#devoday12 - No other gods

#trendingtopic

One of the trending topics on Facebook today is Nicki Minaj apparently falling to her knees when meeting Lauryn Hill for the first time.  Hill is Minaj's "idol" according to the headline.  TBH I didn't read the story or watch the video I posted in the link.  I think the headline, "Nicki Minaj falls to her knees while meeting idol, Lauryn Hill" kinda says it all.  How far we've come from a true understanding of how great God is, and how insufficient anyone else is in comparison.  And how short a time mankind was actually in that mindset.  Ever since man fell to sin, we are contantly trying to create our own mini-gods to worship, as the One who is worthy may just seem too far away, or not aligned with our own interests.  The truth is that you don't have to refer to someone, or something as your "idol" as Minaj refers to Hill. Anything or anyone that receives more adoration and attention from you than your creator God, and your saviour, Christ, is an idol.  Period.

#scripturetiein

So, let's just start with the basics.  Adam and Eve would have naturally worshiped God above all else.  Before sin entered the world, man was very aware that God was the only being worthy of our praise.  However, once sin entered the world, our vision became clouded and temporal gratification took over our desire for everlasting gratification.  In order to guide His people through a life lived for Him, God provided them with a list of dos and don'ts.  Perhaps you've heard of the the list, typically referred to as the 10 Commandments.  One of these commandments is to not have any idols:

Exodus 20:3-5
You shall have no other gods before me.  You shall not make for yourself a carved image, or any likeness of anything that is in heaven above, or that is in the earth beneath, or that is in the water under the earth.  You shall not bow down to them or serve them, for I the LORD your God am a jealous God

Colossians 3:5 clarifies this further for us who do no longer live under the "law", but continue to strive to live according to the will of God:

Put to death therefore what is earthly in you: sexual immorality, impurity, passion, evil desire, and covetousness, which is idolatry.

Here we can see that anything we covet, in other words, anything we "yearn to possess or have" (definition when I Googled "definition of covet") is an idol.  Let that sink in.  Anything we yearn to possess or have, other than God, is an idol.

#liveit

So, I'm guessing you're not regularly falling on your knees before an object of your desire.  But I'm also guessing that there are several things you can think of, right now, that you "yearn to possess or have".  The key is perspective.  Possessions and relationships can be such a blessing to our lives, as long as we worship He who gives them to us, and not the possessions and relationships, themselves. It's once we start to focus on, and yearn for, those things, that is when we are in danger of committing idolatry.  Keeping the perspective that there is no greater joy than that of knowing and loving God will help you to keep your focus on Him, and nothing else.  Think daily on the intangible blessings you have in your life because God protects you, loves you, provides for you, created you, saved you, gave you his Holy Spirit, and is jealous for you!  Train your brain to yearn for more of these things, and nothing else.  Train your brain to praise the provider, and not the provision.

#prayer

Lord, you are worthy of ALL of my attention, ALL of my desire, and ALL of my praise.  When I think of all the things I cannot live without here on earth, if that list goes beyond one item: The Lord Almighty, it is too long.  I confess, God, that there are things this world provides that I yearn to possess and have.  I repent today of my predilection to make idols for myself.  I thank you Lord for all of the blessings only You can provide.
Amen

#devoday11 - Redemption in a World that Never Forgets

#trendingtopic

Recently Mel Gibson spoke of the incident that abruptly halted his career in 2010, the message he left for his now ex-wife in which all manner of nasty things were said.  In this interview he referred to his alcoholism as the reason for his breakdown, and was happy to report 10 years of sobriety.  He also spoke of the difficult road he has walked in order to get back into the Hollywood game and redeem his name, and career.  It seems casting directors, producers, investors, and the general public don't easily forget such a public shaming, no matter the level of talent Gibson has shown over decades of a thriving career in performance art.  This got me thinking about the concept of redemption, and how elusive it can be in this world where everyone feels very comfortable being a judge, no matter their involvement, or knowledge of the offense, offender, or defendant.  In light of this I am so grateful to be loved by a God whose one goal since man fell to sin was to re-connect and reconcile to man.  This God, who is the only true judge, sent and sacrificed His son so that we could receive perfect redemption for our past mistakes and now we can commune with him, again!  I am just so grateful that God is so much better (aka perfect) at redemption than we are.

