Value God's Heart

"Are we commending ourselves to you again?

No, we are giving you a reason to be proud of us,

so you can answer those who brag

about having a spectacular ministry

rather than having a sincere heart."

2 Corinthians 5:12 NLT

He didn't look at the outward appearance, choosing the most obvious brother who seemed more kingly.  Instead, God chose the boy who hadn't yet grown into a man.  He anointed David as the next king of Israel because the shepherd boy was to be known as a man after God's own heart.  (1 Samuel 16:7, Acts 13:22)

I have to admit, I am impressed with spectacular ministries that boast large numbers of converts, or that make a large impact, changing whole communities, or who can boast of much growth.  God, however, is impressed with an obedient heart who is devoted to pleasing Him and doing as He has called, even if it means I will never see the impact in this lifetime.

Since God values my heart, I should value His as well.

Loving the Lost

His flock was large; 99 strong.  Still, the thought of that one who had gone astray constantly weighed on His heart.  He couldn't just leave His beloved own wandering around aimlessly, searching for the truth.  He must pursue. (Luke 15:3-7)

This is the heart of God.  He is a tracker, a hunter, a finder of the lost.  How do I respond to the lost who God has placed all around me?  There is the surly old man who flings insults at me as I try to strike up a conversation, or the angry teenager who constantly gets himself into trouble, or the lonely woman who drowns her sorrows in a bottle.

God never gives up on the lost, so neither should I.

Mercy on the Estranged

The boy wanted his own way.  He couldn't wait to taste life to the fullest by trying new foods, experiencing new cultures and embracing the affections of many women.  Thinking he was ready to strike out on his own, he begged his father for his inheritance now.  Reluctantly, the father let his son have his way.  Inside, though, he mourned for what could have been.

Like God, this father loved his son enough to let him go until such a time as he would see his need for his father.  When the son realized the error of his decision as he saw that even the pigs had it better than he, he was ready to turn back to his father.  Why should he starve when there was a father who loved him and who always provided?  Sure enough, his father welcomed him with open arms, looking beyond the hurt of the past and accepting him as a beloved son. (Luke 15:11-32)

This is the heart of God.  He has mercy on the estranged, compassion on those who are separated, and sympathy for the alienated.  How do I respond to those around me who are reaping what they have sown?  Perhaps they made some poor decisions and are now drowning in a sea of debt, or they lived a life of selfishness and now find themselves all alone, or their choices were based on ignorance rather than wisdom and now they are in a world of hurt.

God's mercy never runs out, so neither should mine.

Forgiving the Debtor

His servant owed Him millions of dollars.  The master didn't really have a choice but to sell the man's wife and his children to pay for the debt.  There was no other way.  When He brought the servant before Him, however, the man fell down at His feet, begging for mercy.  The Master's heart was filled with compassion and He forgave the debt on the spot, releasing him from this heavy burden. (Matthew 18:21-27)

This is the heart of God.  Through the blood of Jesus, He is able to forgive me of all my sins, not holding my transgressions against me.  I am released from the heavy burden my sins place on me.  For this reason, I hold the power to let go of the hurts others cause me.  Unlike the servant in the above story who refused to forgive another of a small debt, I am called to be an expert in forgiveness.

Who needs my forgiveness today?  It could be the close friend who snubbed me in a hurtful way, or the family member who routinely leaves me out of important decisions, or the coworker who refuses to acknowledge my existence.

God forgives me so I can forgive others.

God is all about the heart.  Learning about His heart gives me a clue as to how to live my life as His child.  Loving the lost, showing mercy to the estranged, and living to forgive are some attributes of God's heart.  If I value His heart, I will follow suit and let Him do the same through me.

As I begin this day it is my prayer that I will value God's heart.

How do I withhold mercy from those who I judge as not worthy or deserving?

When do I overlook the lost?

Wholehearted Service

"We live by faith,

not by sight.

We are confident, I say,

and would prefer to be away from the body

 and at home with the Lord.

So we make it our goal to please him,

whether we are at home in the body or away from it.

For we must all appear before the judgement seat of Christ,

that each one may receive what is due to him

for the things done while in the body,

whether good or bad."

2 Corinthians 5:7-10

We will stand before the Perfect Judge without fear or trepidation, knowing that our sins have been covered by the blood of the Lamb.  (Romans 8:1)  Instead of deciding whether we will live or die, He will dole out rewards for the way our lives were conducted on earth.  (2 Timothy 2:5, 1 Corinthians 9:24-27)

My heart is ultimately important to God and it will be what He uses to determine my prize.  Consequently, it must be my goal while in this temporary world to please God above all things.

