When our grandson was only a few months old (he is now 22 years old!) our daughter sent us a video in which she sang "This Little Light of Mine. I'm going to let it shine; Let it shine; Let it shine." Every time our daughter would hold up her index finger, symbolic of a candle, our grandson would giggle. His giggle became contagious and soon I was giggling, too. Then my husband joined me in watching our grandson, and soon my husband was giggling, too. Not only was our grandson giggling, but he was SHINING!
Several years ago, my husband and I attended a conference led by Mrs. Leanne Paine. While we were there, we learned a new song, "Shine, Jesus, Shine!"
Shine, Jesus, shine
Fill this land with the Father's glory
Blaze, Spirit, blaze,
Set our hearts on fire
Flow, river flow
Flood the nations with grace and mercy
Send forth Your word
Lord and let there be light.1
How do we shine for Jesus? First, we make sure that Christ is Lord of our lives. Then we become very familiar with Scripture. We then ask God to help us to never miss an opportunity to shine for Him. It is now our responsibility not to pass up any chance we have to shine for Him. That means as we are driving...do we represent Him well? When we are in a store, do we shine because we know Jesus? In our casual conversations do we take the credit for our "nice" behavior, or do we Shine?
I mentioned in an earlier devotional about finding a beautiful rose centerpiece. I shared the story with several clerks before I left the store, and then I even had my husband take the centerpiece out of the bag and show it to a man at the bus stop, and of course, he heard my "roses" story and was told of God's faithfulness. That's what I call "Letting my light shine for Jesus!"
Luke 4:18 The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, because he hath anointed me to preach the gospel to the poor; he hath sent me to heal the brokenhearted, to preach deliverance to the captives, and recovering of sight to the blind, to set at liberty them that are bruised,
SHINE, SHINE, SHINE!!!
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
James 5:8 You also, be patient. Establish your hearts, for the coming of the Lord is at hand.
It's finally here!!! Crossing the Jordan: Living Victoriously in Difficult Relationships by Diane Hunt, MaryAnn Kiernan, DeEtta Marsh, Stephanie Paul and Betsy Shoppy (several of our Victory Call writers). Today's Victory Call is just a taste of what you will find in this Bible Study for women. Although it was originally written for wives of men in addiction it has already been a blessing to women from various circumstances and relationships: moms, siblings, daughters, wives, fiancees' etc. Most of the 14 chapters are applicable to any woman in any situation. To secure your own copy contact America's Keswick Guest Services 732.350.1187 $16.00. If you have any questions contact Diane Hunt at dhunt@americaskeswick.org.
1 http://www.lyricsfreak.com/c/cliff+richard/shine+jesus+shine_20032227.html
Wednesday, October 19, 2011
Tuesday, October 18, 2011
KEEP LOOKING FOR THE ROSES
Many of you know my "Roses" story already, but for those who don't I feel I need to share it. When our 17-year-old son Nate was killed by a drunk driver, our son's friends asked, "What are we going to do with Christmas?" since Christmas day would be his 18th birthday? My personal thought was, "Can't we just cancel December?" His 18th birthday, and he would not be here! Actually, Nate was our third child to die; Jimmy died when he was 7 weeks old; Ethan, Nate's twin, died when he was 10 days old, and now Nate was killed when he was 17 years old. It would be my vote to just cancel the whole month. Everyone is so "Jolly, Ho, Ho, Ho" in December, and I see nothing to celebrate.
Shortly after, I saw a poster that said, "God gives us memories, so we might have Roses In December."1 My first thought was, "You've got to be kidding. Roses in December? I really doubt that I will see any roses in my December. "
But slowly I did begin to see that God had given me roses in meaningful Scripture, in people, in memories, and even in little treasures that kept appearing. Such as the plant of miniature roses that appeared at my door on a day I was really struggling to sense God's love for me, or the day the bouquet of roses was sent to me claiming I had been a blessing to someone who was almost a stranger to me.
It has been 28 years since Nate was killed; could God still be sending roses my way?
Recently I had need of a cane. We are in a small town, and the likelihood of finding any kind of cane seemed slim, but wouldn't you know that the first cane my husband found had a rose print over the entire cane! God still remembered!
Just a short time ago, as we were traveling through a tourist town, I was tired and about to end my day of sight-seeing when I entered a lovely gift shop. While I was still in the entry, I spotted a Christmas sleigh with an arrangement in it that included many red roses and THREE white roses. Since we normally supplied our church with an arrangement of red roses and three white roses each Christmas season, I knew that centerpiece was MINE!!! God still remembered me and my need for roses. Thank You, Jesus. He knew my need and met it. He is faithful!
Philippians 4:19 But my God shall supply all your needs according to his riches in glory by Christ Jesus.
Dear Jesus,
Thank you for caring for me and remembering my occasional need for roses as a reminder of my boys and of Your love for me. 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
James 5:8 You also, be patient. Establish your hearts, for the coming of the Lord is at hand.
It's finally here!!! Crossing the Jordan: Living Victoriously in Difficult Relationships by Diane Hunt, MaryAnn Kiernan, DeEtta Marsh, Stephanie Paul and Betsy Shoppy (several of our Victory Call writers). Today's Victory Call is just a taste of what you will find in this Bible Study for women. Although it was originally written for wives of men in addiction it has already been a blessing to women from various circumstances and relationships: moms, siblings, daughters, wives, fiancees' etc. Most of the 14 chapters are applicable to any woman in any situation. To secure your own copy contact America's Keswick Guest Services 732.350.1187 $16.00. If you have any questions contact Diane Hunt at dhunt@americaskeswick.org.
1 This quote is attributed to Sir James Barrie, the author of Peter Pan.
Shortly after, I saw a poster that said, "God gives us memories, so we might have Roses In December."1 My first thought was, "You've got to be kidding. Roses in December? I really doubt that I will see any roses in my December. "
But slowly I did begin to see that God had given me roses in meaningful Scripture, in people, in memories, and even in little treasures that kept appearing. Such as the plant of miniature roses that appeared at my door on a day I was really struggling to sense God's love for me, or the day the bouquet of roses was sent to me claiming I had been a blessing to someone who was almost a stranger to me.
It has been 28 years since Nate was killed; could God still be sending roses my way?
Recently I had need of a cane. We are in a small town, and the likelihood of finding any kind of cane seemed slim, but wouldn't you know that the first cane my husband found had a rose print over the entire cane! God still remembered!
Just a short time ago, as we were traveling through a tourist town, I was tired and about to end my day of sight-seeing when I entered a lovely gift shop. While I was still in the entry, I spotted a Christmas sleigh with an arrangement in it that included many red roses and THREE white roses. Since we normally supplied our church with an arrangement of red roses and three white roses each Christmas season, I knew that centerpiece was MINE!!! God still remembered me and my need for roses. Thank You, Jesus. He knew my need and met it. He is faithful!
Philippians 4:19 But my God shall supply all your needs according to his riches in glory by Christ Jesus.
Dear Jesus,
Thank you for caring for me and remembering my occasional need for roses as a reminder of my boys and of Your love for me. 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
James 5:8 You also, be patient. Establish your hearts, for the coming of the Lord is at hand.
It's finally here!!! Crossing the Jordan: Living Victoriously in Difficult Relationships by Diane Hunt, MaryAnn Kiernan, DeEtta Marsh, Stephanie Paul and Betsy Shoppy (several of our Victory Call writers). Today's Victory Call is just a taste of what you will find in this Bible Study for women. Although it was originally written for wives of men in addiction it has already been a blessing to women from various circumstances and relationships: moms, siblings, daughters, wives, fiancees' etc. Most of the 14 chapters are applicable to any woman in any situation. To secure your own copy contact America's Keswick Guest Services 732.350.1187 $16.00. If you have any questions contact Diane Hunt at dhunt@americaskeswick.org.
1 This quote is attributed to Sir James Barrie, the author of Peter Pan.
Monday, October 17, 2011
Digging Deeper James 5:8 with Commentary
Each week as I prepare the Digging Deeper Victory Calls, I find my eyes darting to the end of Chapter 5; the end of the book of James is fast approaching. It is hard to believe in just a few months we will have worked through the entire book of James verse by verse. If you have been reading it each week, you will have read the entire book 52 times by the end of the year. I trust your heart has been blessed through your time in the word. If not, it's not too late to start.
James 5:8 You also, be patient. Establish your hearts, for the coming of the Lord is at hand.
Commentary:
Establish your hearts. A call for resolute, firm courage and commitment. James exhorts those about to collapse under the weight of persecution to store up their hearts with the hope of the Second Coming. at hand. The imminency of Christ's return is a frequent theme in the NT. [The MacArthur Bible Commentary by John MacArthur pg 1896)
Have a good week. In the midst of your busyness, stop and look around. God didn't just create beauty; He gave us the ability to appreciate it. Don't waste it.
Blessings,
Diane
Cross references:
A. James 5:8 : 1 Thess 3:13
B. James 5:8 : 1 Pet 4:7; Rom 13:11, 12; Phil 4:5; Heb 10:25, 37
James 5:8 You also, be patient. Establish your hearts, for the coming of the Lord is at hand.
Commentary:
Establish your hearts. A call for resolute, firm courage and commitment. James exhorts those about to collapse under the weight of persecution to store up their hearts with the hope of the Second Coming. at hand. The imminency of Christ's return is a frequent theme in the NT. [The MacArthur Bible Commentary by John MacArthur pg 1896)
Have a good week. In the midst of your busyness, stop and look around. God didn't just create beauty; He gave us the ability to appreciate it. Don't waste it.
Blessings,
Diane
Cross references:
A. James 5:8 : 1 Thess 3:13
B. James 5:8 : 1 Pet 4:7; Rom 13:11, 12; Phil 4:5; Heb 10:25, 37
Friday, October 14, 2011
Digging Deeper James 5:7 with Points to Ponder
Be patient, therefore, brothers, until the coming of the Lord. See how the farmer waits for the precious fruit of the earth, being patient about it, until it receives the early and the late rains.
I remember 25 years ago, planting my own first and only garden. I was a newlywed and living in a townhouse. I planted... well... I can't remember what I planted other than the sole plant that came up and the 1 eggplant it bore which I picked and gave to my neighbor. Thus my only garden. Starting about a week after planting my little garden, I would go out every few days to look to see if the plants had started to sprout. Day after day, week after week, I looked with anticipation, anxious to see evidence of success. I watered and watched, watered and watched. Gardening takes patience and apparently something else I didn't have.
James uses a farmer's waiting and watching to illustrate patience and calls us to be patient until the Lord comes, perhaps in light of the Lord's coming.
I hope you had a great week.
Have a good weekend. Be blessed in the Lord's House on Sunday. Be refreshed as you rest.
Blessings,
Diane
I remember 25 years ago, planting my own first and only garden. I was a newlywed and living in a townhouse. I planted... well... I can't remember what I planted other than the sole plant that came up and the 1 eggplant it bore which I picked and gave to my neighbor. Thus my only garden. Starting about a week after planting my little garden, I would go out every few days to look to see if the plants had started to sprout. Day after day, week after week, I looked with anticipation, anxious to see evidence of success. I watered and watched, watered and watched. Gardening takes patience and apparently something else I didn't have.
James uses a farmer's waiting and watching to illustrate patience and calls us to be patient until the Lord comes, perhaps in light of the Lord's coming.
I hope you had a great week.
Have a good weekend. Be blessed in the Lord's House on Sunday. Be refreshed as you rest.
Blessings,
Diane
Thursday, October 13, 2011
Crossing the Jordan
This Victory Call is a little different from our typical VC. We have gotten some questions about the Crossing the Jordan Bible Study, so I share this with you.
Imagine for a moment standing on the side of a raging river at flood stage, which is threatening, at any moment, to overtake you right where you are. As you stand there, you can see on the other side of the river that there is higher ground where you would be safe from the torrents and threat of where you are.
This is exactly how many women feel. Difficult life circumstances happen to everyone, male and female, young and old, married and single.
God not only desires for women to have abundant life and to live in victory, but He also made a way through His Son Jesus Christ. "I came that they may have life and have it abundantly."
John 10:10; "But thanks be to God, who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ." 1 Corinthians 15:57.
Crossing the Jordan is a topical Bible Study workbook designed for individual or small group study. It was written by women for women in all stages and phases of life. Originally written for women whose husbands were part of the Colony of Mercy Addiction Recovery Program of America's Keswick, we soon realized the principles and Biblical truths of the study apply to all women with 11 of the 14 chapters applying to any woman, while the remaining 3 chapters apply specifically to a marriage relationship.
The title Crossing the Jordan: Living Victoriously in Difficult Relationships was chosen because it beautifully depicts the life of freedom that awaits those who choose to get their feet wet and to cross that raging river knowing that on the other side there is higher ground of hope, freedom and victory. Much like the Israelites who had to cross the Jordan River at flood stage BEFORE God parted the waters, by faith the priests had to step into the water and get their feet wet. It was the only way for them to finally leave their wilderness wanderings and enter the promised land, "a land flowing with milk and honey" (Deut. 23:7).
"So it was, when the people set out from their camp to cross over the Jordan, with the priests bearing the ark of the covenant before the people, and as those who bore the ark came to the Jordan, and the feet of the priests who bore the ark dipped in the edge of the water (for the Jordan overflows all its banks during the whole time of harvest), that the waters which came down from upstream stood still, and rose up in a heap...and the people crossed over opposite Jericho. " Joshua 3:14-16
Just like the Israelites, as we choose to step out in faith to move from our wilderness wanderings to lay hold of the promised land in our lives, God will go with us. He will empower us moment by moment to lay claim to the promises of freedom and hope awaiting us on the other side of the Jordan.
Crossing the Jordan is already impacting women's lives, leading them in an encounter with the transforming power of the Living God.
Imagine for a moment standing on the side of a raging river at flood stage, which is threatening, at any moment, to overtake you right where you are. As you stand there, you can see on the other side of the river that there is higher ground where you would be safe from the torrents and threat of where you are.
This is exactly how many women feel. Difficult life circumstances happen to everyone, male and female, young and old, married and single.
God not only desires for women to have abundant life and to live in victory, but He also made a way through His Son Jesus Christ. "I came that they may have life and have it abundantly."
John 10:10; "But thanks be to God, who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ." 1 Corinthians 15:57.
Crossing the Jordan is a topical Bible Study workbook designed for individual or small group study. It was written by women for women in all stages and phases of life. Originally written for women whose husbands were part of the Colony of Mercy Addiction Recovery Program of America's Keswick, we soon realized the principles and Biblical truths of the study apply to all women with 11 of the 14 chapters applying to any woman, while the remaining 3 chapters apply specifically to a marriage relationship.
The title Crossing the Jordan: Living Victoriously in Difficult Relationships was chosen because it beautifully depicts the life of freedom that awaits those who choose to get their feet wet and to cross that raging river knowing that on the other side there is higher ground of hope, freedom and victory. Much like the Israelites who had to cross the Jordan River at flood stage BEFORE God parted the waters, by faith the priests had to step into the water and get their feet wet. It was the only way for them to finally leave their wilderness wanderings and enter the promised land, "a land flowing with milk and honey" (Deut. 23:7).
"So it was, when the people set out from their camp to cross over the Jordan, with the priests bearing the ark of the covenant before the people, and as those who bore the ark came to the Jordan, and the feet of the priests who bore the ark dipped in the edge of the water (for the Jordan overflows all its banks during the whole time of harvest), that the waters which came down from upstream stood still, and rose up in a heap...and the people crossed over opposite Jericho. " Joshua 3:14-16
Just like the Israelites, as we choose to step out in faith to move from our wilderness wanderings to lay hold of the promised land in our lives, God will go with us. He will empower us moment by moment to lay claim to the promises of freedom and hope awaiting us on the other side of the Jordan.
Crossing the Jordan is already impacting women's lives, leading them in an encounter with the transforming power of the Living God.
Wednesday, October 12, 2011
Real Rest
Recently, I was doing some reading about "Finding Peace in Life's Busy Seasons" by Jackie M. Johnson. I am in the midst of a very high pressure time with more to do than I can humanly do and my to-do list seems to get longer and longer. We have all been there. I am not unique by any means.
So, how do we find rest in the midst of hectic lives?
Mt. 11:28 says, "Come to my, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest." In the midst of reading the article I read this quote: "bottom line: Rest is not a reward, "she* continues. "you can't earn it. You don't deserve it. It's not a sign of weakness or inability. Rest is a matter of obedience, stewardship and delight."
Our culture values non-stop work. Being a work-a-holic is more a badge of honor rather than an addiction to work and busyness.
I appreciate her statement that "rest is a matter of obedience, stewardship and delight."1 Rest is God's plan. Genesis 2:2 And on the seventh day God finished his work that he had done, and he rested on the seventh day from all his work that he had done.
I was very touched by this Jank statement in the article, "The hard work of rest is the holy work of God." 2 Think about that and let it sink in for a moment. "The hard work of rest is the holy work of God."
Remember this: Work hard. Play hard. Rest hard.
Blessings,
Diane
*(Brenda Jank, director of Rest and Renewal Ministries at Camp Luther - Haven (Albion, Ind)
1 Jank, Brenda - quoted in "Finding Peace in Life's Busy Seasons" by Jackie M. Johnson.
2 Ibid
So, how do we find rest in the midst of hectic lives?
Mt. 11:28 says, "Come to my, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest." In the midst of reading the article I read this quote: "bottom line: Rest is not a reward, "she* continues. "you can't earn it. You don't deserve it. It's not a sign of weakness or inability. Rest is a matter of obedience, stewardship and delight."
Our culture values non-stop work. Being a work-a-holic is more a badge of honor rather than an addiction to work and busyness.
I appreciate her statement that "rest is a matter of obedience, stewardship and delight."1 Rest is God's plan. Genesis 2:2 And on the seventh day God finished his work that he had done, and he rested on the seventh day from all his work that he had done.
