A LAMP UNTO MY FEET (Psalm 119:105)

In Everything You Do...

2010-01-16T18:29:00.002-05:00

For everything we do there is a motive behind it. The term "motive" in and of itself is not a bad word. Motive can be connected with good or evil, selfishness or self-giving. Early this week Haiti was hit hard by a 7+ earthquake. Suddenly the focus of the entire world was upon this little country that has had a long history of tragedy. And in the aftermath of this unfathomable tragedy, the human heart has been revealed again. From some came forth love and compassion for those who are going through unimaginable suffering. Hearts, arms and hands were opened to give to the need. Many responded through prayer; others opened their wallets to give; and others joined with a team to go and minister first-hand to any and all. Then there were others who poured forth statements of judgment, while at the same time hardening their hearts even more. Jesus said that even if all you can do is offer a "cup of water" to someone in need, you will not lose your reward. He also taught that we are to "love" even as our Heavenly Father loves; for He causes his sun and rain to fall equally on both the fields of the just and the unjust. We are to love "neighbor" as we love "self." The Apostle Paul said that in everything we do, we should do it for the Glory of God. This should be our sole motive.

Life Can Always Be Beautiful

2009-05-21T19:47:00.001-04:00

“As a man thinks in his heart…”

Recently I received a single sheet, “newsy-letter” from my denomination. There always seem to be some goooood tidbits, and this day was no exception.

It seems that the time had come for a 90+ year old widow to be placed in a residential assisted living facility. Her husband had passed away when he was 70, and she had lived alone since then. (I should mention that this woman was blind.)

When she arrived at her new place of residence, everyone there was so helpful. They had done everything to make her apartment comfortable and easily accessible. One of the workers escorted her to her room, and began to describe everything in detail. The lady politely interrupted and said, “You don’t have to tell me everything. It is just so beautiful!” The worker replied, “How can you say it is beautiful when you are blind and cannot see?” “I’ve learned to see everything this way. What I see with my heart I can think with my mind, replied the lady. It is much like depositing money into a bank account so you have something to draw upon later. In my case, I’m still depositing every day.”

Are you making good deposits daily against those days in later life when life might be less rosy?

Before You Comje Apart

2009-04-18T11:44:00.002-04:00

Mark 6:31 Then Jesus said, “Let’s go off by ourselves to a quiet place and rest awhile.”

We live in a world of noise. I believe that noise is the greatest distraction in the life of a Believer! It is also the greatest stress factor in the Believer’s life. But now I must pause to define my terminology. The noise I’m referring to is beyond that which Webster includes in his definition - including his synonyms: din, uproar, clamor, hubbub, and racket (these are definite stressors, but there is more).

In the setting that we find in our Scripture passage for today, Jesus was not trying to find a place to get away from the noise of airplanes, factories, sirens, horns, construction, rock concerts, radios and TVs + other electronic devices. I believe that we need to be looking within to the noises of the mind and emotions; the noises which are not perceived in the human ear; the noises that steal our peace and joy. For more than 30 years I have ministered to friends who live in a world of silence. They are deaf and communicate in American Sign Language. And yet their world – like ours – is filled with the kind of noise that can steal their peace.

Consider the following Tips from the Scriptures:

Isa. 32:17 “The fruit of righteousness will be peace; the effect of righteousness will be quietness and confidence forever.”
Ecc. 4:6 “Better one handful with tranquility than two handfuls with toil and chasing after the wind.”
1Thess. 4:11 “Make it your ambition to lead a quiet life, to mind your own business.”
Ps. 46:10 “Be still, and know that I am God.”

The remedy for dealing with all the noise (external and internal) we live with is to have frequent – and at times extended – periods of time to be alone with our MASTER. Jesus had such times with his FATHER, and he scheduled similar times for his disciples to be with him.

Is the Holy Spirit trying to get your attention?

Learn to Have a Grateful Heart

2009-03-09T12:30:00.003-04:00

I Thessalonians 5:18: “Give thanks in all circumstances.”

We are not born with grateful hearts. Gratefulness and thanksgiving are traits that need to be developed in us. You and I have one thing in common; we know people that seem to have a knack of rubbing us the wrong way (and not even my cat will put up with that for long). But our God is Gracious! HE knows that all of us need to be honed if we are to remain on the spiritual cutting edge. There is nothing worse in your kitchen utensil drawer than a dull knife. And the tendency of knives that are used regularly is to become dull. So we find it necessary to regularly “rub them the wrong way to sharpen them.