Do as Unto the Lord

He worked diligently for over 100 years, carefully following God's directions:  He gathered enough cypress wood to build a vessel that stretched to a length of 1 1/2 football fields, coating the entire thing with pitch, inside and out.  On the interior, he created three levels of decks and cut a door in the side. (Genesis 6:9-21)

Noah was out to please God and God alone.  There is no other explanation for his dedication to the task the Lord had given him to complete, as absurd as it was to build a ship in the middle of dry land.  Noah and his family must have been the butt of all the jokes, withstanding much ridicule and scorn.  This man, however, was only concerned with doing his best for God, not winning a popularity contest. (Colossians 3:23)

In the same way, a heart dedicated to pleasing God is a heart that is approved by Him.  If I want to receive a favorable reward, I must forget about trying to be popular and focus on doing my best for God, even if it means no human ever notices my effort.

Thinking of every deed I perform as if it were done for the Lord will result in wholehearted service that will bring about a reward in heaven. (Ephesians 6:7-8)

Fully Committed

He danced with all his heart, wanting nothing more than to show his love and adoration to God.  This was how he approached everything; with complete abandon and devotion to the One who created him.  David could never be thought of as unenthusiastic. (2 Samuel 6:14)

There are times when I, unlike David, only give a half-hearted attempt.  I go through the motions of reading the Word or serving His people, but my heart is not fully engaged.  Maybe I'm distracted by worries or caught up in the work of the day.  Whatever the reason, I am not fully giving myself up to the Lord.

A heart fully committed to Him is what God is looking for when deciding what is due to me according to the way I lived my life here on earth.

Held Accountable

The master went away for a long period, leaving each of his servants varying amounts of treasure.  To one he gave five bags of silver, with which the servant immediately went out and invested, earning five more.  To another he gave 2 bags and this faithful servant quickly earned another two bags.  Not wanting to take a risk with his master's money, the final servant took the whole bag entrusted to him and buried it.

When the master came back, he was greatly pleased with the first two servants, but angry at the third who let fear hold him back.  His gift was taken from him and split between the other two faithful men.  (Matthew 25:14-30)

I will be held accountable in a similar way for the gifts, talents and abilities God has bestowed upon me.  When I let fear or doubt hold me back from using them for His glory, I risk displeasing the Lord.  He gave me everything I have for a reason, and it's not just for my own comfort, enjoyment or pleasure.  Instead, I would be wise to look to Him for ways to utilize His blessings for His glory.

The way I spend my time, talent and treasure will come under scrutiny by a God who looks for wholehearted faith.

I can't always see how important my heart is to God, but it is what He will look at when judging my focus, commitment and accountability.  Therefore, I would be wise to cultivate a heavenly mind that desires to please God above all things, does things for Him with complete devotion and uses my gifts wisely.  In this way I will be judged as one who gives wholehearted service to the Lord.

As I begin this day it is my prayer that I will do my best in all things for God.

When do I go through the motions instead of going all out in my attitude and effort?

How do I waste time out of fear of failure or doubt?    

Jars of Clay

"But we have this treasure in jars of clay

to show that this all-surpassing power is from God

and not from us.

We are hard pressed on every side,

but not crushed;

perplexed, but not in despair;

persecuted, but not abandoned;

struck down, but not destroyed.

. . .Therefore we do not lose heart.

Though outwardly we are wasting away,

yet inwardly we are being renewed day by day.

For our light and momentary troubles 

are achieving for us an eternal glory

that far outweighs them all.

So we fix our eyes not on what is seen,

but on what is unseen.

For what is seen is temporary,

but what is unseen is eternal."

2 Corinthians 4:7-9, 16-18

The fire-proof lock-box containing all our important papers and other valuables sits in our bedroom closet.  It is heavy, making it difficult to move.  When I want to access it, I must use a special key kept securely in a secret place.  This box is designed with the intent of keeping those special items safe from fire, theft or water damage.  My husband and I have agreed that if there was some kind of natural disaster or catastrophic event, that box would be one of the things we would take with us.

While I have a certain way of protecting valuables, God has a different method.  His approach lies contrary to mine.  Instead of placing His precious Light in a container of great integrity worthy of it's importance, He entrusts His power to our frail and fragile bodies.  

