Plain Love

"'Though I have been speaking figuratively,

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

In that day you will ask in my name.

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

No, the Father himself loves you because you have loved

me and have believed that I came from God.

I came from the Father and entered the world;

now I am leaving the world

and going back to the Father.'

Then Jesus' disciples said,

'Now you are speaking clearly

and without figures of speech.'"

John 16:25-29

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

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

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

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

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

Access to God

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

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

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

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

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

Sonship

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

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

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

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

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

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

Understanding

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Counselor

"'Now I am going to him who sent me,

yet none of you asks me,

Where are you going?

Because I have said these things,

you are filled with grief.

But I tell you the truth:

It is for your good that I am going away.

Unless I go away,

the Counselor will not come to you;

but if I go, I will send him to you.

When he comes,

he will convict the world of guilt in regard to sin

and righteousness and judgement:

in regard to sin,

because men do not believe in me;

in regard to righteousness, because I am going to the Father,

where you can see me no longer;

and in regard to judgment,

because the prince of this world now stands condemned.'"

John 16:5-11

We stood in the driving, cold rain with only an overhead shelter protecting us from the elements.  The weather mirrored our feelings as a faithful few gathered to say good-bye to a husband, father, son, brother, co-worker and friend.  Tears mingled with the rain as we walked back to our vehicles, the somber graveside service behind us.  Now began the difficult task of working through our grief and moving on without him.  Things would never be the same.

The disciples must have underwent similar feelings of loss as Jesus forewarned them of His impending departure.  I'm sure they wondered how they would live their lives without His physical presence.  Who would teach them?  Who would guide them?  How would they survive?  Would their faith falter?

Anticipating their worries, Jesus promised a Helper who would always be there to help them.  In order for this ever-present Spirit to be sent to those who follow Him, though, Jesus would have to return to His Father.  Out of the grief and suffering came the salvation of man, but also the gift of the Holy Spirit, our Counselor.

Conviction of Sin

I am a sinner saved by the grace of God through faith in Jesus Christ.  The reality of my identity must always be at the forefront of my mind, lest I grow self-righteous.  When I see areas of sin in others, it stands out like a beacon to me, tempting me to enlighten then of their wrongdoing and point them to the path of righteousness.

Jesus, however, taught another way to live in peace with one another.  Through His redemptive work on the cross, I am made right with a holy God.  Now, through the blood of Jesus, I am like a priest who can access God directly, without going through a middle-man or an intercessor.  I have my own personal relationship with my Creator.  

Because of this new-covenant relationship, formed through Christ's obedience to His Father's will even unto death, God can speak directly into my life.  As I walk in the light, keeping step with His Spirit, He leads me down paths of righteousness for His namesake. (Galatians 5:18, Psalm 23:3)  He never leads me into sin, but instead cultivates His fruit in me.(v 22-23) In His time, He reveals areas of sin which I need to surrender to Him for His glory. (v 24)

Many times I get this mixed up. Either I expect someone around me to notify me when I'm off-track, or I think it's my job to do the same for others.  In reality, this is the role of God's Spirit.  I like how Oswald Chambers explained it: "One of our severest lessons comes from the stubborn refusal to see that we must not interfere in other people's lives. . . When you do have to give advice to another, God will advise through you with the direct understanding of His Spirit; your part is to be so rightly related to God that His discernment comes through you all the time for the blessing of another soul."

My sole job is to keep in-tune with God, walking in step with Him so that I'll recognize and respond to His correction in my thoughts, words, and actions.  Additionally, when I'm rightly related to Him, I will only speak into another's life under His direct guidance.  When I am grieved by someone's indiscretion, I can be sure that God is taking care of it in the same way He does for me.

Jesus returned to His Father so the Counselor could come and remind me constantly that I am a sinner saved by grace.