As iron sharpens iron, so God uses other people to keep us spiritually honed, that we might always be effective. Learn to be grateful for people who are flawed and for imperfect gifts. Like it or not, you and I fall into that category occasionally, and God uses us to sharpen others. Be grateful when your child or spouse attempts to help in ways they are not yet adept. Praise them for what they “do!” Do not criticize for their lack of perfection. Be grateful when your body can still move around, even if the “imperfections” of aging are beginning to show. This February morning (the day I am writing this) I am grateful that I was able to crawl out of bed with the help of my occasionally-needed cane, and was able to make it into a tub of HOT water for a 20 minute soak – Hmmmmmm!

Don’t wait until people around you become “perfect” before you thank them or praise them. And don’t wait until you “feel” like being grateful for the “things” that rub you the wrong way. Begin NOW to give thanks. The “doing” will produce the “feeling.” What will you thank God for today? What will you begin “doing” today that will change the way you “feel?” Let’s begin by thanking God for His sharpening processes, and do so regularly!

God Is Interested in Your Work

2009-02-18T14:29:00.003-05:00

Work is a highly honorable endeavor among men. God, Himself, set the example for us in the creation of the worlds. Genesis 1:31- 2:1a (Amp) says, “And God saw everything that He had made, and behold, it was very good – suitable, pleasant – and He approved it completely…And on the seventh day God ended His work which He had done.” Proverbs 18:9a (Amp) says; "He who is loose and slack in his work is brother to him who is a destroyer….”

God is interested in whatever it is that you do for work. All work is sacred before the LORD! Not only is God interested in what you do, He also is interested in how your do it. Colossians 3:17 (Amp)says; "And whatever you do - no matter what it is – in word or deed, do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus and in [dependence upon] His Person, giving praise to God the Father through Him.”

The Bible says; “The heavens declare the glory of God,” and it goes on to imply that the declarations and manifestations of God’s handiwork are continuous – continuing on throughout eons. Should what we do for His Glory be less considered? Who provides your earthly paycheck is not as important as HE who will test “all our works as though by fire.” Someone once wrote, “Only one life, t’will soon be past. Only what’s done for Christ will last.” If we assimilate this principle into our mindset, whatever we do for work will take on a whole new meaning. Start looking at your “job” this way today and glorify the Lord.

Two little lines I heard one day, Traveling along life's busy way;
Bringing conviction to my heart, And from my mind would not depart;
Only one life, 'twill soon be past, Only what's done for Christ will last.

Only one life, yes only one, Soon will its fleeting hours be done;
Then, in 'that day' my Lord to meet, And stand before His Judgement seat;
Only one life, 'twill soon be past, Only what's done for Christ will last.

Only one life, the still small voice, Gently pleads for a better choice
Bidding me selfish aims to leave, And to God's holy will to cleave;
Only one life, 'twill soon be past, Only what's done for Christ will last.

Only one life, a few brief years, Each with its burdens, hopes, and fears;
Each with its clays I must fulfill, living for self or in His will;
Only one life, 'twill soon be past, Only what's done for Christ will last.

When this bright world would tempt me sore, When Satan would a victory score;
When self would seek to have its way, Then help me Lord with joy to say;
Only one life, 'twill soon be past, Only what's done for Christ will last.

Give me Father, a purpose deep, In joy or sorrow Thy word to keep;
Faithful and true whate'er the strife, Pleasing Thee in my daily life;
Only one life, 'twill soon be past, Only what's done for Christ will last.

Oh let my love with fervor burn, And from the world now let me turn;
Living for Thee, and Thee alone, Bringing Thee pleasure on Thy throne;
Only one life, "twill soon be past, Only what's done for Christ will last.
Only one life, yes only one, Now let me say, "Thy will be done";
And when at last I'll hear the call, I know I'll say "twas worth it all";
Only one life, 'twill soon be past, Only what's done for Christ will last.

--Author Unknown

We Must Not Neglect God's Gift

2009-01-24T11:23:00.002-05:00

1 Corinthians 6:1-2 “As God’s fellow workers we urge you not to receive God’s grace in vain, For HE says: ‘In the time of My favor (Grace) I heard you, and in the day of salvation I helped you.’ I tell you, now is the time of God’s favor, now is the day of salvation.” KJV ( ) are mine

Note in verse 1 is that the emphasis is on “receiving in vain.” The emphasis is not “how one uses God’s grace,” but rather on the “lack of use – or even the misuse – of God’s grace.” What is this Gift of God’s Grace? It is the Gift of His Spirit. The Church – corporate and individual – has been “favored” (Graced) with the Anointing of God’s Presence and Power – the same Anointing that came upon Christ – the Anointed One.

In the first five chapters of this Epistle, Paul uses the word “Christ” twenty-four times. This in itself should say to us that what is being said here is of utmost importance!

