There are two things I am constantly misplacing or forgetting. First are my keys and second is my cell phone. I am sure that I keep my neighbors quite amused. I live on a dead-end street and by time I get to the corner each morning, without fail, I have forgotten something. Obviously, not my keys if I am at the corner! But many times I end up backing down the street to retrieve my phone. It usually takes me no time at all to realize that I am not connected. Today, however, I got all the way to work without my phone. There was no going back so I am spending my day "disconnected." No emails, no calls, no texts.
I have to ask myself, "Do I miss being 'disconnected' from Jesus as quickly as I do my cell phone?" If I get a nudge from the Holy Spirit do I answer the call or do I ignore it? Yet the beeps, kurplunks and chimes of our cell phones get immediate attention. How much time can go by before I really miss connecting with God and hearing from Him?
How easy it is to be connected to the wrong things. Not that cell phones are bad or wrong but when do we cross a line to stay connected to technology while we forfeit what we need most? We have all heard about how we need to keep plugged into the source, which is the Father, Son and Holy Spirit. The old part of that is we forget what an electrical line looks like. One end is securely in place while the wire stretches out to the other end with a plug that has two or three prongs that fit into another source. (We remember these plugs when the computer isn't working, don't we?) It is still the same today. Regardless of how wireless we have become we must stay connected to the Source of our power. We know this to be true but do we miss being connected when we have moved away from the Source as quickly as we have moved away from our phones? Few of us can be anywhere and not make or receive a call. Yet we get into places where God's voice is muffled and sometimes barely audible. Do we miss hearing Him as much as we miss hearing from all our other contacts?
"Abide in Me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit of itself, unless it abides in the vine, neither can you, unless you abide in Me" (John 15:4).
Kathy Withers
Kathy's on staff at America's KESWICK in the Development Department. Kathy has been married to her husband Dave for 26 years. They have two adult children. Kathy is active in her local church and has previously served as a Teaching Director for Community Bible Study. Her passion is to encourage women to deepen their walk with Jesus Christ by finding and living out the truths of God's Word.
Tuesday, January 24, 2012
Monday, January 23, 2012
Resolve to be Like Christ
"And I will put My Spirit within you, and cause you to walk in My statutes and ye shall keep my judgments, and do them" (Ezekiel 36: 27).
Entering into the New Year I begin to take into account of certain goals I like to achieve this year. I must set aim and become resolute to carry out my goals. Of course I like them to be simple to achieve. I realize realistically I need help to accomplish the goals I decide to obtain. I mull over and question myself, am I doing everything I need to maintain my health? I have to start an exercise plan that is simple to attain, and then work my way to maintain my workout. This leads me to realize my eating habits are not good: no more cookies with my tea or potato chips in the afternoon and stop picking up a Hershey bar every day. I have picked the Hershey with almonds and have convinced myself it's healthy, humbug. I have to remember to take my vitamins, to ensure my body has the proper nutrients to be healthy.
However, I start to analyze what really takes precedence is my spiritual health. I ought to be praying more and take time to listen to the Father as I pray. My Father will lead me and guide me into the best path. "For such is God, Our God forever and ever; He will guide us until death" (Psalm 48:14).
As I memorize scripture my mind is being challenged and renewed spiritually. "And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what the will of God is, that which is good and acceptable and perfect" (Romans 12:2).
My heart must be exercised and guarded from evil. "With all my heart I have sought Thee; Do not let me wander from Thy commandments. Thy word I have treasured in my heart that I may not sin against thee" (Psalm 119:10-11).
I need to become skilled at and resolve to be Christ-like, acquaint myself by reading the Bible on a more intimate level. "Make my joy complete by being of the same mind, maintaining the same love, united in spirit, intent on one purpose. Do nothing from selfishness or empty conceit, but with humility of mind let each of you regard one another as more important than himself; do not merely look out for your own personal interests, but also for the interest of others" (Philippians 2:2-4).
As I walk with My Lord, I can be confident He will help me to achieve the goals, My God wants me to accomplish. "As you therefore have received Christ Jesus the Lord, so walk in Him" (Colossians 2:6).
Glory to God!
Sandra Roman
Staff Member - WOC Graduate
Entering into the New Year I begin to take into account of certain goals I like to achieve this year. I must set aim and become resolute to carry out my goals. Of course I like them to be simple to achieve. I realize realistically I need help to accomplish the goals I decide to obtain. I mull over and question myself, am I doing everything I need to maintain my health? I have to start an exercise plan that is simple to attain, and then work my way to maintain my workout. This leads me to realize my eating habits are not good: no more cookies with my tea or potato chips in the afternoon and stop picking up a Hershey bar every day. I have picked the Hershey with almonds and have convinced myself it's healthy, humbug. I have to remember to take my vitamins, to ensure my body has the proper nutrients to be healthy.
However, I start to analyze what really takes precedence is my spiritual health. I ought to be praying more and take time to listen to the Father as I pray. My Father will lead me and guide me into the best path. "For such is God, Our God forever and ever; He will guide us until death" (Psalm 48:14).
As I memorize scripture my mind is being challenged and renewed spiritually. "And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what the will of God is, that which is good and acceptable and perfect" (Romans 12:2).
My heart must be exercised and guarded from evil. "With all my heart I have sought Thee; Do not let me wander from Thy commandments. Thy word I have treasured in my heart that I may not sin against thee" (Psalm 119:10-11).
I need to become skilled at and resolve to be Christ-like, acquaint myself by reading the Bible on a more intimate level. "Make my joy complete by being of the same mind, maintaining the same love, united in spirit, intent on one purpose. Do nothing from selfishness or empty conceit, but with humility of mind let each of you regard one another as more important than himself; do not merely look out for your own personal interests, but also for the interest of others" (Philippians 2:2-4).
As I walk with My Lord, I can be confident He will help me to achieve the goals, My God wants me to accomplish. "As you therefore have received Christ Jesus the Lord, so walk in Him" (Colossians 2:6).
Glory to God!
Sandra Roman
Staff Member - WOC Graduate
Friday, January 20, 2012
First Things First
"Seek first the Kingdom of God..." Matt 6:33
OK, so I'll join the others that hit on the idea that this is a new year - will it also be a new you? Most of us contemplate resolutions; most of us never keep them. I am convinced this year that there is only one resolution that we as Christians should make or consider. That is the resolution to make First things First, or put simply to put our Faith development first and foremost in our lives. If you do that, then scripture promises that everything else will fall into place.
"Trust in the Lord with all your heart ...in all your ways acknowledge him, and HE will direct your path" Proverbs 3:5-6. Simply stated again - it is time to surrender to His will and His ways. If we do that - all the puzzle pieces of our life will fit together. Remember God's plans for us are good, not harmful (Jeremiah 29:11).
Why do we as Christians struggle so with this? If you went to any 12-step group - do you know what the first thing they tell you that you must do? Surrender to God... Now, I'm not going to get into a discussion about what God they are really about, but the point is that they know we need to put something in first place besides ourselves. As Christians we know what that TRUE something is: GOD. Stephen Artherburn and David Stoop collaborated on a book on the keys to spiritual renewal.
Key number #1 - SURRENDER.
What is surrender? Webster defines it this way: "to yield to the power, control, or possession of another...; to give oneself over to something (an influence)." We surrender each day. We yield to peer pressure, temptation, the opinions of others, etc... Surrender like that does not lead to renewal - it leads to destruction and defeat. Godly surrender or putting Him first in our life, seeking His will before our will, getting ourselves and others off the throne and putting God on the throne - that is the surrender we need to resolve to this year in our lives.
2 Peter 1:3-4 tells us what our lives can be like when we resolve to make Him first. "His divine power has given us everything we need for life and godliness through our knowledge of him who called us by his own glory and goodness. Through these he has given us his very great and precious promises, so that through them you may participate in the divine nature and escape the corruption in the world caused by evil desires."
Are you ready this year to escape the world and live in His promises? Then surrender your will and put Him first. Everything I read and have experienced tells me that if we do... then 2012 will be the year that exceeds our plans and expectations.
Lynne Jahns
Christian Counselor
OK, so I'll join the others that hit on the idea that this is a new year - will it also be a new you? Most of us contemplate resolutions; most of us never keep them. I am convinced this year that there is only one resolution that we as Christians should make or consider. That is the resolution to make First things First, or put simply to put our Faith development first and foremost in our lives. If you do that, then scripture promises that everything else will fall into place.
"Trust in the Lord with all your heart ...in all your ways acknowledge him, and HE will direct your path" Proverbs 3:5-6. Simply stated again - it is time to surrender to His will and His ways. If we do that - all the puzzle pieces of our life will fit together. Remember God's plans for us are good, not harmful (Jeremiah 29:11).
Why do we as Christians struggle so with this? If you went to any 12-step group - do you know what the first thing they tell you that you must do? Surrender to God... Now, I'm not going to get into a discussion about what God they are really about, but the point is that they know we need to put something in first place besides ourselves. As Christians we know what that TRUE something is: GOD. Stephen Artherburn and David Stoop collaborated on a book on the keys to spiritual renewal.
Key number #1 - SURRENDER.
What is surrender? Webster defines it this way: "to yield to the power, control, or possession of another...; to give oneself over to something (an influence)." We surrender each day. We yield to peer pressure, temptation, the opinions of others, etc... Surrender like that does not lead to renewal - it leads to destruction and defeat. Godly surrender or putting Him first in our life, seeking His will before our will, getting ourselves and others off the throne and putting God on the throne - that is the surrender we need to resolve to this year in our lives.
2 Peter 1:3-4 tells us what our lives can be like when we resolve to make Him first. "His divine power has given us everything we need for life and godliness through our knowledge of him who called us by his own glory and goodness. Through these he has given us his very great and precious promises, so that through them you may participate in the divine nature and escape the corruption in the world caused by evil desires."
Are you ready this year to escape the world and live in His promises? Then surrender your will and put Him first. Everything I read and have experienced tells me that if we do... then 2012 will be the year that exceeds our plans and expectations.
Lynne Jahns
Christian Counselor
Thursday, January 19, 2012
Dream Big, Live Small
I've been reading a book lately that encourages the reader to dream big. To ask God for and pray for things that only He can accomplish in our lives. And I've seen God do big things in my life in recent days, but right now I can't really think of anything big to pray for.
So I just opened up a blog that I frequently read and the writer was talking about her New Year's resolutions. She usually makes big, grand ones - like saving the world. But this year she felt God was telling her to think small, and that just didn't seem fun, or challenging - boring, really. Until she realized that what is planted small, and fed and watered and nurtured day by day, can grow into something big, something wonderful, something God-sized.
It reminded me of the verse, And he said to him, 'Well done, good servant; because you were faithful in a very little, have authority over ten cities' (Luke 19:17). God requires us to be faithful in the small things before we can do big things. And very often, it's the accumulation of the small, daily things that end up being something big.
And now, Israel, what does the LORD your God require of you, but to fear the LORD your God, to walk in all His ways and to love Him, to serve the LORD your God with all your heart and with all your soul, (Deut. 10:12).
He has shown you, O man, what is good; And what does the LORD require of you But to do justly, To love mercy, And to walk humbly with your God? (Micah 6:8)
Sometimes God does ask big things of us. And sometimes He takes our big dreams and makes them become realities. But sometimes all He asks of us is that we be faithful in the everyday, the small, the routine, the boring.
So until He gives me another big dream, I want to be faithful in what He has given me to do today.
Ruth
Ruth Schmidt is on full-time staff at America's Keswick, and grateful to be a daughter of the King.
So I just opened up a blog that I frequently read and the writer was talking about her New Year's resolutions. She usually makes big, grand ones - like saving the world. But this year she felt God was telling her to think small, and that just didn't seem fun, or challenging - boring, really. Until she realized that what is planted small, and fed and watered and nurtured day by day, can grow into something big, something wonderful, something God-sized.
It reminded me of the verse, And he said to him, 'Well done, good servant; because you were faithful in a very little, have authority over ten cities' (Luke 19:17). God requires us to be faithful in the small things before we can do big things. And very often, it's the accumulation of the small, daily things that end up being something big.
And now, Israel, what does the LORD your God require of you, but to fear the LORD your God, to walk in all His ways and to love Him, to serve the LORD your God with all your heart and with all your soul, (Deut. 10:12).
He has shown you, O man, what is good; And what does the LORD require of you But to do justly, To love mercy, And to walk humbly with your God? (Micah 6:8)
Sometimes God does ask big things of us. And sometimes He takes our big dreams and makes them become realities. But sometimes all He asks of us is that we be faithful in the everyday, the small, the routine, the boring.
So until He gives me another big dream, I want to be faithful in what He has given me to do today.
Ruth
Ruth Schmidt is on full-time staff at America's Keswick, and grateful to be a daughter of the King.
Wednesday, January 18, 2012
Tarry a Moment
Lord, my prayer this morning as I opened Your word was, "Lord, prepare my heart to spend time with You as I tarry a moment with You."
As soon as I said it I realized the foolishness of that prayer - how can I tarry a moment? It sounds so contradictory; to tarry takes more than a moment.
Isn't that what characterizes my morning times? A moment! So often, I take but a moment, a brief time to read a chapter or two before I'm racing off to the next thing.
Tarry sounds so wonderful, so spiritual, as I envision Mary sitting at Your feet soaking in Your every word - basking in Your presence. But honestly, that does not describe my mornings with You.
How about you? Do you tarry with the Lord during your times with Him? How can we say we love the Lord if we are so quick to move on to the next thing? If we have a friend or spouse that gives us a moment here and a moment there, quickly moving on to their busy lives, we would wonder how genuine their love for us is. Am I right?
Lord, I pray that I would want, even yearn, to tarry in Your presence - morning by morning and that I would be compelled to action to make it so.
Blessings,
Diane
As soon as I said it I realized the foolishness of that prayer - how can I tarry a moment? It sounds so contradictory; to tarry takes more than a moment.
Isn't that what characterizes my morning times? A moment! So often, I take but a moment, a brief time to read a chapter or two before I'm racing off to the next thing.
Tarry sounds so wonderful, so spiritual, as I envision Mary sitting at Your feet soaking in Your every word - basking in Your presence. But honestly, that does not describe my mornings with You.
How about you? Do you tarry with the Lord during your times with Him? How can we say we love the Lord if we are so quick to move on to the next thing? If we have a friend or spouse that gives us a moment here and a moment there, quickly moving on to their busy lives, we would wonder how genuine their love for us is. Am I right?
Lord, I pray that I would want, even yearn, to tarry in Your presence - morning by morning and that I would be compelled to action to make it so.
Blessings,
Diane
Tuesday, January 17, 2012
Love or Obey?
Recently, I was part of a group discussion and in the course of it, this question was asked?
"What are the most important four letters in the Bible?"
Like me, your first thought probably went right to L-O-V-E. I dare say, it wouldn't be a stretch to assume that most, if not all, would come to that same conclusion. However, the answer given was not L-O-V-E; rather, in their thinking the correct response was O-B-E-Y.
When I heard this I had an instant reaction: Huh? What? I didn't understand at all. Some discussion followed where there was some attempt at persuading the individual to see love as the most important thing. And, in turn, there was an effort and turning our thinking away from love being the most important word.
Without a doubt, we ought to know and understand that obedience is critical in the life of every believer. But the question is, why obey? Apart from love what is obedience? What value is there in keeping the law without love as the driving force?
"Though I speak with the tongues of men and of angels, but have not love, I have become sounding brass or a clanging cymbal. And though I have the gift of prophecy, and understand all mysteries and all knowledge, and though I have all faith, so that I could remove mountains, but have not love, I am nothing. And though I bestow all my goods to feed the poor, and though I give my body to be burned, but have not love, it profits me nothing.
Love suffers long and is kind; love does not envy; love does not parade itself, is not puffed up; does not behave rudely, does not seek its own, is not provoked, thinks no evil; does not rejoice in iniquity, but rejoices in the truth; bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things. Love never fails...and now abides faith, hope, love, these three; but the greatest of these is love." ~1 Corinthians 13:1-8;13
Without love: tongues, prophecy, faith, giving to the poor, giving one's body to be burned...it all fails. That must include obedience. For what is obedience; what is any of it without love?! Love spurs us on! Love compels us to want to obey our Creator, God and King!!
The morning after said discussion, I was on my way to work when the Apostle Paul came to mind. Here we have an excellent example of obedience as the primary thing. Paul so zealously obeyed the law that he went to great lengths to persecute Christians. Not until he met the Lord Jesus on the Damacus road was it revealed that he really didn't love God. He loved the Law.
It wasn't until his encounter with the One who is L-O-V-E personified, the One who is the reason to O-B-E-Y, that Paul motivated by LOVE Himself began to walk in true obedience out of a deep, abiding relationship with the Savior of his soul. Love which cost him his very life!
Selah
Stephanie
Stephanie Paul, wife and mother of two grown children. An "instrument of change" in the Redeemer's Hand, in the lives of wounded and hurting women. Currently serving as a part of the Addiction Recovery Team at America's Keswick as Woman of Character Program Administrator.
"What are the most important four letters in the Bible?"
Like me, your first thought probably went right to L-O-V-E. I dare say, it wouldn't be a stretch to assume that most, if not all, would come to that same conclusion. However, the answer given was not L-O-V-E; rather, in their thinking the correct response was O-B-E-Y.
When I heard this I had an instant reaction: Huh? What? I didn't understand at all. Some discussion followed where there was some attempt at persuading the individual to see love as the most important thing. And, in turn, there was an effort and turning our thinking away from love being the most important word.
Without a doubt, we ought to know and understand that obedience is critical in the life of every believer. But the question is, why obey? Apart from love what is obedience? What value is there in keeping the law without love as the driving force?
"Though I speak with the tongues of men and of angels, but have not love, I have become sounding brass or a clanging cymbal. And though I have the gift of prophecy, and understand all mysteries and all knowledge, and though I have all faith, so that I could remove mountains, but have not love, I am nothing. And though I bestow all my goods to feed the poor, and though I give my body to be burned, but have not love, it profits me nothing.
