accept or reject it.

 17. All things are possible to those who believe in the One who makes them possible.

 18. The Lord is perfect love, and perfect love casts out all fear.

 19. Do not be wise in your own eyes but seek God’s wisdom and truth.

 20. Knowledge of God’s Word preserves life.

 21.  Seeking understanding of God’s Word will bring security, peace, and wisdom.

 22. Don’t gamble with eternity. You just might lose.

 23. A surrendered heart to Christ, is like a beautiful butterfly that broke free from its cocoon and took flight.

 24. Jesus Christ is the greatest expression of God’s love given to mankind.

 25. Forgiving others as Christ forgives us is paramount to the Christian faith.

 26. Set your heart and eyes on the Lord, for this world is but a brief stay.

 27. God does not honor a divided heart that serves to please both God and the world.

 28. Various trials and suffering have the power to produce patience and to refine faith.

 29. A prideful heart brings destruction. Walk humbly before God.

 30. All that we do should be done in genuine love as Christ loves us.

 PRAYER: Lord, may the truths found in Your Word never leave my heart and mind, and may they always be a constant reminder of Who You are and Your great love for me. In Jesus’ name, amen.

GOD'S WORKMANSHIP

Composer, director, and film maker, Tim Janis, posts picturesque YouTube videos showcasing God’s creation with all its splendor and beauty seen around the world. His videos have given me a greater appreciation for God’s workmanship and artistry. For God said, “I Myself made the earth and personally created humankind upon it. My own hands stretched out the skies; I marshaled all their starry hosts” (Isaiah 45:12 ISV).

The world, the solar system, and all creation did not come into existence by a random and chaotic occurrence. An oil painting cannot paint itself. It requires an artist who has a God-given aptitude for understanding color, light, texture, and design and then applies brush strokes to the canvas to create something memorable and lasting. God is the ultimate Creator and Designer of His flawless and magnificent creation.

God uses all creation to speak to us. Intricacies and perfection can been seen in all living things such as flora—plant life. If we consider flowers, there are 400,000 stunning flowers with varied colors, shapes, sizes, and fragrances. Jesus said, “See how the flowers of the field grow. They do not labor or spin. Yet I tell you that not even Solomon in all his splendor was dressed like one of these” (Matthew 6:28-29 NIV).

I marvel at God’s precise care and provision for His beautiful creation in all forms of life. The Clements Checklist of Birds of the World lists 10,906 known bird species. Of that number, every specie of bird has distinct characteristics, bird calls, color patterns, and design that sets them apart from every other species of birds. Jesus said, “Look at the birds of the air, for they neither sow nor reap nor gather into barns; yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not of more value than they?” (Matthew 6:26-27 NKJV).

God’s intelligent design is seen in DNA, a complex building block that is present in living cells of all living things. Only DNA, and no other molecule, carries the ability to copy and then pass heritable information to future generations. DNA is the essence and building block of life itself. That alone should keep us in awe of the complexities of all living creatures and God’s sovereign provision for each living thing that He created. “… for [God has] created all things, and for [His] pleasure they are and were created” (Revelation 4:11 KJV).

God knew the heart of mankind and that many would need a loyal companion. For some that is a dog, defined as “man’s best friend.” So, He created roughly 360 dog breeds to be faithful and loyal companions with the desire to please and problem-solve. They respond to human instruction to obey and protect. Many are able to rescue people and animals and are adaptable for use as guide and hearing dogs, emotional support dogs as well as sled dogs and service dogs for the military and police.

Let us not leave out the 40-70 cat breeds that are inquisitive, smart, playful, affectionate, and cuddly companions for humans. All that God has made reveals extreme diversity in His creation.

We have the opportunity to learn so much from observing God’s creation, because often He uses what He created to open our eyes to truth. With that said, I have a 19-year-old toy poodle named Brandi. Over the years, God has taught me some very valuable lessons through my sweet fur baby. Recently, He revealed another truth when Brandi decided to be pickier with her eating than she has been in the past.   

Brandi loves chicken and salmon, so her favorites are rotated. Depending on what I am giving her that day, I mix the chicken or the salmon into her homemade food and then top it with a little more of that selection. Usually that works, but the other day she only ate what was on top and would not explore any further. Had she gone one bite deeper, she would have found a plethora of salmon.

My frustration was increasing when God’s sweet Spirit spoke to my spirit, “This is what many of my people do with My Word. They scan the surface and do not seek the hidden nuggets of truth that are deep within those initial truths.”

I have found that to be true in my journey with God. When I pray for a deeper revelation of His Word, those golden nuggets of truth surface. So, if a deeper understanding of God and His word is desired, then it requires seeking revelation through prayer and study. The wonderful result of uncovering those treasured truths is learning about God and His purpose for us. We also receive great joy, comfort, and peace in knowing more about His kingdom and His remarkable plan for us.

Jesus said, “The kingdom of heaven is like treasure hidden in a field, which a man found and hid; and for joy over it he goes and sells all that he has and buys that field” (Matthew 13:44-45 NKJV). God’s Word is that field with treasures to be found within.

Do we see God’s Word and all that He has created as treasures to embrace? Do we desire to search His holy Word and look deeper for those beautiful nuggets of truth? “For the word of God is living and active and sharper than any two-edged sword and piercing as far as the division of soul and spirit, of both joints and marrow, and able to judge the thoughts and intentions of the heart” (Hebrews 4:12).

King David said this to his son, “As for you, my son Solomon, know the God of your father, and serve Him with a whole heart and a willing mind; for the Lord searches all hearts, and understands every intent of the thoughts. If you seek Him, He will let you find Him; but if you forsake Him, He will reject you forever” (1 Chronicles 28:9).

Are we seeking and serving God with a whole heart and a willing mind? Do we see the Bible as a rich treasure to be explored, or is it just another book to set on a shelf or in a drawer. We are encouraged to “let the Word of Christ dwell in [us] richly in all wisdom…” (Colossians 3:16).

Are we willing to serve The Creator of all things and allow Him to work in our hearts through the power of His Word. For it is in His Word that we find hidden truths that reveal who we are, the nature of God, the beauty of His creation, and His immense love for us.

PRAYER: FATHER, forgive me for not embracing the wonderment of Your creation. Help me to be sensitive to Your Spirit who guides and teaches through Your Word and through Your Creation. Encourage me to prayerfully read and seek You in understanding Your Word. In Jesus’ name, amen.

THE WOMAN AT THE WELL

God does not want any to parish and spend eternity separated from Him. Thus, His pursuit of the woman at the well illustrates His unrelenting pursuit of His children.

Jesus was traveling north from Judea to Galilee and deliberately chose to go through Samaria, an area that people avoided because of overt tension between the Samaritans and the Jewish people. That tension arose from the Samaritans worshipping false gods jointly with the biblical God. However, Jesus was on a saving mission (John 4:4).

Jesus purposefully sent His disciples to town to buy food with the intention of going after the heart of a particular Samaritan woman. He knew everything about her and her unrecognized and desperate need for Him. So, when He arrived at Jacob’s well, the lone Samaritan woman came to draw water.

Jesus not only sought out this woman, but He pursues us because He knows our hearts, everything about us, and our every thought, intention, and need. Nothing is hidden from Him. King David recognized God as the One who knows us intimately:

You have searched me, Lord, and You know me.You know when I sit and when I rise; You perceive my thoughts from afar. You discern my going out and my lying down; You are familiar with all my ways. Before a word is on my tongue You, Lord, know it completely” (Psalm 139:1-4).

I encourage you to read the rest of Psalm 139:5-24. It will bless you in knowing that God knows you, He is with you, and daily pursues your heart.

The women in the community always drew water in the early morning or the cool of the evening. The Samaritan woman made her trips to the well around noon during the hottest part of the day to avoid the women who viewed her as an immoral woman. Therefore, the midday trip avoided their judgmental eyes and unkind words.

When the woman came to draw water, Jesus gently engaged her in conversation by asking, “Will you give Me a drink?” (John 4:7 NIV) The Samaritan woman answered, “You are a Jew, and I am a Samaritan woman. How can you ask me for a drink?” (vs. 4:9). Jesus was breaking a cultural taboo of both race and gender. With love and tenderness, He answered her, “If you knew the gift of God and who it is that asks you for a drink, you would have asked Him and He would have given you living water” (vs 4:10). She immediately asked where she could get living water so she would no longer need to travel to the well.

So, what is “living water?” We discover the answer when Jesus was in the temple surrounded by a throng of worshipers. He suddenly cried out, “If anyone is thirsty, let him come to Me and drink. He who believes in Me, as the scriptures said, ‘From His innermost being will flow rivers of living water.’  “…He spoke of the Spirit, whom those who believed in Him were to receive…” (John 7:37-39).

Then Jesus told her to get her husband. Jesus knows our every thought, our every sin, and our heart’s intentions. There is nothing hidden from Him. The woman quickly answered that she had no husband and Jesus said, “You are right when you say you have no husband. The fact is, you have had five husbands, and the man you now have is not your husband. What you have just said is quite true”(John 4: 17-18).

Surprised, she acknowledged He was a prophet and that their ancestors worshiped on that mountain, but Jews worshipped in Jerusalem. Jesus responded, …you will worship the Father neither on this mountain nor in Jerusalem. You Samaritans worship what you do not know; we worship what we do know, for salvation is from the Jews. Yet a time is coming and has now come when the true worshipers will worship the Father in the Spirit and in truth, for they are the kind of worshipers the Father seeks. God is spirit, and His worshipers must worship in the Spirit and in truth (vs. 21-24).

What does it mean to worship in “the Spirit and in truth?” True worship is a connection between the Spirit of God and our spirit, which involves the whole heart and a passion for God’s truth. Knowing truth requires knowledge of God that comes from His Word (Romans 12:1-2).

Why is the Word so important? The answer is found in John 1:1-5. In the beginning was the Word (Jesus) and the Word (Jesus) was with God, and the Word was God. He (Jesus) was with God in the beginning. Through Him (Jesus) all things were made; without Him (Jesus) nothing was made that has been made.  In Him (Jesus) was life, and that life was the light of all mankind. The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it. Jesus is the Word and to know the Word is to know Jesus.

The woman quickly acknowledged that the Messiah was coming soon, not realizing that He was standing before her. And then Jesus said, “I, the one speaking to you—I am He” (vs.27).

