What Will You Do?

What will you do?

"All the Israelites grumbled against Moses and Aaron, and the whole assembly said to them, “If only we had died in Egypt! Or in this wilderness!" (Numbers 14:2, NIV)

As I read through the Old Testament, I am always struck by the lack of faith the Israelites failed to demonstrate despite the miracles God demonstrated in their lives as they wandered through the desert for forty years. I find myself asking the question (again and again): How could they not trust the God who delivered them from slavery? What was it that robbed them of faithfully trusting God’s promises, miracles and commands? The obvious answer is that they lacked faith in God. They never determined to trust in the God of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob. How does their life (God’s chosen people Israel) contrast with the lives of Christians today? God delivered them with miracles, signs and wonders from Egyptian slavery, parted the Red Sea and enabled them to walk through it on dry land, fed them with manna from heaven, and quenched their thirst with water from a rock. Still, they didn’t trust this same God who said He gave to them a land flowing with milk and honey. They were afraid of the inhabitants who occupied the land. They constantly said they were better off in Egypt. In America, Christians go to church on Sunday where they are reminded of the grace, mercy and love God has for them. Regardless of the level of their spiritual maturity, their motivation, traditions or habits, Christians gather together in the presence of Almighty God. When we exit the doors of our local churches, what becomes of our attitudes toward God, toward fellow Christians, toward others not part of our church? The Old Testament Jews were not gifted with the Holy Spirit in their life as New Testament Christian believers. Christians don’t require signs and wonders to know God is faithful to His promises. Christians are told that we are all sinners, that there is none righteous, not even one. Christians know that no one can stand before the presence of God on their own merit and be justified. It takes the redemptive work of Jesus Christ to justify anyone before the judgment of God. So Christians have no reason to grumble, complain, quarrel, or lack true faith! I am grieved when I hear Christians complain. I am just as grieved when I hear some of the words that have been uttered from my lips. Despite my grief, it cannot compare to the sadness our words produce when they echo in the heavens before God. When I look back at my life, I can clearly see how it was the grace of God which carried me through each and every trial I faced. When I hear the words, Jehovah-Jireh, I know God is my provider. God provides! I know that the grace of God carries me throughout the days of my life, so while I am tempted to complain and grumble, I must refrain. I have determined to trust the outcome of my day to the providence of God’s amazing grace. When I hear others speak of how good they had it before, I won’t complain. When I hear others speak of how terrible the United States is, I won’t complain. When others rail against political leaders, I won’t complain. When religious leaders are exposed for immoral conduct, I won’t complain. I will pray. I will remember that I am not worthy of the many blessings God has showered in my life. I will remember that God has been merciful to me when by all accounts, I deserved no mercy. I will remember that God loved me when I myself did not love Him. I will thank God for His infinite love which He gives to all. I will pray. God said, “This is the covenant I will make with them after that time, says the Lord. I will put my laws in their hearts, and I will write them on their minds.” (Hebrews 10:16, NIV) I will embrace the covenant of God because He has written His words in my heart. I will remember the word of God says, “For you have been bought with a price: therefore glorify God in your body.” (1 Corinthians 6:20, NASB) My life is not my own, I belong to God. Because of this I am not conforming to this world I live in, I am being transformed as God has said, “And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, so that you may prove what the will of God is, that which is good and acceptable and perfect.” Romans 12:2, NASB) I will pray that each day, my life is being transformed into a truer reflection of Jesus Christ. My thoughts, words, behavior and life reflect Jesus not the man I once was. What will you do today? MTJ

A Note of Thanks: I would just like to say that I appreciate each of you who visit My Thought-filled Journey. Taking time out of your schedule to read a post on this blog is encouraging to me. Many of those who visit, will from time to time leave a comment. Whether a comment is left is not important. What is important, is that you came. I do hope you find encouragement and inspiration in these words. Please know I will pray with you regarding any circumstance you may be facing. Feel free to write me to say "Hello", request prayer, or share what God is doing in your life. I have not said it enough, but thank you for the light of Christ in your life which illuminates the way for us all.

Note: This post is linked to Spiritual Sundays (hosted by Charlotte).

