Miraculous Rescue

"So Peter was kept in prison,

but the church was earnestly praying to God for him.

The night before Herod was to bring him to trial,

Peter was sleeping between two soldiers, 

bound with two chains,

and sentries stood guard at the entrance.

Suddenly an angel of the Lord appeared

and a light shone in the cell.

He struck Peter on the side and woke him up.

'Quick, get up!'

he said, and the chains fell off Peter's wrists.

Then the angel said to him,

'Put on your clothes and sandals.'

And Peter did so.

'Wrap your cloak around you and follow me,' 

the angel told him.

Peter followed him out of the prison, 

but he had no idea that what the angel was doing was really happening;

he thought he was seeing a vision.

They passed the first and second guards

and came to the iron gate leading to the city.

It opened for them by itself,

and they went through it.

When they had walked the length of one street, 

suddenly the angel left him.

Then Peter came to himself and said,

'Now I know without a doubt that the Lord

sent his angel and rescued me from Herod's clutches

and from everything the Jewish people were anticipating.'"

Acts 12:5-11

The woman's heart was suddenly changed and she gave her husband another chance.

The debt was forgiven, relieving the family from the financial burden and answering many prayers.

The son who had been deeply involved in the occult and addicted to drugs turned his life over to Christ.

The man had always believed there was no God, until God showed up and captured his heart.

God is sovereign, all-powerful, loving, gracious, merciful, just. . .but He is also supernatural.  His character transcends the natural world where everything can be explained by the laws of physics, mathematics, time or other scientific principles.  

When I drop a pencil, for instance, the law of gravity tells me that it will fall toward the ground.  If God so desired, however, He is perfectly able to supersede that rule and stop the pencil in mid-air.  God is not bound by His own creation nor the laws man has written to describe how His creation works.

As a result, there is nothing God cannot do.  As the angel Gabriel told Mary regarding her supernatural conception of the Christ child, "For nothing is impossible with God." (Luke 1:37)  This truth impacts my life in a powerful way.  There is no burden too great, no predicament too complicated, no circumstance too great that my God cannot rescue me from it.  God is able to supernaturally intervene in order to deliver me in many ways.

Unshackle

She always believed she was no good.  In her heart, she didn't think she would ever amount to anything.  I can't do any better than what I'm doing now.  I am incapable of rising out of the pit my life has become.  There's no hope for me.

I can relate.  For much of my life, I've struggled with insecurity, a low self-image along with doubt.  Deep down inside, I didn't think I was worth the struggle.  God, however, does think I'm worth a fight, and He pursues me until I surrender my life to Him.  When I do, He begins to supernaturally change the way I think about myself.  He shows me that I am precious in His eyes, created in His image and here for a purpose.  (Zechariah 2:8, Genesis 1:27, Psalm 139:13-16,Ephesians 2:10)

As a child of God through faith in Jesus Christ, I am infinitely valuable to my Father.  As a sinner who has fallen into all sorts of destructive ways of thinking, the fear, doubt, anger and disappointment land me in a kind of prison.  I am powerless to release myself from these chains of bondage that hold me back from becoming the woman God has created me to be.  Only God can free me from these areas of oppression.

An unshackled woman of God can walk freely in the grace of God, forgiving others as I've been forgiven.  A woman released from bondage can walk boldly into the future, free from fear and doubt.  A liberated woman can walk forward without the burden of anger, resentment or bitterness to weigh me down.  Only God can release me from my shackles by the work of His mighty hand.

God is able to supernaturally intervene in my life, releasing me from the chains that bind me.

Provide Direction

Younger generations of late struggle with a lack of direction or sense of purpose. In short, many young men in this modern age refuse to grow up.  Their mind-set is that of an adolescent where the main focus is of pleasure and avoidance of responsibilities.  So prevalent is this problem that psychologists have dubbed it the, "Peter Pan Syndrome."

While I may not suffer from this syndrome, I do struggle with a lack of direction at times.  There are situations which seem so overwhelming that I don't know how to get out of them.  Which way should I go?  I am in debt up to my ears, my marriage is not what I thought it would be, I am lonely with no deep human connections and my life is shallow and without meaning.

Only God can give me a clear sense of purpose.  I may not know all the steps I need to take, but He will lead me bit-by-bit in the direction that will get me out of the seemingly hopeless situation in which I find myself.

Peter found himself in an impossible predicament.  He was guarded closely by a soldier on either side, bound with two chains and locked inside a prison cell that was guarded by sentries.  What could he possibly do to escape?  It turns out, all he needed to do was follow the clear orders of the angel God sent to bust him out of prison.

While I may not have the privilege of being led by an angel, God does give clear direction through the guidance of His Holy Spirit.  When I listen for Him, I'll sense His leadership as He guides me through my day and the difficulties I encounter.  As a result, the insurmountable pile of debt will suddenly seem less of a threat.  Hope will appear in the midst of what had seemed impossible.  Friendships will be forged where once there were none and my life will take on great significance.