Reveals Righteousness

I can spend a lifetime trying to impress God.  My heart desires to do His will, living my life in a way that pleases Him.  As time goes on, though, I see how futile are my efforts. Try as I might, I just can't do right. (Romans 7:19)

Thankfully, Jesus came to free me from slavery to my sinful nature.  The One who is truly righteous and holy took the punishment for my transgressions, freeing me from the bondage of sin and death.  As I entered into a relationship with Christ, accepting the salvation offered through faith, His righteousness became mine.  In the eyes of God, my sin is covered by the cleansing blood of Jesus, making me appear to Him as holy and pure.

Apart from Jesus, however, I am not sinless.  Instead, I am plagued with this flesh of selfish desires.  I am not capable of living right.  How then can I ever hope to please God, pursuing perfection and maturity in this life? (1 Peter 1:16)

Jesus did not leave me helpless in the futility of my sinful flesh.  Instead, He left me with a Counselor, the Holy Spirit, who brings a righteousness into my heart.  As I walk in step with Him, paying attention to His leading, He will produce fruit in my life; fruit that reveals the nature of God Himself.  Then I will notice the ability to love the unlovable. A joy will fill my being in the midst of strife when I let His Spirit lead.  Peace will rule my soul as His Spirit has His way in my life.  

When I let God's Spirit direct my paths, I'll discover a new-found patience and tolerance for others. As the Spirit takes the lead, kindness, goodness and gentleness will flow out of my naturally cruel, wicked and rough exterior.  Where once fear, doubt and self-indulgence ruled, God's Spirit makes way for authentic, faithful, and self-controlled living.

I cannot fake righteousness.  Instead, it is only revealed in my life through the exposure of the characteristics of the indwelling Spirit.  As He works to chisel away more of my flesh, then more of His righteousness is made known.

Jesus returned to the Father so the Counselor could come and empower me to live in a way that pleases Him.

Demonstrates Judgement

Murder.  Kidnapping.  Sex Trafficking.  Child Pornography.  Drug Addiction.  Alcoholism.  These are a few examples of the evils of the world in which we live.  The fallout from the work of the Evil One is all around me.  Lives are shattered, hearts are broken, families are fragmented, children are suffering.  If I didn't know any better, I'd think that Satan had won.

Through the presence of the Holy Spirit in my life, however, the guilt and punishment awaiting the Prince of this world has been made plain.  I can rest assured that he will get what's coming to him and that no sin will go unpunished.  For those who follow Jesus, He took that punishment.  But for those who refused His saving grace, the eternal death sentence has been handed down.

As the great deceiver and author of evil, Satan has nothing but bondage, suffering and torment to look forward to for all of eternity. (Revelation 20:10)  God is a just God.

How does this affect me as I live my life in the here and now?  I can trust that God will not let injustice pass unnoticed.  When it seems evil is winning, I can remind myself that God's judgement over Satan is coming.  During the times when I feel overwhelmed with the hurting and suffering caused by the darkness of this world, I can trust God to bring justice in the end.

Jesus returned to the Father so the Counselor could come to demonstrate His judgement over Satan.

I hear a lot being said about Jesus and His role in my salvation, but I cannot overlook the importance of the Holy Spirit who convicts me of my sin, produces His righteous fruit in my life, and displays the judgement that Satan has awaiting him.   In the words of the 19th century missionary to China, "We have given too much attention to methods and to machinery and to resources, and too little to the Source of Power, the filling with the Holy Ghost."  The Counselor is my constant companion and supply of power:  Without Him, I am impotent.

As I begin this day it is my prayer that I can trust completely in God's Spirit to equip and empower me to live for Him.

How do I try to take on His role of convicting by pointing out sin in others, thus getting in the way of God's Sovereign work?

When do I feel despair at the work Satan is doing around me?      

Pride of Knowledge

"'I am not possessed by a demon,' said Jesus,

'but I honor my Father and you dishonor me.

I am not seeking glory for myself;

but there is one who seeks it, and he is the judge.

I tell you the truth,

if anyone keeps my word,

he will never see death.'

At this the Jews exclaimed,

'Now we know that you are demon-possessed!

Abraham died and so did the prophets,

yet you say that if anyone keeps your word,

he will never taste death. 

Are you greater than our father Abraham?

He died, and so did the prophets.

Who do you think you are?'

