Mid-March, 2009
I’ve always had this feeling of urgency, but I’ve always been able to calm it down and waylay the worry that goes along with it. Lately, however, I feel things moving at warp speed, and God is prodding me with his urgency stick even more than before. It’s not the most enjoyable feeling.
For one, I really have no idea what I’m doing. But, the positive side of that is God knows what He’s doing. Better that I am ignorant (to an extent) so that I don’t get in the way. But the places God is putting me…I shudder at the task. Shudder.
Amidst the trepidation, I have a weird feeling of confidence- the same confidence that also scares me into thinking I’ll let loose with my ego and become some monster. It is a delicate balance. I let the confidence be what it is, from God so that I can boldly do His will. But I beg God to hold me tighter. I am a wiggler. Too much wiggle room, and…you’ll find me miles away moping and content to wallow in my own failures. Even if they are made-up failures that only serve the purpose of giving me something to mope about.
Ugh. I’ll say it again: Ugh.
How does one go about telling the people they love…telling them something that could possibly change their lives forever? It is meant to change their lives, but I have no control over the change. Will it be for the good…or for the ‘other’? They all have choices. The way I present God’s words- I have some control over that- therefore, what if the way I speak leans people in one direction or the other?
Oh, look how much credit I give myself. As if. Seriously. We’re talking about doing God’s Will. Who is in control? God. Let’s not forget that. God can make even the most ridiculous mumbling into powerful words. Somehow. I don’t pretend to know how…I just have to make myself trust that He will. Small things with great love, right? Small things with great love.
Because I love God, I speak what He tells me to speak. Because I love the people I am speaking to, I speak what God tells me to speak. I don’t need any more motivation, well, part of me doesn’t. But the other part…she will take it wherever she can get it. Forgive me, Lord.
The lovely thing is, He will give it to me- that extra motivation, just because He loves me. It’s the whole Seek First the Kingdom of God, and all will be added unto you. To love God and do His will- when I focus on that, when I discipline myself and kick myself and punch myself and beat myself into submission- the joy on the other side- the blessings- the empty parts of me that are filling in tremendous and unexplainable ways…wow. I do not deserve this, Lord. Nor can I try to deserve it. You love me. And I don’t have words to say after that.
Thursday, March 12, 2009
Wednesday, March 11, 2009
"I want the world to turn because of love, and mercy to find each of us, doing what we can to just believe."
(I wrote this in MS Word on my husband's work laptop while my son was entrenched in some serious Thomas the Train gaming. It's odd. But it is what it is.)
Writing for the Glory of God
February, 2009
I suppose that is a rather presumptuous way to begin, but I must begin some way, and that sounds good to me. Please forgive anything harsh, brash, or in anyway rude. I aim to write what God will have me write, although I am quite sure a bit of me will be mixed in there, as well, even as I pray for my self to disappear. Please keep that in mind and search Scripture for accuracy and accountability.
The world may feel ripe for the coming of Christ. Even I glance up to the clouds every so often and sigh into the wind, wishing to see Him coming in Glory that defies description. However, we know that NOBODY knows the day or the hour. We also know that it will be a surprise- thief in the night-type stuff.
I start with that because I am quite caught up in it all at the moment. The internet is a breeding ground of conspiracy theories- some that turn out to be legit, and others that are humorous at best. I often wonder what God has to say about Christians caught up in these sorts of things. Corrupt government, martial law, poisoning food, releasing deadly viruses, creating “natural” disasters, terrorism…if one were to believe all the stuff…well, I know that is not the right state of mind for a Christian to be in. We are to think of whatever is good, lovely, pleasing…you know the verse, right?
At the same time, Jesus offers the parable of the Virgins in the book of Matthew. Five were prepared, five were not. Jesus is telling us to be prepared- but what kind of preparation are we to be doing? Clearly, it’s spiritual preparation. The world can rage around us, caught up in a hundred different chaotic events and tragedies- we, however, are readying ourselves to march into that next life. Our “real” lives.
