Extravagant Worship

"While (Jesus) was in Bethany, reclining at a table in the home of a man known as Simon the Leper, 

a woman came with an alabaster jar

 of very expensive perfume, made of pure nard.

She broke the jar and

 poured the perfume on his head.

Some of those present were saying indignantly to one another, 'Why this waste of perfume?

It could have been sold for more than a year's wages

and the money given to the poor.'

And they rebuked her harshly.

'Leave her alone,' said Jesus.

'Why are you bothering her?  

She has done a beautiful thing to me.

The poor you will always have with you,

and you can help them any time you want.

  But you will not always have me.

She did what she could

She poured perfume on my body beforehand

to prepare for my burial.

I tell you the truth,

wherever the gospel is preached throughout the world,

what she has done will also be told,

in memory of her.'"

Mark 14:3-9

It seemed like a waste.  Many needy people could have been fed with the money brought in from the selling of that one jar of top-of-the-line perfume.  Instead, the selfish woman poured it on the head of Jesus.  How could she?  There was so much good that could have come from the donation of that pure nard.  It was too late now.  The opportunity was gone for the sake of one extravagant moment.

Oswald Chambers noticed that Jesus is all about relationships.  His bond with His Father was the most important focus of His life.  In the same way, Mr. Chambers says it's as if Jesus is saying to us, "Don't rejoice in successful service, but rejoice because you are rightly related to Me.  The snare in Christian work is to rejoice in successful service, to rejoice in the fact that God has used you.  You never can measure what God will do through you if you are rightly related to Jesus Christ."

When I focus on nurturing my connection to Jesus, I see things in a different light.  Where once I thought doing practical things were vital, God turns my eyes toward seemingly hopeless acts.  When the most common-sense thing to do is to physically join in the search for a missing girl, He centers my attention of praying and encouraging.  When my daughter seems headed in the wrong direction and advice points me toward drawing a line in the sand, Jesus leads me toward forgiveness and mercy.  When it seems my husband needs a wake-up call, God shows me that what He really needs is my respect.

Paul teaches in Romans 12:1 that because of the great mercy of God which saved me from the death I deserve due to my sin, my most extravagant act of worship could be to give my life as a living sacrifice.  Setting my life apart for His use in His time through His power is the most impressive act of adoration God could receive.  

The woman with the perfume understood how to honor Jesus.  In turn, Jesus honored her act of worship because it came from a sincere heart that was fully devoted to Him.  Sacrificial love doesn't always make sense, but it touches the heart of God.

Impractical

It didn't make sense to him and seemed to be a waste of materials and time, but Noah obeyed the directive from God.  He was to build an ark whose length would span the distance of 1 1/4 football fields lying end to end while the breadth would take up about half the field's width.  This mammoth ship would nearly reach the height of a four story building when it was finished.  To Noah's mind, constructing such a sea-going vessel in the middle of dry land seemed to be highly unreasonable, but Noah cared more about obeying the God he loved than anything else.

Common sense and obedience to God do not go hand-in-hand.  One comes from the natural while the other is from the spiritual.  If I am to worship God with my life, I will have to stop relying on my own logic.  

Instead, I can, "Trust God from the bottom of your heart; don't try to figure out everything on your own.  Listen for God's voice in everything you do, everywhere you go; he's the one who will keep you on track."  (Proverbs 3:5-6 MSG)

God's path is going to look weird, irresponsible, reckless and stupid to the world.  People around me will most likely make fun of me, question my sanity or counsel me to change my mind.  If, however, it is God I aim to please, I will be empowered to continue moving toward Jesus without regard to the distracting voices all around me. (1 Corinthians 1:18-31)

If I am going to worship God with my life, then I will wholeheartedly follow His calling even when it seems unrealistic.

Wasteful

David was nothing if not exuberant in his worship of God.  Even though the LORD had struck down Uzziah when he reached out to keep the ark from falling as they transported it on an oxen-pulled cart, David realized the error of his ways in failing to follow the commands of God concerning the holy ark and recovered from his initial feelings of anger and fear at God's harsh action.  David humbled himself, understanding that he had callously transported a holy object as if it were an idol of a false god or a common item. 

In response, David made sure all the proper preparations were made and returned his heart to it's position of devotion to God.  As the ark made it's trip from the house of Obed-Edom to Jerusalem, David unceremoniously stripped himself of his kingly robes and danced before the LORD in a celebration of God Almighty.  (2 Samuel 6)

When he got back to the palace, his wife was embarrassed at this display of fervor before the LORD.  She despised him as he brought dishonor to the crown and thus to her.  She thought him vulgar and beneath herself.  

As over the top as David's worship seemed, it pleased God to see his extravagant devotion.  What his wife called over done God called just right.  