God is able to supernaturally intervene in my life, providing direction down the path He has for me.

Grant Freedom

She wasn't sure if she was good enough to make it into heaven so she did all she could to prove her allegiance to God.  She passed out tracts explaining the gospel to all she met.  She tried to do at least one good deed every day.  She looked for ways to help others.  Still, she was afraid she wouldn't measure up.

When I follow Jesus, His yoke is easy and His burden is light. (Matthew 11:28-30)   He doesn't expect me to constantly follow all the rules in the Bible, keeping a list in my back pocket for easy reference.  Instead, He wants me to follow Him. (John 15:5-8)  In so doing, I will not break any of the rules in the Bible and I will please God.  (Galatians 5:18)

Then I will be free of the burden of trying to be good enough.  The truth is this: no one who ever lived was good enough to make it into heaven based on their own merit.  (Romans 3:23)  My only hope of entering into a relationship with God and to live with Him forever is to accept the free gift of salvation that comes through faith in Jesus Christ. (Acts 8:12)  Jesus took the punishment that was meant for my sin; for all the times I fell short of God's standard.  Because of His sacrifice, I am free from eternal death, and instead have eternal life to look forward to.

Due to this unimaginable gift, I am not only free from trying to earn God's love, but I am also liberated of the hold that sin has on me.  I am no longer bound to do as my nature dictates. (Romans 6:18)  When anger rises within, I have the option of letting God dispense justice so I can walk in peace.  For the times when I'm tempted to worry, I have the option of trusting God to take care of my needs.  As lust for an attractive man coaxes me to take another look, I have the option of submitting myself to God and the commitment I made to my husband.  The blood of Jesus gives me power over sin.

God is able to supernaturally intervene in my life, granting me freedom from earning salvation and the power of sin in my life.

There are many situations I face in my life that seem impossible.  With God, the supernatural Being to whom nothing is impossible, I can be released from the shackles that tie me down, receive direction to escape a hopeless situation, and accept freedom that I otherwise would never experience.  Only God is able to accomplish these kinds of miraculous rescues.

As I begin this day it is my prayer that I can walk in the light where Jesus is.

What impossible situation do I face without giving God a chance to work?

When do I feel hopeless instead of asking the supernatural God for help? 

Evidence of Grace

"The Lord's hand was with them,

and a great number of people believed 

and turned to the Lord.

News of this reached the ears of the church at Jerusalem,

and they sent Barnabas to Antioch.

When he arrived and saw the evidence of the grace of God,

he was glad and encouraged them all

to remain true to the Lord with all their hearts."

Acts 11:21-23

This world is evil.  Every time I read the newspaper, log onto the Internet, or turn on the television, I'm bombarded with confirmation of the darkness that seems to prevail.  Murder, scandal, corruption, immorality of every imaginable kind, abuse, greed and apathy rule the headlines and run rampant in the lives of those around me.  It's easy to get discouraged, thinking there is nothing good in all the world.

The truth, however, shows me that there is evidence of the grace of God all around me.  Every breath I take is a gift from my Father in heaven, the giver of all good things.  He fills the world with beauty simply to give me joy.  The laughter of children, love between a husband and wife, and hope for eternal life available through the precious gift of salvation found in Jesus Christ all stand as proof of the Creator's kindness and mercy.

Perhaps the most powerful proof of God's benevolence is in the way He moves in the hearts of the ones He created in His own image.  Witnessing His supernatural work in the lives of people is a call to remain true to the Lord in the way I live my life.  But how do I do this?

Grace

I am a woman, wife, mother, friend, writer, teacher and encourager, but the one piece of my identity that I must constantly keep at the forefront of my mind is that I'm a sinner saved by grace.  Forgetting this vital part of who I am leads to judgementalism, arrogance and Pharisaical thinking.  

The Pharisees were a group of Jewish men during the time Jesus lived on earth as a human who were considered to be experts in the law God gave to Moses, and zealously enforced the keeping of that law.  They probably thought they were helping others to do what God had said to do, but in their enthusiasm, they lost sight of the God whom they should have been trying to please.  Instead, they became convinced of their own piousness and were sensitive only to the sins of those around them.  

As a result, Pharisees were criticized by Jesus for their hypocritical, shallow and religious ways. (Matthew 23:13-36)  In order for me to guard against this kind of natural progression in my attitude, I must keep my true identity in mind:  Without Jesus, I am simply a sinner destined for Hell who is unable to do anything good and am powerless to save myself.

