Fountain of Youth

"My son, do not forget my teaching,

but keep my commands in your heart,

for they will prolong your life many years

and bring you peace and prosperity."

Proverbs 3:1-2

As a culture, Americans are obsessed with youth and how to ward off the inevitable effects of aging.  We try creams, treatments and healthy regimens, but does it really matter?  Is the condition of our skin of earth-shattering importance?  

Another concern is our warped value system.  We place so much emphasis on wealth and status, sending the message that the state of our bank account will determine future survival.  But does money have the power to give us contentment? Or long life?  Or are we barking up the wrong proverbial tree?

There are many areas which seem so important to us.  We invest our time and effort in them, believing their importance is vital.  Yet often we neglect a more lasting source of goodness.  Let's dig in to Proverbs 3 to find the answers we need in today's misleading and deceptive world.

Good Reputation.  I tend to be a people pleaser.  I didn't think this was a problem for me until recently when God moved it onto my radar, as He tends to do (Psalm 139:24).  Now I'm hyper-aware of how much I hunger for affirmation from man, assurance of my worth from others, that little pat on the back that tells me I'm important and necessary.   It turns out I can enjoy a good reputation among man, but I'm going about it the wrong way.

Instead of trying to gain the favor of man through my efforts, God says I'll find this benefit if only I cling to love and faithfulness.  I can make it a priority to treat others with mercy and kindness while purposefully turning away from my natural inclination to focus on my own needs and wants, resisting the drift toward cold-heartedness that comes from living in this callous and uncaring world (Proverbs 3:3-4).  God's love and grace is already flowing in my veins through faith in Christ.  It is my duty, then, to let if pour out to others.  It's easy to hog it all up for myself, but His love and grace is meant for all.  When I let go of my stingy, selfish tendencies, God's mercy and kindness will gush forth like an internal spring (John 7:37-39, Psalm 23:6).

Making mercy and kindness my hallmark will result in a good reputation among man and favor from God.

Good Health.  There is an endless array of supplements claiming to contain the secret to longevity and wellness.  I can spend time and money on special juices and cleansing treatments, fasting weekly in order to rid my body of harmful toxins.  Dutifully, I put in my time in the gym, doing the required amount of exercise in order to ward off deterioration of many kinds.

There is a better way.  While there are many ways to seek good health, only one comes from my Maker.  If I want to know how to find healthiness, it makes sense to seek out the advice that comes from the One who carefully put me together (Psalm 139:13). So what does God, my Creator, say is the secret to health and good nourishment?  Trusting Him with all my heart.  Resisting the urge to rely on what makes sense to me, or to think I must understand it in order to believe it, or to put my own insight above my confidence in God as my only hope. To recognize His sovereignty.  Allowing God to choose what's best for me.  To worship Him in the way I live my life.  To shun evil, staying away from it in every form.  These are the secrets to good health (Proverbs 3:5-8).

The road to good health is found in my reverence of and faith in God, not in all the things I think I'm so smart to do for my own benefit.

Good Provision.  I always want more.  My eyes are often focused on the future; things will be better when I have ___________.  When my bank account is up to this level, life will be better.  When I've acquired this level of income, things will be easier.  When I pay off this debt, then I can give more.  Then I reach that goal and things aren't as good as I thought.  Instead, I'm focused on reaching the next level.

I will never find contentment in what God is currently providing until I honor God with my money (Proverbs 3:9-10).  Making it my priority to worship God by giving Him the best and first of all I have will result in a new heart attitude.  Suddenly, what I have will be more than enough as I find myself appreciating all the ways He has blessed me materially.  Instead of wanting more, I'll discover the wealth that is already mine.  While this is not some kind of formula where I give to God and I can expect Him to give even more back to me, I can trust Him to spoil me with His unlimited resources when I honor Him with my finances.  There is no greater indicator as to my true faith in God as my Provider than in how willing I am to tithe and give offerings.

I will find contentment when I honor God with my money as He opens my eyes to His generous nature.

There are many ways to go after what the culture says is important and will bring happiness.  If I want true joy, however, I need look no further than Jesus.  As I learn to walk with Him He teaches me to find wisdom in Scripture.  There I find that a good reputation comes when I honor the love and kindness He lavishes upon me by letting it flow out to others, that good health results in my willingness to trust in God alone, and that I will find contentment in the material blessings He gives me when I worship God through tithes and offerings.  God's Word is never wrong.  If I want to find the secrets that far surpass the fountain of youth, I need look no further than the wisdom of Scripture.

