I don't remember when people began removing the "Christ" out of Christmas, or when His birthday became so offensive, that people started to say "Happy Holidays" or "Season's Greeting" instead of Merry Christmas; but it really bothers me. The fact that many Christians seem to go along with it is what disturbs me the most. We live in a society where any and everything goes. From same sex marriages being acceptable to mother's trafficking their innocent children, the list of sin-sickness keeps growing and growing.
The other day I was in a store and another patron had her dog in her arms. As a disclaimer let me just say, not only do I not like dogs, I am petrified of them. The situation terrifiee and annoyed me, so I asked the cashier if it was store policy that people are allowed to bring non-guide dogs into the store. The cashier,a teenager clueless about work ethic and company policy shrugged her shoulders, smiled and claimed she didn't know. As quickly as my mouth opened to say something I closed it before I said something I might regret. I walked out the store and returned to the car where my parents were waiting on me to tell them what happened in the store. My mother who did an amazing job raising my brother and me, sometimes does NOT act like the woman who raised me, tells me there is a "new world order" where anything goes. Hmph! Really!?!? I'm quite confident the prophet Isaiah couldn't have been talking about this kingdom that would never end. Or maybe this is the "reprobate mind" age where people are evil, lustful,and lovers of themselves. Either way,the baby wrapped in swaddling clothes, with no room to lay His head came into the world not to condemn the world, but to save it. Yet people foolishly reject His plan to save, restore, heal, and deliver, and snuff him on His "birthday".
The beautiful baby born on this day is not only the reason for the season, He is the reason from now and forevermore. He is the gift that keeps on giving-abundant life more abundantly, forgiveness of sins, the Lamb slain to take away the sins of the world. What child is this? I'm talking about Mary's baby! Our Savior, friend, and reason to keep pushing (Praying Until Something Happens), we exist by His grace and mercy. In the words of Paul, thanks be to God for this indescribable gift.
I worship and praise the child born on this day, and so there is NO mistake about who I'm talking about, His name is Jesus! From my heart to yours~Merry CHRISTMAS! Remember, His is always the reason, because while seasons may come and go, the Word of God stands forever. Be Blessed!
Isaiah 9:7
Isaiah 40:8
John 3:17
Romans 1:28-32
Thursday, December 24, 2009
Tuesday, December 8, 2009
All Other Ground is Sinking Sand
First let me say, I apologize for not blogging like I should. I really have no excuse, so as one of my readers, please forgive me for not being diligent to something that I would like to remain committed to. Excuses build bridge to nowhere so I won't offer any, I just ask that you accept my humble apology as I pledge to do better. Friend, I am serious about sharing what I read and gain from the Word of God with you, so I must be committed to my blog, and sharing what the Spirit of God puts on my heart. I will make it my duty to at least post one to two devotions weekly from now on. After all, I read my Bible everyday, and the Word of God always has something fresh,and new to teach us. With each chapter I re-read, and as I journey deeper into my longing and true desire to go deeper in the Word, I find myself with fresh revelation, that I will will share.
I have something I want to post so badly, that if I don't I am going to be very disappointed in myself. Let me begin my story...I absolutely LOVE LifeWay Christian bookstores. If there is one in your area, I encourage you to visit and find books, Bibles, cds, or pamphlets that will strengthen and build you up in your Christian walk. As much as I love LifeWay, there is not one in San Francisco; the closest one is in Mill Valley on the campus of Golden Gate Seminary. Being they are located on a campus, they have really odd hours and getting there is a challenge, but in Houston; they are everywhere. I went to Houston in November for my Alma Mater's homecoming and Sorority chapter's 60th anniversary. This trip I HAD to go to LifeWay! I didn't care what homecoming festivity I missed; who I didn't see; what gathering I was missing from; I could've care less! Let me just say the reason it was so serious is because there is only one Christian Bookstore in San Fran. It's small, family owned, and they don't have a huge selection of "stock", so I'm not able to examine what I buy beforehand. But at LifeWay *SIGH* I get a warm and fuzzy feeling when I walk through the doors. The staff is always pleasant, they have an abundance of stock, and there is usually a soft instrumental gospel hymn playing and it's like a believer's Toys 'R Us.
I left my Sorors and friends at the tailgate party so I could go browse and buy. Of course, NOBODY believed that I was leaving HC activities to visit a bookstore, but like I said, I HAD to go! I was gone for three hours, no joke! One of my favorite items I bought was a ring in scripted with "One Day My Prince Will Come", a promise ring to keep on doing what I'm doing because He's coming back and I want to be ready when He returns. I purchased several other items, but running neck to neck with my ring was this book I almost overlooked by John MacArthur entitled "how to study the bible". Now I have been reading the Bible regularly since my teenage years, and I would say, I have read it from Genesis to Revelation at least six times. As I continue to grow and mature in my faith and walk with Christ,I really, really, really want to know, understand, and live by the Word of God. It's an easy read for the most part, divided into four parts with review questions at the end to make sure the reader really "get's it". I'm glad I purchased it, but today I was reading and MAN!!! John (like I know him) list seven applications about the Bible being a source of guidance in the life of a believer. I am so inspired by them, it's only right that I share them with you. But before I do...
