Hopeful Expectation

"Surely your goodness and unfailing love will pursue me

all the days of my life,

and I will live in the house of the LORD forever."

Psalm 23:6 NLT

I have seen the benefits of living life with the Good Shepherd.  I have learned of His many blessings as I live in relationship with Him.  I am overjoyed with such abundance.  The beauty that blooms in my transforming heart goes above and beyond my expectations.  As deep and meaningful as my life has become through Jesus Christ, however, it is not all there is.  Perhaps the greatest benefit is yet to come.

Goodness and Mercy.  Anything that is good in this world comes from God (James 1:17).  He Himself is good.  There is nothing evil or dark about Him.  Unlike me, He can be counted on to be virtuous and to do what is best.  Not only is He a good God, but He is love, known for giving me what I don't deserve.

This goodness and steadfast love is beautifully demonstrated in God's generous gift of a promised land to His unfaithful people.  Despite their continual distrust of His ability to provide, protect and deliver them, He still gave the younger generation of Israelites houses beautifully furnished and filled, wells flowing with sweet water and gardens bursting with produce; a ready-made community marked by the abundance of a kind and merciful God (Nehemiah 9:25, Deuteronomy 6:10-12).

This is the kind of goodness and mercy that flows into my life through faith in Jesus Christ.  It's not due to anything I have done, wise choices I have made, or right paths I have chosen.  Instead, God gives good things as a result of His astounding love;  love that flows uninhibited into my life because of His character.

I can expect God to pursue me with His goodness and mercy.

All My Life.  I tend to give up easily.  If I'm treated poorly, my first response is to write the offender off.  My patience quickly runs dry.  God is not at all like me.  He is a God who pursues the broken, who runs after the lost, loves the unlovable (Isaiah 40:28, Luke 15:4).  

Because of this faithfulness, I can expect to never go a day without experiencing the lavishness of God.  If I look for it, I will see it, this abundance overflowing throughout my days.  It could be in the simple gift of a smile when I most need a bit of sunshine, or the hug of a friend when I'm feeling down, or the sight of a sparrow flitting through the bushes outside my window that brings an unexpected smile to my face.

If I am to notice all the good things God is pouring into my life, I'll have to look with kingdom eyes.  My Father does not value the same things this world holds dear.  As a result, His good gifts come wrapped in different kinds of packages, those the world won't even categorize as precious.  But to Him, they are the best kind.  May I always treasure that which will last, that which comes from Him (Matthew 6:19-21).

I can look forward to an continuous flow of His goodness and mercy each and every day of my life.

Eternal Dwelling.  I often feel like I don't belong, like this world is foreign to me or that I'm a fish out of water.  As one who has been bought by the blood of Jesus, ushered into the family of God through faith in His Son, I really don't belong here.  There is a place where I am meant to live, a heavenly dwelling place that is my real home (Philippians 3:20). 

Since this is not where I will always live, I must remember the temporary nature of this life.  When I return to my home in heaven, everything will be as God meant it to be.  It is unrealistic, then, for me to expect heaven here on earth.  Therefore, I must place my hope in what is to come, trusting that all will be made right when I arrive to the place Jesus has prepared for me.  Until then, I keep my eyes focused on this prize, running with all my might toward the hope of what is to come.  

The hope I have of returning to my real home in heaven can spur me on as I live here on earth.

God has blessed me with so many good things as His child through faith in Jesus.  Even though I don't deserve it, I can expect this flow of blessings to continue throughout my life.  As if this weren't enough, this life pales in comparison to the home that awaits me in eternity.  With such a God as this, I can live my life in hopeful expectation.

As I begin this day it is my prayer that I can trust God to give me better than what I deserve.

When do I desire that which is not truly valuable?

How do I doubt God's goodness and mercy, believing He won't give me good things because of all the ways I've failed?

Blessing of Life

"You anoint my head with oil;

my cup overflows."

Psalm 23:5b

He was a simple shepherd boy, the last-born of eight sons.  He did not have dreams of grandeur but enjoyed tending the sheep and delighting in God's creation, marveling at all He had made.  One day, everything changed. The great priest and prophet of Israel visited his family, asking specifically to see the youngest.  As the oil ran down the sides of his head, the Spirit of the Lord rushed upon the boy who was to be king.  David was chosen by God (1 Samuel 16:1-13).

The Psalms are filled with the outpouring of this man's heart as he expressed his thankfulness and praise to such a God as this.  A God who enters into a young boy's life and changes him forever.  A God who is personal and relational.  A God who loves His image-bearers.