Love suffers long and is kind; love does not envy; love does not parade itself, is not puffed up; does not behave rudely, does not seek its own, is not provoked, thinks no evil; does not rejoice in iniquity, but rejoices in the truth; bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things. Love never fails...and now abides faith, hope, love, these three; but the greatest of these is love." ~1 Corinthians 13:1-8;13
Without love: tongues, prophecy, faith, giving to the poor, giving one's body to be burned...it all fails. That must include obedience. For what is obedience; what is any of it without love?! Love spurs us on! Love compels us to want to obey our Creator, God and King!!
The morning after said discussion, I was on my way to work when the Apostle Paul came to mind. Here we have an excellent example of obedience as the primary thing. Paul so zealously obeyed the law that he went to great lengths to persecute Christians. Not until he met the Lord Jesus on the Damacus road was it revealed that he really didn't love God. He loved the Law.
It wasn't until his encounter with the One who is L-O-V-E personified, the One who is the reason to O-B-E-Y, that Paul motivated by LOVE Himself began to walk in true obedience out of a deep, abiding relationship with the Savior of his soul. Love which cost him his very life!
Selah
Stephanie
Stephanie Paul, wife and mother of two grown children. An "instrument of change" in the Redeemer's Hand, in the lives of wounded and hurting women. Currently serving as a part of the Addiction Recovery Team at America's Keswick as Woman of Character Program Administrator.
Monday, January 16, 2012
Covenant of Peace
Isaiah 54:10 "For the mountains may depart and the hills be removed, but my steadfast love shall not depart from you, and my covenant of peace shall not be removed," says the LORD, who has compassion on you.
As I was reading Isaiah and came across this verse, I asked myself, "What is His covenant of peace?" A little investigating drew me to Ezekiel 34:25-31. "I will make with them a covenant of peace and banish wild beasts from the land, so that they may dwell securely in the wilderness and sleep in the woods. And I will make them and the places all around my hill a blessing, and I will send down the showers in their season; they shall be showers of blessing. And the trees of the field shall yield their fruit, and the earth shall yield its increase, and they shall be secure in their land. And they shall know that I am the LORD, when I break the bars of their yoke, and deliver them from the hand of those who enslaved them. They shall no more be a prey to the nations, nor shall the beasts of the land devour them. They shall dwell securely, and none shall make them afraid. And I will provide for them renowned plantations so that they shall no more be consumed with hunger in the land, and no longer suffer the reproach of the nations. And they shall know that I am the LORD their God with them, and that they, the house of Israel, are my people, declares the Lord GOD. And you are my sheep, human sheep of my pasture, and I am your God," declares the Lord GOD.
God promises peace to His children, His covenant of peace. With that promise comes security, blessing, belonging, freedom, protection, provision, satisfaction, acceptance, and peace. His promise. His peace.
In these times it is tempting to fret and worry about just about anything. But how would we stand apart from our unsaved neighbors if we fret and worry about the future? God promises that even if the mountains depart and hills are removed (such as we have seen with recent hurricanes, earthquakes and Tsunamis) HIS STEADFAST LOVE AND HIS COVENANT OF PEACE SHALL NOT BE REMOVED-NO MATTER WHAT.
You have HIS peace. Take God at His word. By faith, believe.
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. Cross references:
A. Ezekiel 34:25 : Ezekiel 37:26; Isa 54:10
B. Ezekiel 34:25 : Lev 26:6; Hos 2:18; Isa 35:9; Isa 11:6-9
C. Ezekiel 34:25 : Ezekiel 38:8, 14; 39:26
D. Ezekiel 34:26 : Gen 12:2; Isa 19:24; Zech 8:13
E. Ezekiel 34:26 : Lev 26:4; Ezekiel 22:24
F. Ezekiel 34:26 : Mal 3:10
G. Ezekiel 34:27 : Ezekiel 36:30; Lev 26:4
H. Ezekiel 34:27 : Ezekiel 34:25
I. Ezekiel 34:27 : Ezekiel 6:7
J. Ezekiel 34:27 : Jer 30:8
K. Ezekiel 34:28 : Ezekiel 34:22
L. Ezekiel 34:28 : Ezekiel 34:25
M. Ezekiel 34:28 : Ezekiel 34:25
N. Ezekiel 34:29 : Isa 60:21; 61:3
O. Ezekiel 34:29 : Ezekiel 36:29
P. Ezekiel 34:29 : Ezekiel 32:24
Q. Ezekiel 34:30 : Ezekiel 34:24
R. Ezekiel 34:31 : Psalm 74:1; 100:3; John 10:16
Cross references:
A. Isaiah 54:10 : Num 25:12; Ezek 34:25; 37:26; Mal 2:5
As I was reading Isaiah and came across this verse, I asked myself, "What is His covenant of peace?" A little investigating drew me to Ezekiel 34:25-31. "I will make with them a covenant of peace and banish wild beasts from the land, so that they may dwell securely in the wilderness and sleep in the woods. And I will make them and the places all around my hill a blessing, and I will send down the showers in their season; they shall be showers of blessing. And the trees of the field shall yield their fruit, and the earth shall yield its increase, and they shall be secure in their land. And they shall know that I am the LORD, when I break the bars of their yoke, and deliver them from the hand of those who enslaved them. They shall no more be a prey to the nations, nor shall the beasts of the land devour them. They shall dwell securely, and none shall make them afraid. And I will provide for them renowned plantations so that they shall no more be consumed with hunger in the land, and no longer suffer the reproach of the nations. And they shall know that I am the LORD their God with them, and that they, the house of Israel, are my people, declares the Lord GOD. And you are my sheep, human sheep of my pasture, and I am your God," declares the Lord GOD.
God promises peace to His children, His covenant of peace. With that promise comes security, blessing, belonging, freedom, protection, provision, satisfaction, acceptance, and peace. His promise. His peace.
In these times it is tempting to fret and worry about just about anything. But how would we stand apart from our unsaved neighbors if we fret and worry about the future? God promises that even if the mountains depart and hills are removed (such as we have seen with recent hurricanes, earthquakes and Tsunamis) HIS STEADFAST LOVE AND HIS COVENANT OF PEACE SHALL NOT BE REMOVED-NO MATTER WHAT.
You have HIS peace. Take God at His word. By faith, believe.
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. Cross references:
A. Ezekiel 34:25 : Ezekiel 37:26; Isa 54:10
B. Ezekiel 34:25 : Lev 26:6; Hos 2:18; Isa 35:9; Isa 11:6-9
C. Ezekiel 34:25 : Ezekiel 38:8, 14; 39:26
D. Ezekiel 34:26 : Gen 12:2; Isa 19:24; Zech 8:13
E. Ezekiel 34:26 : Lev 26:4; Ezekiel 22:24
F. Ezekiel 34:26 : Mal 3:10
G. Ezekiel 34:27 : Ezekiel 36:30; Lev 26:4
H. Ezekiel 34:27 : Ezekiel 34:25
I. Ezekiel 34:27 : Ezekiel 6:7
J. Ezekiel 34:27 : Jer 30:8
K. Ezekiel 34:28 : Ezekiel 34:22
L. Ezekiel 34:28 : Ezekiel 34:25
M. Ezekiel 34:28 : Ezekiel 34:25
N. Ezekiel 34:29 : Isa 60:21; 61:3
O. Ezekiel 34:29 : Ezekiel 36:29
P. Ezekiel 34:29 : Ezekiel 32:24
Q. Ezekiel 34:30 : Ezekiel 34:24
R. Ezekiel 34:31 : Psalm 74:1; 100:3; John 10:16
Cross references:
A. Isaiah 54:10 : Num 25:12; Ezek 34:25; 37:26; Mal 2:5
Friday, January 13, 2012
Reminders
Recently I was privileged to graduate another wife from the Woman of Character program. Four months had passed since she walked into the Women's Ministry building fully aware that she was in need of help and change.
All credit for this work of grace goes to Abba Father who faithfully worked in her a greater desire to be in His Word and to be a godly wife, a woman of character for the pleasure and glory of her Heavenly Husband!
A few of the things she shared which were very important reminders for her are also vital for the rest of us. Therefore, I decided to share them with you in this Victory Call. This is the reason we take time to write the VC in the first place: to encourage you to live in visible victory before the face of God.
Here are the truths she shared:
* "t is impossible for anyone to save himself. We are all saved by grace, through our faith in Jesus Christ.
* God desires that we rely on Him more than we rely on any other person or thing in our life.
* God keeps His promises, every single one.
* I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me - Philippians 4:13.
* The solution to addiction is not a method but rather a Savior.
* What comes out of our mouths is a reflection of the issues of our heart.
* God's anger is just and right, whereas, mine is not.
* Faith begins with the belief that my loving, heavenly Father is in control.
* A lifestyle that is truly free is one where we submit to Christ in every aspect of our lives.
* Anything we look to for comfort, love, or well-being other than Christ, draws us away from the one, true lover of our soul."1
Dear sisters, may you be reminded today of these simply truths, may I encourage you to also seek Him, who is the Lover of your soul! Seek His face only today as you continue to walk by faith and not by sight!
Stephanie
Stephanie Paul, wife and mother of two grown children. An "instrument of change" in the Redeemer's Hand, in the lives of wounded and hurting women. Currently serving as a part of the Addiction Recovery Team at America's Keswick as Woman of Character Program Administrator.
1 RA Hurst
All credit for this work of grace goes to Abba Father who faithfully worked in her a greater desire to be in His Word and to be a godly wife, a woman of character for the pleasure and glory of her Heavenly Husband!
A few of the things she shared which were very important reminders for her are also vital for the rest of us. Therefore, I decided to share them with you in this Victory Call. This is the reason we take time to write the VC in the first place: to encourage you to live in visible victory before the face of God.
Here are the truths she shared:
* "t is impossible for anyone to save himself. We are all saved by grace, through our faith in Jesus Christ.
* God desires that we rely on Him more than we rely on any other person or thing in our life.
* God keeps His promises, every single one.
* I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me - Philippians 4:13.
* The solution to addiction is not a method but rather a Savior.
* What comes out of our mouths is a reflection of the issues of our heart.
* God's anger is just and right, whereas, mine is not.
* Faith begins with the belief that my loving, heavenly Father is in control.
* A lifestyle that is truly free is one where we submit to Christ in every aspect of our lives.
* Anything we look to for comfort, love, or well-being other than Christ, draws us away from the one, true lover of our soul."1
Dear sisters, may you be reminded today of these simply truths, may I encourage you to also seek Him, who is the Lover of your soul! Seek His face only today as you continue to walk by faith and not by sight!
Stephanie
Stephanie Paul, wife and mother of two grown children. An "instrument of change" in the Redeemer's Hand, in the lives of wounded and hurting women. Currently serving as a part of the Addiction Recovery Team at America's Keswick as Woman of Character Program Administrator.
1 RA Hurst
Thursday, January 12, 2012
Resolve to be Like Christ
"And I will put My Spirit within you, and cause you to walk in My statutes and ye shall keep my judgments, and do them" Ezekiel 36: 27.
Entering into the New Year I begin to take into account on certain goals I like to achieve this year. I must set aim, become resolute to carry out my goals. Of course, I like them to be simple to achieve. I realize realistically I need help to accomplish the goals I decide to obtain. I mull over and question myself am I doing everything I need to maintain myself healthy. I have to start an exercise plan that is simple to attain, and then work my way to maintain my workout. This leads me to realize my eating habits are not good; no more cookies with my tea or potato chips in the afternoon; stop picking up a Hershey every day. I have picked the Hershey with almonds and have convinced myself it's healthy, humbug. I have to remember to take my vitamins, to ensure my body has the proper nutrients to be healthy.
However, I start to analyze what really takes precedence is my spiritual health. I ought to be praying more and take time to listen to the Father as I pray. My Father will lead me and guide me into the best path. "For such is God, Our God forever and ever; He will guide us until death" Psalms 48:14.
As I memorize scripture my mind is being challenged and renewed spiritually. "And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what the will of God is, that which is good and acceptable and perfect" Romans 12:2. My heart must be exercised and guarded from evil. "With all my heart I have sought Thee; Do not let me wander from Thy commandments. Thy word I have treasured in my heart, That I may not sin against thee" Psalm 119:10-11. I need to become skilled at and resolve to be Christ-like, acquaint myself by reading the Bible on a more intimate level. "Make my joy complete by being of the same mind, maintaining the same love, united in spirit, intent on one purpose. Do nothing from selfishness or empty conceit, but with humility of mind let each of you, regard one another as more important than himself, do not merely look out for your own personal interests, but also for the interest of others" Philippians 2: 2-4.
As I walk with My Lord, I can be confident He will help me to achieve the goals, My God wants me to accomplish. "As you therefore have received Christ Jesus the Lord, so walk in Him" Colossians 2:6.
Glory to God!
Sandra Roman
Staff Member - WOC Graduate
Entering into the New Year I begin to take into account on certain goals I like to achieve this year. I must set aim, become resolute to carry out my goals. Of course, I like them to be simple to achieve. I realize realistically I need help to accomplish the goals I decide to obtain. I mull over and question myself am I doing everything I need to maintain myself healthy. I have to start an exercise plan that is simple to attain, and then work my way to maintain my workout. This leads me to realize my eating habits are not good; no more cookies with my tea or potato chips in the afternoon; stop picking up a Hershey every day. I have picked the Hershey with almonds and have convinced myself it's healthy, humbug. I have to remember to take my vitamins, to ensure my body has the proper nutrients to be healthy.
However, I start to analyze what really takes precedence is my spiritual health. I ought to be praying more and take time to listen to the Father as I pray. My Father will lead me and guide me into the best path. "For such is God, Our God forever and ever; He will guide us until death" Psalms 48:14.
As I memorize scripture my mind is being challenged and renewed spiritually. "And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what the will of God is, that which is good and acceptable and perfect" Romans 12:2. My heart must be exercised and guarded from evil. "With all my heart I have sought Thee; Do not let me wander from Thy commandments. Thy word I have treasured in my heart, That I may not sin against thee" Psalm 119:10-11. I need to become skilled at and resolve to be Christ-like, acquaint myself by reading the Bible on a more intimate level. "Make my joy complete by being of the same mind, maintaining the same love, united in spirit, intent on one purpose. Do nothing from selfishness or empty conceit, but with humility of mind let each of you, regard one another as more important than himself, do not merely look out for your own personal interests, but also for the interest of others" Philippians 2: 2-4.
As I walk with My Lord, I can be confident He will help me to achieve the goals, My God wants me to accomplish. "As you therefore have received Christ Jesus the Lord, so walk in Him" Colossians 2:6.
Glory to God!
Sandra Roman
Staff Member - WOC Graduate
Wednesday, January 11, 2012
Signs...The City...and Some things to Think About...
Ah...the city...arts and culture, a diversity of ethnicities, quaint shops and markets, trendy hotels, a place where old, run-down warehouses can become much coveted prime spaces to live. After, of course, they've been completely renovated, except for the original brick walls, updated with stainless steel appliances, granite counter tops, brushed nickel fixtures, wood floors throughout, or maybe bamboo, since everyone is "going green" right now. Don't get me started! I'm all for conservation but when I read bumper stickers that say things like: "THE EARTH DOESN'T BELONG TO US...WE BELONG TO THE EARTH," well...I get a little nuts! The truth is the earth and everything in it belongs to God.
To the LORD your God belong the heavens, even the highest heavens, the earth and everything in it. Deuteronomy 10:14 (NIV)
But that's another conversation; let's get back to the city...
Just like any city there's usually areas such as I just described, and areas much less affluent. One day, while strolling from one to the other, I passed a home that had a sign on its front porch that read: "IF YOU DON'T LIVE HERE-YOU DON'T SIT HERE." Apparently, there are people who would have no problem cozying up on someone else's porch swing. It's not the safest place to live, although I've been in much worse. In fact, it reminded me of the area I grew up in. Where I was raised, you were taught to live life on the defense. Lock your door behind you, always lock your car door, beware of strangers, and look for the angle. Suspicion can be very exhausting. We didn't grow up with the philosophy that a stranger is just someone you haven't met yet. We grew up with the philosophy of: "Do not talk to strangers, beware of them and be ready." As I said, exhausting! I believe there needs to be a balance.
Another sign I saw read this: "TO THE PERSON WHO STOLE MY BIKE, I HOPE YOU ENJOY IT...NEXT TIME YOU COME BACK MY DOG WILL EAT YOU!" I can't help but wonder, where was this dog when the bike got stolen? Hmmm...maybe he or she was on a break from its "watch" so to speak. I mean come on...with all the rights we've bestowed on our four-legged friends they must take breaks, no? Did you know you could actually go to jail for abuse of an animal? YOU CAN! Don't get me wrong, I love most dogs and I believe if you have a pet you should take care of it.
A righteous man cares for the needs of his animal, but the kindest acts of the wicked are cruel.
Proverbs 12:10 (NIV)
But since there are people who abuse their children running around free as a bird...can we capture them first and maybe just fine the animal haters or something? If I wanted to "adopt" a dog I'd actually have to allow a home visit. I'm sorry but that is hysterical. I brought home my newborn baby and no one even asked me if I had a home never mind visited it!
Some things to think about...better yet, and much more effective... pray about.
Dina Seaton
Marketing Assistant, Staff Writer
To the LORD your God belong the heavens, even the highest heavens, the earth and everything in it. Deuteronomy 10:14 (NIV)
But that's another conversation; let's get back to the city...
Just like any city there's usually areas such as I just described, and areas much less affluent. One day, while strolling from one to the other, I passed a home that had a sign on its front porch that read: "IF YOU DON'T LIVE HERE-YOU DON'T SIT HERE." Apparently, there are people who would have no problem cozying up on someone else's porch swing. It's not the safest place to live, although I've been in much worse. In fact, it reminded me of the area I grew up in. Where I was raised, you were taught to live life on the defense. Lock your door behind you, always lock your car door, beware of strangers, and look for the angle. Suspicion can be very exhausting. We didn't grow up with the philosophy that a stranger is just someone you haven't met yet. We grew up with the philosophy of: "Do not talk to strangers, beware of them and be ready." As I said, exhausting! I believe there needs to be a balance.