It's from God

"Please take this away. . .the pain is too great. . . I can't handle the torment. . .please, Lord, take it away so I can serve you freely."  God, however, did not remove this thorn in Paul's side.  Instead, He left the unknown infirmity there to keep Paul humble and reliant on Him for the strength needed to get through each task. (2 Corinthians 12:7-10)

As a result of this difficulty placed in Paul's life, he grew to appreciate the weaknesses, hardships, persecution and insults, for that is when God's power is best displayed.

There are circumstances in my life against which which I am fighting,  wanting instead to be free from them.  God wants me to know that the freedom will come not through removal of the difficulty, but in trusting Him through the trouble.

The only way God will get the glory in my life is if He places His amazing power in this weak, broken vessel that is me.

Inward Renewal

Every day my body falls apart a little bit more.  Not only is my appearance showing my age with the progression of wrinkles and gray hair, but my joints feel the effects of arthritis, my flexibility is diminishing while stiffness increases and my strength is not what it has been in the past.  Some days, I just feel my age more than others.

Thankfully, even though my body is falling apart, God renews my spirit each and every day.  For this reason I can keep going despite the heartaches and physical pain.

Whatever outward challenges I face today, I can take encouragement from knowing my inner self is always in the process of being renewed and remolded into the image of Christ.  (Colossians 3:10)

The only way I can keep going through the sorrow and anguish of this fallen world is through the constant inward renewal process God supplies.

Eternal Glory

We saved up our money, pinching pennies and temporarily forgoing certain pleasures in order to have enough funds to pay for our vacation.  We looked forward to the day when we could experience Disneyland together, knowing it would be an enjoyable time together as a family.  Because of this great hope, we sacrificed gladly in the now in order to reap the benefit in the future.

In a much more powerful way, this is how I can withstand momentary troubles, knowing it will pale in comparison to the everlasting reward waiting for me in Eternity.  Keeping my focus on what is to come in the future instead of on the present suffering will give me an eternal perspective.

I can either live in the now and wonder "why me?" or I can press forward for what is to come and accept my lot in this life.

God places His very power within my weak and fragile body.  Why would He do such a seemingly foolish thing?  So He can get all the glory for the things He does through me, showcase His power by restoring my spirit day by day, and give me an unseen goal to keep me going.  In this way I can see the purpose for placing such a treasure in jars of clay.

As I begin this day it is my prayer that I can trust God through all the hard times, knowing He has a purpose.

When do I feel discouraged about the state of my physical condition?

How can I draw strength from knowing I have much joy awaiting me in eternity?

Triumphal Procession

"But thank God!  He has made us his captives

and continues to lead us along in

Christ's triumphal procession.

Now he uses us to spread the knowledge of Christ everywhere, like a sweet perfume.

Our lives are a Christ-like fragrance rising up to God.

But this fragrance is perceived differently

by those who are being saved

and by those who are perishing.

To those who are perishing,

we are a dreadful smell of death and doom.

But to those who are being saved,

we are a life-giving perfume.

And who is adequate for such a task as this?

You see, we are not like many hucksters

who preach for personal profit.

We preach the word of God with sincerity 

and with Christ's authority,

knowing that God is watching us."

2 Corinthians 2:14-17 NLT

I always knew when she had been there, working out at the gym.  The overpowering scent of her perfume lingered in the air long after she had left the room.  While some may have enjoyed the aroma her fragrance left, my sensitivity to perfume left me gasping for fresh air.  

As a follower of Christ, I leave a similar fragrance behind as I make my way through this world.  This particular aroma, however, is one that brings with it the knowledge of Christ, not just a physical smell.  

My life, then, and all the decisions I make, the places I travel and the activities in which I participate are for a specific purpose: to spread the Gospel of Jesus Christ.

Death

His agony was so excruciating that even a drop of water upon his tongue would have felt heavenly.  He pleaded for the man on the other side to have mercy on him, bringing him even the slightest bit of comfort.  Unfortunately for him, it was too late for the condemned man to receive the grace and mercy always available to him.  Now, he existed on the other side of a great chasm that separated him from the Source of all good things. (Luke 16:19-31)

Instead of spending his life living for God, this foolish man spent it turning his nose up at the stench of death that lay outside his gate.  Lazarus, the poor, sickly man who begged for help outside his home, was an opportunity for this well-to-do man to look beyond himself and see God.  Instead, what he saw disgusted him. 