The realization stunned her, so leaving her water jar behind (her past), she ran to town to tell all who would hear, Come, see a man who told me everything I ever did. Could this be the Messiah? They left town and made their way to Jesus (vs 28-29).

Meanwhile the disciples had returned and urged Jesus to eat, but He refused, saying, “My food is to do the will of Him who sent Me and to finish His work.” “I tell you, open your eyes and look at the fields! They are ripe for harvest” (vs. 34-35).

Clearly, Jesus’ mission was to bring in the harvest (souls). The woman who shared her story caused many Samaritans to come and ask Jesus to stay, so He ministered two more days. Many were saved and the woman at the well, whose life had changed, was described as “equal to the apostles” as she continued to share her encounter with Christ and how He had changed her life.

The fields are ripe for harvest. The world is in great turmoil, and many are looking for answers. Jesus said, “I am THE way, THE truth, and THE life. No man comes to the Father except through Me” (John 14:6 NIV).Those people who know Christ as their Lord and Savior have a personal story to share and their story could bring another life into God’s kingdom.

PRAYER: FATHER, we live in troubling times. You are our only hope and comfort. Show me Your will for my life and give me courage to share with others my redemptive relationship with Christ. In Jesus’ name, amen.

IF YOU HAVE NOT YET EXPERIENCED YOUR OWN STORY OF REDEMPTION, THEN PRAY:

FATHER, I want a more intimate relationship with You, so that I have a story of redemption to share with others. I acknowledge Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior and ask today that the reality of Christ and His love for me will manifest in my heart. In Jesus’ name, amen.

UNMASKING THE ENEMY

The level of evil increases with each passing day, and people ask, “What is happening?” The answer can be found within Scripture that unmasks the enemy: Our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms (Ephesians 6:12 NIV).

According to Barna, most American Christians don’t believe Satan exists and is only a symbol of evil. However, scripture warns, Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil walks about like a roaring lion, seeking whom he may devour (I Peter 5:8 NKJV). Therefore, know that your adversary has several monikers:

• Ruler of this world (John 12:31); god of this world (2 Corinthians 4:4).

• Devil (John 8:44; Rev. 20:10, James 4:7, Jude 1:6)

• Adversary (1 Peter 5:8)

• Prince of the power of the air (Ephesians 2:2)

• Roaring Lion (1 Peter 5:8)

• The Evil One (Ephesians 6:14-17)

• Father of Lies (John 8:44)

• Satan (Luke 10:18-20; 2 Corinthians 11:14, Rev. 13:4)

• Dragon (Revelation 12:4,7-9; 13:24)

• Tempter (Matthew 4:3)

• Beelzebul, the prince of demons (Matthew 12:24)

• Day Star (Isaiah 12:12-15)

• The Accuser (Revelation 12:10)

The October 7, 2023, massacre of God’s covenant people in Israel happened because Hamas (Meaning: violence, evil, destruction, fanatasism) is controlled by demonic forces to carry out unthinkable atrocities against Jewish and Christian men, women, children, and infants. It can no longer be ignored that Satan and his kingdom are initiating attacks of unprecedented evil and destruction at warp speed.

God says, My people are destroyed for lack of knowledge (Hosea 4:6 NKJV). Therefore, be aware that Satan not only overtly attacks, he also uses every form of deception to capture and dull minds through seemingly harmless entertainment, movies, books, and activities that open doors to the supernatural and demonic, thereby, putting people in his crosshairs. Halloween is one such deception.

Most people do not know the sinister history behind Halloween, dating back to the Celtic priests and Druids in 4th century BC. Some might argue that what Druids did then, does not apply now. However, Revelation 20:10 tells us that the spirit realm exists in perpetuity, until the end days, when Satan and his demons will be thrown into the lake of fire upon Christ’s return as Conqueror and LORD of Lords and KING of kings.

Druids believed that on October 31, the holiday of Samhain (the Celtic lord of death), evil spirits would attack people, and on that night, the souls of the dead would return to their earthly homes. To escape, people wore costumes to ward off evil spirits, and food was set out, hoping to appease the spirits with a “treat” thus preventing an evil “trick.” Thus, today’s children go door-to-door saying, “Trick or treat.”

Druids hollowed out turnips and pumpkins and placed candles inside to mark their homes as sympathetic to the Satanists, while honoring Sabbat, a ceremony that worshipped their god, goddesses, and the seasons. This activity evolved into modern-day Druidry.

Part of Druid ritual was to build huge “sacred” bonfires of oak branches. Why specifically oak? Because oak was considered the “tree of life” that had roots penetrating deep into the Underworld, which is the place for the spiritually dead in hell. The true Tree of Life that was in the Garden of Eden is now in heaven (Revelation 22:1-2).

Animals, crops, and humans were sacrificed to their god and goddesses, and is still done today. Divination was practiced as they looked for omens while the victims struggled in the flames. However, the Word tells us that no person shall make their child pass through the fire, practice witchcraft, be a fortune teller, a wizard, or a spiritualist or a medium (such as the Long Island Medium), who calls up the dead which are demons. For all who do these things are an abomination to the LORD (Deuteronomy 18:10).

Druids continued to practice their pagan ritual even after their “Christian” conversion. Then called “All Saints Day,” “All Hallows Day,” and “All Hallows Eve,” it is now referred to as Halloween.

The founder of the Church of Satan, Anton LaVey, said with great delight, “I am glad that Christian parents let their children worship the devil at least one night out of the year. Welcome to Halloween.”

Consider this fact: Satanists worship Satan on October 31 and Christians worship Jesus Christ on December 25th. Satanists do not celebrate Christmas and Jesus Christ. So, why do Christians participate in Halloween—the day satanists celebrate Satan, who is their god and is responsible for the 50% increase in violent crimes on Halloween (as reported by CBS news, Northeastern Global News, and other news agencies).

Another contradiction is found with Christians who display this scripture in their homes: As for me and my house, we will serve the Lord, yet they have Halloween decorations on their yards and in their homes that represent a pagan ritual. The Israelites had combined idols with the worship of God, resulting in their separation from God. Halloween not only opposes all things of God, but it also opens a door to the demonic.

Evangelist and author, John Ramirez, had been involved with devil worship for 25 years until his Christian conversion. He exposes the inner working of Satan’s demonic realm in his book, Armed and Dangerous: The Ultimate Battle Plan for Targeting and Defeating the Devil.

Ramirez warns parents of the danger in painting their children’s faces and allowing them to wear costumes and masks. In doing so, they are innocently making a pact with the enemy and unknowingly sacrificing their children to his demonic kingdom. Even decorating yards and entryways with ghosts, skeletons, witches, carved pumpkins, and anything associated with Halloween are actions that surrender to Satan their blood-purchased rights given by Jesus. Note: Halloween decorations, which God abhors, are different from beautiful decorations that celebrate the fall season and Thanksgiving.

Today’s Satanists practice pagan, evil rituals. That’s why pets and people mysteriously vanish prior to or on Halloween. In fact, in 2019, the Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SPCA) posted a Facebook warning regarding cats, “Don’t forget to bring me inside on Halloween. Most folks are nice, but some are mean!”

The enemy and his demons are very territorial and have a high regard for authority. If we fail to establish God’s authority within our homes and on our properties, then the enemy will establish his authority and claim those homes as his jurisdiction.

Jesus had numerous encounters with demons and with Satan, and many times He drove out demonic spirits with His Word (Matthew 8:16). Christians, empowered by the Holy Spirit, have that same authority to speak His Word into any situation.

If you or your children have participated in Halloween, I encourage you to say the following prayer:

PRAYER: Father, you have made it very clear that Halloween is a pagan holiday for the worship of Satan and demonic activity. I ask your forgiveness for taking part in Halloween and allowing my children to participate in what I thought was innocent fun. Give me an even greater understanding and knowledge of the enemy’s methods of destruction, so I can protect myself and my family. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

FOOTNOTE: Dietrich Bonhoeffer, a German pastor and anti-Nazi dissident, was executed by the Nazi’s. He left these words for future generations: Silence in the face of evil is itself evil: God will not hold us guiltless. Not to speak is to speak. Not to act is to act.

WE MUST PRAY

The New Oxford American Dictionary defines prayer as “a request for help or an expression of thanks addressed to God.” Prayer is conversation with God, through Jesus our Intercessor. In other words, a prayer is addressed to God the Father and is ended with, “In Jesus’ name.”  

Adam and Eve enjoyed face-to-face communication with God as they strolled with Him in the Garden. Unfortunately, disobedience and rebellion severed their beautiful and intimate relationship with God. Fortunately for us, God’s rich mercy restored relationship through the shed blood of His Son, Jesus Christ. Now, through prayer, we have complete access to our heavenly Father, who hears and answers prayers.

Prayerlessness (failure to communicate with God) ties His hands. He gave us dominion over the earth with the command to subdue it (Genesis 1:28). For God to intervene in the affairs of mankind, we must pray. He will not violate His laws and interfere in the events of mankind, because He does not force His will upon us. Thus, we must pray and intercede for ourselves, our families, friends, leaders, the U.S.A., and a lost and dying world.

Prayer initiates the supernatural intervention of God who desires to move on behalf of His creation; however, He waits for us to ask. And in asking, we have confidence that whatever we ask in the name of Jesus Christ that God the Father will respond…in His time (John 16:23). However, there is a caveat to this statement. When asking, we must examine our motives. Are we seeking His will with pure motives or for personal gain? James, the half-brother of Jesus said, “You ask and do not receive, because you ask amiss, that you may spend it on your pleasures” (James 4:1-4).

Prayer is a mobilizing force that should be the first line of defense. Unfortunately, prayer is often the last resort after all human efforts have been exhausted. Apathy towards prayer gives the enemy an opening to rob, kill, and destroy. That is why the Apostle Paul exhorted followers of Christ to pray without ceasing (I Thessalonians 5:17). “For the Lord is near to all who call upon Him, to all who call upon Him in truth” (Psalm 145:18). 

Throughout the Bible, men and women prayerfully petitioned God, but most importantly, the words, “And God heard,” are repeated throughout Scripture. Not only can we be comforted, knowing that He hears us, but we have the assurance that our prayers are so important to God that they are a “sweet incense” held in “golden bowls” (Revelation 5:8). Assuredly, God hears our every prayer and answers in His time and according to His will.