So, we see the things going on around us. Social unrest is truly a possibility- and as Americans, we are incredibly unprepared for such chaos. As Christians, we must be ready. Preparing spiritually will prepare us for anything and everything this fallen world will throw at us.
Are you spiritually prepared for surviving in social chaos? Are you spiritually prepared to face death for Christ? Many Christians consider themselves fully equipped to deal with a tragedy. But an entire existence of suffering and squalor? Can an American Christian face the reality of living like a third world citizen- like a Haitian, or an African- not knowing when they’ll eat next, not knowing if the military coup is going to threaten their life, not knowing if the next disease is going to be the death of your entire family??? What a scary, depressing thought. Millions of people live like this every day. Americans are so far removed from that, we can’t even fathom it.
What I’m trying to say is this: Your faith, your life with God must be your only life. All other things in your life should grow out of your relationship with God. Trust Him entirely. Love Him entirely. Seek Him entirely. Only in that fortified relationship will we be able to handle what this world will throw at us. How much of your life is built on the Rock? And how much of your life will be swept away along with the sand you built it on? Will you be able to survive the torrent?
We do not think we need to cling to God. As Americans, that is our Achilles heel. We want for nothing- but we do not see our lack of need as God-given, but merely a result of our own efforts- our own wealth. We have grown accustomed to seeing our relationship with God as merely a moral guidepost and social club for like-minded folks. I am not saying that is a bad thing, but many people forget that God provides for us in all areas. He is our breath, our strength in times of trouble and in our regular day-to-day existence. We should walk with Him every day and all day. We should realize that every smile, every moment of beauty and peace is because of His great love for us. By Him and Through Him and From Him, we are blessed in all ways. We must be seeking Him with our entire lives just as He has given us His entire Spirit.
When we find ourselves totally enamored with our God, so drawn to Christ’s mercy and kindness and love- then we can live a life that will not succumb to the world’s dire future. We do not fear violence, for our God shields us from harm. We do not fear hunger, for, like the wandering Israelites, our God will provide us with food. We do not fear illness and disease, for our God heals. We do not fear homelessness or poverty, for God will fulfill our needs. Always. And even as we may suffer- be hungry, sick, injured- what is waiting for us in the end? Eternity with our God! The beginning of REAL life! When you think of it like that, when you pray to be overwhelmed with the joy of salvation and eternal life- you will have such a fortress of God around your heart and mind that nothing in this world could cause you any real grief.
Once again, I say as Americans, our faith has been stunted by our wealth. How do we shed that? It is an every day struggle, for sure. We need to change our way of thinking. “Luck favors the prepared.”- No, “God favors the faithful.”
“God helps those who help themselves.” -No, “God helps those who call upon His name.” We must embrace the truth of our situation- God is our provider, period.
And now a few more words on the current state of our world:
Jesus tells us in Matthew, chapter 24+, we will see numerous things happen around us that will trigger a response. Wars, famine, corruption and more. The world will reach a point of absolute rock-bottom morality, and we will all begin to fear the tribulation times.
Many of us will want to prepare- store up food, fortify our houses, stock up ammunition. That response, while I admit to sliding in that direction every once in a while, is not a wise one. Many will keep their eyes on the world, watching with expectant eyes, wondering how the end will unfold. I am telling you now, it is imperative that you keep your eyes on the Lord. In the Bible, and within yourself- examining and fortifying your soul. Nothing of this world will save you from the tribulation. Only by the grace of God will you endure, or better yet, will you be present for the return of our Lord.
Also, this feeling of fear that prevails in some Christians who search out this conspiracy end-times information- that is not good. We should not fear anything but the Lord. I do mean that in the reverence sort of the word, but also in the traditional sense. Why should a Christian be afraid? This life that lasts but a blink of an eye- all it’s sufferings included- we should not fear what will happen to us- especially if we are clinging to the Lord. The life that is coming to us- as scripture says, nothing can compare to the glory that will be revealed in us. We must hold on to that Truth and not let mortal fear effect us. We are children of God.