God has brought us “into His Kingdom,” and in this Kingdom everything is accomplished through the POWER and AUTHORITY of the Spirit of God. It was so “in the beginning” when the Spirit of God “brooded” over the waters. It was true throughout the ministry of The Christ – The Anointed One. Jesus said, “I can do nothing of myself.” Every thing that Jesus said and did in His ministry was accomplished by The Anointing (Spirit) who filled Him “without measure.”

You and I have received this same “Gift of God’s Spirit." To receive this Gift “in vain” is to do nothing with the Gift. It means that we fail to allow the Power and Authority of the Holy Spirit within us to be manifested through us in accordance with KINGDOM PRINCIPLES. And nothing, absolutely nothing can be done for the Glory of GOD apart from operating within God’s Kingdom Principles.

I believe the Parable of the Talents (Luke 19) has a direct bearing on the admonishment we read here through the writing of the Apostle Paul. What do you think?

Make Your First Decision the Right One

2009-01-05T11:01:00.001-05:00

Romans 1:1 “Paul, a servant of Christ Jesus…”

The New Year is always filled with new resolutions. Most of them never bear fruit. Could it be that we’ve been trying to build a new framework without first having set the foundation?
Before Paul became an Apostle (a “sent one”) he was simply known as Saul of Tarsus, a Pharisee among the Hebrews. One day, while on a self-imposed mission, something happened that TOTALLY changed him from the inside out. He met JESUS! His first words were “Who are you Lord?” His next words were “What will YOU have me to do?” These two questions reveal the VITAL change that took place in Saul on that Divine day of destiny. Saul’s (later Paul) experienced a permanent paradigm shift. From then on he knew who his LORD was, and he knew who he was. And these two shifts in his thinking set the course for the rest of his life.
The Greek word order in Romans 1:1 gives us a new insight. Most English translations read “Jesus Christ.” It is almost as though “Christ” has become his last name. The Greek word “Christ” and the Hebrew word “Messiah” mean the same thing: “The Anointed One.” JESUS is the name given to God the Son at his incarnation. At that point he became the Son of Man; having “emptied himself” as we read in Philippians 2:7 (NEB).
Paul recognized Jesus as “THE ANOINTED ONE.” In Jesus dwelt “all the fullness of the Godhead, bodily.” He is “The Wonderful Counselor, The Mighty God, The Everlasting (from eternity past [AMP]) Father, The Prince of Peace” (Isa. 9). Jesus said, “No man can serve two masters…You cannot serve GOD and ‘the world.’” When Paul UNDERSTOOD who Jesus was (and is) he then understood who he was – and what he was to be – “a bond (love) slave” to THE CHRIST (THE ANOINTED ONE). From that point on, Paul had a brand new internal, spiritual compass that set and controlled the course of his life.

Do Not Short-Change Yourself

2008-12-14T19:13:00.002-05:00

John 10:10 AMP “[Jesus said] I came that they may have and enjoy life, and have it in abundance – to the full, till it overflows.”

When GOD created mankind (Adam & Eve) HE, already, had created EDEN – the Paradise into which HE placed them. EDEN was the perfect environment in every way. GOD wanted them to live a full and abundant life, and GOD was the sole provider of it all. But then…..

Jesus came to redeem fallen mankind and restore unto us that which satan has stolen, killed and destroyed (Vs. 10a). This abundant life continues to have a prerequisite: 1. Restoration unto God, 2. Total dependency upon HIM, and 3. Obedience – which translates into “hearers and doers of HIS Word.”

Work was also an integral part of the EDEN LIFE. And so it is with the Christian Life. But in our modern culture we have become accustomed to handouts and entitlements. These tend to encourage sloth and dependency upon someone other than GOD. The Book of Proverbs has the thread of work consistently woven into its teaching. “Give it all you got…then give it a little more. Be totally transparent in all your dealings with men.” Someone has said “You beat 50% of the people by working hard; you beat the other 40% by being a person of honesty…and the last 10% is a dog fight.” Learn to hang tough! Tie a knot in your rope of faith and hold tight ‘til HE delivers. Settling for anything less is to short-change your self, because it is God’s plan and will that your life be abundantly full, and that you live it as such. Now go and give life your very best today, and look only for the smile of approval from your Heavenly Father.

The Sacrifice of Praise

2008-11-23T17:45:00.002-05:00

“By Him [Jesus] therefore let us offer the sacrifice of praise to God continually, that is, the fruit of our lips, giving thanks to His name” (Hebrews 13:15).

The Bible tells us that in everything we are to give thanks. The giving of thanks is one way of praising the Lord and acknowledging His sovereignty. However, we recognize that there are times when it is much easier to praise the Lord – offering our thanksgiving – when everything is going our way.