I have loved the hymn "My Hope is Built on Nothing Less" for as long as I can remember. The lyrics touch me in my soul as I hum or sing "On Christ the solid rock I stand, all other ground is sinking sand. All other ground is sinking sand." I have found that to be the only truth in my life. When there was nobody else, when I had nothing else, when my back was up against the wall with nowhere to turn; Jesus was there steady as a rock comforting me, holding me, supporting me, and loving me. When I read these seven applications today on the bus during my commute, I was excited about the move of God that is underway. Friends be encouraged in your life, your situation, and in your faith. Everything that we need is in the Word of God. There is always a scripture to apply to whatever you may be facing in your life. The battle doesn't belong to us, but to God who is victorious and we have the victory because we are HIS children. I am listing the seven applications with the scripture that are included in the book. May these simple actions propel you in your faith and jump start a new hunger and thirst in your life for righteousness.
1. Believe It~John 6:67-68
2. Honor It~Job 23:12
3. Love It~Psalm 119:97
4. Obey It~1 John 2:5, Romans 6:16
5. Fight for It~Jude 3
6. Preach It~2 Timothy 4:2
7. Study It~2 Timothy 2:15
I have something I want to post so badly, that if I don't I am going to be very disappointed in myself. Let me begin my story...I absolutely LOVE LifeWay Christian bookstores. If there is one in your area, I encourage you to visit and find books, Bibles, cds, or pamphlets that will strengthen and build you up in your Christian walk. As much as I love LifeWay, there is not one in San Francisco; the closest one is in Mill Valley on the campus of Golden Gate Seminary. Being they are located on a campus, they have really odd hours and getting there is a challenge, but in Houston; they are everywhere. I went to Houston in November for my Alma Mater's homecoming and Sorority chapter's 60th anniversary. This trip I HAD to go to LifeWay! I didn't care what homecoming festivity I missed; who I didn't see; what gathering I was missing from; I could've care less! Let me just say the reason it was so serious is because there is only one Christian Bookstore in San Fran. It's small, family owned, and they don't have a huge selection of "stock", so I'm not able to examine what I buy beforehand. But at LifeWay *SIGH* I get a warm and fuzzy feeling when I walk through the doors. The staff is always pleasant, they have an abundance of stock, and there is usually a soft instrumental gospel hymn playing and it's like a believer's Toys 'R Us.
I left my Sorors and friends at the tailgate party so I could go browse and buy. Of course, NOBODY believed that I was leaving HC activities to visit a bookstore, but like I said, I HAD to go! I was gone for three hours, no joke! One of my favorite items I bought was a ring in scripted with "One Day My Prince Will Come", a promise ring to keep on doing what I'm doing because He's coming back and I want to be ready when He returns. I purchased several other items, but running neck to neck with my ring was this book I almost overlooked by John MacArthur entitled "how to study the bible". Now I have been reading the Bible regularly since my teenage years, and I would say, I have read it from Genesis to Revelation at least six times. As I continue to grow and mature in my faith and walk with Christ,I really, really, really want to know, understand, and live by the Word of God. It's an easy read for the most part, divided into four parts with review questions at the end to make sure the reader really "get's it". I'm glad I purchased it, but today I was reading and MAN!!! John (like I know him) list seven applications about the Bible being a source of guidance in the life of a believer. I am so inspired by them, it's only right that I share them with you. But before I do...
I have loved the hymn "My Hope is Built on Nothing Less" for as long as I can remember. The lyrics touch me in my soul as I hum or sing "On Christ the solid rock I stand, all other ground is sinking sand. All other ground is sinking sand." I have found that to be the only truth in my life. When there was nobody else, when I had nothing else, when my back was up against the wall with nowhere to turn; Jesus was there steady as a rock comforting me, holding me, supporting me, and loving me. When I read these seven applications today on the bus during my commute, I was excited about the move of God that is underway. Friends be encouraged in your life, your situation, and in your faith. Everything that we need is in the Word of God. There is always a scripture to apply to whatever you may be facing in your life. The battle doesn't belong to us, but to God who is victorious and we have the victory because we are HIS children. I am listing the seven applications with the scripture that are included in the book. May these simple actions propel you in your faith and jump start a new hunger and thirst in your life for righteousness.
1. Believe It~John 6:67-68
2. Honor It~Job 23:12
3. Love It~Psalm 119:97
4. Obey It~1 John 2:5, Romans 6:16
5. Fight for It~Jude 3
6. Preach It~2 Timothy 4:2
7. Study It~2 Timothy 2:15
Thursday, October 8, 2009
Like Only He Can
At a very young age, I was sick in my body and almost died. I'm sure I only made it through because of the saints that were praying for me and encouraging my mother. At the time, my mother was a single mother and when the doctor stood flat-foot and told her that there was a possibility her child could die, I know beyond a shadow of doubt that she wanted to take my place. Any good parent would do the same thing, but she wasn't the one sick in her body; I was. My mother was told I had a virus and it had to work it's way through my nine year old body and run it's course. The threat of death was too close for comfort. For about four months, I was unable to leave the house, so you know I was sick! My favorite activity of running and playing hard until the street lights came on was a thing of the past as I laid helpless day after day on our plaid couch.