Jesus, who is God in the flesh and worthy of all honor and praise, is to be exalted through all the nations, deserves to remain in His rightful place at the right hand of God the Father and receive all respect and glory.  Instead, He came to earth as a mere baby, born as a lowly carpenter's son and grew into a man who was easy to overlook; common and homely.  (Isaiah 53:2-3)

Even though Jesus knew that the treatment He would receive from those He created would be cruel and bring nothing but sorrow, He came anyway.  He lowered Himself to such a humble position in order obey the Father He loved.  (Philippians 2:5-11)

In the same way, I am to think of obeying God above all things.  Keeping a humble attitude by remembering my true identity is key in developing a heart that wants to please God through obedience.

I can remain true to the Lord by keeping an attitude of humility as I remember my dependence on the grace of God.

Faithful

It is said that dog is man's best friend.  As the owner of two Lab-mixes, I can see why this saying became prevalent.  A dog is faithful to a fault, staying true to his master even unto death.  I have heard of a dog standing guard at his owner's gravesite, unwilling to move from the side of his friend.  Canine loyalty and devotion is legendary.

I can learn something from my doggy friends.  Remaining faithful to Jesus as the author and perfecter of my faith is fundamental to my ability to please God.  (Hebrews 12:2)  I just can't please Him in my own effort.  I can try to produce fruit, but change that lasts only comes from Him. (Galatians 6:22-23) I can work hard to convince others of the truth of the Gospel, but no one can see their need for Jesus apart from the Father's influence.  (John 6:44)  I can study the Bible all the days of my life, but until I'm led by His Spirit, it just won't make sense. (1 Corinthians 2:10)

God is a powerful God who has accomplished amazing feats of wonder.  The most amazing deed He has completed is to reconcile sinful man to Himself; a holy, righteous God.  He did the impossible through the sacrifice of His Son Jesus Christ.  In so doing, He made a way for me to receive all that He has planned for my life if I'll only faithfully walk with Him.

As Oswald Chambers said, "All the great blessings of God are finished and complete, but they are not mine until I enter into relationship with Him on the basis of His covenant."  He has already done His part.  All that is left is for me to accept His invitation and join with Him.  When I do this, I will see transformation that could never occur apart from Him.

I can remain true to the Lord by staying faithful to Jesus Christ as my bridge to Him and the source of true power in my life.

Focus

One of my daughters is a college student who has a hard time keeping on task.  She has many interests that can distract her from the job of studying and completing assignments.  To help her stay focused, she makes a written plan for each day and refers to it often.

It's not so different for me in my walk with the Lord.  There are relationships, jobs, duties, hobbies and pastimes that can draw my attention away from Him.  It's easy for me to get off track as I chase a new interest or pursue an activity that brings pleasure.  Other times I'm thrown off with worries that send me down a path of seeking security.  Then there are the times I just get plain ambitious in trying to make a name for myself or to succeed in my career.  Whatever the means, the result is the same: My attention is diverted from my One True Love.

Staying true to my calling and keeping on task means I'll have to readjust my focus.  If I'm paying attention to the outcome of my effort, the things that I need, or the problems that life brings, I'll wander away from the Lord.  But if I keep my mind tuned to God's kingdom, He'll take care of producing fruit, providing for needs and solving issues while I grow closer to Him.  (Matthew 6:33)

The Apostle Paul knew there was nothing worth pursuing in life that was worth his time apart from staying true to what Christ had called Him. (Acts 20:24)  Anything else was considered to be a waste.

I can remain true to the Lord by keeping focused on God's Kingdom and what He is calling me to do.

Even though I live in a dark world, the evidence of God's grace is all around me, if I'll only pay attention.  Once I do, I'll be inspired to stay true to My Love by remembering I'm saved by grace, stay faithful to Jesus, and do whatever it takes to keep my focus on His kingdom.  It is then that the evidence of grace will also be written all over my life.

As I begin this day it is my prayer that I can be encouraged by God's mighty hand.

When do I forget who I am and start to focus only on the sin of others?

How am I easily drawn away from Jesus?

No Favoritism

"Then Peter began to speak:

'I now realize how true it is that God does not show favoritism but accepts men

from every nation

who fear him

and do what is right.'"

Acts 10:34-35

I recently attended a Christmas party at a local Christian radio station where an up-and-coming singer performed.  After the mini-concert, (or should I say time of worship?) everyone in attendance was invited to chat with the young performer.  As my family and our two young friends waited our turn, a group of boisterous women edged their way in front of us and another young family.  As the ladies were laughing and joking around with the singer, I overheard them say they were friends with one of the on-air-personalities.  It seemed they thought their connection to the radio station gave them privileges not granted to everyone else.  Their attitude was one of entitlement.

It's easy for me to carry this same attitude as one who was adopted into the family of God through faith in Jesus Christ.  (1 John 3:1)  I can sometimes get an attitude of entitlement or an expectation that I'll receive special privileges because I'm His child.  Other times, I wrongly think there is something special about me that He would choose me.  This way of thinking can lead me down the path of picking and choosing who I think would best benefit from the Gospel.