As I begin this day it is my prayer that I can pay attention to what God is teaching me through His Word.

When do I spend more time researching cures than I do in taking God's advice to heart?

How am I lacking in faith as evidenced by how little money I give back to Him?     

Proof of His Love

"Give thanks to the LORD, for he is good.

His love endures forever.

Give thanks to the God of gods.

His love endures forever.

Give thanks to the Lord of lords:

His love endures forever."

Psalm 136:1-3

I read the words on the page proclaiming of God's amazing, enduring love, but how do I know it is real?  How do I know He loves me?  I mean, really know deep in my heart without a doubt?  How can I take a risk to place my entire life in His loving hands, trusting that He won't hurt me, exploit me or let me down?  It takes faith.  

Here is some evidence of His great love to bolster my faith.

Great Wonders.  Standing under the expanse of sky that crisp, clear night, I am struck by the enormity of the universe and of my own tiny, insignificant life.  In comparison to all the twinkling stars I see sprinkled throughout the dark canvass above me, I realize there is a great Force at work in this world who has created unimaginable wonders, things I can barely comprehend let alone try to mimic: Oceans teaming with wildlife, a plethora of flora and fauna waiting to be discovered, a sun whose rise and fall I can set my watch to, and the moon whose glorious glow, in the words of Clement Clark Moore, gives "the lustre of mid-day to objects below."  (Psalm 136:4-9)

And the conclusion the psalmist draws from recognizing such wonders?  "His love endures forever."  A God who would grant such glorious gifts to His most prized possession, His beautiful image bearers, is the God of a permanent kind of love of which I can never lose.  I am secure in the love from a God such as this.  If He can perform such miraculous, creative wonders, is there anything He will not do out of His great love?  Nope, nothing is off-limits to such a loving God!

One of the most compelling pieces of evidence pointing toward God's enduring love is all of creation of which I am an integral part.

Salvation.  There is a track record of salvation written throughout the pages of scripture.  God is continually at work saving His people (Psalm 136:10-16).  Sometimes its the oppression of sin and fear that holds me down, compelling me to call out to the One whose sword can free me from the guilt and anxiety that often comes with living in a fallen world.  Other times its the so-called impossible situations I often face which send me to my knees where I find delivery from what I once labeled as my lot in life.  Then there are the times when I'm confronted by the ugly monsters of life, the giants that bully me into submission, giving me cause to cry out in desperation to the God who fights these overwhelming battles on my behalf.

And the conclusion the psalmist draws from remembering such salvation?  "His love endures forever."  A God whose heart is inclined toward the suffering of His people produces the kind of love on which I can count.  His love will never let me down, and there is never a time when I cannot cry out to Him and expect Him to ride in on His great white stead and rescue me from my present danger.

One of the most compelling pieces of evidence pointing toward God's enduring love is His willingness to rescue me.

Sovereignty.  Protection.  Provision.  Blessing.  Rescue.  Despite my unfaithfulness to a God who is in complete control, He still chooses to remember me, to see me in my current situation, to comfort me in all my troubles.  His authority over all things is often forgotten as I go about my day, attempting to feebly protect my wounded pride with coldness of heart, guarding against every conceivable disaster with insurance and money in the bank, and struggling to rescue myself from the stresses of life by using my own twisted methods of coping.  I find myself failing miserably, yet He never writes me off as a lost cause, always ready to use His sovereign power for my benefit.

And the conclusion the psalmist draws from realizing such perfect authority over all things?  "His love endures forever."  A God who is completely in control of all things yet yearns for me to willingly submit to His perfect plan for my life is a God whose love can be trusted as safe, faithful, and abundant.  He does not need me, yet He wants me.  And not just parts of me as I so often tend to give, but all of me; every nook and cranny of my heart.  

One of the most compelling pieces of evidence pointing toward God's enduring love is His sovereignty over all things yet willingness to be a personal part of my seemingly insignificant life.

It's sometimes hard to believe anyone, let alone the God of the universe, could love me.  He is all-powerful, all-present, all-knowing; why would He care about me?  The beauty of this God of all gods is that He is made of love.  And the proof of His great love is written throughout His creation, found in the way He chooses to save me, and in His sovereign power that is used for my good.  This is some evidence of His love which can propel me forward into His waiting arms.  Why wait another minute?