Goodness of the Lord

The Goodness of the Lord

This week I am reflecting on the goodness of the Lord. I try not to take Him for granted, but I must admit there are times when I’m swept away into the so-called complexities of my life. Life can get hectic and stressful but I need to remember that my life is in God’s hands; in Him I have placed my trust. A couple sits at home; they’ve got no food to eat. The husband takes the hand of his wife and begins to pray. A knock at the door and to their surprise it’s someone they met months ago in church. The visitor is holding a large box of groceries, telling the couple that while praying the Holy Spirit prompted him to bring food to them. A young girl afflicted with Leukemia lies at home; her parents are at a loss because they lack the funds to pay for an experimental treatment. They wonder how they can raise six hundred thousand dollars. Someone familiar with their dilemma mentions it on Facebook and in less than one week, the funds arrive and the little girl is flown to Philadelphia to undergo treatment. A young woman requires brain surgery in Germany; she hears about the little girl with Leukemia and gives all her funds to help. Others stepped up and give the needed funds so she can fly to Germany and have her surgery. Some would say, “This was accomplished through the kindness and generosity of many” but I would say, “Many were moved by the Spirit of God to help.” The bible says that we should, “Give honor to whom honor [is due].” (Romans 13:7, KJV) Is it so difficult to say, “God is good”? It’s easy to recognize the miracles that happen around us but too often we fail to recognize the things that happen daily in our life: Waking to the dawn of a new day Those with jobs, the ability to work Those in school, the opportunity to acquire education Those in ministry, the desire to serve Those who are married, the opportunity to discover the true meaning of love “For in him we live and move and have our being.” (Acts 17:28, NIV) It is through the goodness and grace of God that we live, we exist, we function in this life; God is good. written by MTJ

A Note of Thanks: I would just like to say that I appreciate each of you who visit My Thought-filled Journey. Taking time out of your schedule to read a post on this blog is encouraging to me. Many of those who visit, will from time to time leave a comment. Whether a comment is left is not important. What is important, is that you came. I do hope you find encouragement and inspiration in these words. Please know I will pray with you regarding any circumstance you may be facing. Feel free to write me to say "Hello", request prayer, or share what God is doing in your life. I have not said it enough, but thank you for the light of Chist in your life which illuminates the way for us all.

Note: This post is linked to Spiritual Sundays (hosted by Charlotte).

Finding Grace

Finding Grace (Image Courtesy of sharinggodsgrace.org)