Thankfully, the truth is far from either of these sinful outlooks.  God did not send Jesus to condemn the world, but to save the world through Him. Whoever trusts in Jesus as his Lord and Savior will be saved from eternal death. (John 3:16-17)  The Gospel is not set aside for certain people who meet some kind of standard, fall into a certain category or who happened to be born into the "right" country or family.  No, there is no difference.  (Romans 10:11-13)

Jesus is Lord to all who give their lives to Him.  Because of God's charity, I can be sure there are some things on which the availability of the Gospel is not based.

Background

Growing up in a rural area outside of a small town, I had no exposure to the military.  I was more accustomed to seeing friendly farmers,  gentle dairy cows and green pastures than disciplined soldiers, polished uniforms and standardized buildings.  So, when I married an Army soldier, I was in for a rude awakening.  I had to learn the lingo, get to know the military customs and settle into a different way of life.

As a believer in Jesus Christ, I am received by faith.  My lack of experience in church, religious training or the ways of Christianity did not hamper my acceptance into the family of God.  My adoption is purely based on what Jesus did on the cross in taking the punishment meant for my sin in order to satisfy God's just nature.  There are no prerequisites or preconditions.  All it takes is the willingness to accept His free gift of salvation.

There are times, though, when I assume a person will not be interested in God's amazing gift.  I often come into contact with a brazenly open atheist who does not hesitate to share her beliefs.  She believes all religion is foolish and only for the weak-minded.  Who am I to decide that her background excludes her from the good news of Jesus Christ?  I don't know what is going on in her heart.

Other times I think someone lost in the labyrinth of alcoholism or drug abuse would be indifferent to the saving grace found in Jesus.  After all, if they really wanted to come to Jesus, all they'd need to do was set foot in one of the many churches located around my community, right?  What I'm not considering is that maybe they've never come into contact with Jesus and haven't heard the gospel.  I could be the one with the beautiful feet who would bring the good news to them. (Romans 10:15)

What if I'm turned off by someone's background in prostitution, stripping or exotic dancing?  It's easy to think that someone choosing that kind of lifestyle would never want to learn about the God who loves them.  In reality, it could be just the news they've been longing to hear.

The availability of the Gospel is not based on a person's background but on the grace of God freely offered to all who seek it.

Tradition

Christmas is a time of traditions.  Some families hang stockings over the fireplace, filling them with goodies the night before Christmas.  Others set up an advent wreath and come together for devotionals designed to keep their minds focused on the coming of the Messiah.  Many families make a night of decorating the tree, reminiscing about the different ornaments and the sentiment or meanings behind them.  I even have heard of the practice of saving the trunk of this year's Christmas tree to burn in the fireplace as a yule log the following year.  Traditions can be fun and bring meaning to an otherwise secular holiday.

Unfortunately, tradition can also be the enemy of the dispersion of the Gospel.  Some denominations get stuck in doing the same thing all the time, never letting God's Spirit lead them toward the truth.  They end up following rules made by men instead of cultivating a relationship with a living God.  (Matthew 15:9)  Other times, people get stuck on the style of worship, or the order and content of a Sunday service.  Let's face it, true worship is about the way I live my life and not what kind of songs are sung or whether we recite scripture or hear it read aloud.  (Romans 12:1)

Even if someone has gone to church their whole life, following the pattern of his or her family, they still need the gospel.  I can't assume that those who seem to follow a Christian lifestyle are, indeed, saved by the grace of God through faith in Jesus.  It is wrong for me to withhold the good news because I assume they already know.  

I have been in churches where the tradition was not rooted in the Gospel.  The lie that I must live my life in a certain way in order to make it into heaven was preached from the pulpit.  Other times I have experienced a judgmental spirit toward the way I'm dressed or in how I worship during the time of praise.

These kinds of churches do more to distract people from the gospel than to draw them to it.  Even so, God does not withhold the truth from those who are led by tradition.  They need to hear of the power of the blood of Jesus that can cover their sins if only they would turn to the truth.

The availability of the Gospel is not based on tradition but on the grace of God freely offered to all who seek it.

Culture

Some western missionaries had the habit of going into a foreign region to spread the gospel, but mistakenly thought the natives needed to be westernized before they could be acceptable to God.   

Thankfully, the good news of Jesus is not only for those who dress, act, speak and think like I do.  When I gain a respect for all people who God created in His own image, He will incline my heart toward those who are lost, no matter where they're from.

Each of us carries some kind of culture bias.  I am naturally drawn to those who look and sound like me.  God, however, does not operate in such a manner.  He loves the diversity of His creation, otherwise He wouldn't have designed us that way.  Therefore, I would be wise to carry the same kind of attitude.

I once heard a young missionary couple speak on their upcoming assignment by God to serve in China.  The wife spoke of how she had no desire to go to that particular country, and even expressed a dread at the impending trip.  God, however, changed her mind, giving her a heart for the people of that country.  She ended up cherishing the time she shared with those open and loving people.