For those who go through life living for Christ, He will leave tell-tale signs of His presence.  For those who are bent on living for self, however, His followers are simply a reminder of how shallow and empty their own lives are without the God of love.  Coming into the presence of such compassion will only make the sinfulness of those who are headed on the path that leads to destruction more painfully clear.

There are times when I run into rude, cruel and difficult people who seem to be out to get me.  Even though I let the love of God flow to them, it seems their tough exterior grows even more harsh in my presence.  I am tempted to wonder why they hate me.  In these instances, I may need to consider that the love of Christ is coming across as a stench to their nostrils.

If my life seems foolish to those around me, I can take that as a cue to pray for their salvation.  (1 Corinthians 1:18)

Life

The Shepherd led the flock toward the lush, green pastures, allowing them to graze until their bellies were satisfied.  He kept constant watch, looking out for their best interest and protecting them from the attacks of the predators.  When He sensed their heartbeats rising in anxiety, He led them beside the tranquil waters of the hidden spring, calming their nerves and giving them peace.  The aim of this Shepherd was to provide an abundant, full life to His flock.  (Psalm 23, John 10:10)

Jesus is the life-giver.  When He sacrificed His own perfect life in order to take on the punishment my sins earned me, He became my Savior, saving me from an eternal death.  (Romans 3:23, Romans 6:23)  In this way, He is giver of life eternal. (John 3:16)

For those who are saved by Christ, my life gives off the fragrance of life, pleasant and agreeable, drawing delight and joy.  

Sincerity

"Gather 'round, I have a few words to say to you before you begin your journey.  You are headed into enemy territory.  Many will not accept the message you are giving.  No matter, because many will receive it with joy.  Focus on those who accept the truth of the Gospel, pouring into their lives the love I give to you.  It is as if I were sending you out into the field to harvest a crop.  There is much work to be done, and not enough workers, but go forth as one on a mission.  Ask, and our Father will send backup help."  (paraphrase of Luke 10:1-3)

Jesus knew the task that lay before the 72 disciples, but he also knew the joy of seeing the bountiful fruit about to be harvested.  Recognizing that the knowledge of Christ emanating around me will draw a varied response, I must take that as a call to speak of God whenever possible despite the reaction I receive.  God is sending me out into the mission field, just as Jesus sent the disciples of old.  

My harvest field is located all around me; in my community, my place of work, and where I recreate and do business.  Some will accept the Gospel, others will reject it.  However its received, my only duty is in telling others the Good News as if God were watching me.  He has saved me and placed me specifically in this location for His purposes.  My mission is to speak through words given by His Spirit, actions driven by His love, and choices made to please God.  

Since my life is a living demonstration of the love of God, it speaks volumes about the Gospel of Christ.

No matter what my intent, my life is a testimony to whom I live.  If I live for me, it will reek of sin.  If I live for Christ, however, it will leave His fragrance wherever I go.  To those who reject the Truth, His scent will only remind them of their own inadequacies and their impending doom, but to those who are saved by Christ, His fragrance is the bouquet of life.  My only mission is to follow God's lead as He gives me the words and deeds to speak boldly for Christ, making my life a victorious demonstration of His love that brings glory to God.     

Flow of Comfort

"All praise to God,

the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ.

God is our merciful Father

and the source of all comfort.

He comforts us in all our troubles

so that we can comfort others.

When they are troubled,

we will be able to give them the same comfort 

God has given us."

2 Corinthians 1:3-4 NLT

If you've watched any television recently, you know that we live in a cold-hearted world.  From reality shows where only the strong survive and an every-man-for-himself mentality is fostered, to sitcoms where fathers are portrayed as buffoons and children as the only ones capable of making an informed decision, there is no doubt that this world is sorely lacking in compassion and godly values.

Living in this kind of a cruel and ruthless world, it is easy for me to become the same.  Therefore, it is important for me to stay in the flow of comfort that occurs in the Body of Christ.  This spring of eternal encouragement and reassurance in the face of difficulty gives purpose to suffering for it's use as a tool in the Father's hands to mold us into more compassionate people.

Source of the Flow

Blood mingled with sweat flowed to the ground, blending with the dry soil to make a kind of holy mud.  The very life that seeped out of the One who hung suffering on the cross served to make the disobedient and defiant right with God.  

The compassion of our Heavenly Father is most powerfully and undeniably demonstrated in Christ's sacrificial death. (Romans 5:8)  He gave His precious Son to those who didn't even know of our need or who, frankly, didn't care to be saved.  He anticipated our need for a Savior before we even knew we needed Him.