I want us to note that the context of the above verse is not that of “good times.” It is that of suffering. An appropriate Scripture that comes to mind is the account of Paul and Silas sitting in a Philippian dungeon (dark, damp, disease-ridden); feet and hands in stocks, and their backs bruised and bleeding from a Roman flogging they received after setting free a woman who was demon-controlled. It was Midnight, and they were singing praises unto God (offering a SACRIFICE of Thanksgiving). When was the last time you received a spiritual tongue-flogging for having done something for the glory of the Lord Jesus? Maybe you were misunderstood or maligned. Maybe you were ridiculed or reprimanded. It is when we are under great duress (pain) that we need to begin offering the Lord the “sacrifice of praise.” It is a sacrifice because it takes everything we have within – and more – to do so. And we DO IT by the supernatural power of the Holy Spirit within us! By so doing we recognize and acknowledge that God is sovereign in our lives and in full control. In every situation He is Faithful to walk us through it. Praise that is offered in times like these leads to great victories which God uses to prepare us for even greater ones to come. AND satan is stopped in his tracks (defeated) by the praises of God’s people. That is why each time God sent the army of Israel to drive another nation from the Promised Land, the musicians and choir led the way.

THE LORD HAS SPOKEN! / a Post Election Special

2008-11-06T17:43:00.003-05:00

“…Know that the Most High [God] rules in the kingdom of men and gives it to whomever He will. (Dan. 5:32 Amplified Bible).

“First of all, then, I admonish and urge that petitions, prayers, intercessions and thanksgivings be offered on behalf of all men, For kings and all who are in positions of authority or high responsibility, that [outwardly] we may pass a quiet and undisturbed life [and inwardly] a peaceable one in all godliness and reverence and seriousness in every way. For such [praying] is good and right, and [it is] pleasing and acceptable to God our Savior” (1 Tim. 1:1-3 Amplified Bible).

On November 4th the People spoke as to whom they wanted to lead them for the next four years. Of course, not everyone is “happy” with the choice – they never are when it comes to our national, state and local elections. You might be among those who are wishing today that things were different. Where do we go from here?

I suggest the following:

1. Recognize the Sovereignty of God. He is not sitting on His Throne this morning wringing his hands! The first Scripture above came from the lips of the King (Nebuchadnezzar) who was deposed from power and later restored to power. He learned a very important lesson that we – the Church – need to learn. God is the Sovereign Ruler over all the kingdoms of men on the earth.
2. There are times when God’s decisions are made to bring His People unto repentance. Israel was in captivity in Babylon for a “determined” 70 years that they might learn that Jehovah, alone, is the Sovereign God throughout all His universe. Let us be reminded of 2 Chron. 7:14 and consider that God just might be calling the Church unto repentance.
3. All men have been placed under authority. The Kingdom of God is one of Absolute Authority. The Principle of Authority is Holy. And we are under obligation to God to pray for all those who have been placed in authority over us. If we will obey and abide under this Divine Umbrella we will have the Blessings of God upon us, which are “quietness” on the outside and “peace” on the inside (consider the Amish).
4. Remember that all of us (from kings to the lowest servants) are ultimately accountable unto the KING of kings and the LORD of lords.

Therefore, “I admonish and urge that petitions, prayers, intercessions and thanksgivings be offered on behalf of all men, For kings and all who are in positions of authority or high responsibility.” Thus says the LORD.

The Sacrifice of Praise

2008-11-01T15:14:00.002-04:00

“By Him [Jesus] therefore let us offer the sacrifice of praise to God continually, that is, the fruit of our lips, giving thanks to His name” (Hebrews 13:15).

The Bible tells us that in everything we are to give thanks. The giving of thanks is one way of praising the Lord. However, we recognize that there are times when it is much easier to praise the Lord – offering our thanksgiving – when everything is going our way; e.g., you get a promotion.

I want us to note that the context of the above verse is not that of “good times.” It is that of suffering. An appropriate Scripture that comes to mind is the account of Paul and Silas sitting in a Philippian dungeon (dark, damp, disease-ridden); feet and hands in stocks, and their backs bruised and bleeding from the Roman flogging they received after setting free a woman who was demon-controlled (Cf. Acts 16:16ff). It was Midnight, and they were singing praises unto God (offering a SACRIFICE of Thanksgiving). When was the last time you received a spiritual tongue-flogging for having done something for the glory of the Lord Jesus? Maybe you were misunderstood or maligned. Maybe you were ridiculed or reprimanded. It is when you are under great spiritual duress (pain) that you need to begin offering the Lord the “sacrifice of praise.” It is a sacrifice because it takes everything you have within you – and more – to do so. And you DO IT by the supernatural power of the Holy Spirit within you! By so doing you are recognizing and acknowledging that God is present, sovereign, and in full control in your life. In every situation He is Faithful to walk you through it. Praise that is offered in times like these leads to great victories which God uses to prepare you for even greater ones to come. AND satan is stopped in his tracks (defeated) by your "sacrifice of praise." That is why each time God sent the army of Israel to drive another nation from the Promised Land, the musicians and choir led the way.

