As the Lord Commanded

"Moses did everything just as the Lord commanded him."

Exodus 40:16

When my four daughters were growing up, there was one in particular who was very compliant. Whatever I asked her to do, she would jump into action and obey.  As a result, it was a big temptation for me to pile more responsibilities on her shoulders since I knew I could count on her.  I did not, however, want to burden her with more chores and tasks than her sisters were required to do, almost punishing her for possessing a submissive attitude.

Moses developed this kind of an attitude toward the Lord.  He paid attention to detail and took seriously every instruction that came from the mouth of God.  As a result, God made sure to emphasize his obedience when recording this pivotal time when the Tabernacle was first set up.  

While it is easy to see that Moses obeyed God down to the smallest detail, he did not start off that way.  Remember that time at the burning bush?  He was anything but compliant.  In fact, I would say he was reluctant at the least, but bordering on defiant. (Exodus 3-4)  By the time Moses came around and began his journey to Egypt in obedience, God was still ready to end his life for failing to circumcise one of his sons as the Lord had commanded him to do.  (Exodus 4:24-26)

As Moses began to see God work through Him, though, performing mighty signs and wonders, his faith grew.  He learned to trust the Lord until he got to the point where he was able to take God at His word.  Let's see how he went from one extreme to the other.

Baby Steps

"Let's start at the very beginning; a very good place to start.  When we read we begin with A, B, C; when we sing we begin with do, re, mi."  

The Sound of Music is one of my favorite movies of all time.  I especially enjoy this song where the main character, Maria, teaches her charges, seven rambunctious children of a Captain of the Austro-Hungarian Navy, to sing.  As they frolic around Salzburg, Maria educates them in the basics of music.

Similarly, if I want to have great faith, I must start small.  Jesus told a parable found in Luke 16 that illustrates His desire for me to be wise in my dealings and prove myself a good steward by carefully looking after every blessing He has placed in my hands, working to get the most out of the little I have. (Luke 16:1-15)  Jesus concluded that, "Whoever can be trusted with very little can be trusted with much." (v 10)  

Therefore, if I want to be trusted with bigger responsibilities, I must show my ability to trust God in the elementary tasks. (Luke 16:10) When I am faithful to study God's Word, for instance, learning more about Him and His ways each and every day, I may be given the opportunity to teach another believer.  Once I prove myself faithful to stay close to the Lord in this undertaking, I may be given the opportunity to lead a class.  If God placed big dreams on my heart, I must realize that He will bring that vision into reality once I get good at obeying the basic callings.

Trusting God begins with baby steps.

Humbled

When Moses first stood at the burning bush, he had a hard time getting over himself.  Every time God reassured his fears, Moses would come up with another excuse as to why he couldn't do what God was calling him to do.  Moses was still at the point in his relationship with God that he thought the success or failure of this mission God was placing before him relied upon his own power, authority and abilities.

As Moses began to witness the hand of the mighty God, he came to the realization that everything relied upon the Lord and His power, authority and abilities while nothing depended upon him.  This is the point I must reach if I want to be used by God.  I must become less, and the Lord become more.

It is then that I can walk forward in confidence, knowing without a doubt that my God will supply all my needs, equipping me with all that is necessary to complete the task at hand. (Philippians 4:19)  My success or failure does not rely on me and my skills, capabilities or talents.  Rather, it completely depends upon the Lord and His endless supply of resources, His eternal spring of love, and His continuous flow of grace and mercy.  (Psalm 50:10, Ephesians 3:16-19, Lamentations 3:22-23, 2 Corinthians 12:9)

In order to fully trust God I must become less so He can become greater in me.

Willing

Our family has two lab-mix dogs.  The older one possesses an obedient spirit, while the younger would rather do his own thing.  On the rare occasion that they get loose in our yard, I can simply call the obedient dog and he will immediately trot toward me.  The willful dog, however, is another story.  When I call his name, I can see the struggle going on inside of him.  He looks toward the neighbor's yard, tempted to go explore, then glances back toward me, as if he's wondering if he should take the risk and run.  Once I offer him a treat, however, the naughty boy comes running to claim his prize.