The character of God is love, and He is the source of all good things.  (1 John 4:8, James 1:17) My road to compassionate living begins with my Father:  He is the headwaters of this river of kindess.

To enter into the flow of comfort, I must be in relationship with the Source through faith in Christ Jesus, who gave His all that I might live. (Mark 10:45)

In My Troubles

He lay there beside the healing waters for 38 years; so close to freedom from the sickness that wracked his body, yet so far.  Tradition had it that angels stirred the waters of Bethesda every so often.  The first of the sick, blind, lame or paralyzed who entered her waters was miraculously healed.  This was the man's only hope: his source of salvation.

One day Jesus came along.  When He saw the man whom He had created to live life to the full lying there in despair beside the waters he asked, "Would you like to get well?" (John 5:6)  Even though the troubled man knew not from where his true healing would come, Jesus instantly made him well.  

Do I want to be healed from what holds me back from living my life as Jesus created me to live?  It could be physical, spiritual or emotional healing that I seek, but I must look to the Great Physician as the only source of wholeness.  When I'm ready, He will comfort me like no other; sending brothers and sisters alongside me to support, granting me a sense of peace in my heart, and encouraging me through the assurance that He has everything under control.

To receive the flow of comfort, I must be willing to receive the support He offers.

Enables me to Comfort

He was hated by most Jews.  His colorful, diverse background was despised by the people who called themselves God's own.  Even so, when he saw the poor man suffering as the result of the cruelty of another, he was compelled to help out of great compassion for his predicament, despite the fact that the victim was a Jew. (Luke 10:30-37)

The kindness God has shown me during times of great suffering and pain overflows to others in their time of need.  Since I am loved deeply by God, I am empowered to love others in the same way, just as the Good Samaritan did.

Unfortunately, that flow is sometimes blocked by fear or selfishness.  If my comfort, well-being or reputation is more important on my list of priorities, then God's love will not flow.  If my attention is more on my life, my desires and my plan, then God's love will not flow.

To allow the flow of comfort to pour from me, I must be willing to put God first, above all other concerns.

Even though I live in a dark, mean world, I am not destined to become the same.  Instead, I can let the flow of comfort gush forth by encouraging the relationship I have with the Father of Compassion, to allow Him to comfort me in all my troubles, and to keep the river of love flowing through me.  In this way, the flow of comfort will flood into every part of my life.

As I begin this day it is my prayer that I can pay attention to my Source of all good things.

How do I block the flow of compassion in my life?

When am I afraid to reach out to someone in need?  

The Protection of Forgiveness

"If you forgive anyone,

I also forgive him.

And what I have forgiven--

if there was anything to forgive--

I have forgiven in the sight of Christ for your sake,

in order that Satan might not outwit us.

For we are not unaware of his schemes."

2 Corinthians 2:10-11

The feud went on for years.  During a time period that spanned over twenty-five years, one family held a hatred for the other family, sometimes killing over trivial things like the ownership of a hog, other times over sheer revenge.  Whatever the motivation, what can be said about the Hatfields and the McCoys is that they have become an icon for the destructiveness of unforgiveness.

As a follower of Christ, I am called to be an expert forgiver, passing on the mercy I have received through Jesus Christ.  It comes as no surprise, then, that Satan would work against this command, doing everything he can to keep me in a state of unforgiveness.  I am not, however, defenseless against the schemes of the Evil One.

Alert

Jesus told a parable of an evil spirit leaving a man.  Upon his return, he finds his previous dwelling place to be swept clean, ready for occupation.  Since the situation is so favorable, he brings in seven of his friends and, "the final condition of that man is worse than the first." (Luke 11:23-26)

The man in the parable was oblivious to the danger in which his naivete place him.  Instead of paying attention, the man assumed he was safe since the evil had left him.  His mistake was in failing to fill his life with Jesus.

I put myself in the same peril when I don't commit my life fully to Jesus.  In trying to take on certain projects in my own power, I am leaving myself open to the schemes of the Evil One, completely unaware of how he is leading me away from the Truth.

Instead, I must be alert, realizing that Satan is out to get me.  I make myself vulnerable when I am outside Christ's domain, venturing into the territory of independence, self-righteousness, and self-reliance.  In depending upon my own strength and wherewithall, or in refusing to give someone a second chance,  I am inviting Satan into my life in the same way the man with the empty heart left a place for evil to dwell.  In the place of this foolish vulnerability, I must let the love of Jesus rule my life.

