Points to Ponder
6 The LORD works righteousness
and justice for all who are oppressed.
7 He made known his ways to Moses,
his acts to the people of Israel.
8 The LORD is merciful and gracious,
slow to anger and abounding in steadfast love.
9 He will not always chide,
nor will he keep his anger forever.
10 He does not deal with us according to our sins,
nor repay us according to our iniquities.
Points to Ponder:
Do you see it? Every verse in this selection exudes grace. Without the Gospel, without God, what does each one of us deserve? Oppression, ignorance, justice, wrath, anger and penalty. But by God's grace what do we (His children) receive? Righteousness, justice, insight and knowledge of the Holy, mercy, grace, abundant steadfast love and forgiveness. Can we rejoice in that today? By His grace, you and I didn't get what we deserved. Hallelujah!!
Diane
Diane Hunt is the Director of Addiction Recovery Ministries and Acting Director of Development at America's KESWICK. In addition to her Keswick responsibilities which keep her busy, she loves to read, write and teach, travel and laugh with her grandchildren. Diane has been married to her husband John over 25 years. She has 2 children, 2+ grandchildren, 3 step-children, and 7 step-grandchildren.
Friday, July 30, 2010
Thursday, July 29, 2010
He Acts For Those Who Wait
Isaiah 64:4 From of old no one has heard
or perceived by the ear,
no eye has seen a God besides you,
who acts for those who wait for him.
A not-so-subtle reminder today of God's care and provision for each of us.
How often do we run ahead of God trying this way and that to make things work out?
Oh, sister, I shudder to think how many times I've taken things into my own hands and missed the opportunity to be wowed by the hand of God.
I can think of several occasions when I chose to wait past the 9th, 10th and even 11th hour believing God would indeed act on my behalf - and indeed He did in amazing, unexpected ways. I wish I could say this is my norm, but alas it is not.
Admittedly, it seems to be a fine line between waiting for God in faith, and doing all that is up to me to do. All too often people say "but God gave us a brain to figure it out." That thinking will stomp all over a walk of faith.
I am not suggesting or encouraging laziness - the walk of a believer is by no means passive. Waiting for God is heart attitude of rest, peace, trust and faith, believing God will act on our behalf in His perfect time.
Diane
Diane Hunt is the Director of Addiction Recovery Ministries and Acting Director of Development at America's KESWICK. In addition to her Keswick responsibilities which keep her busy, she loves to read, write and teach, travel and laugh with her grandchildren. Diane has been married to her husband John over 25 years. She has 2 children, 2+ grandchildren, 3 step-children, and 7 step-grandchildren.
or perceived by the ear,
no eye has seen a God besides you,
who acts for those who wait for him.
A not-so-subtle reminder today of God's care and provision for each of us.
How often do we run ahead of God trying this way and that to make things work out?
Oh, sister, I shudder to think how many times I've taken things into my own hands and missed the opportunity to be wowed by the hand of God.
I can think of several occasions when I chose to wait past the 9th, 10th and even 11th hour believing God would indeed act on my behalf - and indeed He did in amazing, unexpected ways. I wish I could say this is my norm, but alas it is not.
Admittedly, it seems to be a fine line between waiting for God in faith, and doing all that is up to me to do. All too often people say "but God gave us a brain to figure it out." That thinking will stomp all over a walk of faith.
I am not suggesting or encouraging laziness - the walk of a believer is by no means passive. Waiting for God is heart attitude of rest, peace, trust and faith, believing God will act on our behalf in His perfect time.
Diane
Diane Hunt is the Director of Addiction Recovery Ministries and Acting Director of Development at America's KESWICK. In addition to her Keswick responsibilities which keep her busy, she loves to read, write and teach, travel and laugh with her grandchildren. Diane has been married to her husband John over 25 years. She has 2 children, 2+ grandchildren, 3 step-children, and 7 step-grandchildren.
Wednesday, July 28, 2010
Shelter of the Most High
Not too long ago we were encouraged to memorize Psalm 91. When I attempt to memorize scripture I read it and listen to the scripture on a CD in my car. Over the course of the week the words begin to come to my remembrance. As I seek the Lord for what He has for me in the scripture I enjoy reading various translations.
Today I would ask you to consider with me the first three verses of Ps. 91 in various translations:
1) 1 He who dwells in the secret place of the Most High Shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty. 2 I will say of the LORD, "He is my refuge and my fortress; My God, in Him I will trust." 3 Surely He shall deliver you from the snare of the fowler And from the perilous pestilence. (New King James)
2) 1 He who dwells in the shelter of the Most High Will abide in the shadow of the Almighty. 2 I will say to the LORD, "My refuge and my fortress, My God, in whom I trust!" 3 For it is He who delivers you from the snare of the trapper And from the deadly pestilence. (New Amercian Standard)
3) 1 Those who live in the shelter of the Most High will find rest in the shadow of the Almighty. 2 This I declare of the LORD: He alone is my refuge, my place of safety; he is my God, and I am trusting him. 3 For he will rescue you from every trap and protect you from the fatal plague. (New Living Translation)
4) 1 He who dwells in the shelter of the Most High
will rest in the shadow of the Almighty.
2 I will say of the LORD, "He is my refuge and my fortress,
my God, in whom I trust."
3 Surely he will save you from the fowler's snare
and from the deadly pestilence. (New International Version)
The word "snare" or "trap" comes from the Hebrew word "pach." It is a metallic sheet pounded thin; it is also called a spring net. "Pach" comes from the Hebrew word "pakh" meaning to spread a net, to be snared. The "fowler" comes from the Hebrew word "yaquwsh" meaning a snarer. The word "pestilence" comes from the Hebrew word "deber" meaning a pestilence in the sense of destroying, or plague.
The scripture is therefore clearly telling us that we have an enemy who is trying to trap us in a net for the purpose of destroying us. It also encourages us that there is One who can save us.
Each one of us likely has something in our lives that the fowler can use to ensnare or trap us. That thing will eventually destroy us if we do not get off the cycle of destruction. On that cycle we find ourselves in a place of sin, conviction of sin, and then we repent only to repeat the cycle and sin all over again. It is so discouraging. We may even begin to feel God is ready to give up on us. But wait..... You may want to consider that sin as a "trap" that easily can ensnare you and then consider the encouragement in Psalm 91. If you choose this day to make the Lord your refuge, and ask Him to show you the way to be set free from that thing, if you will allow Him to be your fortress (defense) and you trust in Him, He is the one who can deliver you from that snare of the trapper and the deadly pestilence. Praise God, He is on your side. For He is the Most High God, He is Almighty, He is your Lord, He is God and there is none like Him.
Consider the following prayer:
Father, I am tired of the cycle of destruction. I am tired of coming to you convicted of my sin, seeking your forgiveness and then finding myself doing the same old thing again. I cannot set myself free. Father, I lay myself at your feet. I desire to follow your Word and dwell in your shelter and abide in you. Show me the way. I invite you to be my refuge and my fortress. I declare my trust in you. With thanks and praise I pray in the mighty name of your Son, my Lord, Jesus.
Patricia L. Wenzel
Graduate of Women of Character
Note: In writing this devotional I used the various translations listed along with Strong's Concordance, by James Strong, LL.D., S.T.D.
Today I would ask you to consider with me the first three verses of Ps. 91 in various translations:
1) 1 He who dwells in the secret place of the Most High Shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty. 2 I will say of the LORD, "He is my refuge and my fortress; My God, in Him I will trust." 3 Surely He shall deliver you from the snare of the fowler And from the perilous pestilence. (New King James)
2) 1 He who dwells in the shelter of the Most High Will abide in the shadow of the Almighty. 2 I will say to the LORD, "My refuge and my fortress, My God, in whom I trust!" 3 For it is He who delivers you from the snare of the trapper And from the deadly pestilence. (New Amercian Standard)
3) 1 Those who live in the shelter of the Most High will find rest in the shadow of the Almighty. 2 This I declare of the LORD: He alone is my refuge, my place of safety; he is my God, and I am trusting him. 3 For he will rescue you from every trap and protect you from the fatal plague. (New Living Translation)
4) 1 He who dwells in the shelter of the Most High
will rest in the shadow of the Almighty.
2 I will say of the LORD, "He is my refuge and my fortress,
my God, in whom I trust."
3 Surely he will save you from the fowler's snare
and from the deadly pestilence. (New International Version)
The word "snare" or "trap" comes from the Hebrew word "pach." It is a metallic sheet pounded thin; it is also called a spring net. "Pach" comes from the Hebrew word "pakh" meaning to spread a net, to be snared. The "fowler" comes from the Hebrew word "yaquwsh" meaning a snarer. The word "pestilence" comes from the Hebrew word "deber" meaning a pestilence in the sense of destroying, or plague.
The scripture is therefore clearly telling us that we have an enemy who is trying to trap us in a net for the purpose of destroying us. It also encourages us that there is One who can save us.
Each one of us likely has something in our lives that the fowler can use to ensnare or trap us. That thing will eventually destroy us if we do not get off the cycle of destruction. On that cycle we find ourselves in a place of sin, conviction of sin, and then we repent only to repeat the cycle and sin all over again. It is so discouraging. We may even begin to feel God is ready to give up on us. But wait..... You may want to consider that sin as a "trap" that easily can ensnare you and then consider the encouragement in Psalm 91. If you choose this day to make the Lord your refuge, and ask Him to show you the way to be set free from that thing, if you will allow Him to be your fortress (defense) and you trust in Him, He is the one who can deliver you from that snare of the trapper and the deadly pestilence. Praise God, He is on your side. For He is the Most High God, He is Almighty, He is your Lord, He is God and there is none like Him.