Invoke a Blessing On Yourself

2008-10-22T08:19:00.002-04:00

The Bible says, "As a man thinks in his heart, so is he." It also says, "Out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaks." When was the last time you said something good about yourself to yourself based on the WORD? What you think about yourself that is contrary to what God thinks about you will come out of your mouth. When it does it becomes a curse over you.
In Isaiah 65:16 we read, "He who invokes a blessing on himself...shall do so by saying, May the God of Truth...bless me." (emphasis is mine). We need to forget the past with every negative thing spoken to us or about us, and we need to get into God's Word to discover what He has said about us. Then we need to begin declaring to ourselves - out loud - these truths until they become part of the fabric of our thought processes. Here are just a few to get you started.

You, as a part of mankind, were created in God's likeness: Genesis 1:26
God chose you in Christ Jesus before the foundation of the world: Ephesians 1:4
God has recreated you in Christ Jesus (by the New Birth) unto good works: Ephesians 2:10
God has given you joint-seating with Christ Jesus on the Throne: Ephesians 2:4-8

As a Christian (a Believer and Disciple of Jesus) your body is the Temple of His Spirit. Be careful what you declare about yourself. Scripturally-based, faith-filled words will open - and keep open - the door to God's blessings. Discipline yourself to becoming a Philippians 4:8 Christian, and begin speaking the WORD over your life.

YOU Are Unique In God's Creation

2008-10-04T18:50:00.002-04:00

“Don’t let the world [system] around you squeeze you into its mold” (Romans 12:2).

God has given you a mind with which to think His thoughts, a tongue to “taste and see that He is good, a nose to catch the fragrance of His presence, ears to hear the whispers of His heart, and eyes to perceive the beauties of His Kingdom. But satan is in control of the world systems and is a master of deception (squeezing us into his mold). God tells us to be “transformed…” When God created you, His purpose was that you should be unique. The world system’s end is to have you be like everyone else. “Difference” is viewed as disruptive.

Bob Gass (Bob Gass Ministries) says that God has intended for us to be thermostats and not thermometers. Thermostats “set the climate.” Thermometers “reflect the climate.” Our world culture pressures us to “buy what others buy, wear what others wear, say what others say, value what others value and do what others do. Ouch! I’m feeling a bit pinched in this mold. Aren’t you? I find it interesting that you can be everything else except a Christian, and the world will leave you alone. However, if you are an avid and active follower of the Lord, Jesus Christ, the world will oppose you. In some places your children can be taken from you – “for their protection and the good of the state.”

Hmmmmm! Maybe we are unique creations after all; placed by God into the kingdoms of this world not only to be “light,” but also “salt.” Selah! (Think about this for awhile!).

Who said, “It Doesn’t Get Any Better Than This?”

2008-08-31T05:11:00.002-04:00

“Behold, what manner of love the Father hath bestowed upon us, that we should be called the sons of God:…Beloved, now are we the sons of God, and it doth not yet appear what we shall be: but we know that, when he shall appear, we shall be like him; for we shall see him as he is” (1John 3:1 – 2 KJV).

IMPORTANCE stems from recognition. And when it comes to recognition in our world, all of us could easily be overlooked. How few there really were that “came home with the Gold” from the recent Olympics in China.

The previous context for the verses above can be found in the second chapter. Allow me to condense John’s words: “Love not the world, neither the things that are in the world…For all that is in the world, the lust of the flesh, and the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life, is not of the Father, but is of the world. And the world is passing away” (vs. 15-17). John wants us to have a “real world” perspective. It begins and ends with GOD. “Behold what manner of love the Father has bestowed upon us…we shall be like him.”

The tone of today’s thought is not one of condescension, but rather of recognition of who we are in Christ. And from beginning to end it’s because of our Father’s LOVE. It’s not about WHO you are, but rather about WHOSE you are: “Sons [and daughters] of YEHWEH!” You and I are HIS KIDS! This is an honor that the world cannot and does not recognize. And as yet we are in our imperfect state. Imagine what is yet to come! In the instant HE appears to take us unto Himself, the transformation will be completed, and we shall be like Him. In that instant, no explanation will be necessary.

Keep looking up!

Roger

The Eternal Jesus

2008-08-19T18:34:00.003-04:00

“You will become pregnant and will give birth to a Son, and you shall call His name Jesus…and He will be called…the Son of the Most High” (Luke 1:31-32).

