Zechariah 4:6Then he said to me, "This is the word of the LORD to Zerubbabel: Not by might, nor by power, but by my Spirit, says the LORD of hosts.
Luke 12:22And he said to his disciples, "Therefore I tell you, do not be anxious about your life, what you will eat, nor about your body, what you will put on. 23For life is more than food, and the body more than clothing.
God doesn't use power or might to achieve His will, but rather He uses His Holy Spirit. The Spirit is what accomplishes God's will and so we shouldn't place our trust in anything else. Jesus tells us in Luke 12 that we shouldn't be anxious about our life because God provides everything we need. If we seek God and His spirit through Jesus Christ, then we will never have to worry where our next meal or clothing will be coming from.
I feel like God is trying to drill this into my heart and brain. I need to trust in Him. I need to know that it is only by the power of His spirit that His will is accomplished. Is the Holy Spirit in me? Am I abiding in Jesus? I think I'm trying really hard to do so, but I'm missing something. I'm somehow holding something back. I think I am still anxious in my core. On the outside I seem together and calm, but in the inside, I'm doubting and worrying. As I take a step back and look at my life from an outside perspective, I see the bigger picture. My life is greatly (almost unfairly) blessed. I am healthy, young, married to a wonderful, handsome, God-fearing man, a mother of a healthy, cute baby boy, living in the most beautiful place in the world, eating abundantly everyday, sleeping in a comfortable, safe place every night, and surrounded by encouraging and loving family and friends. Who could ask for more? Who could call that struggling or scraping by? No way! God has been so gracious and good to me. I need to have faith in Him. He has never forsaken me.
Heavenly Father, I thank You for Your lovingkindness. Forgive me for trusting in power, strength, and man. Lord, I repent and place all my faith and trust in You. I ask that You would fill me with Your Holy Spirit and that Your Spirit would move mightily in my life. Lord, I believe Your will is good. Keep me close to You. I love You, Lord. I ask that my heart be in the right place and that I would stop worrying and being anxious. In the name of Jesus I pray, Amen.
Tuesday, September 29, 2009
Monday, September 28, 2009
Asking
Luke 11:10-13
10 For everyone who asks receives, and the one who seeks finds, and to the one who knocks it will be opened. 11 What father among you, if his son asks for a fish, will instead of a fish give him a serpent; 12 or if he asks for an egg, will give him a scorpion? 13 If you then, who are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will the heavenly Father give the Holy Spirit to those who ask him!”
This chapter starts off with Jesus teaching the disciples how to pray. It's often referred to as the Lord's prayer. Jesus teaches them to pray to God as their Heavenly Father and then follows it with a parable about asking a neighbor for something absurd in the middle of the night. Jesus tells them that we as humans know how to give good things to each other and we are sinful and selfish. However, God is holy and desires to help us, so we must continue to ask, seek, and knock. We should keep in mind that the thing we should ask for is the Holy Spirit. God gives the Holy Spirit to whomever asks for it.
I think this is often taken out of context and I must admit, I'm tempted to take it out of context as well. I wish I could look at this and say, then I am asking God persistently for a million dollars. God desires greater gifts to give to us. He isn't concerned with how much money I have, but He wants my heart to be fully devoted to Him. He is always willing to pour out the Holy Spirit and when we are operating in the Spirit, we are blessed and walking with Jesus. Jesus is the straw that connects us to God. The Holy Spirit is what God pours out so we can be filled and from that overflow, we bless others.
Lord, I ask for Your Holy Spirit. Jesus, please take control of my life. I need You to be strong through my weakness. I ask for the Holy Spirit to be poured out in my life, right now. I ask that Your Spirit rest upon me and this family and in this house. I ask that by Your Spirit, I'll be transformed to trust You completely and walk in the exact steps You want me to take. Lord, You know our needs. The rent is due and the bills are coming at us and on paper, we don't have enough. But Lord, You are the giver of all good things. I know You are working on my heart and I surrender it to You. Lord, may the Holy Spirit overtake me completely. I want to be filled and overflowing with the Holy Spirit. Thank You, Jesus. In the name of Jesus Christ I pray, Amen.
10 For everyone who asks receives, and the one who seeks finds, and to the one who knocks it will be opened. 11 What father among you, if his son asks for a fish, will instead of a fish give him a serpent; 12 or if he asks for an egg, will give him a scorpion? 13 If you then, who are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will the heavenly Father give the Holy Spirit to those who ask him!”
This chapter starts off with Jesus teaching the disciples how to pray. It's often referred to as the Lord's prayer. Jesus teaches them to pray to God as their Heavenly Father and then follows it with a parable about asking a neighbor for something absurd in the middle of the night. Jesus tells them that we as humans know how to give good things to each other and we are sinful and selfish. However, God is holy and desires to help us, so we must continue to ask, seek, and knock. We should keep in mind that the thing we should ask for is the Holy Spirit. God gives the Holy Spirit to whomever asks for it.
I think this is often taken out of context and I must admit, I'm tempted to take it out of context as well. I wish I could look at this and say, then I am asking God persistently for a million dollars. God desires greater gifts to give to us. He isn't concerned with how much money I have, but He wants my heart to be fully devoted to Him. He is always willing to pour out the Holy Spirit and when we are operating in the Spirit, we are blessed and walking with Jesus. Jesus is the straw that connects us to God. The Holy Spirit is what God pours out so we can be filled and from that overflow, we bless others.