Similarly, God blesses me in many ways I don't deserve.  He does it to fulfill His plan, to further His purpose, to complete His design.  But that's not all.  God loves to bless me more than I can imagine because it makes His heart sing.

Set Apart.  There is a reason I'm here.  I'm not a part of some huge cosmic mistake, popping up by accident and here to serve no purpose.  Instead, I've been created as a masterpiece, set aside for a specific function, to fill a tailor-made role and to complete a particular mission (Ephesians 2:10).  There is no one on earth who can do what I do, who thinks the way I think, and who is put together in the same way as me (Psalm 139:13-16).

As unique as I am, though, I'm not simply here for my own purposes and to live to please myself.  No.  I'm made for God.  He's got this great plan that hatched long before I took my first breathe.  He has something in mind for me to do, a part to play in the great drama of life and a job to do in His Body (1 Corinthians 12:12).  Through faith in Jesus Christ, I am set apart for Him.

God has a certain plan for my life that is designed just for me and will bring glory to Him.

Chosen.  He loves me first so that I know what love is and can let that love flow to others (1 John 4:19).  Comfort comes from the Father of compassion so that I can then comfort others in the same way I've been encouraged and consoled by a merciful God (1 Corinthians 1:3-4).  Likewise, my faith in Christ was initiated by God Himself (John 6:44) and comes as a result of His supernatural work in my heart, showing me my need for a Lord and Savior (John 15:16).

It's easy for me to think I was smart enough to pick the Way of life or that I saw how much I needed Jesus.  The truth is that God is the source of everything good in my life, including the faith I use to trust in Jesus as my Savior (Ephesians 2:8, Hebrews 12:2).  He is the initiator, the catalyst, the spark.  He softened my heart, giving me that hunger for Him so that I could live the life He created me to live.

God chose me for Himself, giving me a sense of contentment as I walk with Him.

Overflow.  God is not a stingy God.  He doesn't withhold, giving only what is necessary for life.  Looking at a field of tulips heralding the arrival of Spring, a brilliant blanket of gold and scarlet, I see His generous heart.  He goes above and beyond what is necessary, giving much more than what is needed.

With such a Father as this, I can expect to be lavished with His love, invited to come to Him at any time with every problem, no matter how small (Hebrews 4:16).  Not only does He listen to my petty complaints, but He gives me all I need and more.  He overflows my cup with grace, love and mercy, giving me the resources to be able to go above and beyond what is expected of me.  I can do more than just survive this difficult life.  I can thrive (John 10:10).

God overflows my life with such goodness that I can't possibly keep it all for myself.

My life is filled with many blessings, signposts of God's amazing love.  I haven't done a thing to deserve such bounty, but He still sets me apart for His holy purposes despite my brokenness, chooses me to join His family as His precious child even though I'm anything but worthy, and overflows my cup of blessings regardless of my stingy, greedy nature.  Through faith in Jesus Christ, I have all these blessings of life, and more.

As I begin this day may I trust such a generous God to give me more than I can ask or imagine.  

When do I run after things, not believing that God has something even better in mind for me?

How am I afraid to accept His blessings, thinking I'll somehow ruin it?      

  

With the Enemy

"You prepare a table before me

in the presence of my enemies."

Psalm 23:5a

My idea of a perfect life would mean there was no resistance, no evil, no adversary.  In this ideal world, I'd be able to live as God meant for me to live without anyone to oppose me, tempt me, or trick me.  

While I may fantasize about such a place, it is not a part of reality.  In this world there is an Enemy who is out to steal, kill and destroy, and there is evil which is in direct opposition to God's plan.   As I live in this dark place under the grace of God through faith in Jesus Christ, these enemies actually serve a purpose in my life.  Even though I'd rather avoid them and wipe them out, God has something else in mind.

Faith.  It's only something I can talk about until it is tested.  I'll never know if it's real until I have to use it.  It stays as an idea in my head until I'm forced to put the concept into practice.  

Faith.  It's worth more than gold in God's economy.  And like gold, it must be purified.  The contaminants must be burned out by fire.  If the faith is real, it will survive the ordeals I'm faced with in life.  If it's not genuine, it will perish (1 Peter 1:6-7).

When I come face to face with an enemy, running into opposition as I go about my life, it's easy to doubt whether what I'm doing is important enough to put up with such difficulty.  I'm may be tempted to give in, letting my convictions go and living as if my choices don't matter.  Or, I can trust God in the plan He has for my life, believing it is good and that He will give me the strength to persevere.  