Jesus replied,'If I glorify myself, my glory means nothing.

My Father, whom you claim as your God,

is the one who glorifies me.

Though you do not know him, I know him.

If I said I did not,

I would be a liar like you,

but I do know him and keep his word.

Your father Abraham rejoiced at the thought 

of seeing my day; he saw it and was glad.'

'You are not yet fifty years old,' the Jews said to him,

'and you have seen Abraham!'

'I tell you the truth,' Jesus answered,

'before Abraham was born, I am!'

At this, they picked up stones to stone him,

but Jesus hid himself, 

slipping away from the temple grounds."

John 8:49-59

Kids in today's celebrity-driven culture think they know those they watch on TV, in movies and in videos and concerts.  This promotes the perception that what they read about in the magazines, learn from watching interviews, and find out by listening to gossip makes these famous people their friends.  Star-watchers can claim knowledge of those they study, but without cultivating a real, mutual relationship with the object of their research, they can't claim to really know that person.

It's not so different with God.  I can learn a lot about God by reading the Bible, talking to experts, and taking classes where His ways are taught, but until I enter into my own relationship with Him through faith in Jesus Christ, I can't claim to know God. (Psalm 34:8) The Jewish leaders made this mistake.  Since they were experts in God's law and thought they knew everything there was to know about God without actually knowing Him personally, they missed the coming of the Messiah; They simply did not recognize Him.

I must guard against falling into the same kind of pride of knowledge by taking some simple yet profound steps.

Keep to His Teachings

There is a difference between knowing something in my head and knowing something in my heart.  The latter will change my actions and way of living while the former tends to puff me up with pride.  (1 Corinthians 8:1-3)

For instance, if I know that my husband likes his eggs scrambled with onions, peppers and ham, that knowledge alone is not enough to drive me to go through the trouble of making them in the way that pleases him.  There is a lot of work involved in beating the eggs, chopping up the vegetables, slicing the ham and cooking it just they way he likes it.  The awareness of his likes is not enough to get me to go through that kind of hassle.

My love for him, however, gives me the desire to make him happy in small ways like cooking what he likes.  Love is what makes me rise to the occasion.

In the same way, it is my love for Jesus which compels me to live my life in the way He has shown me.  It's not about following a set of rules, however, but in walking side-by-side with His Spirit as He reminds me of all that He taught. (Galatians 5:16-18, John 14:26) Only in following His lead will I be able to carry out His teachings.  In my own strength, I am not capable of pleasing God.  It is only by following Him step by step that I will be empowered to live in a way that honors God.

Billy Graham said, "Incredible as it may seem, God wants our companionship. He wants to have us close to Him.  He wants to be a father to us, to shield us, to protect us, to counsel us, and to guide us in our way through life."   He desires to go deeper with me than simple knowledge of Him.

In order to keep from falling into the trap of superficial faith, I must let His love drive me toward an intimate relationship with Him as the Lord of my life.

Know God

It's hard to get to know someone who won't be honest with their feelings.  When they put up a front that everything is okay when I know it's not, then I feel like they don't trust me enough to share openly with me. I assume there must be another friend with whom they'll confide, effectively driving a wedge in our relationship.

God is no different than I in this way.  If I only say to God what I think He wants to hear instead of what is really going on inside of me, I am sending Him the message that I don't trust Him enough to depend on Him and have confidence in Him.  Instead, I prefer to either keep my feelings inside where they will wreak havoc on my health, or to turn to someone else as a betrayal of the One who loves me perfectly.

God said through the prophet Jeremiah that when I seek God with all of my heart,  I will find Him. (29:13)  Most of the time, though, I hold back.  I may be afraid that if I completely submit to Him, He might ask me to give up something or someone I don't want to live without.  Or it could be that there are some areas in which I'm not willing to surrender control because I like to decide what I can and cannot handle.  Or I may simply want to continue living as I always have, not seeing the need to change.