#scripturetiein

Redemption is at the very core of our salvation.  Salvation is freedom from sin.  More specifically, it is freedom from bearing the burden of sin.  Before Christ was given for us, on the cross, man needed to spill blood in order to receive redemption from whatever sins he had committed since the last time he spilled blood.  Animals were born and raised for the purpose of being blood offerings to a God who was jealous for mankind - wanting a relationship with his creation again.  This temporary redemption absolved man from his sins in the eyes of God, but it was not enough to grant permanence, because the sacrifices themselves weren't perfect.  True redemption required a perfect sacrifice-a sacrifice that was blameless in and of itself.  This sacrifice would take on the past, present, and future sins of mankind, allowing God to be in relationship with us, again.

This perfect sacrifice was Christ.

In a loud voice they were saying: "Worthy is the lamb who was slain, to receive power and wealth and wisdom and strength and honor and glory and praise".  Revelation 5:12

For the first time in the history of sacrifices, this sacrifice of Christ was the first to be referred to as "worthy".  And, it is the worthiness of this sacrifice that allows us to be fully and permanently redeemed in the eyes of God.

We all sin.  Some of us have struggles that are more pronounced than others.  And some are forced to bear a greater worldly burden, due to the public nature of their sins.  If you've ever been in a position where you screwed up, and it seemed no matter what you did to redeem yourself, no one could forget it, then you know the value of a slate wiped clean.  The key is that you cannot redeem yourself.  You are not worthy to do so.  But the good news is that He who is worthy has already redeemed you!  Grab hold of that redemption today.  Be reminded that if you believe in that perfect sacrifice, and take up your cross to follow Him, you are redeemed.  Your sins are no longer a burden that you need to bear and atone for!  Leave them behind and move forward down that narrow path, that leads to life of communion with God.

#liveit

A life lived in shame is a impotent life.  Shame will weigh you down and cause you to feel like you are not worthy to produce or work for God.  Well, it's true.  You are not worthy on your own.  But worthy IS the lamb who was slain.  The debt of your sins has already been paid.  Think of it this way, if a generous person paid off your mortgage, would you continue sending checks to the bank every month?  Of course not!  Well, this is what you're doing if you're living life with shame, if you are one of Christ's redeemed.

To live out redemption is simple: live!  Live your life and live it for Christ.  You have a purpose and a plan.  Seek it out and implement it, by the grace of God.  Don't let the mistakes of your past hold you back from having an effective future in the service of Christ.  If you've been putting off pursuing your purpose because you don't think God can forgive or accept you, that ends today.  Take the gift of redemption and get started on your next missional project!

#prayer

Lord, There are times here on earth in which we make mistakes that seem to be written on the minds of those around us in indelible ink.  The weight of our mistakes can be so heavy on our shoulders, and make our attempts at moving forward in life seem so futile.  Lord, let us be reminded that you have paid it ALL.  You didn't pay some, or a little.  You paid it ALL.  Lord, reveal the plans you have for our lives and give us the strength to do them!  Thank you Lord for being the perfect sacrifice.  I'm sorry Lord for the times I've assumed that sacrifice to be insufficient, by believing there's no way it atoned for my sins.  I know Lord, in my heart, that it was enough - that YOU are enough.  Let me live in that truth today, and always.
Amen

#devoday10 - An Existence of Service

#trendingtopic

I found it funny that 1 day after I posted "Time to Clean the Locker Room" a trending story on Facebook was all about LeBron James cleaning his team's locker room! And, since virtually all other trending stories had to do with politics, I decided to post about this, today.  Apparently, James noticed that after his team was done with the locker room, after a recent game, they left it in complete disarray, with dirty laundry everywhere.  Instead of leaving it for cleaning staff, he decided to clean it all up, instead.   While the fact that this story was published proves that James is not the most humble of men, there is an aspect of humility here.  This is a man who is worth millions of dollars, lowering himself to do the job of staff likely paid little more than minimum wage.  He felt that the state of locker room was disrespectful to those expected to clean up after the team, and took it upon himself to do something about it.