Lord, I ask for Your Holy Spirit. Jesus, please take control of my life. I need You to be strong through my weakness. I ask for the Holy Spirit to be poured out in my life, right now. I ask that Your Spirit rest upon me and this family and in this house. I ask that by Your Spirit, I'll be transformed to trust You completely and walk in the exact steps You want me to take. Lord, You know our needs. The rent is due and the bills are coming at us and on paper, we don't have enough. But Lord, You are the giver of all good things. I know You are working on my heart and I surrender it to You. Lord, may the Holy Spirit overtake me completely. I want to be filled and overflowing with the Holy Spirit. Thank You, Jesus. In the name of Jesus Christ I pray, Amen.
Saturday, September 26, 2009
God's will must be done
Psalm 127:1Unless the LORD builds the house,
those who build it labor in vain.
Unless the LORD watches over the city,
the watchman stays awake in vain.
2It is in vain that you rise up early
and go late to rest,
eating the bread of anxious toil;
for he gives to his beloved sleep.
Unless God it is God's will and He is doing it, then we toil in vain. We can do nothing unless God wants us to do it. His will must be done. We can work all day and night, but we will never achieve what we want if it is different from God's will. When we abide in God's will, we have rest.
As I read this psalm, it is affirmed in my mind to not worry and meddle with our finances. I know we do not have enough, but God is going to provide. It is His will for us to live here, it is His will for us to have Lion, to be involved in ministry, to love others and to live by faith in Jesus. My flesh desires to search all our monies and look for places to pull up the right amount for rent and the bills. However, I feel that God is really saying, "Wait. I will provide because my will must be done." Honestly, I feel a little foolish. I feel that way because I think to man, we must look like we are irresponsible and that we don't care about paying our rent or bills on time. I feel like Hanzo is working and working and loosing health and sleep over trying to do more for God. What I'm learning from this passage is that I must seek to do only what God wants me to do because if I'm trying to do stuff on my own, I'll just be exhausted and fruitless.
So, what is God telling me to do?
I must pray more with God. I must seek to be in His word more often. I must take care of Lion and focus on nurturing and caring for him with patience and grace. I must build relationships that bring people back to Jesus. As for the finances, I shouldn't frivolously spend. No desserts, snacks, goodies, or movies. Just wait on the Lord's provision. When support comes in, make sure we deposit it right away. Focus on how I can get started with UFirst. When God sends the money for us to get plugged in, it'll be the right time. Love and nurture Hanzo. Support his ministry and calling the best I can.
I am very tempted to ask for financial help from man. I keep thinking of asking Maui Dad, Lisa, or even my Grandparents for money. However, this is not trusting in God. Hanzo and I have asked God and His word says that He hears our petitions. He knows our needs before we even ask for them. He will answer us and His will shall be done. I need to really have confidence in God's provision. I shouldn't be like, "I have faith that God will come through, but He might come through in a small, subtle way." That attitude isn't really fearing God or having faith in Him. I need to really have confidence in God because no house will be built, nor city protected, unless God wants it to be.
Heavenly Father, I know that You love our family and that You have always provided abundantly for us. Lord, I know that You are fully aware of our needs and that You will provide for those needs. You love us and want the best for us and right now, the best for us is trusting in You with confidence and faith. I am sorry for having a weak and small faith. I'm sorry for doubting You. Lord, forgive me. I have full confidence in You. You are mighty to save. I 100% believe that You will provide every cent of what we need to pay the rent, the bills, and love on others so they get closer to Christ. Lord, we are rich because we have a relationship with Jesus. Thank You for Your son and Jesus, thank You for coming to pay the price and win the war for our souls. I love You, God. If we have nothing to pay the rent and loose this place, I know that Your will must be done and that it is the best for us. I trust in You. In Jesus' name I pray, Amen.
those who build it labor in vain.
Unless the LORD watches over the city,
the watchman stays awake in vain.
2It is in vain that you rise up early
and go late to rest,
eating the bread of anxious toil;
for he gives to his beloved sleep.
Unless God it is God's will and He is doing it, then we toil in vain. We can do nothing unless God wants us to do it. His will must be done. We can work all day and night, but we will never achieve what we want if it is different from God's will. When we abide in God's will, we have rest.
As I read this psalm, it is affirmed in my mind to not worry and meddle with our finances. I know we do not have enough, but God is going to provide. It is His will for us to live here, it is His will for us to have Lion, to be involved in ministry, to love others and to live by faith in Jesus. My flesh desires to search all our monies and look for places to pull up the right amount for rent and the bills. However, I feel that God is really saying, "Wait. I will provide because my will must be done." Honestly, I feel a little foolish. I feel that way because I think to man, we must look like we are irresponsible and that we don't care about paying our rent or bills on time. I feel like Hanzo is working and working and loosing health and sleep over trying to do more for God. What I'm learning from this passage is that I must seek to do only what God wants me to do because if I'm trying to do stuff on my own, I'll just be exhausted and fruitless.
So, what is God telling me to do?