I was very touched by this Jank statement in the article, "The hard work of rest is the holy work of God." 2 Think about that and let it sink in for a moment. "The hard work of rest is the holy work of God."
Remember this: Work hard. Play hard. Rest hard.
Blessings,
Diane
*(Brenda Jank, director of Rest and Renewal Ministries at Camp Luther - Haven (Albion, Ind)
1 Jank, Brenda - quoted in "Finding Peace in Life's Busy Seasons" by Jackie M. Johnson.
2 Ibid
Tuesday, October 11, 2011
The Love of God
"By this the love of God was manifested in us that God has sent His only begotten Son into the world so that we might live through Him. In this is love, not that we loved God, but that He loved us and sent His Son to be the propitiation for our sins. Beloved, if God so loved us, we also ought to love one another. No one has beheld God at anytime; if we love one another, God abides in us, and His love is perfected in us. By this we know that we abide in Him, and He in us, because He has given us of His Spirit. And we have beheld and bear witness that the Father has sent the Son to be the Savior of the world. Whoever confesses that Jesus is the Son of God, God abides in him, and he in God. And we have come to know and have believed the love which God has for us; God is love, and the one who abides in love abides in God, and God abides in him. By this, love is perfected with us, that we may have confidence in the day of judgment because as He is, so also are we in this world. There is no fear in love; but perfect love casts out fear, because fear involves punishment, and the one who fears is not perfected in love. We love, because He first loved us"
1 John 4:9-19.
God your love is perfect, and it is perfected in me. Lord thank you for loving me. As imperfect as I am, I am Blessed to be loved by you.
Glory to God.
Sandra Roman
Staff Member - WOC Graduate
DIGGING DEEPER
James 5:4-6
4Behold, the wages of the laborers who mowed your fields, which you kept back by fraud, are crying out against you, and the cries of the harvesters have reached the ears of the Lord of hosts.
5 You have lived on the earth in luxury and in self-indulgence. You have fattened your hearts in a day of slaughter.
6You have condemned and murdered the righteous person. He does not resist you.
1 John 4:9-19.
God your love is perfect, and it is perfected in me. Lord thank you for loving me. As imperfect as I am, I am Blessed to be loved by you.
Glory to God.
Sandra Roman
Staff Member - WOC Graduate
DIGGING DEEPER
James 5:4-6
4Behold, the wages of the laborers who mowed your fields, which you kept back by fraud, are crying out against you, and the cries of the harvesters have reached the ears of the Lord of hosts.
5 You have lived on the earth in luxury and in self-indulgence. You have fattened your hearts in a day of slaughter.
6You have condemned and murdered the righteous person. He does not resist you.
Monday, October 10, 2011
Digging Deeper Jams 5:7 with Commentary
People can really try our patience can't they? Not everyone got the memo about doing things our way. Why do we grow impatient with people? They are not living up to our expectations. People cut in line at the deli, people cut us off on the highway. People disagree with our political preferences and don't hesitate to voice them...strongly. We do not like being mistreated whether by someone we know or someone we don't know. James challenges us to look beyond our immediate circumstance to the bigger picture and the Lord's return.
James 5:7, "Be patient, therefore, brothers, until the coming of the Lord. See how the farmer waits for the precious fruit of the earth, being patient about it, until it receives the early and the late rains."
Commentary:
...patient. The word emphasizes patience with people...not trials or circumstances (as in 1:3). Specifically, James has in mind patience with the oppressive rich.
...the coming. The Second Coming of Christ." "Realizing the glory that awaits them at Christ's return should motivate believers to patiently endure mistreatment
...the early and later rains. The early rain falls in Israel during October and November and softens the ground for planting. The latter rain falls in March and April, immediately before the spring harvest. Just as the farmer waits patiently from the early rain to the latter for his crop to ripen, so must Christians patiently wait for the Lord's return... [The MacArthur Bible Commentary, by John MacArthur pg. 1896]
Have a great week.
Blessings,
Diane
James 5:7, "Be patient, therefore, brothers, until the coming of the Lord. See how the farmer waits for the precious fruit of the earth, being patient about it, until it receives the early and the late rains."
Commentary:
...patient. The word emphasizes patience with people...not trials or circumstances (as in 1:3). Specifically, James has in mind patience with the oppressive rich.
...the coming. The Second Coming of Christ." "Realizing the glory that awaits them at Christ's return should motivate believers to patiently endure mistreatment
...the early and later rains. The early rain falls in Israel during October and November and softens the ground for planting. The latter rain falls in March and April, immediately before the spring harvest. Just as the farmer waits patiently from the early rain to the latter for his crop to ripen, so must Christians patiently wait for the Lord's return... [The MacArthur Bible Commentary, by John MacArthur pg. 1896]
Have a great week.
Blessings,
Diane
Friday, October 07, 2011
Digging Deeper James 5:4-6 with Points to Ponder
James 5:4-6
Behold, the wages of the laborers who mowed your fields, which you kept back by fraud, are crying out against you, and the cries of the harvesters have reached the ears of the Lord of hosts. You have lived on the earth in luxury and in self-indulgence. You have fattened your hearts in a day of slaughter. You have condemned and murdered the righteous person. He does not resist you.
Points to Ponder
Please understand when James wrote this he was communicating something the Lord put in him to write. There is one true, accurate interpretation of these verses and I am not learned enough to know what that is specifically. Though there is one interpretation there may be various different applications.
What attitude do we have towards others? Are we givers or keepers at heart? Isn't this the very thing these landowners were struggling with? Their greatest priority was their own comfort, convenience, luxury and pleasure even at the expense of others. Are we willing to go without so others have what they need or have earned? When we give, do we give sacrificially putting our own comfort, convenience, luxury and pleasure second?
Are we self-indulgent? One of the commentators in Monday's Victory Call said, "a life without self-denial soon becomes out of control in every area" (MacArthur). Do we practice restraint? Do we practice self-denial? Do we live the crucified life?
Blessings,
Diane
Behold, the wages of the laborers who mowed your fields, which you kept back by fraud, are crying out against you, and the cries of the harvesters have reached the ears of the Lord of hosts. You have lived on the earth in luxury and in self-indulgence. You have fattened your hearts in a day of slaughter. You have condemned and murdered the righteous person. He does not resist you.
Points to Ponder
Please understand when James wrote this he was communicating something the Lord put in him to write. There is one true, accurate interpretation of these verses and I am not learned enough to know what that is specifically. Though there is one interpretation there may be various different applications.
What attitude do we have towards others? Are we givers or keepers at heart? Isn't this the very thing these landowners were struggling with? Their greatest priority was their own comfort, convenience, luxury and pleasure even at the expense of others. Are we willing to go without so others have what they need or have earned? When we give, do we give sacrificially putting our own comfort, convenience, luxury and pleasure second?
Are we self-indulgent? One of the commentators in Monday's Victory Call said, "a life without self-denial soon becomes out of control in every area" (MacArthur). Do we practice restraint? Do we practice self-denial? Do we live the crucified life?
Blessings,
Diane
Thursday, October 06, 2011
Trusting God
Psalm 78:18 They tested God in their heart by demanding the food they craved.
There are times when, dealing with children, they want something you know either isn't good for them or that isn't going to be all they think it will be. YOU know that because you have the eyes of experience and maturity. THEY do not see that because they lack experience and maturity.
There are times when wisdom warrants giving them what they want because it will only be through experience that they will realize for THEMSELVES that this is NOT really what they want. You can tell them and tell them and tell them but they will not really understand until they experience it.
Much the same with the Israelites.
God knew He alone was sufficient to meet all their needs but they whined and complained craving more, craving food then meat.
Numbers 11: 4-6 Now the rabble that was among them had a strong craving. And the people of Israel also wept again and said, "Oh that we had meat to eat! We remember the fish we ate in Egypt that cost nothing, the cucumbers, the melons, the leeks, the onions, and the garlic. But now our strength is dried up, and there is nothing at all but this manna to look at."
Psalm 78:29 And they ate and were well filled, for he gave them what they craved.
Psalm 78:30-31 But before they had satisfied their craving, while the food was still in their mouths, the anger of God rose against them, and he killed the strongest of them and laid low the young men of Israel.
God gave them what they craved and they reveled in the quail and stuffed themselves...to death.
Numbers 11:18-20 "And say to the people, 'Consecrate yourselves for tomorrow, and you shall eat meat, for you have wept in the hearing of the LORD, saying, "Who will give us meat to eat? For it was better for us in Egypt." Therefore the LORD will give you meat, and you shall eat. You shall not eat just one day, or two days, or five days, or ten days, or twenty days, but a whole month, until it comes out at your nostrils and becomes loathsome to you, because you have rejected the LORD who is among you and have wept before him, saying, "Why did we come out of Egypt?"'"
God knew HE was enough-The Israelites rejected Him and craved meat and He gave it to them.
The result? God killed the strongest of them and laid low the young men of Israel.
We may not always get what we want and often we get what we want but not the way we expected.
As I think about that statement, "for he gave them what they craved", I don't want God to give me what I crave if in the end it will draw my eyes and heart away from Him.
You and I lack the perspective of God. He alone can determine what truly is in our best interest - will we trust Him in that?
Blessings,
Diane
There are times when, dealing with children, they want something you know either isn't good for them or that isn't going to be all they think it will be. YOU know that because you have the eyes of experience and maturity. THEY do not see that because they lack experience and maturity.
There are times when wisdom warrants giving them what they want because it will only be through experience that they will realize for THEMSELVES that this is NOT really what they want. You can tell them and tell them and tell them but they will not really understand until they experience it.
Much the same with the Israelites.
God knew He alone was sufficient to meet all their needs but they whined and complained craving more, craving food then meat.
Numbers 11: 4-6 Now the rabble that was among them had a strong craving. And the people of Israel also wept again and said, "Oh that we had meat to eat! We remember the fish we ate in Egypt that cost nothing, the cucumbers, the melons, the leeks, the onions, and the garlic. But now our strength is dried up, and there is nothing at all but this manna to look at."
Psalm 78:29 And they ate and were well filled, for he gave them what they craved.
Psalm 78:30-31 But before they had satisfied their craving, while the food was still in their mouths, the anger of God rose against them, and he killed the strongest of them and laid low the young men of Israel.
God gave them what they craved and they reveled in the quail and stuffed themselves...to death.
Numbers 11:18-20 "And say to the people, 'Consecrate yourselves for tomorrow, and you shall eat meat, for you have wept in the hearing of the LORD, saying, "Who will give us meat to eat? For it was better for us in Egypt." Therefore the LORD will give you meat, and you shall eat. You shall not eat just one day, or two days, or five days, or ten days, or twenty days, but a whole month, until it comes out at your nostrils and becomes loathsome to you, because you have rejected the LORD who is among you and have wept before him, saying, "Why did we come out of Egypt?"'"
God knew HE was enough-The Israelites rejected Him and craved meat and He gave it to them.
The result? God killed the strongest of them and laid low the young men of Israel.
We may not always get what we want and often we get what we want but not the way we expected.
As I think about that statement, "for he gave them what they craved", I don't want God to give me what I crave if in the end it will draw my eyes and heart away from Him.
You and I lack the perspective of God. He alone can determine what truly is in our best interest - will we trust Him in that?
Blessings,
Diane
Wednesday, October 05, 2011
Testing God
Psalm 78:18 They tested God in their heart by demanding the food they craved.
Of course the Psalmist here is referring to the Israelites in the desert. You remember the Israelites moaned and groaned to and at Moses for taking them from Egypt and the "leeks and onions" of the land. They longed for the meat pots and bread of the land of their captivity (see Ex. 16).
They tested God in their heart by demanding the food they craved. How is it they tested God? They were unhappy with His menu selection for them and they repeatedly mumbled, complained and challenged Moses.
Now let's stop, you and I, and consider. What is it we demand either in our attitudes or actions?
When we stop to think about it- every time we complain about what we DON'T have, what we DO have, about our jobs, our bosses, our situation, our income, etc. are we not, in our hearts, complaining against God's provision for us?
Are we not testing God in our hearts?
Blessings, Diane
Of course the Psalmist here is referring to the Israelites in the desert. You remember the Israelites moaned and groaned to and at Moses for taking them from Egypt and the "leeks and onions" of the land. They longed for the meat pots and bread of the land of their captivity (see Ex. 16).
They tested God in their heart by demanding the food they craved. How is it they tested God? They were unhappy with His menu selection for them and they repeatedly mumbled, complained and challenged Moses.
Now let's stop, you and I, and consider. What is it we demand either in our attitudes or actions?
When we stop to think about it- every time we complain about what we DON'T have, what we DO have, about our jobs, our bosses, our situation, our income, etc. are we not, in our hearts, complaining against God's provision for us?
Are we not testing God in our hearts?
Blessings, Diane
Tuesday, October 04, 2011
Night Song
Have you ever gone through a season of drought in your spiritual life? If not, wait, you will. A season when God seems silent. Reading the Word seems an exercise in futility. When your cries seem to go unanswered and you have more questions than answers. You wonder...Where are you God? You can see Him at work in others but at least for this season, you feel benched.
The Psalmist was right there.
Psalm 77:6-9
"I said, 'Let me remember my song in the night;
let me meditate in my heart.'
Then my spirit made a diligent search:
'Will the Lord spurn forever,
and never again be favorable?
Has his steadfast love forever ceased?
Are his promises at an end for all time?
Has God forgotten to be gracious?
Has he in anger shut up his compassion?'"
We all experience times like that, sometimes it is a brief season, sometimes it is long and drawn out. When you find yourself in the desert, remember. Remember as the Psalmist did:
Psalm 77:10-12
"Then I said, 'I will appeal to this,
to the years of the right hand of the Most High.'
I will remember the deeds of the LORD;
yes, I will remember your wonders of old.
I will ponder all your work,
and meditate on your mighty deeds."
Remember. Ponder. Meditate.
Blessings, Diane
The Psalmist was right there.
Psalm 77:6-9
"I said, 'Let me remember my song in the night;
let me meditate in my heart.'
Then my spirit made a diligent search:
'Will the Lord spurn forever,
and never again be favorable?
Has his steadfast love forever ceased?
Are his promises at an end for all time?
Has God forgotten to be gracious?
Has he in anger shut up his compassion?'"
We all experience times like that, sometimes it is a brief season, sometimes it is long and drawn out. When you find yourself in the desert, remember. Remember as the Psalmist did:
Psalm 77:10-12
"Then I said, 'I will appeal to this,
to the years of the right hand of the Most High.'
I will remember the deeds of the LORD;
yes, I will remember your wonders of old.
I will ponder all your work,
and meditate on your mighty deeds."
Remember. Ponder. Meditate.
Blessings, Diane
Monday, October 03, 2011
Digging Deeper James 5:4-6 with Commentary
Even in a practical book like the book of James there are sections that I need help understanding so I am thankful today we will be looking at what the Commentators have written.
James 5:4-6
Behold, the wages of the laborers who mowed your fields, which you kept back by fraud, are crying out against you, and the cries of the harvesters have reached the ears of the Lord of hosts. You have lived on the earth in luxury and in self-indulgence. You have fattened your hearts in a day of slaughter. You have condemned and murdered the righteous person. He does not resist you.
Commentary
Recall that last week the ESV study notes gave an overview of verses 1-6:
"Warning to the Rich. James turns his attention from businesspeople ...to wealthy landowners (5:4) who controlled much of Galilee, and indeed much of the Roman Empire. He denounces them for their materialistic accumulation of wealth, for defrauding their workers, and for their self-indulgent actions that have led to the deaths of innocent, righteous people." [ESV Study Bible study notes pg. 2398]
"wages ... you kept back. The rich had gained some of their wealth by oppressing and defrauding their day laborers - a practice strictly forbidden in the OT...the Lord of Sabbaoth." (Lord of hosts) "An untranslated Greek word meaning 'hosts.' The One who hears the cries of the defrauded laborers, James warns, is the Lord of hosts (a name for God used frequently in the OT), the commander of the armies of heaven (angels)."
"pleasure and luxury. After robbing their workers to accumulate their wealth, the rich indulged themselves in an extravagant lifestyle. Pleasure has the connotation of wanton pleasure. Luxury leads to vice when a person becomes consumed with the pursuit of pleasure, since a life without self-denial soon becomes out of control in every area... a day of slaughter. Like fattened cattle ready to be slaughtered, the rich that James condemns had indulged themselves to the limit. This is a vivid depiction of divine judgment..."
"condemned...murdered. This describes the next step in the sinful progression of the rich. Hoarding led to fraud, which led to self-indulgence. Finally, that overindulgence has consumed the rich to the point that they will do anything to sustain their lifestyle...The implication is that the rich were using the courts to commit judicial murder..." [The MacArthur Bible Commentary by John MacArthur pg. 1895-1896]
Blessings,
Diane
James 5:4-6
Behold, the wages of the laborers who mowed your fields, which you kept back by fraud, are crying out against you, and the cries of the harvesters have reached the ears of the Lord of hosts. You have lived on the earth in luxury and in self-indulgence. You have fattened your hearts in a day of slaughter. You have condemned and murdered the righteous person. He does not resist you.
Commentary
Recall that last week the ESV study notes gave an overview of verses 1-6:
"Warning to the Rich. James turns his attention from businesspeople ...to wealthy landowners (5:4) who controlled much of Galilee, and indeed much of the Roman Empire. He denounces them for their materialistic accumulation of wealth, for defrauding their workers, and for their self-indulgent actions that have led to the deaths of innocent, righteous people." [ESV Study Bible study notes pg. 2398]
"wages ... you kept back. The rich had gained some of their wealth by oppressing and defrauding their day laborers - a practice strictly forbidden in the OT...the Lord of Sabbaoth." (Lord of hosts) "An untranslated Greek word meaning 'hosts.' The One who hears the cries of the defrauded laborers, James warns, is the Lord of hosts (a name for God used frequently in the OT), the commander of the armies of heaven (angels)."