Prayer is conversation with our Heavenly Father who lovingly fashioned us to have fellowship with Him. Conversations with Him can be long or short. It is not the quantity of words; rather it is one’s heart speaking to God’s heart. We can share our deepest thoughts and concerns and know that He receives us without judgment, criticism, or rejection.  

Prayer is the exchange of information with God. The mistake often made in prayer is to pray repetitiously as if it were a mantra. However, God instructs that when we pray, we are not to use vain (useless) repetitions (Matthew 6:7).

When we converse with God, His Spirit responds, but are we listening? Imagine the limitations within a relationship that has little communication. The relationship would not grow, causing one or both to seek others for a connection.

The beautiful aspect of prayer is that praying can be done while driving, walking, jogging, working in the yard, cooking, showering, resting, etc. It does not matter the time or place. God never sleeps and is accessible twenty-four-seven. When we want to express love and appreciation, ask for forgiveness, seek direction, or ask for help, He is always available to hear and to respond. In return, we must listen for His Spirit to speak guidance, direction, and comfort to our spirit.

God’s Word assures us that He will never leave nor forsake us. It is we who ignore the Father. He longs for fellowship, for He created us for fellowship. Sadly, that sweet communion with God is too often replaced with numerous and often unnecessary activities, mindless hours sitting before a television, and countless hours on electronic devices.

Praying, listening, and speaking God’s Word are vital keys in communicating with Him and taking authority over the enemy. The more we apply and speak God’s Word, the more we recognize His voice that speaks direction, comfort, wisdom, knowledge, discernment, and even correction. Through prayer, we learn how to apply His Word to everyday life. We understand that His Word is alive, powerful, and sharper than any two-edged sword that pierces and divides soul and spirit and discerns the thoughts and intentions of the heart (Hebrews 4:12). His Word never fails and is like a heat-seeking missile that speedily finds its target.

There is delivering, healing power in speaking God’s Word for His Word subdues the enemy and summons angels to fight for us. When His Word is spoken, His life force goes forth to accomplish His Word, for it was His spoken Word that gave life and form to all creation. To neglect prayer is to inhibit God’s power to work within us. For God’s Word is creative, restorative, regenerative life to the mind, body, soul, and spirit. Ignoring His Word is to ignore the power of His Son Jesus and the Source of life.              

Daily, we witness the dismantling of America. Violence is rampant, and freedoms and prosperity, once enjoyed by Americans and coveted by other countries, are quickly being lost to government mandates designed to erode constitutional rights. Difficult days promised in God’s Word are here, but how many are prepared for even darker days to come?

More pastors are alerting people to heed the Scripture’s warnings to watch for Jesus’ return least we be caught off guard due to careless living. “For scoffers will come, scoffing, and following their own evil desires. They will say, “Where is this ‘coming’ He promised? Ever since our ancestors died, everything goes on as it has since the beginning of creation” (2 Peter 3:3-4 NIV).

Jesus told His disciples of terrible times in the last days. People will be lovers of themselves, money, pleasure, boastful, proud, disobedient, abusive, ungrateful, unholy, without love, unforgiving, slanderous, without self-control, brutal, haters of good, rash, treacherous, conceited, rather than lovers of God—having a form of godliness but denying its power (2 Timothy 3:1-4). “Therefore, keep watch, because you do not know on what day your Lord will come” (Matthew 24:37-42 NIV). For that reason, God urges us to “…keep a constant vigil [and pray] that we may arrive in His presence without experiencing the horrors that will come upon the earth” (Luke 21:35-36).

PRAYER: FATHER, Your Word tells me not to be anxious for anything, but in everything by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, let my requests be made known to You and Your peace will guard my heart and mind (Philippians 4:6). Therefore, I ask that You help me to make a daily habit of praying, expressing my heart, and learning to listen to You. In Jesus’ name, amen.      

THE WAY

Today’s demagogues are pushing the lie that A.I. and other advanced technologies can create eternal life and 2.0 humans that become their own god. Therefore, heaven is a fantasy and hell is a fictitious place that can be dismissed. Yet Jesus spoke of hell at least 20 times and called it a place of “unquenchable fire,” “outer darkness,” “everlasting fire,” along with 17 other references using the word “hell.”  

Jesus said, "Do not be afraid of those who kill the body but cannot kill the soul. Rather, be afraid of the one (Satan) who can destroy both soul and body in hell" (Matthew 10:28). If you question the reality of hell, read 23 Minutes in Hell by Bill Wiese, or watch his video on YouTube.

Then there are those who believe that heaven is available to “good people” who do “good works.” Just ask the average person if they are a good person and they will always answer, “Yes.” However, heaven cannot be earned through our goodness or good works, although Christians should model those attributes. Unfortunately, a growing number of people hold the false mindset that those qualities don’t matter because there are many roads to heaven, so live your life the way you want, because everyone is going to heaven.

Jesus stated, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man comes to the Father, but by Me (John 14:6). Ponder this: If there are many roads to heaven, then why was it necessary for Jesus Christ to become the propitiation for our sins and willingly suffer brutal torture and die a barbaric and underserved death for our sakes? 

Eternity cannot be left to chance. For this is certain: there are only two destinations. One is an eternity of unspeakable joy with the living Christ and His Father in heaven. The other is never ending torment and suffering with Satan and his demonic realm.

This world is a brief train stop from our final destination. The Word warns, “Do not love the world or anything in the world. If anyone loves the world, love for the Father is not in them. For everything in the world—the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life—comes not from the Father but from the world. The world and its desires pass away, but whoever does the will of God lives forever” (I John 2:15-17 NIV).

Clearly this life cannot guarantee security through the economy, bank accounts, jobs, good health, 401Ks, retirement plans, or anything that promises a secure future. The Covid Pandemic proved that nothing is secure as we witnessed the economy’s downward spiral. Businesses closed, jobs were lost, marriages ended, health failed, suicides increased, people died from COVID, and children suffered academically. Now we have inflation with the threat of another pandemic.

Mercifully, God never fails us. He has all power to make a way because He is The Way—if we choose to partner with Him. In fact, many in the early church were known as followers of “The Way.”

The world is in total chaos and offers no lasting security. Our security is God, the Creator of the universe. Only He can provide direction, peace, comfort, and joy in these difficult and uncertain times. We may have every monetary comfort, but if we don’t have a daily relationship with Him, our soul is disquieted as we yearn for solutions from a person who can turn things around. In truth, only transformed hearts and the power of prayer can create change.

Jesus came so we could have the abundant life. However, He was not speaking of what the prosperity preachers promise: abundance of wealth, lavish lifestyles, prestige, and power. Jesus was speaking of an abundant, glorious, fulfilling, everlasting life in heaven.

The late Reverend Billy Graham said that “heaven is a place of never-ending inexpressible joy, limitless peace, pure love, and beauty beyond description in the presence of God and loved ones.” Heaven is truly the abundant life. In the meantime, while we are on earth, God longs for relationship with us and that we trust Him.

Perhaps you gave your heart to the Lord many years ago, but worldly distractions and/or painful circumstances distanced you from God. The good news is that He is more than able to lift you above the disappointments, missed opportunities, regrets, failures, and any hidden sin. He is ready to bring you into a new place and new walk with Him.

The Apostle Peter denied the Lord three times, yet Jesus gave him an opportunity for redemption and reconciliation by asking three times, “Peter, do you love Me?” Peter remorsefully answered the Lord three times that he loved Him (John 21:15-17). Jesus did not make an issue of Peter’s previous denials, nor did He chastise or condemn him, because He knew Peter’s heart. The Lord’s purpose was to give Peter an opportunity to show contrition, so that he could be reinstated into the ministry of shepherding and evangelizing.

The enemy uses past mistakes to divert us from God’s plans. Christ did not come to condemn; He came that we might have eternal life with Him. However, like Peter, we must come to God with a contrite spirit. If you have strayed from the Lord or have grown lax in your relationship with Him, then I invite you to rededicate your life to Him:

LORD, I repent for allowing the things of this world to be first in my life. Cleanse me of all unrighteousness. I rededicate my life to You and invite Jesus to be Lord of my mind, body, spirit, and soul. I surrender all that I am to Your will. Fill me afresh with your Holy Spirit and give me strength, wisdom, and courage that I may faithfully pursue You and Your purposes in reaching my God-appointed destiny. In Jesus’ name, amen.

Maybe you were not churched, or you were raised in church but never made a verbal commitment to Christ. Jesus said, “… confess with your mouth the Lord Jesus and believe in your heart that God has raised Him from the dead and you will be saved” (Romans 10:9 NKJV). If you never verbally made a heart-felt commitment to Christ, then I invite you to say the following prayer:

Father, Your Word says that “all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God” (Romans 3:23). Therefore, I confess that I am a sinner and repent of my sins. I believe Jesus Christ, died on the cross for me; He rose from the dead, and sits at Your right hand. I ask forgiveness as I surrender my life and will to the Lordship of Jesus Christ. In obedience to Your Word, fill me with Your Holy Spirit. Thank You for all that You have done and all that You are about to do in my life. In Jesus’ name, amen. 

It is important to know the “Author” and “Finisher” of your faith. The Bible is life’s roadmap that reveals a portrait of God’s heart and His great love and purpose for us. If you do not own a Bible, select one that is easily understood such as the New King James Version (NKJV), the New International Version (NIV), or the Living Bible (TLB). If you have a Bible, dust it off and try to read at least one or two chapters (about one to two pages) each day.

The LORD assures us that He will be with us and never leave nor forsake us (Deuteronomy 31:8). So as the Day of His coming approaches closer, may we be mindful to use each day to pray and seek God in His Word, for in doing so, He will be a lamp to our feet and a light for our path (Psalm 119:105).

PRAYER: Father, thank you that Jesus Christ, who is the Way, the truth, and the life willingly took my punishment…a punishment that He did not deserve and gladly suffered so that I could have an eternal home in heaven. Please direct my steps each day and help me to be faithful to pray and to make wise decisions and choices according to Your will and purposes. In Jesus’ name, amen.

"BE NOT AFRAID"

More and more people are allowing world events and garbled information to create fear and anxiety that torment, confuse, and potentially paralyze any ability to walk in faith. It is Satan, the god of this world, who uses fear to capture minds and cause people to question and doubt the reliability and truth of God’s Word and His promises (2 Corinthians 4:4).