As I begin this day it is my prayer that I can trust my whole life to such a God as this.  

How do I hold out on God, unsure of His love for me?

When do I doubt His love despite the fact that there is evidence everywhere?  

His Face Shines

"Restore us, O God;

make your face shine on us,

that we may be saved."

Psalm 80:3

My life lies in a precarious balance, so dependent upon the mercy of God am I.  Do I realize how fragile is this day I often take for granted?  How I assume the sun will rise up over the horizon in glorious splendor!  I step out of bed each morning at the beckoning of my alarm, not thinking twice that I've been given such a gift as another day to live.  My routine comforts me as I prepare my tea and tidy the house, but Who is it that hold my life in His hands?

It is my desire that I adopt the attitude of Asaph who realized how desperately he needed the restoring presence of the Lord.  I want to really grasp how much one fraction of a beam of His Light can return my life back to what He meant for me to be.  All I need is Him, and I will be saved.

Leadership.  Jesus was moved to compassion whenever He saw the crowds that desperately reached out to Him for help.  They wanted to hear the truth of the Good News, they longed for connection and craved healing of all sorts.  He saw them as sheep without a shepherd, eager for a leader they could trust to give them guidance and direction (Matthew 9:35-38, Mark 6:31-34).

I, too, am like those people who flocked toward Jesus as He walked the earth.  I need guidance and direction, and like in times of old, I have that leadership in Jesus Christ.  He is my Good Shepherd who came to lead me down paths of righteousness for His namesake (John 10:11-16, Psalm 23).  He shows me the path of life and helps me negotiate it's narrow, rocky way (Matthew 7:13-14).

I desperately need the leadership that comes through faith in Jesus Christ.

Belonging.  I go to great lengths to try to belong, to fit in somewhere.  It is human nature to desire a family of some kind.  Some find this place in a gang who claims to care but is rooted in blood and power.  Others look for belonging at work, attempting to connect with co-workers who may be only looking out for their own best interest.  A few marry quickly, in need of making a family with the first one who shows interest, only to find there is nothing to bind them together and strife becomes their hallmark.  

All of mankind needs some kind of relationship, a connection with another living being in order to survive.  Even Grizzly Adams, the based-on-real-life television character who lived out in the wilderness alone, had his menagerie of creatures to give him a sense of companionship.  

No matter where I live or the direction in which my life goes, through faith in Christ I have this belonging.  I am His and He is mine, adopted into His family as His well-loved child (1 John 3:1, Psalm 100:3).  As such, I am part of a group of other believers from all walks of life who share my love for our Father.  Despite how things may look as we go through life together, we are a royal family who is well-cared for by the King of kings and Lord of lords.

I desperately need the sense of belonging that comes through faith in Jesus Christ.

Provision.  I like to think I'm fine on my own, able to take care of myself, thank you very much.  I appreciate Someone caring enough to look out for me, but I often think there are some things I'd rather handle on my own.  I've fooled myself into believing I'm good at providing the things I need for life.

In reality, He gives me all I have (Psalm 8).  I used to think this thought was ludicrous.  When I reviewed my life, it occurred to me that I drove myself to work every day where I earned money to buy the things I needed and came back to the house I rented and kept clean and filled with the necessities of life.  I just didn't see where God fit into the picture.  Over the years, He opened my eyes to the reality of my dependence upon Him, whether I know it or not.  I realized that without Him, I couldn't even take the next breath let alone get out of bed and start my day.  This is my Father's world, and without Him, there is nothing for me to stand upon, no life to live, no heart to beat (Psalm 19).

I desperately need God's favor that comes through faith in Jesus Christ and gives me each moment of life and all that is necessary to continue living.

Like the psalmist, I desire God's face to shine on me because I know He is my only hope for restoration in this broken world.  I need His leadership, the belonging, and the provision of His sovereign hand that all come through faith in Jesus Christ (John 14:6).  My life is in His hands, but there is no other place I'd rather rest!

As I begin this day it is my prayer that I can trust God with every detail, knowing that He is more than able to take care of me.

When do I hold back, attempting to do things on my own instead of letting God provide in the way He desires to care for me as His child?

How am I bent on self-sufficiency instead of dependence?       

Difference a Name Makes

Salvation is found in no one else,

for there is no other name under heaven given to mankind

by which we must be saved."