"pleasure and luxury. After robbing their workers to accumulate their wealth, the rich indulged themselves in an extravagant lifestyle. Pleasure has the connotation of wanton pleasure. Luxury leads to vice when a person becomes consumed with the pursuit of pleasure, since a life without self-denial soon becomes out of control in every area... a day of slaughter. Like fattened cattle ready to be slaughtered, the rich that James condemns had indulged themselves to the limit. This is a vivid depiction of divine judgment..."
"condemned...murdered. This describes the next step in the sinful progression of the rich. Hoarding led to fraud, which led to self-indulgence. Finally, that overindulgence has consumed the rich to the point that they will do anything to sustain their lifestyle...The implication is that the rich were using the courts to commit judicial murder..." [The MacArthur Bible Commentary by John MacArthur pg. 1895-1896]
Blessings,
Diane
Friday, September 30, 2011
Digging Deeper James 5:1-3 with Points to ponder
Come now, you rich, weep and howl for the miseries that are coming upon you. Your riches have rotted and your garments are moth-eaten. Your gold and silver have corroded, and their corrosion will be evidence against you and will eat your flesh like fire. You have laid up treasure in the last days. James 5:1-3
Points to Ponder:
There are so many things in this world vying for our attention. It is very easy to get distracted from what is really important and eternal. If I am not intentional to refocus my eyes, ears and heart it does not take long for me to be more wrapped up in my schedule than in Jesus. When all is said and done, none of those things that distract us have any lasting value. Sure it's easy to look at materialism, and position and power and see they can so easily work against us in our walk with the Savior, but I realize good things can also divide our affections. I think those are the things that are more difficult to discern. So I guess I need to ask myself the question over and over and over, "Do I love Jesus more than these?"
Jesus doesn't want a part of me, He wants ALL of me. Do I love Jesus with my WHOLE heart?
Blessings,
Diane
Diane Hunt is the Director of Addiction Recovery and 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 26 years. She has 2 children, 3 grandchildren, 3 step-children, and 7 step-grandchildren.
Points to Ponder:
There are so many things in this world vying for our attention. It is very easy to get distracted from what is really important and eternal. If I am not intentional to refocus my eyes, ears and heart it does not take long for me to be more wrapped up in my schedule than in Jesus. When all is said and done, none of those things that distract us have any lasting value. Sure it's easy to look at materialism, and position and power and see they can so easily work against us in our walk with the Savior, but I realize good things can also divide our affections. I think those are the things that are more difficult to discern. So I guess I need to ask myself the question over and over and over, "Do I love Jesus more than these?"
Jesus doesn't want a part of me, He wants ALL of me. Do I love Jesus with my WHOLE heart?
Blessings,
Diane
Diane Hunt is the Director of Addiction Recovery and 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 26 years. She has 2 children, 3 grandchildren, 3 step-children, and 7 step-grandchildren.
Thursday, September 29, 2011
A Message from Psalm 23 - Part 3
"Thy Rod and Thy Staff They Comfort Me"
Yesterday we talked about the shepherd's rod. Today let us turn our attention to the shepherd's staff.
The staff looks like a long slender candy cane, however it is not red and white candy but strong wood. Mr. Keller explains that the shepherd's staff is used in three areas of sheep management.
First, it is used to draw sheep together. A shepherd will gently lift a newborn lamb and bring it to its mother if they become separated. He does not touch the lamb, for the mother will reject her offspring if it bears the odor of his hands upon it. He will also use the staff to reach out and catch individual sheep and draw them close to himself for examination.
Second, the staff is used for guiding sheep. The shepherd uses his staff to keep his sheep from dangerous paths. Sometimes a shepherd will use his staff and hold it against the side of the sheep and walk along in this way as if they were hand-in-hand.
Finally the staff is used to set sheep free who find themselves stuck in brambles or wild roses. Soon they are so hooked in their wool they cannot pull free. Only the staff sets them free of their entanglements.
Mr. Keller suggests that the Spirit of God can be likened to the shepherd's staff. I must agree. First, the Holy Spirit draws Christians together into a warm, personal fellowship with one another. He draws you to Christ, your very personal Lord and Savior. He says, "Come". (Rev. 22:17)
Second, the Holy Spirit, our Comforter, guides you and will keep you from danger. He gently, tenderly, lovingly and persistently challenges you: "This is the way - walk in it" (Is. 30:21). If you and I allow it, the Holy Spirit will continually bring home to us the wonderful comfort of knowing that we are God's children and He is our Father. There is amazing comfort in receiving the truth that you belong to the Good Shepherd and you are under His care. (John 16:13). Years ago someone told me to put my hand on my shoulder whenever I felt the need to be reminded how close Holy Spirit is to me. I still do that and would encourage you to do the same. Just as the shepherd lovingly places his staff on the sheep's side and walks with him, so to the Spirit of the Living God is with us.
Finally the Holy Spirit will lead you to all truth that will set you free. (John 8:32) We get ourselves into places that we simply cannot get free of. In tenderness and compassion the Holy Spirit will lift us up.
Dear one, most surely His rod and His staff they comfort us.
Consider lifting before the Lord the following prayer:
Dear Lord, Today I declare freely that I welcome you to be my Good Shepherd. I invite you to use the rod of your Word in my life. I invite you to set your staff, Holy Spirit, upon me to search me and know my heart. Reveal any way in me that needs your loving correction. I long for your Word to be so a part of me that it shines a light through me that will keep my feet on a path of righteousness. I long for Your Holy Spirit to lead me to all Truth, to bring revelation of Your Word, to draw me to You, and to set me free from every snare in my life. I thank you that you are a loving and compassionate Shepherd; slow to anger and abounding in loving-kindness. I know that you alone, in tenderness and compassion, lift me up. In the name of Jesus, my Good Shepherd, I pray. Amen.
Patricia L. Wenzel,
WOC Graduate
DIGGING DEEPER
James 4:1-3
Come now, you rich, weep and howl for the miseries that are coming upon you. Your riches have rotted and your garments are motheaten. Your gold and silver have corroded and their corrosion will be evidence against you and will eat your flesh like fire. You have laid up treasure in the last days.
It's finally here!!! Crossing the Jordan: Living Victoriously in Difficult Relationships by Diane Hunt, MaryAnn Kiernan, DeEtta Marsh, Stephanie Paul and Betsy Shoppy (several of our Victory Call writers). Today's Victory Call is just a taste of what you will find in this Bible Study for women. Although it was originally written for wives of men in addiction it has already been a blessing to women from various circumstances and relationships: moms, siblings, daughters, wives, fiancees' etc. Most of the 14 chapters are applicable to any woman in any situation. To secure your own copy contact America's Keswick Guest Services 732.350.1187 $16.00. If you have any questions contact Diane Hunt at dhunt@americaskeswick.org.
Yesterday we talked about the shepherd's rod. Today let us turn our attention to the shepherd's staff.
The staff looks like a long slender candy cane, however it is not red and white candy but strong wood. Mr. Keller explains that the shepherd's staff is used in three areas of sheep management.
First, it is used to draw sheep together. A shepherd will gently lift a newborn lamb and bring it to its mother if they become separated. He does not touch the lamb, for the mother will reject her offspring if it bears the odor of his hands upon it. He will also use the staff to reach out and catch individual sheep and draw them close to himself for examination.
Second, the staff is used for guiding sheep. The shepherd uses his staff to keep his sheep from dangerous paths. Sometimes a shepherd will use his staff and hold it against the side of the sheep and walk along in this way as if they were hand-in-hand.
Finally the staff is used to set sheep free who find themselves stuck in brambles or wild roses. Soon they are so hooked in their wool they cannot pull free. Only the staff sets them free of their entanglements.
Mr. Keller suggests that the Spirit of God can be likened to the shepherd's staff. I must agree. First, the Holy Spirit draws Christians together into a warm, personal fellowship with one another. He draws you to Christ, your very personal Lord and Savior. He says, "Come". (Rev. 22:17)
Second, the Holy Spirit, our Comforter, guides you and will keep you from danger. He gently, tenderly, lovingly and persistently challenges you: "This is the way - walk in it" (Is. 30:21). If you and I allow it, the Holy Spirit will continually bring home to us the wonderful comfort of knowing that we are God's children and He is our Father. There is amazing comfort in receiving the truth that you belong to the Good Shepherd and you are under His care. (John 16:13). Years ago someone told me to put my hand on my shoulder whenever I felt the need to be reminded how close Holy Spirit is to me. I still do that and would encourage you to do the same. Just as the shepherd lovingly places his staff on the sheep's side and walks with him, so to the Spirit of the Living God is with us.
Finally the Holy Spirit will lead you to all truth that will set you free. (John 8:32) We get ourselves into places that we simply cannot get free of. In tenderness and compassion the Holy Spirit will lift us up.
Dear one, most surely His rod and His staff they comfort us.
Consider lifting before the Lord the following prayer:
Dear Lord, Today I declare freely that I welcome you to be my Good Shepherd. I invite you to use the rod of your Word in my life. I invite you to set your staff, Holy Spirit, upon me to search me and know my heart. Reveal any way in me that needs your loving correction. I long for your Word to be so a part of me that it shines a light through me that will keep my feet on a path of righteousness. I long for Your Holy Spirit to lead me to all Truth, to bring revelation of Your Word, to draw me to You, and to set me free from every snare in my life. I thank you that you are a loving and compassionate Shepherd; slow to anger and abounding in loving-kindness. I know that you alone, in tenderness and compassion, lift me up. In the name of Jesus, my Good Shepherd, I pray. Amen.
Patricia L. Wenzel,
WOC Graduate
DIGGING DEEPER
James 4:1-3
Come now, you rich, weep and howl for the miseries that are coming upon you. Your riches have rotted and your garments are motheaten. Your gold and silver have corroded and their corrosion will be evidence against you and will eat your flesh like fire. You have laid up treasure in the last days.
It's finally here!!! Crossing the Jordan: Living Victoriously in Difficult Relationships by Diane Hunt, MaryAnn Kiernan, DeEtta Marsh, Stephanie Paul and Betsy Shoppy (several of our Victory Call writers). Today's Victory Call is just a taste of what you will find in this Bible Study for women. Although it was originally written for wives of men in addiction it has already been a blessing to women from various circumstances and relationships: moms, siblings, daughters, wives, fiancees' etc. Most of the 14 chapters are applicable to any woman in any situation. To secure your own copy contact America's Keswick Guest Services 732.350.1187 $16.00. If you have any questions contact Diane Hunt at dhunt@americaskeswick.org.
Wednesday, September 28, 2011
A Message from Psalm 23 - Part 2
"Thy Rod and Thy Staff They Comfort Me"
Please note that this is part 2 of a message from Psalm 23. The messages are taken from a book written by Phillip Keller, A Shepherd Looks at Psalm 23, and copyright 1970.
For years when I read Psalm 23 and got to the part about the "rod and staff", I thought it meant that I should view the discipline of the Lord as a comfort. When I was a child and my parents had to discipline me I never found it a "comfort". Eventually I would recognize the value of it but a comfort? Really?
Mr. Keller shares wonderful insight concerning the "rod and staff". David, the writer of the psalm, would have been very familiar with how a shepherd used a rod and staff with his sheep.
In the Middle East the shepherd always carries a rod and staff. Each shepherd boy, Mr. Keller explains, takes special pride in the selection of a rod and staff suited to his own size and strength.
Today let us take a look at the rod. First of all the young shepherd will spend hours practicing how to throw his club with amazing speed and accuracy. That rod will become his main weapon of defense for not only himself but also the sheep under his charge. He will drive off predators like coyotes, wolves, cougars or, as David did, a lion or bear.
The rod was also used to examine the sheep. Sheep need careful examination. Due to their long wool it is not easy to detect disease, wounds or defects in sheep. A skilled shepherd can use his rod and part the sheep's wool to determine the condition of the skin, the cleanliness of the fleece and the conformation of the body. The picture presented is of a shepherd who stops every sheep with his outstretched rod before he lets him through the gate and into the fields. His skillful hands will check the sheep so that all problems become laid bare and can be attended to.
What a great picture!! The Lord is our Good Shepherd. He is waiting for us to invite Him to use His rod to search us. Psalm 139:23-24 says "Search me, O God, and know my heart: try me and know my thoughts: and see if there be any wicked way in me and lead me in the way everlasting."
You may ask, what is God's rod? When Jesus was in the wilderness and was tempted by Satan, the rod His Father gave Him was the Word. Dear one, there is simply no substitute for Scripture. We live in a world where many live by a code of conduct that is contrary to Christ-likeness. I know you see and hear it every day as I do. Ladies, it is His Word that we can count on again and again to counter the attacks of the enemy, to be our rod. The Word will lead us to all truth that will lead to freedom in Christ. The Word of God will get below the surface, way beneath the plastic smile we might wear on Sundays. It will get deep into our will and expose things that need to be made right. Our Good Shepherd has our best interests at heart. He will tenderly and compassionately search our hearts. We can trust in God's loving care.
Tomorrow we will address His staff.
Be blessed,
Patricia Wenzel
WOC Graduate
DIGGING DEEPER
James 5:1-3
Come now, you rich, weep and howl for the miseries that are coming upon you. Your riches have rotted and your garments are motheater. Your gold and silver have corroded and their corrosion will be evidence against you and will eat your flesh like fire. You have laid up trasure in the last days.
It's finally here!!! Crossing the Jordan: Living Victoriously in Difficult Relationships by Diane Hunt, MaryAnn Kiernan, DeEtta Marsh, Stephanie Paul and Betsy Shoppy (several of our Victory Call writers). Today's Victory Call is just a taste of what you will find in this Bible Study for women. Although it was originally written for wives of men in addiction it has already been a blessing to women from various circumstances and relationships: moms, siblings, daughters, wives, fiancees' etc. Most of the 14 chapters are applicable to any woman in any situation. To secure your own copy contact America's Keswick Guest Services 732.350.1187 $16.00. If you have any questions contact Diane Hunt at dhunt@americaskeswick.org.
Please note that this is part 2 of a message from Psalm 23. The messages are taken from a book written by Phillip Keller, A Shepherd Looks at Psalm 23, and copyright 1970.
For years when I read Psalm 23 and got to the part about the "rod and staff", I thought it meant that I should view the discipline of the Lord as a comfort. When I was a child and my parents had to discipline me I never found it a "comfort". Eventually I would recognize the value of it but a comfort? Really?
Mr. Keller shares wonderful insight concerning the "rod and staff". David, the writer of the psalm, would have been very familiar with how a shepherd used a rod and staff with his sheep.
In the Middle East the shepherd always carries a rod and staff. Each shepherd boy, Mr. Keller explains, takes special pride in the selection of a rod and staff suited to his own size and strength.
Today let us take a look at the rod. First of all the young shepherd will spend hours practicing how to throw his club with amazing speed and accuracy. That rod will become his main weapon of defense for not only himself but also the sheep under his charge. He will drive off predators like coyotes, wolves, cougars or, as David did, a lion or bear.
The rod was also used to examine the sheep. Sheep need careful examination. Due to their long wool it is not easy to detect disease, wounds or defects in sheep. A skilled shepherd can use his rod and part the sheep's wool to determine the condition of the skin, the cleanliness of the fleece and the conformation of the body. The picture presented is of a shepherd who stops every sheep with his outstretched rod before he lets him through the gate and into the fields. His skillful hands will check the sheep so that all problems become laid bare and can be attended to.
What a great picture!! The Lord is our Good Shepherd. He is waiting for us to invite Him to use His rod to search us. Psalm 139:23-24 says "Search me, O God, and know my heart: try me and know my thoughts: and see if there be any wicked way in me and lead me in the way everlasting."
You may ask, what is God's rod? When Jesus was in the wilderness and was tempted by Satan, the rod His Father gave Him was the Word. Dear one, there is simply no substitute for Scripture. We live in a world where many live by a code of conduct that is contrary to Christ-likeness. I know you see and hear it every day as I do. Ladies, it is His Word that we can count on again and again to counter the attacks of the enemy, to be our rod. The Word will lead us to all truth that will lead to freedom in Christ. The Word of God will get below the surface, way beneath the plastic smile we might wear on Sundays. It will get deep into our will and expose things that need to be made right. Our Good Shepherd has our best interests at heart. He will tenderly and compassionately search our hearts. We can trust in God's loving care.
Tomorrow we will address His staff.
Be blessed,
Patricia Wenzel
WOC Graduate
DIGGING DEEPER
James 5:1-3
Come now, you rich, weep and howl for the miseries that are coming upon you. Your riches have rotted and your garments are motheater. Your gold and silver have corroded and their corrosion will be evidence against you and will eat your flesh like fire. You have laid up trasure in the last days.
It's finally here!!! Crossing the Jordan: Living Victoriously in Difficult Relationships by Diane Hunt, MaryAnn Kiernan, DeEtta Marsh, Stephanie Paul and Betsy Shoppy (several of our Victory Call writers). Today's Victory Call is just a taste of what you will find in this Bible Study for women. Although it was originally written for wives of men in addiction it has already been a blessing to women from various circumstances and relationships: moms, siblings, daughters, wives, fiancees' etc. Most of the 14 chapters are applicable to any woman in any situation. To secure your own copy contact America's Keswick Guest Services 732.350.1187 $16.00. If you have any questions contact Diane Hunt at dhunt@americaskeswick.org.
Tuesday, September 27, 2011
A Message from Psalm 23 - Part 1
"He Restoreth My Soul"
Recently I have been reading a very old book by Phillip Keller titled A Shepherd Looks at Psalm 23. It has been very interesting reading through this book with a copyright date of 1970. Although over 40 years old, it is filled with simple truth and, no matter how old the book is, the material within its pages is relevant.
Phillip Keller was a shepherd. He shares great insight into this old familiar and, for many, favorite psalm. However, there was one chapter that particularly touched and challenged my heart. Let me share it with you. It was Chapter Five, "He Restoreth My Soul".