God knew that fear was going to be our greatest adversary. So, he stated 365 scriptural warnings and admonitions to remind us each day not to fear. “For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world…” (Ephesians 6:12). As much as that reality is rejected, the fact remains that there are two worlds—the seen and the unseen. Fortunately, Jesus defeated Satan and his minions in that part of the unseen world. As Christ followers, we can go to the scriptures and learn the importance of knowing our authority over that dark world.

Daily, the enemy of our soul works to create fear and a reason to question God and His Word. But God says, “Be strong and courageous. Do not be frightened, and do not be dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go” (Joshua 1:9). That is why the daily reading of His Word is crucial. It reveals God’s truths that will build faith, overcome fear, and provide the most reliable, solid foundation to build trust in God and not in ourselves and our circumstances.

The Bible speaks of three kinds of fear:

1. Destructive fear spawns anxiety, distrust, and unbelief.

2. Healthy fear alerts of impending danger.

3. Holy fear reveres God, His sovereignty, and His Word.

God’s Word encourages us to trust in the Lord with all our heart and lean not on our own understanding (Proverbs 3:5). If we are trusting in the Lord with all our heart, then we have no fear because it is settled in our heart that all things will work together for good for those who love God and are called according to His purpose (Romans 8:28).

Learning to trust with all our heart can be a very real struggle if our focus is on the problem and not on God who is our problem solver. I finally realized that fear was manipulating my faith and trust in God, so now my efforts go to redirecting my focus on Him and His Word. Only then is it possible to find peace, comfort, and direction in a world that has been turned up-side-down.

Recently, I heard a powerful testimony of faith and trust in God from a husband and father in his mid-thirties who owned a very successful business. He began experiencing alarming symptoms that resulted in the diagnosis of a glioblastoma (terminal brain cancer that offers no hope for recovery).

Given this devastating news, this young father chose to live life to the fullest. He sold his business so he could spend quality time with his wife and children, embrace activities as a family, and enjoy his passion for horticulture. His life became fuller and spiritually richer than previously, and as months passed, his faith and trust in the Lord grew exponentially. The forecast of his demise morphed into a miraculous six years, and he is now cancer free.

Fear strangles hope, trust, and faith. It creates scary scenarios that paralyze the mind with negative and unfruitful thoughts of what might happen, thus sabotaging peace, joy, faith, and trust in God. If you struggle with fear, know that you are in good company with several men of the Bible. One such man was Moses.

The Lord God told Moses to speak to Pharaoh, but Moses, fearing retribution from Pharaoh, offered many excuses of why he was not the right man. However, the Lord reassured Moses that He would give him strength to carry out the mission and would have his brother, Aaron, help with communication. Moses then confidently faced Pharaoh ten different times with threats of plagues. The last plague, which was the death of every first-born male of Egypt, included the death of Pharaoh’s son. This caused him to drive the Israelites out of Egypt (Exodus 3:9-11; 4:10-14).

Another great man that God used was the Prophet Elijah whom God called to oppose the wicked King Ahab and bring revival to the land. Elijah saw himself as the lone defender of God, so he defeated the prophets of Baal on Mt. Carmel, and 450 false prophets were put to death. But that victory was overshadowed by Ahab’s wicked and murderous wife, Queen Jezebel, who wanted Elijah dead for ordering the killing of her prophets (I Kings 18).

Elijah fled into the wilderness where he became so discouraged that he told God, “… take away my life, for I am no better than my fathers” (I Kings 19:4). The Lord then sent an angel to bring Elijah food and drink. After rest and nourishment, Elijah traveled forty days and forty nights to meet with the LORD on Mount Horeb (a.k.a. Mount Sinai where Moses met God). There, he was given further instructions.

No doubt that during his long and arduous trek, Elijah used that time to pray and seek God. When we are in a difficult situation that causes fear and uncertainty, God encourages us to go directly to Him in prayer as did Elijah (Kings 19:6-16).

There are many other examples of people who became fearful, but we cannot ignore the disciples, who ate, slept, traveled, sat under Jesus’ teaching, and witnessed many miracles. Yet when Jesus was arrested, they scattered and went into hiding. And Peter, who had passionately told Jesus he would die for Him, denied knowing Him three times. It would be during the 40 days the disciples spent with Jesus after His resurrection that their hearts would burn with new faith, purpose, and direction (Acts 1-2). And just before His ascension into heaven, He would leave them with instructions.

Has God spoken instructions that you feel unqualified to accomplish? I experienced fear and hesitancy and argued with God when He instructed me to lead worship (which I had never done). Then again when he called me to write, I felt totally inadequate. However, I chose to trust and believe God. And in that obedience, He revealed talent and gifting that He had placed within me long before I was born (Jeremiah 1:5).

God, The Creator, knows us better than we know ourselves. He gave each person unique gifts and talents, but often the fear of failure, our insecurities, and the fear of looking foolish can impede the ability to trust and obey God. However, if we resist fear, walk in faith, and trust Him, our act of obedience will trump fear and draw blessings to our lives so that we can bless others.

PRAYER: FATHER, my desire is to be obedient to You and to Your will. Help me walk this journey with You as I faithfully read Your Word and discern Your truths against the world’s false narratives. Forgive me for allowing fear to control my decisions and give me courage to trust and do those things that You ask of me. In Jesus’ name, amen.

WHOM SHALL I SERVE

It is impossible to walk in obedience to God’s will and purposes if we serve our own fleshly desires. We find a perfect example in the story of Achen, who made the unfortunate choice of choosing the world’s offerings over the will and purposes of God.

The Israelites had faithfully followed the Lord’s command and experienced great victory and blessing when Achen and Joshua led them in the destruction of pagan Jericho. But in doing so, God warned that anyone taking spoils from Jericho would “make the camp of Israel liable to destruction and bring trouble on it” (Joshua 6:18-19 NIV).

Achen, “the troubler of Israel, broke faith in the matter of the devoted thing” (I Chronicles 2:7 ESV). And in defiance of God’s command to take nothing from the wicked city of Jericho, He kept a robe, two hundred shekels of silver, and a fifty-shekel bar of gold, and hid all in a hole he had dug within his tent (Joshua 6:19).

We cannot serve both God and our own fleshly desires. “No one can serve two masters; for either he will hate the one and love the other, or else he will be loyal to the one and despise the other” (Matthew 6:24-26 NKJV). Jesus was equating money with the world. Thus, we cannot serve God and the world that constantly calls to us with every form of temptation. The heart must choose what it will serve, and Achen chose poorly.

Achan kept his theft a secret until Israel was defeated at Ai, a small city that should have been easily conquered without Israel suffering casualties. God then revealed to Joshua the cause for their defeat and the loss of 36 men. Aiken admitted his sin, and he and his family and everything he owned were destroyed at God’s command (Joshua 7:25-26).  

Achan was not the only one who sinned. Joshua, who had sought God in defeating Jericho did not pray and ask God for direction before attacking Ai. To his regret, he had decided in his own heart that Ai was an easy victory, so why confer with God. Had Joshua prayed first, he would have learned that there was sin within the Israelites’ camp, and he would not have engaged in battle until he dealt with the source of that sin.

God had a plan and a purpose for Achan. And before we were born, He established a plan for each of us. He dispensed special gifts and talents uniquely designed for every person (Jeremiah 1:5). For He says, “I know the thoughts that I think toward you… thoughts of peace and not of evil, to give you a future and a hope. Then you will call upon Me and go and pray to Me, and I will listen to you” (Jeremiah 29:11 NKJV).

If we ignore God and refuse to seek Him in prayer for His will and purposes, we are rejecting His blessings, joy, entitlements, protection, peace, and fulfillment of our appointed destiny. Sadly, Achen’s lust for riches cost him his life, the lives of his family, and God’s destiny for all of them.

Avoidance of God does not negate the truth that He is always with us. “The eyes of the LORD are everywhere, keeping watch on the wicked and the good” (Proverbs 15:3 NIV). God sees, hears, and knows our every thought, all that we have done, the choices we have made, and those plans to be made. Jesus said, “…surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age” (Matthew 28:20 NIV).

God knew that we could never “work” our way to heaven, so He provided a better way through His Son Jesus Christ, who in complete obedience to His Father, willingly sacrificed His life and paid a debt that we could never pay. His sacrifice opened the path for all to receive forgiveness and a life of promise and fulfillment. However, to take advantage of that great gift, there must be repentance and a turning away from disobeying God and His Word. Only then can heaven’s door open to those who surrender their will and heart to God who created them.

Most can admit that this earthly life is not always a bed of roses, but God can bring the sweet fragrance of hope, love, and blessings— even in the difficulties. He has all ability to help us overcome failure, hurt, pain, and disappointment. We might be able to hide our private lives and sins from the world, but we cannot hide from God.

Those who desire change and release from the things that hinder, enslave, and torment, must be willing to repent for their rebellion and disobedience. That repentance is then followed by surrendering their life and will to the capable hands of their heavenly Father. He then takes that repentant and willing person from their present circumstances and transform their life to what He intended for them.

Jesus said, “The thief (Satan) comes only to steal and kill and destroy. I came that they may have life and have it abundantly” (John 10:10 ESV). God desires to bless and see lives lived according to His wonderful purposes. But we can only receive all that He has for us when we ask ourselves four basic questions:

1. Do I trust God with my life?

2. Do I seek God’s will and not my own?

3. Am I content in whatever circumstances I find myself?

4. Is God’s Word and prayer central to my life?

 If you are unable to answer “yes” to these questions then you might want to pray:

PRAYER: Father, I have always followed my own will—leaving a trail of regrets behind. I have blamed You for things that were the result of my choices. Forgive me for not praying and seeking You and Your will. I thank you for Your Son, Jesus Christ, who without sin, willingly died for me and rose again to victory. Today, I choose to have a clean slate and turn from my rebellious ways and surrender all that I am to You. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

GOD—ENCOURAGER & PROTECTOR

It is easy to become discouraged when we see things happening in this world that make no logical sense. But we can be confident that God is our rescuer, for He is in control and wants us encouraged, trusting, and filled with faith.

When I think about encouragement and trust, Gideon is the first person in the Bible that comes to mind, because God sent His Messenger to him with a word of hope and encouragement. God rescues and sends hope and encouragement...if we listen, trust, and obey.

The Israelites did not listen to God and did evil in His sight by worshipping other gods, so for seven years God gave them over to the oppressive Midianites. The Israelites built shelters in mountain clefts and caves. Life for them was hard, because when they planted crops, the Midianites, Amalekites, and other eastern peoples invaded and plundered their land.