Acts 4:12

My husband's name is pretty sweet-sounding to my ears.  I perk up when I hear the names of my mom, dad or sisters since they are important parts of my life.  When my daughters' names filter into my brain I sit up and take notice.  There are some names that stand out to me.

The name that is above all other names, however, is that of Jesus.  As my Savior and Lord, He has made all the difference in my life.  How so?  I'd love to tell you!

Forgiveness.  The name of Jesus has introduced the concept of forgiveness into my sinful life.  Since I have no hope of saving myself from the punishments my sins have earned me, the blood of Jesus has delivered the forgiveness of a holy God straight to me. (Matthew 26:28)  This means that instead of an eternity of suffering and separation from True Love, I am now ushered into a kingdom where the King is also my Father.  (1 John 4:8, Romans 5:15-17, 1 John 3:1)

Since I have been given such a wonderful gift through grace, I am empowered to pass it on to others.  This forgiveness is not just mine to hoard and treasure.  No!  Mercy was bestowed upon me so that I could bear with others in love, letting go of their shortcomings in the same way my transgressions have been removed far from me.  (Psalm 103:12, Ephesians 4:32, Colossians 3:12-13)  This power can transform relationships and mend bonds between even enemies!

The name of Jesus makes a difference in my life, supplying forgiveness where once there was only condemnation.

Provision.  Everyone else runs after what they need, scrambling to provide for their own life's requirements as well as that of their family's.  They run themselves ragged making sure needs are met.  Nights are spent agonizing over columns of numbers with the hopes that investments made are enough for retirement.  Most of their waking hours are dedicated to these worries of everyday life.

As one who has called upon the name of Jesus, however, I have a different focus.  Instead of being concerned with what I need, I am free to invest in God's kingdom, spending my waking hours on pursuits that will last an eternity.  How am I able to be free from the cares that keep others up at night?  Because of what Jesus has done for me, I have a Father who knows exactly what I need and who is faithful to provide those necessities. (Matthew 6:31-33) 

Therefore, the decisions I make during the day do not revolve around how I will pay the bills, put food on the table or take care of my family.  Instead, my attentions are on the things God values like pouring His love into a hurting world and delivering the saving message of the Gospel to all in need of hope.  Then I trust God to give me everything I need for life.

The name of Jesus makes a difference in my life, giving me a Father who is faithful to meet my needs.

Hope.  Cancer.  Bankruptcy.  Divorce.  Infidelity.  Scandal.  Terrorism.  Living in this fallen world is a struggle and downright unbearable at times.  When it seems like everyone is against me and things will never go right for me, it is easy to give up hope, wondering what is the point of getting up each day.  If all I had was what I could see around me, I would be miserable indeed.

Thankfully, there is much more to life than what I face on a daily basis.  Due to the sacrifice Jesus made for me, I have been given the hope of eternity with Him in a place made specially for me.  (John 14:2-3)  I have much to look forward to; treasures that surpass anything I could attain here on earth! (2 Corinthians 4:16-18)

The name of Jesus makes a difference in my life, granting me hope where otherwise there would be none.

Some names are just more precious to me than others.  None, however, compares to the One by which I am saved:  Jesus.  Through Him I have been granted forgiveness that can be passed on to others, the gift of a Father who takes care of me in ways I never could, and the hope of heaven.  All this is given freely through faith in Jesus Christ, the One whose name makes all the difference to me!

As I begin this day it is my prayer that I can treasure the name of Jesus.

When do I lose hope when nothing seems to be going my way?

How do I run after what I need instead of letting God provide?   

Him Who Called

"Because he was very thirsty,

he cried out to the LORD,

'You have given your servant this great victory.

Must I now die of thirst

and fall into the hands of the uncircumcised?'

Then God opened up the hollow place in Lehi,

and water came out of it.

When Samson drank,

his strength returned and he revived.

So the spring was called En Hakkore,

and it is still there in Lehi."

Judges 15:18-19

He was known for his wild outbursts, passionate tantrums and violent ways.  It seemed he couldn't control himself, often killing many in the course of one of his rampages.  He's not my idea of a leader that could be respected nor admired.  In my opinion, he was a selfish, immature man with serious anger issues.