Many times the outcome appears to be hopeless. Just ask the woman with the issue of blood who had a twelve year menstrual cycle with no end in sight. She was the ultimate picture of brokenness, hopelessness, and despair, but one day she heard about Jesus. This was the day she decided to be bold and risk her last shred of hope and take a huge leap of faith. In one moment, she found more than enough faith to reach out and touch the hem of Jesus' garment, and immediately, she was healed of her affliction.
Jehovah Rophe~ The Lord Who Heals
The children of Israel had tried God's patience to no end! No matter how many times Moses spent in God's presence bringing back a Word to them, they ALWAYS failed to obey and heed ANY warning signs. One day God performed one of the many miracles for them by turning bitter waters sweet, the Lord told them if they would obey and do what was right, He would not bring upon them the diseases which the Egyptians has because He was the Lord who heals them. Now this is in right after the parting of the Red Sea, and we have much of the OT showing just how well they understood the importance of being obedient and fully committed to God. I must be a first cousin to the children of Israel because I can not count the number of times I have failed to obey; continued not to heed; and gone off to do my own thing which has sometimes resulted in a mental, spiritual, financial, or physical healing.
The prophet Jeremiah writes, heal me and I will be healed; save me and I will be saved. The healing powers are for every aspect of our lives. Physical infirmaties are visible, and a part of life, but what about the healing of our minds, and soul? The healing no one can see except Jehovah Rophe? I know I can't be the only person with impure thoughts from time to time? Does anybody else need a healing for their sin-sick souls? All of us are sinners and our Holy God loves us; but hates our sin! Sin, the little big thing that causes a break in our fellowship with our Heavenly Father. We need healing to restore us again to a right relationship with Him. Are you a grudge holder? Only Jehovah Rohpe can heal the hurt that has been done so we can go boldly into our bright future. He said in His Word, only those with clean hands and a pure heart can can ascend to the hill of the Lord.
Jehovah Rophe wants all of us to be well and whole: metally, spiritually, physically, even financially. John writes for us to be well in all things even as our soul prospers, which is THE most important thing. I pray His Shalom will overtake you and if there is anything holding you back from experiencing a whole relationship with our Lord & Savior, I pray you will allow Jehovah Rophe~ The Lord Who Heals to mend the relationship. He is waiting for you with arms wide open; just like my friend who bled for twelve long years and moved in faith to receive her healing~so should we so we may be complete, whole, and healthy in our lives. The healer is here and He is able! What do you need Him to heal?
Exodus 15
Jeremiah 17:14-17
Psalm 24:4
Mark 5: 25-34
3 John 1:2
Many times the outcome appears to be hopeless. Just ask the woman with the issue of blood who had a twelve year menstrual cycle with no end in sight. She was the ultimate picture of brokenness, hopelessness, and despair, but one day she heard about Jesus. This was the day she decided to be bold and risk her last shred of hope and take a huge leap of faith. In one moment, she found more than enough faith to reach out and touch the hem of Jesus' garment, and immediately, she was healed of her affliction.
Jehovah Rophe~ The Lord Who Heals
The children of Israel had tried God's patience to no end! No matter how many times Moses spent in God's presence bringing back a Word to them, they ALWAYS failed to obey and heed ANY warning signs. One day God performed one of the many miracles for them by turning bitter waters sweet, the Lord told them if they would obey and do what was right, He would not bring upon them the diseases which the Egyptians has because He was the Lord who heals them. Now this is in right after the parting of the Red Sea, and we have much of the OT showing just how well they understood the importance of being obedient and fully committed to God. I must be a first cousin to the children of Israel because I can not count the number of times I have failed to obey; continued not to heed; and gone off to do my own thing which has sometimes resulted in a mental, spiritual, financial, or physical healing.
The prophet Jeremiah writes, heal me and I will be healed; save me and I will be saved. The healing powers are for every aspect of our lives. Physical infirmaties are visible, and a part of life, but what about the healing of our minds, and soul? The healing no one can see except Jehovah Rophe? I know I can't be the only person with impure thoughts from time to time? Does anybody else need a healing for their sin-sick souls? All of us are sinners and our Holy God loves us; but hates our sin! Sin, the little big thing that causes a break in our fellowship with our Heavenly Father. We need healing to restore us again to a right relationship with Him. Are you a grudge holder? Only Jehovah Rohpe can heal the hurt that has been done so we can go boldly into our bright future. He said in His Word, only those with clean hands and a pure heart can can ascend to the hill of the Lord.