I am not so different from my younger dog when it comes to God.  I want to obey, but there is always something that lures me away from doing His bid.  Sometimes it's doubt:  Can I really do what He's asking me to do?  Other times it's fear:  What if I do this but end up looking like a fool, or falling on my face?  Then there are the times when I simply don't want to obey.  That's not really something that sounds appealing, or it might hurt, or it could be uncomfortable.

Whatever the reason for my reluctance, the result is the same: disobedience.  Moses started out being unwilling to be used by God.  Once He got to know God better, understanding more fully His power, Moses became more and more agreeable.  The same is true with me; as I walk forward in faith, I will find God's work in my life will be in direct proportion to my willingness to be used.  

If I want to become a woman whom God can count on to obey, I will need to develop a willing spirit.

No one starts off doing everything the Lord commands.  Instead, I can expect my faith to grow as I am found faithful in the small things, humbled to the point where God can use me, and more  agreeable in my attitude.  Then I can be known as Moses was: One who does as the Lord commanded.  

As I begin this day it is my prayer that I can trust God enough to take a baby step of faith.

When am I so afraid to let go of my desire to control that I block your working in my life?

How do I let my fears control me? 

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?

The Difference

"Now it was so,

when Moses came down from Mount Sinai

(and the two tablets of the Testimony were in Moses' hand

when he came down from the mountain),

that Moses did not know that the skin of his face

shone while he talked with Him. . .

And when Moses had finished speaking with them,

he put a veil on his face.

But whenever Moses went in before the LORD 

to speak with Him,

he would take the veil off until he came out;

and he would come out and speak to the children of Israel

whatever he had been commanded.

And whenever the children of Israel saw the face of Moses,

that the skin of Moses' face shone,

then Moses would put the veil on his face again,

until he went in to speak with Him."

Exodus 34:29, 33-35a  NKJV

All eyes were upon him as Moses descended the mountain.  This time, the people of Israel had stayed strong in their faith while they waited for his return.  Instead of turning to other gods, the people waited patiently.  When they saw their leader, however, there was something different about him.

"Is that Moses?  I recognize his clothing but I can't see his face."

"Ya, it looks like a lamp."

"The light is so bright!  What happened to Moses?  Is he still human?  I can't look!"

"Me either. . .I'm not sure if I even want to get any closer."

It must have been scary to see their leader transformed in such a powerful way.  After forty days up on the mountain with God, the face of Moses shone like the sun.  Spending time with the Lord changes us, too.  Even though the difference may not be noticed in such a radically obvious way as this, there is a transformation that takes place.

Peace

My family and I found notes for weeks after she left.  Brittany, our middle triplet daughter, enjoys leaving little messages throughout the house when she is gone on a trip.  When I entered the garage one morning, for instance, I found a slip of blue paper that said, "Have a good workout!"  In the refrigerator, there was another note that said, "Have a great breakfast.  I hope you're not late for church."  It took a few days for me to discover a tiny message tucked between my sheets that bid me a good night's sleep.

These notes left by Brittany help me and my family to remember her when she's not in our presence.  In a similar way, Jesus promised to leave His followers with the gift of peace.  This serenity can exist when we stay connected to Him, despite the strife of the world around us.  The spirit of calm that rules in my heart reminds me that Jesus is my Lord and everything is going to be okay, no matter how things seem.  (John 14:27)

So, when the test results come back positive and I am facing the trial of my life, the peace that floods my heart tells me I am tenderly cared for.  Or, when there seems to be no way to dig out of the mountain of debt that weighs me down, the quietness of my heart reminds me that I have a Father who knows and meets my needs.  (Matthew 6:32-33)  Or, when the loss of my loved one seems unbearable, the underlying serenity found beneath the pain gives me the message that I will get through this time of grieving.

When I spend time with the Lord and surrender all to Him, I will come away with peace that guards my heart and mind in Christ Jesus. (Philippians 4:6-7)

Joy

It's not an emotion, but rather a fruit of the Holy Spirit.  Satan takes pleasure in stealing it from those who follow Christ.  Sin can block this gift of God, making me feel hopeless and full of sorrow.  Joy.  It is not the same as happiness which is based on my circumstances.  Instead, joy is a state of hopefulness and delight that comes from the Lord.  Many times I ironically find its presence in the midst of suffering, proving it's supernatural source.

There is so much to take this joy away, however.  I face troubles of every kind, battle against the sin that is always present in my wretched flesh, and am threatened to be overtaken by worry.  If I want to let this evidence of God's presence in my life burst forth, it is important that I not only spend time with Him, but choose Him above everything that demands my time and attention.