When I run into obstacles as I walk the path God has marked out for me, I may wonder if I've strayed away from God's will, mistakenly thinking He would only take me on a road that is free from difficulty or that He'd steer me around evil.  In reality, I must trust Him enough to feel comfortable even though there's darkness all around, believing God will protect me.  I'm in a war and must expect opposition, but I am under the protective wing of the Almighty no matter how bad things look.  My faith grows as I take a risk and believe in His ability to shelter me through the attacks.

My faith is tested and grown as I trust Him enough to go about my business in the presence of my enemies.

Reality.  We will be hunted down by those who think they're on God's side.  We'll be labeled as blasphemers, persecuted in many ways.  Our hearts will be grieved as those around us party like there's no tomorrow.  This is our time of grief, but joy will come.  

Jesus warned His disciples of what was to come, what has been experienced since the beginning of the Church and what we now see as 21st Century followers.  He had a purpose for revealing such realities, not just trying to scare us but to teach us of a truth.  "I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace.  In this world you will have trouble.  But take heart!  I have overcome the world."  (John 16:33)

Evil is a reality of living in this dark world that is ruled by a prince whose purpose is opposed to God's.  My battle as I live in such a wicked place is not against those I see, but versus the unseen powers of evil that are swirling around me in the heavenly realms (Ephesians 6:12).  They are hatching plans against me, dispatching troops to oppose me, and always thinking of ways to trip me up.  

Even though I face such insidious  and persistent evil, I am ruled by the Overcomer!  The power of Jesus is greater than any darkness I will come up against and He will not fail as my mighty Warrior.  Therefore, I can rest easy, knowing I am fighting on the winning side!

I must realize the reality of life in this world is that I will run into opposition, but He who is with me is greater than any foe I can face (Isaiah 54:17, 1 John 4:4).

Redemptive Power.  There seemed to be no hope.  Attacks were coming from all sides.  It looked like it may be the end.  Yet among the ruins, in the midst of the rubble, a tender shoot grew.  A flower flourished like a spot of beauty among the ashes.

This is a picture of God's redemptive power.  In the middle of attack, while withstanding blows from my enemies, I can gain sustenance, finding good in the midst of such evil.  Even more incredible is how God can transform that which was meant for my destruction, and go beyond merely protecting me from it, but actually using it for my good (Romans 8:28, Genesis 50:20).  In the hands of God, the most vile and dark act designed to be the end of me becomes the best thing that ever happened.

God can take the ugly and make it beautiful.  He can take that which was dead and breathe new life into it.  He is a God who gives strength to the weak, joy to the mourning, and praise in place of gloominess (Isaiah 61:3, Isaiah 40:29).  He is a redeeming God who is never without hope.  He is more than able to take that which the enemy meant for my destruction and use it as a tool of His redemptive power.

Even though it's easy to be intimidated by the opposition I face, nothing is so great that God is not greater still.

While I'd rather live my life free from trouble and foes, God has something else in mind.  He uses the opposition I face to grow my faith as I trust Him through the inevitable attacks, always transforming the outcome into something good.  In these ways, I can rest easy in the midst of my enemies, knowing that God has a plan through it all.

As I begin this day it is my prayer that I can trust God even though it seems things are hopeless.

When do I dread the darkness instead of trusting the God who is known for showing up at the darkest hour?

How do I despair when opposition comes, failing to recognize God's redemptive power which transforms the bad into something good?

In the Dark Valley

"Even though I walk through 

the valley of the shadow of death,

I will fear no evil,

for you are with me;

your rod and your staff,

they comfort me."

Psalm 23:4 ESV

I get the wrong idea sometimes.  I hear people say trusting Jesus will deliver the good life to me, and I see pictures of all my troubles melting away.  Somehow, I make it all about me and my comfort, my desires, my expectations.  I believe I can have my best life now if I will only think positively.  But Jesus has something much bigger and better in mind.  

In His kingdom, making God's greatness known is of more importance than keeping me free from difficulty (Proverbs 16:4).  In His kingdom, avoidance of the hard stuff is not considered, rather the ugly is transformed into something beautiful (Isaiah 61:3).  In His kingdom, every brush with death, time of suffering, and bout with pain is used to conform me into the image of Jesus (Romans 8:28-29).

Following Jesus as my Good Shepherd does not mean my life will be free from suffering, pain or difficulty (John 10:14, 16:33) .  Instead, I have the benefit of my Shepherd as He leads me through the dark valley.

Presence.  When I was pregnant with my triplet daughters, I spent two months in the hospital where I could be kept under the watchful eye of the medical staff.  Every morsel of food and drop of drink I consumed was tracked.  My vital signs, weight and emotional well-being were measured and recorded.  Normal bathroom functions were out of the question as my output also needed to be checked.  There was even a monitor strapped around my ever-expanding girth so that any contractions could be detected.