Jehovah Rophe wants all of us to be well and whole: metally, spiritually, physically, even financially. John writes for us to be well in all things even as our soul prospers, which is THE most important thing. I pray His Shalom will overtake you and if there is anything holding you back from experiencing a whole relationship with our Lord & Savior, I pray you will allow Jehovah Rophe~ The Lord Who Heals to mend the relationship. He is waiting for you with arms wide open; just like my friend who bled for twelve long years and moved in faith to receive her healing~so should we so we may be complete, whole, and healthy in our lives. The healer is here and He is able! What do you need Him to heal?
Exodus 15
Jeremiah 17:14-17
Psalm 24:4
Mark 5: 25-34
3 John 1:2
Tuesday, October 6, 2009
Peace Be Still
It seems almost impossible to have it in our lives. Everywhere we look there is the overwhelming sense of terror mingled with fright, and the unknown is a never-ending nightmare with a barrage of questions that causes everyone in its path to become even more anxious and panicky. There's a constant nagging and gnawing internally that is about to drive you insane! It's presence seems so distant, like a memory from long ago, that you begin to wonder if it was ever really yours in the first place. When did the separation occur? More importantly, would you ever be able to reunite and feel good again? Millions of people long for it, with every fiber of their being they begin to crave it. They search high and look low, but still, it cannot be found. Could it be they are actually looking in the wrong place? They know it exists, but many of us seem to have forgotten that it's so easy to have, is it even real? We find ways to weave it in our conversations, by casually dropping a line about it not being for sale; something we couldn't buy. Many people would never believe it's actually free. That's right! F-R-E-E~ FREE! The best money and purest gold could not buy it, but still those in mega-million dollar homes are without it. Are you still wondering what I'm talking about? I'm talking about peace. Peace of mind; peace of soul; peace period!
We've all been at the end of our rope and felt like we would lose our minds. Or is it just me? But just when you felt your last thread of sanity snap, the engulfing waves of peace washed over you and immediately you felt a presence like never before. Suddenly the load didn't seem SO heavy, and the road up ahead wasn't THAT dim, and life becomes like a box of chocolates and come what may, you realize you can make it!
Jehovah Shalom~ The Lord is Peace
We are first introduced to Jehovah Shalom after the Lord appeared to Gideon and told him, "Peace! Do not be afraid. You are not going to die." The Lord personally telling someone they are not going to die is GREAT news; however, the "do not be afraid" part is what really caught my eye. I believe God is saying the same thing to all of His children right now. Of course He's screaming it over our electronic devices, social networks, and anything else that can become a god in our lives. He is constantly saying, “Do NOT be afraid!" to whatever we are facing and going through. It may be the constant reminders that there is a recession; your place of employment has announced they are going to be laying off; the doctor has done the tests, but now comes the waiting period. God is saying to you, " (fill in your name) Do NOT be afraid!" I will handle whatever it is that has you concerned. I believe that in telling us not to be afraid, He also ask, the simple question "Do you trust me? Do you trust me enough, that I CAN handle whatever is going on in your life?”
In the Hebrew language, Shalom is used as a greeting and also has the deeper meaning behind it for the person to be well- satisfied, healthy, harmonious with themselves, others, and God. In Judges 6, I believe Gideon didn't know what to think when the meat was consumed by fire from the Lord, and when he realized just what had happened, automatically he went into panic mode. In the Bible day, it was a HUGE deal for the Lord to not only appear to a person face to face, but someone to see Him and live. But in his automatic mode of fret and fright, God greets him with Shalom because He wants to assure him that everything is all right. Gideon then builds an alter to the Lord and called it "The Lord is Peace".
Since the Lord is Peace, it’s only befitting that His Son holds the reigning title as being the Prince of Peace. The disciples were first-hand witnesses when Jesus spoke to the storm and commanded, “Peace be still”. I can just about imagine the looks on their faces as instantly there was silence when only nano seconds before Jesus was asleep, the disciples are wide awake, and Mother Nature is cutting up. Why they were up when Jesus was sleep will always be a mystery to me, but I learned two things from that story. One God is ALWAYS there, even when it is in the midst of your life’s storms. He promised He will never leave us or forsake us, and when you’re backed up against the wall, hold Him to His Word! The second thing I learned is that if God is resting in my trial, I should find rest in Him. Just like He spoke to the storm, His arms are wide open as He beckons us to find the peace we've been longing for in His arms. More than anything He desires for you to be satisfied, healthy, and harmonious in Him and with Him.
Judges 6
Mark 4
Hebrews 13:5
We've all been at the end of our rope and felt like we would lose our minds. Or is it just me? But just when you felt your last thread of sanity snap, the engulfing waves of peace washed over you and immediately you felt a presence like never before. Suddenly the load didn't seem SO heavy, and the road up ahead wasn't THAT dim, and life becomes like a box of chocolates and come what may, you realize you can make it!
Jehovah Shalom~ The Lord is Peace
We are first introduced to Jehovah Shalom after the Lord appeared to Gideon and told him, "Peace! Do not be afraid. You are not going to die." The Lord personally telling someone they are not going to die is GREAT news; however, the "do not be afraid" part is what really caught my eye. I believe God is saying the same thing to all of His children right now. Of course He's screaming it over our electronic devices, social networks, and anything else that can become a god in our lives. He is constantly saying, “Do NOT be afraid!" to whatever we are facing and going through. It may be the constant reminders that there is a recession; your place of employment has announced they are going to be laying off; the doctor has done the tests, but now comes the waiting period. God is saying to you, " (fill in your name) Do NOT be afraid!" I will handle whatever it is that has you concerned. I believe that in telling us not to be afraid, He also ask, the simple question "Do you trust me? Do you trust me enough, that I CAN handle whatever is going on in your life?”