Consider the following prayer:
Father, I am tired of the cycle of destruction. I am tired of coming to you convicted of my sin, seeking your forgiveness and then finding myself doing the same old thing again. I cannot set myself free. Father, I lay myself at your feet. I desire to follow your Word and dwell in your shelter and abide in you. Show me the way. I invite you to be my refuge and my fortress. I declare my trust in you. With thanks and praise I pray in the mighty name of your Son, my Lord, Jesus.
Patricia L. Wenzel
Graduate of Women of Character
Note: In writing this devotional I used the various translations listed along with Strong's Concordance, by James Strong, LL.D., S.T.D.
Tuesday, July 27, 2010
Are You Sure?
1 Samuel 8:4,5, 10-22
4 So all the elders of Israel gathered together and came to Samuel at Ramah. 5 They said to him, "You are old, and your sons do not walk in your ways; now appoint a king to lead us, such as all the other nations have."
10 Samuel told all the words of the LORD to the people who were asking him for a king. 11 He said, "This is what the king who will reign over you will do: He will take your sons and make them serve with his chariots and horses, and they will run in front of his chariots. 12 Some he will assign to be commanders of thousands and commanders of fifties, and others to plow his ground and reap his harvest, and still others to make weapons of war and equipment for his chariots. 13 He will take your daughters to be perfumers and cooks and bakers. 14 He will take the best of your fields and vineyards and olive groves and give them to his attendants. 15 He will take a tenth of your grain and of your vintage and give it to his officials and attendants. 16 Your menservants and maidservants and the best of your cattle and donkeys he will take for his own use. 17 He will take a tenth of your flocks, and you yourselves will become his slaves. 18 When that day comes, you will cry out for relief from the king you have chosen, and the LORD will not answer you in that day."
19 But the people refused to listen to Samuel. "No!" they said. "We want a king over us. 20 Then we will be like all the other nations, with a king to lead us and to go out before us and fight our battles."
21 When Samuel heard all that the people said, he repeated it before the LORD. 22 The LORD answered, "Listen to them and give them a king."
We humans can be so stubborn! There are times when we set our minds on what we want so that we can't hear the warnings...the consequences that may or will result from the choice we make. I'm sorry to say that not even Christians are exempt from this behavior.
There is an old saying that most moms have used at one time or another. I know I did! "Just because all your friends jump off a bridge it doesn't mean you should!" Teens always want to follow the crowd...well not just teens but adults too. For some reason we just blind ourselves to the adverse effects of "following the crowd." All we see is what we want...we covet.
Things were no different back in the time of Samuel in the Old Testament. He was the Judge of Israel and the Jews came to him begging for a king...just because everybody else had one. They wanted to be like everybody else. They forgot they weren't like everybody else. God had set them apart to be His "Chosen People" so that everybody else would want to be like them.
Samuel made no bones about it and told them exactly what would happen. As you read the words from this passage you see Samuel gave them the message from God along with telling them what they would get in addition to a king. They didn't get it. They didn't see past the "But I want."
And God gave them what they wanted. How this broke His heart! God wanted the best for His chosen people. His people chose the worst. They got what they asked for.
How often do you and I choose our own way and not God;s? I can say for myself it has never turned out well. But the times I rested in His will for me there was always blessing. I may not have recognized it at first but it was there.
We ARE children of the KING and He wants His best for us. Why would we choose the worst thing when our Father in heaven knows exactly what is best for us? Maybe the next time we are in a battle of wills we need to just remember Samuel and the people of Israel and their poor choice. It's always easier to let go of our will and follow the will of the Lord.
Are you sure you want what you are asking for?
MaryAnn
MaryAnn and John Kiernan have been married for 36 years, have 2 grown/married sons and are the proud grandparents of three grandsons and one granddaughter! She serves at America's Keswick as a Biblical Counselor and also as Intake Coordinator for the Colony of Mercy. Her life verse is Romans 8:28.
4 So all the elders of Israel gathered together and came to Samuel at Ramah. 5 They said to him, "You are old, and your sons do not walk in your ways; now appoint a king to lead us, such as all the other nations have."
10 Samuel told all the words of the LORD to the people who were asking him for a king. 11 He said, "This is what the king who will reign over you will do: He will take your sons and make them serve with his chariots and horses, and they will run in front of his chariots. 12 Some he will assign to be commanders of thousands and commanders of fifties, and others to plow his ground and reap his harvest, and still others to make weapons of war and equipment for his chariots. 13 He will take your daughters to be perfumers and cooks and bakers. 14 He will take the best of your fields and vineyards and olive groves and give them to his attendants. 15 He will take a tenth of your grain and of your vintage and give it to his officials and attendants. 16 Your menservants and maidservants and the best of your cattle and donkeys he will take for his own use. 17 He will take a tenth of your flocks, and you yourselves will become his slaves. 18 When that day comes, you will cry out for relief from the king you have chosen, and the LORD will not answer you in that day."
19 But the people refused to listen to Samuel. "No!" they said. "We want a king over us. 20 Then we will be like all the other nations, with a king to lead us and to go out before us and fight our battles."
21 When Samuel heard all that the people said, he repeated it before the LORD. 22 The LORD answered, "Listen to them and give them a king."
We humans can be so stubborn! There are times when we set our minds on what we want so that we can't hear the warnings...the consequences that may or will result from the choice we make. I'm sorry to say that not even Christians are exempt from this behavior.
There is an old saying that most moms have used at one time or another. I know I did! "Just because all your friends jump off a bridge it doesn't mean you should!" Teens always want to follow the crowd...well not just teens but adults too. For some reason we just blind ourselves to the adverse effects of "following the crowd." All we see is what we want...we covet.
Things were no different back in the time of Samuel in the Old Testament. He was the Judge of Israel and the Jews came to him begging for a king...just because everybody else had one. They wanted to be like everybody else. They forgot they weren't like everybody else. God had set them apart to be His "Chosen People" so that everybody else would want to be like them.
Samuel made no bones about it and told them exactly what would happen. As you read the words from this passage you see Samuel gave them the message from God along with telling them what they would get in addition to a king. They didn't get it. They didn't see past the "But I want."
And God gave them what they wanted. How this broke His heart! God wanted the best for His chosen people. His people chose the worst. They got what they asked for.
How often do you and I choose our own way and not God;s? I can say for myself it has never turned out well. But the times I rested in His will for me there was always blessing. I may not have recognized it at first but it was there.
We ARE children of the KING and He wants His best for us. Why would we choose the worst thing when our Father in heaven knows exactly what is best for us? Maybe the next time we are in a battle of wills we need to just remember Samuel and the people of Israel and their poor choice. It's always easier to let go of our will and follow the will of the Lord.
Are you sure you want what you are asking for?
MaryAnn
MaryAnn and John Kiernan have been married for 36 years, have 2 grown/married sons and are the proud grandparents of three grandsons and one granddaughter! She serves at America's Keswick as a Biblical Counselor and also as Intake Coordinator for the Colony of Mercy. Her life verse is Romans 8:28.
Monday, July 26, 2010
Digging Deeper Psalm 103:6-10
Correction: Last week (Wednesday, July 21st) I wrote a devotional titled "That He May Be Glorified." In it I inadvertently misreferenced the Scripture as Psalm 61:1-3 rather than Isaiah 61:1-3. I should know better than to try to write while I'm on vacation, my brain must have been in vacation mode. I apologize for my error.
Digging Deeper Psalm 103:6-10
How are you doing with your meditation and memorization? I am a few weeks behind but am working to catch up. Don't worry if you have fallen behind, start anew this week. Every Scripture you commit to your heart has value to you now and forever.
6 The LORD works righteousness
and justice for all who are oppressed.
7 He made known his ways to Moses,
his acts to the people of Israel.
8 The LORD is merciful and gracious,
slow to anger and abounding in steadfast love.
9 He will not always chide,
nor will he keep his anger forever.
10 He does not deal with us according to our sins,
nor repay us according to our iniquities.
Commentary - A Psalm of David:
Truly God is good to all... He is in a special manner good to Israel...He has revealed himself and his grace to us...Divine revelation is one of the greatest of divine favours, for God restores us to himself by revealing himself to us, and gives us all good by giving us knowledge... He has never been rigorous and severe with us, but always tender, full of compassion, and ready to forgive...It is in his nature to be so...He is not soon angry, v.8. He is slow to anger, bears long with those that are very provoking, defers punishing, that he may give space to repent, and does not speedily execute the sentence of his law. Though he signifies his displeasure against us for our sins by the rebukes of Providence, and the reproaches of our own consciences, yet he will not always keep us in pain and terror, but, after the spirit of bondage, will give the spirit of adoption. [Matthew Henry's Commentary in One Volume pg.688]
Diane Hunt is the Director of Addiction Recovery Ministries and Acting Director of Development at America's KESWICK. In addition to her Keswick responsibilities which keep her busy, she loves to read, write and teach, travel and laugh with her grandchildren. Diane has been married to her husband John over 25 years. She has 2 children, 2+ grandchildren, 3 step-children, and 7 step-grandchildren.
Digging Deeper Psalm 103:6-10
How are you doing with your meditation and memorization? I am a few weeks behind but am working to catch up. Don't worry if you have fallen behind, start anew this week. Every Scripture you commit to your heart has value to you now and forever.
6 The LORD works righteousness
and justice for all who are oppressed.
7 He made known his ways to Moses,
his acts to the people of Israel.
8 The LORD is merciful and gracious,
slow to anger and abounding in steadfast love.
9 He will not always chide,
nor will he keep his anger forever.