Another sign I saw read this: "TO THE PERSON WHO STOLE MY BIKE, I HOPE YOU ENJOY IT...NEXT TIME YOU COME BACK MY DOG WILL EAT YOU!" I can't help but wonder, where was this dog when the bike got stolen? Hmmm...maybe he or she was on a break from its "watch" so to speak. I mean come on...with all the rights we've bestowed on our four-legged friends they must take breaks, no? Did you know you could actually go to jail for abuse of an animal? YOU CAN! Don't get me wrong, I love most dogs and I believe if you have a pet you should take care of it.
A righteous man cares for the needs of his animal, but the kindest acts of the wicked are cruel.
Proverbs 12:10 (NIV)
But since there are people who abuse their children running around free as a bird...can we capture them first and maybe just fine the animal haters or something? If I wanted to "adopt" a dog I'd actually have to allow a home visit. I'm sorry but that is hysterical. I brought home my newborn baby and no one even asked me if I had a home never mind visited it!
Some things to think about...better yet, and much more effective... pray about.
Dina Seaton
Marketing Assistant, Staff Writer
Tuesday, January 10, 2012
Looking Like What We Are Not
Isaiah 63:19
We have become like those over whom you have never ruled, like those who are not called by your name.
Footnotes:
a. Isaiah 63:3 Or their juice; also verse 6
b. Isaiah 63:4 Or the year of my redeemed
c. Isaiah 63:9 Or he did not afflict
d. Isaiah 63:11 Or Then his people remembered the days of old, of Moses
e. Isaiah 63:15 Or holy and glorious
f. Isaiah 63:18 Or They have dispossessed your holy people for a little while
Cross references:
A. Isaiah 63:1 : Isaiah 34:6
B. Isaiah 63:1 : Psalm 68:7
C. Isaiah 63:2 : Rev 19:13
D. Isaiah 63:2 : Lam 1:15; Rev 14:20; 19:15
E. Isaiah 63:3 : Joel 3:13
F. Isaiah 63:3 : Isaiah 59:16
G. Isaiah 63:4 : Isaiah 34:8
H. Isaiah 63:5 : Isaiah 59:16
I. Isaiah 63:6 : Isaiah 49:26
J. Isaiah 63:7 : Psalm 145:7
K. Isaiah 63:9 : Judg 10:16
L. Isaiah 63:9 : Deut 7:7, 8; Ezek 16:5, 6
M. Isaiah 63:9 : Deut 32:10-12
N. Isaiah 63:10 : Exodus 15:24; Num 14:11; Psalm 78:17, 56; 95:9; Ezek 20:8
O. Isaiah 63:10 : Psalm 78:40; Acts 7:51; Eph 4:30
P. Isaiah 63:11 : Psalm 77:11-20
Q. Isaiah 63:11 : Exodus 14:19-22
R. Isaiah 63:12 : Exodus 14:21; Josh 3:16
S. Isaiah 63:12 : 2 Sam 7:23; Neh 9:10
T. Isaiah 63:14 : Num 10:33
U. Isaiah 63:14 : Isaiah 63:12
V. Isaiah 63:15 : Deut 26:15
W. Isaiah 63:15 : Psalm 33:14
X. Isaiah 63:15 : Isaiah 59:17; Zech 1:14
Y. Isaiah 63:16 : Isaiah 64:8; Deut 32:6
Z. Isaiah 63:16 : Isaiah 43:14
AA. Isaiah 63:17 : Isaiah 6:10; John 12:40
BB. Isaiah 63:17 : Psalm 90:13
CC. Isaiah 63:18 : Deut 4:25, 26
DD. Isaiah 63:18 : Isaiah 64:11
EE. Isaiah 63:19 : Jer 14:8
Have you ever had occasion to ask yourself, "Do I look, act, respond or think any differently than my unsaved neighbor? What evidence is there that I am a Christ-follower?"
Certainly there are times where we look no different and therefore begs the question, "What difference does it make that I know Jesus Christ?" When we are living like our unsaved friends we are denying the work and power of Almighty God. To a watching world there would be no evidence that there is a God in heaven, or if there is, that He has chosen us. In such a case, our very lives deny our own true identity. It doesn't negate our true identity but it does deny it. That true identity is given to us by God when He chose us, saved us, regenerated us, redeemed us by the blood of the Lamb.
When we live as if we are NOT called by His name we are living hypocritically because it denies who God says we are.
Have you ever thought about that? When we live "like those who have never been ruled" we are living like a hypocrite, denying the power of the One who saved us.
May we never live in a way that denies who we are or Whose we are.
"Then all flesh shall know that I am the Lord your Savior, and your Redeemer, the Mighty One of Jacob." Is 49:26
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.
We have become like those over whom you have never ruled, like those who are not called by your name.
Footnotes:
a. Isaiah 63:3 Or their juice; also verse 6
b. Isaiah 63:4 Or the year of my redeemed
c. Isaiah 63:9 Or he did not afflict
d. Isaiah 63:11 Or Then his people remembered the days of old, of Moses
e. Isaiah 63:15 Or holy and glorious
f. Isaiah 63:18 Or They have dispossessed your holy people for a little while
Cross references:
A. Isaiah 63:1 : Isaiah 34:6
B. Isaiah 63:1 : Psalm 68:7
C. Isaiah 63:2 : Rev 19:13
D. Isaiah 63:2 : Lam 1:15; Rev 14:20; 19:15
E. Isaiah 63:3 : Joel 3:13
F. Isaiah 63:3 : Isaiah 59:16
G. Isaiah 63:4 : Isaiah 34:8
H. Isaiah 63:5 : Isaiah 59:16
I. Isaiah 63:6 : Isaiah 49:26
J. Isaiah 63:7 : Psalm 145:7
K. Isaiah 63:9 : Judg 10:16
L. Isaiah 63:9 : Deut 7:7, 8; Ezek 16:5, 6
M. Isaiah 63:9 : Deut 32:10-12
N. Isaiah 63:10 : Exodus 15:24; Num 14:11; Psalm 78:17, 56; 95:9; Ezek 20:8
O. Isaiah 63:10 : Psalm 78:40; Acts 7:51; Eph 4:30
P. Isaiah 63:11 : Psalm 77:11-20
Q. Isaiah 63:11 : Exodus 14:19-22
R. Isaiah 63:12 : Exodus 14:21; Josh 3:16
S. Isaiah 63:12 : 2 Sam 7:23; Neh 9:10
T. Isaiah 63:14 : Num 10:33
U. Isaiah 63:14 : Isaiah 63:12
V. Isaiah 63:15 : Deut 26:15
W. Isaiah 63:15 : Psalm 33:14
X. Isaiah 63:15 : Isaiah 59:17; Zech 1:14
Y. Isaiah 63:16 : Isaiah 64:8; Deut 32:6
Z. Isaiah 63:16 : Isaiah 43:14
AA. Isaiah 63:17 : Isaiah 6:10; John 12:40
BB. Isaiah 63:17 : Psalm 90:13
CC. Isaiah 63:18 : Deut 4:25, 26
DD. Isaiah 63:18 : Isaiah 64:11
EE. Isaiah 63:19 : Jer 14:8
Have you ever had occasion to ask yourself, "Do I look, act, respond or think any differently than my unsaved neighbor? What evidence is there that I am a Christ-follower?"
Certainly there are times where we look no different and therefore begs the question, "What difference does it make that I know Jesus Christ?" When we are living like our unsaved friends we are denying the work and power of Almighty God. To a watching world there would be no evidence that there is a God in heaven, or if there is, that He has chosen us. In such a case, our very lives deny our own true identity. It doesn't negate our true identity but it does deny it. That true identity is given to us by God when He chose us, saved us, regenerated us, redeemed us by the blood of the Lamb.
When we live as if we are NOT called by His name we are living hypocritically because it denies who God says we are.
Have you ever thought about that? When we live "like those who have never been ruled" we are living like a hypocrite, denying the power of the One who saved us.
May we never live in a way that denies who we are or Whose we are.
"Then all flesh shall know that I am the Lord your Savior, and your Redeemer, the Mighty One of Jacob." Is 49:26
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.
Monday, January 09, 2012
Christmas in Review
This year I was deeply touched by our Lord's attention to details, but then He has always been a God who paid close attention to details.
I don't think that when Caesar Augustus issued a decree that a census should be taken of the entire Roman world, he knew that he was being used to send Mary and Joseph to Bethlehem so that Jesus, the perfect Lamb of God, would be born in the very place it was prophesied that He would be born. It was the place, Bethlehem, where lambs without spot or wrinkle were raised to be sacrificed in the temple. The shepherds who raised and cared for the sheep were the first to recognize and honor the Lamb of God who came to take away the sin of the world for all time. Amazing!! The prophecy was fulfilled. The requirement of the law of the day was honored. (I have posted the scripture below. I know Christmas has passed, but just in case you didn't have the time to be still and read the Christmas story, you can review it now.)
I believe that our wonderful Lord and Savior continues to be interested in the big and small details of our lives. The place we were born, the family we were born into, the place where we live is important in God's plan for our lives. The hurts in our today, the anxieties, the struggles .........He cares about all of that on our behalf. He continues to be able to raise up kings and use even a donkey to speak. We serve a mighty, able God.
My prayer for each of us as we move into the new Roman calendar year 2012 is that we would "see" the beautiful details in our lives so carefully and lovingly crafted by our Savior. That we would "see" and be open to the miracles He has prepared for us from the beginning of time. That we would walk confidently and respectfully under His watchful, guiding lovingkindness. That we would trust Him and submit fully to Him as Lord and Savior. Let us all trust in the Lord with all of our heart and lean not on our own understanding, rather in all ways let us acknowledge Him!! (Proverbs 3:5)
Patricia Wenzel
WOC Graduate
Luke 2
The Birth of Jesus
1 In those days Caesar Augustus issued a decree that a census should be taken of the entire Roman world. 2 (This was the first census that took place while [ a] Quirinius was governor of Syria.) 3 And everyone went to their own town to register.
4 So Joseph also went up from the town of Nazareth in Galilee to Judea, to Bethlehem the town of David, because he belonged to the house and line of David. 5 He went there to register with Mary, who was pledged to be married to him and was expecting a child. 6 While they were there, the time came for the baby to be born, 7 and she gave birth to her firstborn, a son. She wrapped him in cloths and placed him in a manger, because there was no guest room available for them.
8 And there were shepherds living out in the fields nearby, keeping watch over their flocks at night. 9 An angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified. 10 But the angel said to them, "Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people. 11 Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is the Messiah, the Lord. 12 This will be a sign to you: You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger."
13 Suddenly a great company of the heavenly host appeared with the angel, praising God and saying,
14 "Glory to God in the highest heaven,
and on earth peace to those on whom his favor rests."
15 When the angels had left them and gone into heaven, the shepherds said to one another, "Let's go to Bethlehem and see this thing that has happened, which the Lord has told us about."
16 So they hurried off and found Mary and Joseph, and the baby, who was lying in the manger. 17 When they had seen him, they spread the word concerning what had been told them about this child, 18 and all who heard it were amazed at what the shepherds said to them. 19 But Mary treasured up all these things and pondered them in her heart. 20 The shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all the things they had heard and seen: which were just as they had been told. (NIV)
I don't think that when Caesar Augustus issued a decree that a census should be taken of the entire Roman world, he knew that he was being used to send Mary and Joseph to Bethlehem so that Jesus, the perfect Lamb of God, would be born in the very place it was prophesied that He would be born. It was the place, Bethlehem, where lambs without spot or wrinkle were raised to be sacrificed in the temple. The shepherds who raised and cared for the sheep were the first to recognize and honor the Lamb of God who came to take away the sin of the world for all time. Amazing!! The prophecy was fulfilled. The requirement of the law of the day was honored. (I have posted the scripture below. I know Christmas has passed, but just in case you didn't have the time to be still and read the Christmas story, you can review it now.)
I believe that our wonderful Lord and Savior continues to be interested in the big and small details of our lives. The place we were born, the family we were born into, the place where we live is important in God's plan for our lives. The hurts in our today, the anxieties, the struggles .........He cares about all of that on our behalf. He continues to be able to raise up kings and use even a donkey to speak. We serve a mighty, able God.
My prayer for each of us as we move into the new Roman calendar year 2012 is that we would "see" the beautiful details in our lives so carefully and lovingly crafted by our Savior. That we would "see" and be open to the miracles He has prepared for us from the beginning of time. That we would walk confidently and respectfully under His watchful, guiding lovingkindness. That we would trust Him and submit fully to Him as Lord and Savior. Let us all trust in the Lord with all of our heart and lean not on our own understanding, rather in all ways let us acknowledge Him!! (Proverbs 3:5)
Patricia Wenzel
WOC Graduate
Luke 2
The Birth of Jesus
1 In those days Caesar Augustus issued a decree that a census should be taken of the entire Roman world. 2 (This was the first census that took place while [ a] Quirinius was governor of Syria.) 3 And everyone went to their own town to register.
4 So Joseph also went up from the town of Nazareth in Galilee to Judea, to Bethlehem the town of David, because he belonged to the house and line of David. 5 He went there to register with Mary, who was pledged to be married to him and was expecting a child. 6 While they were there, the time came for the baby to be born, 7 and she gave birth to her firstborn, a son. She wrapped him in cloths and placed him in a manger, because there was no guest room available for them.
8 And there were shepherds living out in the fields nearby, keeping watch over their flocks at night. 9 An angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified. 10 But the angel said to them, "Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people. 11 Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is the Messiah, the Lord. 12 This will be a sign to you: You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger."
13 Suddenly a great company of the heavenly host appeared with the angel, praising God and saying,
14 "Glory to God in the highest heaven,
and on earth peace to those on whom his favor rests."
15 When the angels had left them and gone into heaven, the shepherds said to one another, "Let's go to Bethlehem and see this thing that has happened, which the Lord has told us about."
16 So they hurried off and found Mary and Joseph, and the baby, who was lying in the manger. 17 When they had seen him, they spread the word concerning what had been told them about this child, 18 and all who heard it were amazed at what the shepherds said to them. 19 But Mary treasured up all these things and pondered them in her heart. 20 The shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all the things they had heard and seen: which were just as they had been told. (NIV)
Friday, January 06, 2012
Flat Tire
On my way into work one morning I passed a car moving slowly on the side of the road. While passing it was easy to see the driver's problem. The driver's side front tire was flat, barely hanging onto the rim. I came to a red light and was surprised when the driver pulled up behind me. I couldn't think that he could go much farther with his tire in that condition. As the light turned green and I began to continue on my way, he continued too. Soon he was pulling over to the side again but still going. I thought about where he might get help. We were traveling a section of Dover Road and Route 530 where the only thing in sight is pine trees. Then I thought, most likely this guy passed 2 gas stations before I passed him. Even if his tire blew after passing the stations, why not stop, knowing help was not too far away?
Certainly more damage would be done to his car by driving a distance on the wheel of the car. Now, he was heading in a direction where help would be miles away regardless of which direction he turned farther up the road. While thinking, "Silly man! Why don't you stop and get help while you can?" the Lord whispered the same thing to my heart. "Kathy, you've been going on a flat tire for quiet awhile now. You have been refusing to slow down for any length of time or come to a complete stop for My help. You passed Me miles back and have chosen to keep going. Sure, I am up ahead to help you at anytime but you are likely to experience more damage riding on your flat tire."
I know that my flat tire was caused by grief and a spin on the black ice of life. Things I didn't see coming, well, they came at me fast. But I have been pushing ahead while just getting enough air to go a little farther. Through our Grief Share Group here at Keswick, I learned that in times of grief you can pull closer to God or push Him away. I have been pushing. I don't know all the reasons why and I hate that I do it. I know I need to pull over for more than a shot of air yet I stubbornly try to inch ahead on my flat tire. Maybe I don't want to feel the depths of my pain. Maybe I don't want to get out of the driver's seat right now and have no control. Maybe I don't want to mourn fully because ...then what?
I can't see the road ahead. Still, I know that Help is there. He is not just up ahead, He is right next to me. I know it. Now, if I could just stop more often and get the tire fixed!
I don't know what may have caused your flat tire today. I don't speak as one who has all the answers but here are two. First, pull over. Get a little air. Second, consider the help of a group like Grief Share and Divorce Care or a good friend.
Knowing that my tires will one day be filled seems far off. I don't know when I will come through the road of grief before me. Lynne Jahns assures me that I will get through. When I do I'll look forward to us passing one another on the road one day. I will stop if your tire is flat and wait with you. If your tires are full and your ride is smooth I will rejoice with you!
(For information on Grief Share or Divorce Care please visit our website www.americaskeswick.org or call 800.453.7942.)
Blessings,
Kathy Withers
Kathy's on staff at America's KESWICK in the Development Department. Kathy has been married to her husband Dave for 26 years. They have two adult children. Kathy is active in her local church and has previously served as a Teaching Director for Community Bible Study. Her passion is to encourage women to deepen their walk with Jesus Christ by finding and living out the truths of God's Word.
Certainly more damage would be done to his car by driving a distance on the wheel of the car. Now, he was heading in a direction where help would be miles away regardless of which direction he turned farther up the road. While thinking, "Silly man! Why don't you stop and get help while you can?" the Lord whispered the same thing to my heart. "Kathy, you've been going on a flat tire for quiet awhile now. You have been refusing to slow down for any length of time or come to a complete stop for My help. You passed Me miles back and have chosen to keep going. Sure, I am up ahead to help you at anytime but you are likely to experience more damage riding on your flat tire."
I know that my flat tire was caused by grief and a spin on the black ice of life. Things I didn't see coming, well, they came at me fast. But I have been pushing ahead while just getting enough air to go a little farther. Through our Grief Share Group here at Keswick, I learned that in times of grief you can pull closer to God or push Him away. I have been pushing. I don't know all the reasons why and I hate that I do it. I know I need to pull over for more than a shot of air yet I stubbornly try to inch ahead on my flat tire. Maybe I don't want to feel the depths of my pain. Maybe I don't want to get out of the driver's seat right now and have no control. Maybe I don't want to mourn fully because ...then what?
I can't see the road ahead. Still, I know that Help is there. He is not just up ahead, He is right next to me. I know it. Now, if I could just stop more often and get the tire fixed!