In the Hebrew language, Shalom is used as a greeting and also has the deeper meaning behind it for the person to be well- satisfied, healthy, harmonious with themselves, others, and God. In Judges 6, I believe Gideon didn't know what to think when the meat was consumed by fire from the Lord, and when he realized just what had happened, automatically he went into panic mode. In the Bible day, it was a HUGE deal for the Lord to not only appear to a person face to face, but someone to see Him and live. But in his automatic mode of fret and fright, God greets him with Shalom because He wants to assure him that everything is all right. Gideon then builds an alter to the Lord and called it "The Lord is Peace".
Since the Lord is Peace, it’s only befitting that His Son holds the reigning title as being the Prince of Peace. The disciples were first-hand witnesses when Jesus spoke to the storm and commanded, “Peace be still”. I can just about imagine the looks on their faces as instantly there was silence when only nano seconds before Jesus was asleep, the disciples are wide awake, and Mother Nature is cutting up. Why they were up when Jesus was sleep will always be a mystery to me, but I learned two things from that story. One God is ALWAYS there, even when it is in the midst of your life’s storms. He promised He will never leave us or forsake us, and when you’re backed up against the wall, hold Him to His Word! The second thing I learned is that if God is resting in my trial, I should find rest in Him. Just like He spoke to the storm, His arms are wide open as He beckons us to find the peace we've been longing for in His arms. More than anything He desires for you to be satisfied, healthy, and harmonious in Him and with Him.
Judges 6
Mark 4
Hebrews 13:5
Saturday, October 3, 2009
Watch Me
Hagar was between a rock and a hard place. Her mistress Sarai had persuaded her husband to impregnate her, because as of yet there was no heir for Sarai's beloved husband Abram. As Sarai's maidservant, Hagar really couldn't argue with either of them, how could she? She was thought of as hired help and knew it was best to do what she was told. We have to be extremely careful how we treat people. A funny thing happens, the moment Hagar realizes, she's pregnant, she becomes indignant and begins to despise Sarai. As a lowly servant she was able to something the lady of the house could not do; become pregnant. Not to be outdone, Sarai talks it over with her husband and drives Hagar out of their home. Hagar comes to a spring of water where the Angel of the Lord finds her and begins to talk to her.
As the Angel of the Lord spoke to her, he asked her where she was coming from and where was she going, and then told her to do something that would require her to be a big girl. He tells her to go back to her mistress and submit to her. WOW! God has a way of challenging us to do what seems impossible at the time; but by His grace we can do anything. Finally, He gives her the name for the child she is carrying. I'm sure this servant girl was in utter amazement and bewilderment! The God of the universe had just stopped by to speak directly to her, at the lowest point in her life. She was beside herself! I can only imagine how she must have felt the moment she heard "HIS" voice. Is it just me, or do you become like a child on Christmas day when you know God has spoken to you? I get TOO pumped AND excited! I can hardly contain myself! After all, the enemy has sent a gazillion thoughts my way to make me feel like I REALLY am abandoned, unloved, and forgotten, and then~BOOM! A Word from the Lord! Like each of us Hagar had every reason to assume that she was by herself, and her back was up against the wall. Here she was alone, homeless, and to add insult to injury, pregnant.
El Roi~ The God Who Sees
Have you ever felt invisible? Have you ever felt like God had forgotten about you? Has there ever been a moment when you felt like you didn't matter? One of the new shows for the fall line-up is called "The Forgotten", and it the title alone could take up more than half of my autobiography. The other half could be titled "He Came Through". At some point in our lives we have felt that the God of grace, mercy, love, and forgiveness has forgotten about us. How can we not? Everyone else is getting their miracle, blessing, and breakthrough and as far as we know, they haven't EVEN sought Him in prayer or are even thinking that God is up to something in their life. They weren't even expecting a blessing. We don't ask for fortune or fame, just the small things like a job, a life mate, life's comforts, and still~ nothing. Where is God? I can only assume that Hagar felt this way.
My friends hold on! Do not despair, we are not forgotten! Hallelujah!!! I'm sure those tears Hagar was crying dried up once she realized El Roi had stopped by to see about her. Hagar called Him, "You Are the God Who Sees" and then probably was thinking aloud because she said, "Have I seen Him who sees me?" I imagine she was thinking to herself, "This is Abram and Sarai's God, not mine! But He saw ME! He came to where I was and saw ME, Hagar, the servant of Sarai. WOW! He saw ME!!! There was probably no one around for her to share in her excitement, but the fact that He saw her, was more than enough. After that life-changing experience, she COULD go back and humbly submit to Sarai, because God had seen her. Just in case Hagar ever THOUGHT about saying He had forgotten her, God told her to name her son Ishmael which means "God hears". Not only would Hagar have the precious memory that God had seen her, every time she called her sons name she would know that God hears.