If that young woman had retained her bias against that foreign culture, those young people would have had to hear the gospel through some other means.  But because of God's great mercy, He transformed her mind and gave her a desire to share the gospel with them, herself receiving a tremendous blessing.

The availability of the Gospel is not based on culture but on the grace of God freely offered to all who seek it.

Jesus came to save all of mankind.  Unfortunately, its easy to close off certain people because of their background, tradition or culture.  Once I come into relationship with Jesus, however, He will give me a heart to share the good news with everyone I meet.  Then I will become more like God who does not show favoritism. 

As I begin this day it is my prayer that I can keep an open mind when it comes to sharing the gospel.

How do I assume some people will not accept the good news?

When do I hinder the spread of the Gospel because of my attitudes or beliefs?

  

Nothing Sweeter

"The Spirit told Philip, 'Go to that chariot and stay near it.'

Then Philip ran up to the chariot and 

heard the man reading Isaiah the prophet.

'Do you understand what you are reading?' Philip asked.

'How can I,' he said,

'unless someone explains it to me?'

So he invited Philip to come up and sit with him. . .

Then Philip began with that very passage of Scripture 

and told him the good news about Jesus.

As they traveled along the road,

they came to some water and the eunuch said,

'Look, here is water.  Why shouldn't I be baptized?'

. . .and Philip baptized him."

Acts 8:29-31,35-36,38b

I remember riding on a tandem bike with my husband.  He took the front position while I sat in back.  What I didn't realize until after we started riding was that my husband had all the control.  He had the ability to steer and brake while all I could do was sit there and pedal.  My forward vision was also impeded by his body, making my ride an exercise in frustration.  

I learned an important lesson about myself that day: I like to be in control.  When I don't have any power as to where I'm going, how fast I'll get there and when I stop to take a break, I feel helpless and discouraged.

Even though I like to think I'm in control of my life, as well, God is perfectly sovereign. As a follower of Jesus who has been given His Spirit to live within me, I have the very power of God at my disposal.  Either I can take the front position on the bicycle built for two that is my life, or I can let Jesus have that place.  When I do follow His lead, I'll find some interesting things happening in my life.

Direction

There is an interesting team-building game where a partnership of two attempts to negotiate an obstacle course together.  The hitch is that one person is blind-folded.  The other team mate verbally gives instructions to where her partner should go to reach the goal.  

"Take two steps to the right.  Now stop!  Step up about 6 inches to clear the bar that is right in front of you."  If the guide gives poor directions without enough detail, the team won't reach the finish line.  If the blind teammate doesn't follow what she's being told to do, the team won't succeed.  

It's similar with me and Jesus.  I am essentially blind.  I don't know the plan God has for my life (Jeremiah 29:11), I can't see the obstacles that are in my path, and I don't know what's best for me.  These are details I must leave to my sovereign God.

When I do commit to follow Jesus step-by-step, I will find that He gives clear directions.  As I stay rightly related to Him, I'll begin to know which direction He wants me to travel.  My life will take on a sense of purpose and meaning.

What used to seem like pointless, empty drudgery now becomes a God-appointed ministry.  Where I once struggled with where I fit into the scheme of things, I now feel assured of my place in this world.  For all the times I dreaded the work week, now I look forward to seeing all the things that God will do in the days to come.

As I let God's Spirit lead me, I will find He brings direction to my once aimless life.

Opportunity and Power

The Apostle Paul understood from where he received the anointing that enabled him to preach so convincingly.  He knew it wasn't his background, because he once was the enemy of Jesus and even went so far as to persecute the followers of Christ.  He knew he couldn't rely on his formal training, because he learned the good news and immediately started preaching, without any instruction on the ins and outs of the gospel or strategies on sharing the truth.  What Paul did know was that the power of God could transform a life and supernaturally provide what he needed to accomplish the mission to which God had called him.

Paul said, "My message and my preaching were not with wise and persuasive words, but with a demonstration of the Spirit's power, so that your faith might not rest on man's wisdom, but on God's power." (1 Corinthians 2:4-5)  If I admire someone who God uses in a mighty way, I must transfer that esteem and appreciation to the indwelling Spirit who equipped that believer.  God can do amazing things through me, as well.  All it takes is my willingness to be used, and faith to let Him have control.

Oswald Chambers, author of My Utmost for His Highest, put it this way: "If in preaching the Gospel you substitute your clear knowledge of the way of salvation for confidence in the power of the Gospel, you hinder people getting to Reality."  I should be careful not to think it's my ability to understand the truth clearly, but rather my reliance on the power of God to convey that truth through me.