I had a conversation with a friend about my post last week (Seeing Grace). [Friend] Where is the grace there? [Friend] Is God graceful to those (salmon) who succeed to jump upstream? [Me] When you fully understand grace, you realize that no matter what happens in life to me, God still loves me. [Friend] God loves you! How do you know that? [Me] The point I am trying to make is that if I look at God solely on the basis of how he blesses me with things or protects me from harm, I don't understand the necessity of having a meaningful relationship with God. How do I know God loves me? Because He says he loves me. That alone is enough for me to trust His word. Good doesn't happen to the most intelligent, or beautiful, or the better race, ethnicity or religious group. God is sovereign so there is nothing I can do to influence him to benefit me. If God chooses to bless my life, it is not because I am better; it is because he chooses to. The children who were shot today, who sinned; them or their parents? Could He have intervened? If that is what He wanted to do, but when things occur outside my level of expectation or understanding, I remind myself of that truth. I believe that "all things work together for good", so no matter what happens in my life, God is not shocked, surprised, or caught off guard. He will use circumstances in my life (whatever they may be) to bring about a greater purpose. I cannot see what He sees, so I may not understand why something happened. I may not have wanted it to happen. But I have a choice to trust that He will use it for my good. [Friend] Do you see Him as .....as somebody out there who protects you from any harm? [Me] Do you remember the biblical story of the 3 Hebrew boys thrown into the furnace? [Friend] Yes, a little. [Me] Do you remember what they said to the king who threatened them if they refused to worship his image? [Friend] No, I don't remember. [Me] Nebuchadnezzar was king of all Babylon. He commissioned a statue to be made in his image. And every day when the trumpets sounded, everyone in all Babylon was required to get on their knees and bow in the direction of his statue. Anyone who did not obey would suffer execution by being burned alive in a furnace. When he was informed about the 3 Hebrews, he ordered the furnace to be heated seven times hotter than normal. He then had them brought before him and he asked them: “When I throw you into that furnace do you think your God can save you then?” One of the Hebrews spoke up and said: “Our God is able to save us, but even if He doesn't, we will not exchange our trust in the Living God for an image of you!” So to answer your question, “Do you see Him as .....as somebody out there who protects you from any harm?” I would say, whether God protects me from harm or doesn't isn't relevant to whether I choose to trust Him with my life. Things happen in my life, both good and bad, but I will not waver in my belief that God loves me. The question I asked earlier about who sinned is how humans tend to look at tragedy. When a woman is raped, the rapist will be defended by the premise that the woman somehow was at fault. The men who killed those children today, maybe they have families, parents, a wife, possibly children. Each of them having a relationship with the murderers will be faced with the question of guilt. But they did nothing wrong. Only those who choose to do evil are wrong. In the mind of all evil doers, there are always valid reasons to do what they do, but reasons why do not matter, in the end, innocent lives were still stolen. But even in this tragedy, God can use it for the greater good, if we choose to learn from it. Knowing what it's like to see a life stolen by another human, my prayers are extended to those in Connecticut affected by last week's tragedy. It is a very difficult road to travel when a parent outlives their child. My mother has outlived two sons (one from childhood illness and the other murdered), but faith in God's love carries her on the road to heaven. For now, she remains alive with a purpose. She will go to them one day as I believe I too will see them again. But for now, in this moment of pain, sorrow, and sadness, I will look to the hills where my help comes; my help comes from the Lord! I pray that many of us in this country see that tragedy is the price we must pay, for the right to bear arms. To me, it is a silly notion that we hide behind a statement made hundreds of years ago when this nation fought for freedom from tyranny. Where is tyranny today? It is in the minds of those who manufacture weapons in this country. It is in the minds of those who sell weapons to individuals who are irresponsible citizens. It is in the minds of those who do not comprehend the meaning of love, grace, and peace. It is in the minds of those who will come out and say, “Guns don't kill, people kill”. What will it take for us to see the need to demonstrate Christ in our lives? If any man comes after me, he must first deny himself. Why would Christ say, I must first deny myself? Deny myself of what? It is not a question of “what” but “whom”. I must deny myself of “me”. I want to please “me” above pleasing God. This is what grace reveals, my utter selfishness. But the bible wants each of us to learn of a more excellent way, the way of grace. My life needs to be encompassed with the grace given me by God. Finding grace is not so difficult. Otherwise Christ would not have said, “Ask and it shall be given, seek and you will find, knock and the door will be opened.” Finding grace (even in the midst of tragedy) is not difficult. All I need to do is open my eyes. A Note of Thanks: I would just like to say that I appreciate each of you who visit My Thought-filled Journey. Taking time out of your schedule to read a post on this blog is encouraging to me. Many of those who visit, will from time to time leave a comment. Whether a comment is left is not important. What is important, is that you came. I do hope you find encouragement and inspiration in these words. Please know I will pray with you regarding any circumstance you may be facing. Feel free to write me to say "Hello", request prayer, or share what God is doing in your life. I have not said it enough, but thank you for the light of Chist in your life which illuminates the way for us all. by MTJ

Note: This post is linked to Spiritual Sundays (hosted by Charlotte).

Seeing Grace

Image courtesy of optimisticjourney.com

Song writer John Newton (1725-1807) wrote these words in the song Amazing Grace:

Through many dangers, toils and snares I have already come; 'Tis Grace that brought me safe thus far and Grace will lead me home.