The name “Jesus” means Savior. The Hebrew form, “Joshua,” means “Yehweh (Jehovah) is salvation.” Just when did Jesus come to be? Many would say, “At the first Christmas.” But my answer to you is: Jesus is “the same yesterday, today and forever.” In other words, Jesus has always been. “Savior” has always been His name. What we speak of as “Christmas” was the focal point of his “incarnation.” Jesus is GOD – GOD the Son. It was GOD the Holy Spirit who “brooded [if you will] over the virgin, Mary, and created in her a body for the Son of God to inhabit; a body that was pure, sinless, conceived without human intervention, except for Mary’s cooperation in yielding herself to the will of THE ALMIGHTY ONE. The angel that appeared to Mary instructed her to “call his name Jesus.”

In speaking to the church at Galatia, Paul said “I am again suffering birth pains until Christ is completely formed (molded) within you” (Galatians 4:19). The Christians in Galatia were in danger of aborting that which God had seeded in them. The same can be said of some in our day. God has never changed His eternal plan, viz., dwelling among men. In the OT He was among His people in the Tabernacle. At the time of Jesus, He was with them in a human body. And now, as declared by Jesus, Himself: “And I will pray the Father, and he shall give you another Comforter, that he may abide with you for ever; Even the Spirit of truth; whom the world cannot receive, because it seeth him not, neither knoweth him: but ye know him; for he dwelleth with you and shall be in you” (John 14:16-17). (Underlining is mine). By the Spirit of GOD, the Father and the Son (whom we know as the Jesus, the Eternal One) dwell in you. Continue to abide in Him until He is “fully formed” in you.

Roger

My Trust Is In the LORD

2008-08-06T09:29:00.002-04:00

Psalm 4:3 “But know that the LORD hath set apart him that is godly for himself: the LORD will hear when I call unto him.”

The LORD (El Shaddai – GOD who is more than enough) is my GOD. HE is my Righteousness! In JESUS I am a “joint heir” of all that is GOD’s. The LORD has “set me (Roger) apart for Himself. As a fellow Believer in the LORD, Jesus Christ, you are “set apart.” We have been “set apart” unto GOD. Try to wrap your mind around that one!

Most likely you – like me – have financial investments at work for your future years (and beyond that for your “children and children’s children"). But if you are solely trusting your financial advisor or your “funds or stocks managers,” you probably are a little jittery with the current market situation. If, however, you have recognized that all that is in your hands is a trust from the LORD, and that you are merely a steward of all HE has put in your care, then you can put your head on your pillow each night knowing that HE is LORD over ALL. That HE is El Shaddai, the GOD who is more than enough. HE can handle and care for it all. HE has done so before you and I arrived, and will continue to do the same after we have departed.

Note in closing the last two verses of this Psalm. “Thou hast put gladness in my heart, more than in the time that their corn and their wine increased.” The Psalmist is talking in terms of an extraordinary Bull Market. “I will both lay me down in peace and sleep; for thou, LORD, only makest me dwell in safety.” The only real peace and security is found in fully and solely trusting in the One who is called “The GOD who is more than enough!”

May HIS Peace that surpasses all human understanding guard your heart and mind in Christ Jesus as you fully trust HIM today.

Roger

God's 'Exceeding, Abundant' Measure

2008-07-29T20:47:00.002-04:00

“Now unto Him that is able to do exceeding abundantly above all that we can ask or think…” (Ephesians 3:20 KJV).

Today I am sharing with you a testimony, which is a departure from my usual format and guidelines for my thoughts.

Recently I was without my laptop which I had to send back to the company for repair. I had ordered the part to install myself, and discovered through tech support that I would not be able to perform the work, as I was minus the skills and the tools. I was instructed to ship the computer and the part I had ordered to the Service Center. I would be refunded for the part.

My computer arrived home safe six days later, and I was in the process of getting all my programs and files loaded in. I decided to check with the company to see if the refund for the part I had purchased was in process. For the next day and one-half I was on the telephone with six or more company representatives trying to get an answer. Last evening (July 25th) I received a final call back from a Supervisor. Again I shared with her the history of my 24+ hour quest. She (Gina) graciously listened and then placed me on hold for a few moments while she did some checking. Soon she was back and said that since she was unable to trace the part that I had shipped with the computer to the Service Center, it would not be possible to credit back to my credit card the cost. But that she could cut a check for the amount and mail it to me. In a couple minutes she placed me on hold again for another check. She returned shortly and informed me that writing me a check for the part I had purchased would not be possible, but that she had an even better solution. She was now going to credit back to my credit card the full amount of the repair work that was done ($$$$), because the company was responsible for the misinformation I had been given to ship the part along with the computer to the Service Center. I was now choked up. The amount they were going to credit back to my card was six dollars short of being 200% more than what I had paid for the purchased part.