God was angered when Moses wouldn't trust Him to deliver His people from slavery as He proclaimed He would through a broken, flawed man.  Moses thought his own weaknesses and failures would get in the way of God doing what He said He would do.  God put things into proper perspective my asking, "Who gave man his mouth?  Who makes him deaf or mute?  Who gives him sight or makes him blind?  Is it not I, the LORD? Now go; I will help you speak and will teach you what to say."  (Exodus 4:11-12)

I am not expected to depend on my own abilities, training, knowledge or strength to do what God is calling me to do.  When He gives direction in my life, I can trust Him to provide the power to accomplish it so that He will receive all the glory.

As I let God's Spirit lead me, I will find He brings opportunity and power to back up His calling.

Fruit

I once inadvertently cut a branch off a Crepe Myrtle bush in my yard.  I was so upset because the plant was loaded with buds that were about to bloom.  I watched that discarded limb, hoping the flowers would still blossom, but instead everything withered until it was nothing more than a dead twig.  There was so much potential, but it could not come to fruition disconnected from the plant.

In the same way, Jesus said we can do nothing apart from Him.  (John 15:5)  When I stay connected to my Lord, letting Him direct me and provide the opportunities and the power needed, then my life will reflect the goodness of God:  Lives will be saved, faith will be awakened, change will come.

All of these good things will occur as a result of the power of God in my life.  There is nothing I can do in my own effort to bear fruit.  I can try to emulate those who walk with Jesus.  I can volunteer for every need that comes available in my church.  I can make an effort to love the unlovable around me.  Until I submit my life to Jesus, however, and keep Him as my Lord as well as my Savior, I have no hope of bearing fruit that will please God.  

As I let God's Spirit lead me, I will find He brings fruit to bear through His supernatural work in my life.

Following Jesus is not about me trying to look like a good Christian.  Instead, its about me bringing my life into submission, giving Him the opportunity to lead me down the path of righteousness for His namesake. (Psalm 23:3)  As I do this, I'll find the Holy Spirit will grant me direction, opportunity to show His power, and fruit that will last in His Kingdom.   It is then that I will see that there is nothing sweeter than deciding to follow Jesus.

As I begin this day it is my prayer that I can follow Jesus every moment and not get distracted by insecurities or difficulties.

How do I forget the power that I have at my disposal and only concentrate on my weaknesses?

When am I most afraid to step out in faith?  

Don't Resist the Holy Spirit

"You stiff-necked people,

with uncircumcised hearts and ears!

You are just like your fathers:

You always resist the Holy Spirit!"

Acts 7:51

All the believers were gathered together, making for a motley crew crowded into a single home.  Suddenly, what sounded like a violent wind storm swept through the group, only the air wasn't moving.  Perplexed, everyone looked around at each other, wondering what was happening.  The sound seemed to be coming from above but there was no place from which to flee the cacophony within the house; the din was everywhere.

All at once, a great fire came down from the ceiling, dividing itself into separate tongues of flames, each one resting upon a believer.  A great sense of power filled each person and they mysteriously received the ability to speak in other languages.  When outsiders gathered to investigate the sound, they wondered at the wide range of tongues coming from these people.  How could they each hear the message in their own language, as diverse as the onlookers were?  Some thought these believers must be drunk, but what had really happened was that God had sent His Holy Spirit upon those who trusted in Jesus as their Lord and Savior.

I have the very power of God living within me in the form of God's Spirit.  Even so, it is easy to get into the habit of resisting His direction, His guidance and His power.  How could I defy such a mighty force?  There are many ways.

Stiff-Necked

God had provided everything they needed.  They had a continuous supply of delicious and nutritious food, delivered daily to their doorsteps. (Exodus 16:13-14) Their clothing and shoes stayed in good condition. (Deuteronomy 29:5)  When they needed water, He could make it appear from a rock, or turn bitter water into sweet.  (Exodus 15:25, Exodus 17:6) God Himself led the group, giving them guidance through a pillar of fire by night and a cloud by day. (Exodus 13:21)  In essence, the Israelites had it made.

Knowing that I have everything I need does not necessarily give me a sense of contentment.  Many times I yearn for more, desiring things I don't need but suddenly think I can't live without.  My wants morph into needs in my heart.  

The Israelites were no different.  Despite the fact that God had provided everything they needed, they still had a way of focusing only on what they didn't have and not on what God had provided.  They forgot they were God's chosen people and that He promised to take care of them.  Consequently, they complained a lot.

I'm equally as stubborn and set in my ways.  If I'm used to existing at a certain standard of living, I balk at the thought of giving up some income.  If I have my heart set on a new electronic gadget, car, or house, I resist the idea of settling for less.  If I'm accustomed to being around family at holiday time but this year everyone is split up, I mope if things don't go the way I want.

God is constantly at work in and around me, but I oppose Him when His provision or effort doesn't look like what I'm used to experiencing or what I expect to see.  I fight against what He's trying to do in the way that I direct my focus.  If I look for trouble, I'll find it.  But if I look for God's hand, I also will discover how He's at work and join in with Him.  Instead of being a part of the problem, then, I'll take part in God's amazing plan for my life.  