Each of us can relax because He is watching us. He hears our prayers and sees our tears and has not forgotten us. Just bask in the news that for rest of your life, His eyes are on YOU. He doesn't go to sleep, doesn't get tired; doesn't get tired of watching over you. His eyes are on you. The same way God stopped by and ministered to Hagar in her darkest hour, will do the same for you. No longer are any of us forgotten because El Roi sees everything and right now His eyes are going back keeping watch over each and every one of us. As He did with Hagar He has a Word just for you, to comfort you in your darkest hour and inspire you to be all that He is calling you to be.
Genesis 16
Psalm 121: 3, 5-8
As the Angel of the Lord spoke to her, he asked her where she was coming from and where was she going, and then told her to do something that would require her to be a big girl. He tells her to go back to her mistress and submit to her. WOW! God has a way of challenging us to do what seems impossible at the time; but by His grace we can do anything. Finally, He gives her the name for the child she is carrying. I'm sure this servant girl was in utter amazement and bewilderment! The God of the universe had just stopped by to speak directly to her, at the lowest point in her life. She was beside herself! I can only imagine how she must have felt the moment she heard "HIS" voice. Is it just me, or do you become like a child on Christmas day when you know God has spoken to you? I get TOO pumped AND excited! I can hardly contain myself! After all, the enemy has sent a gazillion thoughts my way to make me feel like I REALLY am abandoned, unloved, and forgotten, and then~BOOM! A Word from the Lord! Like each of us Hagar had every reason to assume that she was by herself, and her back was up against the wall. Here she was alone, homeless, and to add insult to injury, pregnant.
El Roi~ The God Who Sees
Have you ever felt invisible? Have you ever felt like God had forgotten about you? Has there ever been a moment when you felt like you didn't matter? One of the new shows for the fall line-up is called "The Forgotten", and it the title alone could take up more than half of my autobiography. The other half could be titled "He Came Through". At some point in our lives we have felt that the God of grace, mercy, love, and forgiveness has forgotten about us. How can we not? Everyone else is getting their miracle, blessing, and breakthrough and as far as we know, they haven't EVEN sought Him in prayer or are even thinking that God is up to something in their life. They weren't even expecting a blessing. We don't ask for fortune or fame, just the small things like a job, a life mate, life's comforts, and still~ nothing. Where is God? I can only assume that Hagar felt this way.
My friends hold on! Do not despair, we are not forgotten! Hallelujah!!! I'm sure those tears Hagar was crying dried up once she realized El Roi had stopped by to see about her. Hagar called Him, "You Are the God Who Sees" and then probably was thinking aloud because she said, "Have I seen Him who sees me?" I imagine she was thinking to herself, "This is Abram and Sarai's God, not mine! But He saw ME! He came to where I was and saw ME, Hagar, the servant of Sarai. WOW! He saw ME!!! There was probably no one around for her to share in her excitement, but the fact that He saw her, was more than enough. After that life-changing experience, she COULD go back and humbly submit to Sarai, because God had seen her. Just in case Hagar ever THOUGHT about saying He had forgotten her, God told her to name her son Ishmael which means "God hears". Not only would Hagar have the precious memory that God had seen her, every time she called her sons name she would know that God hears.
Each of us can relax because He is watching us. He hears our prayers and sees our tears and has not forgotten us. Just bask in the news that for rest of your life, His eyes are on YOU. He doesn't go to sleep, doesn't get tired; doesn't get tired of watching over you. His eyes are on you. The same way God stopped by and ministered to Hagar in her darkest hour, will do the same for you. No longer are any of us forgotten because El Roi sees everything and right now His eyes are going back keeping watch over each and every one of us. As He did with Hagar He has a Word just for you, to comfort you in your darkest hour and inspire you to be all that He is calling you to be.
Genesis 16
Psalm 121: 3, 5-8
Wednesday, September 30, 2009
Cover Me
I learned a very simple song in my VBS days, and the lyrics go something like this, "I'm my Beloved and He is mine. His banner over me is love. (Repeat 2X) His banner over me is love." I remember singing my little heart out and had no clue about what a banner was or any other love outside of my very protective and nurturing family. I'm sure I had some silly grin plastered over my face as the music leader strummed the guitar and we sang along like good children did back then. Used as a sign of victory over defeat, banners can also represent a covering and protection, a shield of some sort. The Word says, “He will rejoice over you with gladness. He will quiet you with His love."
Jehovah Nissi~The Lord is my Banner
Are you waving the flag of victory? Or the doo-rag of defeat? Have you thrown in the towel? Or, are you standing boldly on the Word of God declaring the battle belongs to Him and you begin to praise your way out? With Jehovah Nissi, we are VICTORIOUS! We are OVERCOMERS! We are WINNERS! We can find rest in His shadow while being covered with His feathers and find refuge in His wings. There is nothing like taking shelter in His arms. NOTHING!