When I finally make that decision to obey Him wholeheartedly, though, I will truly get to know God.  He will teach me His ways as I trust Him with my life.  He will reveal more of Himself as I open up to Him honestly.  As I offer myself as a living sacrifice, putting my life completely in His hands, I will understand more of what He desires from me. (Romans 12:1-2)

In order to keep from falling into the trap of superficial faith, I must live authentically with my Father, obeying and seeking Him wholeheartedly without any hidden agenda.

Humble Myself

My husband and I have been married for nearly 24 years.  Even with that much time racked up together, I don't know everything there is to know about him.  We continue to learn new things about each other every day.

If it takes a lifetime to get to know another human being intimately, why would I think I could gain complete understanding of God while I'm in this temporary place we like to call earth?  God's ways are so much higher than my ways and His thoughts would blow my mind if I were to know them. (Isaiah 55:8-9)   It is impossible for me to fully understand His mind.  (Isaiah 40:13)

Despite this truth, I still get into the mindset that I have Him figured out, even in some small way. I observe the way He works in me, and I assume He'll do the same for my friend.  Other times I'll remember what He said to me during past difficulties, and I'll try to apply it to today's hard times instead of letting Him work afresh.  Sometimes I think I know how He'll work so I miss when He does come through because I was looking in the wrong direction.

When I expect certain things from God, I'm not open to His lead.  If I assume He's going to heal me from sickness but it's His will to lead me through it, then I'll miss out on the blessings He had prepared for me through the pain.  When I expect to live a life of luxury and comfort as one of His children, then I'll be disappointed and may lose my faith if it's His will for me to live in poverty.  When I suppose my life will be free from heartache, then when trouble comes I won't be able to see God's hand through the struggle.

Nineteenth century French Carmelite nun Therese of Lisieux said, "We are too little to be able always to rise above difficulties.  Well, then, let us pass beneath them quite simply."  Following Jesus means that I must let Him direct my footsteps and be willing to accept what He has for me.  

In order to keep from falling into the trap of superficial faith, I must humble myself in order to be able to accept His calling and recognize His revelations.

There is a lot to learn about God.  Either I can discover Him vicariously, or I can learn directly from Him.   If I choose an intimate relationship with God through faith in Jesus Christ, I will avoid the snares of the Jewish leaders who only knew of Him but knew Him not.  Then I will be able  to keep to His teachings, know God as a living Father, and humble myself so that He can choose for me.  

As I begin this day it is my prayer that I can choose intimacy above book-knowledge.

How do I tend to try to be an expert on God instead of seeking to know Him?

When do I betray the superficiality of my connection to God?  

Living Water

"Whoever believes in me,

as the Scripture has said,

streams of living water will flow from within him."

John 7:38

There are many things I can turn to in my quest to find healing, satisfaction and fulfillment.  There is religion, drugs, sex, alcohol, sports, a career, raising a family, marriage, medical treatment, and hobbies, to name a few.  None delivers on the promise of happiness nor can mend my broken heart nor bind the wounds of past hurts.  Every solution I try will fall short apart from Jesus.  He is the answer.

Once I dedicate my life to Him and begin to humble myself before Him, giving Him access to my heart so He can mold me, shape me and heal me, then I find an interesting thing happening.  The very Living Water that flowed from Jesus into my life to make me whole, overflows into the lives of others.  

Fruit of His Spirit

I labor hard every week, doing my duty to serve in the church.  It feels good to help others and be a part of something bigger than myself.  Focusing on others helps me to divert my attention away from my own hurts, my failing marriage and the kids' behavioral problems.  I work diligently to love others, stay calm, speak kindly and extend grace.  With so much to live for, then, why is it that I cry myself to sleep every night and feel so empty inside?  Why is my life such a mess when I try so hard to do the right thing for God?

It's easy to get things backwards.  My nature tells me that I must work hard in order to reap a benefit in my life.  I think that I must try to be a better Christian and as I struggle through, God will see my efforts and take pity on me and help me.  I try to love my husband, but he's just so cruel to me.  No one can put up with that kind of treatment and be expected to maintain a kind and compassionate attitude.  It's as if I'm saying, "I'm glad Jesus died for me and I want to follow Him, but nothing is working.  My efforts are all in vain!"