Another responsibility for us as Christians is to show the unbelieving world that Jesus is the Way, the Truth, and the Life. As the world crumbles, many people will crumble as well, losing all hope. Once again, that is not for those who bear Christ’s name. We have ALL hope, and ALL life. If we are not showing that Truth, then what will the world see? They must see Christ within us. They must see us strong, hopeful, and full of the Spirit. They will be amazed by it, and they will not be able to refute the power of God. So, for the sake of the lost world, be ready, be steadfast NOW so that when it begins to sour, Christ-in-you can be the sweetness that the downtrodden are seeking.
Writing for the Glory of God
February, 2009
I suppose that is a rather presumptuous way to begin, but I must begin some way, and that sounds good to me. Please forgive anything harsh, brash, or in anyway rude. I aim to write what God will have me write, although I am quite sure a bit of me will be mixed in there, as well, even as I pray for my self to disappear. Please keep that in mind and search Scripture for accuracy and accountability.
The world may feel ripe for the coming of Christ. Even I glance up to the clouds every so often and sigh into the wind, wishing to see Him coming in Glory that defies description. However, we know that NOBODY knows the day or the hour. We also know that it will be a surprise- thief in the night-type stuff.
I start with that because I am quite caught up in it all at the moment. The internet is a breeding ground of conspiracy theories- some that turn out to be legit, and others that are humorous at best. I often wonder what God has to say about Christians caught up in these sorts of things. Corrupt government, martial law, poisoning food, releasing deadly viruses, creating “natural” disasters, terrorism…if one were to believe all the stuff…well, I know that is not the right state of mind for a Christian to be in. We are to think of whatever is good, lovely, pleasing…you know the verse, right?
At the same time, Jesus offers the parable of the Virgins in the book of Matthew. Five were prepared, five were not. Jesus is telling us to be prepared- but what kind of preparation are we to be doing? Clearly, it’s spiritual preparation. The world can rage around us, caught up in a hundred different chaotic events and tragedies- we, however, are readying ourselves to march into that next life. Our “real” lives.
So, we see the things going on around us. Social unrest is truly a possibility- and as Americans, we are incredibly unprepared for such chaos. As Christians, we must be ready. Preparing spiritually will prepare us for anything and everything this fallen world will throw at us.
Are you spiritually prepared for surviving in social chaos? Are you spiritually prepared to face death for Christ? Many Christians consider themselves fully equipped to deal with a tragedy. But an entire existence of suffering and squalor? Can an American Christian face the reality of living like a third world citizen- like a Haitian, or an African- not knowing when they’ll eat next, not knowing if the military coup is going to threaten their life, not knowing if the next disease is going to be the death of your entire family??? What a scary, depressing thought. Millions of people live like this every day. Americans are so far removed from that, we can’t even fathom it.
What I’m trying to say is this: Your faith, your life with God must be your only life. All other things in your life should grow out of your relationship with God. Trust Him entirely. Love Him entirely. Seek Him entirely. Only in that fortified relationship will we be able to handle what this world will throw at us. How much of your life is built on the Rock? And how much of your life will be swept away along with the sand you built it on? Will you be able to survive the torrent?
We do not think we need to cling to God. As Americans, that is our Achilles heel. We want for nothing- but we do not see our lack of need as God-given, but merely a result of our own efforts- our own wealth. We have grown accustomed to seeing our relationship with God as merely a moral guidepost and social club for like-minded folks. I am not saying that is a bad thing, but many people forget that God provides for us in all areas. He is our breath, our strength in times of trouble and in our regular day-to-day existence. We should walk with Him every day and all day. We should realize that every smile, every moment of beauty and peace is because of His great love for us. By Him and Through Him and From Him, we are blessed in all ways. We must be seeking Him with our entire lives just as He has given us His entire Spirit.