Satan will not find success in his schemes when I am aware of his tactics and fully utilize the armor freely given to those who entrust their lives to Jesus. (Ephesians 6:10-18)

Resist

He was hungry, thirsty and tired after spending forty days fasting in the wilderness.  At His weakest point, Satan came to tempt Him physically, appealing to His hunger; then to question His Father's dominion and protection over Him; and finally to lure Him to idolatry.  Each time, Christ resisted these attempts of Satan, utilizing the Sword of the Spirit, which is the Word of God. (Matthew 1-11, Ephesians 6:17)

In the same way that Christ was tempted, Satan also attempts to lure me away from the Truth as I have learned it.  He may say, "You're no good.  You're a failure.  Who do you think you are trying to take on such a ministry?"  to which I can say, "There is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus.  Everything God made is good, and I am created in His image, making me invaluable.  God has already given me everything I need to accomplish the mission to which He has called me.  Be gone, Satan!"  (Romans 8:1 ;Genesis 1;27, 31; 2 Peter 1:3)

James tells me that when I place myself under the authority of God and stand firm against the attacks of Satan, he will cease and desist, retreating in failure.  (James 4:7)  When I give in to his assaults, however, his power of influence will increase in my life and God's will decrease.  Satan thrives when I yield to him.  

Satan will gain no ground in my life unless I willingly hand it over to him.

Firm Stance

"I hereby grant you the authority to cast out unclean spirits.  Generously use this power to set the prisoners free."  (paraphrased from Matthew 10:1,8)  Jesus gave His disciples domain over Satan and his minions.  Later, He taught that, ". . .anyone who has faith in me will do what I have been doing.  He will do even greater things than these, because I am going to the Father. . .You may ask me for anything in my name, and I will do it." (John 14:12, 14)

As a follower of Christ, I have been given the invitation to use the power found in the name of Jesus, to whom every knee will bow and tongue confess as Lord.  (Philippians 2:10)  When I realize his supremacy over all things, but especially of the Evil One, I gain the confidence to stand firm in faith.

When Satan tempts me to hold a grudge, then, I can exercise the power Jesus gives me to forgive.  When my enemy plants a seed of doubt, causing me to hesitate in my obedience to God's calling, I can utilize the dominion of Christ by standing on the integrity of God and go forward in confidence.  When the Devil appeals to my pride, telling me I am in the right and should not back down, I can call upon the power Christ has over this scheme and humbly acquiesce.

Satan will not succeed in his attacks when I stand firm on the authority of my Lord and Savior.

I must not be naive: Satan is prowling around, looking for a follower of Christ to devour. (1 Peter 5:8)  Thankfully, though, I am not left defenseless.  Instead, I have been warned of his schemes.  It is important that I pay attention, keeping alert to his efforts, resisting his attacks and standing firm in the faith.  When I practice true forgiveness, then, I am offered a type of protection from the attacks of the Evil One.

As I begin this day it is my prayer that I can keep an attitude of forgiveness.

When do I hold a grudge instead of letting go of a hurt?

How am I giving into the attacks of Satan by believing what he tells me?

Made for Greatness

"Now it is God

who makes both us and you

stand firm in Christ.

He anointed us,

set his seal of ownership on us,

and put his Spirit in our hearts as a deposit,

guaranteeing what is to come."

2 Corinthians 1:21-22

Again and again, the whip mercilessly found its mark.   Welts and open wounds covered his back, delivering excruciating pain to the man.  His crime?  Following Jesus.  Despite the torture, he would not renounce his faith in Christ.  What makes a man stand firm in the face of such agony and torment?  It is the work of God Himself.

Anointed

There was no one stronger.  His desire for pleasure drew him into many difficult predicaments, leading him to enact revenge using creatively cruel methods.  Basically, his lifestyle drew violence.

No one would call Samson a man after God's own heart, but he was set aside for His use.  He was anointed as a Nazirite from the time before he was conceived, his parents carefully following the guidelines set forth by the angel of the Lord who was sent to deliver this message of joy.  No wine or fermented drink ever entered his system, his hair grew uninhibited as no razor touched his skin, and nothing but clean food nourished his body.  This boy was destined for greatness. (Judges 13:2-5)

Even though Samson was anointed by God and used to bring judgement upon the Philistines, the enemies of His chosen people, he did not live wholeheartedly to God.  In the same way, I am set aside for God's use, chosen as a living sacrifice. (Romans 12:1)  The attitude of my heart betrays my true motivation, however.  Many times, I am as self-seeking as Samson was, intent on satisfying my own pleasures, focused on defending my own rights, and dedicated to following my own plans.