Surely we have all been in a place from time to time when our soul was in need of restoration. During times of frustration, temptation, and feelings of hopelessness we might just cry out to God as David did in Psalm 42, "Why art thou cast down, O my soul? And why art thou disquieted within me? Hope thou in God." Mr. Keller explains what a "cast" sheep is.
"When a lamb is 'cast' it is lying on its back, its feet are in the air, it flays away frantically and struggles to stand up, but it cannot. The lamb might bleat for help, but generally it lies there lashing about in frightened frustration. If the shepherd does not come and right the lamb, he will soon die. Therefore a Good Shepherd keeps a close eye on his sheep. He counts them often to be sure they are all accounted for. But it is the shepherd who keeps a close watch, so do buzzards, vultures, dogs, coyotes and cougars. They too know a cast sheep is easy prey. Interestingly he relates that even the largest, fattest, strongest and sometimes healthiest sheep can become 'cast' and become a casualty."
Here is how it happens. "A heavy, fat, or long-fleeced sheep will lie down comfortably in some little hollow or depression in the ground. It may roll on its side slightly to stretch out or relax. Suddenly the center of gravity in the body shifts so that it turns on its back far enough that the feet no longer touch the ground. It may feel a sense of panic and start to paw frantically. Frequently this only makes things worse. It rolls over even further. Now it is quite impossible for it to regain its feet."
There are times in my life when I am feeling rather hopeless or frustrated. Instead of releasing my soul and my anxiety to my Good Shepherd and seeking His help, I might lay down and zone out or take matters in my own hands and try to "fix" whatever is wrong. I might even think I simply can't take this to my heavenly Father again. He must be so sick of my same old dilemma. But no, Jesus, our Good Shepherd knows us full well. He says cast your anxiety upon me, I care for you.
(1 Peter 5:7) The tenderness, the love, the patience of Jesus is throughout the scripture. Let us not be like the lamb that looks for the comfortable, familiar, soft ground. Let us not allow ourselves to get "fat" and cling on to the things of this world so that we cannot stand. Let us cling onto our Good Shepherd. Let Him pick us up; clean us up so that we are not so "heavy" any more. Let us move to those green pastures He directs us to. Let us receive His direction and discipline. It will produce a life of knowing how to cast our frustration and hopelessness upon the one who can restore our soul.
Let me encourage you......
The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want.
He maketh me to lie down in green pasture, He leadeth me beside the still waters.
He restoreth my soul: He leadeth me in theaths of righteousness for His name's sake.
Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death; I will fear no evil: for thou
art with me; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me. Thou preparest a table before me in the
presence of mine enemies: thou anointest my head with oil; my cup runneth over.
Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all?the days of my life; and I will dwell in the
house of the Lord for ever.Psalm 23
Patricia L. Wenzel
WOC Graduate
DIGGING DEEPER
James 5:1-3
Come now you rich, weep and howl for the miseries that are coming upon you. Your riches have rotted and your garments are motheaten. Your gold and silver have corroded, and their corrosion will be evidence against you and will eat your flesh like fire. You have laid up treasure in the last days.
Recently I have been reading a very old book by Phillip Keller titled A Shepherd Looks at Psalm 23. It has been very interesting reading through this book with a copyright date of 1970. Although over 40 years old, it is filled with simple truth and, no matter how old the book is, the material within its pages is relevant.
Phillip Keller was a shepherd. He shares great insight into this old familiar and, for many, favorite psalm. However, there was one chapter that particularly touched and challenged my heart. Let me share it with you. It was Chapter Five, "He Restoreth My Soul".
Surely we have all been in a place from time to time when our soul was in need of restoration. During times of frustration, temptation, and feelings of hopelessness we might just cry out to God as David did in Psalm 42, "Why art thou cast down, O my soul? And why art thou disquieted within me? Hope thou in God." Mr. Keller explains what a "cast" sheep is.
"When a lamb is 'cast' it is lying on its back, its feet are in the air, it flays away frantically and struggles to stand up, but it cannot. The lamb might bleat for help, but generally it lies there lashing about in frightened frustration. If the shepherd does not come and right the lamb, he will soon die. Therefore a Good Shepherd keeps a close eye on his sheep. He counts them often to be sure they are all accounted for. But it is the shepherd who keeps a close watch, so do buzzards, vultures, dogs, coyotes and cougars. They too know a cast sheep is easy prey. Interestingly he relates that even the largest, fattest, strongest and sometimes healthiest sheep can become 'cast' and become a casualty."
Here is how it happens. "A heavy, fat, or long-fleeced sheep will lie down comfortably in some little hollow or depression in the ground. It may roll on its side slightly to stretch out or relax. Suddenly the center of gravity in the body shifts so that it turns on its back far enough that the feet no longer touch the ground. It may feel a sense of panic and start to paw frantically. Frequently this only makes things worse. It rolls over even further. Now it is quite impossible for it to regain its feet."
There are times in my life when I am feeling rather hopeless or frustrated. Instead of releasing my soul and my anxiety to my Good Shepherd and seeking His help, I might lay down and zone out or take matters in my own hands and try to "fix" whatever is wrong. I might even think I simply can't take this to my heavenly Father again. He must be so sick of my same old dilemma. But no, Jesus, our Good Shepherd knows us full well. He says cast your anxiety upon me, I care for you.
(1 Peter 5:7) The tenderness, the love, the patience of Jesus is throughout the scripture. Let us not be like the lamb that looks for the comfortable, familiar, soft ground. Let us not allow ourselves to get "fat" and cling on to the things of this world so that we cannot stand. Let us cling onto our Good Shepherd. Let Him pick us up; clean us up so that we are not so "heavy" any more. Let us move to those green pastures He directs us to. Let us receive His direction and discipline. It will produce a life of knowing how to cast our frustration and hopelessness upon the one who can restore our soul.
Let me encourage you......
The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want.
He maketh me to lie down in green pasture, He leadeth me beside the still waters.
He restoreth my soul: He leadeth me in theaths of righteousness for His name's sake.
Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death; I will fear no evil: for thou
art with me; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me. Thou preparest a table before me in the
presence of mine enemies: thou anointest my head with oil; my cup runneth over.
Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all?the days of my life; and I will dwell in the
house of the Lord for ever.Psalm 23
Patricia L. Wenzel
WOC Graduate
DIGGING DEEPER
James 5:1-3
Come now you rich, weep and howl for the miseries that are coming upon you. Your riches have rotted and your garments are motheaten. Your gold and silver have corroded, and their corrosion will be evidence against you and will eat your flesh like fire. You have laid up treasure in the last days.
Monday, September 26, 2011
Digging Deeper James 5:1-3
Last night in a brief conversation with some sisters in the Lord, we were talking about the falleness of the world because of sin. It occurred to me to ask - "I wonder if the effects of sin reach through the entire universe or whether they are earth-bound." In other words, God created billions and billions of galaxies; did the fall in the Garden of Eden impact all of His creation or just the part man is part of? -- I don't know the answer but it made me stop and think. It's really not even that important because we know for certain that our world is depraved, decaying and dying. The effects of sin influence every aspect of creation and life.
James 5:1-3
Come now, you rich, weep and howl for the miseries that are coming upon you. Your riches have rotted and your garments are moth-eaten. Your gold and silver have corroded, and their corrosion will be evidence against you and will eat your flesh like fire. You have laid up treasure in the last days.
Commentary:
James 5:1-6 Warning to the rich. James turns his attention from business people...to wealthy landowners... who controlled much of Galilee, and indeed much of the Roman Empire. He denounces them for their materialistic accumulation of wealth, for defrauding their workers, and for their self-indulgent actions that have led to the deaths of innocent, righteous people.
Weep and howl. Prophetic language for those under indictment by God when the day of the Lord arrives...miseries that are coming. Referring to final judgment, rather than the miseries of this life.
Riches, garments, and gold sum up the sumptuous, materialistic lifestyle of these landowners. These things will not only be lost forever but will be evidence at their final trial before God and will feed the very flames of the lake of fire, where they will spend eternity. [ESV Study Bible Study notes pg. 2398]
Blessings,
Diane
Diane Hunt is the Director of Addiction Recovery and 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 26 years. She has 2 children, 3 grandchildren, 3 step-children, and 7 step-grandchildren.
It's finally here!!! Crossing the Jordan: Living Victoriously in Difficult Relationships by Diane Hunt, MaryAnn Kiernan, DeEtta Marsh, Stephanie Paul and Betsy Shoppy (several of our Victory Call writers). Today's Victory Call is just a taste of what you will find in this Bible Study for women. Although it was originally written for wives of men in addiction it has already been a blessing to women from various circumstances and relationships: moms, siblings, daughters, wives, fiancees' etc. Most of the 14 chapters are applicable to any woman in any situation. To secure your own copy contact America's Keswick Guest Services 732.350.1187 $16.00. If you have any questions contact Diane Hunt at dhunt@americaskeswick.org.
James 5:1-3
Come now, you rich, weep and howl for the miseries that are coming upon you. Your riches have rotted and your garments are moth-eaten. Your gold and silver have corroded, and their corrosion will be evidence against you and will eat your flesh like fire. You have laid up treasure in the last days.
Commentary:
James 5:1-6 Warning to the rich. James turns his attention from business people...to wealthy landowners... who controlled much of Galilee, and indeed much of the Roman Empire. He denounces them for their materialistic accumulation of wealth, for defrauding their workers, and for their self-indulgent actions that have led to the deaths of innocent, righteous people.
Weep and howl. Prophetic language for those under indictment by God when the day of the Lord arrives...miseries that are coming. Referring to final judgment, rather than the miseries of this life.
Riches, garments, and gold sum up the sumptuous, materialistic lifestyle of these landowners. These things will not only be lost forever but will be evidence at their final trial before God and will feed the very flames of the lake of fire, where they will spend eternity. [ESV Study Bible Study notes pg. 2398]
Blessings,
Diane
Diane Hunt is the Director of Addiction Recovery and 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 26 years. She has 2 children, 3 grandchildren, 3 step-children, and 7 step-grandchildren.
It's finally here!!! Crossing the Jordan: Living Victoriously in Difficult Relationships by Diane Hunt, MaryAnn Kiernan, DeEtta Marsh, Stephanie Paul and Betsy Shoppy (several of our Victory Call writers). Today's Victory Call is just a taste of what you will find in this Bible Study for women. Although it was originally written for wives of men in addiction it has already been a blessing to women from various circumstances and relationships: moms, siblings, daughters, wives, fiancees' etc. Most of the 14 chapters are applicable to any woman in any situation. To secure your own copy contact America's Keswick Guest Services 732.350.1187 $16.00. If you have any questions contact Diane Hunt at dhunt@americaskeswick.org.
Friday, September 23, 2011
Digging Deeper James 4:15-16 Points to Ponder
We have just 15 more weeks in the book of James. I hope you are being blessed through your meditations and meanderings through this short but practical book.
James 4:15-16
Instead you ought to say, "If the Lord wills, we will live and do this or that." As it is, you boast in your arrogance. All such boasting is evil.
Points to ponder
Whether we say the words "If the Lord wills" or not, it is important that our heart attitude and actions reflect that we believe it. I think sometimes people tag that statement on the end of what they are saying like a by-line, but it sounds scripted and shallow, as if they were saying it because they think they should. Personally, I am more impressed and touched by the people I know that may not say, "if the Lord wills" but their life shouts it with every expression, every decision and every action. I want to be more like THAT.
Blessings,
Diane
Diane Hunt is the Director of Addiction Recovery and 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 26 years. She has 2 children, 3 grandchildren, 3 step-children, and 7 step-grandchildren.
It's finally here!!! Crossing the Jordan: Living Victoriously in Difficult Relationships by Diane Hunt, MaryAnn Kiernan, DeEtta Marsh, Stephanie Paul and Betsy Shoppy (several of our Victory Call writers). Today's Victory Call is just a taste of what you will find in this Bible Study for women. Although it was originally written for wives of men in addiction it has already been a blessing to women from various circumstances and relationships: moms, siblings, daughters, wives, fiancees, etc. Most of the 14 chapters are applicable to any woman in any situation. To secure your own copy contact America's Keswick Guest Services 732.350.1187 $16.00. If you have any questions contact Diane Hunt at dhunt@americaskeswick.org.
James 4:15-16
Instead you ought to say, "If the Lord wills, we will live and do this or that." As it is, you boast in your arrogance. All such boasting is evil.
Points to ponder
Whether we say the words "If the Lord wills" or not, it is important that our heart attitude and actions reflect that we believe it. I think sometimes people tag that statement on the end of what they are saying like a by-line, but it sounds scripted and shallow, as if they were saying it because they think they should. Personally, I am more impressed and touched by the people I know that may not say, "if the Lord wills" but their life shouts it with every expression, every decision and every action. I want to be more like THAT.
Blessings,
Diane
Diane Hunt is the Director of Addiction Recovery and 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 26 years. She has 2 children, 3 grandchildren, 3 step-children, and 7 step-grandchildren.
It's finally here!!! Crossing the Jordan: Living Victoriously in Difficult Relationships by Diane Hunt, MaryAnn Kiernan, DeEtta Marsh, Stephanie Paul and Betsy Shoppy (several of our Victory Call writers). Today's Victory Call is just a taste of what you will find in this Bible Study for women. Although it was originally written for wives of men in addiction it has already been a blessing to women from various circumstances and relationships: moms, siblings, daughters, wives, fiancees, etc. Most of the 14 chapters are applicable to any woman in any situation. To secure your own copy contact America's Keswick Guest Services 732.350.1187 $16.00. If you have any questions contact Diane Hunt at dhunt@americaskeswick.org.
Thursday, September 22, 2011
Results of Unresolved Anger - BITTERNESS AND RESENTMENT
If the pattern of anger is not realized and confessed, repenting and asking forgiveness before God, the sinful anger continues taking root in our hearts as bitterness. In God's Word, the Bible, we are cautioned to be "looking carefully lest anyone fall short of the grace of God; lest any root of bitterness springing up cause trouble, and by this many become defiled;" Hebrews 12:15.
Bitterness has a good memory of the past wrongs others have committed against us, and as we brood on them and rehash the situations, the memories grow larger and soon a spirit of resentment and bitterness becomes the pattern of our life. Beth Moore, author of Praying God's Word, makes this statement, "...since the root feeds the rest of the tree, every branch of our lives and every fruit on each limb ultimately becomes poisoned."1
Some of the "poisoned fruit", or symptoms, of a stronghold of bitterness manifested in a person's life may appear as behaviors of complaining constantly, depression, nit-picking, frequent illness, and lack of energy. Bitterness is perpetuated by practicing bitterness; it is like a cumulative snowball that grows larger by feeding on itself. There may be certain times or places that a person rehashes or broods on particular events that perpetuate the bitterness. In the book, Women Helping Women, author Penny J. Orr uses the term "rituals of addiction"2 which describes this type of behavior that leads to any bondage, such as that of bitterness. I have found that the way out of this cycle is by "...bringing every thought into captivity to the obedience of Christ,..." (2 Corinthians 10:5). This is done by prayer, surrendering those thoughts, words and actions to Him by praying for the person or situation that has brought up the bitterness within you.
Remember that the offender is not as hurt as you are by your anger, bitterness and resentful spirit. By genuinely releasing these hurts to God and forgiving those who have offended you, there will be freedom from the stronghold of bitterness in your life as God brings healing - emotionally and spiritually. Author Gary Chapman states, "It is never our job to vindicate ourselves by making people pay for their wrongs."3 "Repay no one evil for evil. Have regard for good things in the sight of all men. If it is possible, as much as depends on you, live peaceably with all men. Beloved, do not avenge yourselves, but rather give place to wrath; for it is written, "Vengeance is Mine, I will repay," says the Lord" (Romans 12: 17-19).
A change in our thought patterns is now necessary since negative thinking feeds bitterness. Negative thoughts need to be replaced with kind-hearted thoughts and biblical truth. Two Scriptures that will bring the focus toward filtering our thoughts are Ephesians 4: 31, 32, "Let all bitterness, wrath, anger, clamor and evil speaking be put away from you, with all malice. And be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God in Christ forgave you." And Philippians 4:8, "Finally, brethren, whatever things are true, whatever things are noble, whatever things are just, whatever things are pure, whatever things are lovely, whatever things are of good report, if there is any virtue and if there is anything praiseworthy - mediate on these things."
1 Beth Moore, Praying God's Word, 2000.
2 Penny J. Orr, Chapter 15 "Counseling Women with Addictions"; Women Helping Women, Elyse Fitzpatrick & Carol Cornish, General Editors, 1997.
3 Gary Chapman, The Other Side of Love, 1999.
(For more about overcoming Bitterness & Resentment, see Chapter 7, "Anger and Bitterness", in Crossing the Jordan, CLC)
(The topic of Forgiveness is covered more fully in Chapter 8, "Biblical Forgiveness", in Crossing the Jordan, CLC)
DIGGING DEEPER
James 4:15-16
Instead you ought to say, "If the Lord wills, we will live and do this or that." As it is, you boast in your arrogance. All such boasting is evil.
It's finally here!!! Crossing the Jordan: Living Victoriously in Difficult Relationships by Diane Hunt, MaryAnn Kiernan, DeEtta Marsh, Stephanie Paul and Betsy Shoppy (several of our Victory Call writers). Today's Victory Call is just a taste of what you will find in this Bible Study for women. Although it was originally written for wives of men in addiction it has already been a blessing to women from various circumstances and relationships: moms, siblings, daughters, wives, fiancees, etc. Most of the 14 chapters are applicable to any woman in any situation. To secure your own copy contact America's Keswick Guest Services 732.350.1187 $16.00. If you have any questions contact Diane Hunt at dhunt@americaskeswick.org.