I must pray more with God. I must seek to be in His word more often. I must take care of Lion and focus on nurturing and caring for him with patience and grace. I must build relationships that bring people back to Jesus. As for the finances, I shouldn't frivolously spend. No desserts, snacks, goodies, or movies. Just wait on the Lord's provision. When support comes in, make sure we deposit it right away. Focus on how I can get started with UFirst. When God sends the money for us to get plugged in, it'll be the right time. Love and nurture Hanzo. Support his ministry and calling the best I can.
I am very tempted to ask for financial help from man. I keep thinking of asking Maui Dad, Lisa, or even my Grandparents for money. However, this is not trusting in God. Hanzo and I have asked God and His word says that He hears our petitions. He knows our needs before we even ask for them. He will answer us and His will shall be done. I need to really have confidence in God's provision. I shouldn't be like, "I have faith that God will come through, but He might come through in a small, subtle way." That attitude isn't really fearing God or having faith in Him. I need to really have confidence in God because no house will be built, nor city protected, unless God wants it to be.
Heavenly Father, I know that You love our family and that You have always provided abundantly for us. Lord, I know that You are fully aware of our needs and that You will provide for those needs. You love us and want the best for us and right now, the best for us is trusting in You with confidence and faith. I am sorry for having a weak and small faith. I'm sorry for doubting You. Lord, forgive me. I have full confidence in You. You are mighty to save. I 100% believe that You will provide every cent of what we need to pay the rent, the bills, and love on others so they get closer to Christ. Lord, we are rich because we have a relationship with Jesus. Thank You for Your son and Jesus, thank You for coming to pay the price and win the war for our souls. I love You, God. If we have nothing to pay the rent and loose this place, I know that Your will must be done and that it is the best for us. I trust in You. In Jesus' name I pray, Amen.
Tuesday, September 22, 2009
Strengthened
Daniel 10:18Again one having the appearance of a man touched me and strengthened me. 19And he said, "O man greatly loved, fear not, peace be with you; be strong and of good courage." And as he spoke to me, I was strengthened and said, "Let my lord speak, for you have strengthened me."
An angel appears to Daniel and Daniel falls on his face, unable to speak. He felt like he was dying in the presence of this heavenly being. The angel had to touch him to strengthen him and the angel spoke encouraging words to Daniel. After this encouragement, Daniel was able to stand before this incredible being and speak with it.
Luke 5:8But when Simon Peter saw it, he fell down at Jesus’ knees, saying, "Depart from me, for I am a sinful man, O Lord." 9For he and all who were with him were astonished at the catch of fish that they had taken, 10and so also were James and John, sons of Zebedee, who were partners with Simon. And Jesus said to Simon, "Do not be afraid; from now on you will be catching men." 11And when they had brought their boats to land, they left everything and followed him.
Similar to Daniel, Simon Peter's response to Jesus' miraculous provision of fish was worship and fear. However, Jesus responds with tenderness and encouragement and this prompts Simon Peter to leave everything behind to follow Him.
I've been trying hard to focus back on God. I know that I need to work on fearing Him. God is awesome and glorious and I definitely do not pay Him the reverence He deserves. However, I think God is encouraging me today. He is telling me that fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom, but also that He wants me to be strengthened in my faith. I am so good at beating myself up, but really, that keeps me from being strengthened. Instead, I need to keep refreshing myself in the Lord. God is not distant. I need to seek His face. Because of Jesus, I can face the glory of God. I am strengthened by Jesus. If I follow Christ, I'll be close to God.
Heavenly Father, forgive me for my sins. I'm sorry for being so discouraged. Please strengthen me again today. Show me how to pursue You with a clean heart. Jesus, make me more like You. I give up my wants and desires and ask that You use me for Your purposes today. Lord, without You, I am nothing. Lord, with You, I have everything. I fear You, Lord, but I know that You call me "loved" and that You encourage me with Your touch. I love You, Lord. In the name of Jesus Christ I pray, Amen.
An angel appears to Daniel and Daniel falls on his face, unable to speak. He felt like he was dying in the presence of this heavenly being. The angel had to touch him to strengthen him and the angel spoke encouraging words to Daniel. After this encouragement, Daniel was able to stand before this incredible being and speak with it.
Luke 5:8But when Simon Peter saw it, he fell down at Jesus’ knees, saying, "Depart from me, for I am a sinful man, O Lord." 9For he and all who were with him were astonished at the catch of fish that they had taken, 10and so also were James and John, sons of Zebedee, who were partners with Simon. And Jesus said to Simon, "Do not be afraid; from now on you will be catching men." 11And when they had brought their boats to land, they left everything and followed him.
Similar to Daniel, Simon Peter's response to Jesus' miraculous provision of fish was worship and fear. However, Jesus responds with tenderness and encouragement and this prompts Simon Peter to leave everything behind to follow Him.
I've been trying hard to focus back on God. I know that I need to work on fearing Him. God is awesome and glorious and I definitely do not pay Him the reverence He deserves. However, I think God is encouraging me today. He is telling me that fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom, but also that He wants me to be strengthened in my faith. I am so good at beating myself up, but really, that keeps me from being strengthened. Instead, I need to keep refreshing myself in the Lord. God is not distant. I need to seek His face. Because of Jesus, I can face the glory of God. I am strengthened by Jesus. If I follow Christ, I'll be close to God.