Nevertheless, Samson was chosen by God to lead the people of Israel for 20 years.  Why would He set apart such an aggressive, cruel man to serve as their judge?  God intended to use such a man to bring judgement upon the Philistines and deliver His people from their enemy's hand. (Judges 13:5) 

As much fault as I can find in this man of strength who was bent on revenge, I can admit that Samson knew, at least in some small way, from where his strength came.  After killing 1000 men with the jawbone of a donkey, he became very thirsty.  Instead of drawing from his own resources, he cried out to the One he knew as the Source of all good things and the Provider of his needs.  Therefore, the spring God made in response became known as the "spring of him who called."

Likewise, I can be known as one who calls in my time of need.

Strength

I can't go on, its just too much.  It doesn't take much for me to reach the end of my rope.  Even small frustrations or stresses can deplete me of my own resources.  Living life in my own strength is an exercise in futility.

When I admit my need for God's strength and cry out to Him in desperation, He comes through, enabling me to take another step.  The prophet Isaiah reminded God's people of the wisdom of relying on His strength. (Isaiah 40:28-31) God doesn't get tired or run out of steam like I do.  Therefore, I can go to Him at any time and draw from His stores of power to accomplish what is impossible for my measly means.

Sometimes that means I'll soar to new heights, feeling like I'm on top of the world and can accomplish anything.  Other times His strength gives me that extra oomph I need to finish well.  Then there are the times when He enables me to simply keep putting one foot in front of the other.  

These are the times when I feel most inadequate and like I'm not good for much of anything.  In reality, I'm bringing glory to Him as I rely on His strength to keep me from giving up.  Persevering and resisting the urge to quit often takes the most power of all.

When I rely on God to supply the strength I need to carry on, I am leaving a legacy as one who calls upon the Lord.

Provision

Some call it "the rat race."  Day after day the routine is the same:  Get up, get dressed, get out the door, fight the traffic, find a parking spot, rush to the office, labor all day, get in the car, go home, go to bed, do it all over again.  Life can consist of a constant struggle to provide for my needs and those of my family.

While most would not consider this as much of a life, it is the reality for many.  For those who follow Christ, however, there is so much more.  I was made for a purpose that goes far beyond surviving.  Instead, He created me to thrive, doing meaningful things that impact eternity.  (Ephesians 2:10, John 10:10)

When I focus on pursuing what I think I need, however,  I lose sight of my true purpose.  Instead of fulfilling the purpose for which I was made, I become focused on things that hold no eternal value.  I spend my time making sure I have enough provisions, stocking up on savings to make sure my future is secure, and building my reserves so I have something to fall back on.

While I'm working so hard to provide for my own needs, I am missing out on the good things God has saved up for me.  I am forgetting I have a Father whose desire is to provide for me in ways I never imagined and who wants nothing more from me than my heart. (Ephesians 3:20,Matthew 6:31-33) While I'm wearing myself down in my pursuit of happiness, He is waiting for me to let Him give me my heart's desire. (Psalm 37:4)  Trouble is, I'm too busy trying to go after it myself.

God made me to focus on higher things. (Matthew 6:33) Instead of acting like those who do not know their purpose, I must live like I'm here to give God the glory for the great things He is doing in my life.  Instead of pretending like I'm left to fend for myself, I must live like I've got a Father who lovingly and faithfully provides for my needs.  Instead of getting caught up in the temporal,  I must live like the eternal is what is most valuable. 

When I rely on God to supply for my needs, I am leaving a legacy as one who calls upon the Lord.

Love

 It is the calling card of those who follow Jesus, the mark that sets me apart from the world, the sign of Someone's presence in my heart.  Love.  It is patient, kind, intent on protecting, trusting, hoping and persevering.  It isn't boastful or proud, dishonoring to others or easily angered.  Instead of seeking what's best for self, love looks out for the best interest of others.  Love rejoices when what is right and true prevails, never celebrating an injustice, even if its done to an enemy.  Love never fails.  (1 Corinthians 13)

This kind of love cannot be found in the world, nor is it available in my own darkened heart.  Instead, the love described above only exists in the Lord.  He is love, and He is my only source of love.  There is no way I can generate the kind of love God emits; it only comes from Him. (1 John 4:7-8)

Therefore, if I want to love as He has called me to love, I must draw from His deep well that flows through my life when I'm connected to Him.  When I make the effort to drum up some kind of compassionate feelings toward another, I'll fall short.  Only in relationship with the Source of love will I find myself able to care for others.  