Maybe someone is telling me I'm spending too much time in prayer and study of God's word.  They're calling it a waste of time and energy.  If it's out of devotion to God, He will honor my efforts and receive it as worship.  

Perhaps God has called me to volunteer my time instead of getting a paid job.  Those around me may ridicule my efforts, calling me a fool for refusing payment.  If it's an act of worship toward God, He will honor my obedience.

It could be that I answered the call to stay at home with my children but many friends tell me I am better off in the workplace where I won't lose my skills or reputation.  If it's out of obedience to God, He will be pleased with my choice of occupation.

If I am going to worship God with my life, then I will wholeheartedly follow His calling even when it seems wasteful or over the top.

With Abandon

There she was, a young teenage woman pledged to be married to a man but shamefully pregnant.  Everywhere Mary went, gossip was not far behind.  People could be so cruel!  People she thought were her friends and even family members joined in the rumor-spreading.

Mary's heart, however, was at peace.  She magnified the Lord at all He was doing in her and through her!  What an honor, she thought, to be chosen by God for His glorious works! (Luke 1:46-55)

Mary's thoughts were not on her own predicament as an unmarried pregnant woman.  Instead, she was focused on what God was doing; bringing forth the promised Messiah!  She abandoned all thought of her own reputation, hardship and shame and chose to center her attention on the One she loved.

What is God calling me to do that strikes fear in my heart.  It could seem like it's too big a job for little ole' me.  Maybe I'm worried what people will think and say.  What if I follow God and then it fails, leaving me looking like a fool?

God desires that I abandon all thought of myself and focus only on obedience to Him.  As I give up my doubts, my fears will go away and all I will see is the Love of my life.

If I am going to worship God with my life, then I will wholeheartedly follow His calling without thought to myself or my reputation.

The woman with the alabaster jar worshiped Jesus extravagantly.  She inspires me to let go of my practical, uptight, and self-centered attitude and worship God with a sincere heart.  It is then that my obedience will be honored as beautiful and extravagant.

As I begin this day it is my prayer that I will worship God without thought to myself.

How do I worry more about what others think than what God thinks?

When do I hold myself back in living my life for God because it might be a little over the top? 

   

Solid Rock

"As he was leaving the temple,

one of his disciples said to him,

'Look, Teacher!  

What massive stone!

What magnificent buildings!'

'Do you see all these great buildings?' replied Jesus.

'Not one stone here will be left on another;

every one will be thrown down.'

Mark 13:1-2

It's hard not to be impressed by the Cathedral of Notre Dame, a 12th to 13th century example of French Gothic architecture and one of the most widely recognized Christian structures in the world.  It was one of the first buildings to use the impressive flying buttress system, allowing for the massive vaulted roof.  The building itself extends to a length of 420 feet while the two towers in front stand 226 feet high.  As if the enormity, beauty and intricate detail were not enough to drop a tourist's jaw, Notre Dame also sits on one of the most scenic spots along the Seine River, making it an impressive example of the feats of man.

The Ancient Greeks created a list of the Seven Wonders of the World which categorizes the most impressive man-made structures in their known world.  Since then, more modern versions have been created to highlight amazing feats of architecture.  Some of the common entries include the Great Wall of China, the Taj Mahal, the Egyptian Pyramids and the Roman Colosseum.

Man has always been amazed by works of their own hands.  Even in Jesus' times, His disciples were in awe of the temple that stood on the Temple Mount in Jerusalem.  Jesus put things into perspective, however, by reminding them that the temple would be destroyed, as it was by the Romans in 70 AD.  As easy as it is to put my faith in things that seem indestructible and sturdy, everything that is not based on the solid rock of Jesus will one day be turned to ashes.  (1 Corinthians 3:10-15)

I can admire and wish to emulate the lives of successful people I see on television, or even sitting in the pew beside me, but if they are not pointing me to Christ, then my focus is off.  Instead, it is my desire to base my life on Him.

Righteousness

I have heard it said more than once that the church is filled with hypocrites who are quick to point out the sin of others but slow to look inward toward their own filthy heart.  This does not make for a welcoming atmosphere.

When I think I'm pretty good in my own right, I can easily see the sins of others while ignoring what's wrong within my own life.  But when I remember my true identity; a sinner saved by grace, then I will be less likely to judge others.

Paul explained to Titus that, "he saved us, not because of his mercy.  He saved us through the washing of rebirth and renewal by the Holy Spirit, whom he poured out on us generously through Jesus Christ our Savior, so that, having been justified by his grace, we might become heirs having the hope of eternal life."  (Titus 3:5-7)

I am made right with God by the blood of Jesus, not due to anything that is within me.  As Paul goes on to say,  "For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith--and this not from yourselves, it is the gift of God--not by works, so no one can boast."  (Ephesians 2:8-9)

I can easily admire others' accomplishments, gentle spirits or tenacious attitudes, but my real foundation for righteousness comes not in trying to be what I think I should be, but in embracing my true identity.  I am a wretched sinner who is saved by the grace of God through faith in Jesus Christ.