#scripturetiein

Humility is a key aspect to the life of the christian.  We are to mirror Christ in our daily lives, and though Christ held all of the Authority over the entire world, He was humble, claiming to have come to serve, and not be served.

Matthew 20:28
even as the Son of Man came not to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom to many

We are to live our lives in this manner, no matter what our status or level of promotion.  It's a tall order in our culture.  It can be difficult to hold authority and not hold it over others.  Yet, the Son of Man humbled himself from being wholly Divine, to wholly Man, and died a treacherous death on the cross.

#liveit

We all have opportunities like the one LeBron had recently, to do things "below" our status, in order to serve others.  Make a list today of ways in which you can serve those around you.  Focus on tasks that would require your time and efforts, at a level above and beyond what would normally be expected of you.  Do not seek any reward or compensation in return.  This is what humility looks like for those in the faith.

#prayer

Lord, let us always remember how far you humbled yourself, for our sake.  Enlighten us to daily ways we can practice humility to those around us.  Lord, it can be difficult to serve others in a way that no one notices, or does not get us much acclaim.  But we know that you see all we do, here, Lord, and have promised blessings to us that outweigh what the earth can provide.
In your name we pray,
Amen

#devoday9 - Time to Clean the Locker Room

#trendingtopic

Over the weekend, the most trending topic, I'm guessing, in the universe, was Donald Trump's comments made in 2005 in a private conversation with Billy Bush.  While wearing a hot mic (unknowingly), Trump explained to Bush about how he behaves with women he considers sexually attractive, stating that he kisses them, grabs at them and tries to have sex with them (that's the PG version, folks) and they "let him" because he's famous.  Wow.  So much to unpack here. We have a married man describing sexual acts with women other than his wife.  We have a man using power and fame to take advantage of women.  We have a man describing women's bodies as objects.  And, we have a man who chalks it all up as "locker room talk" in every response he has to it.  In the aftermath of this revelation, I have read many comments from many people.  There are those who are outraged.  There are those who are saddened.  There are those for whom these comments have sparked memories of uninvited sexual advances, who have a lot to say on the topic.  And, there are those who agree with Trump, that this is "just how men talk".  To that last reference, even if that is true, it does not make it all right.  The message we, as christians, can take from this political event is that unwholesome talk of any kind is toxic, and the Bible has a lot to say about it.  This message is not just for men and how they discuss their sexuality in "locker rooms" or elsewhere.  So many of us talk one way with our friends, in private, and another way in church, or other arenas of our public life.  Trump is (rightfully) receiving harsh criticism and scrutiny due to these comments.  While our private comments may never reach the offensive level of Trump's, or receive this level of attention, we can be sure that the Lord hears them all, and they do affect the Kingdom.

#scripturetiein

Ephesians 4:29 says
Let no corrupting talk come out of your mouths, but only such as is good for building up, as fits the occasion, that it may give grace to those who hear.

In Matthew 15:18 we are told that what comes out of our mouths comes from our hearts (so when Trump says, "That's not who I am", well...it actually is, at the heart-level).

Matthew 12:36 says
I tell you, on the day of judgment people will give account for every careless word they speak.

Colossians 3:8 says
But now you must put them all away: anger, wrath, malice, slander, and obscene talk from your mouth.

Finally, James 1:26 says the thing I feel most applies to Trump, and so many of us as well:
If anyone thinks he is religious and does not bridle his tongue but deceives his heart, this person's religion is worthless.