While this seemed quite constricting at times, I did discover it's necessity one day as I raised the bed up so I could eat breakfast.  Suddenly, the nurse on duty burst in the door asking, "What are you doing?"  I dropped by forkful of hashbrowns, feeling like I had done something wrong.  "Oh, you're just eating breakfast.  You suddenly started having contractions and I see it was triggered by moving to an upright position so you could eat."  It should come as no surprise that they suggested I start eating in a partially reclined position in order to hold off labor as long as possible to give our precious girls the best chance possible.

This reminds me of God's constant monitoring of me.  David said in Psalm 139 that God sees everything and has it all under control.  "You hem me in, behind and before, and lay your hand upon me." (v 5)  There is nothing that happens in my life that escapes His attention.  In fact, it all is filtered through His hands for approval before it can enter into my life.  Everything is under His watchful eye and He is always at work guiding me and protecting me.

As I walk through the dark valley, I am under the constant care of my Shepherd.

Rod.  A shepherd always carries a rod as an extension of his own right arm.  He uses it to protect his charges from harm, throwing it to keep them from wandering into a dangerous hazard or wielding it against a hungry predator.  The rod is also a sign of his authority and strength so the sheep know he is in charge of them.  The shepherd uses it to count his sheep, conducting a careful examination of each animal as he searches the thick wool for any kind of hidden symptoms that could point to disease or injury.

The sheep under his watchful eye know they are cared for.  Seeing the rod in his hands gives them comfort as they are reminded of his ability to protect, discipline and lead them.

Similarly, I can trust Jesus to foresee danger before I even know of it's presence.  This could mean He uses the firm hand of discipline in my life to keep me from harming myself, or in staving off the enemy who is lurking and ready to attack.  He also is constantly checking my heart for faulty thinking, selfish attitudes or ulterior motives that are developing, convicting me of the danger lurking there (Psalm 51:10).  Knowing He is always on guard gives me peace and a sense of security.

As I walk through the dark valley, I am comforted by the rod of my Shepherd.

Staff.  Sheep can get into some of the most preposterous dilemmas.  Being curious yet completely helpless is a combination that finds them inadvertently falling off cliffs into the sea, getting tangled in brambles as they search for green blades of grass, and becoming stuck in the mud as they wander off.  The shepherd's staff then can be used to rescue them from such predicaments.  

The long slender stick with the curve in the end is also useful for drawing the shy animals toward himself, to guide them as he uses it to apply pressure on their side to give them reassurance of their path, as well as to safely lift a newborn to present to its mother without the risk of applying a scent which could repel the ewe.

Likewise, my good Shepherd's staff brings much relief and encouragement as I walk through hard times.  He expertly extracts me from the ridiculous situations I get myself into, saving me from myself.  He also draws me to Himself when I hang back, afraid I'll be rejected or am unlovable.  Other times He applies gentle pressure, giving me the confirmation that I'm on the right track.  It's as if He's saying, "Keep going little lamb!  You're doing well!"

This kind of care gives me such comfort because I am easily discouraged, often wondering if I'm going in the wrong direction or somehow got off track.  It also is quite assuring to know He has such a kind and tender way of drawing me in, especially when I'm feeling vulnerable and hurt.  Yes, my Shepherd is sensitive enough to know what I need when I need it.

As I walk through the dark valley, I am comforted by the staff of my Shepherd.

When I put my life in Jesus' hands, I will not avoid suffering.  Instead, as He leads me through hard times, I am constantly under His watchful eye, have the assurance of His rod of protection, authority and power, and the comfort of knowing His staff is there to care for me, draw me closer, and guide me when I feel insecure.  There are many benefits to trusting in my Good Shepherd as He leads me through the dark valleys of life.

As I begin this day it is my prayer that I can trust Jesus enough to believe He is there for my protection.

When do I fear the hard stuff, forgetting that I have a Shepherd to comfort me?

How am I resisting His rod of discipline?

Not Lacking a Thing

"The LORD is my shepherd;

I shall not want."

Psalm 23:1 ESV

They were my grandmother's dying words; a reflection of her contentment in Christ, her readiness to meet her Shepherd face-to-face, a message spoken by stroke-damaged lips that told all was well with her soul.

Psalm 23 is perhaps the most familiar of Scripture passages.  It is often memorized by children, quoted by those in trouble, and even used as a kind of mantra to calm the anxious heart.  Instead of glossing over it as I tend to do with that which is familiar, what if I took the words to heart?