The Midianites, who once worshipped God, began worshipping other gods, so relations between the Israelites soured. The Midianites then joined forces with the Moabites to hire Balaam (a wicked prophet) to curse Israel. Later, Israel fell into idolatry and sexual sin with Moabite women (Judges 6:22;25). This seems to be the pattern of our world with apostasy increasing as many are enticed by evil purveyors of perversion, deception, and worldly pleasure.

The Midianites camped on the Israelites land and ravaged and destroyed their crops, sparing not a living thing. The land and the Israelites became so impoverished that they cried out for the Lord’s help (Judges 6:4-6).

How many criminals and illegals have entered the United States and set up tents and squalors on private property, public sidewalks—forcing both big and small businesses to close. They have taken over parks, and other public areas, thereby, destroying cities’ economic and tourist revenue and raising the crime rate.

The Israelites cried out to the Lord, so He sent them a prophet, who said, “I brought you up out of Egypt (bondage), out of the land of slavery (no freedom). I rescued you from the hand of the Egyptians (worshippers of many deities). And I delivered you from the hand of all your oppressors; I drove them out before you and gave you their land. I said to you, ‘I am the Lord your God; do not worship the gods of the Amorites, in whose land you live.’ But you have not listened to me” (Vs. 7-10).

Today, God is saying to His Church, “You have fallen away from My Word. Did I not say, ‘You shall have no other gods before Me’” (Exodus 20:3 NKJV). Therefore, “Do not love the world or the things in the world. If anyone loves the world, the love of the Father is not in him. For all that is in the world—the desires of the flesh and the desires of the eyes and pride of life—is not from the Father but is from the world. And the world is passing away along with its desires, but whoever does the will of God abides forever” (1 John 2:15-17 ESV).

The angel of the Lord then came and sat down under an oak tree where Gideon was threshing wheat. He then shocked Gideon by saying, “The Lord is with you, mighty warrior.” Gideon did not see himself as a mighty warrior, so the Lord then said, “Go in the strength you have and save Israel out of Midian’s hand. Am I not sending you?” Gideon did not know that God had placed within him an unrealized strength that would come with trust and obedience (Vs. 11-12).

God has placed within each one of us an unrealized strength to do what He calls us to do for His kingdom. Our joy comes in trusting and obeying Him.

Gideon is still doubting his ability and questions God, “Pardon me, my Lord, but how can I save Israel? My clan is the weakest in Manasseh, and I am the least in my family. The Lord answered, “I will be with you, and you will strike down all the Midianites, leaving none alive” (Judges 6:15-16). The Lord reassured him and said, “Peace! Do not be afraid. You are not going to die” (vs. 23). When God tells us to follow His instructions, we can be confident that He is with us and is in control.

That night Gideon followed God’s instructions and tore down his father’s altar to Baal and cut down the Asherah pole (the pagan goddess Asherah). Then he built a proper altar to the Lord (vs. 25-26). We can be encouraged and confident that the Lord God is our refuge and strength, a present help in trouble. Therefore, we need not fear (Psalm 46:1-2).

The following morning, when the people saw what had been done, they demanded Gideon’s death, but God protected him (Vs. 28). Many of today’s Christians, who are obedient to God’s Word and speak truth, are being persecuted, but God is with them.

“Now all the Midianites, Amalekites and other eastern peoples joined forces. But the Spirit of the Lord came on Gideon, and he blew a trumpet, summoning the Abiezrites to follow him. His call to arms went throughout Manasseh, Asher, Zebulun, and Naphtali, so that they too went up to meet them” (vs. 33-35). God always responds when we respond to Him in obedience.

If my people, which are called by my name, shall humble themselves, and pray, and seek my face, and turn from their wicked ways; then will I hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin, and will heal their land (2 Chronicles 7:14). God was always calling Israel to return to Him, and He has been calling America for the last 60 years to repent and turn to Him.

Early in the morning, the Lord told Gideon that he had too many men. “I cannot deliver Midian into their hands, or Israel would boast against Me. Anyone who trembles with fear may turn back and leave Mount Gilead.” So, 22,000 men left, and 10,000 remained. But the Lord said to Gideon, “There are still too many men. Take them down to the water, and I will thin them out...” (Judges 7:2-3).

Gideon obeyed and took the men to the water. There the Lord said, “Separate those who lap the water with their tongues as a dog laps from those who kneel to drink.” Three hundred of them drank and lapped from cupped hands. All the rest got on their knees to drink (with faces in the water). So, the Lord told Gideon, “With the 300 men that lapped I will save you and give the Midianites into your hands. Let all the others go home” (Judges 7:4-6).

Why was it so important to take only those who cupped their hands? Cupping their hands allowed them to be vigilant and aware of their surroundings and an approaching enemy. Those who placed their faces in the water would easily be surprised and overtaken by an enemy. “Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil walks about like a roaring lion, seeking whom he may devour” (I Peter 5:8 KJV).

God has his reasons for everything that He does and requires of us, even when it may seem foolish. Gideon did not see himself as a man of valor, but he trusted God to rescue them. His obedience brought victory so that all his enemies were destroyed.

Whether we believe it or not, we are in an escalating spiritual battle between good and evil. But God is ready to rescue those who obey and place their trust in Him as did Gideon.

PRAYER: FATHER, thank you that You protect and encourage those who listen and obey Your voice. Even if we feel like Gideon who did not see himself as a mighty man of valor, we can do all things through Christ who strengthens us. In Jesus’ name, amen.

Image courtesy of Jeff Jacobs from Pixabay

DARKNESS AND WICKEDNESS REIGN

The United States is experiencing an increasing epidemic of apostasy (the abandonment of belief in God and His resurrected Son, Jesus Christ), while the growth of Christianity is exploding in other nations around the world.

How did this nation that was founded on godly principles stray so far from the truth of God’s Word? Patrick Henry, a Founding Father, said "…this great nation was founded, not by religionists, but by Christians, not on religions, but on the Gospel of Jesus Christ.

With great generosity, the United States has always welcomed and extended freedom to all to practice their faith without interference. Sadly, each day, freedom to practice the Christian faith is being strangled. Not only is Christianity being challenged and silenced, but it is under constant attack by an immoral society.

Pew Research documented that Christianity in America has been steadily declining while there has been a significant increase in witchcraft and people identifying as “religiously unaffiliated” or “nones.” So, what are “nones?”

“Nones” are a rapidly growing group of Americans who do not identify with any religion. Sadly, many people who once identified as “Christians,” either denominational or non-denominational, have become nones, because they question the Bible’s authenticity.

Students are being indoctrinated with a calculated panacea promising a more equitable and better world through socialism. According to Pew Research, 70 to 88 percent of college freshmen leave their faith after completing their first year.

Sin and unbelief contaminated humanity when Adam and Eve believed Satan, the father of lies. Their fall in the Garden made this world a battleground between the Prince of Peace (Jesus) and the “god of this world” (Satan) Since their fall the world experiences daily conflict between good and evil (Genesis 1:26-27; 2 Corinthians 4:4; Romans 8:20-22).

Satan is still lying and continuing his deadly mission to convince people that God is callous, untrustworthy, and a withholder of good things. In fact, Satan is doing such a great job of deceiving people that there are those who once followed Christ but now believe the Bible to be nothing more than fables and misguided truths. “Furthermore, just as they did not think it worthwhile to retain the knowledge of God, so God gave them over to a depraved mind, so that they do what ought not to be done” (Romans 1:28 NIV).

Jesus addressed the Pharisees when they challenged His deity and His Word, “Why is My language (My Word) not clear to you? Because you are unable to hear what I say. You belong to your father, the devil, and you want to carry out your father’s desires. He was a murderer from the beginning, not holding to the truth, for there is no truth in him. When he lies, he speaks his native language, for he is a liar and the father of lies. Yet because I tell the truth, you do not believe Me! Can any of you prove Me guilty of sin? If I am telling the truth, why don’t you believe Me? Whoever belongs to God hears what God says. The reason you do not hear is that you do not belong to God” (John 8:43-47). Today, Jesus is still saying that those who do not believe God’s inspired Word, do not belong to Him.

The Apostle John tells us that some followers asked Jesus, “What sign then will You give that we may see it and believeYou? What will You do?” (John 6:30 NIV) Jesus answered: “I am the bread of life. Whoever comes to Me will never go hungry, and whoever believes in Me will never be thirsty. But as I told you, you have seen Me and still you do not believe. All those the Father gives Me will come to Me, and whoever comes to Me I will never drive away. For I have come down from heaven not to do My will but to do the will of Him who sent me. And this is the will of Him who sent Me, that I shall lose none of all those He has given Me but raise them up at the last day. For My Father’s will is that everyone who looks to the Son and believes in Him shall have eternal life, and I will raise them up at the last day” (John 6:35-40 NIV).

These followers had witnessed Jesus feed thousands, saw miraculous healings, and listened to His teachings, yet they rejected His Word and departed to maintain their old beliefs and practices (John 6:9-14; John 6:2; John 6:60). This would be a foreshadowing of the human heart’s inclination to look for signs and reject the truth of God’s Word.  

The truth of God’s Word requires commitment to believe, rather than looking for signs of proof as the early followers did. Sadly, to this day, some find it difficult to accept God’s Word as infallible, because His unerring Word speaks hard truths that are the antithesis of the world’s current standards and beliefs. 

From Genesis to Revelation, God has been calling people to return to Him and surrender all to Him. Despite His call, our world has become darker and more wicked—like the days of Noah. Sin, violence, and every kind of despicable perversion is practiced, accepted, and legislated.

God’s Word warns us that there will be terrible times in the last days. People will be lovers of themselves, lovers of money, boastful, proud, abusive, disobedient to their parents, ungrateful, unholy, without love, unforgiving, slanderous, without self-control, brutal, not lovers of the good, treacherous, rash, conceited, lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of God—having a form of godliness but denying its power. Have nothing to do with such people” (2 Timothy 3:1-5 NKJV). This is certainly a reflection of today’s world.

We all reach an age when we make moral choices to either follow our own inclinations or to seek God’s leadership (Joshua 24:15). God promises that those who seek Him with all their heart, will find Him (Jeremiah 29:13).

God had placed a choice before us: do we continue following our own ways, or do we surrender all to His will? Faith and trust in God brings victory over the god of this world, for everyone born of God overcomes the world (I John 5:4).