I don't know what may have caused your flat tire today. I don't speak as one who has all the answers but here are two. First, pull over. Get a little air. Second, consider the help of a group like Grief Share and Divorce Care or a good friend.
Knowing that my tires will one day be filled seems far off. I don't know when I will come through the road of grief before me. Lynne Jahns assures me that I will get through. When I do I'll look forward to us passing one another on the road one day. I will stop if your tire is flat and wait with you. If your tires are full and your ride is smooth I will rejoice with you!
(For information on Grief Share or Divorce Care please visit our website www.americaskeswick.org or call 800.453.7942.)
Blessings,
Kathy Withers
Kathy's on staff at America's KESWICK in the Development Department. Kathy has been married to her husband Dave for 26 years. They have two adult children. Kathy is active in her local church and has previously served as a Teaching Director for Community Bible Study. Her passion is to encourage women to deepen their walk with Jesus Christ by finding and living out the truths of God's Word.
Thursday, January 05, 2012
The Gig Is Up...
I remember the first Sunday service I attended church as a believer. I was a new babe, so to speak. Looking around at the others there, I felt humbled. These were God's people. Then I thought, well, as soon as they find out I'm not like them the gig will be up. Wait a minute, that thought came from the pit of hell and smelled like smoke! It took a very short time for the Lord to renew my mind in that area and for me to understand and believe I was one of them, and that they were just like me. Sinners saved by grace.
That was 11 years ago and there are still times when I have to remind myself of who I am in Christ. It's not that I've forgotten, but I do have an enemy who likes to keep score of sins. I can just see him rubbing his slimy, condemned hands together as he attempts to torment; "Ah ha! Wait until I pull this skeleton out of her closet. I'll make it a real good one; this one's not B.C., it's one from after she was washed as white as snow...ha ha! There - take that mud on your testimony Miss "I'm one of God's people!"
Oh, go ahead pull whatever skeleton you want out. B.C. or after, it doesn't matter, all those bones have blood on them. The Blood!
Godly sorrow and the Holy Spirit's conviction, are meant to lead us to repentance and restoration. The accuser's condemnation leads us to hopelessness and helplessness.
I guess what "they" say is true, whoever "they" are; "Misery loves company." Well, no thanks. I'd rather keep company with Jesus.
So when they continued asking Him, He raised Himself up and said to them, "He who is without sin among you, let him throw a stone at her first." And again He stooped down and wrote on the ground. Then those who heard it, being convicted by their conscience, went out one by one, beginning with the oldest even to the last. And Jesus was left alone, and the woman standing in the midst. When Jesus had raised Himself up and saw no one but the woman, He said to her, "Woman, where are those accusers of yours? Has no one condemned you?" She said, "No one, Lord."
And Jesus said to her, "Neither do I condemn you; go and sin no more." (John 8:7-11, NKJV)
God is so good to us.
I keep a large stone on my desk with the word "First" written on it. When you turn it over it reads: Let he who is without sin, throw the first one.
It reminds me that I'm forgiven of my sins. All of them. It also reminds me that I won't ever be justified in throwing it.
Dina Seaton
Marketing Assistant, Staff Writer
That was 11 years ago and there are still times when I have to remind myself of who I am in Christ. It's not that I've forgotten, but I do have an enemy who likes to keep score of sins. I can just see him rubbing his slimy, condemned hands together as he attempts to torment; "Ah ha! Wait until I pull this skeleton out of her closet. I'll make it a real good one; this one's not B.C., it's one from after she was washed as white as snow...ha ha! There - take that mud on your testimony Miss "I'm one of God's people!"
Oh, go ahead pull whatever skeleton you want out. B.C. or after, it doesn't matter, all those bones have blood on them. The Blood!
Godly sorrow and the Holy Spirit's conviction, are meant to lead us to repentance and restoration. The accuser's condemnation leads us to hopelessness and helplessness.
I guess what "they" say is true, whoever "they" are; "Misery loves company." Well, no thanks. I'd rather keep company with Jesus.
So when they continued asking Him, He raised Himself up and said to them, "He who is without sin among you, let him throw a stone at her first." And again He stooped down and wrote on the ground. Then those who heard it, being convicted by their conscience, went out one by one, beginning with the oldest even to the last. And Jesus was left alone, and the woman standing in the midst. When Jesus had raised Himself up and saw no one but the woman, He said to her, "Woman, where are those accusers of yours? Has no one condemned you?" She said, "No one, Lord."
And Jesus said to her, "Neither do I condemn you; go and sin no more." (John 8:7-11, NKJV)
God is so good to us.
I keep a large stone on my desk with the word "First" written on it. When you turn it over it reads: Let he who is without sin, throw the first one.
It reminds me that I'm forgiven of my sins. All of them. It also reminds me that I won't ever be justified in throwing it.
Dina Seaton
Marketing Assistant, Staff Writer
Wednesday, January 04, 2012
Hard Lessons
"It was good for me to be afflicted so that I might learn your decrees." Psalm 119:71
Have you ever noticed that we tend to learn much more about the Lord and grow in our relationship with Him during tough times rather than when we are having smooth sailing? I know it has been that way for me.
I remember an illustration that Beth Moore used in one of her Bible Studies. She said that the Lord starts out teaching us something "in the classroom". If we don't learn the lesson "in the classroom", He will then "take us on a field trip". I don't know about you, but I've been on a number of "field trips" with the Lord. (And they weren't the fun kind that I took as a child in school!) It would have been easier to listen to Him and learn to obey in the classroom, but so often, it doesn't seem to work out that way; we need to learn things the hard way. But I am thankful that the Lord is patient with us, that He doesn't give up on us, and that He persists in teaching us what we need to know, even if it means some tough lessons, rather than just leaving us in our sin.
Can we say as the Psalmist did that it is good for us to be afflicted in order that we might learn His will, His way, and become obedient followers of Him? Only by His grace can we say that. Having been through some tough times that have brought some tough lessons, I can now say from the other side that it was good for me, even though it was hard. I think it is much more difficult to say that in the midst of a trial, but often, once we come out the other side and see all that the Lord has accomplished through it, we realize He was able to use it for our good, and for His glory.
If you have just come out of a time of trial, through eyes of faith, look back and see what the Lord accomplished through it, and thank Him. If you are finding it hard to see any good, ask the Lord, He'll show you. And if you are in the midst of a time of trial right now, hold on. Seek His face and know that the Lord is working in all things to accomplish His purposes in you and for you (Rom. 8:28). By faith, believe that on the other side, you will be able, by His grace, to say, "It was good for me to be afflicted so that I might learn your decrees."
Stacey Poplawski
WOC Graduate
Have you ever noticed that we tend to learn much more about the Lord and grow in our relationship with Him during tough times rather than when we are having smooth sailing? I know it has been that way for me.
I remember an illustration that Beth Moore used in one of her Bible Studies. She said that the Lord starts out teaching us something "in the classroom". If we don't learn the lesson "in the classroom", He will then "take us on a field trip". I don't know about you, but I've been on a number of "field trips" with the Lord. (And they weren't the fun kind that I took as a child in school!) It would have been easier to listen to Him and learn to obey in the classroom, but so often, it doesn't seem to work out that way; we need to learn things the hard way. But I am thankful that the Lord is patient with us, that He doesn't give up on us, and that He persists in teaching us what we need to know, even if it means some tough lessons, rather than just leaving us in our sin.
Can we say as the Psalmist did that it is good for us to be afflicted in order that we might learn His will, His way, and become obedient followers of Him? Only by His grace can we say that. Having been through some tough times that have brought some tough lessons, I can now say from the other side that it was good for me, even though it was hard. I think it is much more difficult to say that in the midst of a trial, but often, once we come out the other side and see all that the Lord has accomplished through it, we realize He was able to use it for our good, and for His glory.
If you have just come out of a time of trial, through eyes of faith, look back and see what the Lord accomplished through it, and thank Him. If you are finding it hard to see any good, ask the Lord, He'll show you. And if you are in the midst of a time of trial right now, hold on. Seek His face and know that the Lord is working in all things to accomplish His purposes in you and for you (Rom. 8:28). By faith, believe that on the other side, you will be able, by His grace, to say, "It was good for me to be afflicted so that I might learn your decrees."
Stacey Poplawski
WOC Graduate
Tuesday, January 03, 2012
The Blood Covenant
Over the past few months a team of intercessors I pray with regularly have been digging deeper into the study of the blood of Jesus. Our desire is to pray effective prayers as a righteous man that can accomplish much to the glory of our God (James 8:16b). What we are learning is that apart from the blood of Jesus there is no healing, no redemption, no mercy, and no fellowship with the God whom we serve.
When seeking revelation on the blood of Jesus we decided to start at the beginning. Genesis 3:21 tells the story of the very first blood sacrifice. God did it. He killed an animal to make a covering for Adam and Eve when they had sinned. He loved them so much He did not leave them in that place. He made a covering for them. Genesis 4:4 tells us of Abel's offering of blood, and Genesis 8:20 of Noah's offering. By the blood, Abraham and God "cut" a covenant (Genesis 15).
Who could forget the story of Passover when death passed over the homes of the Jewish people who obediently put the blood on the doorpost and lintel (Exodus 11-12). By the blood, the covenant was established with Moses and the Jewish people (Exodus 24). By the blood the Hebrew people could receive forgiveness of sins (Exodus 25:8). God, our holy God, wanted and continues to want to dwell with His people. But the blood was the only way for a holy God to dwell with His people.
Our God is still a covenant God. The Bible is a covenant book. A covenant is a solemn and binding commitment between two or more parties. It is endless. We have the most wonderful privilege to be under a new covenant. There is no need for animal sacrifice. Every time we take communion it is good for us to remember the seriousness and proclaim the promise of the covenant established by the blood of Jesus. We belong to Him. He paid a dear price. If He is your Lord, you are in covenant relationship with Him. Your enemy is His enemy. His enemy is your enemy. He has inscribed you and I on the very palm of His hands (Isaiah 49:16). Jesus said on the cross, "It is finished", and so it is (John 19:30). The assignment was completed. The blood of the Lamb without spot or wrinkle has been sacrificed for all time (1 Peter 1:19).
Therefore, if you have made a decision to enter the covenant relationship available to you by the blood of Jesus, cry out in thanksgiving. God is committed to YOU!! May He find you and me faithful.
Patricia L. Wenzel
WOC Graduate
When seeking revelation on the blood of Jesus we decided to start at the beginning. Genesis 3:21 tells the story of the very first blood sacrifice. God did it. He killed an animal to make a covering for Adam and Eve when they had sinned. He loved them so much He did not leave them in that place. He made a covering for them. Genesis 4:4 tells us of Abel's offering of blood, and Genesis 8:20 of Noah's offering. By the blood, Abraham and God "cut" a covenant (Genesis 15).
Who could forget the story of Passover when death passed over the homes of the Jewish people who obediently put the blood on the doorpost and lintel (Exodus 11-12). By the blood, the covenant was established with Moses and the Jewish people (Exodus 24). By the blood the Hebrew people could receive forgiveness of sins (Exodus 25:8). God, our holy God, wanted and continues to want to dwell with His people. But the blood was the only way for a holy God to dwell with His people.
Our God is still a covenant God. The Bible is a covenant book. A covenant is a solemn and binding commitment between two or more parties. It is endless. We have the most wonderful privilege to be under a new covenant. There is no need for animal sacrifice. Every time we take communion it is good for us to remember the seriousness and proclaim the promise of the covenant established by the blood of Jesus. We belong to Him. He paid a dear price. If He is your Lord, you are in covenant relationship with Him. Your enemy is His enemy. His enemy is your enemy. He has inscribed you and I on the very palm of His hands (Isaiah 49:16). Jesus said on the cross, "It is finished", and so it is (John 19:30). The assignment was completed. The blood of the Lamb without spot or wrinkle has been sacrificed for all time (1 Peter 1:19).
Therefore, if you have made a decision to enter the covenant relationship available to you by the blood of Jesus, cry out in thanksgiving. God is committed to YOU!! May He find you and me faithful.
Patricia L. Wenzel
WOC Graduate
Monday, January 02, 2012
Perfect Love
Once again, the Lord brought a moment as only He can and does. Someone came into my office with a ministry-related question and in the course of it, seemingly by accident, shared the concern and heavy burden that was presently weighing down their heart.
As surely as I'm human - of flesh, blood and bone- I found myself one hundred percent relating to their serious concerns. Though situationally different, the truth God reminded us of IN THE MOMENT was this: PERFECT LOVE CASTS OUT FEAR!!
The calling of ministry is hard work! Life is hard work and few of us do it as well as we'd like. Yet, one day at a time, we rise up determined to bring our best to bear in all of our comings and goings, in all of our doings for the Lord's glory and our present joy!
But then, something from our past raises its ugly head demanding our attention; something which has circled in a corner of our consciousness for days, months...and now, it's time to pay the piper. Yes, it's time to take care of the issues that can no longer be ignored. What to do?
The first instinct of our flesh is to push "play" on the jumbled reel of our history and see all the mistakes, the lost opportunities, the moments we coulda, woulda, shoulda. If only we had or hadn't. The tape rolls on and the enemy has a party at our expense. Why? Because he has convinced us to forget WHOSE we are! We take this feature film of past woe and succumb to fear and stinking thinking! We forget to remind ourselves of this truth: the Spirit of Truth abides in us. Therefore, WE CAN FUNCTION IN FAITH rather than fear!
Do your worst, devil! We shall not be moved! Abba Father, Sovereign God, did not give us a spirit of fear! Nope! He gave us a spirit of POWER, and of LOVE and of a SOUND MIND!
So I ask you/us: what is the thing that demands attention or has demanded your attention which has been ignored, pushed aside as something to do LATER? Well, today is our later! Let's choose today to let LOVE HIMSELF abide and cast out the fear that has kept us from wanting to do what is required of us to do justly, to love mercy and to walk humbly with our God!
Let our doing (whatever it is) testify of the LORD!
Has He not brought us up out of the miry clay and set our feet upon THE ROCK?! Has He not redeemed us from the house of bondage! Dear ones, the LIVING WORD is calling us to remember now! We have all seen and tasted the righteousness of the LORD, the love of GOD! What can come before us to ever separate us from Him! Nothing!!
He has shown you, O man, what is good; and what does the LORD require of you but to do justly, to love mercy, and to walk humbly with your God! ~ Micah 6:8
Stephanie
Stephanie Paul, wife and mother of two grown children. An "instrument of change" in the Redeemer's Hand, in the lives of wounded and hurting women. Currently serving as a part of the Addiction Recovery Team at America's Keswick as Woman of Character Program Administrator.
As surely as I'm human - of flesh, blood and bone- I found myself one hundred percent relating to their serious concerns. Though situationally different, the truth God reminded us of IN THE MOMENT was this: PERFECT LOVE CASTS OUT FEAR!!
The calling of ministry is hard work! Life is hard work and few of us do it as well as we'd like. Yet, one day at a time, we rise up determined to bring our best to bear in all of our comings and goings, in all of our doings for the Lord's glory and our present joy!
But then, something from our past raises its ugly head demanding our attention; something which has circled in a corner of our consciousness for days, months...and now, it's time to pay the piper. Yes, it's time to take care of the issues that can no longer be ignored. What to do?
The first instinct of our flesh is to push "play" on the jumbled reel of our history and see all the mistakes, the lost opportunities, the moments we coulda, woulda, shoulda. If only we had or hadn't. The tape rolls on and the enemy has a party at our expense. Why? Because he has convinced us to forget WHOSE we are! We take this feature film of past woe and succumb to fear and stinking thinking! We forget to remind ourselves of this truth: the Spirit of Truth abides in us. Therefore, WE CAN FUNCTION IN FAITH rather than fear!
Do your worst, devil! We shall not be moved! Abba Father, Sovereign God, did not give us a spirit of fear! Nope! He gave us a spirit of POWER, and of LOVE and of a SOUND MIND!
So I ask you/us: what is the thing that demands attention or has demanded your attention which has been ignored, pushed aside as something to do LATER? Well, today is our later! Let's choose today to let LOVE HIMSELF abide and cast out the fear that has kept us from wanting to do what is required of us to do justly, to love mercy and to walk humbly with our God!
Let our doing (whatever it is) testify of the LORD!
Has He not brought us up out of the miry clay and set our feet upon THE ROCK?! Has He not redeemed us from the house of bondage! Dear ones, the LIVING WORD is calling us to remember now! We have all seen and tasted the righteousness of the LORD, the love of GOD! What can come before us to ever separate us from Him! Nothing!!
He has shown you, O man, what is good; and what does the LORD require of you but to do justly, to love mercy, and to walk humbly with your God! ~ Micah 6:8
Stephanie
Stephanie Paul, wife and mother of two grown children. An "instrument of change" in the Redeemer's Hand, in the lives of wounded and hurting women. Currently serving as a part of the Addiction Recovery Team at America's Keswick as Woman of Character Program Administrator.
Friday, December 30, 2011
Digging Deeper James 5: 19-20 Points to Ponder
James 5:19-20 My brothers, if anyone among you wanders from the truth and someone brings him back, let him know that whoever brings back a sinner from his wandering will save his soul from death and will cover a multitude of sins.
Points to Ponder
It is not easy to challenge someone with the Truth when they have wandered away. I appreciate the word"'wander" because so often that is how the slide occurs. It is not usually a mad-dash from truth to error but a slow meandering, one ever-so-slight compromise at a time. Have you found that to be true in your experience? The only way to genuinely help the wanderer (whether it be you or someone else) is to guide them to THE TRUTH, not someone's interpretation of THE TRUTH but the Word of God. It is HIS WORD that has power, not ours. "All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness," 2 Timothy 3:16. There is nothing better, more powerful, or sweeter that THE WORD OF GOD.
Psalm 119:9, 11 "How can a young man keep his way pure? By guarding it according to your word... I have stored up your word in my heart, that I might not sin against you."
Have a great weekend as we usher in the dawn of a new year. May 2012 be a year of great grace, joy, hope and delight in the written and Living Word.