Heavenly Father, forgive me for my sins. I'm sorry for being so discouraged. Please strengthen me again today. Show me how to pursue You with a clean heart. Jesus, make me more like You. I give up my wants and desires and ask that You use me for Your purposes today. Lord, without You, I am nothing. Lord, with You, I have everything. I fear You, Lord, but I know that You call me "loved" and that You encourage me with Your touch. I love You, Lord. In the name of Jesus Christ I pray, Amen.
Monday, September 21, 2009
A Word
Luke 4:36And they were all amazed and said to one another, "What is this word? For with authority and power he commands the unclean spirits, and they come out!"
Jesus is God's word and His power is in His words. Jesus only needs to say one word and demons must flee according to His authority. The demons know who Jesus is but they don't know Him in a personal sense and do not place their trust in Him. They fear Jesus because He has the power to destroy them.
I need to really grasp the concept of God's authority. With just a word, Jesus heals the sick, expels demons, and creates life. What a magnificent and powerful God I serve! I am realizing more and more just how little respect I actually give to God. I mean, the demons fear Him more than I do. It is grievous to me just how little I truly believe in God's power and authority. What is the word that God is speaking to me today? Listen...wait for it....listen harder, Laine....."Trust." I need to trust Him today. Especially with our finances...I need to trust Him. If this is what He is speaking to me, then really, I should live it out. What does it look like to trust God?
Lord, even though the bills need to get paid and we don't have the money in the account, I trust You. Even though the cell phone went over in minutes, I will trust You. Even though the baby cries and fusses, I will trust You. Even though we don't have a car, I will trust You. The life You have given us is so good. We need nothing. We have everything we need and then some more. You are so loving and gracious to us. Lord Jesus, I place all my cares in Your hands. Lord, I know You will come through and that Your provision is abundant. I hear Your voice and I listen. Forgive me for not trusting. Forgive me for being focused other things besides You, Jesus. I love You. You are awesome, amazing, and sovereign. I worship You alone. In Jesus' name I pray, Amen.
Jesus is God's word and His power is in His words. Jesus only needs to say one word and demons must flee according to His authority. The demons know who Jesus is but they don't know Him in a personal sense and do not place their trust in Him. They fear Jesus because He has the power to destroy them.
I need to really grasp the concept of God's authority. With just a word, Jesus heals the sick, expels demons, and creates life. What a magnificent and powerful God I serve! I am realizing more and more just how little respect I actually give to God. I mean, the demons fear Him more than I do. It is grievous to me just how little I truly believe in God's power and authority. What is the word that God is speaking to me today? Listen...wait for it....listen harder, Laine....."Trust." I need to trust Him today. Especially with our finances...I need to trust Him. If this is what He is speaking to me, then really, I should live it out. What does it look like to trust God?
Lord, even though the bills need to get paid and we don't have the money in the account, I trust You. Even though the cell phone went over in minutes, I will trust You. Even though the baby cries and fusses, I will trust You. Even though we don't have a car, I will trust You. The life You have given us is so good. We need nothing. We have everything we need and then some more. You are so loving and gracious to us. Lord Jesus, I place all my cares in Your hands. Lord, I know You will come through and that Your provision is abundant. I hear Your voice and I listen. Forgive me for not trusting. Forgive me for being focused other things besides You, Jesus. I love You. You are awesome, amazing, and sovereign. I worship You alone. In Jesus' name I pray, Amen.
Saturday, September 19, 2009
Obedient Parents
Luke 2:22And when the time came for their purification according to the Law of Moses, they brought him up to Jerusalem to present him to the Lord 23(as it is written in the Law of the Lord, "Every male who first opens the womb shall be called holy to the Lord") 24and to offer a sacrifice according to what is said in the Law of the Lord, "a pair of turtledoves, or two young pigeons."
God chose Joseph and Mary because He knew they would be obedient. He entrusted them with such a precious gift, the Christ, the Messiah. Jesus was just a newborn baby, but He was in good hands because His Heavenly Father had chosen two humble and obedient servants to raise Jesus in the pious way. Mary and Joseph took Jesus to be purified according to the Law of Moses even though they were people of meager means. They could have felt "special" and above the law because they were chosen for such a task. However, their selection by God to raise the Messiah, prompted them to take their obedience even more seriously.
I want to be a parent submitted to God. I feel like I am on the verge of rebelling again. I look at Mary and Joseph's example and I see that they did all that the Lord commanded them. They took God's word seriously. I think I'm not so serious about God's word. I admit, I sin by taking what He says lightly. I often find myself pushing my boundaries and limits. If I want to live a radical life for God, I need to change my way of thinking. I need to understand that God is serious and not just take His grace for granted. I keep having areas in my heart that need to be removed and cleaned out, but when I see it, I think I still only commit half-way. I need to submit fully to Jesus. He isn't just called Jesus Christ because it's easy to remember, He is called Jesus Christ because He is my Savior and He is from God and is God. Jesus needs to be calling the shots in my life. I can't keep sinning. I can't keep my private thoughts away from the cross. I must bring it all out into His light so that I may be rid of it once and for all.
Heavenly Father, please help me to be submissive. Lord, change my heart. Transform my mind. Keep me from sinning, Lord. I feel like I'm so tempted to do what I want. I need to be a slave to Your righteousness. Lord, I want to be a parent submitted to Your best for Lion's life. Lord, You've entrusted me with such a precious gift. Please help me to keep steady on Your path. I pray all this in Jesus' name, Amen.