If I follow the Lord as my shepherd, how will that change my attitude?

Squelches Ambition.  While my husband served in the Army, he often said, "Stay in your lane."  Sometimes it was a way to train a young soldier who tried to impress by taking on more than his own responsibilities, or it served to remind a driven co-worker who was a back-seat driver of sorts, giving everyone advice about their jobs while neglecting his own.  Each soldier was assigned a specific task to focus on and things ran smoothly when everyone stuck to his or her own duties.

Similarly, I've been given limited duties to accomplish as a follower of Christ who has a Father who loves and cares for me.  While I tend to run after what I want and need, it is my purpose to obey Him as I focus on the kingdom work He has set before me while it is God's job to provide for what is necessary for living (Matthew 6:31-33, Ephesians 2:10).

So, when I begin to make decisions based on need, God could say to me, "Stay in your lane; that's My job!"  Or when I try to make ministry happen, He could remind me that putting all the pieces together in just the right time is His area of responsibility.  Or when I try to promote myself, getting my name out there so my gifts can be used in the way I think they should be used, He could reign me in as I step into His realm of duty.

Following the Lord as my shepherd squelches my natural-born ambition.

Ceases Worry.  I lay awake, mulling over the day's activities, rehashing every conversation and scrutinizing each decision.  Was it the right thing to say?  Did I hurt her feelings?  Maybe I should have done something else instead, or waited a little longer, or turned right instead of left.  Sheesh!  Then I just want to say to my brain, let it be, would ya'?  I'm trying to sleep here!

Worry comes in many forms but at its base it is focused and continuous thought, usually on a real or potential problem.  The original meaning suggests to "seize by the throat and tear" or to "harass."  Anxiety does tend to choke the life out of me, pestering me relentlessly until my health deteriorates and I have no peace.

If I have a Shepherd who is my Protector (Psalm 46:1), offering a safe place from that which will harm me, my Provider, supplying all I need and much of what I want (Matthew 6:8, Matthew 7:11), and my Guide, showing me the path He set aside for me to follow, what is there left about which I can worry (Hebrews 12:1)?  He has taken care of it all.  The only variable, then, is my willingness to let Him.

Following the Lord as my shepherd ceases worry that naturally plagues my mind and harasses my heart.

Delivers Contentment.  When I was a child, I loved Barbie dolls and would play with them for hours.  My friend Denise and I would live imaginary lives vicariously through this family of dolls who would travel to exotic locations, go on wild adventures and sometimes do ordinary chores that I dreaded doing in real life.  If you wanted to give me a gift, there was nothing I'd adore more than a new Barbie or one of her accessories.

If you tried to give me such a gift today,however, I would not have the same reaction.  My tastes have changed and my priorities have shifted.  The things my heart desired as a child are not what I still want as an adult.  

It's the same in my faith walk.  When I first trusted in Jesus, I was still quite rooted in the world.  As I submitted to Him, He began to change my priorities, shift my values, and challenge my practices.  As a result of this slow transformation process, I do not think the same way today that I did when I first committed my life to Christ.  As I delight in Him, He has given my heart new desires that line up more closely with His (Psalm 37:4).  He is changing my perspective in order to align it more with His.  He is in the process of conforming me into the image of His Son (Romans 8:29).

Therefore, I tend to be more content today with what God decides to give me.  While as a baby Christian I may have had an idea of what I thought I needed (and still sometimes do!), letting God choose for me has produced a new sense of gratification in the things of God and His kingdom.  More and more I find myself realizing that there is nothing I need apart from what God gives.

Following the Lord as my shepherd delivers a new kind of contentment as I realize He has my best interest at heart.

Living in a world that cultivates selfish ambition, anxiety and discontent, I must remember I have a Good Shepherd.  If I intentionally decide to follow the Lord, He will squelch this ambition, cease the worry, and deliver contentment.  Then I will not lack a thing as the Lord is my Shepherd.

As I begin this day it is my prayer that I can trust God to lead me well.

When do I run after what I think I need?

How am I spending time thinking about what I want instead of being thankful for what I've been given?  

  

Inward Focus

"Then the Jews led Jesus from Caiaphas

to the palace of the Roman governor.

By now it was early morning,

and to avoid ceremonial uncleanness

the Jews did not enter the palace;

they wanted to be able to eat the Passover."

John 18:28

They were so concerned with their own holiness.  They went to great pains to study God's law, interpret it, create rules to help others follow it and supervise the adherence to it.   Their devotion to God's law was astounding.