Basing my life on the solid rock of Jesus means I will always remember that my righteousness comes from Him.

Power

"The Power of Positive Thinking"

"The Magic of Thinking Big"

"How to Attract Health, Wealth, Love and Luck into Your Life Immediately"

"The Art of Happiness"

"The Power of Now"

"The Gateway:Discover the Power to Create an Outrageously Prosperous and Happy Life"

The bookstore is chock-full of ideas of how to tap into some hidden power source to reach the life you've always wanted to live.  The books promise fulfillment, peace, happiness, ambition and new-found energy.  As much as I've tried to will myself to do better, there are always areas in which I struggle and fail. (Romans 7) I just don't have it within me to become the woman God created me to be.

When I took Jesus to be my Savior and committed my life to Him, He gave me the gift of the Holy Spirit who dwells within me.  (Acts 3:38  2 Timothy 1:14)  God's Spirit produces all kinds of fruit when I allow Him to rule my life.  (Galatians 5:22-23)  This love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self control will be evident to all those around me.  This fruit does not exist when I live by my own effort or when following my heart.  Instead, it comes when I submit my life to God and let Him lead.

The ability to live a life pleasing to God does not exist within my natural self.  Instead, it is an extension of His indwelling Spirit.  "For God did not give us a spirit of timidity, but a spirit of power, of love and of self-discipline."  (2 Timothy 1:7)  He is the source of the power to live a godly life.  

Oswald Chambers breaks it down to understandable terms, pointing out the difference between human effort and His supernatural work.  Mr. Chambers says, "It is the work that God does through us that counts, not what we do for Him."

Basing my life upon the solid rock of Jesus means the power to live a successful life pleasing to God will come from Him.

Teachings

There is nothing more gratifying than in seeing my daughters follow my teachings.  Not only am I thankful to know they were actually listening all those years, but to see them put the wisdom into action means that they have faith in me as their mother.  It is then that I know that they love me.

It is the same with Jesus who heard from a lot of people who claimed to love Him.  Jesus said that those who truly love Him will do as He says.  Those who don't obey His teachings don't really love Him.  This, Jesus said, is all according to the Father who sent Him.  (John 14:23-24)

Jesus set the bar pretty high.  He said I need to turn the other cheek, love my enemies, pray for those who persecute me, and forgive others that hurt me.  (Matthew 5)  I can't even get past my first example because it is in my nature to stand up for myself.  I've never been one to back down from a good fight!

Thankfully, He doesn't expect me to follow His teachings in my own strength.  Instead, He taught that He is, "the vine; you are the branches.  If a man remains in me and I in him, he will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing." (John 15:5)

As I read God's Word, I must take it seriously and apply it to my life.  When I come across a directive that I've neglected to employ in my own life, I can either ignore it, or put it into use.  If I'm rightly related to Jesus at the time, I will want to decide to obey Him and He will give me the ability to do so.

If, however, I've strayed from His side and am following my own lead, then I will easily pass over the directive found in the passage I just read.

Basing my life upon the solid rock of Jesus means I'll have the desire to do what He says.

There are many people, beliefs, movements or lifestyles I may admire in this life.  But basing my life on any of the above will lead to disaster.  Building my life upon the solid rock of Jesus, however, means I'll be made pure and clean by His blood, will have the power to please God, and will be given the desire and ability to follow His teachings.  In this way, I will be placing my hope on things that will last an eternity instead of building a life on things that are weak and temporary.  In the end, God's kingdom is the only thing that will last.

As I begin this day, it is my prayer that I will build my life on Jesus.

How do I get distracted by things I'm doing for God and forget about my relationship with Him?

When do I fail to take a step of faith because I think it depends on my own power?

   

Give It All

"And Jesus sat over against the treasury,

and beheld how the people cast money into the treasury;

and many that were rich cast in much.

And there came a certain poor widow,

 and she threw in two mites, which make a farthing.

And he called unto him his disciples, and say to them,

'Verily I say unto you, that this poor widow hath cast more in,

than all they which have cast into the treasury:

For all they did cast in of their abundance;

but she of your want did cast in all that she had,

even all her living.'"

Mark 12:41-44 KJV

It seemed as though all hope was lost.  Her daughter was missing.  A horrible career criminal had been arrested for her kidnapping, but the girl had yet to be found.  She was tempted to doubt.  The questions began to sting, accusing her of the unthinkable;  Maybe she's not as good a mother as they say.  She put her daughter at risk.  How is she staying so strong?  Maybe she planned this.  Maybe she's behind it all, otherwise wouldn't she be hysterical?  She's just too calm.