10 He does not deal with us according to our sins,
nor repay us according to our iniquities.
Commentary - A Psalm of David:
Truly God is good to all... He is in a special manner good to Israel...He has revealed himself and his grace to us...Divine revelation is one of the greatest of divine favours, for God restores us to himself by revealing himself to us, and gives us all good by giving us knowledge... He has never been rigorous and severe with us, but always tender, full of compassion, and ready to forgive...It is in his nature to be so...He is not soon angry, v.8. He is slow to anger, bears long with those that are very provoking, defers punishing, that he may give space to repent, and does not speedily execute the sentence of his law. Though he signifies his displeasure against us for our sins by the rebukes of Providence, and the reproaches of our own consciences, yet he will not always keep us in pain and terror, but, after the spirit of bondage, will give the spirit of adoption. [Matthew Henry's Commentary in One Volume pg.688]
Diane Hunt is the Director of Addiction Recovery Ministries and Acting Director of Development at America's KESWICK. In addition to her Keswick responsibilities which keep her busy, she loves to read, write and teach, travel and laugh with her grandchildren. Diane has been married to her husband John over 25 years. She has 2 children, 2+ grandchildren, 3 step-children, and 7 step-grandchildren.
Friday, July 23, 2010
Digging Deeper Psalm 103:1-5
Points to Ponder
1. Bless the LORD, O my soul; and all that is within me, bless His holy name!
2. Bless the LORD, O my soul, and forget not all His benefits:
3. Who forgives all your iniquities, Who heals all your diseases,
4. Who redeems your life from destruction,
Who crowns you with lovingkindness and tender mercies,
5. Who satisfies your mouth with good things, So that your youth is renewed like the eagle's.
How did it go this week? Was your soul blessed; stirred up and encouraged at the remembrance of His benefits, His salvation, His tender mercies, His lovingkindness? I know that mine was!
Dear sisters, should you, in today's pondering, discover that you have fallen asleep and are no longer pondering the things of God I encourage you to wake up and tell your soul to bless the Lord!! If you have to, make a list and with your voice thank God for all that He has done for you.
Thursday, July 22, 2010
"BUT MY GOD SHALL SUPPLY ALL YOUR NEEDS. . ."
If you are like me, whenever I have read this verse (Phil. 4:19), I have always kind of assumed that it meant my PHYSICAL needs -- whatever they might be. However, something happened in the life of a friend of mine this week that got me to thinking differently about it.
My long-time friend lost her brother quite unexpectedly. In fact, he had just seen his doctor the day before he died and was told he had some sort of viral infection. It was not, and he succumbed to a fatal heart attack. My friend, who has had several major upsets in her life in recent years, was totally devastated by the news. BUT GOD (aren't those amazing words), already knew what was going to come into to her life and He arranged for members of her family to make a "surprise" visit so they were there with her and able to give her the sad news.
My friend had just, a few days before, had a long, lovely talk with her brother. Once again, that was no "accident." God was preparing her with precious memories of that last earthly conversation until she sees her brother again in glory and they can pick up where they left off.
Upon returning home from her brother's services, my friend received a lovely sympathy card and note from someone whom she had no reason to expect to hear from at all, much less in such a loving manner.
Call them "accidents," or "surprises" or even "random acts of kindness," they are all expressions of God meeting her needs. Not her physical needs this time, but her spiritual and emotional needs. He carefully planned every detail surrounding this tragedy in her life and surrounded her with people to meet her emotional needs. Arms to hug her, shoulders to cry on, words of comfort to bring her peace - all orchestrated by her loving Father who knew what she would need and when she would need it.
My God, thank you for meeting every need we have ever had, or will ever have in the future, according to your riches in glory by Christ Jesus.
Lynn Randall
Lynn Randall is the Director of Human Resources at America's KESWICK. She is active in her church and is a gifted planner and organizer. She has a real heart for people as evidenced by her care, concern and practical encouragement.
DIGGING DEEPER
Psalm 103:4,5
who redeems your life from the pit,
who crowns you with steadfast love and mercy,
who satisfies you with good
so that your youth is renewed like the eagle's.
Wednesday, July 21, 2010
That He May Be Glorified
Psalm 61:1-3
1 The Spirit of the Lord GOD is upon me,
because the LORD has anointed me
to bring good news to the poor;
he has sent me to bind up the brokenhearted,
to proclaim liberty to the captives,
and the opening of the prison to those who are bound;
2 to proclaim the year of the LORD's favor,
and the day of vengeance of our God;
to comfort all who mourn;
3 to grant to those who mourn in Zion-
to give them a beautiful headdress instead of ashes,
the oil of gladness instead of mourning,
the garment of praise instead of a faint spirit;
that they may be called oaks of righteousness,
the planting of the LORD, that he may be glorified.
A messianic passage for it describes Jesus Christ perfectly, for He and the Spirit are One. He was anointed/appointed to bring Good News to the poor - and not only did He bring the Good News He IS the Good News. He binds up the broken-hearted. He proclaims liberty, FREEDOM to those in bondage and opens the prison doors to those bound.
You don't need to have a substance addiction to be in bondage. You can be in bondage to the flesh, or unforgiveness, a loose tongue or a credit card. Perhaps you are bound by grief that has consumed you for years or depression or panic attacks or your past. Jesus came to set the captives free!! He came to set YOU free.
Will you let go of IT and cling to Jesus?He comforts those who mourn and replaces the ashes we have made of our lives with a beautiful headdress, our mourning with the oil of gladness and praise instead of despair or a faint spirit.
Why? Why would Jesus do all of those things? Why would Jesus do any of those things? That we may be called oaks of righteousness - His planting. THAT HE MAY BE GLORIFIED.
Diane
Diane Hunt is the Director of Addiction Recovery Ministries and Acting Director of Development at America's KESWICK. In addition to her Keswick responsibilities which keep her busy, she loves to read, write and teach, travel and laugh with her grandchildren. Diane has been married to her husband John over 25 years. She has 2 children, 2+ grandchildren, 3 step-children, and 7 step-grandchildren.
DIGGING DEEPER
Psalm 103:2,3
Bless the LORD, O my soul, and forget not all his benefits,
who forgives all your iniquity, who heals all your diseases,
Tuesday, July 20, 2010
WHAT'S YOUR JOB DESCRIPTION?
It has been my practice for over 40 years to have a quiet time with the Lord each morning. After I do my normal reading, I write what I call a "Letter to Jesus." Sometimes my "Letter" includes requests and cares, other times I just "talk" to the Lord, and yet other times I write my "concerns" or some might call them my "complaints" about others. No matter what my comments may entail, I always end my writing by saying, "I love you, Jesus." Then it is my turn to be quiet and to listen.
I have always heard the same words. They may come through softly and gently, or they may come through loud and strong, but however they sound, the words are always the same, "I love you, too, Marilyn!!!" What a way to start a day!
Recently I wrote in my journal, and I spent most of my time telling the Lord what I thought He should do to "straighten" others out, but then as I listened, this is what I heard in my head and this is what I wrote: "I will take care of the chastening. It is not in your job description. Rest in Me. Reach out to others. Your job description is: Trust, 'Trust in the LORD with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths' (Proverbs 3:5-6). Confess: 'If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness' (1John 1:9). Seek: 'But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you' (Matthew 6:33)."
Well, those are very clear and simple instructions, aren't they? TRUST, CONFESS and SEEK. I know there are more, but that's what I received for this time. I had to ask myself: Do I know my job description? How am I doing at following it? Do I want to add or take away from some of the assignments? Dear Jesus, please help me follow Your directions. Help me follow You. Please let it be obvious to others that I am following You and I know my job description. Amen
Marilyn Willett Heavilin
Marilyn is a wife and mother, author, and international conference and retreat speaker. She and her husband Glen serve as Counselors-in-Residence at America's KESWICK during the summer months. Author of Roses In December, December's Song,When Your Dreams Die, I'm Listening, Lord, Becoming A Woman of Honor, and Grief Is A Family Affair.
DIGGING DEEPER
Psalm 103:1
Bless the LORD, O my soul,and all that is within me,bless his holy name!
I have always heard the same words. They may come through softly and gently, or they may come through loud and strong, but however they sound, the words are always the same, "I love you, too, Marilyn!!!" What a way to start a day!
Recently I wrote in my journal, and I spent most of my time telling the Lord what I thought He should do to "straighten" others out, but then as I listened, this is what I heard in my head and this is what I wrote: "I will take care of the chastening. It is not in your job description. Rest in Me. Reach out to others. Your job description is: Trust, 'Trust in the LORD with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths' (Proverbs 3:5-6). Confess: 'If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness' (1John 1:9). Seek: 'But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you' (Matthew 6:33)."
Well, those are very clear and simple instructions, aren't they? TRUST, CONFESS and SEEK. I know there are more, but that's what I received for this time. I had to ask myself: Do I know my job description? How am I doing at following it? Do I want to add or take away from some of the assignments? Dear Jesus, please help me follow Your directions. Help me follow You. Please let it be obvious to others that I am following You and I know my job description. Amen
Marilyn Willett Heavilin
Marilyn is a wife and mother, author, and international conference and retreat speaker. She and her husband Glen serve as Counselors-in-Residence at America's KESWICK during the summer months. Author of Roses In December, December's Song,When Your Dreams Die, I'm Listening, Lord, Becoming A Woman of Honor, and Grief Is A Family Affair.
DIGGING DEEPER
Psalm 103:1
Bless the LORD, O my soul,and all that is within me,bless his holy name!