Moses had a very long day fighting against the Amalekites. But before Moses could fight against the enemies of God, he had to go back and forth with the wayward children of Israel. They ask him this question in vs. 7, "Is the Lord among us or not?" I have asked the same question in my life. Where is God? When is He going to come through? How much longer do I have to wait? And then suddenly, out of nowhere, He not only shows up, He shows OUT! I encourage you to read the entire story in your quiet time, but for now I want to share the MOST important part of the story with you. God told Moses to write the victory down so his apprentice Joshua would not only hear about the good news, but remember it. Moses then builds an alter and calls it Jehovah Nissi for the victory which God had caused His chosen people to win against the Amalekites.
I love how God instructed Moses to leave a remembrance for young Joshua who would eventually lead the children of Israel into the Promised Land. We all have testimonies about how has God brought us out, over the test and through the trial. Somehow, it casually slips our minds how He's made ways out of no way, and yet all too often after the parting of the Red Sea in our lives we do the unthinkable; we seem to forget what He has done. Hmmmmmmmm!!! God wanted a continual reminder for these disobedient, wayward, mumbling/grumbling people to serve as a reference for how He had performed something HUGE so they would not forget. Some commentary writers compare the Amalekites in the story to satan. He is SUCH a defeated foe and NOT a threat, but he still comes back time and time again to discourage us, derail our faith and deceive us, and amazingly, we LET him!
With Jehovah Nissi, there is never a need to wave ANY flags of surrender, because we have already won. His covering over us signals to the devil that playtime is OVER!!! We are sons and daughters of the Most High God and it's time for him to back up!!! Each of us have numerous reminders of how he has provided time and time again. We know beyond a shadow of doubt how we got into something and it is ONLY by the grace of God, that we made it out. We don't care what they say at the job, we know it's only the goodness of God that has kept us employed while CNN keeps perpetual reminders that the nation is in a recession; but there is NO lack in the kingdom. The ONLY reminder I need is Jehovah Nissi, my banner, my protection, my shield, my covering, and my strong tower. Just like God wanted Joshua to have a reminder, He wants us to have one too! If He was a Banner back then, He is STILL a Banner today, tomorrow, and forevermore.
Exodus 17
2 Chronicles 20:15
Psalm 91
Zephaniah 3:17
Jehovah Nissi~The Lord is my Banner
Are you waving the flag of victory? Or the doo-rag of defeat? Have you thrown in the towel? Or, are you standing boldly on the Word of God declaring the battle belongs to Him and you begin to praise your way out? With Jehovah Nissi, we are VICTORIOUS! We are OVERCOMERS! We are WINNERS! We can find rest in His shadow while being covered with His feathers and find refuge in His wings. There is nothing like taking shelter in His arms. NOTHING!
Moses had a very long day fighting against the Amalekites. But before Moses could fight against the enemies of God, he had to go back and forth with the wayward children of Israel. They ask him this question in vs. 7, "Is the Lord among us or not?" I have asked the same question in my life. Where is God? When is He going to come through? How much longer do I have to wait? And then suddenly, out of nowhere, He not only shows up, He shows OUT! I encourage you to read the entire story in your quiet time, but for now I want to share the MOST important part of the story with you. God told Moses to write the victory down so his apprentice Joshua would not only hear about the good news, but remember it. Moses then builds an alter and calls it Jehovah Nissi for the victory which God had caused His chosen people to win against the Amalekites.
I love how God instructed Moses to leave a remembrance for young Joshua who would eventually lead the children of Israel into the Promised Land. We all have testimonies about how has God brought us out, over the test and through the trial. Somehow, it casually slips our minds how He's made ways out of no way, and yet all too often after the parting of the Red Sea in our lives we do the unthinkable; we seem to forget what He has done. Hmmmmmmmm!!! God wanted a continual reminder for these disobedient, wayward, mumbling/grumbling people to serve as a reference for how He had performed something HUGE so they would not forget. Some commentary writers compare the Amalekites in the story to satan. He is SUCH a defeated foe and NOT a threat, but he still comes back time and time again to discourage us, derail our faith and deceive us, and amazingly, we LET him!
With Jehovah Nissi, there is never a need to wave ANY flags of surrender, because we have already won. His covering over us signals to the devil that playtime is OVER!!! We are sons and daughters of the Most High God and it's time for him to back up!!! Each of us have numerous reminders of how he has provided time and time again. We know beyond a shadow of doubt how we got into something and it is ONLY by the grace of God, that we made it out. We don't care what they say at the job, we know it's only the goodness of God that has kept us employed while CNN keeps perpetual reminders that the nation is in a recession; but there is NO lack in the kingdom. The ONLY reminder I need is Jehovah Nissi, my banner, my protection, my shield, my covering, and my strong tower. Just like God wanted Joshua to have a reminder, He wants us to have one too! If He was a Banner back then, He is STILL a Banner today, tomorrow, and forevermore.
Exodus 17
2 Chronicles 20:15
Psalm 91
Zephaniah 3:17
I Wanna Be!