In a way, the widow who gave all she had is like this suffering mother.  Both knew God.  Each one was hurting in their own way but trusted God enough to believe that He would provide what they needed.  The widow sacrificed all her money, knowing that her heavenly Father would provide for her needs despite her poverty.  The mother sacrificed her privacy as she laid bare her soul in order to find her precious girl, knowing that her heavenly Father would provide protection against the cruel attacks.

Jesus honors faith made real by actions.  Just as the widow showed her belief that God would provide despite what the circumstances told her by donating her last coins, I can also give all I have.  In the same way that the mother threw her reputation aside, knowing that God would redeem her, I can forget about how I look and simply do as He says.  If God is for me, who (or what) can be against me?  (Romans 8:31)

Jesus will honor me if I can give until there's nothing left.  But where do I start?

Willingness

Anyone who has raised children knows that a parent can assign a chore but the child's attitude while carrying out the directive is directly proportional to the state of their heart.  In other words, my daughter can sweep the floor as she's been told but only if she's willing to obey will the experience be pleasant.  Otherwise, her face will scowl and she'll grudgingly do as little as possible to get by.  

My desire to give sacrificially reflects my heart.  A heart inclined toward God and pleasing Him will cheerfully comply with His calling on my life.  Fear will be vanquished as I exchange my doubts for a desire to obey my heavenly Father.  

A heart plagued with disbelief and skepticism, however, will hold back and fail to act on what it is God has placed on my heart to do.  Obedience is the last thing on my mind as my fear blows  willingness out the window.

The Apostle Paul instructed the believers at Corinth in his second letter to them that, ". . .if the willingness is there, the gift is acceptable according to what one has, not according to what he does not have." (2 Corinthians 8:12)  It doesn't matter what may or may not happen or whether or not I'm fit to accomplish the task.  If I'm willing, my gift will be received.   

To begin learning to give until there's nothing left, I must first cultivate a willing heart.

Faith

Once my heart is devoted to pleasing God and obeying Him, I'll need faith to fuel my actions.  I remember training to run a marathon.  As part of the preparation, I had to learn to bring along liquids to re-hydrate myself during the long periods of exertion.  All the conditioning in the world would mean nothing if I ran out of steam.

In the same way, I can have a great attitude and desire to do things for God, but if I don't have the faith to give me the boost I need to propel me into action, my cheerful enthusiasm will mean nothing.

A few months ago I learned of a young, single mother in our community who lost everything in a house fire.  I went to work gathering needed items to donate to this needy woman.  As I compiled the list of household goods that were considered to be immediate necessities, I expressed a desire to God to be able to furnish some of the items.  I knew we didn't have any extra money at the time, but my heart was willing to help.  

Immediately, I heard God speak to my spirit to give what I had.  I argued that I didn't have anything to give!  Then God gently instructed me to go to each closet and cupboard and take out the things on the list.  I began collecting pillows, blankets, rugs, towels and other supplies.  Soon, I had collected a few boxes full of goods.  Then I came to the kitchen where I clearly heard God tell me to give our entire set of stainless steel cookware. That didn't make any sense to me!  What would we cook on?  My desire to obey needed a belief that God would provide for our needs in order for me to be able to give up all we had to cook on.

As my faith drove me to hand over our cookware that day, I realized that God can do much with little.  Since then, our family of six has been cooking amazing meals using only a wok I found gathering dust in a dark corner and a cheap frying pan.  Doing without the nice set of pans has never been an inconvenience or hindrance.

Perhaps Oswald Chambers described faith best when he said, "Every time you venture out in the life of faith, you will find something in your common-sense circumstances that flatly contradicts your faith.  Common sense is not faith, and faith is not common sense; they stand in the relation of the natural and the spiritual. . .Faith is unutterable trust in God, trust which never dreams that He will not stand by us."

What thoughts are holding back my faith just now?  It's so easy to defeat myself before I even take a step.  Instead of talking myself out of obeying God, however, maybe it would be better for me to focus on God and His faithfulness.  I can trust Him, if only I will.

A willing heart will help me to develop a faith that won't waver in the face of overwhelming circumstances so that I can learn to give until there's nothing left.

No Limits

Possessing a willingness to obey and a faith to drive me into action will get me started on the path to giving as the widow gave.  Then, I may reach a point where the ingratitude, the criticism or the temptation to base my giving on those I judge to be deserving will cause me to question when enough is enough.  After all, how many times should I be expected to help, or assist, or offer a hand?  

There is no cap on giving.  When Jesus, being in the very form of God lowered himself from His heavenly position to come to earth as a human being, He held back nothing. (paraphrased from Philippians 2:5-11)  He gave His all, pouring out his very life in sacrifice on the cross so that I might live eternally when I take Him as my Savior.  If He as God Himself gave all he had, why would I think that I as a lowly sinner saved by God's grace think I can give any less?