I resist God's Spirit in my life when I insist on my stubborn ways instead of letting go of my expectations in order to free Him to work in my life without limits.

Uncircumcised Hearts and Ears

They faced a tremendous challenge.  I mammoth city loomed above them, fortified with impenetrable walls.  This metropolis stood between them and the land God had promised the Israelites.  The men were not quite up to fighting yet as they had recently undergone the painful process of circumcision.  Yes, the people of Israel were coping with quite a dilemma.

Thankfully, God had a plan and it had nothing to do with the might of their soldiers.  Instead, it had everything to do with the power of God.  He commanded the people to march around the impassable wall of Jericho one time each day for six days.  On the seventh day, they walked around seven times, blowing their horns and shouting on the seventh time.  At the sound of the trumpet blast, the walls collapsed, allowing the men to rush in and conquer the city. (Joshua 6)  The faith of God's people had given God free reign to accomplish His will.

There are powerful things God has planned for my life, as well.  Many times, however, my heart does not desire to please Him and my ears do not hear His direction.  Instead, I'm more focused on looking holy outwardly but fail to commit, or circumcise, my heart to the objective of listening to and obeying God.  

Every time I depend upon my common sense instead of seeking God's will, I'm guilty of the same.  When I use my intellect to come up with a solution instead of leaving it in God's hands and paying attention to His direction, my heart is far from Him.  During the times when I betray my lack of faith by worrying about tomorrow, God is not glorified in my life.

The Apostle Paul explained this idea of setting my heart upon God as opposed to striving to look like I follow God.  He said, "A man is not a Jew if he is only one outwardly, nor is circumcision merely outward and physical.  No, a man is a Jew if he is one inwardly; and circumcision is circumcision of the heart, by the Spirit, not by the written code.  Such a man's praise is not from men, but from God." (Romans 2:28-29)

I can only please God when I'm devoted to following the lead of His Spirit instead of putting in the effort to try to do the right thing.  One is by the power of God, the other in my own strength.

I resist God's Spirit in my life when I depend upon my own resources instead of waiting for Him to direct me.

Generational Transfer

His father was the most evil king that ever ruled the nation of Judah.  He worshiped false idols, sacrificed his own sons in the fire in order to appease these gods.  He never turned to the one true God, even in the face of great trouble, instead opting to give sacrifices to the gods of his enemy, hoping to bring favor upon himself.  Instead, all he managed to do was draw God's wrath. (2 Chronicles 28)

Hezekiah, his son, must have worried that he'd follow in his father's footsteps.  Instead, he has the reputation as a king who did right in the eyes of the Lord.  Not only that, but it is said that there was no one like him among all the kings of Judah and that the Lord was with him, giving him success in all his endeavors.  (2 Kings 18:1-8)  Only God can break this kind of family line.

Similarly, there are negative qualities and areas of sin that have been passed down in my family from generation to generation.  It's easy to think I'm doomed to follow in the footsteps of my ancestors.  Thankfully, God is bigger than this trend.  I am not bound to do things as they have always been done.  Instead, I can step into the light of Jesus and walk in His ways.  (1 John 1:7)

The Lord gave a powerful message through the prophet Isaiah to the unfaithful people of Israel. He said, "Forget the former things; do not dwell on the past.  See, I am doing a new thing!  Now it springs up; do you not perceive it?  I am making a way in the desert and streams in the wasteland." (Israel 43:18-19)

It doesn't matter what's been done in the past.  Maybe I'm plagued with the legacy of sexual sin. It could be that I think I'm doomed to a life of depression.  I may think that child abuse and an atmosphere of fear may be my lot in life.  Letting God have His way in my life, however, means that I will experience new things; abundance where once there was shortage, joy in the place of sorrow, success instead of failure.  

I resist the work of God's Spirit in my life when I bow down to generational transfer instead of letting Him break that family cycle of sin.

The gift of the Holy Spirit is available to all those who have accepted Jesus as their Savior.  Unfortunately, there are many ways I block His work in my life.  Instead of continuing in stubbornness, relying on my own strength and doing things as they've always been done, I can walk with Him onto a new path.  As I stay close, I'll experience His power in a way I can't explain, and I'll never be the same again.

As I begin this day it is my prayer that I will let God's Spirit have His way in me.

How do I insist on getting things my way, even though God's way is so much better?

In what ways do I feel doomed to walk in the steps of my family?

Unstoppable

"Therefore, in the present case I advise you:

Leave these men alone!

Let them go!

For if their purpose or activity is of human origin,

it will fail.

But if it is from God,

you will not be able to stop these men;

you will only find yourselves fighting against God."