Whether people believe it or not, we are living the Bible in real time while God is overseeing every event, person, and thing in the entire universe. Therefore, we must surrender all by placing our confidence and faith in Him.

Surrendering can be compared to a house that has many rooms. The living room, kitchen, and bathroom are beautifully kept so when visitors come, they receive a favorable impression. But then there are other rooms where the doors are kept closed because things are a mess. That is a picture of our lives. We show our best side to the world but keep those other areas hidden. However, they are not hidden from God. He is waiting for us to open those rooms, so He can help us clean up those areas that are robbing us of His truth and blessings.  

PRAYER: FATHER, I ask your forgiveness for making decisions before seeking You in prayer and for not making Your Word a priority. Help me to trust and surrender all to You. As this world grows darker and increasingly evil, I realize that I need Your help now more than ever before. Each day, give me strength and faith to trust You and to surrender my will and all that I am into Your capable hands. In Jesus’ name, amen.  

Photo courtesy of thunderstorm gfa3bbe

THE SECRET PLACE

He who dwells in the secret place of the Most High Shall abide under the shadow of the almighty. (Psalm 91:1) 

Life is uncertain as we watch the world spin out of control. But Jesus said, “I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or drink; or about your body, what you will wear. Is not life more than food, and the body more than clothes? Look at the birds of the air; they do not sow or reap or store away in barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not much more valuable than they? Can any one of you by worrying add a single hour to your life?” (Matthew 6:26-34 NIV).

Like this picture of a child holding a Bible, God wants us to be like a child who is inquisitive and always searching and asking questions. In all the uncertainties of life, there is one place where we can find answers and receive comfort and security—the secret place.

Psalm 91 is a beautiful psalm that I have read many times; However, recently the words dwell, secret place, abide, shadow and Most High seemed to leap off the page to invite further study. Though I understood where to find the secret place, I wanted to research these highlighted words for a deeper meaning of what God is conveying. So, let us begin with the word dwell.

The Hebrew word for dwell is “yashhab,” which is to sit down, inhabit, and remain. The English definition is to reside, stay, and have a home. God extends the invitation to inhabit (live in) His presence where there is fullness of joy (Psalm 16:11).

No matter the circumstances, God is always available and ready and willing to listen. No sin, disagreement with God, anger, or lack of understanding should prevent anyone from seeking His presence in the secret place. There is nothing that we cannot discuss with Him, for He invites us to come and reason together (Isaiah 1:18). He wants to be the place where we find safety to ask difficult questions, share feelings, concerns, fears, hopes, joys, gratitude and even express anger, disappointment, or frustration.

Jesus taught the importance of seeking God, when He came to the small town of Bethany, just two miles from Jerusalem. It was there that Martha invited Him to share a meal with her sister, Mary, and their brother, Lazarus. As Martha was busily preparing the meal, Mary sat at the feet of Jesus soaking in every word that He spoke. “But Martha was distracted with much serving, and she approached Him and said, ‘Lord, do You not care that my sister has left me to serve alone? Therefore, tell her to help me.’ But Jesus answered and said, ‘Martha, Martha, you are worried and troubled about many things. But one thing is needed, and Mary has chosen that good part (My Word), which will not be taken away from her’” (Luke 10:40-42 NKJV).

The fact that Jesus said, “Martha, Martha” reveals His tender compassion towards her as He gently explained the importance of abiding with Him in the secret place. Yes, preparing a meal for the body is important. But Jesus was lovingly communicating to Martha that the greater importance is feeding the spirit and soul with His Word. For it is in that secret place of communing with the Lord that we are spiritually protected, nourished, and empowered through His Word to move in a faith that overcomes life’s obstacles.  

So, what is the secret place? In the Old Testament, the term “secret place” comes from the Hebrew root word cether, which means “to hide or be concealed.” Several references are made in the Bible regarding the “secret place.” Other references are shelter, covering, or dwelling. David said in Psalm 32:7 that God was his hiding place where He could dwell in comfort and protection. Throughout Psalms, David reveals the numerous times he found shelter when fellowshipping with God in the secret place.

God’s title, Most High, levels every threat and reveals God as Creator and the supreme power over the world and the universe. His title is a reminder that He is more than capable of accomplishing all His promises and all that He plans, because there is no force that can stop Him.

Now we come to the word abide. In the context of what is being said, the word means to stay and to hold on. No other place can we find comfort, rest, and safety then to abide (stay) in the presence of the Lord. Because those who abide with Him will come to know Him more deeply and intimately as they rest and find shelter “under the shadow of the Almighty.”

Shadow refers to “a hiding place, covering, or protection. As we dwell under the shadow of the Almighty we live under His promises and protection. For it is in God’s presence that we find security, guidance, protection, and care.

Who could imagine that one sentence could carry such significant information about the goodness of God and what He wants for us. Therefore, we can be encouraged and confident in these troubling times, that God is available at any time of the day or night and that He is always with us. Therefore, we are to “Be strong! Be courageous! Do not be afraid of them! For the Lord your God will be with you. He will neither fail you nor forsake you” (Deuteronomy 31:6 TLB).

The question might be, “How do we stay in that secret place under the shadow of the Almighty?” We do it through prayer (conversation with God), reading His Word, listening for His still small voice to speak into our spirit and by conversing with Him as though He is physically present. Daily, we are invited to the secret place where we can rest the mind, body, and soul and give all cares and concerns to Him.

Again, let us read: He who dwells in the secret place of the Most High shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty (Psalm 91:1)

Now, with a deeper understanding of the message of Psalm 91:1, read the following:

Those who live and reside in the presence of God, the Creator, will find rest and support as they take hold of His promises and protection.

PRAYER: FATHER, remind me each day that You are patiently waiting for me to come to the safety of the dwelling place of Your presence. There, despite life’s storms that daily challenge and at times wear me down, You are ready to strengthen and commune with me. For it is in that intimate time with You and Your Word, that fear and worry are vanquished. And I find strength, comfort, peace, direction, and shelter from the storm of adversity (Isaiah 41:10). In Jesus’ name, amen.

Let me clearly state that this is NOT an indictment of people who have tattoos. Many of my family members and friends have tattoos. Most people who have tattoos have simply followed the current culture of tattooing. But then there are those sincere Christians who erroneously justify tattooing with the following two scriptures:

“…and He has on His robe and on His thigh a name written: KING OF KINGS AND LORD OF LORDS” (Revelation 19:16 NKJV).

“See, I have engraved you on the palms of My hands…” (Isaiah 49:16 NIV).

Listed below are seven facts that reveal the importance of knowing biblical Jewish history which explains these two scriptures.

1.  Scripture states actual facts and also uses symbolism. However, many people interpret all Scripture literally, according to modern day behaviors, practices, and the world’s system. For that reason, underlining historical meanings and interpretations found in the Old Testament that relate to the New Testament are missed. Therefore, some falsely rationalize that the meanings of the words, written and engraved, indicate tattoos. However, the Book of Leviticus discredits those suppositions.

2.   Regarding—engraved you on palm of My hand—the word “engraved” in Hebrew is Chaqaq, which means to cut out; in English, it means to be cut or carved, permanently fixed in the memory, or a record. The nails driven into Jesus’ hands carved out His flesh and bone. Those scars are a constant reminder and an eternal and fixed record of every person for whom He died. We know this, because He said, “Fear not, for I have redeemed you [by My shed blood]; I have called you by name; you are mine” (Isaiah 43:1 ESV). He knows your name, and He is not “man” who forgets.

3.    In exploring these scriptures, we discover that in ancient biblical times, a king would be covered with a robe that had his title woven or embroidered into the garment (Psalm 93:1; 2 Chronicles 18:9; Revelation 19:16). And his title was also engraved upon his blade, its hilt, or scabbard, which hung from a band at the waist to thigh level. A sword placed over the thigh symbolized strength and power (Exodus 32:27; Judges 3:16, 21; Psalms 45:3). So, the king’s sword and robe that draped over his thigh displayed not only his strength and power, but it spoke of his sovereignty over his kingdom. When Jesus returns as THE SOVEREIGN KING, all mankind will see His robe draped over His thigh that will read: KING OF KINDS AND LORD OF LORDS.

4.   Jesus honored the Mosaic Law which forbid tattooing. “Do not cut your bodies for the dead or put tattoo marks on yourselves. I am the LORD” (Leviticus 19:28). The early Israelites were surrounded by the pagan Canaanite culture that tattooed themselves to appease their gods and show their commitment to those deities. Tattoos were considered pagan, idol worship, and a desecration of the human body that God created in His image. Even today, many cultures embrace tattooing as a form of demon worship. And many see a tattoo as a visual expression of their beliefs, personality, and even in memoriam.

5.   Jesus, a Jew, carefully followed the Mosaic Law, which was given to Moses on Mt. Sinai. This law had several prohibitions, one being the cutting or marking the body. Secondly, for thousands of years and even today, Jews follow tzniut (too-ute) which is modesty in dress. For Jesus to expose His bare thigh, sporting a tattoo, would be a sin against the Mosaic Law and tzniut. And Scripture repeatedly affirms that Jesus never broke any Old or New Testaments laws. So, we can be assured that Jesus would never violate His own Mosaic Law.

6.   Many argue that the Mosaic Law can be ignored because it is Old Testament. However, Jesus said, “Do not think that I came to destroy the Law or the Prophets, [written in the Old Testament]. I did not come to destroy but to fulfil. For assuredly, I say to you, till heaven and earth pass away, one jot (what is written down) or one tittle (smallest word) will by no means pass from the law till all is fulfilled. Whoever, therefore, breaks one of the least of these commandments and teaches men so, shall be called the least in the kingdom of heaven; but whoever does and teaches them, he shall be called great in the kingdom of heaven.” (Matthew 5:17-19 NKJV).

7.   The Apostle Paul tells us in 1 Corinthians 6:19-20, “Do you not know that your bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you received from God? You are not your own; you were bought at a price. Therefore, honor God with your bodies.” Then Paul further urges that “…in view of God’s mercy, offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God—this is your true and proper worship. Do not conform to the pattern of this world but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—His good, pleasing, and perfect will” (Romans 12:1-2). And it is in reading the life-changing truth of God’s Word, that the mind is renewed to a place of desiring God’s will.