I am a follower of Jesus and expect similar treatment and circumstances.  Since He is my role model, why would I want to hang onto anything when there is absolutely nothing that I can let go of that can get me closer to Jesus?  There is no human, no possession, no character trait, no ability that is able to give me what only Christ can give.  Therefore, there is no risk in letting go of all I have and all I am for His sake.  

As Paul said, ". . . whatever was to my profit I now consider loss for the sake of Christ.  What is more, I consider everything a loss compared to the surpassing greatness of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord, for whose sake I have lost all things.  I consider them rubbish, that I may gain Christ."  (Philippians 3:7-9)

If everything is garbage compared to knowing Christ, what is stopping me from giving it all away?  When I truly grasp the truth that only Christ is of value, then I will genuinely be able to offer myself as a living sacrifice.  (Romans 12:1-2)

Once I grasp the truth of the value of the cross and what Jesus did there for me, giving without limits will become as natural as breathing.

It may seem impossible that I could give like the poor widow gave, without thought to her own needs.  But anyone can give in a way that Jesus honors when by learning to cultivate a willing heart, letting God build my faith as I trust Him enough to obey, and realizing the depth of the sacrifice Jesus made for me so that I will no longer be constrained by boundaries.  Then I'll be able to give all I have and leave the rest up to God.

As I begin this day it is my prayer that I will let go of the doubt that blocks my faith.

How do I fear giving too much, afraid that I'll have nothing left for me?

When do I avoid giving because I don't want to do without?  

Image Bearer

"Then Jesus said to them, 

'Give to Caesar what is Caesar's

and to God what is God's.'

And they were amazed at him."

Mark 12:17

They were trying hard to catch Jesus saying something incriminating.  If they could only find Him tripping up, then everyone would see how phony He was.  I mean, c'mon!  The Messiah coming from the town of Nazareth, the son of a lowly carpenter?  He was supposed to be a King!  One who would rescue them from their misery!  There is no way someone so ordinary and plain could do all that.  Yes, if they could only catch Him in a lie or saying something outrageous; then they could get rid of Him for good.

Many didn't recognize the One whom God sent to save us.  Neither did they understand His mission.  Even so, He amazed people everywhere He went with His wise words, astounding miracles and never-before-seen healings.  There was no doubt that Jesus was one of a kind.

In fact, in this particular case, Jesus blew everyone out of the water with the idea that I am to give what is owed.  I need not live a life completely ignorant of or in defiance to the world around me.  Instead, I am to give what I owe.

As a woman who bears God's image, what is it in my life that I owe to God?

Desires

Nineteenth century author and philosopher Henry David Thoreau advised to, "Go confidently in the direction of your dreams.  Live the life you have imagined."  Thankfully, my life did not turn out the way I thought it would.  My dreams were so short-visioned and completely opposite of what God had for me.  In retrospect, I'd rather follow His lead any time.

The twenty-third Psalm depicts God as my shepherd, providing things I need, quieting me, supporting me and bringing comfort.  One of the most powerful pictures is of Him leading me as His sheep.  I am prone to wander, but His staff brings relief as He guides me back on the path for His name's sake.

I can follow my heart, but it will lead me to despair.  (Jeremiah 17:9)  There are many well-meaning people whose advice I could take, but only God knows the plan for my life.  (Jeremiah 29:11) My common sense tells me to do one thing, but if I I pay attention only to God I can't go wrong.  (Proverbs 3:5-6)

Since I am made in God's image, I am created to be in a close intimate relationship with God and can let Him lead me instead of trying to fabricate my own life plan.

Will

He was so distressed He felt close to death.  The sorrow and anguish ran so deeply that drops of blood formed on His skin.  "Father, I know all things are possible with you.  If there is any other way. . .but not my will, but Yours be done."  (paraphrased from Mark 14:32-36 and Luke 22:39-44)

Jesus suffered immensely at the thought of what was to come.  Even so, His uppermost desire was for His Father's will to come to pass.  Many times I'm in a different type of agony.  Maybe it's physical, or it could be emotional or even spiritual.  Whatever the misery, it can't over power God's will.  The question is, am I going to get on board, or will I be a spectator stuck on the sidelines nursing my wounds?

I have two choices in this life.  Either I do things my way, stubbornly insisting that my way is fine for me, or I do things God's way, surrendering to His sovereign plan.  Whichever path I choose, God's will is going to move forward.  The only difference is that I'll miss out on the blessing that comes with obedience.