When we find ourselves totally enamored with our God, so drawn to Christ’s mercy and kindness and love- then we can live a life that will not succumb to the world’s dire future. We do not fear violence, for our God shields us from harm. We do not fear hunger, for, like the wandering Israelites, our God will provide us with food. We do not fear illness and disease, for our God heals. We do not fear homelessness or poverty, for God will fulfill our needs. Always. And even as we may suffer- be hungry, sick, injured- what is waiting for us in the end? Eternity with our God! The beginning of REAL life! When you think of it like that, when you pray to be overwhelmed with the joy of salvation and eternal life- you will have such a fortress of God around your heart and mind that nothing in this world could cause you any real grief.
Once again, I say as Americans, our faith has been stunted by our wealth. How do we shed that? It is an every day struggle, for sure. We need to change our way of thinking. “Luck favors the prepared.”- No, “God favors the faithful.”
“God helps those who help themselves.” -No, “God helps those who call upon His name.” We must embrace the truth of our situation- God is our provider, period.
And now a few more words on the current state of our world:
Jesus tells us in Matthew, chapter 24+, we will see numerous things happen around us that will trigger a response. Wars, famine, corruption and more. The world will reach a point of absolute rock-bottom morality, and we will all begin to fear the tribulation times.
Many of us will want to prepare- store up food, fortify our houses, stock up ammunition. That response, while I admit to sliding in that direction every once in a while, is not a wise one. Many will keep their eyes on the world, watching with expectant eyes, wondering how the end will unfold. I am telling you now, it is imperative that you keep your eyes on the Lord. In the Bible, and within yourself- examining and fortifying your soul. Nothing of this world will save you from the tribulation. Only by the grace of God will you endure, or better yet, will you be present for the return of our Lord.
Also, this feeling of fear that prevails in some Christians who search out this conspiracy end-times information- that is not good. We should not fear anything but the Lord. I do mean that in the reverence sort of the word, but also in the traditional sense. Why should a Christian be afraid? This life that lasts but a blink of an eye- all it’s sufferings included- we should not fear what will happen to us- especially if we are clinging to the Lord. The life that is coming to us- as scripture says, nothing can compare to the glory that will be revealed in us. We must hold on to that Truth and not let mortal fear effect us. We are children of God.
Another responsibility for us as Christians is to show the unbelieving world that Jesus is the Way, the Truth, and the Life. As the world crumbles, many people will crumble as well, losing all hope. Once again, that is not for those who bear Christ’s name. We have ALL hope, and ALL life. If we are not showing that Truth, then what will the world see? They must see Christ within us. They must see us strong, hopeful, and full of the Spirit. They will be amazed by it, and they will not be able to refute the power of God. So, for the sake of the lost world, be ready, be steadfast NOW so that when it begins to sour, Christ-in-you can be the sweetness that the downtrodden are seeking.
Monday, March 9, 2009
Ready
This nation is on pause. We are all standing still, waiting, watching for the next move to be made. We continue about our lives like everything is fine, but for most of us, somewhere, deep down in that area of our soul that we don't like to listen to- we know.
What do we know? Well, I can't really tell you. All I know is that something- something is stirring. Nobody wants to believe the crazy gloom and doom conspiracy theorists that go on and on about corruption in our government and some kind of global elite that are pulling all our strings- we all know about that. Whether or not we believe they are actually controlling things- or just perhaps it is THEY who just THINK they control everything- who cares. It doesn't matter.
This entire world was spoken into existence by The One True God. He is, He was, and He will ever be. Reality is what He has made of it. Hydrogen and Oxygen combine to create water because He willed it to be so. My heart beats and sends my blood to all points within my body because He conducts every single beat. The mechanism that pushes the earth around the sun, and the moon around the earth- He is that mechanism. There is no other power that can usurp His power! God is sovereign. And He loves all of us.
But He is a perfect, Holy, just, and righteous God. And we have spat on Him and His love. We cannot even crawl into His presence flat on our faces in complete humility- No. We have gone too far.