The above is just a sampling of the total amount of verses that speak on the way we speak, and what we say.  You know...Trump, and many others, claim that this is just how men speak.  I, myself, have heard men speak this way, and many women speak in careless and angry, wrathful, malicious, slanderous, and obscene ways as well.  To say that this is just how it is may work for those who don't know Christ, but it is no excuse for those who do.  We are called to higher standard.

#liveit

Proverbs 13:3 says that whoever guards his mouth preserves his life.  The way we live out the command to "put away" all of this type of talk is two-fold.
A. Align your heart with God's more and more, all the time.  This is the goal for all believers-to think the way He thinks, and feel the way He feels.  God does not talk in these ways, and the more like Him we are, the less we will as well.
B. As you work on holiness (see point A.) zip the lip!  The truth is our hearts do contain some amount of uncleanliness.  This is the curse on us all.  This does not mean we need to speak all of the filth we have in our hearts.  Proverbs also says that a gracious words are sweetness to the soul and health to the body.  Let this be our goal.  Speak grace, love, and peace, and when you cannot, don't speak.  It's just that simple.

#prayer

Lord, In light of the disgusting words he said, it is really easy to judge and look down on Donald Trump right now.  As so many prominent figures have said, there truly is no justification for what he said.  But, Lord, I know that we deceive ourselves if we assume we never speak a careless or toxic word.  As we ponder and consider Trump's actions, let us apply wisdom for our own lives.  Let this situation be an example to us all that words can be dangerous.  Words can be hurtful.  Words can be troubling, and words reflect the state of our hearts, in a way our clothing, or our possessions, or our acts of service, or where our money is spent ever could.  Lord, as we align our hearts with yours, help our words to reflect that alignment, so that we can be "sweetness to the soul" for those around us, and ourselves.
Amen

#fridayflash - Producing Perseverance

#fridayflash

On Fridays we break from a week of trending topics in news and entertainment for a quick verse and a prayer.  While it's good to find God's truths in the topics that we read of and speak of everyday, we can get lost in the drama and complication of it all.  It is good to take a break and just ponder the truths in His word, without needing to relate it to our current situations.  I trust the scripture will speak to you if you open your heart for it to do so.

#scripture

James 1:2-3

Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance.

#prayer

Dear Lord,
My heart cries out with this prayer today.  My own life has seen so many trials, as have the lives of my loved ones as well.  This verse is so true, Lord, as this testing...this refining by fire has produced so much more trust, and strength in me, Lord.  These tests have only and always made me want to fight ever harder to know You and be closer to You.  I pray for strength in the face of hardship, Lord.  I pray that you help me keep my eyes on the things that truly matter - those things of everlasting significance.  In your holy, and precious name, Lord.
Amen

#devoday8 - Accountability in a time of "Secret Conversations"

#trendingtopic

In Facebook news, there is a new feature to the Facebook Messenger app called Secret Conversations.  With this new feature you can set your conversations to only appear on the device you started having them on.  Also, you can choose to have the conversations disappear after a certain amount of time, much like Snapchat.  Facebook claims this feature will help with "sensitive conversations" like those regarding health, or finances.  But, to be honest, I think we all know that it will be used for so much more!  We've come a long way since the days when, if you wanted to tell someone something who wasn't in your direct vicinity, you had to call an operator who connected you to that person, and stayed on the line during your entire conversation!  The further we've gone into the world of digital communication, the more secretive we all become.  We've become obsessed with privacy and secrecy.  And, while at times there is a need for privacy, I think this deserves a pause as we consider our private lives, and how they line up with the honesty and accountability that the Bible calls for.