Blessings,
Diane
Points to Ponder
It is not easy to challenge someone with the Truth when they have wandered away. I appreciate the word"'wander" because so often that is how the slide occurs. It is not usually a mad-dash from truth to error but a slow meandering, one ever-so-slight compromise at a time. Have you found that to be true in your experience? The only way to genuinely help the wanderer (whether it be you or someone else) is to guide them to THE TRUTH, not someone's interpretation of THE TRUTH but the Word of God. It is HIS WORD that has power, not ours. "All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness," 2 Timothy 3:16. There is nothing better, more powerful, or sweeter that THE WORD OF GOD.
Psalm 119:9, 11 "How can a young man keep his way pure? By guarding it according to your word... I have stored up your word in my heart, that I might not sin against you."
Have a great weekend as we usher in the dawn of a new year. May 2012 be a year of great grace, joy, hope and delight in the written and Living Word.
Blessings,
Diane
Thursday, December 29, 2011
Spirit-Led
Then Jesus answered and said to them, "Most assuredly, I say to you, the Son can do nothing of Himself, but what He sees the Father do; for whatever He does, the Son also does in like manner." ~John 5:19
One of the believer's greatest joys is being led by the Spirit. What a marvelous thing it is, to be, in a moment of time, experiencing something which you instantly and instinctively know is other than you! In other words it's supernatural! It's led by the Spirit and not of the flesh, lest we boast and seek to take credit for it! Ya'll know what I mean!
Today's air is crisp and cool and the sun shines brightly. The lower lake shimmers and ever so slightly ripples as the fingers of the wind pass over it. Joy wells up within as I behold the wonder, the glory that is creation! The joy I know because of the Creator! I get to share in it with all my senses for no other reason than I am fearfully and wonderfully made! In the image of Him, Who is above all things, we are created to live and move and have our being in Him!
Another joy I experienced today is prayer led simple and purely of the Spirit. Wow! So simple and sweet and such a God-moment!
I went over to the main building (Raws Memorial) this morning and in the process of printing something had a mini-conversation with a dear brother in the Lord! This brother loves Jesus!
There is no pomp and circumstance with him, no pretense, no posturing at the expense of others for us to get a better look at how wonderful he is. He simple is who he is!
Today I was privileged to catch a glimpse of Christ in him as he went from doing one of his daily task to standing a distance from me (he had a cold) and without a speck of fanfare, began to pray.
The hairs stood up on the back of my neck! I was on full alert because I felt the presence of the Spirit there in that moment!
One of the things he prayed, so powerfully, so struck me that I rushed out of the building and back to my office to write this victory call.
In essence, what this brother prayed spoke volumes to me because I saw in that moment the main reason I have been so tired and worn out lately...ok, for many months now.
Jesus said, "...the Son can do nothing of Himself..."
He went on to pray, "Lord, why do we think we can do it all or that we must do it all in our own strength when even you did nothing of Yourself?"
Dear sisters, I don't know if this is speaking to you at all. Maybe it was just for me. But as sure as I know the flesh, I don't think I am alone.
Be encouraged today to behold your God, Maker and King! Cry out to Him for the strength you know you do not have on your own to do what lies before you TODAY!
Pause and pray NOW! Don't wait till later, till you're less busy! You/we need His strength now to abide and endure to the end!
Stephanie
Stephanie Paul, wife and mother of two grown children. An "instrument of change" in the Redeemer's Hand, in the lives of wounded and hurting women. Currently serving as a part of the Addiction Recovery Team at America's Keswick as Woman of Character Program Administrator.
One of the believer's greatest joys is being led by the Spirit. What a marvelous thing it is, to be, in a moment of time, experiencing something which you instantly and instinctively know is other than you! In other words it's supernatural! It's led by the Spirit and not of the flesh, lest we boast and seek to take credit for it! Ya'll know what I mean!
Today's air is crisp and cool and the sun shines brightly. The lower lake shimmers and ever so slightly ripples as the fingers of the wind pass over it. Joy wells up within as I behold the wonder, the glory that is creation! The joy I know because of the Creator! I get to share in it with all my senses for no other reason than I am fearfully and wonderfully made! In the image of Him, Who is above all things, we are created to live and move and have our being in Him!
Another joy I experienced today is prayer led simple and purely of the Spirit. Wow! So simple and sweet and such a God-moment!
I went over to the main building (Raws Memorial) this morning and in the process of printing something had a mini-conversation with a dear brother in the Lord! This brother loves Jesus!
There is no pomp and circumstance with him, no pretense, no posturing at the expense of others for us to get a better look at how wonderful he is. He simple is who he is!
Today I was privileged to catch a glimpse of Christ in him as he went from doing one of his daily task to standing a distance from me (he had a cold) and without a speck of fanfare, began to pray.
The hairs stood up on the back of my neck! I was on full alert because I felt the presence of the Spirit there in that moment!
One of the things he prayed, so powerfully, so struck me that I rushed out of the building and back to my office to write this victory call.
In essence, what this brother prayed spoke volumes to me because I saw in that moment the main reason I have been so tired and worn out lately...ok, for many months now.
Jesus said, "...the Son can do nothing of Himself..."
He went on to pray, "Lord, why do we think we can do it all or that we must do it all in our own strength when even you did nothing of Yourself?"
Dear sisters, I don't know if this is speaking to you at all. Maybe it was just for me. But as sure as I know the flesh, I don't think I am alone.
Be encouraged today to behold your God, Maker and King! Cry out to Him for the strength you know you do not have on your own to do what lies before you TODAY!
Pause and pray NOW! Don't wait till later, till you're less busy! You/we need His strength now to abide and endure to the end!
Stephanie
Stephanie Paul, wife and mother of two grown children. An "instrument of change" in the Redeemer's Hand, in the lives of wounded and hurting women. Currently serving as a part of the Addiction Recovery Team at America's Keswick as Woman of Character Program Administrator.
Wednesday, December 28, 2011
Eagle Eyes
I heard a report from the Seattle area news about a bald eagle that apparently got tangled up in a rope. In his failed attempts to get free, he wound up thrashing himself against a fence and ending up in the water, still bound by the rope around his leg.
A number of people tried to help, but the eagle wouldn't have any of it. An expert handler (the media dubbed "the eagle whisperer"), was called and he was able to sooth the eagle with his whistle and bird sounds enough so that he could place a blanket over his eyes. Once done, that calmed the eagle to a still and the handler was able to cut the rope that bound him. Holding this great American Eagle in a blanket as if it were a wounded baby bird, the handler uncovered the eagle, began stroking it's mighty head while whispering, "Ah...I'm sorry you're all wet." You'd think they'd have just set him free. But instead they took him a few hours away to a bird sanctuary or what they called "bird rehab." He'll be recovering there for a few weeks, and then be returned to the location he was originally found. The handlers will even make sure he can still fly before they set him free again. Amazing!
Even more amazing is that eagles mate for life. The entire time this drama was unfolding the eagle's mate sat perched up high watching every move with her eagle eyes. Helpless...not a word I'd probably equate with an American Bald Eagle. But what would her options be? She couldn't very well go untie the rope from his leg. But I guess she could make sure no other predators took advantage of him while he was down. They anticipate that upon the return of the male eagle, they'll find the female will have remained. Amazing!
I'm amazed at the faithfulness of an eagle and her ever watchful eye. But the most amazing detail of the story is that my God made this creature and He saw her mate drop to the ground with HIS EYE!
"Are not two sparrows sold for a copper coin? And not one of them falls to the ground apart from your Father's will." Matthew 10:29
It is that very Eye that watches over me, over us. Now that's amazing!
"I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go;
I will guide you with My eye." Psalm 32:8
Man and woman made in His image...far more precious than the birds of the air, and always in His sight.
Dina Seaton
Marketing Assistant, Staff Writer
A number of people tried to help, but the eagle wouldn't have any of it. An expert handler (the media dubbed "the eagle whisperer"), was called and he was able to sooth the eagle with his whistle and bird sounds enough so that he could place a blanket over his eyes. Once done, that calmed the eagle to a still and the handler was able to cut the rope that bound him. Holding this great American Eagle in a blanket as if it were a wounded baby bird, the handler uncovered the eagle, began stroking it's mighty head while whispering, "Ah...I'm sorry you're all wet." You'd think they'd have just set him free. But instead they took him a few hours away to a bird sanctuary or what they called "bird rehab." He'll be recovering there for a few weeks, and then be returned to the location he was originally found. The handlers will even make sure he can still fly before they set him free again. Amazing!
Even more amazing is that eagles mate for life. The entire time this drama was unfolding the eagle's mate sat perched up high watching every move with her eagle eyes. Helpless...not a word I'd probably equate with an American Bald Eagle. But what would her options be? She couldn't very well go untie the rope from his leg. But I guess she could make sure no other predators took advantage of him while he was down. They anticipate that upon the return of the male eagle, they'll find the female will have remained. Amazing!
I'm amazed at the faithfulness of an eagle and her ever watchful eye. But the most amazing detail of the story is that my God made this creature and He saw her mate drop to the ground with HIS EYE!
"Are not two sparrows sold for a copper coin? And not one of them falls to the ground apart from your Father's will." Matthew 10:29
It is that very Eye that watches over me, over us. Now that's amazing!
"I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go;
I will guide you with My eye." Psalm 32:8
Man and woman made in His image...far more precious than the birds of the air, and always in His sight.
Dina Seaton
Marketing Assistant, Staff Writer
Tuesday, December 27, 2011
LET'S GET TO READING IN 2012
Psalm 1:2 But his delight is in the law of the LORD; and in his law doth he meditate day and night.
I AM ALMOST FINISHED! As of New Year's Eve, I will have completed my 47th year of reading through the entire Bible!
I started in 1964. Why then? I had been married five years and was expecting my third child. At that time we attended what would now be called a very legalistic church. Our pastor was also the Sunday school teacher of the adult class. Each Sunday he would ask every person, "How many chapters of the Bible did you read this week?" I generally mumbled "One," or maybe, "Two." I reasoned that surely I had read that many if I counted the Bible reading at church or surely in that Adult Sunday school class! Finally, I was tired of dreading that question, so I decided to join the others in our class who had taken on the challenge of reading through the whole Bible in a year. In those days, no one had heard of the One Year Bible. We did have a chart that began with Genesis and ended with Revelation. I checked that chart each day to find my assigned reading for the day. I was determined to follow the chart, and I was very methodical in my reading, and could proudly report the large number of chapters loudly to the class each week. I secretly hoped everyone was properly impressed because I was "so spiritual."
All went well until June 25 of that year, 1964. Our 7-week-old son, Jimmy, was found dead in his crib by my husband, Glen, apparently due to SIDS. But this wasn't supposed to happen to a "spiritual" person like me! I dutifully continued to read the assigned passages, but my heart wasn't in it. After June 25, my reading was robotic. I knew I had not absorbed much, so I decided to try it again the next year. The reading did go better and was only interrupted by the fact I gave birth to twins on Christmas Day of 1965. Our identical twin boys were named Nathan James and Ethan Thomas. Ethan was the smaller of the twins and only survived ten days. Needless to say, my reading became robotic once again.
Life found a normalcy after that. We became 40-year residents of California. I raised three children and my reading became a very natural part of me. In 1983 Nathan was killed by a drunk driver. To say I "trudged through" my reading that year would be quite accurate, but I didn't want to quit. My reading through the Bible each year had become a part of me.
I became the proud owner of a One Year Bible in the 70's. That made the reading so much easier. I started with the Living Translation, and now have nearly every translation in my library.
If you have not adopted a devotional routine, I implore you to start now. I have learned so much by acquiring a routine of reading each day.
I have learned:
The Bible isn't just a compilation of different books by various authors, but it all fits together. The One Year Bible presents a portion of the Old Testament, Psalms, Proverbs, and the New Testament daily. I am amazed to discover how each portion often covers the same topic or issue.
I normally sit down to begin my devotions with pen in hand so that I can underline the verses that speak to me specifically. I also have a notepad nearby so that I can jot down extraneous thoughts Satan will put in my way.
I'm certain that God sneaks extra verses into the Bible during the night because I had not noticed them before. :)
As I read through the book of Daniel, I realized that Daniel had to wait a long time for an answer to his prayer because the prayer delivery person had to fight the prince of darkness to get there! Have you ever considered praying for the prayer angel that he will have a safe and quick trip? I pray for the "prayer delivery" person now. The last thing Satan wants is for our prayers to be answered.
Many of you know that Glen and I live full-time in a motorhome...less than 350 square feet of space. I am often asked, "How do you find the privacy to have your devotions?" I answer, "That's easy, when I'm done, I simply say, 'Glen, you can get up now!'"
I urge you to take time to listen to God and talk with Him. He's waiting for you!
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.
Bill Welte, President and CEO, invites you to join him this year in reading through the Bible. Bill's desire is not to add one more thing to your "to do" list, but to make reading the Bible a priority this year. Visit our website www.americaskeswick.org to download a copy of this year's reading plan. Each daily reading contains portions of scripture from the Old Testament, Proverbs and the New Testament. You may also join Kathy Withers, Development Associate, on our America's Keswick Daily Bible Reading Facebook page for weekly encouragement throughout the year as we make our way through the Bible in a year. Just a few minutes a day and you CAN read through the Bible in a year!
I AM ALMOST FINISHED! As of New Year's Eve, I will have completed my 47th year of reading through the entire Bible!
I started in 1964. Why then? I had been married five years and was expecting my third child. At that time we attended what would now be called a very legalistic church. Our pastor was also the Sunday school teacher of the adult class. Each Sunday he would ask every person, "How many chapters of the Bible did you read this week?" I generally mumbled "One," or maybe, "Two." I reasoned that surely I had read that many if I counted the Bible reading at church or surely in that Adult Sunday school class! Finally, I was tired of dreading that question, so I decided to join the others in our class who had taken on the challenge of reading through the whole Bible in a year. In those days, no one had heard of the One Year Bible. We did have a chart that began with Genesis and ended with Revelation. I checked that chart each day to find my assigned reading for the day. I was determined to follow the chart, and I was very methodical in my reading, and could proudly report the large number of chapters loudly to the class each week. I secretly hoped everyone was properly impressed because I was "so spiritual."
All went well until June 25 of that year, 1964. Our 7-week-old son, Jimmy, was found dead in his crib by my husband, Glen, apparently due to SIDS. But this wasn't supposed to happen to a "spiritual" person like me! I dutifully continued to read the assigned passages, but my heart wasn't in it. After June 25, my reading was robotic. I knew I had not absorbed much, so I decided to try it again the next year. The reading did go better and was only interrupted by the fact I gave birth to twins on Christmas Day of 1965. Our identical twin boys were named Nathan James and Ethan Thomas. Ethan was the smaller of the twins and only survived ten days. Needless to say, my reading became robotic once again.
Life found a normalcy after that. We became 40-year residents of California. I raised three children and my reading became a very natural part of me. In 1983 Nathan was killed by a drunk driver. To say I "trudged through" my reading that year would be quite accurate, but I didn't want to quit. My reading through the Bible each year had become a part of me.
I became the proud owner of a One Year Bible in the 70's. That made the reading so much easier. I started with the Living Translation, and now have nearly every translation in my library.
If you have not adopted a devotional routine, I implore you to start now. I have learned so much by acquiring a routine of reading each day.
I have learned:
The Bible isn't just a compilation of different books by various authors, but it all fits together. The One Year Bible presents a portion of the Old Testament, Psalms, Proverbs, and the New Testament daily. I am amazed to discover how each portion often covers the same topic or issue.
I normally sit down to begin my devotions with pen in hand so that I can underline the verses that speak to me specifically. I also have a notepad nearby so that I can jot down extraneous thoughts Satan will put in my way.
I'm certain that God sneaks extra verses into the Bible during the night because I had not noticed them before. :)
As I read through the book of Daniel, I realized that Daniel had to wait a long time for an answer to his prayer because the prayer delivery person had to fight the prince of darkness to get there! Have you ever considered praying for the prayer angel that he will have a safe and quick trip? I pray for the "prayer delivery" person now. The last thing Satan wants is for our prayers to be answered.
Many of you know that Glen and I live full-time in a motorhome...less than 350 square feet of space. I am often asked, "How do you find the privacy to have your devotions?" I answer, "That's easy, when I'm done, I simply say, 'Glen, you can get up now!'"
I urge you to take time to listen to God and talk with Him. He's waiting for you!
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.
Bill Welte, President and CEO, invites you to join him this year in reading through the Bible. Bill's desire is not to add one more thing to your "to do" list, but to make reading the Bible a priority this year. Visit our website www.americaskeswick.org to download a copy of this year's reading plan. Each daily reading contains portions of scripture from the Old Testament, Proverbs and the New Testament. You may also join Kathy Withers, Development Associate, on our America's Keswick Daily Bible Reading Facebook page for weekly encouragement throughout the year as we make our way through the Bible in a year. Just a few minutes a day and you CAN read through the Bible in a year!
Monday, December 26, 2011
Digging Deeper James 5:17-18 with points to ponder
Christ-mas is past, but the Christ LIVES. I hope your Christ-mas was more meaningful than presents and food. I know it is something we have to be intentional about otherwise we can easily get caught up in the glitter and lights, food and family. Praise God that because Jesus came in the midst of all those fun things, we have a greater hope, an anticipation of a greater home and family. I wonder what it will be like in Heaven on Jesus' birthday... Something to look forward to.
We are wrapping up our journey through James this week and because we still have 4 verses to finish, I hope you don't mind but I am going to do 2 points to ponder this week rather than a commentary and Points to ponder for each (which I'd need 4 days for).
James 5:17-18
Elijah was a man with a nature like ours, and he prayed fervently that it might not rain, and for three years and six months it did not rain on the earth. Then he prayed again, and heaven gave rain, and the earth bore its fruit.
Points to Ponder
Can you imagine Elijah-like faith? He prayed in faith believing that his prayers mattered. Do you pray believing that your prayers matter? Honestly, sometimes I do, and sometimes I don't. When was the last time you prayed for something so big that it was humanly impossible to accomplish? When was the last time you prayed for something that unless God did it, it would not succeed?
When I look at Elijah and read of his faith and prayer, I realize in comparison, my prayers are wimpy, lacking faith. I wonder what God would do if we just believed HIM for more. "And he did not do many mighty works there, because of their unbelief" Matthew 13:58.