Monday, July 19, 2010
Digging Deeper Psalm 103:1-5
1. Bless the LORD, O my soul; and all that is within me, bless His holy name!
2. Bless the LORD, O my soul, and forget not all His benefits:
3. Who forgives all your iniquities, Who heals all your diseases,
4. Who redeems your life from destruction,Who crowns you with lovingkindness and tender mercies,
5. Who satisfies your mouth with good things,So that your youth is renewed like the eagle's.
From his inmost parts David tells his soul to bless the Lord with all that it possesses! He tells his soul not to forget the benefits of knowing and being known by God. This week as you read, reread, meditate on and write this Psalm on your heart, I encourage you to speak to your soul the truth of God's redeeming love. Remember Whose you are and be soul-deep satisfied.
2. Bless the LORD, O my soul, and forget not all His benefits:
3. Who forgives all your iniquities, Who heals all your diseases,
4. Who redeems your life from destruction,Who crowns you with lovingkindness and tender mercies,
5. Who satisfies your mouth with good things,So that your youth is renewed like the eagle's.
From his inmost parts David tells his soul to bless the Lord with all that it possesses! He tells his soul not to forget the benefits of knowing and being known by God. This week as you read, reread, meditate on and write this Psalm on your heart, I encourage you to speak to your soul the truth of God's redeeming love. Remember Whose you are and be soul-deep satisfied.
Friday, July 16, 2010
Digging Deeper Psalm 101:6-8
Points to Ponder
My eyes shall be on the faithful of the land, that they may dwell with me; He who walks in a perfect way, He shall serve me. He who works deceit shall not dwell within my house; He who tells lies shall not continue in my presence. Early I will destroy all the wicked of the land, That I may cut off all the evildoers from the city of the LORD.
In this Psalm David's eyes are on the faithful of the land. "He would seek them out, engage their services, take care of them, and promote them to honor....Those who are not faithful to God will not be likely to be faithful to men; if we are faithful ourselves, we shall not care to have those about us who cannot speak the truth or fulfill their promises; we shall not be satisfied until all the members of our family are upright in character."1
What came to mind as I read this today was me, as an employee, a servant working for the Lord at Americas KESWICK. Without a doubt, I know I am here because the Lord brought me here to work and serve for His Kingdom purposes. So, as I pause and consider this, the questions which come to mind, and which we all, regardless of where we work and serve can ponder are:
Am I faithful? Do I keep my word, my promises? Is my character and conduct pleasing in the sight of the Lord?
Whatever work you are involved in may we be bent away from anything that would spoil or tarnish or diminish the reputation of our Savior King, Jesus!!
1 The Treasury of David Volume II, page 241
My eyes shall be on the faithful of the land, that they may dwell with me; He who walks in a perfect way, He shall serve me. He who works deceit shall not dwell within my house; He who tells lies shall not continue in my presence. Early I will destroy all the wicked of the land, That I may cut off all the evildoers from the city of the LORD.
In this Psalm David's eyes are on the faithful of the land. "He would seek them out, engage their services, take care of them, and promote them to honor....Those who are not faithful to God will not be likely to be faithful to men; if we are faithful ourselves, we shall not care to have those about us who cannot speak the truth or fulfill their promises; we shall not be satisfied until all the members of our family are upright in character."1
What came to mind as I read this today was me, as an employee, a servant working for the Lord at Americas KESWICK. Without a doubt, I know I am here because the Lord brought me here to work and serve for His Kingdom purposes. So, as I pause and consider this, the questions which come to mind, and which we all, regardless of where we work and serve can ponder are:
Am I faithful? Do I keep my word, my promises? Is my character and conduct pleasing in the sight of the Lord?
Whatever work you are involved in may we be bent away from anything that would spoil or tarnish or diminish the reputation of our Savior King, Jesus!!
1 The Treasury of David Volume II, page 241
Thursday, July 15, 2010
Helping or Enabling? Part Three
In Setting Boundaries with Your Adult Children, Allison Bottke gives Six Steps to SANITY. The following is from page 99 where she lists those steps and makes a few comments.
S- STOP your own negative behavior (especially the flow of money!)
A- ASSEMBLE a support group
N- NIP excuses in the bud
I- IMPLEMENT rules and boundries
T-Trust your instincts
Y- YIELD everything to God
Last but not least, another side effect of implementing the Six Steps to SANITY could be that our adult children may actually become the people we've been pretending they were or dreaming they could be! Now wouldn't that make all the tough-love pain worthwhile?
After Stephanie and I discussed these steps she commented that the only thing she would change is to have the "Y" first. I would agree. If we cannot yield ourselves and our adult children to the Lord then I don't know that we can follow the other steps peacefully and completely.
Webster's Dictionary defines "yield" this way:"to give up possession of or claim or demand: as a: to give up (as one's breath) and so die; b: to surrender or relinquish to the physical control of another: hand over possession of; c: to surrender or submit (oneself) to another; d: to give (oneself) up to an inclination, temptation, or habit; e: to relinquish one's possession of (as a position of advantage or point of superiority)."
Besides yielding there are other painful aspects involved in gaining our SANITY. These steps involve transparency with others in order to have proper support, being able to say "no," changing our behavior and , of course, waiting. I know this is not easy but I ask that you prayerfully consider what is best for your marriage, the prodigal, your other children, and your relationship with God.
Kathy Withers
Kathy's on staff at America's KESWICK in the Development Department. Kathy has been married to her husband Dave for almost 25 years. They have two adult children. Kathy is active in her local church and has previously served as a Teaching Director for Community Bible Study. Her passion is to encourage women to deepen their walk with Jesus Christ by finding and living out the truths of God's Word.
DIGGING DEEPER
PSALM 101:8
Morning by morning I will destroy all the wicked in the land, cutting off all the evildoers from the city of the LORD.
S- STOP your own negative behavior (especially the flow of money!)
A- ASSEMBLE a support group
N- NIP excuses in the bud
I- IMPLEMENT rules and boundries
T-Trust your instincts
Y- YIELD everything to God
Last but not least, another side effect of implementing the Six Steps to SANITY could be that our adult children may actually become the people we've been pretending they were or dreaming they could be! Now wouldn't that make all the tough-love pain worthwhile?
After Stephanie and I discussed these steps she commented that the only thing she would change is to have the "Y" first. I would agree. If we cannot yield ourselves and our adult children to the Lord then I don't know that we can follow the other steps peacefully and completely.
Webster's Dictionary defines "yield" this way:"to give up possession of or claim or demand: as a: to give up (as one's breath) and so die; b: to surrender or relinquish to the physical control of another: hand over possession of; c: to surrender or submit (oneself) to another; d: to give (oneself) up to an inclination, temptation, or habit; e: to relinquish one's possession of (as a position of advantage or point of superiority)."
Besides yielding there are other painful aspects involved in gaining our SANITY. These steps involve transparency with others in order to have proper support, being able to say "no," changing our behavior and , of course, waiting. I know this is not easy but I ask that you prayerfully consider what is best for your marriage, the prodigal, your other children, and your relationship with God.
Kathy Withers
Kathy's on staff at America's KESWICK in the Development Department. Kathy has been married to her husband Dave for almost 25 years. They have two adult children. Kathy is active in her local church and has previously served as a Teaching Director for Community Bible Study. Her passion is to encourage women to deepen their walk with Jesus Christ by finding and living out the truths of God's Word.
DIGGING DEEPER
PSALM 101:8
Morning by morning I will destroy all the wicked in the land, cutting off all the evildoers from the city of the LORD.
Wednesday, July 14, 2010
Helping or Enabling? Part Two
The following test is found in Setting Boundaries with Your Adult Children by Allison Bottke (pages 30-31). If you still don't know if you are helping or enabling, these questions may help you know for sure.
1. Have you repeatedly loaned your adult child money, which has seldom , if ever, been repaid?
2. Have you paid for education and/or job training in more than one field?
3. Have you finished a job or project that he failed to complete himself because it was easier than arguing with him?
4. Have you paid bills he was supposed to pay himself?
5. Have you accepted part of the blame for his addictions or behavior?
6. Have you avoided talking about negative issues because you feared his response?
7. Have you bailed him out of jail or paid for his legal fees?
8. Have you given them "one more chance" and then another and another?
9. Have you ever returned home at luchtime (or called) and found him still in bed?
10. Have you wondered how he gets money to buy cigarettes, video games, new clothes, and such but can't afford to pay his own bills?
11. Have you ever "called in sick" for your child, lying about his symptoms to his boss?
12. Have you threatened to throw him out but didn't?
13. Have you begun to feel that you've reached the end of your rope?
14. Have you begun to hate both your child and yourself for the state in which you live?
15. Have you begun to worry that the financial burden is more than you can bear?
16. Have you begun to feel that your marriage is in jeopardy because of this situation?
17. Have you noticed growing resentment in other family members because of this situation?
18. Have you noticed that others are uncomfortable around you when the issue arises?
19. Have you noticed an increase in profanity, violence, and/or other unacceptable behavior from your adult child?
20. Have you noticed that things are missing from your home, including money, valuables, and other personal property?
So... are you a helper or an enabler?
Kathy Withers
Kathy's on staff at America's KESWICK in the Development Department. Kathy has been married to her husband Dave for almost 25 years. They have two adult children. Kathy is active in her local church and has previously served as a Teaching Director for Community Bible Study. Her passion is to encourage women to deepen their walk with Jesus Christ by finding and living out the truths of God's Word.
DIGGING DEEPER
Psalm 101:7
No one who practices deceit
shall dwell in my house;
no one who utters lies
shall continue before my eyes.