Instead of letting troubles demand my attention, I can choose the joy that simmers in the background.  While it is easy to fall for the temptation to despair, I can decide to focus on the goodness of the Lord and rejoice in His love for me.  As natural as it is for me to ponder all that remains unsolved in my life, I can instead prefer to believe the God of all resources is a God in whom I can be glad.

When I spend time with the Lord and stay connected to Him, I will rejoice in all that He is no matter my circumstances.

Hope

She had given up on the boy.  It seemed he would never learn, always choosing to follow the troublemakers.  In the past, though, this mother always believed her son would one day grow out of this phase of difficulty and enter into the great plan God had for his life.  When he was permanently expelled from school that fateful day of his 18th year, however, she felt all hope slip away.

It is easy to give up when things seem so impossible.  As one who follows Christ, however, and has been brought close to God through His sacrificial blood, I have a positive expectation of what is to come.  I know I am cared for, comforted, and promised a place personally prepared for me in the presence of the One who loves me perfectly.  For these reasons, I can carry on in the face of great difficulty.

How quickly that hope can slip away, however.  Hard times come and I forget everything I know to be true, thinking I am like those who don't have a Father who cares for me intimately.  During these times it is vital that I remind myself of who I am in Christ, making my future secure. (Ephesians 2:11-13)  

Nothing that happens in the here and now can remove me from what is promised to me.  I am assured not only of an eternity of blissful worship of the One who makes me complete, but the present with Him as well as He floods my life with His ever-present love.  (Romans 8:38-39)

When I spend time with the Lord, I am reminded of the hope I have in Him.

In the same way that Moses was changed when He spent one-on-one time with the Lord, so I am transformed as well.  While the differences may not be evident to me, others will probably see a peace that doesn't make sense considering the difficulties I face, or a sense of joy that simmers below the surface, or a spirit of hope that drives me forward in faith.  These are some of the ways I reflect Christ to a world that so desperately needs His Light.

As I begin this day it is my prayer that I can trust God enough to invest time with Him each day.

How do I inadvertently miss out on all the good things that come from God because I am too busy with other things?

How can I radically change my daily schedule to intentionally make time for the God who is jealous for my time? 

God Revealed

"Then the LORD came down in the cloud

and stood there with him and proclaimed his name,

the LORD.

And he passed in front of Moses,

proclaiming,

'The LORD, the LORD,

the compassionate and gracious God,

slow to anger,

abounding in love and faithfulness,

maintaining love to thousands,

and forgiving wickedness, rebellion and sin.'"

Exodus 34:5-7a

She struggled with accepting God's love for her.  Whenever she heard that God was her Father, she thought of her own earthly father at whose hands she had suffered greatly.  The word "father" was tainted in her mind, closely associated with the man who had abused her in many unspeakable ways.  My friend had made God into the image of man.

It is easy to do this, not understanding God's true character.  Therefore, it may be difficult to worship Him, love Him or trust Him.  Other times I may give Him characteristics which are more pleasing to me and my agenda, making Him into something He's not.  

When God passed in front of Moses before He made the covenant with this leader of the Israelites, spending forty days writing the Ten Commandments upon the second set of stone tables, He revealed His true character.  Here is who God says He is and upon which I can base my faith.

Compassionate and Gracious

I deserve nothing more than death because of my sin. (Romans 6:23) This sin makes me God's enemy because the way I think, act, speak and conduct affairs is contrary to the way God created me to live. (Colossians 1:21)  Instead of giving me what I have earned, however, He shows compassion, caring deeply about me and giving me good things I don't deserve. (Psalm 130:3-4)

God best showed this spirit of grace and kindness for me when He sent His Son to take my place in death.  Instead of expecting me to carry out my own sentence earned by my rebellious nature, He gave His own precious Son to die in my stead, making life possible for me.  (Romans 5:8, 1 John 2:2)

Therefore, since the Lord is a God of compassion and grace, I can trust Him with my heart.  I need not be on guard before Him, saying only the things I think I should say.  Since He is concerned for my well-being and eager to give me good things, I can be myself before Him, letting Him explore the depths of my heart where darkness lies, knowing that He will be gentle and gracious to me.  He has a way of showing me what needs to be rooted out without condemning me for it, and He makes it easy for me to obey Him.