The thing is, what my flesh tells me is contrary to the way God actually works in my life. Even though I feel pressure to try, I can never act in a loving, kind way, patiently enduring abuse, faithfully staying true to my faith, treating others gently despite their harshness, returning good for evil, exhibiting self-control at the table as well as in how I show my emotions, and do it all with a joyous attitude!  My sinful nature just doesn't naturally produce this kind of fruit.  (Galatians 5:16-26)

When I make Jesus Lord of my life, I must instead go through a life-long process of purification and maturation where I become less and He becomes more.  With not as much of my flesh rising up against His Spirit, He has more of a free reign in my heart.  Then I will notice a flow of love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control where before I failed in my own effort.

Submitting to Jesus as my Lord means streams of living water will flow from me in the form of His fruit. 

Love

The world says love is a feeling and it is something I can "fall into" and then "fall out of."  Love is supposed to feel sweet, warm and cozy.  When it seems to vanish like a puff of steam in the cold air, I fall into a heap, reeling from the rejection of another failed relationship.

God, however, sets me straight by saying that love is so much deeper than a feeling.  God Himself is love, so if I want to learn of love I will need to go to the Source.  He says that "love cares more for others than for self.  Love doesn't want what it doesn't have.  Love doesn't strut, doesn't have a swelled head, doesn't force itself on others, isn't always 'me first,' doesn't fly off the handle, doesn't keep score of the sins of others, doesn't revel when others grovel, takes pleasure in the flowering of truth, puts up with anything, trusts God always, always looks for the best, never looks back, but keeps going to the end.  Love never dies."  (1 Corinthians 13:4-8 MSG)

If I want to love others the way God loves me, as described above, I cannot do it in my own effort.  Instead, it has to come from Him.  I am empowered to love others this way because He first loved me, even though I am highly unlovable. (1 John 4:19) I am selfish, hard-headed, prideful and judgmental  to name a few fleshly attributes that tend to repel others.  Despite my ugliness, God loves me enough to send His Son to die for my sins.  There is no greater love than this!  (John 15:13)

This is the love that runs through me as a follower of Jesus.  When I allow it to flow freely, I will find myself forgiving more easily, seeing the good in others instead of only the negative, and quickly forgetting offenses committed against me.

Submitting to Jesus as Lord of my life means streams of living water will flow from me in the form of love.

Mercy and Compassion

The girl caught in a prostitution ring.

The man living on the street.

The countless who lost their homes in a deadly storm.

The alcoholic who continuously lies to himself and others that "it's just a drink."

The young woman who denies her beliefs and does the unthinkable.

The old man suffering in the nursing home who wants nothing more than to end his life.

There is a lot of suffering in this world.  Affliction is the result of sin, either mine or others.  When I view the hurting with my sinful eyes, I can blame people for their own mess, think there is nothing I can do as one person, or am repulsed by what I see.  In short, I am not naturally drawn to those who are in pain and agony.

Once I make Jesus Lord of my life, however, I will notice a shift.  Those who I used to think were only getting what they deserved now become like a magnet, drawing out a sense of concern from within me.  Where I used to want to get away from those who were struggling, now I'm compelled to help.  Where once I sneered at the sin, now I sense the pain.

It is written in Lamentations 3:22 that, "Because of the LORD's great love we are not consumed, for his compassions never fail." With that kind of Spirit residing within me, am I surprised when I reach out to the down and out or broken-hearted?  He does not give me what I deserve, which is death, so how can I be so hard on others? It is His mercy and compassion that flows through me when I let go of my fears, doubts and other sins that block its' flow.

Submitting to Jesus as Lord of my life means streams of living water will flow from me in the form of mercy and compassion.

Life is full of distractions to keep me away from the Truth.  When I finally accept Jesus as my Savior and make Him Lord of my life, things begin to come into focus.  Not only will I feel more fulfilled and purposeful, but I'll notice His fruit, love as well as mercy and compassion flowing out to those around me.  Only Jesus can supply this living water that will never cease to satisfy.

As I begin this day it is my prayer that I will let the love of God rule in my life.