Anyone who has experienced the power of God’s grace in their life will easily identify with these words. For many, the challenges of life can be like the obstacles salmon face swimming upstream. I once watched a documentary on salmon and the Black Bear. The Black Bear will wait upstream for the migration of salmon. As the fish hurl their bodies through the air in an attempt to navigate their way home, the Black Bear with a swipe of its huge paw smacks salmon after salmon onto the shore. There on the shore as the salmon flop helplessly out of water, the bear will gorge itself on the omega rich eyes of the salmon; that’s all the bear craves! No matter where I’m going in my life, the direction for me is upstream. Like the salmon, I’m on a path that leads me home. Along the way, there may be dangers, toils and snares, but like the song says, “I’ve already come…” That’s the magnificent quality of God’s grace, no matter the circumstances we face in life, grace leads us home. Some lack confidence in redemption because they don’t understand or know the scriptures, but even a blind man can see that “Jesus saves”. I can say, “I once was blind, but now I see” because I know I lacked vision to see the truth illuminated by the light of Christ. I lacked the ability to recognize the goodness of the Lord. When I hear someone say, “God is good”. It isn’t some catchy cliché; it’s the revelation that acknowledges how God works all things together for good… We’ve all been shocked and surprised at various times in our lives. I read some of the blogs written by Christians after the national election that indicated shock, dismay, and discouragement. But the truth is that God is never shocked, dismayed or discouraged; God is never caught unaware of events that occur in life. To every man is given a measure of grace. That’s what I need to know. That God has extended Himself in such a way that He is easily capable of reaching me and measuring the exact amount of grace my life so desperately needs. My grace is sufficient for you. It’s more than you’ll ever require! That’s what those words say to me. Should I pray for more grace? Why? I've already been given enough grace by Almighty God to get me through anything I face in life! I should utilize the grace God has given me and rejoice that I have more than enough to conquer the Black Bears in my life. I’ve seen enough hatred, bigotry and racism in a lifetime of living. I could easily say, “I’ve had it up to here with that stuff”, but I realize that just as Jesus said we would always have the poor, there will always be sin in this world until He returns. Like those who condemned the woman caught in adultery, we can just as easily be ready to stone someone because of our own self-righteous attitudes. But the truth is there is a very thin line between salvation in Christ and self-confidence. I pray that in this season of Christmas we Christians actually turn a corner and walk in a manner that befits being called the sons of God. I pray that we give grace as easily as we have received it. That we actually demonstrate to the world our capacity to love and forgive; that we remember that Jesus said, “You are the light of the world”. If I see grace as it really is, I will see that it will lead me home. A Note of Thanks: I would just like to say that I appreciate each of you who visit My Thought-filled Journey. Taking time out of your schedule to read a post on this blog is encouraging to me. Many of those who visit, will from time to time leave a comment. Whether a comment is left is not important. What is important, is that you came. I do hope you find encouragement and inspiration in these words. Please know I will pray with you regarding any circumstance you may be facing. Feel free to write me to say "Hello", request prayer, or share what God is doing in your life. I have not said it enough, but thank you for the light of Chist in your life which illuminates the way for us all. by MTJ

Note: This post is linked to Spiritual Sundays (hosted by Charlotte).

Why Pray?

Just Pray!

I’ve often heard others say... “Don’t just pray when you need God…pray always!” But what’s wrong with praying when you need God’s help? Certainly, it’s good to establish a consistent prayer life…     but many don’t have this in their everyday life. Prayer is simply talking with God and to me,     that means...     Anytime is a good time to talk with God. Some hesitate to pray because they may feel     “it’s been too long”, or     “God won’t hear them” But God listens all the time…     he delights in hearing your prayers. The bible says that, “God gives grace” To me, that means that He gives grace in such a sufficient amount, that I am not lacking. So my answer to the question, “Why pray?” is:     God hears. Nike says, “Just do it!” I’ll say, “Just pray!” MTJ

Note: This post is linked to Spiritual Sundays (hosted by Charlotte).

Look at Me Lord

Look at me Lord as I pray
(Image courtesy of http://gr8trimpact.com)

Look at me Lord; I’m down on my knees. I’ve been here before…     Lord, hear my plea. Times are hard, but I’ll never give up Touch me Lord… please fill my cup. Teach me the words…     of the Apostle’s Creed Remind me again, it’s You that I need The light in me…     must shine so bright. Illumine me Lord…     You are The Light. I once was blind, but now I see. Are not mere words…     to those set free. Free to walk, in the newness of life. You transformed me...     from darkness to light. I’ve risen with Christ…     who rose from the dead. The church is the body…     He is the head. So look at me Lord, pour out your grace. Purge me with hyssop...     prostrate on my face. Lying before…     Your Heavenly Throne. My soul thirsts for You, cause heaven's my home. I want to go home, but I need to stay. There’s work to be done...     I’m the Potter’s clay. So look at me Lord…     it's here where I stand. I love you Lord Jesus…     my life’s in Your hands. Yes, look at me Lord…     You’ve blessed my life. I’m ready to labor…     the harvest is ripe. Poem by MTJ

Note: This post is linked to Spiritual Sundays (hosted by Charlotte).