God chose Joseph and Mary because He knew they would be obedient. He entrusted them with such a precious gift, the Christ, the Messiah. Jesus was just a newborn baby, but He was in good hands because His Heavenly Father had chosen two humble and obedient servants to raise Jesus in the pious way. Mary and Joseph took Jesus to be purified according to the Law of Moses even though they were people of meager means. They could have felt "special" and above the law because they were chosen for such a task. However, their selection by God to raise the Messiah, prompted them to take their obedience even more seriously.
I want to be a parent submitted to God. I feel like I am on the verge of rebelling again. I look at Mary and Joseph's example and I see that they did all that the Lord commanded them. They took God's word seriously. I think I'm not so serious about God's word. I admit, I sin by taking what He says lightly. I often find myself pushing my boundaries and limits. If I want to live a radical life for God, I need to change my way of thinking. I need to understand that God is serious and not just take His grace for granted. I keep having areas in my heart that need to be removed and cleaned out, but when I see it, I think I still only commit half-way. I need to submit fully to Jesus. He isn't just called Jesus Christ because it's easy to remember, He is called Jesus Christ because He is my Savior and He is from God and is God. Jesus needs to be calling the shots in my life. I can't keep sinning. I can't keep my private thoughts away from the cross. I must bring it all out into His light so that I may be rid of it once and for all.
Heavenly Father, please help me to be submissive. Lord, change my heart. Transform my mind. Keep me from sinning, Lord. I feel like I'm so tempted to do what I want. I need to be a slave to Your righteousness. Lord, I want to be a parent submitted to Your best for Lion's life. Lord, You've entrusted me with such a precious gift. Please help me to keep steady on Your path. I pray all this in Jesus' name, Amen.
Friday, September 18, 2009
Deaf and Mute
Luke 1:20 And behold, you will be silent and unable to speak until the day that these things take place, because you did not believe my words, which will be fulfilled in their time.”
Zechariah was told by Gabriel that God had heard his prayer and was going to bless Zechariah and Elizabeth with a child. Zechariah did not believe the angel. He wasn't sure how that would be possible since he and his wife were both advanced in their years. Then Zechariah became a deaf and mute until all that the angel had spoken had come to pass.
I think I knew that Zechariah was mute, but I didn't realize he was deaf too. Now it makes sense why it was so amazing that he wanted to call the baby John just as Elizabeth also said that the baby would be called John. I'm seeing a lesson to be learned here from Zechariah. When we doubt God, it makes us deaf and mute. We are unable to hear properly and speak or communicate properly. But God's grace releases us from these strongholds. Am I deaf or mute right now in my Christian walk? Am I like Zechariah where I am doubting God or failing to hear and speak to Him? I think so. I think I need to repent. Truly repent. I've been allowing things in my thought life to distract me. I want to get refocused on God. It's so scary how fast I get sidetracked. I think that the reason why I am having trouble speaking to God is because I'm doubting His word. I need to desire to get right with God.
Heavenly Father, help me to return to You with all of my heart. I see now that I am deaf and mute. Release me from this and reopen the lines of communication with You. Lord, forgive me for my sins. Make me desire holiness. Change me drastically. I love You. I want to be more in love with You. May I be completely obsessed with You, Lord. Cleanse me and purify me. I pray all this in Jesus' name, Amen.
Zechariah was told by Gabriel that God had heard his prayer and was going to bless Zechariah and Elizabeth with a child. Zechariah did not believe the angel. He wasn't sure how that would be possible since he and his wife were both advanced in their years. Then Zechariah became a deaf and mute until all that the angel had spoken had come to pass.
I think I knew that Zechariah was mute, but I didn't realize he was deaf too. Now it makes sense why it was so amazing that he wanted to call the baby John just as Elizabeth also said that the baby would be called John. I'm seeing a lesson to be learned here from Zechariah. When we doubt God, it makes us deaf and mute. We are unable to hear properly and speak or communicate properly. But God's grace releases us from these strongholds. Am I deaf or mute right now in my Christian walk? Am I like Zechariah where I am doubting God or failing to hear and speak to Him? I think so. I think I need to repent. Truly repent. I've been allowing things in my thought life to distract me. I want to get refocused on God. It's so scary how fast I get sidetracked. I think that the reason why I am having trouble speaking to God is because I'm doubting His word. I need to desire to get right with God.
Heavenly Father, help me to return to You with all of my heart. I see now that I am deaf and mute. Release me from this and reopen the lines of communication with You. Lord, forgive me for my sins. Make me desire holiness. Change me drastically. I love You. I want to be more in love with You. May I be completely obsessed with You, Lord. Cleanse me and purify me. I pray all this in Jesus' name, Amen.
Tuesday, September 15, 2009
My heart check
Psalm 145:19He fulfills the desire of those who fear him;
he also hears their cry and saves them.
This scripture comes out of David's song of praise to the Lord. He says that God fulfills the desires of those who fear Him. Are these the desires of our heart? Are these good desires to have? Or is he talking about the desire that comes out of fear of God? That sounds more accurate. Just as a parent doesn't want to give a child something that they want when they are disrespectful, God will not simply bless us because we want it. He only blesses to magnify Himself. When we desire God's glory to be magnified, then He provides for that purpose. I always come back to this question...Do I really fear God? I think I am not afraid of God as much as I am of the consequences of sin. Main idea here is that God is our provider when we fear Him in a healthy way and He is also our savior when we cry out to Him out of His graciousness.