The question remains: Does God approve or disapprove of tattooing? It depends on the intention of the heart. “For the Lord sees not as man sees; man looks on the outward appearance, but the Lord looks on the heart” (1 Samuel 16:7). Therefore, Christians must ask if their tattoos are drawing people to Christ or to themselves. Although God would have us not deface our bodies because we are made in His image, He graciously gives us all freedom to choose.

PRAYER: FATHER, I thank you for the amazing freedom that You give me to choose. I pray that You will place within my heart the desire to follow You, Your will, and Your purposes in all my choices and decisions. In Jesus’ name, amen.

Photo Courtesy of Garageband from Pixabay

BE CAREFUL WHAT YOU SPEAK

The permeating pollution of profanity has become common place in our culture because society’s comfort level of what is tolerated has shifted. Expletives, once banned in public, are now unbridled. However, I grew up in an era and in an environment where cursing was never heard in the home, in public, on television, or in movies.

I have heard the argument, “Times have changed, so what’s the big deal?” Unfortunately, the acceptance and use of uncivil, foul language is a sign of just how far our culture has not only changed but has radically morally declined.

The mouth is a sin-barometer that reveals what is stored within the heart. For the heart is the reservoir for good and evil. That which is in the heart overflows into our speech.

Profanity is defined as blasphemous or obscene language—an expletive, curse word, and the unrestrained use of the “f”-word. Like foul water gushing from an open cistern, obscene words and God’s holy name are spewed as a curse in everyday speech, in television shows, movies, in public, and in casual conversations. Those offensive words grieve and anger God and are an affront to His hearing.

Most offensive to God is when His name is used as a curse word or in ways not associated with worship, praise, and prayer. The Third Commandment cautions, “Thou shalt not take the name of the Lord thy God in vain” (Exodus 20:7). For the LORD will not hold those guiltless who take His name in vain. For He says, “The mouth that speaks lewd things, I hate. From the same mouth come blessing and cursing. My brothers, these things ought not to be so” (James 3:10; Proverbs 7:13).

God takes this so seriously that He warns, “…on the day of judgment, people will give account for every careless word they speak” (Matthew 12:36). He also warns, “You must not swear falsely by My name, so as to profane the name of your God; I am the Lord” (Leviticus 19:12)

Death and life are in the power of the tongue, and those who love it will eat its fruits, because the words we speak can become a snare to us (Proverbs 18:21; 6:2). For the lips reveal what is in the heart. The words we speak will either summon victory or invite defeat. God said, “I create the fruit of your lips” (Isaiah 57:19). What kind of fruit is coming forth from today’s mouths?

Jesus said that is not what goes into the mouth that defiles a person; it is what comes out of the mouth that defiles and reveals what is in their heart. For that reason, the tongue must be controlled so that evil and deceit are not spoken (Matthew 15:11; Psalm 34:21). James firmly warns, “Those who consider themselves religious and yet do not keep a tight rein on their tongues deceive themselves, and their religion is worthless” (James 1:26 NIV).  

The question to be asked is, “What drives a person to curse?” God’s Word reveals the answer by cautioning us to rid ourselves of sinful, unrestrained emotions that erupt into anger, rage, malice, slander, and filthy language. No corrupt talk is to come out of a mouth but only speaking what is good for building up and giving grace to those who hear (Colossians 3:8; Ephesians 4:29). Then God’s Word instructs that those who desire to love life and see good days must keep their tongue from evil and their lips from lying (I Peter 3:10).

The Apostle Paul urged followers of Christ, “I appeal to you, therefore brothers, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable to God, which is your spiritual worship” (Romans 12:1). “Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing, you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect” (Romans 12:2) And how do we renew our mind? Renewal comes by reading and studying the Bible and praying.

God calls those who speak expletives not to be conformed to the world’s standards but to stop sinning. For both saltwater and freshwater cannot come from the same spring. Thus, rather than being emotionally driven and reacting negatively to a situation, there must be a quick response to hear, be slow to speak, and slow to anger (James 1:19).

Jesus asked, “Why do you entertain evil thoughts in your hearts?” (Matthew 9:4) It is impossible to think on what is true and excellent, if the mind and heart have been indoctrinated by movies, television programs, music, and books that unashamedly spew profanity, and showcase violence, witchcraft, lust, and every kind of perversion.

Proverbs 4:20-24 clearly sets the boundaries for humanity:

“…pay attention to what I say;
    turn your ear to My Words.
Do not let them out of your sight,
    keep them within your heart;
for they are life to those who find them
    and health to one’s whole body.
 Above all else, guard your heart,
    for everything you do flows from it.
 Keep your mouth free of perversity;
    keep corrupt talk far from your lips.”

“Finally, whatever things are true, whatever things are honest, whatever things are just, whatever things are pure, whatever things are lovely, whatever things are of good report, if there is any virtue, and if there is any praise, think on these things.” (Philippians 4:8 MEV)

PRAYER: FATHER, forgive me if (or when) I said words that offended You. Help me to be mindful of what I speak, knowing that You hear and care about every spoken word. Help me to speak only what is wholesome, edifying, and gives grace to the listener. In Jesus’ name, amen.

THE WAY

John 3:16 was one of the first of many verses I memorized as a new Christian: “For God so loved the world that He gave His only Son (Jesus) that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have eternal life” (NIV). While meditating on this short but very significant verse, I marveled at God’s magnanimous love towards humanity. His desire to save the human race from certain spiritual death, caused Him to send His Son to the world through the virgin birth. The infant became a man yet fully God, who brought us eternal life through faith in Him. Remarkably, 700 years  before the birth of Jesus Christ, His suffering, and death, the Hebrew prophet, Isaiah, had accurately prophesied these events:

“But, oh, how few believe it! Who will listen? To whom will God reveal His saving power? In God’s eyes He (Jesus) was like a tender green shoot, sprouting from a root in dry and sterile ground. But in our eyes there was no attractiveness at all, nothing to make us want Him. We despised Him and rejected Him—a man of sorrows, acquainted with bitterest grief. We turned our backs on Him and looked the other way when He went by. He was despised, and we didn’t care.

It was our grief He bore our sorrows that weighed Him down. Yet we considered Him punished by God, stricken by Him, and afflicted. But He was wounded and bruised for our sins. He was beaten that we might have peace; He was lashed—and we were healed! We—every one of us—have strayed away like sheep! We, who left God’s paths to follow our own. Yet God laid on Him the guilt and sins of every one of us!

He was oppressed, and He was afflicted, yet He never said a word. He was brought as a lamb to the slaughter; and as a sheep before her shearers is dumb, so He stood silent before the ones condemning Him. From prison and trial, they led Him away to His death. But who among the people of that day realized it was their sins that He was dying for—that He was suffering their punishment? He was buried like a criminal, put in a rich man’s grave; but He had done no wrong and had never spoken an evil word.

But it was the Lord’s good plan to bruise Him (Jesus) and fill Him with grief. However, when His soul has been made an offering for sin, then He shall have a multitude of children, many heirs. He shall live again, and God’s program shall prosper in His hands.  And when He sees all that is accomplished by the anguish of His soul, He shall be satisfied; and because of what He has experienced, My righteous Servant shall make many to be counted righteous before God, for He shall bear all their sins. Therefore, I will give Him the honors of one who is mighty and great because He has poured out His soul unto death. He was counted as a sinner, and He bore the sins of many, and He pled with God for sinners” (Isaiah 53:1-12 TLB).

Jesus was rejected then, and He is being rejected in this present age. Newsweek printed a 2020 survey reporting 52 percent of Americans say that Jesus is not God which validates Isaiah’s prophetic words, “… how few believe it! Who will listen?” The percentage of people who are turning away from Christianity continues to grow.

It is inconceivable that America, founded on Judeo-Christian values, has fallen so far away from the truth. Jesus warned that Satan, whom He called a liar, the father of lies, and the thief, “comes only to kill, steal, and destroy. But Jesus also said these encouraging words, “I have come that [you] may have life and have it to the full” (John 10:10 NIV).

Although many believe there are multiple paths to heaven, Jesus said, “I am the Way and the truth and the life. No man comes to the Father except through Me” (John 14:6). Jesus is the Way, and “…if you confess with your mouth the Lord Jesus and believe in your heart that God has raised Him from the dead, you will be saved (Romans 10:9 NKJV). This is such an amazing promise that God made to us. When thinking about Jesus’ suffering and His great sacrifice, how can we not surrender our lives to Him? 

I once wore the label of “Christian” with no idea of what that meant. My family and I seldom went to church, did not pray, and did not own a Bible. Then there are those who believe they are saved because they were baptized as an infant and raised by parents who demanded church attendance. I heard a pastor say that as a boy, his father required that they all attend church service every Sunday, yet neither his parents nor he and his two brothers had a relationship with Christ until a miracle took place and they surrendered their hearts to the Lord. Evangelist Billy Sunday said, “Going to church doesn’t make you a Christian any more than going to a garage makes you an automobile.” 

We live in a very fallen world that has convinced many people that good is bad and bad is good. Therefore, there is great confusion about numerous beliefs that only Scripture can clarify, because mankind, in its fallen state, wants to be the determiner of its destiny. And it all began in the Garden when God told Eve that if they ate the forbidden fruit they would die. So, Satan, the tempter, told Eve and Adam, who was with her, that they would surely not die but they would be like God. Yes, they would not die physically at that time, but they would die spiritually—a death that would cause separation from God for eternity (Genesis 3:1-5 NIV).

God loves us with a perfect love and declares, “I know the plans I have for you—plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future” (Jeremiah 29:11). For God is compassionate and gracious, slow to anger, abounding in love and faithfulness (Psalm 86:15).

“Because of His great love we are not consumed, for His compassions never fail. They are new every morning; great is [His] faithfulness” (Lamentations 3:22-23).

If you have never verbally committed your life to Christ, or maybe you would like to renew your relationship with Him, I encourage you to “confess with your mouth” the following prayer:

PRAYER: FATHER, Forgive me, for Your Word says that all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God. I believe that You sent Your Son, Jesus Christ, to this world to redeem mankind. I acknowledge and confess that Jesus was crucified, died, was buried, and rose from the dead on the third day. He now reigns in heaven and sits at Your right hand. Fill me with Your Holy Spirit that I may grow in truth and knowledge of You. Thank you that I am now a new creation in Christ, which allows me to know the fullness of Your love. In Jesus’ name, amen.