The Apostle Paul puts it this way:  "Don't you know that when you offer yourselves to someone to obey him as slaves, you are slaves to the one whom you obey--whether you are slaves to sin, which leads to death, or to obedience, which leads to righteousness?" (Romans 6:16)  Paul goes on to explain that as a follower of Christ, I no longer am bound to sin, but have been freed from it's shackles through His blood.  Now, I am able to win the battle of the wills and yield my stubborn determination to God's control, and let Him have His way in my life.

Since I am made in God's image, I am created to bend my will to God, and let His purposes prevail in my life.

Heart

A friend of mine told me they have a saying in his homeland of Haiti that speaks to the resiliency of his people.  "As long as you still have a head, there is a chance that one day you will wear a hat."  The whole world learned of the resilient spirit of the Haitian people after the earthquake of 2010.  People did not give up despite the death and destruction that overwhelmed the rest of the world.  For some reason, the people of this tiny island nation possess strong hearts.  

Jesus said that whatever we treasure, that is where our heart will be. (Matthew 6:21)  If I value money above all things, my focus will be on wealth.  If I lose all or some of it when the stock market plummets, I will probably think my life is over.  

If it's my family that is most important to me, I would lose my mind if something horrible happened to one of my loved ones.  

If my career is the center of my life, I'll lose hope if I receive a pink slip.

If I treasure my relationship with God through faith in Jesus Christ as the most valuable part of my life, nothing will shake me.  No kidnapper could destroy my faith through their evil.  No sudden downturn in the economy could knock me off my feet.  No disaster would threaten to destroy me.  Instead, my faith will tell me that my God will supply all my needs according to His glorious riches!  (Philippians 4:19)

Since I am made in God's image, He created me to be wholeheartedly devoted to Him.

God certainly doesn't need anything from me.  But as one of His image bearers, He designed me to work best when I'm in His hands.  I can surrender my desires to Him and take on His.  I can exchange my self-centered will for His, and I can devote my heart completely to Him.  In this way, I am giving to God what is God's.

As I begin this day it is my prayer that I can devote my whole heart to Jesus.

When do I insist on getting my way, ignoring God's gentle guidance?

How do I follow my dreams instead of the Good Shepherd?

God's to Give

"They replied,'Let one of us sit

at your right and the other at your left in your glory.'

'You don't know what you are asking,' Jesus said.

'Can you drink the cup I drink

or be baptized with the baptism I am baptized with?'

'We can,' they answered.

Jesus said to them,'You will drink the cup I drink

and be baptized with the baptism I am baptized with,

but to sit at my right or left is not for me to grant.

These places belong to those

for whom they have

been prepared.'"

Mark 10:37-40

There has been much talk lately that we are living in the age of entitlement.  The younger generation seems to think they deserve things their parents had to work years to earn.  Things like a car, a house, a good paying job with benefits and a diversified investment portfolio.

For reasons that have been analyzed to death, many young adults think these are things to be expected instead of understanding that there are sacrifices to be made and years of effort to be put forth before one gets to the point of securing a new car, a nice home or a position that provides medical and dental benefits.  Instead, many think these luxuries are things that are deserved.

In some way, James and John carried this same attitude.  They had grown close to Jesus and felt that, as the Messiah and rightful King, Jesus would need trusted advisers and confidantes.  They could think of no better people than themselves to fill these positions, so they went ahead and made their pitch, as it were.  How 'bout it Jesus?  Can we sit beside you when you take the throne?

The problem was, these two over-eager disciples didn't know what they were asking.  They knew very little about Jesus' true identity and even less about His mission.  They were about to find out, but for now, they didn't have a clue.  

Still, they asked.  

There are times when I expect things I have no business anticipating.  I try to put myself in charge of how God will bless me or how He'll use me.  My desire to control my own destiny gets in the way of God's plan for my life.  If only I knew what I was really asking. . .

Honor

There is an entire industry devoted to building a desirable name for those in the public spotlight.  The more likable someone is, the more product that person can sell and the money they can make.  Interestingly, basketball player and coach John Wooden said, "Be more concerned with your character than your reputation, because your character is what you really are, while your reputation is merely what others think you are."  It's not surprising, than, that many stars and popular icons have a hard time dealing with life.  They can't separate the image of themselves from the reality.  

I naturally desire a good name for myself.  I am not a celebrity who is out to make a profit from my name, but I do want good feelings associated with my name.  When people think of me, I want them to smile or be challenged, not to grimace or smirk.  I am concerned with my own sense of honor.

If I do carry a good reputation, I want it all to reflect well upon my Lord Jesus Christ.  If people think I'm pretty good in my own strength, then I'm stealing from His good name.  Instead, I want all the honor to go to God.

When I expect honor and a good reputation in my own right, I'm not paying attention to the consequences: I'm taking credit away from Jesus who deserves it all.