The Lord is a compassionate and gracious God.

Slow to Anger

School shootings, terrorism, corruption, government deadlock, national debt, disregard for life, contempt for God's law, scorn for traditional values; the list could go on and on.  I live in a world that is pushing the envelope, taunting God in ways that are appalling, yet God is not like me. His anger is slow to come.  Even though I see reasons all around me for Him to unleash His wrath and I see no reason for Him to wait, His ways are higher than mine. (Isaiah 55:8)

I learn in 2 Peter 3:8-9 that time means nothing to God.  He does not follow my timetable which is driven by my impatience to see action and results.  Instead, He is patient, desiring that each of His own image-bearers would come around to Him, turning from their sinful ways.  He does what it takes to draw people to Himself, giving each of us time to see the error of our ways. 

In fact, if God were not so slow to anger, I'd have no chance at life.  When I look around me and want God to send judgment upon this wicked world, I am forgetting my own sinful state.  If it weren't for His kindness, willingness to tolerate my stubborn willfulness and to wait as long as it takes, I'd be doomed as much as the wicked people in Noah's time.   While I like to think I'm better than they, God knows the truth:  I am a sinner to the core, selfish and hard-hearted.  

Since God gives me time to repent and receive the free gift of salvation He offers through Jesus Christ, so I must realize His character demands He do the same for others.  

The Lord is slow to anger, giving all of mankind time to come to repentance.

Abounding in Love and Faithfulness

Apart from God, I will never understand love.  The world defines love as something shallow, physical and based on lust.  God's love, however is deeper and more powerful.  His love is lavish and can never be lost. In fact, the only way I can love anyone at all is because He first loved me.  His love has the power to break down barriers, mend broken hearts, bind up wounds and make friends out of enemies. Love is so closely interwoven into God's character that He is considered to be the manifestation of love, and when I truly experience and comprehend His perfect love, all fear is gone.  (1 John 3:1, Romans 8:38-39,1 John 4:16-19)

If I am to live the life God created me to live, free from guilt, fear and doubt, I must realize how much I can count on Him.  I can make a list a mile long of the people who have let me down, hurt me and abandon me at my greatest hour of need.  It is easy, then, to assume God is the same way.  I may be tentative in my willingness to trust Him, generating a back-up plan "just in case."

God, however, is faithful to supply all my needs, giving me exactly what I require at just the right time.  In fact, He is the only one who knows the plan for my life and realizes the difference between my necessities and my desires. (Jeremiah 29:11, Matthew 6:32)  Therefore, I can trust Him with every part of my life. 

Instead of trying to orchestrate the details of my life, then, I can let God choose for me, giving Him full authority to guide me and use me as He sees fit.  He will never let me down and I will find that it is His love that propels me forward, giving me confidence to approach Him to receive all I need.    

The Lord is a God who is abounding in love and faithfulness.

Maintaining Love and Forgiving Wickedness

I live in a hard, cruel world that does not easily forgive.  People tend to remember my past, judging me based on what I've done before, not believing that God has begun a work within me and will continue transforming me until the day of Christ Jesus. (Philippians 1:6) Instead of giving me a chance, though, I am labeled as worthless and without hope.

It is easy to take on this same attitude as I come into contact with the callousness I find all around me.  When I lift my eyes to my Father, however, I see I different picture.  I find a landscape of love that never diminishes with time but continues to flow into my life regardless of my performance.  I also see that my worst sins are forgiven and I am given second, third and fourth chances. (1 John 1:9)

God never writes me off as hopeless.  Instead, He keeps lavishly loving me despite my unworthiness.  His mercies are new every morning, and each sunrise brings a new day of hope where He does new things He has never done before.  (Isaiah 43:18-19)  Therefore, I need not base my expectations on my past, but can always hope for the good that God has saved up for me this day.  

The Lord is a God who maintains His great love for me, freely offering forgiveness through Christ.

It is all too easy for me to base my idea of God on the humans around me.  God, however, has a character that is so much higher than anything He created.  Therefore, if I am to truly trust Him, I must realize His true nature.  He is compassionate and gracious, slow to anger, abounding in love and faithfulness and preserves His love and forgiveness throughout all of time.  The Lord, as He revealed Himself, is a God who can be trusted.  The more I know about God, then, the easier it is for me to place my life into His hands.