Acts 5:38-39

There is a nail-biting 2010 movie starring Denzel Washington and Chris Pines in which an unmanned half-mile-long freight train is barreling toward a metropolitan area.  A veteran engineer and his newbie conductor take on the task of finding a way to stop the inevitable catastrophe that's coming if the train continues on its present course.  In the end, the two men are successful in their endeavors and in so doing, form a strong bond and gain new respect for each other.

While this train was, contrary to the title, able to be brought to a standstill, God's plan is truly unstoppable.  Proverbs 21:30 reminds us that, "There is no wisdom, no insight, no plan that can succeed against the LORD."

God's purpose is inevitable.  It is not limited by man's frailties, endeavors or lack of knowledge.  God's plan will go forth despite anything His created beings do or don't do.

Man's Weakness

He was insecure, hot-headed, spoiled and prideful.  It took forty years to humble him to the point that God could use him.  When he finally did receive his marching orders from God, he still couldn't get past his own doubts. (Exodus 3-12)  

Moses was a man plagued with flaws, just like any other human.  Despite his limitations, God used him to deliver His people from the hands of a ruthless Pharaoh and lead them through the desert for 40 years.  God is not limited by my inabilities, faithlessness or insecurities.  Instead, He is a good who overcomes my weaknesses.

When I can't picture myself telling anyone about Jesus, He will give me the words when I step forward in faith.  For the times when I know I need to make a change in my life, like improving my diet, adding exercise to my routine, studying God's Word or practicing hospitality, I can trust God to empower the transition even if I've never done anything like this before.  During times of depression, God can show me His power in inexplicable ways if I only stop focusing on myself and my problems and concentrate instead on the acts of His amazing hand.

As God told the Apostle Paul, "My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness."  Paul then went on to say, "Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ's power may rest on me."  (2 Corinthians 12:9)  I will never truly realize the power of God until I'm emptied of myself.  It is then that I'l experience His mighty hand in my life.

God's purpose is not limited by my weaknesses.

Man's Effort

He was the greatest enemy of those who called themselves followers of "The Way." (Acts 8:1-3, Acts 22:4)  He conducted house-by-house searches, dragging Believers out and throwing them into prison.  He relished destroying this church, believing himself to be working on the side of God.  He gave approval to any action, including death,  that involved silencing the Gospel.  He made it his life's ambition to stop this so-called cult, that is until Jesus confronted his behavior.  (Acts 9:4)

Saul put forth his best effort to stop the work of God.  Instead of bringing the new church to an end, however, God used Saul, who became known as Paul, as an instrument to nurture, challenge and instruct His people.  Saul's greatest attempts at thwarting God's plan did nothing against His mighty power.  Instead, God turned Saul around and used his zeal for the good of God's kingdom.

Many times I have a different plan than God does.  Other times my desires stand in opposition to God's.  I can even stubbornly refuse to submit to what I know to be God's plan out of fear, doubt or pride.  No matter what, God's plan will go forth.  No one can fight against God and win. (2 Chronicles 20:5-6)

God's purpose is not limited by any effort that is contrary to His plan.

Man's Ignorance

He had perhaps the most tragic story in all of history.  In a matter of days, he lost his family, his wealth, and his health.  He went from being the greatest man living in the East (Job 1:3), to one who cursed the day of his birth. (Job 3)  

Job suffered greatly at the hand of Satan at the suggestion of God (Job 1-2).  He didn't know why he had to hurt so much, but He did trust God through it all, saying, "The LORD gave and the LORD has taken away; may the name of the LORD be praised." (Job 1:21)  He also said to his wife, "Shall we accept good from God, and not trouble?"  (Job 2:10)

Job did not have the privilege of perfect knowledge and understanding.  He had no clue of the discussion that had taken place between God and Satan.  He didn't know the suffering he was enduring was a test from God and not just some giant cosmic joke.  What he did know is that God is a good God and He is sovereign over all His creation.  He trusted that God knew what he was doing.

My inability to see the truth or understand God's plan does not stop His purpose from going forth.  Just because I'm a little slow and don't get it right away doesn't mean I'm going to hold God back in some way.  Instead, God wins out despite my lack of knowledge and understanding.

In the end, Job did not turn away from God but stayed faithful to Him.  As a result, God blessed the latter years of his life even more than he did the former.  (Job 42:12-13)   In the same way I can trust God's plan no matter how things look at this time.  It may seem all is lost, but God is at the helm of the ship of my life.

Even though I'm struggling with a lack of money, God is still on the throne.  Despite the fact that I can't understand why my health is so poor, God is still on the throne.  Notwithstanding all the family problems I'm going through, God is still on the throne.

God's purpose is not limited by my inability to understand my circumstances.

God is unstoppable.  Whatever is His plan, it will go forth despite my weaknesses, effort contrary to His purpose, or my ignorance.  God's purpose will prevail.

As I begin this day it is my prayer that I can trust God even when things seem to be falling apart.

How do I work against God?

When do I doubt God's ability to overcome my frailties?