TWO PATHS

One of the first scriptures that I memorized was,“Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path” (Psalm 119:105 NKJV). However, until recently, I had taken this scripture at face value and never considered its deeper meaning.

When we look through both the Old and New Testaments we see many references to this scripture. David, in writing Psalm 119, was speaking to God when he first stated, “Your Word…”  We know that “In the beginning was the Word and the Word was with God and the Word was God” (John 1:1 KJV). Jesus, the incarnate Word, was with the Father from the beginning and became man to bring His Word to the earth.

David then tells God that His Word is a lamp to my feet. When we carry His Word, we carry Christ who is the light of the world. And it is our feet that carry and enable us to bring the good news of Christ to others. The prophet Isaiah said, “How beautiful on the mountains are the feet of him who brings good news, who proclaims peace, who brings good tidings, who proclaims salvation…” (Isiah 52:7 NKJV).

One hundred years later the prophet Nahum prophesied, “Look, there on the mountains, the feet of one who brings good news, who proclaims peace!” (Nahum 1:15 NIV). One thousand years later, the apostle Paul repeated, “How beautiful are the feet of those who bring good news!” (Romans 10:15 NIV). In other words, the feet represent the action of a person sharing the gospel with others.

Paul told us to put on the full armor of God. Of those six pieces of armor, we are to put on the “shoes of readiness” to carry the gospel of peace wherever we go (Ephesians 6:15). Jesus and His disciples walked many miles to share the Gospel’s good news.

Next, His Word is a light to our path, for “all the paths of the Lord are lovingkindness and truth to those who keep His covenant and His testimonies” (Psalm 25:10). He promises to lead us in paths we have not known and make darkness light before us and make the crooked places straight (Isiah 42:16). We are encouraged to consider and carefully watch the path of [our] feet, so that all [our] ways will be steadfast and sure (Proverbs 4:26). God lights the good path that He has chosen for us. A path of our own choosing is devoid of God’s light and leads to destruction (Matthew 7:13).

One of my favorite poems is “The Road Not Taken” by Robert Frost. In the poem he speaks of a road (path) that diverged into two. He tells the reader that he stood looking down both roads trying to choose which one to travel. He then decided to take the road "less traveled," a decision which "made all the difference." God has given us the freedom to choose between His path and our own path. Which of the two paths we choose will make all the difference.

PRAYER: FATHER, You gave mankind Your Son, Jesus—the Light of the world. The Light came into the world, but the people loved the darkness rather than the Light because their works were evil (John 3:19). Help me to stay on Your path, for You light the way and make the crooked places straight. In Jesus’ name, amen.

THE GOD WHO SEES...AND HEARS

How many can say that you experienced or are currently experiencing moments of praying and crying out to God for an answer? You have waited…and waited...and waited…for Him to respond. And that waiting has become painful as days have evolved into weeks and then into months and in some cases, those months have become years.

The most difficult part of waiting is walking in faith and continuing to trust in God’s purposes and timing. And often as time passes, there is questioning and doubting if God really cares or even hears our plea. Hagar, the slave of Sarai (Sarah), had the same questions in her heart.

Abraham’s wife, Sarai, was barren, so she gave her slave, Hagar, to Abraham to conceive a child. Hagar conceived quickly, and Sarai became jealous and treated Hagar so badly, that the pregnant and desperate Hagar fled into the wilderness to escape Sarai’s mistreatment (Genesis 16:4-7). m

The Angel of the Lord (Jesus before His incarnation) found Hagar near a spring in the desert. And He said, “Hagar, slave of Sarai, where have you come from, and where are you going?” She answered that she was running away from her mistress, Sarai. “Then the Angel of the Lord told her, “Go back to your mistress and submit to her.” Then the LORD told Hagar that He would increase her descendants so much that they would be too many to count (Genesis 16:9-10). After God had told her all things, she gave this name to the LORD: El Roi, “THE GOD WHO SEES ME” (16:13 NKJV).

Why did God tell Hagar to return to Sarai? It was for Hagar’s protection that God told her to return to Abraham's house. If she did not return, she and her unborn child would die in the wilderness. In Abraham's house, she would be covered by the blessing that was over the house of Abraham. And because of her obedience, she would find safety and protection, and God would fulfill His promise to Hagar to increase her descendants.

Often God calls us to either do or pass through difficult things that make no sense, but “…we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are called according to His purpose” (Romans 8:28 NKJV). Hagar’s encounter with God gave her peace that she could trust in the “God Who Sees Me.”

As with Hagar, when we face challenging circumstances, we can trust that God is always with us and find comfort in knowing that He will never leave nor forsake us when we seek Him with our whole heart. That requires total surrender to Him and to His will. If not, it is easy to become like the Israelites whose “love” for God was predicated on what God could do for them.

From Exodus through Judges, we see Israel crying out to the Lord and the Lord responding each time to their cries. And it was the Israelites’ chronic disobedience that continually opened a door to their enemies, who then pursued them. In fear, the Israelites would repent and cry out to God, and again He would come to their rescue. But their behavior always changed after God dealt with their enemies and they were safe. Their disregard for God’s goodness would lead them to return to their old ways of walking in rebellion and worshipping idols.

What is an idol? An idol is and image or representation of anything used as an object of worship. We make idols of people, pleasure, sports, electronics, work, money, success, our children, and anything else that takes priority in our lives. What we give the most attention to reveals the attitude of our hearts towards God who is the only One who can meet emotional, spiritual, and physical needs.

You might be saying, “I don’t worship idols!” Interestingly, the average American daily watches seven hours of screen time which includes social media channels, listening to podcasts, spending over four or more hours on mobiles, and the remainder on television which one or more are prominently displayed in almost every American home. For some, the TV is the first thing turned on in the morning and the last thing turned off at night. However, God is asking, “Why am I not the first whom you seek in the morning and the last with whom you fellowship with at night?”

Psalm 34:15 tells us that the eyes of the Lord are on the righteous and His ears are attentive to their cry. When the righteous cry for help, the Lord hears and delivers them out of all their troubles (Psalm 34:17). Before they call, God says, “I will answer; while they are yet speaking, I will hear (Isaiah 65:24 (ESV). The Psalmist said, “In my distress I called upon the Lord; to my God I cried for help. From His temple He heard my voice, and my cry to Him reached His ears” (Psalm 18:6 ESV).

The great promise is that “If you seek Him, He will be found by you” (1 Chronicles 28:9). And when He is found, there is great reward, for whoever draws near to God and believes He exists, He rewards those who seek Him (Hebrews 11:6).

God is looking for people who desire a relationship with Him and are committed to seeking Him each day. Only then can we have confidence that He not only sees us, but He hears our every word, knows our every thought, and is always there to comfort and guide us.

PRAYER: FATHER, I am grateful that You care about every detail of my life for Your Word tells me that before You formed me in my mother’s womb, You knew me (Jeremiah 1:5). I am comforted in knowing that “[You] direct the steps of the godly. [You] delight in every detail of [my life]. Though [ I ] stumble, [ I ] will never fall, for [You hold me] by the hand” (Psalm 37:23-24). Help me to faithfully seek You. For I know that only in seeking You each day I will find the peace that I desire. In Jesus’ name, amen.

A GREAT ANNOUNCEMENT

Hello friends and family.

For those who follow my blog, I have a great announcement!  JOURNEY WITH GOD: A Compilation of Devotions and Prayers has been reduced from $11.99 to $4.81, which erases my profit, but I did not write this book with the intention of making money. For me, this is a ministry.

This book resulted from a 51-year journey with God and my desire to show others that God never fails us. He cares about every detail of our lives, and He has power to make a way where there appears to be no way. For real security and joy can only come in knowing God and His many wonderful ways in which He interacts and communicates with us. For that reason, I purchase books to always have for those occasions when God shows me that person who would benefit from my gifting of the book.

One example was when I was checking out at a Dollar Tree, and God put in my heart to go to my car and retrieve a copy of my book and give it to the cashier who checked me out. I did not know the woman and wondered if she would think I was forward and even crazy in telling her that I felt led by the Lord to give her the book.

I returned to the store with book in hand and waited for her to finish with her customers. I then approched her and said, “God put it on my heart to give you this book.” She looked at the cover and wrapped her arms around me and said, “This is an answer to prayer. I have been asking God to bring me encouragement and hope.” She later told me that the book had become a blessing and she was so very grateful that I had been obedient to the Lord’s nudging. For that reason, I ask that you prayerfully consider purchasing the book for yourself, a friend, or a family member who might need encouragement, hope — and in some instances, even a giggle.

If you do not have this book, it contains my personal journeys with God and His revelations and biblical truths that have blessed and developed my faith. Here is an abbreviated list of contents.

PART ONE: TRUTHS I HAVE LEARNED has seven stories, which readers have indicated, “Turn Lemons into Lemonade” to be one of their favorites.

PART TWO: BUILDING FAITH has six stories. Two days ago, a reader sent me a screen shot of a page under the chapter, “Persistent Prayer.” She wrote, “Thankful for this today.”

PART THREE: GROWING IN GOD has seven stories about personal experiences that taught me how to grow in faith and confidence in God.

PART FOUR: HEALING SPIRIT AND SOUL has seven stories about overcoming weariness, wilderness experiences, and recognizing the gifts within, and the hope and new-found joy that enables us to “Dance Down The Mountain.”

PART FIVE: LESSONS THROUGH CHILDREN AND ANIMALS. God uses nature, people, experiences, and animals to teach very valuable lessons. Many find “The “Yellow Rain Slicker” to be one of their favorites.

PART SIX: LESSONS IN NATURE. My personal favorite is the “Fly Swatter” followed by “The Light.”

PART SEVEN: GOD’S METAPHORS FOR LIFE. A pastor purchased the book just to find out “Who’s Your Talking Donkey.”

PART EIGHT: MIRACLES BIG AND SMALL. These are accounts of small and big miracles that I have experienced with one of my favorites being an encounter with “The Widow.”

If you choose to purchase this Word-supported book on Amazon, you can look it up by typing on Amazon’s search line, C. Joy Bollinger, and the book will pop up. Or if you are already logged onto sayitwithjoy.com simply click the link “About.” Then click “Buy,” which sends you directly to Amazon and my book. If you purchase and find JOURNEY WITH GOD a blessing, I would greatly appreciate you leaving a review on Amazon.

Thank you and blessings to all,

Joy