1. Have you repeatedly loaned your adult child money, which has seldom , if ever, been repaid?
2. Have you paid for education and/or job training in more than one field?
3. Have you finished a job or project that he failed to complete himself because it was easier than arguing with him?
4. Have you paid bills he was supposed to pay himself?
5. Have you accepted part of the blame for his addictions or behavior?
6. Have you avoided talking about negative issues because you feared his response?
7. Have you bailed him out of jail or paid for his legal fees?
8. Have you given them "one more chance" and then another and another?
9. Have you ever returned home at luchtime (or called) and found him still in bed?
10. Have you wondered how he gets money to buy cigarettes, video games, new clothes, and such but can't afford to pay his own bills?
11. Have you ever "called in sick" for your child, lying about his symptoms to his boss?
12. Have you threatened to throw him out but didn't?
13. Have you begun to feel that you've reached the end of your rope?
14. Have you begun to hate both your child and yourself for the state in which you live?
15. Have you begun to worry that the financial burden is more than you can bear?
16. Have you begun to feel that your marriage is in jeopardy because of this situation?
17. Have you noticed growing resentment in other family members because of this situation?
18. Have you noticed that others are uncomfortable around you when the issue arises?
19. Have you noticed an increase in profanity, violence, and/or other unacceptable behavior from your adult child?
20. Have you noticed that things are missing from your home, including money, valuables, and other personal property?
So... are you a helper or an enabler?
Kathy Withers
Kathy's on staff at America's KESWICK in the Development Department. Kathy has been married to her husband Dave for almost 25 years. They have two adult children. Kathy is active in her local church and has previously served as a Teaching Director for Community Bible Study. Her passion is to encourage women to deepen their walk with Jesus Christ by finding and living out the truths of God's Word.
DIGGING DEEPER
Psalm 101:7
No one who practices deceit
shall dwell in my house;
no one who utters lies
shall continue before my eyes.
Tuesday, July 13, 2010
Helping or Enabling? Part One
Being a parent of prodigals is similar to a roller coaster ride...plenty of ups and downs! There are good days when I am confident of God's work in the lives my children and days when I wonder if God heard my prayers. With each twist and turn of life my desire is to just know that I am doing the right thing for Dave and I and for my children. My daughter has asked to come home for a few months. (Long story!) And my son finally called. (REALLY long story!) He also wants to come home one week a month over the summer to accomplish some work. So, what do we do? I just want to know what the right thing is! The last thing I want to do is to get in God's way. If coming home would in any way delay what God needs to accomplish in their lives then the answer is no.
As I was praying for the answer I was reading a book called Setting Boundaries with Your Adult Children by Allison Bottke. The following definitions show the difference between helping and enabling and clarified the decision we needed to make: "Helping is doing something for someone that he is not capable of doing himself." "Enabling is doing for someone that he could and should be doing for himself." (Page 29)
I felt it was right to allow them to come home temporarily. They are not asking for bills to be paid for them. They are not unwilling to abide by the house rules. They understand that there are consequences if the rules are broken. They understand that there is a deadline to move out. They understand that they can visit but not live here after the deadline. They know that a revolving door is not being installed.
As always when I am in any situation with my children I think of my Heavenly Father and my relationship with Him. Do I come to Him for help or do I just want Him to fix everything for me? Do I understand that there are consequences to my disobedience? Do I allow God to do the hard things in my life; not expecting everything to be made easy for me? Am I participating with and allowing God's work to be accomplished in me?
Kathy Withers
Kathy's on staff at America's KESWICK in the Development Department. Kathy has been married to her husband Dave for almost 25 years. They have two adult children. Kathy is active in her local church and has previously served as a Teaching Director for Community Bible Study. Her passion is to encourage women to deepen their walk with Jesus Christ by finding and living out the truths of God's Word.
DIGGING DEEPER
Psalm 101:6
I will look with favor on the faithful in the land,
that they may dwell with me;
he who walks in the way that is blameless
shall minister to me.
As I was praying for the answer I was reading a book called Setting Boundaries with Your Adult Children by Allison Bottke. The following definitions show the difference between helping and enabling and clarified the decision we needed to make: "Helping is doing something for someone that he is not capable of doing himself." "Enabling is doing for someone that he could and should be doing for himself." (Page 29)
I felt it was right to allow them to come home temporarily. They are not asking for bills to be paid for them. They are not unwilling to abide by the house rules. They understand that there are consequences if the rules are broken. They understand that there is a deadline to move out. They understand that they can visit but not live here after the deadline. They know that a revolving door is not being installed.
As always when I am in any situation with my children I think of my Heavenly Father and my relationship with Him. Do I come to Him for help or do I just want Him to fix everything for me? Do I understand that there are consequences to my disobedience? Do I allow God to do the hard things in my life; not expecting everything to be made easy for me? Am I participating with and allowing God's work to be accomplished in me?
Kathy Withers
Kathy's on staff at America's KESWICK in the Development Department. Kathy has been married to her husband Dave for almost 25 years. They have two adult children. Kathy is active in her local church and has previously served as a Teaching Director for Community Bible Study. Her passion is to encourage women to deepen their walk with Jesus Christ by finding and living out the truths of God's Word.
DIGGING DEEPER
Psalm 101:6
I will look with favor on the faithful in the land,
that they may dwell with me;
he who walks in the way that is blameless
shall minister to me.
Monday, July 12, 2010
Digging Deeper Psalm 101:6-8
In his book, "The Treasury of David," Charles Spurgeon calls this Psalm of David, "The Psalm of Pious Resolution." He says, "This is such a Psalm as the man after God's own heart would compose when he was about to become king of Israel. It is David all over, straight forward, resolute, devout; there is no trace of policy or vacillation, - the Lord has appointed him to be king, and he knows it, therefore he purposes in all things to behave as becomes a monarch whom the Lord Himself has chosen."1
As you read, meditate, memorize and reread this Psalm this week, consider your own resolutions. As we are daughters of the King we, too, ought to purpose in all things to behave in such a way that is becoming of one who is chosen.
6. My eyes shall be on the faithful of the land, that they may dwell with me; He who walks in a perfect way, He shall serve me.
7. He who works deceit shall not dwell within my house;He who tells lies shall not continue in my presence.
8. Early I will destroy all the wicked of the land,That I may cut off all the evildoers from the city of the LORD.
1 The Treasury of David Volume II, page 239
Friday, July 09, 2010
DIGGING DEEPER
Psalm 101:1-5 Points to ponder
1 I will sing of steadfast love and justice;
to you, O LORD, I will make music.
2 I will ponder the way that is blameless.
Oh when will you come to me?
I will walk with integrity of heart
within my house;
3 I will not set before my eyes
anything that is worthless.
I hate the work of those who fall away;
it shall not cling to me.
4 A perverse heart shall be far from me;
I will know nothing of evil.
5 Whoever slanders his neighbor secretly
I will destroy.
Whoever has a haughty look and an arrogant heart
I will not endure.
As I thought about these verses this week, verse 2 struck me: "I will walk with integrity of heart within my house." It is "easy" to walk with integrity out in the world where everyone sees you, but what about in the silence, solitude, secret places of your home where the watchful eyes of neighbors and friends are absent? I remember one time really getting angry at my daughter for some incidental thing. I was so angry I could FEEL it. I was driving with a friend of mine to a mall with our children. I made a comment about how I struggled with having a kind and gentle spirit in my home. She said, "I've never seen you ever speak inappropriately to your kids." I replied, through my grit teeth ---"of course not, I'm not stupid enough to do it in front of you!"
That was a lot of years ago and I've grown since then and my children have grown since then, into adults. My point is this. Who are you when no one is looking? Do you walk with integrity of heart within your house?
Diane
Diane Hunt is the Director of Addiction Recovery Ministries and Acting Director of Development at America's KESWICK. In addition to her Keswick responsibilities which keep her busy, she loves to read, write and teach, travel and laugh with her grandchildren. Diane has been married to her husband John over 25 years. She has 2 children, 2+ grandchildren, 3 step-children, and 7 step-grandchildren.
1 I will sing of steadfast love and justice;
to you, O LORD, I will make music.
2 I will ponder the way that is blameless.
Oh when will you come to me?
I will walk with integrity of heart
within my house;
3 I will not set before my eyes
anything that is worthless.
I hate the work of those who fall away;
it shall not cling to me.
4 A perverse heart shall be far from me;
I will know nothing of evil.
5 Whoever slanders his neighbor secretly
I will destroy.
Whoever has a haughty look and an arrogant heart
I will not endure.
As I thought about these verses this week, verse 2 struck me: "I will walk with integrity of heart within my house." It is "easy" to walk with integrity out in the world where everyone sees you, but what about in the silence, solitude, secret places of your home where the watchful eyes of neighbors and friends are absent? I remember one time really getting angry at my daughter for some incidental thing. I was so angry I could FEEL it. I was driving with a friend of mine to a mall with our children. I made a comment about how I struggled with having a kind and gentle spirit in my home. She said, "I've never seen you ever speak inappropriately to your kids." I replied, through my grit teeth ---"of course not, I'm not stupid enough to do it in front of you!"
That was a lot of years ago and I've grown since then and my children have grown since then, into adults. My point is this. Who are you when no one is looking? Do you walk with integrity of heart within your house?
Diane
Diane Hunt is the Director of Addiction Recovery Ministries and Acting Director of Development at America's KESWICK. In addition to her Keswick responsibilities which keep her busy, she loves to read, write and teach, travel and laugh with her grandchildren. Diane has been married to her husband John over 25 years. She has 2 children, 2+ grandchildren, 3 step-children, and 7 step-grandchildren.
Have you made your summer reservations? PLEASE pick up the phone and call today. 732-350-1187 or 1-800-453-7942.
Thursday, July 08, 2010
What Are You Waiting For?