I began to praise the LORD over the phone and shared with the Supervisor how God had been blessing my life and others in my church. I shared with her a miraculous healing from fourth stage cancer we just had in my church. It was certified by the doctor (Gina choked up). I had the joy of praying with her over the phone for God to meet all of her needs – whatever they were – and also those of her family. She said I made her whole day and thanked me for praying for her. Well, it was God who did it all… “exceeding abundantly above all that I could ask or think.”

Thank you, Father!

The WORD Come Alive!

2008-07-14T08:23:00.002-04:00

I am forever being amazed at how GOD chooses to make His WORD come alive in my heart and mind. Most of the time it has happened through studying, hearing a message given in a Church/Worship setting, reading a spiritually challenging book by some well-known author…and the list could go on. But today the Holy Spirit gently crept into my mind/heart in a whole new way. I love it when HE does that! HE just says loud and clear, “Don’t try to put me into a box. I want to move in “mysterious ways [my] wonders to perform.” It happened just this Sunday afternoon, July 6th, as I was reading the BLOG of a new acquaintance I had met on July 4th. She and her husband had recently acquired the home/farm my daughter and son-in-law sold in NY to broaden their horizons in a move to New Hampshire. My wife and I had dropped by to see how she and her husband were doing, and in the course of conversation the subject of ‘BLOGS” surfaced.
I was checking out her BLOG for the second time when GOD spoke to me, out of what Debra (that’s her name) had written from her own personal experience. The background is that she is endeavoring to restore their latest acquisition into a farm home that reflects their dreams/desires in this new chapter of their lives. Let Debra share with you what she shared with me today on her BLOG, and how GOD used her thoughts to open a whole new vista for me. Breaking into her thought for 7.6.08:

“A couple people told me they hope I have the stamina for this little farm. Well, I believe I do, but I also think I have something even better. Grace.”

(At this point I clicked on Grace, which took me to Debra’s thoughts of a previous day -- December 28, 2004).

“Grace walks into the room and now I recognize her. I rise, smiling, and step over to greet her. That wasn't always so. For years Grace was a vague, wispy somebody who came and went because I didn't understand her. I didn't know how much I needed her, nor how much I'd neglected her ever since God sent her to me. But one day I woke up, and there she stood at the end of my bed, wordlessly inviting me to rise. Then all day long she walked beside me, helping me to do every chore -- and because of her presence, the chores became sweet. I no longer dreaded them, but anticipated them because Grace would be there with me, smiling and helping me to do what I could never do alone. But Grace could be stern, too. When I would try to do things, even good things, which God had told me to let go of, Grace would shake her head and back away. And when I'd stubbornly persist in doing those good things anyway, because I thought I "should," Grace would leave the room. And there I'd be left without Grace's smiles or her light. Instead, I'd be back to struggling, trying to make that good thing work. The joy was gone, and there was no flow from an oil of peace. No, just struggle and obligation were left. And finally, through the hallways of Time and Experience, I learned to recognize Grace. When she was beside me and when she wasn't. I discovered a good thing is no longer a good thing if Grace is not helping me with it. I learned I am in the wrong place if Grace is not there to both strengthen me and cushion my heart from blows. With Grace, I can do anything, and do it with peace and tranquility. Without her, Life is cruel. And now when Grace walks into the room, I run up to her and we leave together, smiling smiles of courage, to change this weary world.”

(Debra now returns to the present)

“Grace is all over me out here. She whispers the best and smartest ways and times to do things (like work in the yard in the cool mornings and save housework for later)... she gives me creative ideas and leads me to necessary information and instruction (especially for out in the yard).... and she gives me strength, courage and patience. All of which I require above and beyond just the stamina part.”

Conclusion:
God’s Grace came to me in a new format today (one that is ‘user friendly’ to this user!). “I stand amazed in HIS Presence! That GOD would adapt HIS GRACE to best accommodate my learning style by personification! WOW! And HE did it in such a mysterious way! He revealed “Her” to me through my new acquaintance of TWO days!” Looking back, why should all this be so unusual? Did HE not also personify Wisdom through HIS servant, Solomon?

“Father, thank you for making me unique, then calling me, and finally customizing your GRACE for me in a form that my learning style can grasp. AMEN!