I need to fear the Lord. I keep forgetting who He truly is. I have spiritual amnesia. It's crazy. God is mighty to save. He is more than able to provide and fulfill desires. Why do I forget who I am talking to when I pray? Why do I forget to pray? I think I'm really seeing just how dry I am. I am not abiding in Jesus the way I should. I really need to repent. My heart is set on comfortable things. I am praying for things that really do not spring from my fear of God. I need to set my mind straight. Jesus is my Lord and Savior. He is worthy to be praised and be obsessed over. I'm seeing just how much I am lacking in my walk.
Heavenly Father, You are awesome and fearsome. I repent. Please forgive me for forgetting who You truly are. Make me understand You better. Lord, reveal to me Your glory and may I be forever transformed by it. Lord, I love You. I want to be more like Jesus. Lord, thank You for being so gracious. You are God of gods and King of kings. You are more than I can fathom. Lord, help me to be humble and totally obsessed with You. I pray all this in Jesus' name, Amen.
he also hears their cry and saves them.
This scripture comes out of David's song of praise to the Lord. He says that God fulfills the desires of those who fear Him. Are these the desires of our heart? Are these good desires to have? Or is he talking about the desire that comes out of fear of God? That sounds more accurate. Just as a parent doesn't want to give a child something that they want when they are disrespectful, God will not simply bless us because we want it. He only blesses to magnify Himself. When we desire God's glory to be magnified, then He provides for that purpose. I always come back to this question...Do I really fear God? I think I am not afraid of God as much as I am of the consequences of sin. Main idea here is that God is our provider when we fear Him in a healthy way and He is also our savior when we cry out to Him out of His graciousness.
I need to fear the Lord. I keep forgetting who He truly is. I have spiritual amnesia. It's crazy. God is mighty to save. He is more than able to provide and fulfill desires. Why do I forget who I am talking to when I pray? Why do I forget to pray? I think I'm really seeing just how dry I am. I am not abiding in Jesus the way I should. I really need to repent. My heart is set on comfortable things. I am praying for things that really do not spring from my fear of God. I need to set my mind straight. Jesus is my Lord and Savior. He is worthy to be praised and be obsessed over. I'm seeing just how much I am lacking in my walk.
Heavenly Father, You are awesome and fearsome. I repent. Please forgive me for forgetting who You truly are. Make me understand You better. Lord, reveal to me Your glory and may I be forever transformed by it. Lord, I love You. I want to be more like Jesus. Lord, thank You for being so gracious. You are God of gods and King of kings. You are more than I can fathom. Lord, help me to be humble and totally obsessed with You. I pray all this in Jesus' name, Amen.
Saturday, September 12, 2009
Faithful worship
Daniel 3:16 Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego answered and said to the king, "O Nebuchadnezzar, we have no need to answer you in this matter. 17If this be so, our God whom we serve is able to deliver us from the burning fiery furnace, and he will deliver us out of your hand, O king. 18But if not, be it known to you, O king, that we will not serve your gods or worship the golden image that you have set up."
King Nebuchadnezzar made an idol of gold and commanded everyone to worship it. These three Jews were faithful to worship the one, true God alone. Their response to the threat of the punishment of the furnace was that God is able to deliver them from the furnace but if He didn't then they still would only worship Him.
It turns out that God did deliver them from the furnace, but the point is that they did not know the outcome but chose to worship God alone anyway. Do I have this kind of faithful dedication to God? I don't think I'm there yet. I often allow circumstances to make me change my mind and what's worse, I often judge God's love for me if the circumstances start to change. This cannot be. Just as God was able to deliver these men from the furnace, He was able to deliver Jesus from the cross. Instead, God chose Jesus to suffer for our sins and Jesus did so willingly and lovingly. I want the kind of faith that can withstand the fire instead of always wavering at the first signs of change.
Heavenly Father, please forgive me for often changing my commitment to You when the first signs of trials appear. Lord, instill in me a steadfast faith. Keep me totally obsessed with You. Lord, I love You and want to be more in love with You. Help me to be more like Jesus today. Despite the situation, may I always be faithful to worship You alone. In the name of Jesus Christ I pray, Amen.
King Nebuchadnezzar made an idol of gold and commanded everyone to worship it. These three Jews were faithful to worship the one, true God alone. Their response to the threat of the punishment of the furnace was that God is able to deliver them from the furnace but if He didn't then they still would only worship Him.
It turns out that God did deliver them from the furnace, but the point is that they did not know the outcome but chose to worship God alone anyway. Do I have this kind of faithful dedication to God? I don't think I'm there yet. I often allow circumstances to make me change my mind and what's worse, I often judge God's love for me if the circumstances start to change. This cannot be. Just as God was able to deliver these men from the furnace, He was able to deliver Jesus from the cross. Instead, God chose Jesus to suffer for our sins and Jesus did so willingly and lovingly. I want the kind of faith that can withstand the fire instead of always wavering at the first signs of change.