Then Peter answered and said to Jesus, "Lord, it is good for us to be here; if You wish, let us make here three tabernacles: one for You, one for Moses, and one for Elijah." While he was still speaking, behold, a bright cloud overshadowed them; and suddenly a voice came out of the cloud, saying, "This is My beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased. Hear Him!" Matthew 17:4-5 NKJV
Some time ago, I'm ashamed to say, the Lord spoke to my heart very clearly about something He wanted me to do. He said; "I want you to learn how to speak Italian." I asked Him, "Why?" He didn't answer. I prayed about it and asked the Lord a few more questions... "Lord, how do I do this, do you want me to take classes...go on the Internet...I have no money for either...what do you want me to do?" I prayed for Him to show me the way and to pay my way, as He always does anyway! It should come as no surprise that He did both. I began to use the program and even learned a few words. It wasn't long though before my enthusiasm gave way to discouragement. I decided it was time I asked the Lord a few more questions. "Lord, I know You want me to learn this, but as I understand it, once you learn a language you need to use it, if not you'll lose it. I have no one to speak it to and I don't understand why You would...." While I was still speaking, He interrupted me and said; "I would not have told you to learn it if I wasn't going to give you someone to speak it to."
OH! OK! So there's a plan! Great, I like plans! I decided to share with my brother-in-law, Sal, (who was born and raised in Sicily) that I was learning Italian. I even asked if he'd help me with it from time to time. I thought it could be an opportunity to share Christ with him again. I wanted to also get an Italian language Bible we could read from. Recently, Sal had a severe stroke. I went to visit him in the hospital. I kept wondering what I could say at this point to share Christ with him. Holding his hand, and speaking close to him so I could hear what he was saying, I prayed, "Lord, what do I say?" I looked down and his hospital band had the words written on it... SPEAK UP. So I did. I know he heard and understood me and I pray he spoke up to God. I never did get the Bible or follow through with my request for Sal's help. I kept putting off what I should do today, until tomorrow.
Today, our beloved Sal, passed away. There will be no more tomorrows to study Italian with him. Tomorrow we will have a funeral.
Today, I dusted off my language program and by God's grace will begin again to do what He told me to do and stop asking so many questions. He can be trusted for further instructions. Is there something you've put off, someone maybe? What are you waiting for?
Dina Seaton
Marketing Assistant, Staff Writer
America's KESWICK
DIGGING DEEPER
4 A perverse heart shall be far from me;
I will know nothing of evil.
5 Whoever slanders his neighbor secretly
I will destroy.
Whoever has a haughty look and an arrogant heart
I will not endure.
Some time ago, I'm ashamed to say, the Lord spoke to my heart very clearly about something He wanted me to do. He said; "I want you to learn how to speak Italian." I asked Him, "Why?" He didn't answer. I prayed about it and asked the Lord a few more questions... "Lord, how do I do this, do you want me to take classes...go on the Internet...I have no money for either...what do you want me to do?" I prayed for Him to show me the way and to pay my way, as He always does anyway! It should come as no surprise that He did both. I began to use the program and even learned a few words. It wasn't long though before my enthusiasm gave way to discouragement. I decided it was time I asked the Lord a few more questions. "Lord, I know You want me to learn this, but as I understand it, once you learn a language you need to use it, if not you'll lose it. I have no one to speak it to and I don't understand why You would...." While I was still speaking, He interrupted me and said; "I would not have told you to learn it if I wasn't going to give you someone to speak it to."
OH! OK! So there's a plan! Great, I like plans! I decided to share with my brother-in-law, Sal, (who was born and raised in Sicily) that I was learning Italian. I even asked if he'd help me with it from time to time. I thought it could be an opportunity to share Christ with him again. I wanted to also get an Italian language Bible we could read from. Recently, Sal had a severe stroke. I went to visit him in the hospital. I kept wondering what I could say at this point to share Christ with him. Holding his hand, and speaking close to him so I could hear what he was saying, I prayed, "Lord, what do I say?" I looked down and his hospital band had the words written on it... SPEAK UP. So I did. I know he heard and understood me and I pray he spoke up to God. I never did get the Bible or follow through with my request for Sal's help. I kept putting off what I should do today, until tomorrow.
Today, our beloved Sal, passed away. There will be no more tomorrows to study Italian with him. Tomorrow we will have a funeral.
Today, I dusted off my language program and by God's grace will begin again to do what He told me to do and stop asking so many questions. He can be trusted for further instructions. Is there something you've put off, someone maybe? What are you waiting for?
Dina Seaton
Marketing Assistant, Staff Writer
America's KESWICK
DIGGING DEEPER
4 A perverse heart shall be far from me;
I will know nothing of evil.
5 Whoever slanders his neighbor secretly
I will destroy.
Whoever has a haughty look and an arrogant heart
I will not endure.
Have you made your summer reservations? PLEASE pick up the phone and call today. 732-350-1187 or 1-800-453-7942.
Wednesday, July 07, 2010
I Choose You
Have you noticed that God chooses some interesting people to carry out His purposes? Usually the person is the last one you would ever choose or even consider for a specific task. Yet, God seems to know what He is doing because those He chooses ALWAYS turn out to be the perfect ones for the job! Acts 9:15 "But the Lord said to Ananias, 'Go! This man is my chosen instrument to carry my name before the Gentiles and their kings and before the people of Israel.' "
The Lord said "Go!" I'm sure this wasn't on Ananias's agenda, in his plans, or even in his thoughts. But God chose Ananias as surely as He chose Saul. God does the choosing always. In John 15:16, Jesus tells His disciples that each of them where chosen, hand picked by the Messiah Himself. "You did not choose me, but I chose you and appointed you to go and bear fruit..." Each of His disciples were different and special with unique gifts. God had a special plan to use each of the disciples according to the gifts He had given. And without a doubt He loved them dearly! So much so that He would die for them.
Any one looking from the outside would have never believed that this group of 11 guys could do anything! They sure seemed unfit to spread the "Good News." Have you ever had those thoughts? I confess I have....I've even had those thoughts about myself! Who me, Lord? Are You really speaking to me? But Lord I can't! 1 Corinthians 1:26-28 "Brothers, think of what you were when you called. Not many of you were wise by human standards; not many were influential; not many of you were of noble birth. BUT God chose the foolish things of the world to shame the wise; God chose the weak things of the world to shame the strong. He chose the lowly things of this world and the despised things that are not - to nullify the things that are."
God chose Moses to confront Pharaoh and to lead 3 million Jews to freedom. In Exodus 3:11 Moses asks God "Who am I." He didn't believe he was the right man for the job. He wasn't brave and he had a speech impediment.
God chose Gideon to save Israel out of the hands of the Midianites. Gideon says to God in Judges 6:15, "...how can I save Israel? ... I'm the least in my family."
God chose Isaiah to be a prophet to the Israelites. In Isaiah 6:5 He says to God "Woe to me! I am ruined! For I am a man of unclean lips..." He didn't think he was good enough.
God chose Jeremiah to be a prophet as well but he counts himself out. In Jeremiah 1:6 he says to God, "I do not know how to speak; I'm only a child." He thinks he is too young to be used by God. We come up with all kinds of excuses for ourselves and many reasons why so and so can't do it either. In reality we doubt that God knows what He is doing! But He "chose us in him before the creation of the world," He planned for us, He created us and He also equips us for the calling He places on our lives. It's not all that easy to take the step of faith and heed the call.
But what if we just trust God, the Almighty, all powerful, all knowing God and take that step of faith. God always equips those who He calls. It all comes down to whether or not we do trust Him.
Psalm 37:5 "Commit your way to the LORD; trust in him and he will do this."
Now that is a promise we can believe in. It's all about Him, not us.
MaryAnn
MaryAnn and John Kiernan have been married for 36 years, have 2 grown/married sons and are the proud grandparents of three grandsons and one granddaughter! She serves at America's Keswick as a Biblical Counselor and also as Intake Coordinator for the Colony of Mercy. Her life verse is Romans 8:28.
DIGGING DEEPER
3 I will not set before my eyes
anything that is worthless.
I hate the work of those who fall away;
it shall not cling to me.
The Lord said "Go!" I'm sure this wasn't on Ananias's agenda, in his plans, or even in his thoughts. But God chose Ananias as surely as He chose Saul. God does the choosing always. In John 15:16, Jesus tells His disciples that each of them where chosen, hand picked by the Messiah Himself. "You did not choose me, but I chose you and appointed you to go and bear fruit..." Each of His disciples were different and special with unique gifts. God had a special plan to use each of the disciples according to the gifts He had given. And without a doubt He loved them dearly! So much so that He would die for them.
Any one looking from the outside would have never believed that this group of 11 guys could do anything! They sure seemed unfit to spread the "Good News." Have you ever had those thoughts? I confess I have....I've even had those thoughts about myself! Who me, Lord? Are You really speaking to me? But Lord I can't! 1 Corinthians 1:26-28 "Brothers, think of what you were when you called. Not many of you were wise by human standards; not many were influential; not many of you were of noble birth. BUT God chose the foolish things of the world to shame the wise; God chose the weak things of the world to shame the strong. He chose the lowly things of this world and the despised things that are not - to nullify the things that are."
God chose Moses to confront Pharaoh and to lead 3 million Jews to freedom. In Exodus 3:11 Moses asks God "Who am I." He didn't believe he was the right man for the job. He wasn't brave and he had a speech impediment.
God chose Gideon to save Israel out of the hands of the Midianites. Gideon says to God in Judges 6:15, "...how can I save Israel? ... I'm the least in my family."