Blessings,
Diane
Cross references:
A. James 5:17 : Acts 14:15
B. James 5:17 : 1 Kgs 17:1; 18:1
C. James 5:17 : Luke 4:25
D. James 5:18 : 1 Kgs 18:42, 45
We are wrapping up our journey through James this week and because we still have 4 verses to finish, I hope you don't mind but I am going to do 2 points to ponder this week rather than a commentary and Points to ponder for each (which I'd need 4 days for).
James 5:17-18
Elijah was a man with a nature like ours, and he prayed fervently that it might not rain, and for three years and six months it did not rain on the earth. Then he prayed again, and heaven gave rain, and the earth bore its fruit.
Points to Ponder
Can you imagine Elijah-like faith? He prayed in faith believing that his prayers mattered. Do you pray believing that your prayers matter? Honestly, sometimes I do, and sometimes I don't. When was the last time you prayed for something so big that it was humanly impossible to accomplish? When was the last time you prayed for something that unless God did it, it would not succeed?
When I look at Elijah and read of his faith and prayer, I realize in comparison, my prayers are wimpy, lacking faith. I wonder what God would do if we just believed HIM for more. "And he did not do many mighty works there, because of their unbelief" Matthew 13:58.
Blessings,
Diane
Cross references:
A. James 5:17 : Acts 14:15
B. James 5:17 : 1 Kgs 17:1; 18:1
C. James 5:17 : Luke 4:25
D. James 5:18 : 1 Kgs 18:42, 45
Friday, December 23, 2011
Digging Deeper James 5:16b Points to Ponder
What a fabulous season. Lights, food, parties, decorations, shopping, food, laughter, fires in the fireplace, food, cookies, Christmas carols, and bright-eyed children. I know not everyone sees the Holidays this way. For some it is a lonely, depressing time, a reminder of loss and yester-years. If you are in this latter group, would you zip me an email- I'd like to pray for you specifically that the Christ Child would warm your heart and your spirit and meet the longing of your heart in a way that only HE can.
James 5:16b The prayer of a righteous person has great power as it is working (ESV). The effective, fervent prayer of a righteous man avails much (NKJV). The prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective (NIV). The earnest (heartfelt, continued) prayer of a righteous man makes tremendous power available [dynamic in its working] (Amplified).
Points to Ponder
I often say and am reminded personally that prayer is a great gift. As my children grew to adulthood and less and less was within my "control," I grew to understand more and more that prayer is no small thing. I have learned to pray more in faith than in fear, but sometimes it is a mixture of both.
Can you classify your prayer life as fervent? Passionate? Earnest? I'm not saying that wimpy prayers don't get answered, because God hears our hearts; some prayers don't even pass our lips and God sends the answer. Prayers of faith, believing in the One that hears and has the power to answer to change circumstances and people. That is the One we pray to. He hears. He delights in giving good things to His children. He always, always, always is accomplishing His greatest glory and our greatest good.
So pray. Pray believing. Pray in faith. Pray for great things. Pray for impossible things. Pray that God be glorified. Pray because your prayers may be the very means by which God desires to accomplish His plans and purposes.
Have a great weekend. Take time to rest body, mind and spirit.
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.
Footnotes:
a. James 5:16 Or The effective prayer of a righteous person has great power
Cross references:
A. James 5:16 : Acts 19:18
B. James 5:16 : Heb 12:13
C. James 5:16 : Gen 18:23-32; 20:17; Num 11:2; 1 Kgs 13:6; 17:22; 2 Kgs 4:33; 19:15-20; 20:2-5; Job 42:8; Prov 15:29
James 5:16b The prayer of a righteous person has great power as it is working (ESV). The effective, fervent prayer of a righteous man avails much (NKJV). The prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective (NIV). The earnest (heartfelt, continued) prayer of a righteous man makes tremendous power available [dynamic in its working] (Amplified).
Points to Ponder
I often say and am reminded personally that prayer is a great gift. As my children grew to adulthood and less and less was within my "control," I grew to understand more and more that prayer is no small thing. I have learned to pray more in faith than in fear, but sometimes it is a mixture of both.
Can you classify your prayer life as fervent? Passionate? Earnest? I'm not saying that wimpy prayers don't get answered, because God hears our hearts; some prayers don't even pass our lips and God sends the answer. Prayers of faith, believing in the One that hears and has the power to answer to change circumstances and people. That is the One we pray to. He hears. He delights in giving good things to His children. He always, always, always is accomplishing His greatest glory and our greatest good.
So pray. Pray believing. Pray in faith. Pray for great things. Pray for impossible things. Pray that God be glorified. Pray because your prayers may be the very means by which God desires to accomplish His plans and purposes.
Have a great weekend. Take time to rest body, mind and spirit.
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.
Footnotes:
a. James 5:16 Or The effective prayer of a righteous person has great power
Cross references:
A. James 5:16 : Acts 19:18
B. James 5:16 : Heb 12:13
C. James 5:16 : Gen 18:23-32; 20:17; Num 11:2; 1 Kgs 13:6; 17:22; 2 Kgs 4:33; 19:15-20; 20:2-5; Job 42:8; Prov 15:29
Thursday, December 22, 2011
The Miracle of Christmas
Christmas Day is a day we set aside to celebrate the Birth of Jesus, who came for the purpose of giving us Life Everlasting. For some, Christmas is also a time to give and receive gifts from family & friends, and to feast on bountiful food around the table. For others it may be a lonely time due to various circumstances. If you know someone that is spending Christmas alone, if possible invite them to your home to enjoy some company, and to take part around the table for some delicious food. But most importantly, keep Jesus in the celebration - He is the best gift of all - He is the Messiah - The Savior of the world. "Share the gift."
Share His Mission: When Jesus became 12 years old, He understood His Mission on earth; when Jesus was about 30 years of age, He began to proclaim the Good News. The Scriptures tell of the many rejections that Jesus endured during His time of ministry on earth. Why? Because some didn't believe that He was the Messiah, and others bullied Him and falsely accused Him.
Jesus is the reason for Christmas. Jesus' story is the best story ever told because His story conveys His love for us, and expresses how much He understands our circumstances. I've heard some say, "But He is God, so how can He know my pain?" Have you read His story? If you have, then you know that He suffered much, and far more than we can ever imagine. Philippians 2, "Christ's Example of Humility." "Let each of you look not only to our own interests, but also to the interests of others. Have this mind among yourselves, which is yours in Christ Jesus, who though he was in the form of God, did not count equality with God a thing to be grasped, but made himself nothing, taking the form of a servant, being born in the likeness of men. And being found in human form, he humbled himself by becoming obedient to the point of death, even death on a cross. Therefore God has highly exalted him and bestowed on him the name that is above every name" Philippians 2:4-9 (ESV).
Yes, Jesus loves us, and He understands our journey on earth.
And the Word (Jesus) became flesh and dwelt among us, and we have seen his glory, glory as of the only Son from the Father, full of grace and truth - John 1:14 (ESV). Jesus left the splendor of Heaven knowing His destiny - that is love! I wonder how I would have felt if I was living during the time of Jesus' time on earth? Imagine walking alongside of Him; hearing His voice live; having eye contact and touching Him. However, I can't imagine witnessing His death on the cross. Praise God - He is Alive!
Will you receive His love without performing or doing anything you can do for Him? Try to envision God's love for you out of sheer joy over your presence with Him. He loves you, desires you, values you, and is emotionally attached to you. God is all- powerful, the King of Kings and Lord of Lords, and worthy to be praised!
Merry Christmas!
Pat Spies
Women's Ministry Volunteer
DIGGING DEEPER
James 5:16b The prayer of a righteous person has great power as it is working (ESV). The effective, fervent prayer of a righteous man avails much (NKJV). The prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective (NIV). The earnest (heartfelt, continued) prayer of a righteous man makes tremendous power available [dynamic in its working] (Amplified).
Share His Mission: When Jesus became 12 years old, He understood His Mission on earth; when Jesus was about 30 years of age, He began to proclaim the Good News. The Scriptures tell of the many rejections that Jesus endured during His time of ministry on earth. Why? Because some didn't believe that He was the Messiah, and others bullied Him and falsely accused Him.
Jesus is the reason for Christmas. Jesus' story is the best story ever told because His story conveys His love for us, and expresses how much He understands our circumstances. I've heard some say, "But He is God, so how can He know my pain?" Have you read His story? If you have, then you know that He suffered much, and far more than we can ever imagine. Philippians 2, "Christ's Example of Humility." "Let each of you look not only to our own interests, but also to the interests of others. Have this mind among yourselves, which is yours in Christ Jesus, who though he was in the form of God, did not count equality with God a thing to be grasped, but made himself nothing, taking the form of a servant, being born in the likeness of men. And being found in human form, he humbled himself by becoming obedient to the point of death, even death on a cross. Therefore God has highly exalted him and bestowed on him the name that is above every name" Philippians 2:4-9 (ESV).
Yes, Jesus loves us, and He understands our journey on earth.
And the Word (Jesus) became flesh and dwelt among us, and we have seen his glory, glory as of the only Son from the Father, full of grace and truth - John 1:14 (ESV). Jesus left the splendor of Heaven knowing His destiny - that is love! I wonder how I would have felt if I was living during the time of Jesus' time on earth? Imagine walking alongside of Him; hearing His voice live; having eye contact and touching Him. However, I can't imagine witnessing His death on the cross. Praise God - He is Alive!
Will you receive His love without performing or doing anything you can do for Him? Try to envision God's love for you out of sheer joy over your presence with Him. He loves you, desires you, values you, and is emotionally attached to you. God is all- powerful, the King of Kings and Lord of Lords, and worthy to be praised!
Merry Christmas!
Pat Spies
Women's Ministry Volunteer
DIGGING DEEPER
James 5:16b The prayer of a righteous person has great power as it is working (ESV). The effective, fervent prayer of a righteous man avails much (NKJV). The prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective (NIV). The earnest (heartfelt, continued) prayer of a righteous man makes tremendous power available [dynamic in its working] (Amplified).
Wednesday, December 21, 2011
IT'S THE MOST WONDERFUL TIME OF THE YEAR
Or so the popular Andy Williams song goes. The lyrics talk about the joys of shopping (although did you know that online shopping has increased by over 17% just this year?) I, on the other hand, do love to be in the mall one day, just to capture all those special Christmas joys - huge crowds, even "huger" lines at the cashiers, rude customers, even "ruder" sales people, being cut off or followed to my parking space in the lot by at least 5 people wanting my spot, etc., etc. You know - all of the things that spell Christmas for so many people at this time of year.
But concentrate on the words - "it's the most WONDERFUL time of the year. It's the time when the WONDER of God's love for me as a sinner, thinking I was basically a "good" person, shot through all of my defenses and left me as I was - fallen, cut off from God, living a lie and thinking that all the good things I was doing were going to be enough to cover my pathetic state when I came to stand before a righteous God trying to "explain" why I had rejected the most WONDERFUL gift of all.
Look at what the Bible says in Isaiah 9:6, "For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given; and the government shall be upon his shoulder: and his name shall be called WONDERFUL. . ." There's that word again - "wonderful." Not just a description of the season we are in, but the very name of Christ Himself, Wonderful.
So as you do whatever it is you do at this time of year to ready yourself for the birth of our WONDERFUL Saviour and Lord, remember the words to the song, "It's the most wonderful time of the year," because Jesus Christ IS Wonderful and it is He who brings the season of Wonder to us, not only at Christmas but every day of our lives.
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 5:16b The prayer of a righteous person has great power as it is working (ESV). The effective, fervent prayer of a righteous man avails much (NKJV). The prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective (NIV). The earnest (heartfelt, continued) prayer of a righteous man makes tremendous power available [dynamic in its working] (Amplified).
But concentrate on the words - "it's the most WONDERFUL time of the year. It's the time when the WONDER of God's love for me as a sinner, thinking I was basically a "good" person, shot through all of my defenses and left me as I was - fallen, cut off from God, living a lie and thinking that all the good things I was doing were going to be enough to cover my pathetic state when I came to stand before a righteous God trying to "explain" why I had rejected the most WONDERFUL gift of all.
Look at what the Bible says in Isaiah 9:6, "For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given; and the government shall be upon his shoulder: and his name shall be called WONDERFUL. . ." There's that word again - "wonderful." Not just a description of the season we are in, but the very name of Christ Himself, Wonderful.
So as you do whatever it is you do at this time of year to ready yourself for the birth of our WONDERFUL Saviour and Lord, remember the words to the song, "It's the most wonderful time of the year," because Jesus Christ IS Wonderful and it is He who brings the season of Wonder to us, not only at Christmas but every day of our lives.
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 5:16b The prayer of a righteous person has great power as it is working (ESV). The effective, fervent prayer of a righteous man avails much (NKJV). The prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective (NIV). The earnest (heartfelt, continued) prayer of a righteous man makes tremendous power available [dynamic in its working] (Amplified).
Tuesday, December 20, 2011
Silent Night
"For with thee is the fountain of life: in thy light shall we see light" Psalm 36:9.
At this time of year many songs are heard of the Christmas season and the birth of Christ. I have, for as long as I can remember, sung this song and have not enjoyed the true context of the words. The song that is profound to my heart is "Silent Night." The words are insightful to the accurate meaning of this season. At this busy season, let's take a moment to have a silent night.
It's good to realize, all is calm and bright, and a child from a virgin mother is born, a seed of the woman; the word of God. The infant is Holy, tender and mild; it's beautiful to ruminate in heavenly peace. It had to have been an amazing sight the shepherds quaked. Many activities in heaven were taking place: hosts were singing and glories streams from afar. Even the sky is lending its light and angels sing. God's love in pure light and redeeming grace for the world, a Savior is born! God in magnificent greatness sends His Son to be born for me. Accepting the Son of God, I can be forgiven of my sin, and the Holy Spirit is always with me. God has given me a perfect gift.
Silent Night, Holy Night,
All is calm, all is bright
'Round yon virgin mother and child,
Holy infant so tender and mild
Sleep in heavenly peace.
Silent night, Holy night,
Shepherds quake at the sight,
Glories stream from heaven afar;
Heavenly hosts sing alleluia.
Christ the Savior is born.
Silent night, Holy night,
Wondrous star, lend thy light.
With the angels let us sing
Alleluia to our King,
Christ the Savior is born.
Silent night, Holy night,
Son of God, love's pure light
Radiant beams from Thy holy face,
With the dawn of redeeming grace,
Jesus, Lord, at Thy birth.
Glory to God!
Sandra Roman
Staff Member - WOC Graduate
DIGGING DEEPER
James 5:16b The prayer of a righteous person has great power as it is working (ESV). The effective, fervent prayer of a righteous man avails much (NKJV). The prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective (NIV). The earnest (heartfelt, continued) prayer of a righteous man makes tremendous power available [dynamic in its working] (Amplified).
At this time of year many songs are heard of the Christmas season and the birth of Christ. I have, for as long as I can remember, sung this song and have not enjoyed the true context of the words. The song that is profound to my heart is "Silent Night." The words are insightful to the accurate meaning of this season. At this busy season, let's take a moment to have a silent night.
It's good to realize, all is calm and bright, and a child from a virgin mother is born, a seed of the woman; the word of God. The infant is Holy, tender and mild; it's beautiful to ruminate in heavenly peace. It had to have been an amazing sight the shepherds quaked. Many activities in heaven were taking place: hosts were singing and glories streams from afar. Even the sky is lending its light and angels sing. God's love in pure light and redeeming grace for the world, a Savior is born! God in magnificent greatness sends His Son to be born for me. Accepting the Son of God, I can be forgiven of my sin, and the Holy Spirit is always with me. God has given me a perfect gift.
Silent Night, Holy Night,
All is calm, all is bright
'Round yon virgin mother and child,
Holy infant so tender and mild
Sleep in heavenly peace.
Silent night, Holy night,
Shepherds quake at the sight,
Glories stream from heaven afar;
Heavenly hosts sing alleluia.
Christ the Savior is born.
Silent night, Holy night,
Wondrous star, lend thy light.
With the angels let us sing
Alleluia to our King,
Christ the Savior is born.
Silent night, Holy night,
Son of God, love's pure light
Radiant beams from Thy holy face,
With the dawn of redeeming grace,
Jesus, Lord, at Thy birth.
Glory to God!
Sandra Roman
Staff Member - WOC Graduate
DIGGING DEEPER
James 5:16b The prayer of a righteous person has great power as it is working (ESV). The effective, fervent prayer of a righteous man avails much (NKJV). The prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective (NIV). The earnest (heartfelt, continued) prayer of a righteous man makes tremendous power available [dynamic in its working] (Amplified).
Monday, December 19, 2011
Digging Deeper James 5:16b with commentary
Monday. Perhaps Mondays are difficult for you as you get back into the week to week flow - work, cleaning, cooking, putting away toys, appointments, etc. But this Monday - is just 6 days from Christmas, and as I sit here typing this listening to Christmas music, I am very aware that I still have quite a bit to do. You too? The temptation is to be focused on getting everything done while losing sight of the Redeemer, born to die for you and for me. Please take time this week to sit a spell with the Savior. Worship Him. You don't even have to talk!!!!
We are closing in on the last few verses of James. This week we are reminded of the awesome power of prayer.
James 5:16b The prayer of a righteous person has great power as it is working (ESV). The effective, fervent prayer of a righteous man avails much (NKJV). The prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective (NIV). The earnest (heartfelt, continued) prayer of a righteous man makes tremendous power available [dynamic in its working](Amplified).
Commentary
"The effective...avails much. The energetic, passionate prayers of godly people have the power to accomplish much." [The MacArthur Bible Commentary by John MacArthur pg. 1897]
Fervent means "exhibiting or marked by great intensity of feeling" (http://www.merriam-webster.com)
"The great advantage and efficacy of prayer are declared and proved. ... He who prays must be a righteous man. The prayer itself must be a fervent, in-wrought, well-wrought prayer. Such prayer avails much. It is a great advantage to ourselves, it may be very beneficial to our friends, and we are assured its being acceptable to God." [Matthew Henry's Commentary in One Volume by Matthew Henry pg. 1938]
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.