Position

Many children say they would like to be the President of the United States when they grow up without understanding all the responsibilities and sacrifices that come with that job.  Mostly, they just want the title and power that comes with the office.  

It may be that I hold this same attitude with positions in God's kingdom.  Maybe I like the idea of the job better than the job itself.  Leaderships positions may seem glamorous and powerful, but there is a lot of humbling and sacrifice that comes before a believer is ready to lead other Christians.

Bible teachers encourage and challenge others with their teaching, but there is a lot of preparation and wrestling over the Word that comes as they prepare the lesson God gives them each week.

It would seem meaningful to be able to help others sort through their problems, but only those who know how to point people to the Healer can truly be effective in a counseling ministry.  

I may fantasize about a particular position in ministry, but until God has called me, He won't equip me.  Just as James and John wanted the position of being at Jesus' side but had no idea what Jesus was about to go through and that soon they would abandon their Savior to carry out His Father's plan all alone, I am prone to desire a certain place for the wrong reasons.  I could want prestige, to further God's Kingdom, or simply to add some meaning to my life.  Whatever the reason, if I don't accept a position out of direct obedience to God's calling in my life, I am taking the job for the wrong reason.      

When I expect a position without understanding the sacrifices to be made, I am just plain foolish.

Glory

We've all seen it: the two-year-old throwing a temper tantrum in the grocery store aisle.   Most of the time, a tantrum occurs when the child grows frustrated with not getting what she wants.  As she screams and carries on, her hope is to manipulate her parent or caretaker into caving into her desires.  

As embarrassing as the tantrum is for the mother, it is not only used as a tool of manipulation.  Sometimes, a fit is a cry for help.  If a child does not receive adequate love and time from his parent, he may resort to desperate means to garner that attention: even if it's negative attention.

There are times when I, too, work hard to receive accolades from those I respect, to build prestige for myself, or to crave the spotlight.  It feels good for others to recognize my hard work, commitment and love for Christ.  The problem is, when I seek glory for myself, I am stealing it from God.

My life is not my own as a follower of Christ.  As Paul said in 1 Corinthians 6:20, "For ye are bought with a price: therefore glorify God in your body, and in your spirit, which are God's." (KJV)  If my whole being belongs to Jesus, bought with His blood spilled on the cross, then I have no rights to myself.  As His chosen child, all the recognition for anything good in my life goes to God.

When I expect praise for all the things God is doing, I am forgetting that the glory is all God's to receive.

Even though I'm living in the age of entitlement, I don't want to carry this same attitude when it comes to God.  Instead, I want to guard against demanding notoriety when I don't know the consequences connected to that honor, expecting to hold a certain position when I haven't a clue to the sacrifices or responsibilities required, and thinking I should get at least some credit when God deserves it all.  Every good thing is God's alone to give.  My only job is to be humble enough to receive when the time is right.

As I begin this day it is my prayer that I will not expect things about which I have no clue.

When do I think I'm ready for a certain role instead of letting God lead me to it?

How do I desire attention that belongs to God alone?

Willing to Receive

"Peter said to him,

'We have left everything to follow you!'

'I tell you the truth,' Jesus replied,

'no one who has left home or brothers or sisters or mother

or father or children or fields for me and the gospel

will fail to receive a hundred times

 as much in this present age

(homes, brothers, sisters, mothers, children and fields--

and with them, persecutions)

and in the age to come, eternal life.'"

Mark 10:28-30

In order to reap, a gardener must sow.  And before she can sow, something must die.  Let me explain:  

I was talking to a friend of mine about her wonderful garden and the amazing produce she is enjoying.  I asked her to share her secret and she happily exclaimed, "Manure!  It's all about the manure!"  She raises horses and chickens as well, and liberally uses their old, fermented droppings to improve the soil before planting.  It must work because she brings in a bountiful harvest!

I was thinking about manure, and without getting too graphic, I thought about how the horse eats the grass which is utilized by the body for fuel and sustenance and then the wasted is excreted.  Before the soil can benefit from the fertilizer, the grass must be bit off by the grazing horse, separating it from it's life-giving roots as it enters the digestive system where it is ground into a pulp and digested into a more basic element that can be readily utilized.

In a similar way, there are many things that must die in my life before I will be ready to be used by God.  There are practices, beliefs, fears, unforgiveness, hurt; and the list could go on.  God asks me to give up things that are getting in the way of my relationship with Him.  When I obey, I am blessed.  When I tarry, I hurt the heart of God.  Disobedience is a form of doubt, and distrust of my Father injures my relationship with Him.

There is no need to fear letting go.  Jesus has promised that my sacrifice will bring a bountiful harvest, just like the the death of the grass brought life-giving nutrients to my friend's garden.  The question is: Am I willing to receive all that God is waiting to give me?