#scripturetiein

As the creators of the new Facebook feature have noted, there are times when privacy is necessary.  When transferring personal information about our finances to a professional, say, or when we need to discuss the health issues of a loved one.  But, if we're being honest with ourselves, we know that people...maybe even we, ourselves...occasionally use digital messaging as a way to indulge in secrecy, in a way that feels disconnected from public society.  There are several messaging apps available now that already do what Facebook is adding, here.  And it doesn't take a particularly devious mind to realize that people are using these apps, as opposed to the text messaging features that come standard with their devices, to conduct private business, regularly, in a way that no one can trace, or find out about.

I posit that this kind of privacy and secrecy does not line up with the lifestyle of a believer and follower of Christ.

James 5:16 says
Therefore, confess your sins to one another and pray for one another that you may be healed.  The prayer of a righteous person has great power as it is working.

In Galations 6 we are told to restore a brother who sins in a spirit of gentleness, and bear one another's burdens.

The further we delve into secrecy and privacy, the further away we get from community with our fellow christians.  We are called to be open about our lives, our sins, and our burdens, so that we may bring healing to one another, in righteousness!  How are we to follow this mandate if we project one form of ourselves to the public, but hide another form in our private digital conversations?

Hebrews 4:13 says "and no creature is hidden from his sight, but all are naked and exposed to the eyes of him to whom we must give account."

The "him" here is God.  No matter how much we encrypt our conversations, God reads them all.  He sees them all.  And He will ask us each one day to account for them all.  The more we live our lives as a witness - out in the open for our faith communities to gain from, and give to, the more we can be sure that we are living according to His will.

#liveit

Do you have any of the apps I referenced above?  Ask yourself why.  What purpose do they serve for you.  Consider deleting them.

If you don't already have one, or more, find someone you feel safe with that you can confess to.  Sometimes people call this an "accountability partner".  We ALL need to be able to share our struggles and burdens with other believers.  It is not a sign of weakness, and it should not cause fear.

#prayer

Lord, at times I feel this particular point in history is the hardest in which to live out a transparent, on fire, accountable life for You.  We are tempted from all angles to keep ourselves to ourselves, and remain hidden from one another, at the soul-level.   Lord, I ask that you provide me with a community I can trust, and thank you for those I already have in my life that I can share my joys and struggles with.  Lord, remind me continually that while I am tempted to hide my vulnerabilities from even those I'm close with, you see them all.  For each of us reading this Lord, I pray that we would flee from the temptation to enter the darkness of secrecy, and run into the light of truth!
Amen

#devoday7 - Whatever is...

#trendingtopic

My Facebook trending feed tells me today that over 1 million people are talking about Arnold Schwarzenegger taking a photo with his son.  Yes, you read that correctly.  A man took a photo with his son and the whole world is talking about it.  What are they doing in the photo?  They are celebrating the young man's 21st birthday in Munich with steins of beer.  They are smiling.  They look like a typical father-son pair.  So, why is this photo getting so much attention?  One word: scandal.  This boy represents a scandalous affair between Schwarzenegger and his former housekeeper, while he was married to Maria Shriver, so now anything having to do with him is "scandalous".  It's sad, and it's sick.  As believers we are not to play into the hype surrounding scandal among our public figures.  There is something else we are instructed to do, and it will keep our minds pure.

#scripturetiein

Our obsession with scandal has always been a problem, but has gotten out of hand with the inception of the internet.  Recently I watched the Amanda Knox documentary and was overwhelmed by the injustice Ms. Knox had to endure because there were those who enjoyed speculating about her sexual habits, so much so that they concocted complete fabrications in order to sell newspapers and log views.  Amanda has since been acquitted by the Italian Supreme Court for the murder she was charged with, but these allegations of sexual deviance will follow her all of her life.  Similarly, this young man, this son of Arnold and his former housekeeper, will never NOT be known as the love child that came from an elicit affair.  He will go on to likely work and have his own family and make his own mistakes, but to the general public he will always be that love child.  It isn't right.  We know it isn't right.  And yet, it seems, we can never get enough of it.  What we allow our minds to dwell on and perpetuate has a direct result on our faithfulness to God.  We can become corrupted by immoral thoughts and gossip, making our witness vulnerable.  So what should we allow our minds to dwell on, instead?