Heavenly Father, please forgive me for often changing my commitment to You when the first signs of trials appear. Lord, instill in me a steadfast faith. Keep me totally obsessed with You. Lord, I love You and want to be more in love with You. Help me to be more like Jesus today. Despite the situation, may I always be faithful to worship You alone. In the name of Jesus Christ I pray, Amen.
Friday, September 11, 2009
God reveals mysteries
Daniel 2:22 & 47
22 he reveals deep and hidden things;
he knows what is in the darkness,
and the light dwells with him.
47The king answered and said to Daniel, "Truly, your God is God of gods and Lord of kings, and a revealer of mysteries, for you have been able to reveal this mystery."
King Nebuchadnezzar had a dream and wanted to know the interpretation. He decided that he would know for sure if the interpretation was correct if the interpreter could also tell him what the dream was. No one could do it. If they guessed the dream incorrectly, then surely, the king would kill them. So since no one wanted to try, the king in his anger sent out an order to kill all the wise men. When Daniel heard of this order, he took action and sought the Lord to reveal this mystery. God was faithful and revealed the dream and the interpretation to Daniel. Daniel's response to God's revelation was worship. He praised God for his might, power, sovereignty, and wisdom. Daniel gave God all the glory for the unveiling of the mystery.
The revealing of mysteries comes from God. The perception of God is that He is beyond human understanding. People tend to interpret the scripture, "My ways are higher than your ways"as an excuse for why Christians just need faith and not understanding. However, I think it is clear that God delights in revealing Himself to us. He wants us to know Him. He wants us to seek to know Him. This reminds me of when a young couple is dating. The girl loves it when the guy asks questions about her. She enjoys the fact that he wants to get to know her. She is a mystery that this guy wants to discover. It is the same with God. He puts Himself out there so that we will desire to know Him more. If there are things about God that I don't understand, I need to ask Him to reveal it to me. If I ask, then I will receive. Jesus came so that we might know the Father. Jesus' mission was to unveil the mystery of God. I don't have to have a blind faith, I can have a clear and solid understanding of my Lord and Savior.
Heavenly Father, thank You for revealing mysteries to those who seek You. I pray that I continue to seek wisdom and understanding. I love You so much and pray that I grow in my love for You. Forgive me for my sins. Change me to be more like Jesus Christ. I pray all this in Jesus' name, Amen.
22 he reveals deep and hidden things;
he knows what is in the darkness,
and the light dwells with him.
47The king answered and said to Daniel, "Truly, your God is God of gods and Lord of kings, and a revealer of mysteries, for you have been able to reveal this mystery."
King Nebuchadnezzar had a dream and wanted to know the interpretation. He decided that he would know for sure if the interpretation was correct if the interpreter could also tell him what the dream was. No one could do it. If they guessed the dream incorrectly, then surely, the king would kill them. So since no one wanted to try, the king in his anger sent out an order to kill all the wise men. When Daniel heard of this order, he took action and sought the Lord to reveal this mystery. God was faithful and revealed the dream and the interpretation to Daniel. Daniel's response to God's revelation was worship. He praised God for his might, power, sovereignty, and wisdom. Daniel gave God all the glory for the unveiling of the mystery.
The revealing of mysteries comes from God. The perception of God is that He is beyond human understanding. People tend to interpret the scripture, "My ways are higher than your ways"as an excuse for why Christians just need faith and not understanding. However, I think it is clear that God delights in revealing Himself to us. He wants us to know Him. He wants us to seek to know Him. This reminds me of when a young couple is dating. The girl loves it when the guy asks questions about her. She enjoys the fact that he wants to get to know her. She is a mystery that this guy wants to discover. It is the same with God. He puts Himself out there so that we will desire to know Him more. If there are things about God that I don't understand, I need to ask Him to reveal it to me. If I ask, then I will receive. Jesus came so that we might know the Father. Jesus' mission was to unveil the mystery of God. I don't have to have a blind faith, I can have a clear and solid understanding of my Lord and Savior.
Heavenly Father, thank You for revealing mysteries to those who seek You. I pray that I continue to seek wisdom and understanding. I love You so much and pray that I grow in my love for You. Forgive me for my sins. Change me to be more like Jesus Christ. I pray all this in Jesus' name, Amen.
Thursday, September 10, 2009
The Song of the Lamb
Revelation 15:3And they sing the song of Moses, the servant of God, and the song of the Lamb, saying,
"Great and amazing are your deeds,
O Lord God the Almighty!
Just and true are your ways,
O King of the nations!
4 Who will not fear, O Lord,
and glorify your name?
For you alone are holy.
All nations will come
and worship you,
for your righteous acts have been revealed."
In John's vision, those who have conquered the beast sang the song of Moses which is also the song of the Lamb. The ESV study bible says that this shows that the martyrs already are celebrating the victory of the Lamb. Jesus is the Lamb and worthy of full worship. In heaven, Jesus is always being glorified and praised. We should be adopting this compulsive habit while we are on earth because it is truth and power to praise the living God.
I want to memorize this song. I don't have a melody for it, but I think I need to remember how to praise the Lamb of God. He is great and amazing, just and true, holy and fearsome! Every nation will come and worship Jesus because God has made Jesus' righteousness known. God has not left us in the dark with no light to follow out of the darkness. Instead, God sent His only Son so that we can break free from the darkness and run towards the light. What amazing grace and love!