God chose Isaiah to be a prophet to the Israelites. In Isaiah 6:5 He says to God "Woe to me! I am ruined! For I am a man of unclean lips..." He didn't think he was good enough.
God chose Jeremiah to be a prophet as well but he counts himself out. In Jeremiah 1:6 he says to God, "I do not know how to speak; I'm only a child." He thinks he is too young to be used by God. We come up with all kinds of excuses for ourselves and many reasons why so and so can't do it either. In reality we doubt that God knows what He is doing! But He "chose us in him before the creation of the world," He planned for us, He created us and He also equips us for the calling He places on our lives. It's not all that easy to take the step of faith and heed the call.
But what if we just trust God, the Almighty, all powerful, all knowing God and take that step of faith. God always equips those who He calls. It all comes down to whether or not we do trust Him.
Psalm 37:5 "Commit your way to the LORD; trust in him and he will do this."
Now that is a promise we can believe in. It's all about Him, not us.
MaryAnn
MaryAnn and John Kiernan have been married for 36 years, have 2 grown/married sons and are the proud grandparents of three grandsons and one granddaughter! She serves at America's Keswick as a Biblical Counselor and also as Intake Coordinator for the Colony of Mercy. Her life verse is Romans 8:28.
DIGGING DEEPER
3 I will not set before my eyes
anything that is worthless.
I hate the work of those who fall away;
it shall not cling to me.
Have you made your summer reservations? PLEASE pick up the phone and call today. 732-350-1187 or 1-800-453-7942.
Tuesday, July 06, 2010
God Speaks
Here at KESWICK, our slogan is that we are a place where God speaks to hearts and transforms lives. That is a great slogan, but we often get tripped up on the question... but how does God speak? Let's briefly look at 5 different ways from scripture.
1. Through His Word - this is probably His favorite way to talk to us. It is God's love letter to us. The Bible is God's venue for communicating with us what is right, not right, how to get right and how to stay right. Timothy 3:16-17 gives 4 different purposes for scripture in our lives - it is profitable for: doctrine, reproof, correction and for instruction in righteousness. Are you reading His Word? Is His Word hid in your heart?
2. Through Others - God has put godly teachers and preachers here so that we can hear the Word of God. Romans 10:17 says, "Faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the word of God." Listen to people who can and will tell us more about God. Are you going to Church? Are you in Bible Studies with others? Do you have plans to spend a week at Keswick learning from great teachers?
3. Through Prayer - We get to know others through our conversations. God wants us to get to know Him by being in conversation with Him. Are you talking to Him? The psalms of David are a glimpse of David's conversations with God: Open, honest and powerful. We know that Christ spent time in conversation with His Father; He then taught us how to talk to the Father in Matt. 6: 9-13. Are you sharing your heart with Him? Are you also letting Him talk to you by being quiet?
4. Through Godly Counsel - Solomon wrote Proverbs to give godly counsel. We would be wise to read it and make personal application. Solomon reminds us time and again that we are to seek counsel in our plans and ways (Pr. 15:22, 20:5, 18; 24:6; 27:9). Other people use their lives, experiences and knowledge to help us to get to know God better. Are you looking to others? Or are you sharing what God has taught you with others?
5. Through the Holy Spirit - in the book of John chapter 16 we are told of the works of the Holy Spirit. John 16:14-15 says "He will glorify me, for he will take what is mine and declare it to you. All that the Father has is mine; therefore I said that he will take what is mine and declare it to you." The Holy Spirit will come to make Christ look good in us so that we can live holy and righteous lives. Having the Holy Spirit in us is far better than having Christ with us. Can you believe that? When you have the Holy Spirit in you than you have Christ in you! This is God's personal working in you to guide, convict and move you towards good works which give God the glory. Are you listening to that inner voice? Has God put a desire in your heart?
Yes, I know that God also speaks through creation, events, and struggles. Those really happen around us without us having to put in a whole lot of effort. And I do admit that when they do happen we need to stop and listen to what God is trying to tell you. For today, though, my question to you is: are you putting in the effort by allowing God to speak to you through the above 5 ways mentioned? I know I sometimes get hung up on just one or two ways of trying to listen to God... maybe it's time you allowed God to speak to you through a new avenue. I would encourage you to add these 5 ways to your daily walk with the Lord... I know that He will teach you many things and you WILL GROW in your relationship with Him.
Lynne Jahns
Christian Counselor, Director, KESWICK Institute of Biblical Studies
DIGGING DEEPER
1 I will sing of steadfast love and justice;
to you, O LORD, I will make music.
2 I will ponder the way that is blameless.
Oh when will you come to me?
I will walk with integrity of heart
within my house;
1. Through His Word - this is probably His favorite way to talk to us. It is God's love letter to us. The Bible is God's venue for communicating with us what is right, not right, how to get right and how to stay right. Timothy 3:16-17 gives 4 different purposes for scripture in our lives - it is profitable for: doctrine, reproof, correction and for instruction in righteousness. Are you reading His Word? Is His Word hid in your heart?
2. Through Others - God has put godly teachers and preachers here so that we can hear the Word of God. Romans 10:17 says, "Faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the word of God." Listen to people who can and will tell us more about God. Are you going to Church? Are you in Bible Studies with others? Do you have plans to spend a week at Keswick learning from great teachers?
3. Through Prayer - We get to know others through our conversations. God wants us to get to know Him by being in conversation with Him. Are you talking to Him? The psalms of David are a glimpse of David's conversations with God: Open, honest and powerful. We know that Christ spent time in conversation with His Father; He then taught us how to talk to the Father in Matt. 6: 9-13. Are you sharing your heart with Him? Are you also letting Him talk to you by being quiet?
4. Through Godly Counsel - Solomon wrote Proverbs to give godly counsel. We would be wise to read it and make personal application. Solomon reminds us time and again that we are to seek counsel in our plans and ways (Pr. 15:22, 20:5, 18; 24:6; 27:9). Other people use their lives, experiences and knowledge to help us to get to know God better. Are you looking to others? Or are you sharing what God has taught you with others?
5. Through the Holy Spirit - in the book of John chapter 16 we are told of the works of the Holy Spirit. John 16:14-15 says "He will glorify me, for he will take what is mine and declare it to you. All that the Father has is mine; therefore I said that he will take what is mine and declare it to you." The Holy Spirit will come to make Christ look good in us so that we can live holy and righteous lives. Having the Holy Spirit in us is far better than having Christ with us. Can you believe that? When you have the Holy Spirit in you than you have Christ in you! This is God's personal working in you to guide, convict and move you towards good works which give God the glory. Are you listening to that inner voice? Has God put a desire in your heart?
Yes, I know that God also speaks through creation, events, and struggles. Those really happen around us without us having to put in a whole lot of effort. And I do admit that when they do happen we need to stop and listen to what God is trying to tell you. For today, though, my question to you is: are you putting in the effort by allowing God to speak to you through the above 5 ways mentioned? I know I sometimes get hung up on just one or two ways of trying to listen to God... maybe it's time you allowed God to speak to you through a new avenue. I would encourage you to add these 5 ways to your daily walk with the Lord... I know that He will teach you many things and you WILL GROW in your relationship with Him.
Lynne Jahns
Christian Counselor, Director, KESWICK Institute of Biblical Studies
DIGGING DEEPER
1 I will sing of steadfast love and justice;
to you, O LORD, I will make music.
2 I will ponder the way that is blameless.
Oh when will you come to me?
I will walk with integrity of heart
within my house;
Have you made your summer reservations? PLEASE pick up the phone and call today. 732-350-1187 or 1-800-453-7942.
Monday, July 05, 2010
DIGGING DEEPER
Psalm 101:1-5
We have passed the half way mark. If you have been memorizing each week's passage you have added 159 verses to your arsenal. Perhaps memorizing an entire passage is overwhelming. Why not select one, just one, from this week's selection. I would love to hear how God is using these Digging Deeper verses to bless your heart. I have heard from some of you, but I know there are a LOT more of you out there.
1 I will sing of steadfast love and justice;
to you, O LORD, I will make music.
2 I will ponder the way that is blameless.
Oh when will you come to me?
I will walk with integrity of heart
within my house;
3 I will not set before my eyes
anything that is worthless.
I hate the work of those who fall away;
it shall not cling to me.
4 A perverse heart shall be far from me;
I will know nothing of evil.
5 Whoever slanders his neighbor secretly
I will destroy.
Whoever has a haughty look and an arrogant heart
I will not endure.
Have you noticed the recurring theme in our weekly verses? The steadfast love of God is recounted over and over and over. Sooner or later we will let it sink in. God's love for us is eternal, unwavering, steadfast. He loves you. You can not do anything that will change His mind about you. That kind of love is, well, nothing short of remarkable. Tarry there a moment. Consider His steadfast love for YOU!!
Diane
Diane Hunt is the Director of Addiction Recovery Ministries and Acting Director of Development at America's KESWICK. In addition to her Keswick responsibilities which keep her busy, she loves to read, write and teach, travel and laugh with her grandchildren. Diane has been married to her husband John over 25 years. She has 2 children, 2+ grandchildren, 3 step-children, and 7 step-grandchildren.
We have passed the half way mark. If you have been memorizing each week's passage you have added 159 verses to your arsenal. Perhaps memorizing an entire passage is overwhelming. Why not select one, just one, from this week's selection. I would love to hear how God is using these Digging Deeper verses to bless your heart. I have heard from some of you, but I know there are a LOT more of you out there.
1 I will sing of steadfast love and justice;
to you, O LORD, I will make music.
2 I will ponder the way that is blameless.
Oh when will you come to me?
I will walk with integrity of heart
within my house;
3 I will not set before my eyes
anything that is worthless.