Fresh

Special Message: I need your help. My daughter entered her online crystal jewelry business (Gift of NI) in Walmart's Get on the Shelf contest. I want to ask you to cast a vote for her and mention it on your blog. If this is something you're not comfortable with, no worries. I don't often say this, but I do appreciate your visit and each comment. I thank God for each of you.

Fresh vine-ripened grapes

Clusters of grapes Ripe, fresh pomegranates Juicy, flavorful figs…     All fresh! Your blessings, O Lord…     New and fresh always! See the daffodils, yellow and beautiful. The lilies are fragrant and colorful. A vase filled with vibrant red roses…     All fresh! New every morning…     You constantly make our lives fresh! Your beautiful baby girl The son you’ve always wanted The unbridled smile of your child…     All fresh! When God ushers in a new thing…     It’s always fresh! You stuck with me through the good and bad times. You were there for better and for worse. You are my constant friend.     All fresh! You are closer than any brother Lord…     You make my life new and fresh! Poem by MTJ

Note: This post is linked to Spiritual Sundays (hosted by Charlotte).

Welcome Spring

Jesus is The Welcome Spring

Like a welcome spring breeze…     you came into my life and rescued me. What a rescue! You said, “Behold, I come”...     and You did. You sheltered me from the cold winter…     and warmed me with Your love. You nurtured me with grace…     and sustained me with salvation. Daily, You watch over me…     ordering my steps,     even when I fall. You are my welcome spring. You are like the river that flows...     a strong current to carry me. You secure me! You said, "...whoever drinks the water I give them will never thirst." When I thirst, you fill my cup...     until it overflows with joy and gladness. You are my oasis...     in the hot arid regions of my life. Your gifts are beyond measure...     Your immeasurable love amazes me.     You are life springing from the dead.     my roots stretch forth to drink from you. You are my welcome spring.

Note: This post is linked to Spiritual Sundays (hosted by Charlotte).

Way Lost!

Lost In a Maze, image courtesy of peacefulprosperity.com

Although I didn't write this as prose, I wanted to remain in this month's theme of The Condition of Being Lost. Some of you may view this as a prayer, and that's cool. Some may consider it a thoughtful personal reflection. Some may consider it just what I needed to read! Whatever your thoughts are, I'm glad you're reading it. Perhaps you'll pray and share it with someone you know. I hope it's viewed as a humble encouragement, not a condemnation of anyone.

Lost in a maze of confused thoughts and ideas,     with no answers to summon from my experience. I remember an old man talking to me about Christ;     but at the time, it made no sense to me. I was too smart for religion! I was too cool to be “spiritual”. Now that all my options have failed, I hear those same words echoing in my mind. “Come to Me, all you who labor and are heavy laden,     and I will give you rest.     Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me,     for I am gentle and lowly in heart,     and you will find rest for your souls.     For My yoke is easy and My burden is light.”1 Could it be this simple? What did that old man quote from the bible? “’For My thoughts are not your thoughts,     Nor are your ways My ways,’ says the Lord.”2 Will God hear me after all this time? Why would He listen to someone who never listened to Him? Jesus, I don't know if You're listening; I hope You are. I never believed You were important to someone like me. Someone with his own set of ready-made answers. I was wrong. Everything I valued in life has come up far short of my expectations. My relationships, health, behavior, thoughts, desires, and goals...     all are gone now. All that remains, are the tattered remnants of a chaotic life. I don't know what to do. I've run out of answers. I am in need of guidance and help. I see now that I must change, but I'm incapable of changing myself. If it were as simple as losing weight, I would change my diet. If it were a matter of clothes, I would change my wardrobe. If it were just a matter of locale, I would relocate to another place. But it goes much deeper than that... I need changing from the inside. That old man quoted another scripture, “I urge you, brothers and sisters, in view of God’s mercy,     to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice,     holy and pleasing to God—this is your true and proper worship.”3 I don't even fully understand what that means, but I'm willing to do that now. I want to learn at the foot of the cross. It's not acclaim I seek, I want forgiveness, peace and reconciliation. I want this endless loop to conclude. I would like to walk in a direction that actually leads to a true destination. I remember that old man quoting a scripture, “In My Father’s house are many mansions…I go to prepare a place for you.”4 Have You really prepared a place for one who never considered You? Today, I place my life upon the altar of Your cross Jesus. Whatever You do for me, is far more than I deserve; but I gladly accept what You offer. You offer me forgiveness, life, love, joy, contentment, and peace. These priceless gifts cannot be bought, and yet You give them to those who humbly ask. I want to thank You Jesus for hearing me. Somehow, my life already seems different. I'm not looking for a way out; I'm looking to You. That old man said, “…looking unto Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith…”5 My life is in Your hands, do with me what is right in Your eyes. I trust You. I don't want to betray this trust, so I ask that You help me trust in You. Saying, "Thank You" may seem low key to the hollywood version that "puts on a show",     but I am so thankful, that You hear me, that You answer me, and that You saved me. Help me see life through Your eyes. I want to let this mind be in me that is also in You. I want to have ears that hear; not ears that itch. I want my words to be acceptable and pleasing to You. I want to touch and agree with the heart and attitude of faith. I want to be filled with the outpouring of Your Holy Spirit. I want to take hold, grasp, and embrace You as firmly...     as Your gospel of salvation has taken hold of me.