Bitterness has a good memory of the past wrongs others have committed against us, and as we brood on them and rehash the situations, the memories grow larger and soon a spirit of resentment and bitterness becomes the pattern of our life. Beth Moore, author of Praying God's Word, makes this statement, "...since the root feeds the rest of the tree, every branch of our lives and every fruit on each limb ultimately becomes poisoned."1
Some of the "poisoned fruit", or symptoms, of a stronghold of bitterness manifested in a person's life may appear as behaviors of complaining constantly, depression, nit-picking, frequent illness, and lack of energy. Bitterness is perpetuated by practicing bitterness; it is like a cumulative snowball that grows larger by feeding on itself. There may be certain times or places that a person rehashes or broods on particular events that perpetuate the bitterness. In the book, Women Helping Women, author Penny J. Orr uses the term "rituals of addiction"2 which describes this type of behavior that leads to any bondage, such as that of bitterness. I have found that the way out of this cycle is by "...bringing every thought into captivity to the obedience of Christ,..." (2 Corinthians 10:5). This is done by prayer, surrendering those thoughts, words and actions to Him by praying for the person or situation that has brought up the bitterness within you.
Remember that the offender is not as hurt as you are by your anger, bitterness and resentful spirit. By genuinely releasing these hurts to God and forgiving those who have offended you, there will be freedom from the stronghold of bitterness in your life as God brings healing - emotionally and spiritually. Author Gary Chapman states, "It is never our job to vindicate ourselves by making people pay for their wrongs."3 "Repay no one evil for evil. Have regard for good things in the sight of all men. If it is possible, as much as depends on you, live peaceably with all men. Beloved, do not avenge yourselves, but rather give place to wrath; for it is written, "Vengeance is Mine, I will repay," says the Lord" (Romans 12: 17-19).
A change in our thought patterns is now necessary since negative thinking feeds bitterness. Negative thoughts need to be replaced with kind-hearted thoughts and biblical truth. Two Scriptures that will bring the focus toward filtering our thoughts are Ephesians 4: 31, 32, "Let all bitterness, wrath, anger, clamor and evil speaking be put away from you, with all malice. And be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God in Christ forgave you." And Philippians 4:8, "Finally, brethren, whatever things are true, whatever things are noble, whatever things are just, whatever things are pure, whatever things are lovely, whatever things are of good report, if there is any virtue and if there is anything praiseworthy - mediate on these things."
1 Beth Moore, Praying God's Word, 2000.
2 Penny J. Orr, Chapter 15 "Counseling Women with Addictions"; Women Helping Women, Elyse Fitzpatrick & Carol Cornish, General Editors, 1997.
3 Gary Chapman, The Other Side of Love, 1999.
(For more about overcoming Bitterness & Resentment, see Chapter 7, "Anger and Bitterness", in Crossing the Jordan, CLC)
(The topic of Forgiveness is covered more fully in Chapter 8, "Biblical Forgiveness", in Crossing the Jordan, CLC)
DIGGING DEEPER
James 4:15-16
Instead you ought to say, "If the Lord wills, we will live and do this or that." As it is, you boast in your arrogance. All such boasting is evil.
It's finally here!!! Crossing the Jordan: Living Victoriously in Difficult Relationships by Diane Hunt, MaryAnn Kiernan, DeEtta Marsh, Stephanie Paul and Betsy Shoppy (several of our Victory Call writers). Today's Victory Call is just a taste of what you will find in this Bible Study for women. Although it was originally written for wives of men in addiction it has already been a blessing to women from various circumstances and relationships: moms, siblings, daughters, wives, fiancees, etc. Most of the 14 chapters are applicable to any woman in any situation. To secure your own copy contact America's Keswick Guest Services 732.350.1187 $16.00. If you have any questions contact Diane Hunt at dhunt@americaskeswick.org.
Wednesday, September 21, 2011
DON'T MISS IT!
I observed the woman in the grocery check-out line just ahead of me. Her small children were busy climbing on the over-laden cart. The woman seemed concerned with what the total bill might be.
My husband and I bantered back and forth with the woman and her children. We even suggested some membership food stores that might help her keep the cost down. She explained that she came to this store because she was new in town and she didn't fear getting lost when she came to this store since it was an easy and direct drive from her home.
Her bill was finally totaled and it was quite high. The young woman sighed and paid the bill with a credit card.
It was the middle of the night before it hit me...I could have paid that bill! Why didn't I think of that when I was in the check-out line? I had let an opportunity go by to represent Jesus well. Why?
I wasn't really looking for a chance to represent the Lord well, was I?
Paying for that young woman's groceries would have been a big thing, at least to her, and I missed it, but I often miss the smaller opportunities, too...a chance to buy lunch for a homeless person, a simple thank you to a discouraged person, thank you notes often can be forgotten, a note of encouragement to someone who feels perhaps unnoticed.
When our children were little, we served in a Christian ministry and had cut our salary in half to join the ministry. One Sunday, I was grumbling and groaning about how little food we had in the house and how my family deserved better fare than I could give them. I continued to mumble and grumble as I perused my pantry. I found a can of pears and I also found some cream cheese in the refrigerator, so I put pieces of lettuce on individual salad plates, placed the pear on top, rolled some cream cheese into a ball and placed it in the center of the pear. My attempt to "fancy-up" the meal looked very meager to me, but my young son came into the dining area, saw the salad and said "Boy mom, we're living more like millionaires every day!"
Dear Lord, Please keep my eyes open so that I can see opportunities to represent You well. Don't let me miss my chance, Lord.
Prov. 3:27 Withhold not good from them to whom it is due, when it is in the power of thine hand to do it.
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
James 4:15-16
Instead you ought to say, "If the Lord wills, we will live and do this or that." As it is, you boast in your arrogance. All such boasting is evil.
It's finally here!!! Crossing the Jordan: Living Victoriously in Difficult Relationships by Diane Hunt, MaryAnn Kiernan, DeEtta Marsh, Stephanie Paul and Betsy Shoppy (several of our Victory Call writers). Today's Victory Call is just a taste of what you will find in this Bible Study for women. Although it was originally written for wives of men in addiction it has already been a blessing to women from various circumstances and relationships: moms, siblings, daughters, wives, fiancees, etc. Most of the 14 chapters are applicable to any woman in any situation. To secure your own copy contact America's Keswick Guest Services 732.350.1187 $16.00. If you have any questions contact Diane Hunt at dhunt@americaskeswick.org.
My husband and I bantered back and forth with the woman and her children. We even suggested some membership food stores that might help her keep the cost down. She explained that she came to this store because she was new in town and she didn't fear getting lost when she came to this store since it was an easy and direct drive from her home.
Her bill was finally totaled and it was quite high. The young woman sighed and paid the bill with a credit card.
It was the middle of the night before it hit me...I could have paid that bill! Why didn't I think of that when I was in the check-out line? I had let an opportunity go by to represent Jesus well. Why?
I wasn't really looking for a chance to represent the Lord well, was I?
Paying for that young woman's groceries would have been a big thing, at least to her, and I missed it, but I often miss the smaller opportunities, too...a chance to buy lunch for a homeless person, a simple thank you to a discouraged person, thank you notes often can be forgotten, a note of encouragement to someone who feels perhaps unnoticed.
When our children were little, we served in a Christian ministry and had cut our salary in half to join the ministry. One Sunday, I was grumbling and groaning about how little food we had in the house and how my family deserved better fare than I could give them. I continued to mumble and grumble as I perused my pantry. I found a can of pears and I also found some cream cheese in the refrigerator, so I put pieces of lettuce on individual salad plates, placed the pear on top, rolled some cream cheese into a ball and placed it in the center of the pear. My attempt to "fancy-up" the meal looked very meager to me, but my young son came into the dining area, saw the salad and said "Boy mom, we're living more like millionaires every day!"
Dear Lord, Please keep my eyes open so that I can see opportunities to represent You well. Don't let me miss my chance, Lord.
Prov. 3:27 Withhold not good from them to whom it is due, when it is in the power of thine hand to do it.
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
James 4:15-16
Instead you ought to say, "If the Lord wills, we will live and do this or that." As it is, you boast in your arrogance. All such boasting is evil.
It's finally here!!! Crossing the Jordan: Living Victoriously in Difficult Relationships by Diane Hunt, MaryAnn Kiernan, DeEtta Marsh, Stephanie Paul and Betsy Shoppy (several of our Victory Call writers). Today's Victory Call is just a taste of what you will find in this Bible Study for women. Although it was originally written for wives of men in addiction it has already been a blessing to women from various circumstances and relationships: moms, siblings, daughters, wives, fiancees, etc. Most of the 14 chapters are applicable to any woman in any situation. To secure your own copy contact America's Keswick Guest Services 732.350.1187 $16.00. If you have any questions contact Diane Hunt at dhunt@americaskeswick.org.
Tuesday, September 20, 2011
How Do You Handle Your Anger?
Let's face it -- we all have a problem with anger at one time or another. How we should handle the annoyances, conflicts, offenses, and disappointments of our life is what is important for each of us to discover.
The first picture that comes to mind when we think of anger is one of rage and cruelty of a person toward another person or situation or object. But often anger can be expressed by holding it in and giving the silent treatment to those we are angry with. Neither of these reactions works successfully in resolving the problem, but often are directed toward a person and act as an influence in making things worse. Resentment and bitterness can result from prolonged anger in a person's life. Just seeking to change our behavior and "controlling our temper" is not a permanent solution to the problem either.
So how then should we handle our anger? By asking God to show us the root of our anger and biblical solution to deal with the problem, we can begin by trying to identify the "why?" or reason for our anger. One definition of anger is, "God-given energy to help us solve problems Biblically".1 Another is, "A powerful emotion that is often misused to hurt others."2 We react emotionally to unmet expectations or perceived injustices.
By journaling your anger reactions for a few days, it is easy to see the pattern of the anger in your own life. Perhaps there have been unmet expectations of others or self, fear of the future, the unknown, unfulfilled desires, goals and wants, or simply the desire for control. These all can lead to an anger reaction to our circumstances in life that reveals what is in our heart. When we become aware that our anger is an offense to God, confession and repentance are necessary for change to take place in our heart and life. Ephesians 4:31 and 32 tell us to replace "Bitterness, Anger, Wrath, Clamor, Evil speaking, and Malice" with "Forgiveness, Kindness, Tender-heartedness" because through Christ God has forgiven us. The Holy Spirit gives us the biblical alternative and the power to "aim all your energies at solving the problem God's way".3
Becoming aware of an offense, we must check our own motives, asking God to give direction in bringing about positive change for solving the problem, while seeking to not destroy another. Pray for wisdom.
1 CJBI Biblical Counseling class, Anger notes, Semester 3, Dr. Dan Skogen.
2 Anonymous. The A to Z Guide to Bible Application, 1996.
3 Jay E. Adams, "What Do You Do When Anger Gets the Upper Hand?", 1975.
(For more on Handling Your Anger, see Chapter 7, "Anger & Bitterness" in Crossing the Jordan, CLC)
DIGGING DEEPER
James 4:15-16
Instead you ought to say, "If the Lord wills, we will live and do this or that." As it is, you boast in your arrogance. All such boasting is evil.
It's finally here!!! Crossing the Jordan: Living Victoriously in Difficult Relationships by Diane Hunt, MaryAnn Kiernan, DeEtta Marsh, Stephanie Paul and Betsy Shoppy (several of our Victory Call writers). Today's Victory Call is just a taste of what you will find in this Bible Study for women. Although it was originally written for wives of men in addiction it has already been a blessing to women from various circumstances and relationships: moms, siblings, daughters, wives, fiancees, etc. Most of the 14 chapters are applicable to any woman in any situation. To secure your own copy contact America's Keswick Guest Services 732.350.1187 $16.00. If you have any questions contact Diane Hunt at dhunt@americaskeswick.org.
The first picture that comes to mind when we think of anger is one of rage and cruelty of a person toward another person or situation or object. But often anger can be expressed by holding it in and giving the silent treatment to those we are angry with. Neither of these reactions works successfully in resolving the problem, but often are directed toward a person and act as an influence in making things worse. Resentment and bitterness can result from prolonged anger in a person's life. Just seeking to change our behavior and "controlling our temper" is not a permanent solution to the problem either.
So how then should we handle our anger? By asking God to show us the root of our anger and biblical solution to deal with the problem, we can begin by trying to identify the "why?" or reason for our anger. One definition of anger is, "God-given energy to help us solve problems Biblically".1 Another is, "A powerful emotion that is often misused to hurt others."2 We react emotionally to unmet expectations or perceived injustices.
By journaling your anger reactions for a few days, it is easy to see the pattern of the anger in your own life. Perhaps there have been unmet expectations of others or self, fear of the future, the unknown, unfulfilled desires, goals and wants, or simply the desire for control. These all can lead to an anger reaction to our circumstances in life that reveals what is in our heart. When we become aware that our anger is an offense to God, confession and repentance are necessary for change to take place in our heart and life. Ephesians 4:31 and 32 tell us to replace "Bitterness, Anger, Wrath, Clamor, Evil speaking, and Malice" with "Forgiveness, Kindness, Tender-heartedness" because through Christ God has forgiven us. The Holy Spirit gives us the biblical alternative and the power to "aim all your energies at solving the problem God's way".3
Becoming aware of an offense, we must check our own motives, asking God to give direction in bringing about positive change for solving the problem, while seeking to not destroy another. Pray for wisdom.
1 CJBI Biblical Counseling class, Anger notes, Semester 3, Dr. Dan Skogen.
2 Anonymous. The A to Z Guide to Bible Application, 1996.
3 Jay E. Adams, "What Do You Do When Anger Gets the Upper Hand?", 1975.
(For more on Handling Your Anger, see Chapter 7, "Anger & Bitterness" in Crossing the Jordan, CLC)
DIGGING DEEPER
James 4:15-16
Instead you ought to say, "If the Lord wills, we will live and do this or that." As it is, you boast in your arrogance. All such boasting is evil.
It's finally here!!! Crossing the Jordan: Living Victoriously in Difficult Relationships by Diane Hunt, MaryAnn Kiernan, DeEtta Marsh, Stephanie Paul and Betsy Shoppy (several of our Victory Call writers). Today's Victory Call is just a taste of what you will find in this Bible Study for women. Although it was originally written for wives of men in addiction it has already been a blessing to women from various circumstances and relationships: moms, siblings, daughters, wives, fiancees, etc. Most of the 14 chapters are applicable to any woman in any situation. To secure your own copy contact America's Keswick Guest Services 732.350.1187 $16.00. If you have any questions contact Diane Hunt at dhunt@americaskeswick.org.
Monday, September 19, 2011
Digging Deeper James 4:15-16
Can you believe we are 2/3 of our way through 2011? It has been a very busy summer and I feel like I'm just coming up for air. I trust you have been seeking hard after God and know that He delights in you today wherever life happens to find you.
James 4:15-16
Instead you ought to say, "If the Lord wills, we will live and do this or that." As it is, you boast in your arrogance. All such boasting is evil.
Commentary
The key to vv. 13-17 is if the Lord wills, with "Lord" referring to Yahweh as the Creator who sustains the universe and whose will controls all that happens. Every business decision must be based on submission to God's will. [ESV study Bible notes pg. 2397] "If the Lord wills. The true Christian submits his plans to the lordship of Christ...boasting. Arrogant bragging about their anticipated business accomplishments." [The MacArthur Bible Commentary by John MacArthur pg. 1894]
Blessings,
Diane
Diane Hunt is the Director of Addiction Recovery and 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 26 years. She has 2 children, 3 grandchildren, 3 step-children, and 7 step-grandchildren.
It's finally here!!! Crossing the Jordan: Living Victoriously in Difficult Relationships by Diane Hunt, MaryAnn Kiernan, DeEtta Marsh, Stephanie Paul and Betsy Shoppy (several of our Victory Call writers). Today's Victory Call is just a taste of what you will find in this Bible Study for women. Although it was originally written for wives of men in addiction it has already been a blessing to women from various circumstances and relationships: moms, siblings, daughters, wives, fiancees, etc. Most of the 14 chapters are applicable to any woman in any situation. To secure your own copy contact America's Keswick Guest Services 732.350.1187 $16.00. If you have any questions contact Diane Hunt at dhunt@americaskeswick.org.
James 4:15-16
Instead you ought to say, "If the Lord wills, we will live and do this or that." As it is, you boast in your arrogance. All such boasting is evil.
Commentary
The key to vv. 13-17 is if the Lord wills, with "Lord" referring to Yahweh as the Creator who sustains the universe and whose will controls all that happens. Every business decision must be based on submission to God's will. [ESV study Bible notes pg. 2397] "If the Lord wills. The true Christian submits his plans to the lordship of Christ...boasting. Arrogant bragging about their anticipated business accomplishments." [The MacArthur Bible Commentary by John MacArthur pg. 1894]
Blessings,
Diane
Diane Hunt is the Director of Addiction Recovery and 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 26 years. She has 2 children, 3 grandchildren, 3 step-children, and 7 step-grandchildren.
It's finally here!!! Crossing the Jordan: Living Victoriously in Difficult Relationships by Diane Hunt, MaryAnn Kiernan, DeEtta Marsh, Stephanie Paul and Betsy Shoppy (several of our Victory Call writers). Today's Victory Call is just a taste of what you will find in this Bible Study for women. Although it was originally written for wives of men in addiction it has already been a blessing to women from various circumstances and relationships: moms, siblings, daughters, wives, fiancees, etc. Most of the 14 chapters are applicable to any woman in any situation. To secure your own copy contact America's Keswick Guest Services 732.350.1187 $16.00. If you have any questions contact Diane Hunt at dhunt@americaskeswick.org.
Friday, September 16, 2011
Digging Deeper James 4:14b with Points to Ponder
"What is your life? For you are a mist that appears for a little time and then vanishes."
Points to Ponder:
Maybe it's age. Maybe it is recent events with a friend's passing. I don't know, but I find myself giving some thought to the "What's next". Are you, like me, living mostly for today? I was thinking this week, am I storing up treasures in heaven? What heavenly reward am I sacrificing because I'm living more the self-life than the surrendered life?