As I begin this day it is my prayer that I can seek to know God a little more each day.

How am I afraid to trust God?

When would I rather take care of meeting my own needs instead of waiting on the Lord? 

Benefit of the Holy Spirit

"Then Moses said,

'If you don't personally go with us,

don't make us leave this place.

How will anyone know that you look favorably on me

-on me and on your people-

if you don't go with us?

For your presence among us

sets your people and me apart

from all other people on the earth.'"

Exodus 33:15-16

I didn't think there was anything special about the beret, besides the fact that it made my new boyfriend look quite handsome.  This man who would later become my husband explained the significance of the green beret.  "Everyone else in the Army wears a camouflaged cap while only members of the Special Forces wear the green beret."  A Soldier's hat was what identified their unit before 2001.  For instance, airborne organizations wore maroon berets while Rangers sported black.  One look at a soldier's head gear told one a lot about what type of unit in which they served.

Similarly, as a follower of Christ, I have a distinctive feature which sets me apart from the rest of mankind.  In the same way that Moses didn't want to go anywhere without the presence of the Lord because He realized it was Him who set the Israelites apart, I never need go anywhere without the distinctive presence of the Holy Spirit.  What difference does the indwelling Spirit of God make in my life?

Sealed by the Holy Spirit

Simply using the word "organic" on a label doesn't necessarily mean a food was produced and processed according to national organic standards.  In order to make sure crops were grown or livestock raised using ecologically safe biological pest management as well as with the exclusion of all synthetic chemicals, antibiotics and hormones, a consumer needs to look for the official "USDA Organic" seal of certification on any food considered for consumption.

In the same way that the United States Department of Agriculture certifies those products that meet their standards of organic production, God signifies His acceptance of me as His child with the "seal" of the Holy Spirit.  When I believed in Jesus Christ as my Lord and Savior, I received this "stamp of approval," not out of any integrity or merit of my own, but only based on the grace of God released through the willing sacrifice made by Jesus on my behalf.  (Ephesians 2:8-9)

When I receive God's Spirit as evidence that I am adopted into His family by faith, this seal of approval also gives me the hope of my inheritance in Christ.  The presence of God's Spirit is the proof that I will one day enter into His presence and live with Him forever!  (2 Corinthians 1:21-22)  

With such hope, then, I find myself desiring to live in a way that pleases God.  Instead of living as I used to live before I knew Jesus, I find another way as His Spirit nudges me toward kindness, compassion and forgiveness, empowering me to act in a way that is consistent with His teachings.  (Ephesians 4:30, Philippians 2:13)  This change in the fabric of my being is how I know my faith is authentic.

When I believe in Jesus Christ as my Lord and Savior, I receive the stamp of approval of God's Spirit.

Marked by the Holy Spirit

The blue and white Boeing 747-200B emblazoned with the words, "The United States of America," an American flag and a special seal, Air Force One is easily recognizable as the plane designated to carry the President of the United States.  Technically, however, any Air Force aircraft carrying the president uses the call sign, "Air Force One."  It is the presence of this important leader that is enough to transform any airplane into something special.

This is not so different from me.  Even though there may not be anything extraordinary about me in and of myself, the presence of God's Spirit dwelling within me sets me apart from all other peoples. (2 Timothy 2:19)  My body has been transformed from simply a physical shell into a temple of God's Spirit.  Therefore, I am to treat myself as one who is holding a great treasure inside such an ordinary vessel.  (2 Corinthians 4:7, 1 Corinthians 6:20)

Instead of going wherever I want to go, doing whatever pleases me, and saying whatever comes to my mind, then, I must remember I was bought at a price.  My life no longer belongs to me but was purchased through the blood of Jesus by the One who loves me enough to give of His Own Son.  I must see myself as a precious commodity who was created for a mighty purpose that goes beyond my own dreams, comfort or ambitions.  The mark of the Holy Spirit dwelling with me gives me a higher calling.