How do I rely on my own efforts to be the kind of person I think I should be instead of letting God change me into who He created me to be?

When do I think I am required to love others instead of letting God love those I find hard to love?

The Power of Truth

"On hearing it,

many of his disciples said,

'This is a hard teaching. Who can accept it?"

. . .From this time many of his disciples

turned back and no longer followed him."

John 6:60 & 66

His message was popular and spread like wildfire.  Soon, everyone in the country was talking about his plan to bring the nation back to it's former greatness.  It seemed like a positive step, so they elected Barack Obama to the position of President of the United States.  

In contrast, Jesus did not campaign, talk about His policies or tell people what they wanted to hear.  His goal was not to win an election, but to obey His Father's will.  He came to free people from the bondage of sin by dying a criminal's death on a cross.  

The message Jesus taught was intriguing, drawing those who belonged to Him but enraging those who did not know the Father. (John 8:19)  Many people followed Jesus wherever He went, but later fell away when they heard the purpose of His ministry: reconciliation of man's relationship with God through His death.

Jesus was not here to build a following or win a popularity contest.  In the same way, as a disciple of the One who called Himself "the Truth," (John 14:6) I should not be concerned with my acceptance by others.  Jesus warned us that, "If you belonged to the world, it would love you as its own.  As it is, you do not belong to the world, but I have chosen you out of the world.  That is why the world hates you." (John 15:19)

Following Jesus means the power of Truth in my life will work to divide, save and discern.  Living my life to please Him will not be a life of ease and luxury, but it will be a life filled with joy, peace and love.

Truth Divides

Country singer Johnny Cash accepted Jesus as His Savior after a failed suicide attempt in 1968.  He went on to experience a resurgence in his success as an artist and thus gained a platform for the message of the gospel through song.  He is known to have said, "How well I have learned that there is no fence to sit on between heaven and hell.  There is a deep, wide gulf, a chasm, and in that chasm is no place for any man."*

There is no fence-sitting when it comes to Jesus.  He came bearing a sword, not an olive leaf. (Matthew 10:34) He became the stumbling stone which came between men and their salvation.   (Isaiah 8:14)  Either you love Jesus, or hate Him; you're for Him, or against Him; you're saved by Him, or reject His message of salvation.  (Matthew 12:30)

When the Holy Spirit spoke to the people through Peter, He said, "Salvation is found in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given to men by which we must be saved." (Acts 4:12)

If I am going to follow Jesus, I cannot compromise on the Truth as He has revealed it to me in His Word.  Even though it seems harsh in this time of tolerance to say that Jesus is the only way, it is the Truth, and those who are drawn by God will accept the Truth.  (John 6:44)  I can be encouraged by those who came before me to speak the Truth in love. (Ephesians 4:15)

The Truth will not win me a popularity contest, but will divide the believers from the unbelievers.

Truth Saves

I have tried to live my life based on a lie.  I used to think if I could try to be a pretty good person, then I'd be accepted by God.  I thought I was a good person compared to a lot of other people I saw.  I didn't go out and get drunk, I did well in school, I was nice to people (at least to their face), I didn't intentionally hurt others.  You know; I was pretty good!

The problem with this lie is that it keeps me in bondage to my own efforts as well as to the standard I am using.  I must constantly be aware of where I stand on the "good scale".  Then, if I do something that is deemed really bad, I'm out of luck.  I've tarnished my image.  Either I lose hope, or try to be extra good in the future to make up for the naughty act I committed.

The Truth, however, says that all of mankind sins.  It also says God holds the standard for my life and His benchmark is perfection.  This Truth also tells me that every time I fall short, that is sin.  Sin could be a thought, a word, an action or an attitude.  Sin also is my nature:  In other words, I cannot help but sin because it's who I am.

Looking at my life in the light of that Truth, I find my efforts to be in vain.  Who am I kidding?  I could never hope to be perfect!  Thankfully, this Truth also tells me that there is a solution to my sin problem, and His name is Jesus Christ.  Out of God's great love for me, He sent Jesus to take my punishment for the sins I have and will commit.  Because of His sacrificial death, I am saved by grace through faith in Jesus Christ.  In accepting His gift of saving me from certain death as a punishment for my sins, I am free from living the lie I used to live.