What is a mist? It is nothing of substance that you can grip or grasp, try and it wafts away. Life is much like that. The harder we try to hang on the less of a hold we have on it.
I was reading in Psalms this morning, Psalm 39:4 "O LORD, make me know my end and what is the measure of my days; let me know how fleeting I am!" I wrote in the margin of my Bible, "Lord - am I living in light of eternity?" Because at the end of the day, at the end of my life, eternity will be all that matters.
Blessings,
Diane
Diane Hunt is the Director of Addiction Recovery and 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 26 years. She has 2 children, 3 grandchildren, 3 step-children, and 7 step-grandchildren.
Points to Ponder:
Maybe it's age. Maybe it is recent events with a friend's passing. I don't know, but I find myself giving some thought to the "What's next". Are you, like me, living mostly for today? I was thinking this week, am I storing up treasures in heaven? What heavenly reward am I sacrificing because I'm living more the self-life than the surrendered life?
What is a mist? It is nothing of substance that you can grip or grasp, try and it wafts away. Life is much like that. The harder we try to hang on the less of a hold we have on it.
I was reading in Psalms this morning, Psalm 39:4 "O LORD, make me know my end and what is the measure of my days; let me know how fleeting I am!" I wrote in the margin of my Bible, "Lord - am I living in light of eternity?" Because at the end of the day, at the end of my life, eternity will be all that matters.
Blessings,
Diane
Diane Hunt is the Director of Addiction Recovery and 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 26 years. She has 2 children, 3 grandchildren, 3 step-children, and 7 step-grandchildren.
Thursday, September 15, 2011
The Lie of Forgiving Yourself
Sometimes the guilt and shame of our past sin seems to overwhelm us. We may be stuck in the lie of "I just can't forgive myself." Have you been there in the past? Perhaps you are feeling that way now.
The idea of forgiving yourself doesn't have a biblical foundation, yet this forgiveness of self haunts so many of us. The idea of "forgiving yourself" is a concept that has come from the secular world but it has begun to infiltrate some churches and Christian/biblical counselors as well. But Jesus never prescribed forgiving yourself for your sins. It was Jesus who did the forgiving and admonished those He forgave to..."go and sin no more." (John 8:11)
You may "feel" that the only way you will be whole would be to forgive yourself. But there are some very important things to remember:
* In the concept of self forgiveness, you are actually placing yourself on the throne of judgment and have decided to be your own judge. But God is the only one who judges and the only one that forgives. You are actually placing yourself as sinner, judge and redeemer. And this can't be.
* If you have acknowledged your sin before God and if you have asked forgiveness of the one you have sinned against (if that is at all possible) then you must let it go. It is forgiven; Jesus paid the price once for all. You can't pay a debt that has already been paid. The blood of Jesus covered your sin.
o 1 John 1:7 "...the blood of Jesus Christ His Son cleanses us from all sin."
o Revelation 1:5 "...To Him [Jesus] who loved us and washed us from our sins in His own blood."
* If you still feel pain over your sin - rather than define it as a need to forgive yourself - think of it as regret and this is a totally normal response. Regret is sometimes mislabeled as not "feeling" forgiven. Regret can be a good emotion because it helps build humility and compassion in our hearts for others.
When feelings of pain or regret creep into your thinking, take the time to stop and think about God's forgiveness, that Jesus has stamped your debt of sin "paid in full". Then thank God for the blood of Jesus that made it all possible.
o Romans 8:1-2 "Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus, because through Christ Jesus the law of the Spirit of life set me free from the law of sin and death."
o Isaiah 43:25 " I, even I, am he who blots out your transgressions, for my own sake, and remembers your sin no more."
What a wonderful God we serve! He has done all the hard work and sacrifice and we just need to come to the place of truly understanding that Jesus is the one who paid the price to set me free! Halleluiah!
Mary Ann
Mary Ann Kiernan and John have been married for 36 years, have 2 grown/married sons and are the proud grandparents of three grandsons and finally... praise the Lord... a granddaughter! She serves at America's Keswick as a Biblical Counselor and the Intake Coordinator for the Colony of Mercy. Her life verse is Romans 8:28.
DIGGING DEEPER
James 4:14b
What is your life? For you are a mist that appears for a little time and then vanishes.
The idea of forgiving yourself doesn't have a biblical foundation, yet this forgiveness of self haunts so many of us. The idea of "forgiving yourself" is a concept that has come from the secular world but it has begun to infiltrate some churches and Christian/biblical counselors as well. But Jesus never prescribed forgiving yourself for your sins. It was Jesus who did the forgiving and admonished those He forgave to..."go and sin no more." (John 8:11)
You may "feel" that the only way you will be whole would be to forgive yourself. But there are some very important things to remember:
* In the concept of self forgiveness, you are actually placing yourself on the throne of judgment and have decided to be your own judge. But God is the only one who judges and the only one that forgives. You are actually placing yourself as sinner, judge and redeemer. And this can't be.
* If you have acknowledged your sin before God and if you have asked forgiveness of the one you have sinned against (if that is at all possible) then you must let it go. It is forgiven; Jesus paid the price once for all. You can't pay a debt that has already been paid. The blood of Jesus covered your sin.
o 1 John 1:7 "...the blood of Jesus Christ His Son cleanses us from all sin."
o Revelation 1:5 "...To Him [Jesus] who loved us and washed us from our sins in His own blood."
* If you still feel pain over your sin - rather than define it as a need to forgive yourself - think of it as regret and this is a totally normal response. Regret is sometimes mislabeled as not "feeling" forgiven. Regret can be a good emotion because it helps build humility and compassion in our hearts for others.
When feelings of pain or regret creep into your thinking, take the time to stop and think about God's forgiveness, that Jesus has stamped your debt of sin "paid in full". Then thank God for the blood of Jesus that made it all possible.
o Romans 8:1-2 "Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus, because through Christ Jesus the law of the Spirit of life set me free from the law of sin and death."
o Isaiah 43:25 " I, even I, am he who blots out your transgressions, for my own sake, and remembers your sin no more."
What a wonderful God we serve! He has done all the hard work and sacrifice and we just need to come to the place of truly understanding that Jesus is the one who paid the price to set me free! Halleluiah!
Mary Ann
Mary Ann Kiernan and John have been married for 36 years, have 2 grown/married sons and are the proud grandparents of three grandsons and finally... praise the Lord... a granddaughter! She serves at America's Keswick as a Biblical Counselor and the Intake Coordinator for the Colony of Mercy. Her life verse is Romans 8:28.
DIGGING DEEPER
James 4:14b
What is your life? For you are a mist that appears for a little time and then vanishes.
Wednesday, September 14, 2011
Set Free Through Forgiveness
There are two different types of prisons that we can find ourselves in. There is the obvious. The physical state of being locked behind iron bars when convicted of a crime through our court system. This is usually imposed on a person who has been convicted of a crime and sentenced to a certain amount of time behind locked doors. In this type of prison the key to freedom is held by another.
There is another prison, the one into which we ourselves have walked in the prison, closed the door and locked it... all the while holding the key to freedom in the palm of our hand. This is a place of pain, hurt, anger, bitterness ...this is the prison of unforgiveness. It's a most sorrowful place to be because it is of our own choosing. We hold the key to this prison and there are times that we refuse to let go and be set free.
Why would we do such a crazy thing? Why would we imprison ourselves? Other people may be responsible for the pain in our lives but we have the choice to imprison ourselves and allow the pain to continue and damage our present and future. The longer we stay there by choice the more it will affect not only the relationship with the one we refuse to forgive, but the collateral damage affects other relationships as well and ultimately builds a wall between us and our heavenly Father.
We struggle with and even avoid forgiveness because it's so difficult to do when we have been hurt so deeply. Without a doubt forgiveness is a superhuman undertaking apart from God. Yet we are called to do so.
Colossians 3:12-14
New Living Translation (NLT)
12 Since God chose you to be the holy people he loves, you must clothe yourselves with tenderhearted mercy, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience. 13 Make allowance for each other's faults, and forgive anyone who offends you. Remember, the Lord forgave you, so you must forgive others. 14 Above all, clothe yourselves with love, which binds us all together in perfect harmony.
Forgiving those that hurt us is not an option. We are called to "forgive anyone who offends [us]". I haven't found any loopholes in Scripture. There isn't a clause that states, "forgive all but the sin of ______ against you." You can fill in the blank. Scripture says we "must" forgive. The reason? "Remember, the Lord forgave you." Without Jesus paying our debt for sin on the cross we would not have a chance to be forgiven for our sin. He did all the work; He paid the price to set us free from the prison of hell for eternity.
It is only when we know Jesus as Lord and Savior of our lives, when we grasp the enormity of what He did for us that we can even entertain the idea of forgiving those who have sinned against us. Even then it is impossible to forgive in our strength or will. It is in the surrendered life to Jesus that we can forgive because it is Christ living in us Who gives us the strength and power to forgive others.
When we choose to forgive others we use the key that we have held so tightly to open the door of our prison and we are free! Free of the entangled roots of anger, bitterness and unforgiveness! No longer is there a wall between us and the Lord. It allows us to have a deeper more intimate relationship with the Lord AND others in our lives.
Is there someone you think you can't forgive? Go ahead make the choice to forgive, not through your strength or power but through Jesus Christ who is your power and strength. Set yourself free!
Mary Ann
Mary Ann Kiernan and John have been married for 36 years, have 2 grown/married sons and are the proud grandparents of three grandsons and finally... praise the Lord... a granddaughter! She serves at America's Keswick as a Biblical Counselor and the Intake Coordinator for the Colony of Mercy. Her life verse is Romans 8:28.
DIGGING DEEPER
James 4:14b
What is your life? For you are a mist that appears for a little time and then vanishes.
There is another prison, the one into which we ourselves have walked in the prison, closed the door and locked it... all the while holding the key to freedom in the palm of our hand. This is a place of pain, hurt, anger, bitterness ...this is the prison of unforgiveness. It's a most sorrowful place to be because it is of our own choosing. We hold the key to this prison and there are times that we refuse to let go and be set free.
Why would we do such a crazy thing? Why would we imprison ourselves? Other people may be responsible for the pain in our lives but we have the choice to imprison ourselves and allow the pain to continue and damage our present and future. The longer we stay there by choice the more it will affect not only the relationship with the one we refuse to forgive, but the collateral damage affects other relationships as well and ultimately builds a wall between us and our heavenly Father.
We struggle with and even avoid forgiveness because it's so difficult to do when we have been hurt so deeply. Without a doubt forgiveness is a superhuman undertaking apart from God. Yet we are called to do so.
Colossians 3:12-14
New Living Translation (NLT)
12 Since God chose you to be the holy people he loves, you must clothe yourselves with tenderhearted mercy, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience. 13 Make allowance for each other's faults, and forgive anyone who offends you. Remember, the Lord forgave you, so you must forgive others. 14 Above all, clothe yourselves with love, which binds us all together in perfect harmony.
Forgiving those that hurt us is not an option. We are called to "forgive anyone who offends [us]". I haven't found any loopholes in Scripture. There isn't a clause that states, "forgive all but the sin of ______ against you." You can fill in the blank. Scripture says we "must" forgive. The reason? "Remember, the Lord forgave you." Without Jesus paying our debt for sin on the cross we would not have a chance to be forgiven for our sin. He did all the work; He paid the price to set us free from the prison of hell for eternity.
It is only when we know Jesus as Lord and Savior of our lives, when we grasp the enormity of what He did for us that we can even entertain the idea of forgiving those who have sinned against us. Even then it is impossible to forgive in our strength or will. It is in the surrendered life to Jesus that we can forgive because it is Christ living in us Who gives us the strength and power to forgive others.
When we choose to forgive others we use the key that we have held so tightly to open the door of our prison and we are free! Free of the entangled roots of anger, bitterness and unforgiveness! No longer is there a wall between us and the Lord. It allows us to have a deeper more intimate relationship with the Lord AND others in our lives.
Is there someone you think you can't forgive? Go ahead make the choice to forgive, not through your strength or power but through Jesus Christ who is your power and strength. Set yourself free!
Mary Ann
Mary Ann Kiernan and John have been married for 36 years, have 2 grown/married sons and are the proud grandparents of three grandsons and finally... praise the Lord... a granddaughter! She serves at America's Keswick as a Biblical Counselor and the Intake Coordinator for the Colony of Mercy. Her life verse is Romans 8:28.
DIGGING DEEPER
James 4:14b
What is your life? For you are a mist that appears for a little time and then vanishes.
Tuesday, September 13, 2011
TO MOVE OR NOT TO MOVE
Should we move or shouldn't we? That was the question we asked ourselves recently. The decision was in regard to Hurricane Irene.
Our 'house', a 38 foot motor home had been parked on the campus of America's Keswick for more than two months.
We sent out an e-mail to our newsletter mailing list of about 200 addresses asking that they pray and we would receive clear directions. "GET OUT OF THERE. DRIVE, DRIVE, DRIVE" was the core of the messages we received back. But, but, but, we said back in response. We felt sluggish and slow in making a move, so we threw out another fleece besides the e-mail. If we were able to get a space at our favorite campground, we would pack up and leave. One call was all it took. We got a space easily even though availability on the weekends on very short notice was almost unheard of. So...we packed up and pulled out of Keswick in about an hour, with the plan to return the following Monday.
The wind continued to blow briskly in this area, and the rains came. I still wasn't sure we had done the right thing, especially when it took 4 hours to drive about 100 miles. The trip was very tiring, and I kept wondering, Is this trip really necessary?
The storm actually turned out to be milder than predicted. I kept thinking, Did we jump ahead of God? Maybe we shouldn't have come after all.
However, I finally got my official answer. A picture was posted on Facebook. The brown grass outlines our parking space at Keswick with a tree in our space! Thank You, Lord, for moving us out of the way of that falling tree.
Matt. 7:25 And the rain descended, and the floods came, and the winds blew, and beat upon that house; and it fell not: for it was founded upon a rock.
And that rock is JESUS CHRIST!
Has this trip been easy? NO! But has it been God-guided? Yes, oh my, yes!
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
James 4:14b
What is your life? For you are a mist that appears for a little time and then vanishes.
Our 'house', a 38 foot motor home had been parked on the campus of America's Keswick for more than two months.
We sent out an e-mail to our newsletter mailing list of about 200 addresses asking that they pray and we would receive clear directions. "GET OUT OF THERE. DRIVE, DRIVE, DRIVE" was the core of the messages we received back. But, but, but, we said back in response. We felt sluggish and slow in making a move, so we threw out another fleece besides the e-mail. If we were able to get a space at our favorite campground, we would pack up and leave. One call was all it took. We got a space easily even though availability on the weekends on very short notice was almost unheard of. So...we packed up and pulled out of Keswick in about an hour, with the plan to return the following Monday.
The wind continued to blow briskly in this area, and the rains came. I still wasn't sure we had done the right thing, especially when it took 4 hours to drive about 100 miles. The trip was very tiring, and I kept wondering, Is this trip really necessary?
The storm actually turned out to be milder than predicted. I kept thinking, Did we jump ahead of God? Maybe we shouldn't have come after all.
However, I finally got my official answer. A picture was posted on Facebook. The brown grass outlines our parking space at Keswick with a tree in our space! Thank You, Lord, for moving us out of the way of that falling tree.
Matt. 7:25 And the rain descended, and the floods came, and the winds blew, and beat upon that house; and it fell not: for it was founded upon a rock.
And that rock is JESUS CHRIST!
Has this trip been easy? NO! But has it been God-guided? Yes, oh my, yes!
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
James 4:14b
What is your life? For you are a mist that appears for a little time and then vanishes.
Monday, September 12, 2011
Digging Deeper James 4:14b with Commentary
People die. Sometimes children die. Each time it happens it reminds us of the transitory nature of life. In light of eternity, our life is a mist. Here one day and gone the next. Most days admittedly I live as if I'll live forever. Lots of time to share the gospel with that neighbor; lots of time to tell that loved one how much they mean to us; lots of time to stop that sin; lots of time to send that card of encouragement; lots of time to make things right with the brother offended and lots of time...
James 4:14b
What is your life? For you are a mist that appears for a little time and then vanishes.
Commentary:
"God alone knows the future...vapor (mist). This refers either to a puff of smoke or one's breath that appears for a moment in cold air. It emphasizes the transitory nature of life..." [The Mac Arthur Bible Commentary pg. 1895}
"These business people think they control events but fail to recognize God's providential control and the temporary nature of life, which is like a mist that can fade away at any moment. Planning and investing are not wrong, but arrogant self-confidence and boasting are." [ESV Study Bible study notes pg. 2397]
Blessings,
Diane
Diane Hunt is the Director of Addiction Recovery and 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 26 years. She has 2 children, 3 grandchildren, 3 step-children, and 7 step-grandchildren.
James 4:14b
What is your life? For you are a mist that appears for a little time and then vanishes.
Commentary:
"God alone knows the future...vapor (mist). This refers either to a puff of smoke or one's breath that appears for a moment in cold air. It emphasizes the transitory nature of life..." [The Mac Arthur Bible Commentary pg. 1895}
"These business people think they control events but fail to recognize God's providential control and the temporary nature of life, which is like a mist that can fade away at any moment. Planning and investing are not wrong, but arrogant self-confidence and boasting are." [ESV Study Bible study notes pg. 2397]
Blessings,
Diane
Diane Hunt is the Director of Addiction Recovery and 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 26 years. She has 2 children, 3 grandchildren, 3 step-children, and 7 step-grandchildren.
Friday, September 09, 2011
Digging Deeper James 4:13-14a Points to ponder
James 4:13-14a
Come now, you who say, "Today or tomorrow we will go into such and such a town and spend a year there and trade and make a profit"- yet you do not know what tomorrow will bring.
Points to Ponder
"yet you do not know what tomorrow will bring" - Over the years I have had to learn to hold my plans with a loose hand. So many times I have been disappointed because things did not go the way I wanted, the way I planned. This especially happens when you have small children - they tend to get sick at the most inopportune times.