Total Forgiveness -3

2008-07-01T09:26:00.003-04:00

“Let all bitterness, wrath, anger, clamor, and evil speaking be put away from you with all malice. And be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God in Christ forgave you.” (Ephesians 4:31-32 NKJV)

Total forgiveness perfectly describes the way in which God forgives us. Some descriptive verses would include: “For You have cast all my sins behind your back” (Isa. 38:17). “As far as the east is from the west, so far has He removed our transgressions from us” (Ps. 103:12). Jesus prayed from the cross as he looked down on the crowd, “Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do” (Luke 23:34).
Total forgiveness is more than just saying “I forgive you,” it is also asking the Father to forgive those who have wronged us. Stephen, while he was being stoned (John 7:60), prayed, “Lord, do not charge them with this sin.” Here, too, the implication is that those who were stoning him did not fully realize the long range ramifications of their sin.
Total forgiveness is going the extra mile and asking God to bless our enemies (“to bless and curse not”). In a way, it is like asking God to let them “off the hook” (RT Kendall’s phrase).
Total forgiveness is not “forgetting.” We have all heard the phrase, “forgive and forget.” But you might be saying, “How can I forget? I am NOT God.” And you are right! We are told that everything we experience with our five senses is permanently stored in the brain. With the right stimulus it will surface. God does not forget in the sense that we most often use the term. What HE does, as is born out throughout the Scriptures, is to choose not to recall it. He chooses not to charge it against us. We need to choose not to recall and nourish the hurts others have caused us by replaying the videos (and conversations) over and over in our minds. We can choose to turn it off! We can choose to ask our Father to bless, bless, bless them. There is so much more, but this is a start.
Roger

Total Forgiveness: You Can Choose to Emulate It! -2

2008-06-18T04:15:00.003-04:00

“He hath not dealt with us after our sins; nor rewarded us according to our iniquities, For as the heaven is high above the earth, so great is his mercy toward them that fear him. As far as the east is from the west, so far hath he removed our transgressions from us. Like a father pitieth his children, so the LORD pitieth them that fear him. For he knoweth our frame; he remembereth that we are dust” (Psalm 103:10-14 KJV).

WOW! What a beautiful, graphic concept. THIS is total forgiveness. It is founded in the WILL of God. Permit me to do a spin-off on a ”retromercial” I saw on TW Cable 11 the other night. It was a classic Dial Soap commercial that went like this: “Aren’t you glad you use dial? Don’t you wish everybody did?” Here’s the spin-off: “Aren’t you glad GOD forgives like this? Don’t you wish everybody did?” Total forgiveness is not just a good idea for every Christian. It is obligatory upon each of us, because God never asks anything of us that is impossible – given his enabling. Remember Peter’s “Seven times?” question and Jesus’ “Seventy times Seven!” answer? (Matthew 18:21-22) How is this possible? R.T. Kendall lists some practical steps toward making it a reality.

1. Make a deliberate and irrevocable choice not to tell anyone what the offender did.
(God never broadcasts our sins!)
2. Be pleasant to the offender when you happen to be around him.
3. If conversation ensues, say nothing that would pile on guilt.
4. Let the individual feel good about himself. Show Christ-like love.
5. Protect him from his greatest fear (his deep dark secret) of being discovered.
6. Pray for him that God would abundantly bless him.

This kind of commitment on “our” part will bring Peace, Joy and Health to your whole person. Total forgiveness must become a life commitment for the Christian if he is to fulfill God’s expectation of Christ-likeness. When you reach this level, you’re ready for the last one in which Total Forgiveness becomes your Lifestyle! Nobody said it is easy; however, God says it is POSSIBLE!

“LORD, I am ‘forgetting those things that are behind and pressing toward the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus.’ Infuse me with the forgiveness that you have shown towards me until it becomes my lifestyle, too. AMEN." Will you join me in this prayer?

Total Forgiveness -1

2008-06-11T18:07:00.001-04:00

“Let all bitterness, wrath, anger, clamor, and evil speaking be put away from you with all malice. And be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God in Christ forgave you” (Ephesians 4:31-32 NKJV).

Total forgiveness perfectly describes the way in which God forgives us. Some descriptive verses would include: “For You have cast all my sins behind your back” (Isa. 38:17). “As far as the east is from the west, so far has He removed our transgressions from us” (Ps. 103:12). Jesus prayed from the cross as he looked down on the crowd, “Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do” (Luke 23:34).
Total forgiveness is more than just saying “I forgive you,” it is also asking the Father to forgive those who have wronged us. Stephen, while he was being stoned (John 7:60), prayed, “Lord, do not charge them with this sin.” Here, too, the implication is that those who were stoning him did not fully realize the long range ramifications of their sin.
Total forgiveness is going the extra mile and asking God to bless our enemies (“to bless and curse not”). In a way, it is like asking God to let them “off the hook." Total forgiveness is not “forgetting.” We have all heard the phrase, “forgive and forget.” But you might be saying, “How can I forget? I am NOT God.” And you are right! We are told that everything we experience with our five senses is permanently stored in the brain. With the right stimulus it will surface. God does not forget in the sense that we most often use the term. What HE does, as is born out throughout the Scriptures, is to choose not to recall it. He chooses not to charge it against us. We need to choose not to recall and nourish the hurts others have caused us by replaying the videos (and conversations) over and over in our minds. We can choose to turn it off! We can choose to ask our Father to bless, bless, bless them.