When I believe in Jesus Christ as my Lord and Savior, I am marked as His own by the presence of His Spirit. (Ephesians 1:13)

Wisdom from the Holy Spirit

His wisdom wasn't learned or gained from years of personal experience.  Instead, people from miles around came to King Solomon because he possessed God-anointed wisdom.  When God offered anything at all to the young king, he chose a discerning heart and the ability to wisely lead God's people so he would know between right and wrong.  God was pleased with his request and granted his wish, giving him also riches and honor. (1 Kings 3:4-15)

Solomon's wisdom came directly from God.  As a result, he was able to judge wisely through no power of his own but solely based on God's anointing on his life.  In a similar way, I have received the gift of God's indwelling Spirit once I accepted Jesus as my Lord and Savior.  His Spirit gives me a permanent anointing that allows me to understand the Truth.

In order to utilize this wisdom, however, I must stay close to the Lord, responding to His teachings and applying them to my life.  (1 John 2:27)  As I grow in my relationship with the Him, gaining more and more respect and awe for His holy character and a desire to live as He calls me to live, this wisdom grows.  (Proverbs 9:10, Psalm 111:10)

It is only through the presence of God's Spirit that I am able to know more about Him and His ways.  As He transforms me from the inside out through His supernatural work in my life, my prayers become more and more powerful as they fall more closely in line with God's will.  (Romans 12:2, 1 John 5:14, James 5:16)

When I believe in Jesus Christ as my Lord and Savior, I receive wisdom that only comes from God's indwelling Spirit.

I am like Moses because I recognize that I don't want to go anywhere apart from the presence of God.  As I come into relationship with Him through faith in Jesus Christ, I find the Holy Spirit has sealed me as His authentic child, marked me as His own precious possession and granted me supernatural wisdom to know and do His will.  These are the benefits of the Holy Spirit of God that will never leave me as I walk with Him.

As I begin this day it is my prayer that I can trust the leading of God's Spirit.

When do I forget that God's Spirit dwells within in me, giving me wisdom to understand His ways?

How am I living like everyone else instead of like a holy temple?    

Golden Calf

"When the people saw that Moses was so long

in coming down from the mountain,

they gathered around Aaron and said,

'Come, make us gods who will go before us.

As for this fellow Moses who brought us up out of Egypt,

we don't know what has happened to him.'"

Exodus 32:1

The din of a wild party reached his ears as he descended the mountain.  After spending forty days listening only to the sound of the Lord our God's voice, the raucous carousing assaulted his holy ears.  As he rounded the corner at the bottom of the mountain he saw it: what used to be jewelry formed into the shape of a calf.  What were they thinking?  What is wrong with these people? (Exodus 32)

As hard as it is for me to believe that the people of Israel would so quickly and easily abandon the God who delivered them from the bondage of slavery, if I am honest with myself, I may find the same adulterous attitude in my own heart.  While I don't go so far as to make an image out of something created and offer sacrifices to it, there are times I turn to other things or people during certain times in my life.  What can set my heart to stray?

Waiting

Sarai and Abram had waited ten long years for a child after God had promised to make Abram into a great nation.  Even though God had confirmed this promise some time later, giving him a vivid vision of the covenant the Lord made with him, Abram still wondered how his descendants could receive this vast land if he didn't even have a son. (Genesis 15) 

"Honey, I've been thinking.  I know how stressful this time of waiting for a child has been.  Since the Lord has closed my womb, there must be another way He expects us to go about bearing a child.  I think I have the solution; why don't you sleep with my Egyptian servant?  This way, you will have a child that God can use to fulfill His great promise."

The plan sounded good to Abram.  Ten years is a long time to wait for God to act.  Surely He didn't mean for it to take this long.  Yes, there must be a part he needed to play and this seemed like just the thing.  What a time to celebrate!  The child of promise would soon be born! (Genesis 16:1-3)

Interestingly, God rejected this child of their own plan and the couple had to wait an additional 15 years before Sarai, then renamed as Sarah, would bear her own child.  Isaac would become the child through whom the blessing would be fulfilled. (Genesis 21:1-7)

It is hard to wait for God to meet a need, bring about a vision, or fulfill a promise made.  When it takes longer than I care to wait, I may do as Sarai did, thinking there is a part I'm expected to play.  While I have grown up hearing that God helps those who help themselves, the principle behind this common saying is not rooted in truth.  Instead, I learn from God's Word that when I wait on the Lord, putting all my hope in Him and letting Him choose the timetable, method and means, I will be renewed in my strength and given power to persevere as I let God take the reigns. (Isaiah 40:31)

While it is not easy to wait, letting God lead is always the better option.  Turning to other solutions means I have given up on the Lord.  Even though I may not consciously mean to abandon my faith, that is exactly what I do when I take matters into my own hands instead of waiting for God to provide in His perfect time.