Note: This post is linked to Spiritual Sundays (hosted by Charlotte).

Footnotes:

1. Matthew 11:28-30, NKJV
2. Isaiah 55:8, NKJV
3. Romans 12:1, NIV
4. John 14:2, NKJV
5. Hebrews 12:2, NKJV

References:

1. The Ryrie Study Bible (New American Standard Version), Edited by Charles C. Ryrie, Moody Publishers, Chicago, Illinois, ISBN 0-8024-8920-6
2. King James Version, The Crusade Analytical Study Edition, Crusade Bible Publishers, Inc., PO Box 90011, Nashville, Tennessee 37209
3. New King James Version, by Nelson Bibles, Thomas Nelson Publishers, Inc., PO Box 141000, Nashville, Tennessee, ISBN-13: 978-0840713704
4. The NIV Study Bible, Edited by Kenneth Barker, Donald Burdick, John Stek, Walter Wessel and Ronald Youngblood, Zondervan Publishing House, Grand Rapids, Michigan 49530, USA

Lost and Found

The Prodigal Son's Turning Point, Luke 15:11-32, NIV

It’s quiet now, at the break of day,     not a sound, except my thoughts. As I drift back and think of all,     the evil works I wrought. I want what’s mine, I’ll have it now!     Give me what I’m due! My father stood there, listening to,     the vile things I would spew. So he gave it all to me,     my inheritance. I then went off, so far away,     til every coin was spent. Women, parties, drunken nights,     I was a Jew gone wild. I was that fool who didn’t know,     he was a prodigal child. Soon my belly craved to have,     food I could not buy. I went to those, I thought were friends,     their words just made me cry. I took a job, far out from town,     feeding the farmers swine. The slop they ate, it looked so good,     I’ll eat it just this time. As I prepared, to eat that food,     a thought came suddenly. How better off the hired were,     they lived far better than me. And so I left, and headed back,     to my father’s home. I’ll seek forgiveness from the one,     that I had never known. While I was, still far away,     my father spotted me. He ran up close to where I was,     to finally set me free. A robe, a ring, and sandals too,     forgave me for my wrongs. The fatted calf was also killed,     a feast was held with songs. My son was lost, but now he's found,     he’s now come home at last. He’s learned the lessons of right and wrong,     I forgive him of his past. Poem by MTJ

Father God,

The song writer said, "Amazing grace how sweet the sound... that saved a retch like me...I once was lost, but now I'm found... was blind but now I see."

How lost I am without Your Spirit to guide me! What can I do? Where can I go? What can I say, that exceeds Your lovingkindness extended to me? Do I need thee? Yes, Father God, I need thee! Every hour, I need You. You are the Great and Mighty I Am. The Sovereign God who chose to give His Son, to redeem us from sin and death. I rejoice in Your goodness. I'm thankful that I have salvation in Jesus Christ. Guide me with Your Holy Spirit, that my life will testify to the power of Jesus Christ, my Redeemer who lives and reigns as King of kings, and Lord of lords. In the depth of my despair, You found and rescued me. May the life I live, be pleasing in Your sight, Dear Lord. Amen.

Note: This post is linked to Spiritual Sundays (hosted by Charlotte).