God can still use me to fulfill His purposes, just as He did Samson.  But my legacy will either be that of one who was fully committed to living for Christ, or as one who was used by Him despite my own faithlessness.  It is up to me to remain in Christ, just as His anointing teaches me to do. (1 John 2:27)

God gives me the anointing for His service, granting me the ability to stay connected to Him in a way that brings glory to God.

Sealed

He was the favored son.  He never seemed to mess up like all his brothers did.  Everything he did prospered.  Even when he was sold into slavery, things just seemed to work out for him and soon he came out smelling like a rose.  One day he was languishing in jail, put there by his owner's jealous wife, the next he was in charge of all the prisoners.  (Genesis 39)  Later, as a result of his ability to interpret dreams, he was elevated to second in command of all of Egypt. (Genesis 41)

Joseph did not rise to such heights because of his own efforts or worth.  Instead, it was the favor of God that was upon him, giving him preference in the eyes of those in charge.  (Genesis 39:21, Genesis 41:39)

I too am sealed by faith in the blood of Jesus. (Ephesians 4:31)   I am stamped as His own property, having been bought with a price.  Now my life no longer belongs to me, but to Christ. (1 Corinthians 6:20, Galatians 2:20)

This seal of ownership gives me the ability to stand firm for the One Who gave His life for me.  Just as Joseph was able to live a righteous life despite great hardship and temptation, I am able to withstand the difficulties that come my way without giving up,  keep from getting drawn into the ways of the world, and persevering through the suffering.

God stamps His seal of ownership upon my head, giving me the ability to live for Him despite the hard times that come.

Guaranteed

He walked with God, then he was no more. (Genesis 5:24)  There is no dispute: Enoch was a man who pleased God in the way he kept faithful to Him.  (Hebrews 11:5-6)  Enoch lived during a time of great wickedness.  People were growing increasingly evil, turning their hearts toward their own desires instead of living in a way that pleased God.  Enoch stood out because his focus was on God and His ways.

In the same way, I live in a time of great wickedness.  People use their own common sense to solve problems, relying on what they think is right instead of acknowledging God in all their ways.  (Proverbs 3:5-6)  The people of our time are very much like the people who lived in the time of Micah when there was no judge to guide the Israelites.  (Judges 17:6)  Instead, people just did what seemed right to them.

It may seem to be most compassionate to abort a baby to keep her from suffering a neglectful life, but seeking the wisdom of God would enlighten me to realize that all life is precious.  In my mind, it may seem only fair that everyone should be allowed to marry no matter their sexual orientation.  If I took the time to find out what God ordained, however, I would learn that the pattern for marriage as He designed it is to be between a man and a woman.  (Genesis 1:27, Genesis 2:23-24) 

God put His Spirit in my heart as a deposit of what is to come so I can live as a foreigner here, completely committed to His kingdom.

Even though I may not be physically tortured for my faith in Christ, I will find myself coming against opposition if I live for him.  Thankfully, He gives me the ability to stand firm by anointing me for His use, sealing me as His own, and guaranteeing me life eternal.  In these ways, I am made for greatness!

The Peril of the Open Door

"But I will stay on at Ephesus until Pentecost,

because a great door for 

effective work has opened to me,

and there are many who oppose me.

. . .Be on your guard; 

stand firm in the faith;

be men of courage;

be strong.

Do everything in love."

1 Corinthians 16:8-9, 13-14

She seemed to be out to get me.  I couldn't understand why another believer would react with such a severe intensity.  After all, we were on the same team, weren't we?  God had opened an amazing door to share the gospel with middle school girls, but she seemed to be using her authority and position of power to make sure that didn't happen.

Paul experienced much the same thing when an opening presented itself for sharing the gospel.  The natural instinct is to go into fight mode, setting up a perimeter and putting up my guard.  In God's kingdom, however, business is handled differently.  Instead of defending my rights, arguing my case, and fighting for what is right, God has a distinct way for His people to go forth against this kind of opposition.