I hate the work of those who fall away;
it shall not cling to me.
4 A perverse heart shall be far from me;
I will know nothing of evil.
5 Whoever slanders his neighbor secretly
I will destroy.
Whoever has a haughty look and an arrogant heart
I will not endure.
Have you noticed the recurring theme in our weekly verses? The steadfast love of God is recounted over and over and over. Sooner or later we will let it sink in. God's love for us is eternal, unwavering, steadfast. He loves you. You can not do anything that will change His mind about you. That kind of love is, well, nothing short of remarkable. Tarry there a moment. Consider His steadfast love for YOU!!
Diane
Diane Hunt is the Director of Addiction Recovery Ministries and Acting Director of Development at America's KESWICK. In addition to her Keswick responsibilities which keep her busy, she loves to read, write and teach, travel and laugh with her grandchildren. Diane has been married to her husband John over 25 years. She has 2 children, 2+ grandchildren, 3 step-children, and 7 step-grandchildren.
Friday, July 02, 2010
Digging Deeper
Psalm 100 Points to Ponder
1 Make a joyful noise to the LORD, all the earth!
2 Serve the LORD with gladness!
Come into his presence with singing!
3 Know that the LORD, he is God!
It is he who made us, and we are his;
we are his people, and the sheep of his pasture.
4 Enter his gates with thanksgiving,
and his courts with praise!
Give thanks to him; bless his name!
5 For the LORD is good;
his steadfast love endures forever,
and his faithfulness to all generations.
Points to Ponder:
In a world where things seem to be unraveling with earthquakes, floods, oil spills, wars, suicide bombers, declining economies, legalisation of gay marriages and marijuanna for medicinal purposes, and addiction, and...and...and....it would be ever so easy to feel dragged down, fearful and depressed. Except..... With God in the picture, everything, everything, everything changes. We belong to HIM. And He cares for us as a shepherd cares for his sheep, with tender care. God is Good. Not one day, not one moment, has God ceased to be good. He is Good. And His steadfast love and his faithfulness endure. The ONLY constant in this world is its Creator, Sustainer - the ONE TRUE GOD. Let us come into His presence with singing...Give thanks to Him; bless His name.
Diane
Diane Hunt is the Director of Addiction Recovery Ministries and Acting Director of Development at America's KESWICK. In addition to her Keswick responsibilities which keep her busy, she loves to read, write and teach, travel and laugh with her grandchildren. Diane has been married to her husband John over 25 years. She has 2 children, 2+ grandchildren, 3 step-children, and 7 step-grandchildren.
1 Make a joyful noise to the LORD, all the earth!
2 Serve the LORD with gladness!
Come into his presence with singing!
3 Know that the LORD, he is God!
It is he who made us, and we are his;
we are his people, and the sheep of his pasture.
4 Enter his gates with thanksgiving,
and his courts with praise!
Give thanks to him; bless his name!
5 For the LORD is good;
his steadfast love endures forever,
and his faithfulness to all generations.
Points to Ponder:
In a world where things seem to be unraveling with earthquakes, floods, oil spills, wars, suicide bombers, declining economies, legalisation of gay marriages and marijuanna for medicinal purposes, and addiction, and...and...and....it would be ever so easy to feel dragged down, fearful and depressed. Except..... With God in the picture, everything, everything, everything changes. We belong to HIM. And He cares for us as a shepherd cares for his sheep, with tender care. God is Good. Not one day, not one moment, has God ceased to be good. He is Good. And His steadfast love and his faithfulness endure. The ONLY constant in this world is its Creator, Sustainer - the ONE TRUE GOD. Let us come into His presence with singing...Give thanks to Him; bless His name.
Diane
Diane Hunt is the Director of Addiction Recovery Ministries and Acting Director of Development at America's KESWICK. In addition to her Keswick responsibilities which keep her busy, she loves to read, write and teach, travel and laugh with her grandchildren. Diane has been married to her husband John over 25 years. She has 2 children, 2+ grandchildren, 3 step-children, and 7 step-grandchildren.
Thursday, July 01, 2010
LISTEN AND PAY ATTENTION
2 Samuel 24
I will be the first to admit that I don't understand all of this passage, but I want to make observations on what I do understand.
First, David did not please the Lord.
Apparently wanting to take a census of all of the fighting men David had at his disposal constituted an ego trip on David's part.
v 2. So the king said to Joab and the army commanders with him, "Go throughout the tribes of Israel from Dan to Beersheba and enroll the fighting men, so that I may know how many there are."
God uses even our helpers to guide us, but we need to be willing to listen.
v 3. ...But why does my lord the king want to do such a thing?
However, David was the King, and as King, he could do whatever he wanted to do; and he did!
v 4. The king's word, however, overruled Joab and the army commanders; so they left the presence of the king to enroll the fighting men of Israel.
v 9. Joab reported the number of the fighting men to the king
It didn't take David long to be convicted of his sin because, in spite of himself, his heart was tender toward God.
v 10. David was conscience-stricken after he had counted the fighting men, and he said to the LORD, '"I have sinned greatly in what I have done. Now, O LORD, I beg you, take away the guilt of your servant. I have done a very foolish thing.'"
We see an example for us. When we have sinned, we must confess our sins right away and God will always be compassionate toward us.
We also see through this passage that God uses others to speak reproof to us, and our sins can affect innocent people.
v 11-15 Before David got up the next morning, the word of the LORD had come to Gad the prophet, David's seer: "Go and tell David, 'This is what the LORD says: I am giving you three options. Choose one of them for me to carry out against you.' So Gad went to David and said to him, 'Shall there come upon you three years of famine in your land? Or three months of fleeing from your enemies while they pursue you? Or three days of plague in your land? Now then, think it over and decide how I should answer the one who sent me.' David said to Gad, 'I am in deep distress. Let us fall into the hands of the LORD, for his mercy is great; but do not let me fall into the hands of men.' So the LORD sent a plague on Israel from that morning until the end of the time designated, and seventy thousand of the people from Dan to Beersheba died.
As we read further in this passage, we see that even the Lord was grieved because so many were paying for David's sin and had died.
There are consequences for our sins and often times others have to pay the price; such as victims of abuse, families of murder victims, victims of alcoholics, etc., etc.
But the thing that this passage teaches us is that while there is always a price to pay for sin, forgiveness is available to us.
Dear Lord, please keep our hearts tender so that others do not have to be victimized by our sins. Thank you for being so tender and forgiving toward us. Amen
Marilyn Willett Heavilin
Marilyn is a wife and mother, author, and international conference and retreat speaker. She and her husband Glen serve as Counselors-in-Residence at America's KESWICK during the summer months.
DIGGING DEEPER
Psalm 100
4 Enter his gates with thanksgiving,
and his courts with praise!
Give thanks to him; bless his name!
5 For the LORD is good;
his steadfast love endures forever,
and his faithfulness to all generations.
I will be the first to admit that I don't understand all of this passage, but I want to make observations on what I do understand.
First, David did not please the Lord.
Apparently wanting to take a census of all of the fighting men David had at his disposal constituted an ego trip on David's part.
v 2. So the king said to Joab and the army commanders with him, "Go throughout the tribes of Israel from Dan to Beersheba and enroll the fighting men, so that I may know how many there are."
God uses even our helpers to guide us, but we need to be willing to listen.
v 3. ...But why does my lord the king want to do such a thing?
However, David was the King, and as King, he could do whatever he wanted to do; and he did!
v 4. The king's word, however, overruled Joab and the army commanders; so they left the presence of the king to enroll the fighting men of Israel.
v 9. Joab reported the number of the fighting men to the king
It didn't take David long to be convicted of his sin because, in spite of himself, his heart was tender toward God.
v 10. David was conscience-stricken after he had counted the fighting men, and he said to the LORD, '"I have sinned greatly in what I have done. Now, O LORD, I beg you, take away the guilt of your servant. I have done a very foolish thing.'"
We see an example for us. When we have sinned, we must confess our sins right away and God will always be compassionate toward us.
We also see through this passage that God uses others to speak reproof to us, and our sins can affect innocent people.
v 11-15 Before David got up the next morning, the word of the LORD had come to Gad the prophet, David's seer: "Go and tell David, 'This is what the LORD says: I am giving you three options. Choose one of them for me to carry out against you.' So Gad went to David and said to him, 'Shall there come upon you three years of famine in your land? Or three months of fleeing from your enemies while they pursue you? Or three days of plague in your land? Now then, think it over and decide how I should answer the one who sent me.' David said to Gad, 'I am in deep distress. Let us fall into the hands of the LORD, for his mercy is great; but do not let me fall into the hands of men.' So the LORD sent a plague on Israel from that morning until the end of the time designated, and seventy thousand of the people from Dan to Beersheba died.
As we read further in this passage, we see that even the Lord was grieved because so many were paying for David's sin and had died.
There are consequences for our sins and often times others have to pay the price; such as victims of abuse, families of murder victims, victims of alcoholics, etc., etc.
But the thing that this passage teaches us is that while there is always a price to pay for sin, forgiveness is available to us.
Dear Lord, please keep our hearts tender so that others do not have to be victimized by our sins. Thank you for being so tender and forgiving toward us. Amen
Marilyn Willett Heavilin
Marilyn is a wife and mother, author, and international conference and retreat speaker. She and her husband Glen serve as Counselors-in-Residence at America's KESWICK during the summer months.
DIGGING DEEPER
Psalm 100
4 Enter his gates with thanksgiving,
and his courts with praise!
Give thanks to him; bless his name!
5 For the LORD is good;
his steadfast love endures forever,
and his faithfulness to all generations.
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