Footnotes:
a. James 5:16 Or The effective prayer of a righteous person has great power
Cross references:
A. James 5:16 : Acts 19:18
B. James 5:16 : Heb 12:13
C. James 5:16 : Gen 18:23-32; 20:17; Num 11:2; 1 Kgs 13:6; 17:22; 2 Kgs 4:33; 19:15-20; 20:2-5; Job 42:8; Prov 15:29
We are closing in on the last few verses of James. This week we are reminded of the awesome power of prayer.
James 5:16b The prayer of a righteous person has great power as it is working (ESV). The effective, fervent prayer of a righteous man avails much (NKJV). The prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective (NIV). The earnest (heartfelt, continued) prayer of a righteous man makes tremendous power available [dynamic in its working](Amplified).
Commentary
"The effective...avails much. The energetic, passionate prayers of godly people have the power to accomplish much." [The MacArthur Bible Commentary by John MacArthur pg. 1897]
Fervent means "exhibiting or marked by great intensity of feeling" (http://www.merriam-webster.com)
"The great advantage and efficacy of prayer are declared and proved. ... He who prays must be a righteous man. The prayer itself must be a fervent, in-wrought, well-wrought prayer. Such prayer avails much. It is a great advantage to ourselves, it may be very beneficial to our friends, and we are assured its being acceptable to God." [Matthew Henry's Commentary in One Volume by Matthew Henry pg. 1938]
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.
Footnotes:
a. James 5:16 Or The effective prayer of a righteous person has great power
Cross references:
A. James 5:16 : Acts 19:18
B. James 5:16 : Heb 12:13
C. James 5:16 : Gen 18:23-32; 20:17; Num 11:2; 1 Kgs 13:6; 17:22; 2 Kgs 4:33; 19:15-20; 20:2-5; Job 42:8; Prov 15:29
Friday, December 16, 2011
Digging Deeper James 5:16a with Points to Ponder
Friday. Can't be Friday already, can it? Just one week until Christmas - I trust that in the midst of your Christ-mas preparations, you have stopped to adore The Baby born in Bethlehem that died on Calvary to save you and me. If you have not, would you make a commitment to do that today before your head hits the pillow tonight? Just take a few minutes to ponder the Christ child and the true meaning of Christ-mas.
This week we have been pondering James 16:
James 5:16a Therefore, confess your sins to one another and pray for one another, that you may be healed.
Points to Ponder
Confession is not easy because it requires humility to admit our sin, our offense against God and perhaps others. I find it difficult enough to confess my sins to God (Who already knows them) but it is even more difficult to confess my sins to someone else. But when I do, I find it very disheartening when others take my confession so lightly. Often times, the other person minimizes what I'm saying as if it is a minor thing - this sin of mine. My experience has been that people are not comfortable with transparency.
I think we are so uncomfortable with sin and the appropriate guilt feelings that accompany sin that we are quick to dismiss it so the person can stop feeling so badly. We do a great disservice in so doing. It does not help that person to have their confession taken lightly. When God has brought conviction on a person and that person confesses their sins to another (us) we need to love that person enough to listen, really listen, maybe even asking some questions to help them know we care. We also need to take time to pray with them and for them.
In the hustle and bustle of the season, let us not rush past people who want to know someone cares enough to stop and listen, to love them with the gospel of Jesus Christ who offers forgiveness and cleansing from all sin for those who believe.
Happy Friday and have a wonderful weekend -
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.
This week we have been pondering James 16:
James 5:16a Therefore, confess your sins to one another and pray for one another, that you may be healed.
Points to Ponder
Confession is not easy because it requires humility to admit our sin, our offense against God and perhaps others. I find it difficult enough to confess my sins to God (Who already knows them) but it is even more difficult to confess my sins to someone else. But when I do, I find it very disheartening when others take my confession so lightly. Often times, the other person minimizes what I'm saying as if it is a minor thing - this sin of mine. My experience has been that people are not comfortable with transparency.
I think we are so uncomfortable with sin and the appropriate guilt feelings that accompany sin that we are quick to dismiss it so the person can stop feeling so badly. We do a great disservice in so doing. It does not help that person to have their confession taken lightly. When God has brought conviction on a person and that person confesses their sins to another (us) we need to love that person enough to listen, really listen, maybe even asking some questions to help them know we care. We also need to take time to pray with them and for them.
In the hustle and bustle of the season, let us not rush past people who want to know someone cares enough to stop and listen, to love them with the gospel of Jesus Christ who offers forgiveness and cleansing from all sin for those who believe.
Happy Friday and have a wonderful weekend -
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, December 15, 2011
THANKFULNESS
It's not Thanksgiving as I write this - that was "over" several weeks ago, but in my heart today is a verse God gave me, Psalm 100:5, "For the Lord is good; His mercy is everlasting: and His truth endureth to all generations." I am thinking today of all of the things for which I can and should give thanks. God is good, His mercy lasts forever and His truth goes on and on and on.
In November, I had the opportunity of taking the Keswick road trip to Branson - what a blessing. Traveling across the country in a bus - some days more of a blessing than others, having time to talk and fellowship with so many others, many of them believers, but some not and the joy of being able to talk about God's love and grace for them if they only are willing to receive Jesus Christ. Lots of great shows to see - many of them honoring God and country outright, and the responses from the audiences that was so positive and joyful. And lots - and lots - of good food (and, OK, in my case, great shopping). All in all, a truly great time.
However. . .Several on the trip had colds, etc., which they were good enough to share with the rest of us, and a few days after we returned, I had an upper respiratory infection and the flu (and, yes, I got a flu shot), which kept me pretty sick for at least 10 days. My carefully prepared Thanksgiving dinner went back to the freezer, I stayed in bed for 5 days and ate a turkey pot pie for my own dinner (well, at least it was turkey!)
It would have been so easy to feel disappointed (which I was) and feel sorry for myself because I was alone, but you see, I wasn't really alone. OK, there was nobody in the house with me, but He was there and gave such a feeling of peace and calm - no rushing to make lump-free gravy, rescuing the rolls from burning and fussing because the pumpkin mousse wasn't fluffy enough. Very dear friends brought over beautiful flowers and as I sat on my porch and enjoyed their colors, I was surrounded by feelings of overwhelming thankfulness for what God was doing in my life that day.
And, again today, as I reflect on Psalm 100, I am so filled with praise and thanksgiving that I had to stop and write this. One of those things that just couldn't wait. Now, my illness was for a short time, but I know that many of you are dealing with much more serious and long-lasting issues - health, finances, loss of loved ones, and more. Just remember that at all times, not just at Thanksgiving, He is good, His mercy is everlasting and His truth endures forever. No matter what the "problem" might be, there is NOT ONE THING that He is not able to overcome and give strength and peace to see you through.
Make every day a Thanksgiving Day as you rejoice in what He has done, is doing and will continue to do in your life.
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 5:16 Therefore, confess your sins to one another and pray for one another, that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous person has great power as it is working.
In November, I had the opportunity of taking the Keswick road trip to Branson - what a blessing. Traveling across the country in a bus - some days more of a blessing than others, having time to talk and fellowship with so many others, many of them believers, but some not and the joy of being able to talk about God's love and grace for them if they only are willing to receive Jesus Christ. Lots of great shows to see - many of them honoring God and country outright, and the responses from the audiences that was so positive and joyful. And lots - and lots - of good food (and, OK, in my case, great shopping). All in all, a truly great time.
However. . .Several on the trip had colds, etc., which they were good enough to share with the rest of us, and a few days after we returned, I had an upper respiratory infection and the flu (and, yes, I got a flu shot), which kept me pretty sick for at least 10 days. My carefully prepared Thanksgiving dinner went back to the freezer, I stayed in bed for 5 days and ate a turkey pot pie for my own dinner (well, at least it was turkey!)
It would have been so easy to feel disappointed (which I was) and feel sorry for myself because I was alone, but you see, I wasn't really alone. OK, there was nobody in the house with me, but He was there and gave such a feeling of peace and calm - no rushing to make lump-free gravy, rescuing the rolls from burning and fussing because the pumpkin mousse wasn't fluffy enough. Very dear friends brought over beautiful flowers and as I sat on my porch and enjoyed their colors, I was surrounded by feelings of overwhelming thankfulness for what God was doing in my life that day.
And, again today, as I reflect on Psalm 100, I am so filled with praise and thanksgiving that I had to stop and write this. One of those things that just couldn't wait. Now, my illness was for a short time, but I know that many of you are dealing with much more serious and long-lasting issues - health, finances, loss of loved ones, and more. Just remember that at all times, not just at Thanksgiving, He is good, His mercy is everlasting and His truth endures forever. No matter what the "problem" might be, there is NOT ONE THING that He is not able to overcome and give strength and peace to see you through.
Make every day a Thanksgiving Day as you rejoice in what He has done, is doing and will continue to do in your life.
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 5:16 Therefore, confess your sins to one another and pray for one another, that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous person has great power as it is working.
Wednesday, December 14, 2011
How Wise Am I?
While reading through Proverbs I find I can see others in many of the verses. Someone else fits the description of fool, evildoer, gossiper, rebel and unwise. Do I see myself? Our approach to the Word should not be to condemn others in their actions but to examine our own hearts. I know I tire of looking at my heart and seeing all that lurks within. But this is where the rubber meets the road. This is where we learn who we are by the light of the Word that shines into our dark hidden places. As we seek to judge ourselves rather than others we need to know what the standard of a wise person looks like. Warren Wiersbe gives these descriptions of the wise:
Wise people listen to wise instruction, especially the Word of God.
Wise people fear the Lord.
Wise people associate with wise people.
Wise people preserve what they've gained and they use it.
Wise people flee from sin.
Wise people don't take unnecessary chances and experiment to see how close they can get to the precipice without falling off.
Wise people discipline their speech.
Wise people are diligent in their work.
Wise people seek to influence others to trust the Lord.
Recently, my husband shared how he had judged someone for a particular action and how, just a few short days later he did the exact same thing! I know I have been judge and jury for others, too. I have lapses in living wisely. Mr. Wiersbe's observations of a wise person should cause us to pause and examine our own hearts. It is in the light of God's Word that we see how we ALL fall short.
Today may we be doers of the Word and not just hearers so that we may practice wise living.
Blessings,
Kathy
Kathy's on staff at America's KESWICK in the Development Department. Kathy has been married to her husband Dave for 26 years. They have two adult children. Kathy is active in her local church and has previously served as a Teaching Director for Community Bible Study. Her passion is to encourage women to deepen their walk with Jesus Christ by finding and living out the truths of God's Word.
DIGGING DEEPER
James 5:16
Therefore, confess your sins to one another and pray for one another, that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous person has great power as it is working.
Wise people listen to wise instruction, especially the Word of God.
Wise people fear the Lord.
Wise people associate with wise people.
Wise people preserve what they've gained and they use it.
Wise people flee from sin.
Wise people don't take unnecessary chances and experiment to see how close they can get to the precipice without falling off.
Wise people discipline their speech.
Wise people are diligent in their work.
Wise people seek to influence others to trust the Lord.
Recently, my husband shared how he had judged someone for a particular action and how, just a few short days later he did the exact same thing! I know I have been judge and jury for others, too. I have lapses in living wisely. Mr. Wiersbe's observations of a wise person should cause us to pause and examine our own hearts. It is in the light of God's Word that we see how we ALL fall short.
Today may we be doers of the Word and not just hearers so that we may practice wise living.
Blessings,
Kathy
Kathy's on staff at America's KESWICK in the Development Department. Kathy has been married to her husband Dave for 26 years. They have two adult children. Kathy is active in her local church and has previously served as a Teaching Director for Community Bible Study. Her passion is to encourage women to deepen their walk with Jesus Christ by finding and living out the truths of God's Word.
DIGGING DEEPER
James 5:16
Therefore, confess your sins to one another and pray for one another, that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous person has great power as it is working.
Tuesday, December 13, 2011
GOD! In a Manger Lay!
Well, it's that time of year again. It's Christmas!! Yea!! It's the time of year when many will celebrate the birth of the baby Jesus who was born to seek and save the lost according to the will of His Father, our Heavenly Father; the Sovereign God over all time - past, present and future.
Unfortunately, the world completely ignores that part. More often than not, many are quite content to leave Jesus as a baby in a manger, all cute and cuddly.
I'm writing this Victory Call to remind each one of my believing, Christ-following sisters to take the baby out of the manger! Remember that the Child of Christmas is God! In all our celebrating this season let's remember that this baby, the child, born of a virgin, was and is God Himself.
Let's purpose now to keep Christ - Savior, Lord, Living Word, The Way, The Truth and The Life - as the central focus of all our Christmas busyness, for apart from Him, born, crucified and risen, there is nothing to celebrate!
Yes, almost everything around us is screaming at us, making some demand for our attention, time and energy. Nonetheless, my encouragement to you is to repeatedly say no to the noise, the hustle and bustle and draw near to God. Intentionally preach the Gospel to your own heart and soul. This is the only true meaning of Christmas!
God in the manger came to set at liberty all who were bound and taken captive by the gods of this world. He came to take the keys of death, hell and the grave that we might know Him as Savior, Redeemer, Lord! He gave us all that we would ever need for life and godliness!
The great condescension, the Almighty stooping to become a tiny infant, is more than enough to bring us to our knees in worship. Our minds will never begin to comprehend or understand this and it doesn't matter! What matters is Jesus! Christ and Christ alone! Grace in a manger!
Stephanie
Stephanie Paul, wife and mother of two grown children. An "instrument of change" in the Redeemer's Hand, in the lives of wounded and hurting women. Currently serving as a part of the Addiction Recovery Team at America's Keswick as Woman of Character Program Administrator.
DIGGING DEEPER
James 5:16
Therefore, confess your sins to one another and pray for one another, that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous person has great power as it is working.
Unfortunately, the world completely ignores that part. More often than not, many are quite content to leave Jesus as a baby in a manger, all cute and cuddly.
I'm writing this Victory Call to remind each one of my believing, Christ-following sisters to take the baby out of the manger! Remember that the Child of Christmas is God! In all our celebrating this season let's remember that this baby, the child, born of a virgin, was and is God Himself.
Let's purpose now to keep Christ - Savior, Lord, Living Word, The Way, The Truth and The Life - as the central focus of all our Christmas busyness, for apart from Him, born, crucified and risen, there is nothing to celebrate!
Yes, almost everything around us is screaming at us, making some demand for our attention, time and energy. Nonetheless, my encouragement to you is to repeatedly say no to the noise, the hustle and bustle and draw near to God. Intentionally preach the Gospel to your own heart and soul. This is the only true meaning of Christmas!
God in the manger came to set at liberty all who were bound and taken captive by the gods of this world. He came to take the keys of death, hell and the grave that we might know Him as Savior, Redeemer, Lord! He gave us all that we would ever need for life and godliness!
The great condescension, the Almighty stooping to become a tiny infant, is more than enough to bring us to our knees in worship. Our minds will never begin to comprehend or understand this and it doesn't matter! What matters is Jesus! Christ and Christ alone! Grace in a manger!
Stephanie
Stephanie Paul, wife and mother of two grown children. An "instrument of change" in the Redeemer's Hand, in the lives of wounded and hurting women. Currently serving as a part of the Addiction Recovery Team at America's Keswick as Woman of Character Program Administrator.
DIGGING DEEPER
James 5:16
Therefore, confess your sins to one another and pray for one another, that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous person has great power as it is working.
Monday, December 12, 2011
Digging Deeper James 5:16a with commentary
Good morning. The year is rapidly drawing to a close, as is our journey through the book of James. I trust that you have been blessed as you have meditated on the Scripture each week. I know some of you have because you have shared with me the impact of the Word in your life. But, of course, we should not be surprised, "For the word of God is living and active, sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing to the division of soul and of spirit, of joints and of marrow, and discerning the thoughts and intentions of the heart. "i And God Himself said, "so shall my word be that goes out from my mouth; it shall not return to me empty, but it shall accomplish that which I purpose, and shall succeed in the thing for which I sent it."ii Be blessed as you sit at His feet each day.
James 5:16a Therefore, confess your sins to one another and pray for one another, that you may be healed.
Commentary
"Christians are directed to confess their faults one to another, v. 16. The confession here required is that of Christians to one another. Where persons have injured one another. Where persons have tempted one another to sin, or have consented in the same evil actions. So far as confession is necessary to our reconciliation with such as are at variance with us, or for reparation of wrongs done to any, making our own spirits quiet and easy, so far we should be ready to confess our faults. And sometimes also it may be of good use to Christians to disclose their peculiar weaknesses and infirmities to one another. Those who make confession of their faults one to another should thereupon pray with and for one another."iii
Blessings for a great week -
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.
i Hebrews 4:12
ii Isaiah 55:11
iii Matthew Henry's Commentary in One Volume by Matthew Henry pg.1938.
James 5:16a Therefore, confess your sins to one another and pray for one another, that you may be healed.
Commentary
"Christians are directed to confess their faults one to another, v. 16. The confession here required is that of Christians to one another. Where persons have injured one another. Where persons have tempted one another to sin, or have consented in the same evil actions. So far as confession is necessary to our reconciliation with such as are at variance with us, or for reparation of wrongs done to any, making our own spirits quiet and easy, so far we should be ready to confess our faults. And sometimes also it may be of good use to Christians to disclose their peculiar weaknesses and infirmities to one another. Those who make confession of their faults one to another should thereupon pray with and for one another."iii
Blessings for a great week -
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.
i Hebrews 4:12
ii Isaiah 55:11
iii Matthew Henry's Commentary in One Volume by Matthew Henry pg.1938.
Friday, December 09, 2011
Digging Deeper James 5:15 with Points to ponder
James 5:13-15
Is anyone among you suffering? Let him pray. Is anyone cheerful? Let him sing praise. Is anyone among you sick? Let him call for the elders of the church, and let them pray over him, anointing him with oil in the name of the Lord. And the prayer of faith will save the one who is sick, and the Lord will raise him up. And if he has committed sins, he will be forgiven.
Points to ponder:
As I said on Monday, this can be a controversial passage. I am certainly not qualified to dissect the verse hermeneutically and give a definitive answer as to the true interpretation. Many scholars, much more educated than I, certainly have attempted to do so. I often say, "none of us has a corner on the truth."