I love the song "I Wanna Be" by J Moss with PJAM. He is singing his soul out about all he wants to be for God's use and glory. I love the part where he sings, "I want to be inseparable I wanna be all you want me to be." Isn't that what it's all about? At the end of the day after I've gotten it wrong on so many different accounts and messed up another opportunity, I still desire to be all He wants me to be. I want to the the righteousness of Christ! I want to go where He wants me to go! I want to do what He wants me to do! You should know, by the time J is singing the part, “I’ll do it! I'll do it! Just send me Lord I'll go!" I'm like HECK YEAH that's me! The truth is at times it seems almost impossible to live a life fully committed to God AND live in this sin-filled world. Every day, temptations present themselves in our lives, but Paul instructs us to present our bodies as living sacrifices, holy and acceptable which is our reasonable service unto God.
The Bible says be holy as I am holy. OUCH!!! Real truth for our unholy lives. Merriam defines holy as exalted or worthy of complete devotion as one perfect in goodness and righteousness. The Greek word for holy is "hagios" which means sacredness, being consecrated to God, or worthy of God, free from impurity.
Elohim Kadoshim~ The Holy God
God wants us to be just like Him! We are his workmanship, created in His image, joint heirs to an everlasting Kingdom! We are sanctified by the lamb of the blood because God who is Holy and wants us to be Holy like Him, HATES sin! Sin~ a very small word, but yet such an enormous problem in all of our lives. It's easy to label what we consider sin to be: murder, sexual sins, lust, envy, and on and on. NEWSFLASH! ALL sin is unrighteousness in His eyes! That's the wonderful news about sanctification-the cleansing process that restores us and makes us righteous in His eyes. I pray people will begin to realize that they can't do ANYTHING to earn salvation; it really is God's gift to us (grace) through Jesus. Once we can accept the fact that He has paid an enormous price on Calvary for the sins of the world, it's easier to begin to emulate our Heavenly Father. I know we mess up, but we can always praise God for being Jehovah Mekaddishem the Lord who Sanctifies and chose us to be His very own chosen generation, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, His own special people. Every day we can worship Him for being Jehovah Tsidkenu The Lord our Righteousness who makes us righteous through faith in Jesus Christ. Take time to bless Him for being El Bereeth, The God of Covenant who is longsuffering and wants none of us to perish. The price of our salvation has already been bought through the blood of the Lamb! Hallelujah!!!
It's 1:42 in the morning here, and as I close out this blog and prepare for bed, I still desire to be just like Him so I can be used by Him. In Psalm 24, David asked the question, "Who can go up to the house of the Lord? Who may stand in His holy place?" The answer is in verse 4, and all I can say is everyday I'm trying because more than anything I really do want to be just like Him.
Genesis 1:27
Psalm 24:3
Jeremiah 33:16
Romans 5:21
Romans 8:17
Romans 12:1
1 Corinthians 1:30
1 Peter 1:16
2 Peter 3:9
1 John 5:17
The Bible says be holy as I am holy. OUCH!!! Real truth for our unholy lives. Merriam defines holy as exalted or worthy of complete devotion as one perfect in goodness and righteousness. The Greek word for holy is "hagios" which means sacredness, being consecrated to God, or worthy of God, free from impurity.
Elohim Kadoshim~ The Holy God
God wants us to be just like Him! We are his workmanship, created in His image, joint heirs to an everlasting Kingdom! We are sanctified by the lamb of the blood because God who is Holy and wants us to be Holy like Him, HATES sin! Sin~ a very small word, but yet such an enormous problem in all of our lives. It's easy to label what we consider sin to be: murder, sexual sins, lust, envy, and on and on. NEWSFLASH! ALL sin is unrighteousness in His eyes! That's the wonderful news about sanctification-the cleansing process that restores us and makes us righteous in His eyes. I pray people will begin to realize that they can't do ANYTHING to earn salvation; it really is God's gift to us (grace) through Jesus. Once we can accept the fact that He has paid an enormous price on Calvary for the sins of the world, it's easier to begin to emulate our Heavenly Father. I know we mess up, but we can always praise God for being Jehovah Mekaddishem the Lord who Sanctifies and chose us to be His very own chosen generation, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, His own special people. Every day we can worship Him for being Jehovah Tsidkenu The Lord our Righteousness who makes us righteous through faith in Jesus Christ. Take time to bless Him for being El Bereeth, The God of Covenant who is longsuffering and wants none of us to perish. The price of our salvation has already been bought through the blood of the Lamb! Hallelujah!!!
It's 1:42 in the morning here, and as I close out this blog and prepare for bed, I still desire to be just like Him so I can be used by Him. In Psalm 24, David asked the question, "Who can go up to the house of the Lord? Who may stand in His holy place?" The answer is in verse 4, and all I can say is everyday I'm trying because more than anything I really do want to be just like Him.
Genesis 1:27
Psalm 24:3
Jeremiah 33:16
Romans 5:21
Romans 8:17
Romans 12:1
1 Corinthians 1:30
1 Peter 1:16
2 Peter 3:9
1 John 5:17
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