When I rely on God to supply the love that is to be my hallmark as a believer, I am leaving a legacy as one who calls upon the Lord.

I am flawed in many ways, much like the infamous Samson.  While God used the man of strength in a way that fulfilled His sovereign purpose, He can use me similarly.  In order to leave a mark in this world that will last, however, I must rely on God for my strength, to provide for my needs, and to supply the love that I am called to show.  In these ways I'll leave a legacy as one who calls upon the Lord, the Giver of all good things.

As I begin this day it is my prayer that I can make it my goal to bring glory to God in all that I do.  

When do I run after my own needs instead of letting God choose what's best for me?

How am I guilty of relying on my own meager strength when I could be drawing from His unending stores?

Hallmarks of His Hand

"Then the whole Israelite community

withdrew from Moses' presence,

and everyone who was willing 

and whose heart moved them

came and brought an offering to the LORD 

for the work on the tent of meeting,

for all its service,

and for the sacred garments."

Exodus 35:20-21

Everyone I asked to be involved said, "Yes."  Businesses were eager to sponsor the event.  Necessary approvals were easily received.  All the details fell into place.  It was clear that God was behind this neighborhood outreach ministry.

When God calls me to do something for Him, He moves the hearts of the people, giving them a willingness to freely join in.  In this way, all needs are met and His will is done.  How do I know if a service is from God or simply an idea of something I want to do?  Here are some hallmarks to look for when God has His hand in a ministry.

Willingness

The king spoke and everyone jumped into action.  His word alone was enough to transform the usually peaceful palace into a frenzy of activity.  People were eager to make his dreams reality.

In the same way that a leader's subjects are willing to do his bidding, so those who belong to Christ are ready to help bring about His purpose and plan in this dark world.  When I'm involved in carrying out His plan, He supernaturally sends people who have a deep desire to help without compulsion.  No one has to twist their arms, convince them of the importance of the service or promise some kind of reward.  Instead, people commissioned by the Lord want to join in with what He is already doing.

This spirit of willingness also takes on another dimension when I examine the life of a saint.  There are some believers who do amazing things for God, yet they are ordinary people just like you and me.  What is the difference between a great evangelist and me?  Or a humble missionary who adopts dozens of children and me?  Or a powerful speaker who touches the lives of many with God's Word and me?  Willingness.

All it takes for God to use me to do amazing things in His kingdom is a willingness to be His vessel.  When I am available for His use, He fills me up with everything I need to accomplish His mission. (2 Timothy 2:21)  Submitting myself to God and His will for my life means I let Him transform me and use me in the ways He sees fit.  I no longer think it's up to me to accomplish anything, but believe with all my heart that it's Him working through me.  Then I can walk forward in confidence, knowing without a doubt He will get His way in my life. 

A spirit of willingness is a hallmark of God's work in my life.

Hearts Moved

I couldn't believe my ears; the vacuum was running upstairs.  Who would be vacuuming?  The chores have already been done and I didn't ask anyone to do any cleaning. Curious, I climbed the stairs to investigate.  Much to my surprise, I found my daughter, a young teen at the time, tidying up her room.  I asked her why she was doing that and she replied, "I just felt like cleaning."

In the same way that my daughter was inspired to do some work in her room, God can give me a desire to do a certain thing.   When I've accomplished the mission He's put on my heart, I will realize it wasn't with my own strength that I did the work, but it was God who was working in me and giving me the power and the desire to do things that please Him.  (Philippians 2:13)

As God continues to move the hearts of His people, I will find that others will join in with me, having caught the same inspiration as I.  Each gift falls into place, weaving together to create a beautiful tapestry of service to the Lord.  In this way I will be assured that this vision is from the Lord, and therefore His name will be glorified.

God moves the hearts of His people to work in one accord to accomplish His will, bringing glory to His name.

Needs Met

As a child, I never questioned where the money would come from to pay the bills, or how we would have enough food, or if the car would make it through the week.  Instead, I lived carefree, going to school and playing with my friends.  There was nary a worry on my mind.

Once I grew up and had a family of my own, however, my mindset changed.  I began to wonder if we'd be able to pay all the bills, if there would be enough food to feed our family, or if an unexpected car repair was on our horizon.   I no longer was confident that my needs would be met.