Many looked up to these Jewish leaders as the epitome of godliness.  Most thought they were the ones to emulate.  It was assumed these men knew God Himself, so holy were they.  Unfortunately, the people of Israel who believed these things about their leaders were wrong.  Jesus said to these same men, "If you knew me, you would know my Father also." (John 8:19)

If they had paid more attention to the One who wrote the laws instead of obsessing over the law itself, God would have opened their eyes to the Messiah.  Instead, they found themselves fighting against God and being used by Him to fulfill scripture regarding Jesus. (Isaiah 6:9-10, John 12:37-41)

In the same way, I can get caught up in religious ritual, timeless tradition, and stubborn beliefs.  When I make these my god, I forsake the One who died a criminal's death on the cross so that I might get to know my Creator.  Instead of walking with Him throughout my day, I spend my time trying to figure out how to please Him, working on my character so that I can look more like Jesus, or doing things that seem like godly activities in which to take part.  When I do follow Him, however, He leads me down paths of righteousness for His namesake. (Psalm 23:3)

From the outside, I may look holy and godly, just like the Jewish leaders, but God holds an inward focus.  How do I stack up inside?

Heart

She tried so hard to worship God.  Looking around her on Sunday morning, she mimicked the behavior of those deemed acceptable and who looked like they had it all figured out.  They told her to just let go and allow God's Spirit to well up inside of her; to free her body to praise God in however He leads.  She tried, but somehow she never felt what they described.  She must be doing something wrong.  She loved God but she felt like a failure.  Why can't I just worship Him?

God is meant to be worshiped with my whole being in the way I live my life. (Romans 12:1) Since God is the lover of my heart, He doesn't care so much about what I do, what I wear, where I go or who I befriend.  His focus is not on the outward appearance, but on what is going on inside my heart.  He wants me to be so attentive to Him that I don't care how it looks on the outside.

To some it may appear I'm falling away from God because I stopped coming to Bible study to make time to hang out with drug addicts, I started bringing questionable characters with me to church on Sundays, and I got a tattoo.  

These believers may judge me, thinking that I'm turning away from God and trying to make it seem like I'm still following Christ.  In reality, God is leading me to reach out to "sinners" by frequenting places unbelievers hang out.

In Matthew 15:9, Jesus quoted the prophet Isaiah in criticizing the wrong focus of the "church people."  He said, "These people come near to me with their mouth and honor me with their lips, but their hearts are far from me.  Their worship of me is made up only of rules taught by men." (Isaiah 29:13)  God desires my heart to be fully devoted to Him.  This doesn't mean I must be perfect, only that wanting to know Him and follow Him would be my greatest longing.

I must be warned, however, that when I start letting God transform my mind and mold my way of thinking, I will look strange to everyone else.  Only those whose hearts are aligned with God will understand; everyone else will try to talk me out of the path I'm taking, telling me that I'm off.  As Peter said to the Sanhedrin, "We must obey God rather than men!" (Acts 5:29)

In order to avoid the trap of shallow worship, I must devote my heart to knowing and being known by Jesus.

Cleanliness

I have noticed lately my country's obsession with cleanliness.  There are constantly new products on the market to kill bacteria, fight fungus and stop the spread of germs.  We are encouraged to clean the old-fashioned way, clean with new-fangled gadgets, or clean the easy way.  Whichever method I choose, I'm getting the message that clean is good.

While they're is nothing wrong with cleaning, I find it interesting that people are so passionate about outward cleanliness but have no problem with all the filth that penetrates the hearts in their homes.  Network television is filled with shows that degrade families, promote pornography, encourage promiscuity and endorse the gay lifestyle.  The Internet is widely accessible in most homes and filled with garbage that is embraced as entertainment.  

The minds of most Americans are constantly bombarded with dirt.  As Angus Jones, actor who plays "Jake" in Two and a Half Men and recently went public with his belief that a true God-fearing person cannot be on a television show like that, said, "Please stop watching it.  Please stop filling your head with filth."

If I want to be truly concerned with my cleanliness, I must be concerned with what goes in, not just what's on the exterior. (Proverbs 4:23)  I can't just look good on the outside.  When David confessed his sin against God in taking Bathsheba, Uriah's wife, as his own, he cried out to God, "Create in me a clean heart, O God, and renew a steadfast spirit within me." (Psalm 51:10)  

It's not enough to look good, but a heart devoted to Jesus will be changed and grow sensitive to sin.  When this begins to happen, I'll only desire things that honor God instead of being willing to allow filth into my heart.  My motives will be pure, dropping the ulterior motive of my own comfort, pleasure and entertainment and be completely concerned with pleasing and honoring God.