When you make plans do you do so as if you get to decide what tomorrow brings or is there the foundational belief somewhere in the back of your mind that truly God is sovereign and that only He knows tomorrow, in fact he not only knows it He has purposed and determined it.
Nothing will happen tomorrow that will catch Him by surprise.
Nothing will happen tomorrow that will disappoint Him, because He already knows it.
Nothing will happen tomorrow that will thwart His will or plan.
Nothing will happen tomorrow that He has not ordained or allowed.
Nothing will happen tomorrow that He cannot redeem.
Nothing will happen tomorrow that He cannot take you through.
Nothing will happen tomorrow that is beyond His ability or desire to forgive.
Nothing will happen tomorrow that is too big for His grace.
Nothing will happen tomorrow that is beyond His control.
Nothing will happen tomorrow that is beyond the reaches of His love and mercy.
Nothing will happen tomorrow that will stump or confuse Him.
Nothing will happen tomorrow that He has not already woven into His plan, His purpose and His goal for your life.
You may not know what tomorrow will bring, but He does.
Blessings,
Diane
Diane Hunt is the Director of Addiction Recovery and 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 26 years. She has 2 children, 3 grandchildren, 3 step-children, and 7 step-grandchildren.
Come now, you who say, "Today or tomorrow we will go into such and such a town and spend a year there and trade and make a profit"- yet you do not know what tomorrow will bring.
Points to Ponder
"yet you do not know what tomorrow will bring" - Over the years I have had to learn to hold my plans with a loose hand. So many times I have been disappointed because things did not go the way I wanted, the way I planned. This especially happens when you have small children - they tend to get sick at the most inopportune times.
When you make plans do you do so as if you get to decide what tomorrow brings or is there the foundational belief somewhere in the back of your mind that truly God is sovereign and that only He knows tomorrow, in fact he not only knows it He has purposed and determined it.
Nothing will happen tomorrow that will catch Him by surprise.
Nothing will happen tomorrow that will disappoint Him, because He already knows it.
Nothing will happen tomorrow that will thwart His will or plan.
Nothing will happen tomorrow that He has not ordained or allowed.
Nothing will happen tomorrow that He cannot redeem.
Nothing will happen tomorrow that He cannot take you through.
Nothing will happen tomorrow that is beyond His ability or desire to forgive.
Nothing will happen tomorrow that is too big for His grace.
Nothing will happen tomorrow that is beyond His control.
Nothing will happen tomorrow that is beyond the reaches of His love and mercy.
Nothing will happen tomorrow that will stump or confuse Him.
Nothing will happen tomorrow that He has not already woven into His plan, His purpose and His goal for your life.
You may not know what tomorrow will bring, but He does.
Blessings,
Diane
Diane Hunt is the Director of Addiction Recovery and 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 26 years. She has 2 children, 3 grandchildren, 3 step-children, and 7 step-grandchildren.
Thursday, September 08, 2011
IT'S HARD TO SOAR LIKE AN EAGLE...
Years ago, when I was working in the Library, I had a little plaque on my desk that said, "It's hard to soar like an eagle when you work with turkeys." I don't know about you, but I knew exactly what that meant for me. I come to work in the morning: it's a gorgeous sunny day, my hair isn't in need of Static Guard to hold down that one annoying little hair that inevitably sticks straight up, I only have 4 or 5 phone calls to return and my email from the night before isn't 25 items (mostly forwarded jokes ) to go through. I sit at my desk and pause to say again, "Thanks, Lord, for a wonderful day. Use me in someone's life today."
And then - it would start -- innocently enough. I walked through the hallways, or someone would stop at my office door and make a comment. It's not necessarily made in anger - in fact more often, it's a little snide or off-handed remark about another staff member or perhaps about someone encountered in a customer service setting. Probably is wasn't meant to be critical or cruel, but all of a sudden it's like the sun stopped shining and my Static Guard has ceased to do its work. Whether consciously or not, the insidious critical attitude has reared its head, and I find myself pulled down to the turkey level, willing - often VERY willing - and able to jump right in with a comment or criticism of my own.
I have been challenged so many times in recent weeks about criticism and judgment. And, very often, while I can so EASILY identify harmful criticism in someone else, I seem able to overlook it (or call it something else) when I am guilty of it. In my Sunday School class, we have been taking a look at how we should be building up one another, using Gene Getz's book as a jumping off point. Unfortunately, as we work through the chapters, I find that I am able to see examples of critical or judgmental thoughts on my part, instead of generous, loving thoughts toward a sister in Christ. As if to say, what gives me the right to look at my Christian sister (or anyone else for that matter) and criticize her speech, manner of dress, spending habits, use of her time or any one of a host of other things I can think of.
When I look at the ease with which criticism - mine or anyone else's - comes, I am reminded that it all boils down to one thing - PRIDE. When I am critical or judgmental, it is because I think I have the corner on the truth, whatever I perceive that truth may be. My pride puffs me up and says, "You are better than she is at [fill in your own blank]." How am I exhibiting love for my sister in the Lord when I tear her down to build up myself? The answer is - I'm not.
So every time I am tempted to be drawn into or pulled down by criticism, I have to challenge myself to remember that as I profess to be seeking the "mind of Christ" in my life, I must be willing to be made humble as Jesus was in order to serve (Philippians 2:5-8). The only "turkey" in this picture is me!
My prayer is that God will enable me, through His indwellling Spirit, to be an eagle for someone today and help me to be the reason someone is encouraged and not beaten down.
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
James 4:13-14a
Come now, you who say, "Today or tomorrow we will go into such and such a town and spend a year there and trade and make a profit"- yet you do not know what tomorrow will bring.
And then - it would start -- innocently enough. I walked through the hallways, or someone would stop at my office door and make a comment. It's not necessarily made in anger - in fact more often, it's a little snide or off-handed remark about another staff member or perhaps about someone encountered in a customer service setting. Probably is wasn't meant to be critical or cruel, but all of a sudden it's like the sun stopped shining and my Static Guard has ceased to do its work. Whether consciously or not, the insidious critical attitude has reared its head, and I find myself pulled down to the turkey level, willing - often VERY willing - and able to jump right in with a comment or criticism of my own.
I have been challenged so many times in recent weeks about criticism and judgment. And, very often, while I can so EASILY identify harmful criticism in someone else, I seem able to overlook it (or call it something else) when I am guilty of it. In my Sunday School class, we have been taking a look at how we should be building up one another, using Gene Getz's book as a jumping off point. Unfortunately, as we work through the chapters, I find that I am able to see examples of critical or judgmental thoughts on my part, instead of generous, loving thoughts toward a sister in Christ. As if to say, what gives me the right to look at my Christian sister (or anyone else for that matter) and criticize her speech, manner of dress, spending habits, use of her time or any one of a host of other things I can think of.
When I look at the ease with which criticism - mine or anyone else's - comes, I am reminded that it all boils down to one thing - PRIDE. When I am critical or judgmental, it is because I think I have the corner on the truth, whatever I perceive that truth may be. My pride puffs me up and says, "You are better than she is at [fill in your own blank]." How am I exhibiting love for my sister in the Lord when I tear her down to build up myself? The answer is - I'm not.
So every time I am tempted to be drawn into or pulled down by criticism, I have to challenge myself to remember that as I profess to be seeking the "mind of Christ" in my life, I must be willing to be made humble as Jesus was in order to serve (Philippians 2:5-8). The only "turkey" in this picture is me!
My prayer is that God will enable me, through His indwellling Spirit, to be an eagle for someone today and help me to be the reason someone is encouraged and not beaten down.
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
James 4:13-14a
Come now, you who say, "Today or tomorrow we will go into such and such a town and spend a year there and trade and make a profit"- yet you do not know what tomorrow will bring.
Wednesday, September 07, 2011
He Restoreth My Soul
Recently I have been reading a very old book by Phillip Keller titled A Shepherd Looks at Psalm 23. It has been very interesting reading through this book with a copyright date of 1970. Although over 40 years old, it is filled with simple truth and, no matter how old the book is, the material within its pages is relevant.
Phillip Keller was a shepherd so he shares great insight into this old familiar and for many, favorite psalm. However, there was one chapter that particularly touched and challenged my heart. Let me share it with you. It was Chapter Five, "He Restoreth My Soul".
Surely we have all been in a place from time to time when our soul was in need of restoration. During times of frustration, temptation, that feeling of hopelessness we might just cry out to God as David did in Psalm 42, "Why art thou cast down, O my soul? And why art thou disquieted within me? Hope thou in God....." Mr. Keller explains what a "cast" sheep is.
"When a lamb is 'cast' it is lying on its back, its feet are in the air, it flays away frantically and struggles to stand up, but it cannot. The lamb might bleat for help, but generally it lies there lashing about in frightened frustration. If the shepherd does not come and right the lamb, he will soon die. Therefore a Good Shepherd keeps a close eye on His sheep. He counts them often to be sure they are all accounted for. But it is the shepherd who keeps a close watch, so do buzzards, vultures, dogs, coyotes and cougars. They too know a cast sheep is easy prey. Interestingly he relates that even the largest, fattest, strongest and sometimes healthiest sheep can become 'cast' and become a casualty."
Here is how it happens. "A heavy, fat, or long-fleeced sheep will lie down comfortably in some little hollow or depression in the ground. It may roll on its side slightly to stretch out or relax. Suddenly the center of gravity in the body shifts so that it turns on its back far enough that the feet no longer touch the ground. It may feel a sense of panic and start to paw frantically. Frequently this only makes things worse. It rolls over even further. Now it is quite impossible for it to regain its feet."
There are times in my life when I am feeling rather hopeless or frustrated. Instead of releasing my soul and my anxiety to my Good Shepherd and seeking His help, I might lay down and zone out or take matters in my own hands and try to "fix" whatever is wrong. I might even think I simply can't take this to my heavenly Father again. He must be so sick of my same old dilemma. But no, Jesus, our Good Shepherd knows us full well. He says cast your anxiety upon me, I care for you(1 Peter 5:7). The tenderness, the love, the patience of Jesus is throughout the scripture. Let us not be like the lamb that looks for the comfortable, familiar, soft ground. Let us not allow ourselves to get "fat" and cling on to the things of this world so that we cannot stand. Let us cling onto our Good Shepherd. Let Him pick us up, clean us up so that we are not so "heavy" any more. Let us move to those green pastures He directs us to. Let us receive His direction and discipline. It will produce a life of knowing how to cast our frustration and hopelessness upon the one who can restore our soul.
Let me encourage you......
"The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want.
He maketh me to lie down in green pastures:?He leadeth me beside the still waters.
He restoreth my soul: He leadeth me in the?paths of righteousness for His name's sake.
Yea, though I walk through the valley of the?shadow of death; I will fear no evil: for thou?art with me; thy rod and thy staff they?comfort me.
Thou preparest a table before me in the?presence of mine enemies: thou anointest?my head with oil; my cup runneth over.
Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all?the days of my life; and I will dwell in the?house of the Lord for ever.
Psalm 23
Patricia L. Wenzel
WOC Graduate
DIGGING DEEPER
James 4:13-14a
Come now, you who say, "Today or tomorrow we will go into such and such a town and spend a year there and trade and make a profit"- yet you do not know what tomorrow will bring.
Phillip Keller was a shepherd so he shares great insight into this old familiar and for many, favorite psalm. However, there was one chapter that particularly touched and challenged my heart. Let me share it with you. It was Chapter Five, "He Restoreth My Soul".
Surely we have all been in a place from time to time when our soul was in need of restoration. During times of frustration, temptation, that feeling of hopelessness we might just cry out to God as David did in Psalm 42, "Why art thou cast down, O my soul? And why art thou disquieted within me? Hope thou in God....." Mr. Keller explains what a "cast" sheep is.
"When a lamb is 'cast' it is lying on its back, its feet are in the air, it flays away frantically and struggles to stand up, but it cannot. The lamb might bleat for help, but generally it lies there lashing about in frightened frustration. If the shepherd does not come and right the lamb, he will soon die. Therefore a Good Shepherd keeps a close eye on His sheep. He counts them often to be sure they are all accounted for. But it is the shepherd who keeps a close watch, so do buzzards, vultures, dogs, coyotes and cougars. They too know a cast sheep is easy prey. Interestingly he relates that even the largest, fattest, strongest and sometimes healthiest sheep can become 'cast' and become a casualty."
Here is how it happens. "A heavy, fat, or long-fleeced sheep will lie down comfortably in some little hollow or depression in the ground. It may roll on its side slightly to stretch out or relax. Suddenly the center of gravity in the body shifts so that it turns on its back far enough that the feet no longer touch the ground. It may feel a sense of panic and start to paw frantically. Frequently this only makes things worse. It rolls over even further. Now it is quite impossible for it to regain its feet."
There are times in my life when I am feeling rather hopeless or frustrated. Instead of releasing my soul and my anxiety to my Good Shepherd and seeking His help, I might lay down and zone out or take matters in my own hands and try to "fix" whatever is wrong. I might even think I simply can't take this to my heavenly Father again. He must be so sick of my same old dilemma. But no, Jesus, our Good Shepherd knows us full well. He says cast your anxiety upon me, I care for you(1 Peter 5:7). The tenderness, the love, the patience of Jesus is throughout the scripture. Let us not be like the lamb that looks for the comfortable, familiar, soft ground. Let us not allow ourselves to get "fat" and cling on to the things of this world so that we cannot stand. Let us cling onto our Good Shepherd. Let Him pick us up, clean us up so that we are not so "heavy" any more. Let us move to those green pastures He directs us to. Let us receive His direction and discipline. It will produce a life of knowing how to cast our frustration and hopelessness upon the one who can restore our soul.
Let me encourage you......
"The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want.
He maketh me to lie down in green pastures:?He leadeth me beside the still waters.
He restoreth my soul: He leadeth me in the?paths of righteousness for His name's sake.
Yea, though I walk through the valley of the?shadow of death; I will fear no evil: for thou?art with me; thy rod and thy staff they?comfort me.
Thou preparest a table before me in the?presence of mine enemies: thou anointest?my head with oil; my cup runneth over.
Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all?the days of my life; and I will dwell in the?house of the Lord for ever.
Psalm 23
Patricia L. Wenzel
WOC Graduate
DIGGING DEEPER
James 4:13-14a
Come now, you who say, "Today or tomorrow we will go into such and such a town and spend a year there and trade and make a profit"- yet you do not know what tomorrow will bring.
Tuesday, September 06, 2011
"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
James 4:13-14a
Come now, you who say, "Today or tomorrow we will go into such and such a town and spend a year there and trade and make a profit"- yet you do not know what tomorrow will bring.
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
James 4:13-14a
Come now, you who say, "Today or tomorrow we will go into such and such a town and spend a year there and trade and make a profit"- yet you do not know what tomorrow will bring.
Monday, September 05, 2011
Digging Deeper James 4:13-14a
The last 2 weeks have been very interesting. First, on August 23rd during our Administration meeting, the building started to roll like waves in an ocean as an earthquake rocked the Northeast. Second, last weekend Hurricane Irene threatened life and limb, but ended up effecting mostly limbs, tree limbs. I was without power for just about 40 hours, I found candlelight an adventure (but I was the only one in my home that thought so). Keswick had only partial power until Wednesday afternoon. Did that storm put a monkey wrench in our plans? Yes. We had to delay the start of the Young at Heart Conference a day. We cancelled the afternoon concert. The men from the Colony of Mercy carried mattress and pillows up to the Activity Center and slept on the floors. I'm sure that was not their plan.
We have all had well-laid plans disrupted much to our disappointment.
James 4:13-14a
Come now, you who say, "Today or tomorrow we will go into such and such a town and spend a year there and trade and make a profit"- yet you do not know what tomorrow will bring.
Commentary:
"James does not condemn wise business planning, but rather planning that leaves out God. The people so depicted are practical atheists, living their lives and making their plans as if God did not exist. Such conduct is inconsistent with genuine saving faith, which submits to God...James exposes the presumptuous folly of the practical atheist he condemned in verse 13-those who do not know what the future holds for them..God alone knows the future..."[The MacArthur Bible Commentary by John MacArthur pg. 1895]
Diane Hunt is the Director of Addiction Recovery and 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 26 years. She has 2 children, 3 grandchildren, 3 step-children, and 7 step-grandchildren.
We have all had well-laid plans disrupted much to our disappointment.
James 4:13-14a
Come now, you who say, "Today or tomorrow we will go into such and such a town and spend a year there and trade and make a profit"- yet you do not know what tomorrow will bring.
Commentary:
"James does not condemn wise business planning, but rather planning that leaves out God. The people so depicted are practical atheists, living their lives and making their plans as if God did not exist. Such conduct is inconsistent with genuine saving faith, which submits to God...James exposes the presumptuous folly of the practical atheist he condemned in verse 13-those who do not know what the future holds for them..God alone knows the future..."[The MacArthur Bible Commentary by John MacArthur pg. 1895]
Diane Hunt is the Director of Addiction Recovery and 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 26 years. She has 2 children, 3 grandchildren, 3 step-children, and 7 step-grandchildren.
Friday, September 02, 2011
Digging Deeper
James 4:11-12
Do not speak evil against one another, brothers. The one who speaks against a brother or judges his brother, speaks evil against the law and judges the law. But if you judge the law, you are not a doer of the law but a judge. There is only one lawgiver and judge, he who is able to save and to destroy. But who are you to judge your neighbor?
Points to Ponder
Do not speak evil against one another... We could stop right there. I think there are two basic ways we can do this. 1) we can speak evil against another to their face or 2) we can speak evil against another behind their backs. It seems the root of either is pride. When we speak evil against another the unspoken premise is "I know best." We become critical and judgmental and essentially sin against a brother or sister in Christ.
My boss shared an illustration with me one day which I think portrays the poison of evil speaking or gossip.