As one who has been purchased by the blood of Jesus, I can be assured that He will meet all my needs according to the glorious riches of God. (Philippians 4:19)  When I sense His calling into a certain mission or ministry, then, I can move confidently, knowing that He will fill every one of my needs.  

I will find people volunteering to do what needs to be done, covering every necessary task and providing materials that are required.  Therefore, I need not worry about how everything will be accomplished but simply give God time to meet my needs.  He knows better than I what is necessary to carry out His will and only He has unlimited resources.  (Matthew 6:31-33, Psalm 50:10)

Knowing that all needs will be met frees me up to focus on the important business of loving, encouraging, teaching, serving and nurturing people.  This is the advantage of having a heavenly Father with unlimited resources who is looking out for me.

When I am doing His business, I can depend on God to meet all the needs necessary for accomplishing the task at hand.

Sometimes its hard to know if I'm being obedient to God's calling in my life or if I'm simply trying to do things for Him.  I will know when it's from God when people are willing to join in, hearts are moved in the same direction, and needs are met.  These are the hallmarks of the mighty hand of God as He works in the lives of His people.

As I begin this day it is my prayer that I can move forward in confidence, knowing that God will give me what I need to do what He's called me to do.

When do I try to force something forward instead of letting God drive my service?

How am I guilty of worrying how needs will be met?

My Father's Kingdom

"Do not be afraid, little flock,

for your Father has been pleased to give you the kingdom.

Sell your possessions and give to the poor.

Provide purses for yourselves that will not wear out,

a treasure in heaven that will not be exhausted,

where no thief comes near and no moth destroys.

For where your treasure is,

there your heart will be also."

Luke 12:32-34

The little lamb follows her shepherd, taking comfort when he uses his staff to gently guide her along the path.  Suddenly she comes to a fork in the road and becomes confused, wondering which way she should choose.  One way looks promising, wide and smooth with lanterns lighting the way.  The other route is rocky with a tight entryway and nary a foothold as it takes travelers along the edge of a harrowing cliff.  She looks to her leader and his smile brings her comfort.  He enters the narrow path and she follows willingly.  (John 10:14, Matthew 7:13-14)

Following Jesus as my Good Shepherd means He will lead me on paths of righteousness for His namesake. (Psalm 23) To those around me, my choices seem foolish and risky, but to me there is no other choice if I want to walk at the side of my Lord.  I can take heart that He has given me the kingdom, if only I'd be willing to enter it.

Let Father Provide

My family is in the middle of a crisis of faith.  You see, God has called my husband to step back from his college studies and focus completely on his business.  This will mean less income for a time because we will no longer receive the educational support he earned during his 24-year Army career from the Veterans Administration.  God has also called us to take a leap of faith and pay for our daughter's college expenses so she won't rack up any student loans.  In a nutshell, we have less income but more expenses.

We could easily solve this dilemma with common sense and worldly wisdom.  My husband could let his business go since its not bringing in much income and get a job working on the nearby military installation where he would earn a regular, steady paycheck.  I could also try to get a job to bring in some extra earnings.  If we did this, our bills would be paid and life would be pretty easy.  Unfortunately, it also means our hearts would be in turmoil as we thought of all the youth my husband would no longer be working with and encouraging as a part of fulfilling the mission of his business.  I would no longer work with the children in our neighborhood, disciple women or write.  In a nutshell, we would trade our calling for going after what we need.

Jesus said His sheep should not behave as the pagans do who have no Father. (Matthew 6:31-33) They spend their time working to provide for necessities because if they don't do it, who will?  I, on the other hand, have a heavenly Father through faith in Jesus Christ (John 1:12-13) who knows what I need better than I do.  I can trust Him to provide and no longer have to concern myself with the necessities of life.

Instead, I can focus my time and energy on doing what God has called me to do.  This frees my mind up to think about excellent and praiseworthy things instead of worrying about my circumstances. (Philippians 4:8)  It also gives me the time to learn more about the God who called me and of His ways instead of coming up with a plan to provide for myself.  In this way, God is my leader and I simply follow.

While I don't know exactly how God will provide for our expenses this month, He is giving us an inkling into what He is doing in our lives.  He is opening doors and we are confident He will supply our needs at just the right time.

In the kingdom my Father has provided I need not worry about how I'll get by, but instead purely trust Him to make available to me whatever I require to live.