In order to avoid the trap of focusing only on appearances, I must let Jesus guard my heart as the wellspring of life.  

Holiness

Some people believe it is possible to live a life free from sin.  They think God's Spirit enables me to live a holy and pure life.  Oswald Chambers says of this, "The holiness movements of today have none of the rugged reality of the New Testament about them.  There is nothing about them that needs the death of Jesus Christ.  All that is required is a pious atmosphere, prayer, and devotion. . .Yet the New Testament is about the work of God and nothing else. . . The Spirit of God does in me internally all that Jesus Christ did for me externally."

I am not called to be holy for my own purposes.  I am called to live in obedience to His Spirit who is within me so that I can glorify God.  I resemble His character when I'm dedicated to Him, not to my own sanctification.  Chambers shed some light on the difference when he said, "The New Testament example of the Christian experience is that of a personal, passionate devotion to the Person of Jesus Christ."

When I see someone suffering who has been ostracized by the medical community and other believers as "crazy," Jesus compels me to reach out and comfort.  When I am drawn to a group of cursing, drinking teens, Jesus compels me to share His love.  When my neighbors' children are out of control, Jesus compels me to offer support.

A focus on my own character development would not drive me toward these uncomfortable situations.  Only a devotion to Jesus Himself would give me the desire to do these kinds of acts as I'm more concerned with God's glory than my own reputation or status.

In order to avoid the trap of being driven by a quest for personal holiness, I must be more concerned with the glory of God. 

Religion requires an outward focus and is an empty, bottomless pit filled with traps of all kinds.  Three I must avoid as I follow Jesus are worshiping superficially, cleaning outwardly, and seeking to improve my own reputation.  Instead, I can live with the desire to please God in all things, protect my heart from the filth of this world, and seek glory for God alone.  In so doing, I will discover the joy in walking at peace with Jesus.

As I begin this day it is my prayer that I can keep my focus inward instead of only concerning myself with how things look on the outside.

How do I clean up the outside, but neglect to protect my heart from filth?

When am I more concerned with my own entertainment than in protecting me and my family from things that dishonor God?

Plain Love

"'Though I have been speaking figuratively,

a time is coming when I will no longer use this kind of language but will tell you plainly about my Father.

In that day you will ask in my name.

I am not saying that I will ask the Father on your behalf.

No, the Father himself loves you because you have loved

me and have believed that I came from God.

I came from the Father and entered the world;

now I am leaving the world

and going back to the Father.'

Then Jesus' disciples said,

'Now you are speaking clearly

and without figures of speech.'"

John 16:25-29

Every day she told him she loved him.  Not a day went by when she didn't express her love to her husband.  She thought of creative ways, big and small, in which she could show her devotion to the love of her life.  As his wife, she thought it her duty to help him become a better person.  She took it upon herself to gently point out where he could improve and what he could change to grow as a husband.  In her mind, their marriage was a good one; strong and loving.

Her husband, however, saw things differently.  He never felt accepted by his wife.  She always said she loved him, but she didn't respect his point of view or his beliefs.  It seemed she thought she was right and he was wrong, she was good enough and he was only tolerable.  Somehow, he just couldn't win with his wife.

Acceptance is a big part of love.  God, as the essence of love Himself, knows how to love unconditionally.  (1 John 4:8)  He loves me just the way I am, not waiting until I become who I should be before He'll take the risk of loving me.  No, His love is based on His character, not on my worthiness.  (Romans 5:8)

In the same way that the sacrifice Jesus made in dying on the cross for my sins demonstrates God's love for me, the sinner, I can show my love for God by accepting Jesus as my Lord and Savior.  Placing my life in the hands of Jesus proves my love for God.  Only a sincere love would enable such faith.

I can only hope to love because God first loved me, and His love gives me the ability to love Him back.  (1 John 4:19)

Access to God

I remember when President Bush paid a visit to Ft Lewis when my husband was stationed there as a soldier in the U.S. Army.  I was given the opportunity to attend the event held in his honor where hundreds of soldiers and family members gathered inside a hangar eagerly anticipating his arrival.  After his speech, he exited the stage and made his way in front of the crowds.  Since I was in the second row, I was able to reach my hand out and receive a quick handshake.  Some people tried to say a few words, but the Secret Service agents pushed the president along swiftly.  

If I had wanted to receive a few moments to speak to the President, I would have had to go through specific and strict protocol, receiving permission from staff and undergoing a thorough background check.  Only after obtaining approval, would I get to talk to the most powerful man on earth.  Even then, it would be on certain terms and under a specific timetable.