Placing my trust in other people or solutions during a long period of waiting on the Lord is a way that I worship my own golden calf.

Expectation

The land had been promised long ago.  By all accounts, it was an abundant land filled with giant grapes, luscious pomegranates, delectable figs and many good things.  It was described as a land flowing with milk and honey; it seemed ideal!  The only problem was the people who lived there: They would not easily give up their precious land, creating for them ferocious opponents and an impossible obstacle.  This is not what the people of Israel expected when God said He would give them a land to call their own.  (Numbers 13:25-33)

I can relate to the plight of God's people.  There are many times when God supplies my needs, answers my prayers or solves my problems in ways I don't expect.  When I carry a certain expectation, assuming that God will give me what I want, when I want it and how I want it, I can count on the fact that I will be disappointed.

Instead of expecting God to work in the way I as a mere human operate, I would be wise to trust God to do as He sees fit, watching and waiting expectantly for Him to blow my mind with His creative response.  I limit God when I assume He'll work my way.  

When I need relief from a painful situation, instead of delivering me from it like I expect, He may give me more grace so I can persevere through it.  When my bills are mounting and my pay is shrinking, I may think the answer is more income.  In His infinite wisdom, however, God may have a lesson for me in the middle of the struggle, choosing instead to delay recovery in order to teach me gratitude and give me an opportunity to improve my stewardship.  When I think the answer to my struggles is found in delivery from it, God may choose to leave them as a thorn in my side that will keep me humbly reliant on Him.  (2 Corinthians 12:9)

Expecting God to work in a way I deem as best is one way I turn to my own golden calf.

Doubt

"Did God really say you must not eat the fruit from any of the trees in the garden?"

"No, He said we can eat our fill from every tree except the one in the center.  Of that tree, we must not touch or we'll die."

"How absurd!  You won't die! God knows that once you partake of that fruit, your eyes will be opened and you'll know good from evil.  Die?  Preposterous!" (paraphrased from Genesis 3:1-6)

And with that seed of doubt planted firmly in Eve's mind, she began to consider the off-limits tree, something about which she had never before thought.  Doubt is a powerful enemy of my faith.  When I begin to question what I know to be the truth, I am headed down a path that takes me away from God and His perfect plan for my life.

In contrast, faith believes without seeing, never needing to understand something completely in order to trust it but simply knowing that if God said it, there is no need for further scrutiny.  When I am tempted to question what I know to be true, then I would be wise to turn away from doubt and remind myself of the truth as I have learned it.

For instance, when I know God has placed me in a certain position for His purposes, I can stand firm.  If I am tempted to look for a new job, doubting His sovereignty because the atmosphere is difficult and full of strife, I must remind myself that I am salt and light in a lost and darkened world. (Matthew 5:13-16)

Other times I may wonder how God could possibly use my testimony to touch anyone's life for Christ.  Instead of questioning the power of my story of salvation, I can remind myself I am a sinner who has been plucked from the jaws of death and freely given the gift of life for all of eternity.  (Romans 5:6-11)  What is more powerful than that?

Sometimes I even wonder if I'm on the wrong track because things seem to be going in a way that is difficult and causes much suffering.  I start to wonder if I might have heard God wrong, or maybe I misinterpreted His message because surely this can't be His plan for my life.  It is then that I can remind myself that God brings good out of every situation and there's nothing I can do to counteract this goodness.  (Romans 8:28)

Nurturing the seeds of doubt planted by my Enemy is another way I turn to my own golden calf.

I have never seen anyone make for themselves an idol made of gold, silver or wood.  Still, idol worship is a big problem in this day and age.  While I don't intend to stray from my faith in the One True God, I do have a tendency to wander away from Him.  I am guilty of making my own golden calf when I lose my patience while waiting, expect God to work in a way I desire and doubt what I know to be true.  It is my desire that I would stand strong this day as I trust solely and completely in the Lord.

As I begin this day it is my prayer that I can trust God without giving into the temptation to go my own way.

When do I buy into the lies Satan tries to sell me?

How am I losing faith in God by leaning more on what I think than on the truth?