Even still, He loves us. We break His heart, but He loves us. Do you know how much? This much- He sent His one and only Son to take our sin upon His shoulders- every disgusting, vile thought and deed- Christ died with that on His back. He suffered. He bled, He was broken. And we were made clean and right in the eyes of God. One Perfect Sacrifice. And whosoever believes in Him will not perish and be cast into an eternity of death, but will have everlasting life, with Him, in His presence- forever.
Do you believe this? And if you do- DO YOU? It's not just a switch that gets flipped into the "I believe" position and then you are free to carry about your own business. No. Your belief- your faith translates into a new way of life. Faith is action. It is trusting Jesus and what He taught- and making your life MOVE to His teachings.
No, of course it isn't easy. But neither is eating right and exercising- but it is what keeps us healthy. Living a life filled with the Spirit is not easy, but it is what keeps us ALIVE- preparing us for our ETERNAL life.
Not everyone that cries out the name of Jesus will be saved, only those who do the will of God. You can find Jesus saying that in the book of Matthew. Scary, ay? Yeah. But invigorating. We have work to do- we've been told so.
Whatever happens- disaster, war, famine, trouble like we have never seen- there is one thing that will never change. Our God. Wake up, country of mine. Wake up and see the Truth. God is calling you back. If you don't turn and answer with your entire ENTIRE life- your house will crumble in the sand. There is no dress rehearsal. There is only NOW. Seek God- do His will- worship the only One worthy. Live this life while you can.
May God be glorified forever.
What do we know? Well, I can't really tell you. All I know is that something- something is stirring. Nobody wants to believe the crazy gloom and doom conspiracy theorists that go on and on about corruption in our government and some kind of global elite that are pulling all our strings- we all know about that. Whether or not we believe they are actually controlling things- or just perhaps it is THEY who just THINK they control everything- who cares. It doesn't matter.
This entire world was spoken into existence by The One True God. He is, He was, and He will ever be. Reality is what He has made of it. Hydrogen and Oxygen combine to create water because He willed it to be so. My heart beats and sends my blood to all points within my body because He conducts every single beat. The mechanism that pushes the earth around the sun, and the moon around the earth- He is that mechanism. There is no other power that can usurp His power! God is sovereign. And He loves all of us.
But He is a perfect, Holy, just, and righteous God. And we have spat on Him and His love. We cannot even crawl into His presence flat on our faces in complete humility- No. We have gone too far.
Even still, He loves us. We break His heart, but He loves us. Do you know how much? This much- He sent His one and only Son to take our sin upon His shoulders- every disgusting, vile thought and deed- Christ died with that on His back. He suffered. He bled, He was broken. And we were made clean and right in the eyes of God. One Perfect Sacrifice. And whosoever believes in Him will not perish and be cast into an eternity of death, but will have everlasting life, with Him, in His presence- forever.
Do you believe this? And if you do- DO YOU? It's not just a switch that gets flipped into the "I believe" position and then you are free to carry about your own business. No. Your belief- your faith translates into a new way of life. Faith is action. It is trusting Jesus and what He taught- and making your life MOVE to His teachings.
No, of course it isn't easy. But neither is eating right and exercising- but it is what keeps us healthy. Living a life filled with the Spirit is not easy, but it is what keeps us ALIVE- preparing us for our ETERNAL life.
Not everyone that cries out the name of Jesus will be saved, only those who do the will of God. You can find Jesus saying that in the book of Matthew. Scary, ay? Yeah. But invigorating. We have work to do- we've been told so.
Whatever happens- disaster, war, famine, trouble like we have never seen- there is one thing that will never change. Our God. Wake up, country of mine. Wake up and see the Truth. God is calling you back. If you don't turn and answer with your entire ENTIRE life- your house will crumble in the sand. There is no dress rehearsal. There is only NOW. Seek God- do His will- worship the only One worthy. Live this life while you can.
May God be glorified forever.
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