He’s Still The Sovereign God…My Provider

Abraham and Isaac Climbing Mount Moriah, image courtesy of rootsoffaith.org

The other night, I was praying and as it often happens (no, I didn’t fall asleep), the Holy Spirit reminded me that God is:

1. Sovereign
2. The Lord Who Provides

I began to think about this dynamic in which God gives grace:

“Or do you think that the Scripture speaks to no purpose: ‘He jealously desires the Spirit which He has made to dwell in us’? But He gives a greater grace. Therefore it says, ‘GOD IS OPPOSED TO THE PROUD, BUT GIVES GRACE TO THE HUMBLE.’”¹

God gives grace, independently of me; it’s His choosing! And yet, in His choosing, He provides grace to complete me.

Abraham referred to God as “Jehovah-jireh”, because God provided a substitute for Isaac. It occurred to me that as God provides, He substitutes grace in the place of what I want. It’s incumbent upon me to humbly surrender to His purpose and will for me.

In my mind, I may be scaling my own Mount Moriah, thinking I am obeying God’s command. When I arrive at the summit, the place where my prayers meet God’s grace, I discover that it’s not my prayer that changes God, but God’s grace which is purposed to change me.

Abraham was never the same after this Mount Moriah experience.

Do I scale Mount Moriah expecting God to provide or am I intent on completing my agenda?

I’ll never see grace as God’s provision through the blinded eyes of my own arrogance.

Throughout scripture, we can find instances of men and women who humbled themselves before the mighty hand of God and experienced the outpouring of His grace.

Instead of telling God what I want, I will ask Him: What shall I do?

I’ll expect God to provide His grace in my time of need.

“Therefore let us draw near with confidence to the throne of grace, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help in time of need.”²

Note: This post is linked to Spiritual Sundays (hosted by Charlotte).

Footnotes:

1. James 4:5-6, NASB
2. Hebrews 4:16, NASB

References:

1. Strong's Exhaustive Concordance of the Bible, By James B. Strong, S.T.D, LL.D., Riverside Book and Bible House, Iowa Falls, Iowa 50126
2. The Ryrie Study Bible (New American Standard Version), Edited by Charles C. Ryrie, Moody Publishers, Chicago, Illinois, ISBN 0-8024-8920-6
3. The NIV Study Bible, Edited by Kenneth Barker, Donald Burdick, John Stek, Walter Wessel and Ronald Youngblood, Zondervan Publishing House, Grand Rapids, Michigan 49530, USA
4. Matthew Henry's Commentary, McDonald Publishing Company, McLean, Virginia 22101, ISBN 0-917006-21-6

Overcoming Obstacles: God’s Plan for Me

I remember when I was working in a job that didn’t pay much and really had no future, but it helped keep food on my family’s table. There were a mixture of people I worked alongside from various backgrounds; I liked them all. One lady, who was much older than me, arrived to work each day with her bible in hand. She was a person who often talked about Jesus to her co-workers; some of whom would simply laugh and make light of her. Whenever she spoke to me I listened intently to her words, it was a time of new beginnings for me, in so many new areas of my life. I was a Christian, husband and father. Looking back at that time, I now realize how much I really didn’t know about the Lord, but what little I knew, I trusted and believed God. I remember reading about Joseph and how despite some really terrible things that occurred in his life, God still blessed and prospered him. I saw Joseph as a man who recognized opportunity. I identified with that aspect of his life; I looked for God to give me opportunity.

So here I was working in a dead-end job, but I believed that I was there only temporarily; that just as he had done for Joseph, God would open the door of opportunity for me. The time came when my manager was promoted to another area of the organization, the Software Programming Department. I remember wishing him well and asking him to remember me if an opportunity for a junior programmer opened. He said he would. I did this because I read how Joseph asked Pharaoh’s cupbearer to:

“...keep me in mind when it goes well with you, and please do me a kindness by mentioning me to Pharaoh, and get me out of this house.”¹

Like Joseph, I expected God to open for me a door of opportunity by using someone else as my facilitator. I shared this belief with that Christian woman on my job, expecting her to stand in agreement with me. Instead, she informed me that what I said was, “Impossible.” She said that, “Nothing like this had ever happened in all the years she worked in this place.” As I listened to her share these words confirmed in her by many years of experience, I’d come to a crossroad in my life. I could believe her and give up my vision of something better, or I could continue to believe that God would open the door of my opportunity. I chose to believe and trust what God had revealed to me in the life of Joseph. I remember thinking that,

“This woman doesn’t know me, why should I allow her to define my life’s future?”