Stand Firm in Faith

He was zealous for his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.  His eagerness to share this joy overflowing from the hope that comes through the gift of salvation found by faith in Christ was extinguished by a dose of reality.  Some deceivers had wormed their way into the Body of believers, spreading a false doctrine. (Jude 3-4)  

This same belief confronting Jude exists today.  Some think the grace God so freely offers gives us license to live an immoral life.  Since the blood of Jesus covers my sin, so the thinking goes, then why should I worry about turning from my sinful ways?  This is commonly called, "cheap grace," and denies the severity of the sacrifice Jesus made for my sin.  It shows a blatant disregard for the suffering Jesus willingly underwent for my sake.

To stand firm means I must not waver from the truth of the gospel of grace.  I am saved so that I can live a holy life that is pleasing to God. (1 Peter 1:16)  Not that I am able to live a perfectly sin-free life, but that it must be my desire to turn away from the sin that plagues me.

On the other side of the coin is a completely opposite fallacy that is also prevalent in churches today.  Some feel the need to place a heavy burden upon followers of Christ that we must follow the letter of the law.  This, too, goes against the gospel of grace in that we are saved out of no doing of our own. (Ephesians 2:8-9)  

Followers of this mindset are taking a risk of becoming like the hypocritical Pharisees who expected more from others than they were able to do themselves.  None is able to keep the law perfectly.  If we were, there would be no need for Christ. (Galatians 2:21)

Both fallacies deny the power of the cross.  It is important to stand firm and insist on the preaching of our salvation only through the blood of Jesus.   As Paul said, "For I resolved to know nothing while I was with you except Jesus Christ and him crucified."  (1 Corinthians 2:2)

When people come against the work of the Gospel in my life, stand firm in the truth of the crucifixion of Christ.

Be Courageous and Strong

They were thrown in jail for preaching the Gospel, performing miraculous signs, healing people and casting out evil spirits.  Many came to faith in Christ because of their faithfulness.  As the crowds grew, the Jewish leaders grew worried, jealous of their popularity.  Consequently, they felt it necessary to stifle the enthusiasm that was growing in the midst of Peter and the other apostles.  Spending some time in jail just might do the trick.

That first night behind bars, though, an angel of the Lord opened the doors and delivered them from confinement.  This heavenly messenger also gave them marching orders, "Go, stand in the temple courts," he said, "and tell the people the full message of this new life."  Obeying such an order, knowing the result could be harsher treatment, took courage and strength.  (Acts 5:17-21)

I, too, am called to speak the truth with boldness in a world that rejects the message of the gospel as foolishness.  (Matthew 28:19-20, 1 Corinthians 1:18)  Instead of acting timidly, I can take a lesson from Peter and go forward with the kind of faith that believes God will bring about a change in the hearts of those who hear.

When people come against the work of the Gospel in my life I can "be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power." (Ephesians 6:10)

Do Everything in Love

His nickname means, "Son of Encouragement." (Acts 4:36)  He was known for believing the best of people, patiently bearing with them in service and kindly offering words of support and inspiration.  Barnabas took seriously the commandment to love one another and beautifully demonstrated how to follow the way of love. (John 13:34-35, 1 Corinthians 14:1)

When Satan raises people up against what God is doing in my life, my first impulse is to rise to meet them in battle.  If I am to let the love of Christ rule in my heart, however, I will see the battle as belonging to the Lord.  Then, I am freed up to allow His love to flow through me.

Think of the people in northern India who spend hours a day carrying water from the river to their home.  Disease and sickness runs rampant as water supplies are not clean.  Christians are persecuted, made to wait until everyone else has received their fair share before they can fill their buckets.  Violence is a way of life for these believers, but all they want is to share the love of Jesus in a tangible way with those who attack them.

God answered their prayers and provided wells through a ministry called Living Water International.  The clean water now available to those who previously persecuted the Christians, confused yet attracted them to the love of God.

There is no greater testimony to the Gospel of Christ than by showing love to my enemies.  Those who rise up against me will not be able to deny the power behind a surprising act of compassion.

When people come against the work of the Gospel in my life I can choose to walk in the way of love.

It can be discouraging to see a door fling wide open for the effective work of God but have someone actively work against it.  Instead of fighting the opposition, though, I can stand firm in faith and be strong and courageous, doing it all with the love of Christ.  Even though there is peril to be found in the open door, God is faithful to accomplish what He set out to do.

As I begin this day it is my prayer that I will look for ways to love others.

When do I tend to go with my first instinct and fight, instead of looking for ways to love?

How am I prone to silence my voice when opposition rises against the Gospel?