Sell Possessions

Stacks of newspapers lined the hallways of her home.  Every available space was filled with stuff.  Clothing, knick-knacks, appliances, and all manner of possessions were crammed into the overcrowded house.  There was nowhere to sit, or even to stand comfortably.  This was not a home, it was a storage space.  

While I may not go to the extreme lengths as someone who hoards, I do tend to want to save things for future use.  My friend always tells me that when I buy a new piece of clothing, I should always give one of my old garments away so that I never have too much.  This goes against my naturally tendency to make sure I have enough.  For instance, if I find a great buy on something I use often in cooking, I want to buy it and store it for future use, thankful that I won't have to buy that certain item for the next few months.  

While its not bad to plan for the future, this way of thinking tends to be a tad self-centered.  God has given me a kingdom where He is the King and I am His daughter.  I need not worry about my own welfare but can instead pay attention to what breaks His heart.  Is there someone who is suffering and could use that food I purchased on sale?  Maybe those towels that are taking up space in my closet would be of better use hanging in the bathroom of the single mom who lost everything in a fire.  It could be that the man who rides the bus to work everyday and struggles to take care of his family could use our second car more than my family could.

As I follow my King, He will show me how to use the stuff He has provided for His glory.  He will also show me how to give away some of my emotional baggage.  I tend to lug around fears, doubts, the desire to control and many other excess burdens that hamper my ability to trust God.  Giving away these possession makes room for more of His Spirit to inhabit my being, resulting in His Fruit being more evident in my life.  (Galatians 5:22-23)

In the kingdom my Father has provided, I don't need to hold onto any physical or emotional possession, but can let them go in order to rely solely on Him.

Make Eternal Investments

We have seen it happen over and over again:  A man puts his all into becoming successful.  He reaches the pinnacle, earning all the trappings of a victorious life and it seems he has it all.  Then, one day he shockingly takes his own life in despair, unable to live any longer with the emptiness within.  To the astonishment of all those around him, the pain within himself was more than he could handle.  The life he had worked so hard to attain was not the life that satisfied his heart.

There is no doubt about it, I will reap what I sow.  (Galatians 6:7-8)  If I spend my time going after things I think will satisfy me, my life will end in death and destruction.  If, however, I dedicate my life to pleasing God and following Him step by step, I will be rewarded with an abundant life for all of eternity.  The two frames of mind cannot coexist in one philosophy.  Either I live for me, or I live for Christ: I can't have it both ways.

Living for Christ leads to life eternal.  When I trust in Jesus as my Savior, His blood covers all my sin making me appear holy and blameless before a Holy God.  As I commit my life to Him, making Him to be the Lord of my life, my own desires and wants begin to fade away.  Over time, there is less of me and more of Him.  I begin to desire to build up more of the treasures I will find in heaven: Things that are important to God like mercy, grace and love.  Gone are my desires to be exalted and I find myself wanting only my Father's rights to prevail.

Making an eternal investment also means I stop living my life based on my feelings and pay more attention to God's leading.  Every once in a while I'll get to see the views from the mountain tops where everything seems to exist as it should be and it all makes sense.  In an instant, I'm so close to God I can practically touch Him.  I feel ecstatic; as if I could do anything.  But, as Oswald Chambers said, we can't live on the mountaintop.  Instead, he said, "We are built for the valley, for the ordinary stuff we are in, and that is where we have to prove our mettle."

I can't live my life based on how I feel.  I have to take on the power to descend to the wilderness and rough it out for His purposes.  I must trust that He has a plan, especially when I feel  uninspired, stressed out or in the depths of despair.  God is still God, despite my circumstances, and when I focus on the investments I am making that will last for all eternity, I'll have the strength to go on.

In the kingdom my Father provided my desires or feelings do not determine my path but I instead sow seeds that will bring forth heavenly fruit.

There is so much to fear in this world, but when I keep my eyes on the Good Shepherd, He will lead me down the path toward life.  As I travel through His kingdom I learn that my Father provides all my needs if I will only let Him, I can travel light and spend my time doing kingdom work, and I can invest in eternal treasures that will bring glory to God.  My Father has already given me this kingdom.  When I enter in, I find my heart is focused wholly on Him and discover that it's a great place to dwell!

As I begin this day it is my prayer that I can stop going after my needs and simply do as God is calling me to do, no matter how risky it seems.

When do I use my common sense to make decisions instead of looking to my Shepherd for guidance?

How am I afraid to follow the narrow path because it seems so dangerous?