Now I am free to live my life in relationship with a perfect God who loves me.  As I walk with Him through the day, He leads me down paths of righteousness for His namesake instead of down paths of wickedness on which my natural self wants to travel.  (Galatians 5:16-18)

The Truth will not give me an easy life, but it will set me free from the law of sin and death so I can live the way I was created to live in relationship with God.

Truth Discerns

One of the things I've noticed about getting older is that I think a lot more about the legacy I'll leave.  What difference have I made in the world?  How will people remember me?  Am I doing anything of eternal value in this temporary dwelling place?

As a believer in Christ, I can't just mark time while I wait for Jesus to return.  It would be easy just to hunker down and enjoy my time with Him as I wait in peace and seclusion for His return.  The problem is, Jesus Himself spoke harshly about those who do not use the gifts, talents and resources God has so generously given to do something which has eternal value. (Matthew 25:14-30)

Before Jesus left, one of His most powerful directives was what we now call "The Great Commission."  Jesus said, "Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you.  And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age." (Matthew 28:19)

The question I must ask myself daily is, "Who is God placing in my path that needs to hear the Gospel?"  Another thought is, "Who is God positioning in my life so that I can disciple them?"  We all are missionaries and mentors.  I may feel I'm not qualified to evangelize or come alongside a new believer and teach them the basics but it's not about my own abilities.  

The Truth I must remember is that God's Spirit dwells within me and works to guide me and supply the words I need to spread the message He has called me to tell. (Luke 12:11-12)  It is not based on my own preparation, other than to be in a right relationship with Him.  As I follow His lead, I will find that He will equip me to share the Gospel and disciple others.

The Truth will not keep me where I'm comfortable, but it will turn me loose to be a mouthpiece unto salvation for all those who will listen.

As a follower of Christ, I must expect to receive the same treatment He did.  I should not expect the world to accept me, to live my life based on a lie, or to be able to fit in with everyone else.  Instead, I can expect that the Truth divides believers from nonbelievers, saves me from the futility of living based on my own standards, and discerns the ones who truly take His teachings seriously from those who are just posers.  The power of the truth will alter the landscape of my life from here on out.

As I begin this day, it is my prayer that I can stick to the Truth, the whole Truth, and nothing but the Truth, so help me God.

When am I more concerned with pleasing others than in saying what's true?

How can I live my life as a testimony to the love of God?

*http://www.brainyquote.com/quotes/quotes/j/johnnycash188002.html#tZRlWsTAG5h2OoaV.99 

My Agenda

"After the people saw the miraculous sign that Jesus did,

they began to say,

'Surely this is the Prophet who is to come into the world.'

Jesus, knowing that they intended to come

and make him king by force,

withdrew again to a mountain by himself."

John 6:14-15

It's election season and I am inundated with political ads coming at me through my phone, in the newspaper, on the Internet and through the television.  Every candidate portrays themselves as the best possible choice, extolling their virtues, relevant experiences and productive record.  Everything a candidate says is colored by their agenda: First to get elected into office, then to accomplish certain tasks according to their beliefs and convictions.

I'm not a politician, but I have a few things in common with them.  I have an agenda, or certain things that I want out of life and I also tend to portray myself in the best possible light, hoping to garner the support of others.

I have my own expectation of how things should work, but God's plan rarely lines up with my agenda.  If I truly want Jesus to have lordship over my life, I'll need to line up my ways with His ways and let Him lead.

How to Live

Looking through my high school yearbook, I noted the following goals of the seniors who were about to embark on the journey of adulthood.  

"Get a job, make lots of money and take life one day at a time."

"Go to college, become a veterinarian, buy a Ferrari, find a gorgeous hunk, get married and have a romping time!"

"Get rich, get married, have babies and live happily ever after."

"To succeed in whatever I do."

"Move to Hawaii and become a beach bum."