Unlike world leaders, God is completely accessible to me as His child, at any time and any place.  I do not need special permission and clearance before I'm allowed into His presence.  As one who has accepted His Son as the One who was sent by God to deliver me from eternal damnation, I have full right of entry to the throne of grace. (Hebrews 4:16)

This means when I'm in trouble, I need not hide from Him but can accept the forgiveness and mercy He freely offers.  (Hebrews 10:19-23)  As one who can approach the holy God directly, I need not lose hope when all seems lost but can receive encouragement when I stand before Him.  If I need answers or assurance of my salvation, I can go frankly and honestly to Him and He will give me the truth.

When I love God through faith in Jesus Christ, I am granted direct access to God Himself.

Sonship

The door of our home is always open to anyone in our community who needs encouragement, love or the hope that Jesus offers.  For this reason, there are many who feel comfortable and at home in this house.  Sometimes, children will stop by our house for a hug and kind word even before they head home from school.  Because of the love of God, our house feels like home to a lot of people.

As much as others experience a sense of belonging when they walk across the threshold of this house, no one but family members can open up the refrigerator and grab a snack, or take the car keys and go for a ride.  There are some privileges that are meant only for family members.

In the same way, as a child of God through faith in Jesus Christ, I have been given the rights of a family member. (1 John 3:1)  I have the hope of being made into the very image of Christ Himself at the appointed time.  In the same way that I follow in an older sibling's footsteps, desiring to emulate them in all the ways that I admire, I am called to walk as Jesus walked.  Not, as sometimes I try to do, in my own strength and with my own understanding, but in the power of His Spirit who lives within me.  As I follow Him, He leads me down the narrow path that leads to life.  (Psalm 23:3, Matthew 7:14)

As an adopted child of God, I also have the responsibility to live my life in a way that honors God.  (Romans 11:17)  I do not mean that I need to try to be perfect or that I should attempt greatness for His sake.  What I do mean is that every part of my life should be tainted by His love.  As I look at those around me, I am to view them through His lenses and allow His love to flow through me.  In this way, He gets the glory for my life.   

Even more importantly, no area of my heart is to be off limits to my Father, and no secrets should be kept from Him.  Instead, I am to live as an open book before Him, granting Him full access to all of me.  As I live in this way, when others observe my life they will praise their Father in heaven.  (Matthew 5:16)

When I love God through faith in Jesus Christ, I am granted all the rights and responsibilities of a child.

Understanding

There are some things people outside of my family don't understand about us.  They don't get the weird nicknames we have for each other, or our tradition of keeping Sunday as a family day of rest.  They also don't comprehend our inside jokes and have no appreciation of the things that make us laugh the hardest.  Some things are only for family to understand.

In the same way, children of God have received revelation regarding the things of God.  As we read His Word, His Spirit teaches, enlightens and ministers truth.  Only those who are getting to know God through faith in Jesus Christ can truly understand God's intent of scripture.  As I move through life, He shows me what I need to know at the time I need to know it.  

Conversely, if I did not have the benefit of the Holy Spirit to guide me, the Word of God would make little sense to me.  It would seem dry, out of date and irrelevant to my life.  Instead, it is the bread of life (Deuteronomy 8:3), the power of God (Romans 1:16) and never returns void but accomplishes what God intended. (Isaiah 55:11)  This comprehension and appreciation comes from God.

Jesus tried to explain this concept to the Jews who did not accept Him as Messiah.  He said that they did not understand what He was teaching because their father was the devil. (John 8:43-44)  We tend to listen to whom we follow.  If I am committed to God through faith in Jesus, then I'll recognize His voice and understand His teaching.  If, however, I am bent on living my life my own way, to please myself and maintain control over my own life, then my father is Satan who is the ruler of this world.  I can't live for me and live for Jesus, it just doesn't work that way.  (Matthew 12:30)

When I love God through faith in Jesus Christ, I am granted understanding of His Word through the power of the Holy Spirit.

If I claim to love God I will accept His Son as my Lord and Savior.  When I enter into this relationship of faith through grace, I am granted direct access to God, the rights and responsibilities of sonship  and the understanding of Holy Scripture.  In this way, His love will be made plain in my life, both to me and to those who observe me.

As I begin this day it is my prayer that I can take advantage of the free admittance I have to my heavenly Father's throne and keep close to Him.

When do I live as God's enemy instead of as His child?

What am I hiding from God that I'm afraid He'll be disappointed or angry about, even though He already knows all about it?