Heavenly Father, please help me to remember and memorize this song. I want to be able to bring scripture to mind right away. Help me and my household be disciplined in praising and worshiping You consistently. I love you, Lord. I pray for Your wisdom and strength today. In Jesus' name I pray, Amen.
"Great and amazing are your deeds,
O Lord God the Almighty!
Just and true are your ways,
O King of the nations!
4 Who will not fear, O Lord,
and glorify your name?
For you alone are holy.
All nations will come
and worship you,
for your righteous acts have been revealed."
In John's vision, those who have conquered the beast sang the song of Moses which is also the song of the Lamb. The ESV study bible says that this shows that the martyrs already are celebrating the victory of the Lamb. Jesus is the Lamb and worthy of full worship. In heaven, Jesus is always being glorified and praised. We should be adopting this compulsive habit while we are on earth because it is truth and power to praise the living God.
I want to memorize this song. I don't have a melody for it, but I think I need to remember how to praise the Lamb of God. He is great and amazing, just and true, holy and fearsome! Every nation will come and worship Jesus because God has made Jesus' righteousness known. God has not left us in the dark with no light to follow out of the darkness. Instead, God sent His only Son so that we can break free from the darkness and run towards the light. What amazing grace and love!
Heavenly Father, please help me to remember and memorize this song. I want to be able to bring scripture to mind right away. Help me and my household be disciplined in praising and worshiping You consistently. I love you, Lord. I pray for Your wisdom and strength today. In Jesus' name I pray, Amen.
Tuesday, September 1, 2009
Martyrs
Revelation 6:9When he opened the fifth seal, I saw under the altar the souls of those who had been slain for the word of God and for the witness they had borne. 10They cried out with a loud voice, "O Sovereign Lord, holy and true, how long before you will judge and avenge our blood on those who dwell on the earth?" 11Then they were each given a white robe and told to rest a little longer, until the number of their fellow servants and their brothers should be complete, who were to be killed as they themselves had been.
In John's vision, the seals on the scroll are being broken open, one by one. After the four horsemen appear, the fifth seal prompts the souls of martyrs to cry out. They are then each given a white robe and told to rest until God's will is completed. There are other martyrs that are to join them still. God will not avenge the martyrs until all of them have been slain. Then He will pour out His full wrath upon those who killed God's servants. The life of a martyr is considered a pure and acceptable sacrifice.
This passage indicates two things: people are still to be slain for Jesus up until the end times and those who give their very lives for Jesus' glory remain in a holy rest under the altar of God. Although life on earth must have ended tortuously for these servants of God, they have a certain resting place and purpose in God's kingdom. God will avenge His slain servants. He will not hold back when the time comes to punish those who have killed His servants. What I must ask myself is, am I willing to give my very life for God? I think that I am selfish, still, in the giving away of my life. It is easy to say, "Let me die so that I don't have to go on living." But it is harder to say, "I'll keep living for God's purposes until it kills me." I need to change my mindset to the latter. God isn't pleased by people dying. He is pleased by people living to glorify and serve Him and when those people are hurt or killed, He gets angry. It just dawned on me that suicide is also a form of hurting God's servant. Anyways, I truly need to renew my mind on this. I need to be willing to be pure for God's glory and know that if any persecution happens to me, God will avenge me.
Heavenly Father, thank You for being a just and Holy God. Father, I ask that You forgive me of my sins and make me acceptable in Your sight according to the blood of Jesus Christ. Lord Jesus, help me to live for You completely. May I stop being selfish with my life and go completely overboard to live for Your glory. I love You. Please make me more in love with You. Please heal me from this sickness and also protect Lion from getting it. I pray all this in Jesus' name, Amen.
In John's vision, the seals on the scroll are being broken open, one by one. After the four horsemen appear, the fifth seal prompts the souls of martyrs to cry out. They are then each given a white robe and told to rest until God's will is completed. There are other martyrs that are to join them still. God will not avenge the martyrs until all of them have been slain. Then He will pour out His full wrath upon those who killed God's servants. The life of a martyr is considered a pure and acceptable sacrifice.
This passage indicates two things: people are still to be slain for Jesus up until the end times and those who give their very lives for Jesus' glory remain in a holy rest under the altar of God. Although life on earth must have ended tortuously for these servants of God, they have a certain resting place and purpose in God's kingdom. God will avenge His slain servants. He will not hold back when the time comes to punish those who have killed His servants. What I must ask myself is, am I willing to give my very life for God? I think that I am selfish, still, in the giving away of my life. It is easy to say, "Let me die so that I don't have to go on living." But it is harder to say, "I'll keep living for God's purposes until it kills me." I need to change my mindset to the latter. God isn't pleased by people dying. He is pleased by people living to glorify and serve Him and when those people are hurt or killed, He gets angry. It just dawned on me that suicide is also a form of hurting God's servant. Anyways, I truly need to renew my mind on this. I need to be willing to be pure for God's glory and know that if any persecution happens to me, God will avenge me.
Heavenly Father, thank You for being a just and Holy God. Father, I ask that You forgive me of my sins and make me acceptable in Your sight according to the blood of Jesus Christ. Lord Jesus, help me to live for You completely. May I stop being selfish with my life and go completely overboard to live for Your glory. I love You. Please make me more in love with You. Please heal me from this sickness and also protect Lion from getting it. I pray all this in Jesus' name, Amen.
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