Take a feather pillow and make a slit in it. Then squeeze it and swing it around your head. What happens? Feathers start to fly EVERYWHERE. Add to the mix a leaf blower and the feathers spread far and wide. If someone were to try to pick all those feathers up they would never get every single one. Evil speaking and gossip work much the same way. They spread like feathers in the wind.
Now consider this. What if the evil speaking and gossip was about you? Would you want your brothers and sisters in Christ to squelch it or pass it along?
I think in general we need to be much more mindful of what comes out of our mouths. Psalm 17:3 I have purposed that my mouth will not transgress.
Have you been as convicted as I have about your tongue? Let us think before we speak.
Blessings,
Diane
Diane Hunt is the Director of Addiction Recovery and 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 26 years. She has 2 children, 3 grandchildren, 3 step-children, and 7 step-grandchildren.
Do not speak evil against one another, brothers. The one who speaks against a brother or judges his brother, speaks evil against the law and judges the law. But if you judge the law, you are not a doer of the law but a judge. There is only one lawgiver and judge, he who is able to save and to destroy. But who are you to judge your neighbor?
Points to Ponder
Do not speak evil against one another... We could stop right there. I think there are two basic ways we can do this. 1) we can speak evil against another to their face or 2) we can speak evil against another behind their backs. It seems the root of either is pride. When we speak evil against another the unspoken premise is "I know best." We become critical and judgmental and essentially sin against a brother or sister in Christ.
My boss shared an illustration with me one day which I think portrays the poison of evil speaking or gossip.
Take a feather pillow and make a slit in it. Then squeeze it and swing it around your head. What happens? Feathers start to fly EVERYWHERE. Add to the mix a leaf blower and the feathers spread far and wide. If someone were to try to pick all those feathers up they would never get every single one. Evil speaking and gossip work much the same way. They spread like feathers in the wind.
Now consider this. What if the evil speaking and gossip was about you? Would you want your brothers and sisters in Christ to squelch it or pass it along?
I think in general we need to be much more mindful of what comes out of our mouths. Psalm 17:3 I have purposed that my mouth will not transgress.
Have you been as convicted as I have about your tongue? Let us think before we speak.
Blessings,
Diane
Diane Hunt is the Director of Addiction Recovery and 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 26 years. She has 2 children, 3 grandchildren, 3 step-children, and 7 step-grandchildren.
Thursday, September 01, 2011
Daddy used to say...
"Sweetheart, as long as daddy's here, you never have to worry." And in some ways that was true. However, as good as my earthly father's intentions and promises were, they certainly fell short of my heavenly Father's.
I don't know about you, but from time to time I do find myself worried, anxious and fearful. Recently, I've been praying about it, and studying and praying and studying....I've certainly prayed more than once since I've known the Lord for peace. "Oh Lord give me peace." But I've stopped doing that. I'm learning many things, one of which is that I've been praying for something God's already given me. Isn't that crazy? That just doesn't make sense.
It reminded me of a homeless man I saw at a mall. When I saw him I thought, "Oh, look at that poor, homeless man. If only..." Then my friend told me that he knew who he was and he had plenty of resources, income, and help available to him. He just wouldn't avail himself of those resources.
So I asked myself the question, why aren't I availing myself of ALL the wonderful resources God has ALREADY given me? In the area of peace, I'd have to say I truly didn't grasp the truth that I already do have it. But I do now, praise the Lord! And if you're His, you have it to!
Peace I leave with you; My [own] peace I now give and bequeath to you. Not as the world gives do I give to you. Do not let your hearts be troubled, neither let them be afraid. [Stop allowing yourselves to be agitated and disturbed; and do not permit yourselves to be fearful and intimidated and cowardly and unsettled.] John 14:27 (AMP)
Dina Seaton
Marketing Assistant, Staff Writer
America's Keswick offers Transformation Resouces on various topics including Worry. Please visit our website for more information www.americaskeswick.org
DIGGING DEEPER
James 4:11-12
Do not speak evil against one another, brothers. The one who speaks against a brother, or judges his brother speaks evil against the law and judges the law. But if you judge the law, you are not a doer of the law but a judge. There is only one lawgiver and judge, he who is able to save and to destroy. But who are you to judge your neighbor?
I don't know about you, but from time to time I do find myself worried, anxious and fearful. Recently, I've been praying about it, and studying and praying and studying....I've certainly prayed more than once since I've known the Lord for peace. "Oh Lord give me peace." But I've stopped doing that. I'm learning many things, one of which is that I've been praying for something God's already given me. Isn't that crazy? That just doesn't make sense.
It reminded me of a homeless man I saw at a mall. When I saw him I thought, "Oh, look at that poor, homeless man. If only..." Then my friend told me that he knew who he was and he had plenty of resources, income, and help available to him. He just wouldn't avail himself of those resources.
So I asked myself the question, why aren't I availing myself of ALL the wonderful resources God has ALREADY given me? In the area of peace, I'd have to say I truly didn't grasp the truth that I already do have it. But I do now, praise the Lord! And if you're His, you have it to!
Peace I leave with you; My [own] peace I now give and bequeath to you. Not as the world gives do I give to you. Do not let your hearts be troubled, neither let them be afraid. [Stop allowing yourselves to be agitated and disturbed; and do not permit yourselves to be fearful and intimidated and cowardly and unsettled.] John 14:27 (AMP)
Dina Seaton
Marketing Assistant, Staff Writer
America's Keswick offers Transformation Resouces on various topics including Worry. Please visit our website for more information www.americaskeswick.org
DIGGING DEEPER
James 4:11-12
Do not speak evil against one another, brothers. The one who speaks against a brother, or judges his brother speaks evil against the law and judges the law. But if you judge the law, you are not a doer of the law but a judge. There is only one lawgiver and judge, he who is able to save and to destroy. But who are you to judge your neighbor?
Wednesday, August 31, 2011
A Supernatural Response
"Count it all joy, my brothers, when you meet trials of various kinds," (James 1:2)
OK, so I can hear you saying... are you kidding me? Joy? Rejoice? You mean Be Happy? It is a tough one for sure; God is calling us to put on a supernatural response rather than our human response to suffering and trials. We are talking about a response that is only imbedded in us through connection with the Holy Spirit. It is a choice we need to make and make most likely on a daily basis.
In my last two Victory Calls I talked about why God allows trials and keeping the fact that God is at work foremost in our minds is what sets the foundation for us to be able to "count it all joy". I can be joyful that:
1. God is Sovereign
2. God has infinite Wisdom
3. God is perfect in Love.
So, how can you daily commit to "being joyful"?
First, we must hold on to the Word of God. "Trouble and anguish have found me out, but your commandments are my delight" (Ps. 119:143).
Next we must remind ourselves and hold on to His promises. I mean hold on - don't let go. Hold on like you would a life jacket if you couldn't swim. Our trials have the capacity to sink us without our firm grasp on God's promises. Talk to yourself; recall to mind the promises on a regular basis - some find it very helpful to write them all over - post them wherever your eyes may go.
We are also called to be thankful in everything (Phil. 4:3-9). There is much merit in the idea of remaining positive and keeping a positive thankful heart. When we dwell in thankfulness it is difficult to stay in the pit. By staying thankful we refuse to give in to bitterness, anger and despair which only seek to destroy. Remember what Paul said... "I can do all things through Christ who gives me strength" (Phil. 4:13).
In doing these things we are choosing to believe in God and wait on Him for answers, direction and help. (Isaiah 40:31, Ps. 40:1-3, Ps. 37:7, Romans 8:19-25) His Word tells us that He will answer and He will speak. Listen and wait and He will lift you up. "God whispers to us in our pleasures, speaks in our conscious, shouts in our pain." (C.S. Lewis in the Problem of Pain)
Finally Hope in the Future. Ray Pritchard states that we must make up our mind to go on with life. He formulated a principle he calls the First Law of Spiritual Progress. It states: I can't go back, I can't stay here, I must go forward. Why do we go forward? Because what lies ahead is where God is leading us. It reminds me of a childhood song... "Onward Christian Soldiers". We move forward into battle, we move forward to where God is leading. Ultimately, we are moving forward because we know that what lies ahead is FAR BETTER (Phil. 1).
"Blessed by the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! According to his great mercy, he has caused us to be born again to a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, to an inheritance that is imperishable, undefiled, and unfading, kept in heaven for you" (1 Peter 1:3-4).
My next victory call will be about that which we look forward to - HEAVEN! (Revelation 21:1-5)
Till then rest in the words of that great HYMN "Amazing Grace".
Through many dangers, toils and snares,
I have already come.
'Tis grace has brought me safe thus far,
And grace will lead me home.
Lynne Jahns
Christian Counselor
Director, KESWICK Institute of Biblical Studies
DIGGING DEEPER
James 4:11-12
Do not speak evil against one another, brothers. The one who speaks against a brother, or judges his brother speaks evil against the law and judges the law. But if you judge the law, you are not a doer of the law but a judge. There is only one lawgiver and judge, he who is able to save and to destroy. But who are you to judge your neighbor?
OK, so I can hear you saying... are you kidding me? Joy? Rejoice? You mean Be Happy? It is a tough one for sure; God is calling us to put on a supernatural response rather than our human response to suffering and trials. We are talking about a response that is only imbedded in us through connection with the Holy Spirit. It is a choice we need to make and make most likely on a daily basis.
In my last two Victory Calls I talked about why God allows trials and keeping the fact that God is at work foremost in our minds is what sets the foundation for us to be able to "count it all joy". I can be joyful that:
1. God is Sovereign
2. God has infinite Wisdom
3. God is perfect in Love.
So, how can you daily commit to "being joyful"?
First, we must hold on to the Word of God. "Trouble and anguish have found me out, but your commandments are my delight" (Ps. 119:143).
Next we must remind ourselves and hold on to His promises. I mean hold on - don't let go. Hold on like you would a life jacket if you couldn't swim. Our trials have the capacity to sink us without our firm grasp on God's promises. Talk to yourself; recall to mind the promises on a regular basis - some find it very helpful to write them all over - post them wherever your eyes may go.
We are also called to be thankful in everything (Phil. 4:3-9). There is much merit in the idea of remaining positive and keeping a positive thankful heart. When we dwell in thankfulness it is difficult to stay in the pit. By staying thankful we refuse to give in to bitterness, anger and despair which only seek to destroy. Remember what Paul said... "I can do all things through Christ who gives me strength" (Phil. 4:13).
In doing these things we are choosing to believe in God and wait on Him for answers, direction and help. (Isaiah 40:31, Ps. 40:1-3, Ps. 37:7, Romans 8:19-25) His Word tells us that He will answer and He will speak. Listen and wait and He will lift you up. "God whispers to us in our pleasures, speaks in our conscious, shouts in our pain." (C.S. Lewis in the Problem of Pain)
Finally Hope in the Future. Ray Pritchard states that we must make up our mind to go on with life. He formulated a principle he calls the First Law of Spiritual Progress. It states: I can't go back, I can't stay here, I must go forward. Why do we go forward? Because what lies ahead is where God is leading us. It reminds me of a childhood song... "Onward Christian Soldiers". We move forward into battle, we move forward to where God is leading. Ultimately, we are moving forward because we know that what lies ahead is FAR BETTER (Phil. 1).
"Blessed by the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! According to his great mercy, he has caused us to be born again to a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, to an inheritance that is imperishable, undefiled, and unfading, kept in heaven for you" (1 Peter 1:3-4).
My next victory call will be about that which we look forward to - HEAVEN! (Revelation 21:1-5)
Till then rest in the words of that great HYMN "Amazing Grace".
Through many dangers, toils and snares,
I have already come.
'Tis grace has brought me safe thus far,
And grace will lead me home.
Lynne Jahns
Christian Counselor
Director, KESWICK Institute of Biblical Studies
DIGGING DEEPER
James 4:11-12
Do not speak evil against one another, brothers. The one who speaks against a brother, or judges his brother speaks evil against the law and judges the law. But if you judge the law, you are not a doer of the law but a judge. There is only one lawgiver and judge, he who is able to save and to destroy. But who are you to judge your neighbor?
Tuesday, August 30, 2011
Watch with Me
As we've gone through the summer conference season, there have been several of our speakers who have taught on prayer. One of the ones that stands out most in my mine is a brief message by Dr. George Murray. He directed our thoughts to Jesus' time of prayer in the Garden of Gethsemane before His arrest, trial and crucifixion.
And He came to the disciples and found them sleeping, and said to Peter, "So, you men could not keep watch with Me for one hour? Matthew 26:40 (NASB)
Dr. Murray focused on the last six words of Jesus' question to His disciples and made 3 observations on prayer. First, we must pray. It's not an option. God wants and expects us to pray. The Scriptures are full of commands to pray.
pray for those who spitefully use you and persecute you, (Matt. 5:44)
Watch and pray, lest you enter into temptation (Matt. 26:41)
bless those who curse you, and pray for those who spitefully use you. (Luke 6:28)
therefore pray the Lord of the harvest to send out laborers into His harvest (Luke 10:2)
The second point, and the one that really hit me the most, comes from the next two words: with Me. Jesus prays with us. He invites us to pray with Him as He brings our needs before His Father.
Therefore He is also able to save to the uttermost those who come to God through Him, since He always lives to make intercession for them (Hebrews 7:25).
He makes intercession for us, as He prayed for His disciples (and us) while He was here on earth.
I pray for them. I do not pray for the world but for those whom You have given Me, for they are Yours (John 17:9 - read the whole chapter!).
Third, prayer takes time ... keep watch with me for one hour. Now, if you're like me, praying for an hour sounds intimidating. I run through my list and am done in five minutes and then wonder what to do with the other 55. I'm not saying an hour is some magical time frame, but prayer does take time. We wouldn't rush through a conversation with our best friend, yet we rush through prayer as though it is something to "get done" and check off our list. Probably a better concept, rather than a time, is what Paul says in 1 Thessalonians 5:17 (NKJV) "pray without ceasing." We should always be in a mindset of prayer. Every thought, need, concern, praise, etc., should be taken to God in prayer. Anytime, anywhere, we can, and should pray.
Dr. Murray shared a great concept that comes from Ecclesiastes 8:2-3a, "I say, 'Keep the king's commandment for the sake of your oath to God. Do not be hasty to go from his presence.'" Now, these verses do not directly relate to prayer, but think about this. If you were invited to visit Queen Elizabeth, would you be checking your watch and in a hurry to leave? Of course not! What a rare honor it would be to be invited into the presence of a queen. Yet we're invited into the presence of the King any time we want, and we rush in and out as fast as we can, as if there are more important things to do.
I think that illustration impacted me most. How quick I am to say what I need to say and rush off to the next thing. Let us not be hasty to go from HIS presence!
Pray because we must. Remember He prays with and for us. And spend some time in prayer.
Ruth
Ruth Schmidt is on full-time staff at America's Keswick, and grateful to be a daughter of the King.
DIGGING DEEPER
James 4:11-12
Do not speak evil against one another, brothers. The one who speaks against a brother, or judges his brother speaks evil against the law and judges the law. But if you judge the law, you are not a doer of the law but a judge. There is only one lawgiver and judge, he who is able to save and to destroy. But who are you to judge your neighbor?
And He came to the disciples and found them sleeping, and said to Peter, "So, you men could not keep watch with Me for one hour? Matthew 26:40 (NASB)
Dr. Murray focused on the last six words of Jesus' question to His disciples and made 3 observations on prayer. First, we must pray. It's not an option. God wants and expects us to pray. The Scriptures are full of commands to pray.
pray for those who spitefully use you and persecute you, (Matt. 5:44)
Watch and pray, lest you enter into temptation (Matt. 26:41)
bless those who curse you, and pray for those who spitefully use you. (Luke 6:28)
therefore pray the Lord of the harvest to send out laborers into His harvest (Luke 10:2)
The second point, and the one that really hit me the most, comes from the next two words: with Me. Jesus prays with us. He invites us to pray with Him as He brings our needs before His Father.
Therefore He is also able to save to the uttermost those who come to God through Him, since He always lives to make intercession for them (Hebrews 7:25).
He makes intercession for us, as He prayed for His disciples (and us) while He was here on earth.
I pray for them. I do not pray for the world but for those whom You have given Me, for they are Yours (John 17:9 - read the whole chapter!).
Third, prayer takes time ... keep watch with me for one hour. Now, if you're like me, praying for an hour sounds intimidating. I run through my list and am done in five minutes and then wonder what to do with the other 55. I'm not saying an hour is some magical time frame, but prayer does take time. We wouldn't rush through a conversation with our best friend, yet we rush through prayer as though it is something to "get done" and check off our list. Probably a better concept, rather than a time, is what Paul says in 1 Thessalonians 5:17 (NKJV) "pray without ceasing." We should always be in a mindset of prayer. Every thought, need, concern, praise, etc., should be taken to God in prayer. Anytime, anywhere, we can, and should pray.
Dr. Murray shared a great concept that comes from Ecclesiastes 8:2-3a, "I say, 'Keep the king's commandment for the sake of your oath to God. Do not be hasty to go from his presence.'" Now, these verses do not directly relate to prayer, but think about this. If you were invited to visit Queen Elizabeth, would you be checking your watch and in a hurry to leave? Of course not! What a rare honor it would be to be invited into the presence of a queen. Yet we're invited into the presence of the King any time we want, and we rush in and out as fast as we can, as if there are more important things to do.
I think that illustration impacted me most. How quick I am to say what I need to say and rush off to the next thing. Let us not be hasty to go from HIS presence!
Pray because we must. Remember He prays with and for us. And spend some time in prayer.
Ruth
Ruth Schmidt is on full-time staff at America's Keswick, and grateful to be a daughter of the King.
DIGGING DEEPER
James 4:11-12
Do not speak evil against one another, brothers. The one who speaks against a brother, or judges his brother speaks evil against the law and judges the law. But if you judge the law, you are not a doer of the law but a judge. There is only one lawgiver and judge, he who is able to save and to destroy. But who are you to judge your neighbor?
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