Ready

He'd been laying there so many years that he lost track of time.  This disease had plagued him for nearly 40 years, leaving him helpless to provide for himself.  He felt all alone in the world as he hoped beyond reason that this would be the day that he'd get to the therapeutic pool first, guaranteeing him a supernatural healing.  Once the angels stirred the waters, the curing powers would be released and all he must do is immerse himself within their cool depths.  This was his only hope.

When Jesus encountered this man, He asked him one question:  "Do you want to get well?" (John 5:1-8)  Well, duh!  But the answer the man gave revealed his heart.  He was putting all his eggs in the healing pool basket, which was a long shot at best.  Perhaps he was afraid to be whole.  Maybe he felt his identity was wrapped up in his infirmity.  It could be that he wasn't ready to receive what Jesus had to give him, that he was afraid to embrace the man God had created him to be.

I can relate!  God puts so many things on my heart to do, but then the doubt creeps in.  But I can't speak in front of a group, I'm not that kind of person.  But I don't know enough to lead a Bible study.  But I'm not a good enough conversationalist to witness to an unbeliever.  But. . .but. . .but.

My doubt is revealing my disbelief.  I am in essence telling God that He is not big enough to work through me, I am too much for Him to handle, He's not powerful enough to overcome my weaknesses.  

Moses suffered from this same problem.  God gave him a mission: Go to Pharaoh and tell him to, "Let my people go!"  Moses thought of every excuse in the book; what if I'm not leadership material?  What if the Israelites don't listen to me?  What if they don't believe me?  What if I can't speak well?  What if, what if, what if!

God reassured him each time, giving him signs to show and words to say, but finally Moses got to the end of his questions with, "Can't you send somebody else?"  (Exodus 3:10-4:16)  Then the Lord's anger burned against Moses.

I do not want to be on the receiving end of God's fury!  Instead, it is my desire to immediately obey without reservation, saying to myself, okay, I know I'm not up to this task, but God definitely is!  I have nothing to fear with Him backing me up!  (Isaiah 41:10)

When God calls me to let go of something and follow Him toward a powerful blessing, can I tell Him I'm ready to receive it?

Perspective

He was incredibly blessed.  God had given him a loving family, riches beyond his wildest dreams, and a peaceful life.  He couldn't imagine life getting any better.  Then came the test.  In one day, he lost it all, with his health to falter soon after.  How did Job respond? "The LORD gave, and the LORD hath taken away; blessed be the name of the LORD." (Job 1:21)

If I am going to be able to receive the mission God has for me and the subsequent blessings that may follow, it is important that I keep it all in perspective.  While no one wants to live in poverty, either spiritually or physically, it is entirely up to God whether or not I do.  I can run after riches, friendships, and important ministries, or I can focus on my relationship with God and let Him decide what He does or does not give.  (Matthew 6:33)

Remembering that God is sovereign will help me to keep it all in perspective.  As 19th Century American Evangelist Dwight L Moody said, "The sweetest lesson I have learned in God's school is to let the Lord choose for me."

Once I'm ready to receive all that God wants to give me, will I be able to keep it in perspective, remembering that it's His to give and His to take away?

Glory

I have to admit, I love getting recognition for a job well done.  I don't readily admit this to others, but in my heart, I enjoy a good pat on the back every once in awhile.

In fact, I was anticipating just such an acknowledgment when my family and I got ready to move away from a Sunday school program where I had taught for four years.  Much to my surprise and disappointment, my last day to teach came and went without so much as a word of thanks from anyone.  I quietly exited the building that morning, humbled beyond recognition.  I said that I was serving for the glory of God, but when it came down to it, I wanted some of the glory as well.

When God calls me to a job, giving me a list of distractions to purge from my life, am I willing to quietly accept all He's doing, or does part of me think I'm a little better for my sacrifices?  In other words, is part of my motivation for obeying God so that my character will improve, my reputation will rise or my ministry will broaden?  

Everything I do is to be for the glory of God (1 Corinthians 10:31): to point others to Him as the source of all good things (James 1:17), to give Him the praise and the honor (1 Thessalonians 5:18), and to promote His will instead of my own (Matthew 6:10).

Now that I'm working in God's kingdom, it is important that my heart only desires the glory to go to God.

My motivation for surrendering my all to Christ can't be that I'll receive the promised hundredfold in return.  Instead, it is to be out of a pure desire to please my Father.  As I let go, I'll need to learn to be ready to receive, to keep all His blessings in perspective, and to do everything with God's honor and magnificence as the goal.  It is then that I'll be set free to follow Him wholeheartedly.  (John 8:32)

As I begin this day it is my prayer that I will keep my own agenda out of the picture and focus solely on God's will.

How do I take His blessings for granted, thinking I earned them or deserve them in some way?

When am I working for my own glory instead of God's?