Likewise, most of my goals in life are based on my own agenda.  I tend to make plans according to what will give me wealth, comfort and success.  I don't naturally drift toward poverty, struggles and failure, and in fact do whatever I can to avoid them.  If it were up to me I'd have enough money to never give me a reason to worry about expenses, enjoy good health all of my days and succeed in all my endeavors.  

God, however, is more concerned with my character than my comfort.  He is all about the inclinations of my heart and not at all about the ease of my circumstances.  God would rather I obey Him and live in poverty with a slew of failed business attempts behind me than for me to be a billion-dollar entrepreneur who never thinks of Him.

My agenda says to live a life of prosperity of health, wealth and family while God's idea of success concerns how my faith glorifies Him.

Use my Resources

I'll never forget a friend of mine who unwittingly taught me a lesson in generosity simply by sharing a bag of flour.  She had recently bought quite a few 5-pound bags of flour at a clearance sale where she paid 50 cents for each bag.  Her pantry was filled with bounty!  Instead of saving all the bags for herself, though, she willingly shared with me and her other friends.  

At the time, I remember thinking, I would have never thought to give the stuff away!  I would have been thankful that God had provided for my family in such a practical way and that I wouldn't have to buy flour for a year.  This got me to thinking about the things He has given to me.  Maybe everything I have was not meant for me but for someone else who is more in need than I.

My pastor says I should hold things with an open hand, being ready to give my belongings away as soon as the Holy Spirit prompts me to do so.  Unfortunately, I usually end up clutching my stuff with an iron grip.  I grow attached to the books on my shelf, the way my furniture looks in my living room, or in the comfort and convenience of my vehicle.  

In God's kingdom, however, everything belongs to God and has been entrusted into my care.  The way I handle the property, relationships and gifts He gives me says everything about where my priority lies.  If I refuse to help out a single mom who lost everything in a fire because I'm afraid to let go of some of the abundance I own, then I'm only concerned with me.

If I neglect the widow who can't feed her children because I don't want my family to find less food to choose from when they open the cupboard, then my agenda is more important than showing the love of God.

If I steer away from a fellow believer with a jaded past because I'm afraid to be seen with her, then my reputation is more important than encouraging her. 

Letting go of my agenda that is concerned with using my resources to only benefit me will result in the compassion of God ruling my life.

Company I Keep

I recently read a story of the Pied Piper who came into a town during the 13th Century and led all the children away to their demise by simply playing a fife.  It reminds me of how simple it is for me to get led away by someone who does not have my best interest at heart, but also how easily others can follow me.  The question is, what message am I delivering and where am I leading them?

Sometimes, I'm lured into a belief system that sounds like what I believe, but then I find out that there are all sorts of requirements that raise my suspicion.  Other times, my desire to lead a meaningful life drives me toward people who need "saving" and my goal becomes to build a following.  Many times, I only choose to hang around those who make me feel good about myself or with whom I feel comfortable.

In this way I am isolating myself from the very ones with whom God is drawing toward Him or who could humble and teach me.  Instead of being a lighthouse to guide the way of the lost to the Son, I am only focused on what feels good to me.  In looking out for my own reputation, I forsake the broken.  In tending to my own pleasure, I am veering away from those who are difficult to be around.

When choosing who I pursue, my highest consideration is to God and His plan.  If He brings someone prickly and challenging into my life, I can bank on the fact that she needs the love of God and can teach me something about compassion.  If a pregnant teen draws my attention, I can choose to pass right on by or spend some time giving her the encouragement of Christ.  If the grieving mother who turns to alcohol for comfort comes to my attention, I have the option of choosing what's best for me or what will most please God.

In order to give up my agenda, I'll need to make it a priority to spend time those whom God has placed in my path.

I have to admit that I do have an agenda, and that plan is all about me: my comfort, my success and my pleasure.  When I drop my agenda and adopt God's, I'll find that my life will never be the same.

As I begin this day it is my prayer that I will look closely at my life and consider where my agenda strays from God's.

When do I make decisions based on what's best for me instead of consulting God?

How has my relationship with God suffered because I'm afraid to step outside of my comfort zone?