But here are some thoughts.
I don't believe the passage implies that if you have enough faith you will be healed. How many people do you know that have been hurt in the midst of their suffering because someone has said, "just have faith and God will heal you" or "you are not being healed because you don't have enough faith".
I have to go back to the truth that God is sovereign and because we live in a fallen world, there will be suffering, pain and illness until He returns. Sometimes He heals, sometimes He doesn't. And because He is not just sovereign, He is also good, whichever He chooses is good, for His greatest glory and our best good.
Should we pray? Yes. Should we ask others to pray? Yes. If we are physically sick, should we pray? Yes. If we are spiritually sick, should we pray? Yes. Should we ask our church leaders (elders, pastors, ministers, etc.) to pray? Yes. If they decide to pray and anoint with oil, should we receive that? Yes, with hope and faith. If your faith is weak, trust their faith.
Don't put God in a box. You can't anyway. God is God. God is sovereign. God is good.
Be blessed today. Have a good weekend. Don't go crazy Christ-mas shopping. Take time to rest and meditate on the Christ, His coming and His purpose.
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.
Is anyone among you suffering? Let him pray. Is anyone cheerful? Let him sing praise. Is anyone among you sick? Let him call for the elders of the church, and let them pray over him, anointing him with oil in the name of the Lord. And the prayer of faith will save the one who is sick, and the Lord will raise him up. And if he has committed sins, he will be forgiven.
Points to ponder:
As I said on Monday, this can be a controversial passage. I am certainly not qualified to dissect the verse hermeneutically and give a definitive answer as to the true interpretation. Many scholars, much more educated than I, certainly have attempted to do so. I often say, "none of us has a corner on the truth."
But here are some thoughts.
I don't believe the passage implies that if you have enough faith you will be healed. How many people do you know that have been hurt in the midst of their suffering because someone has said, "just have faith and God will heal you" or "you are not being healed because you don't have enough faith".
I have to go back to the truth that God is sovereign and because we live in a fallen world, there will be suffering, pain and illness until He returns. Sometimes He heals, sometimes He doesn't. And because He is not just sovereign, He is also good, whichever He chooses is good, for His greatest glory and our best good.
Should we pray? Yes. Should we ask others to pray? Yes. If we are physically sick, should we pray? Yes. If we are spiritually sick, should we pray? Yes. Should we ask our church leaders (elders, pastors, ministers, etc.) to pray? Yes. If they decide to pray and anoint with oil, should we receive that? Yes, with hope and faith. If your faith is weak, trust their faith.
Don't put God in a box. You can't anyway. God is God. God is sovereign. God is good.
Be blessed today. Have a good weekend. Don't go crazy Christ-mas shopping. Take time to rest and meditate on the Christ, His coming and His purpose.
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, December 08, 2011
Music Soothes the Savage Beast
It was another morning when the "voices" started the moment I woke up. (Okay, they started the night before and I allowed them to continue first thing in the morning.) I could feel the weight of issues, concerns, hurt feelings, and anger before my feet even hit the floor. Just a short time later I was sitting at our Hymn Sing. Words of truth from the hymns and choruses began to replace the "voices" that were relentless hours before. Words and stanzas began to call my heart to another place; to listen to a still small voice, rather than the loud voice of the cares of this world. I just allowed the words of peace, comfort, joy and thanksgiving to wash over me. Finally, the beast of anxious emotions was quiet. Not only quiet but still and powerless. It was during these songs that I repented and got my day on the right foot.
Who or what has got your ear today? Is your mind wrapped around the words of others? If the same old things are going round and round it may help to play some music or read through a hymnal. Don't just hear the music but listen to it! Don't jump in the car and turn on the CD. Your mind will wander as you drive. Don't just read the verses but reflect on the truths that are found written within.
It must be true, at least in my case, that music soothes the savage beast but here is the full quote:
"Music hath charms to soothe a savage breast (Beast in Latin), to soften rocks, or bend a knotted oak." William Congreve - (Wiki/answers)
Music softens our hearts that have become stones and straightens out all our kinks too. Music was the tool that God used to soothe, soften and unknot my heart.
So, turn up the music!
Blessings,
Kathy
Kathy's on staff at America's KESWICK in the Development Department. Kathy has been married to her husband Dave for 26 years. They have two adult children. Kathy is active in her local church and has previously served as a Teaching Director for Community Bible Study. Her passion is to encourage women to deepen their walk with Jesus Christ by finding and living out the truths of God's Word.
DIGGING DEEPER
James 5:13-15
Is anyone among you suffering? Let him pray. Is anyone cheerful? Let him sing praise. Is anyone among you sick? Let him call for the elders of the church, and let them pray over him, anointing him with oil in the name of the Lord. And the prayer of faith will save the one who is sick, and the Lord will raise him up. And if he has committed sins, he will be forgiven.
Who or what has got your ear today? Is your mind wrapped around the words of others? If the same old things are going round and round it may help to play some music or read through a hymnal. Don't just hear the music but listen to it! Don't jump in the car and turn on the CD. Your mind will wander as you drive. Don't just read the verses but reflect on the truths that are found written within.
It must be true, at least in my case, that music soothes the savage beast but here is the full quote:
"Music hath charms to soothe a savage breast (Beast in Latin), to soften rocks, or bend a knotted oak." William Congreve - (Wiki/answers)
Music softens our hearts that have become stones and straightens out all our kinks too. Music was the tool that God used to soothe, soften and unknot my heart.
So, turn up the music!
Blessings,
Kathy
Kathy's on staff at America's KESWICK in the Development Department. Kathy has been married to her husband Dave for 26 years. They have two adult children. Kathy is active in her local church and has previously served as a Teaching Director for Community Bible Study. Her passion is to encourage women to deepen their walk with Jesus Christ by finding and living out the truths of God's Word.
DIGGING DEEPER
James 5:13-15
Is anyone among you suffering? Let him pray. Is anyone cheerful? Let him sing praise. Is anyone among you sick? Let him call for the elders of the church, and let them pray over him, anointing him with oil in the name of the Lord. And the prayer of faith will save the one who is sick, and the Lord will raise him up. And if he has committed sins, he will be forgiven.
Wednesday, December 07, 2011
In Need of Repairs
A friend was recently in a car accident. She was injured but by God's grace she walked away with her life. Her car, however, was towed away. The estimate for the damages was astonishing yet they were not high enough to total the vehicle. After six weeks the car was returned looking brand new! A few weeks later my friend commented on a sticky door latch on the side where the car was hit and repaired. Still, no one would know that the repaired door had such an issue by looking at it.
Before I came to know Christ I looked okay on the outside but I was a wreck! I was walking around not knowing the injuries I sustained by going the way of the world. When I came to Jesus I knew that my fractured relationship with my heavenly Father was healed, yet I needed a lot of work! There are days, even 23 years later, when I find it hard to believe that God the Father sees me through the lens of Jesus - perfect, whole and new. Often, more often than I care to admit, this is not how I see myself. I know where things are still out of alignment. I know where the sticky places lurk in my heart. Still, Jesus paid an astonishing price for me and He continues to tweak here and there when necessary - which is most of the time! He sees all the beauty of His handiwork in my life but He also knows what needs His attention next. As willing and able as God is to tend to the areas of my life that need His expert touch, I must be willing. I hear that rattle of grumbling in my heart but I think it will just go away by itself. I tug at the door of "loving others" and for the life of me I can't open it. What gets me is when I know something is wrong but I choose the quick fix rather than the Master's touch.
Are you in need of a touch from the Master today? He already knows how to fix it.
Kathy Withers
Kathy's on staff at America's KESWICK in the Development Department. Kathy has been married to her husband Dave for 26 years. They have two adult children. Kathy is active in her local church and has previously served as a Teaching Director for Community Bible Study. Her passion is to encourage women to deepen their walk with Jesus Christ by finding and living out the truths of God's Word.
DIGGING DEEPER
James 5:13-15
Is anyone among you suffering? Let him pray. Is anyone cheerful? Let him sing praise. Is anyone among you sick? Let him call for the elders of the church, and let them pray over him, anointing him with oil in the name of the Lord. And the prayer of faith will save the one who is sick, and the Lord will raise him up. And if he has committed sins, he will be forgiven.
Before I came to know Christ I looked okay on the outside but I was a wreck! I was walking around not knowing the injuries I sustained by going the way of the world. When I came to Jesus I knew that my fractured relationship with my heavenly Father was healed, yet I needed a lot of work! There are days, even 23 years later, when I find it hard to believe that God the Father sees me through the lens of Jesus - perfect, whole and new. Often, more often than I care to admit, this is not how I see myself. I know where things are still out of alignment. I know where the sticky places lurk in my heart. Still, Jesus paid an astonishing price for me and He continues to tweak here and there when necessary - which is most of the time! He sees all the beauty of His handiwork in my life but He also knows what needs His attention next. As willing and able as God is to tend to the areas of my life that need His expert touch, I must be willing. I hear that rattle of grumbling in my heart but I think it will just go away by itself. I tug at the door of "loving others" and for the life of me I can't open it. What gets me is when I know something is wrong but I choose the quick fix rather than the Master's touch.
Are you in need of a touch from the Master today? He already knows how to fix it.
Kathy Withers
Kathy's on staff at America's KESWICK in the Development Department. Kathy has been married to her husband Dave for 26 years. They have two adult children. Kathy is active in her local church and has previously served as a Teaching Director for Community Bible Study. Her passion is to encourage women to deepen their walk with Jesus Christ by finding and living out the truths of God's Word.
DIGGING DEEPER
James 5:13-15
Is anyone among you suffering? Let him pray. Is anyone cheerful? Let him sing praise. Is anyone among you sick? Let him call for the elders of the church, and let them pray over him, anointing him with oil in the name of the Lord. And the prayer of faith will save the one who is sick, and the Lord will raise him up. And if he has committed sins, he will be forgiven.
Tuesday, December 06, 2011
ARE YOU SHOWING YOUR "CHRISTMAS SPIRIT"?
Withhold not good from them to whom it is due, when it is in the power of thine hand to do it. (Proverbs 3:27 KJV).
I read with sadness of the man who died in the Target store on Black Friday of a major heart problem while others passed by seemingly intent on finding the desired bargain they were seeking. Isn't it ironic that their minds were so set on buying a Christmas gift that seemingly they didn't have time to respond to a need of a stranger in need?
I have noticed people seem to be swishing by me very quickly, and they seem to have cut me off without even noticing what they have done. People are very stressed and focused on their own needs without even being aware of others in their path. I feel as though they had lost the Christmas Spirit.
People speak of the Christmas Spirit. Some of us may have it all during the year, but others of us don't feel it even at the Christmas season. Perhaps a traumatic event caused us to lose the "Spirit." Perhaps a loved one died or a spouse left us with the cares of the world on our shoulders. Maybe we are hungry or just plain tired, or we just need someone to be a sounding board. If we have that wonderful feeling, we need to find those who don't have the "spirit" this year and ask ourselves how we can help. Perhaps all a discouraged friend needs is an encouraging word. We can all do that. Maybe our friend needs some Christmas music, some cookies, some groceries, or someone to show concern and pray with them. See if you can find out their heart's desire and let them know you are praying for such an event to happen.
I have been going through a little book I picked up at a used book sale. The cover states "432 things to do for yourself and others that just might make this the best Christmas ever."
Dear Jesus, please open my eyes to see the needs of others. Help me turn to You to supply my needs so that I can be available to meet others' needs, Please help me have the Christmas Spirit all year through. 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 5:13-15
Is anyone among you suffering? Let him pray. Is anyone cheerful? Let him sing praise. Is anyone among you sick? Let him call for the elders of the church, and let them pray over him, anointing him with oil in the name of the Lord. And the prayer of faith will save the one who is sick, and the Lord will raise him up. And if he has committed sins, he will be forgiven.
I read with sadness of the man who died in the Target store on Black Friday of a major heart problem while others passed by seemingly intent on finding the desired bargain they were seeking. Isn't it ironic that their minds were so set on buying a Christmas gift that seemingly they didn't have time to respond to a need of a stranger in need?
I have noticed people seem to be swishing by me very quickly, and they seem to have cut me off without even noticing what they have done. People are very stressed and focused on their own needs without even being aware of others in their path. I feel as though they had lost the Christmas Spirit.
People speak of the Christmas Spirit. Some of us may have it all during the year, but others of us don't feel it even at the Christmas season. Perhaps a traumatic event caused us to lose the "Spirit." Perhaps a loved one died or a spouse left us with the cares of the world on our shoulders. Maybe we are hungry or just plain tired, or we just need someone to be a sounding board. If we have that wonderful feeling, we need to find those who don't have the "spirit" this year and ask ourselves how we can help. Perhaps all a discouraged friend needs is an encouraging word. We can all do that. Maybe our friend needs some Christmas music, some cookies, some groceries, or someone to show concern and pray with them. See if you can find out their heart's desire and let them know you are praying for such an event to happen.
I have been going through a little book I picked up at a used book sale. The cover states "432 things to do for yourself and others that just might make this the best Christmas ever."
Dear Jesus, please open my eyes to see the needs of others. Help me turn to You to supply my needs so that I can be available to meet others' needs, Please help me have the Christmas Spirit all year through. 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 5:13-15
Is anyone among you suffering? Let him pray. Is anyone cheerful? Let him sing praise. Is anyone among you sick? Let him call for the elders of the church, and let them pray over him, anointing him with oil in the name of the Lord. And the prayer of faith will save the one who is sick, and the Lord will raise him up. And if he has committed sins, he will be forgiven.
Monday, December 05, 2011
Digging Deeper James 5:15 with commentary
Good Monday morning. I am back from my travels and see I left Victory Call in good hands and have pretty big shoes to fill. Stephanie did a great job "filling in" for me while I was away. I better be careful or I may lose my job. But seriously, I appreciate Steph's willingness to jump in last minute and cover the Victory Calls so I could go. I certainly didn't leave her an "easy" portion of Scripture to share.
Though our verse for this week is James 5:15, I have included verses 13 and 14 for context. These verses can be controversial as some would interpret them to mean spiritual sickness and others to mean physical sickness and various other differences. I think many of us are so afraid of the extremes that we fastidiously stick to the middle of the road. It might be uneventful there but it's safe. I think you know what I mean.
Would you stop and pray right now that as you meditate on this portion of Scripture this week that GOD, not Diane, not the commentators, not you, but GOD's Spirit would illumine HIS meaning of these verses to your spirit. God's word has ONE interpretation, many applications, but one true meaning. With that said, let's forge ahead.
James 5:13-15
Is anyone among you suffering? Let him pray. Is anyone cheerful? Let him sing praise. Is anyone among you sick? Let him call for the elders of the church, and let them pray over him, anointing him with oil in the name of the Lord. And the prayer of faith will save the one who is sick, and the Lord will raise him up. And if he has committed sins, he will be forgiven.
Commentary
"'sick'...can also mean 'to be weak' (even spiritually weak, as in Rom. 14:1), when used(as it is here) without any qualifiers, it usually refers to physical sickness...Some think that anointing...with oil was medicinal or sacramental...but it is best seen as a symbol representing the healing power of the Holy Spirit to come upon the sick person...In the name of the Lord means it is God, not the oil, that heals.
5:15 the prayer of faith. Not the faith of the sick person but the faith of those praying...Will save perhaps carries a double meaning here: (1) the sick person will be physically healed...and/or (2) the sick person may also experience spiritual salvation..., or growth in the blessings of salvation (sins...forgiven). As seen throughout the gospels, Jesus healed both physically and spiritually, and the same double connotation may be present here as well. James is not teaching that all illnesses will be healed if people would simply call on the elders, or try to make themselves have enough faith or pray with enough conviction. Healing, when it does come, is always a gift from God, who is sovereign over all circumstances, including sickness and health. It does not follow, therefore, that lack of faith on the part of the sick person is the reason that the sick person may not be healed..." [ESV Study Bible study notes pg. 2399]
Have a great week. In the midst of your Christ-mas preparations, remember HIM.
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.
Though our verse for this week is James 5:15, I have included verses 13 and 14 for context. These verses can be controversial as some would interpret them to mean spiritual sickness and others to mean physical sickness and various other differences. I think many of us are so afraid of the extremes that we fastidiously stick to the middle of the road. It might be uneventful there but it's safe. I think you know what I mean.
Would you stop and pray right now that as you meditate on this portion of Scripture this week that GOD, not Diane, not the commentators, not you, but GOD's Spirit would illumine HIS meaning of these verses to your spirit. God's word has ONE interpretation, many applications, but one true meaning. With that said, let's forge ahead.
James 5:13-15
Is anyone among you suffering? Let him pray. Is anyone cheerful? Let him sing praise. Is anyone among you sick? Let him call for the elders of the church, and let them pray over him, anointing him with oil in the name of the Lord. And the prayer of faith will save the one who is sick, and the Lord will raise him up. And if he has committed sins, he will be forgiven.
Commentary
"'sick'...can also mean 'to be weak' (even spiritually weak, as in Rom. 14:1), when used(as it is here) without any qualifiers, it usually refers to physical sickness...Some think that anointing...with oil was medicinal or sacramental...but it is best seen as a symbol representing the healing power of the Holy Spirit to come upon the sick person...In the name of the Lord means it is God, not the oil, that heals.
5:15 the prayer of faith. Not the faith of the sick person but the faith of those praying...Will save perhaps carries a double meaning here: (1) the sick person will be physically healed...and/or (2) the sick person may also experience spiritual salvation..., or growth in the blessings of salvation (sins...forgiven). As seen throughout the gospels, Jesus healed both physically and spiritually, and the same double connotation may be present here as well. James is not teaching that all illnesses will be healed if people would simply call on the elders, or try to make themselves have enough faith or pray with enough conviction. Healing, when it does come, is always a gift from God, who is sovereign over all circumstances, including sickness and health. It does not follow, therefore, that lack of faith on the part of the sick person is the reason that the sick person may not be healed..." [ESV Study Bible study notes pg. 2399]
Have a great week. In the midst of your Christ-mas preparations, remember HIM.
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.
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