Sometime later, a position did open up in the Software Programming Department, my former manager (Titus), remembered me and recommended me for the position. I was called in for an interview, and I grabbed that opportunity with every fiber within me; believing that the position was already mine.

Looking back at that time in my life, I appreciate now (much more than I did back then) that God creates opportunities for His children.

Back then, I blindly looked at scripture and appropriated it to my own life. I believed God could and would do anything for me. I looked at every obstacle as an opportunity for God to establish victory in my life. I read something recently which talked about the American culture and how we’re so focused on winning. Vince Lombardi, one of the coaching pillars of professional football once said,

“Winning isn’t everything, it’s the ONLY thing.”²

This mentality seems to permeate our culture and society in a way that dictates that everyone and everything that stands in our way must be defeated and vanquished. A sort of philosophy that insists, I must have victory, it’s my God given right as an American!

In examining how I overcome obstacles, it is imperative that I understand to some degree, God’s plan for me. I say this because I have come to accept the sovereignty of God. I accept it because I have come to realize that God does as He chooses and not at my bidding. Just as God provided Joseph with a door of opportunity to be released from prison, God allowed circumstances to occur in Joseph’s life that caused him to be imprisoned in the first place. This was part of God’s plan for Joseph.

I wonder what Joseph was thinking when his brothers threw him into that pit. Did he see himself in God's plan for Joseph or did he see himself stuck in a pit?

What were his thoughts as his brothers stood around mocking him for being a dreamer and favored son? Did he ask himself, "Why did this happen to me?" or did he remind himself to trust in the Lord my God.

I believe that just as I can overcome an obstacle by faithfully trusting in God, I also believe I can overcome an obstacle by trusting in God to enable me to endure what I face. The outcome is no longer the object to me; it is faithfully trusting in God. God may give me the victory in the heat of battle or God may give me the grace to endure the race; it is His sovereign choice. It is so incredibly amazing to me as I try to comprehend that God exists outside the parameters of time. What occurs today in my life has always been known to God, just as all of my tomorrows are known by Him.

I know now that God has a plan for my life, a purpose for my living. This then gives me awareness and faith that in an infinite realm of possible occurrences, God already knows the outcome; and He is capable of handling any outcome I face. The real question is:

Am I capable of trusting my life in His hands, no matter how His plan for me unfolds?

I’m learning to appreciate this aspect of God even more because:

“…He gives us more grace…”³

“…'My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.' Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ’s power may rest on me.”⁴

“You, dear children, are from God and have overcome them, because the one who is in you is greater than the one who is in the world.”⁵

“Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.”⁶

"The LORD of hosts has sworn saying, 'Surely, just as I have intended so it has happened, and just as I have planned so it will stand,' "⁷

My Lord and God,

I marvel with joy at the measure of grace You pour upon our lives. You knew us before the worlds were formed, and to each of us, You establish a purpose and plan for our lives. I want to live in that purpose and walk in Your plan. Your grace is sufficient because it is unmeasurable; my life overflows with Your amazing grace. Often we hear the words, "Impossible" and "That can never happen!" These are mere words, the sum of which can never define or defy You. Whether it is Your plan for me to overcome or to endure, I choose to trust You with my life; totally and completely. I have found freedom in You. You give me such joy and peace, saying, "Thank You" seems so miniscule. You know our hearts, You pierce our thoughts, and You know the gratitude we express to You. Again, I say, "Thank You, my Lord and God." Amen.

Footnotes:

1. Genesis 40:14, NASB
2. Famous quote by, Vince Lombardi, Head Coach, Green Bay Packers, from Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
3. James 4:6, NIV
4. 2 Corinthians 12:9, NIV
5. 1 John 4:4, NIV
6. Proverbs 3:5-6, NIV
7. Isaiah 14:24, NASB

References:

1. The NIV Study Bible, Edited by Kenneth Barker, Donald Burdick, John Stek, Walter Wessel and Ronald Youngblood, Zondervan Publishing House, Grand Rapids, Michigan 49530, USA
2. The Ryrie Study Bible (New American Standard Version), Edited by Charles C. Ryrie, Moody Publishers, Chicago, Illinois, ISBN 0-8024-8920-6
3. Biblegateway.com