Philippians 4:8 instructs us in this way:

Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things.

The author of the letters to Philippi is instructing the believers there, and all of us to set our minds on the beautiful benefits of lives well lived in Christ.  For every scandal you read about in the news or on the web, there are untold stories of unsung godly med and women who have spoken truth to Satan's lies.  There are people who are honorable, and promote social justice.  There are those who are striving after holiness with their whole hearts.  There are situations and relationships that are just so lovely to behold.  There are people who deserve commendation for their strong faith and good service.  There is excellence in the body of Christ.  The world around us contains so much evidence of God, and His worthiness of our praise!  These are the things that should fill our minds so much, that there is not room to dwell on scandal.

#liveit

This is a discipline.  We are conditioned from a young age to latch on to a juicy story and dwell on it, or even perpetuate it.  Think of the rumors that floated around your elementary, middle, and high school.  To specifically think on the positive and not ruminate on the negative, is a discipline.  Here's my suggestion, and something I plan to start today.  Keep a daily journal that looks like this:

• True:
• Honorable:
• Just:
• Pure:
• Lovely:
• Commendable:
• Excellent:
• Worthy of Praise:

and take a few notes for each bullet point.  If you can't think of anything you directly observed, use the web for good, and find stories online.  They are out there.  You just need to sift through all the gossip and vitriol to get to them.  Eventually, if you make this a daily ritual, your mind will start to become keen to looking for these things every day, knowing you will be taking note of them later.  In this way, you can start to undo the conditioning of looking for, and reveling in other people's scandals.

#prayer

Holy and precious Father,
I am so tempted to click the bait for each story of a celebrity who has missed the moral mark, and to cast judgments.  When I fill my mind with this I become negative, and pessimistic, and judmental.  There is no room for goodness and mercy and hope!  Lord, I repent of this now, and ask You to guide me and give me discernment to notice the stories of heavenly note around me.
Amen

#devoday6 - Where Thieves Do Not Break In and Steal

#trendingtopic

The internet has been abuzz over the past couple of days with news of the robbery of Kim Kardashian West in her husband's apartment in Paris.  Reportedly, Kim was staying in Paris over the weekend, when masked men broke in, bound her and stole jewelry and a very expensive jewelry box.  I can only imagine how terrified she was, and the relief of her family to learn she was unharmed.  My guess is that not much concern was given for the material goods that were stolen, in light of the potential harm that could have been done to this mother, wife, sister, and daughter.  The story made me think of my own vulnerability in the world, and of what really matters to me: that which cannot be stolen.

#scripturetiein

Matthew 6:19-20 instructs us to not to gather for ourselves temporary treasures on earth but rather, "lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust destroys and where thieves do not break in and steal".

All of our earthly possessions, no matter how well made or expensive, will eventually decay, rust, break, or become obsolete.  Jesus instructs us not to "lay up" these things.  To lay up means to store up, gather, or collect.  This is not to say we should not own anything, or enjoy a collection of items that brings us joy.  It is to say that these should not be where we place our value.  I like to say, we should own our possesssions, they should not own us.

Our "treasures in heaven" are what matters, and we are storing those treasures up in our time on earth.  Giving our hearts to the service of the Lord will pay dividends in heavenly value, and this should be where our focus lies.  Love, generosity, peace, and faith - these are the currencies traded in the heavenly market.  Investing in them now will assure a bond in heaven, waiting for your arrival!

It's likely that you will not be staying in Paris soon, travelling with millions of dollars worth of goods.  But it is true that if you own anything, you are vulnerable to it being taken or destroyed.  Think of your most prized possessions and how you would feel if they were suddenly gone.  Now, think of the heavenly treasures that you stand to receive one day.  Praise God that they cannot be destroyed or taken from you!  And continue to invest in that future bounty, moreso than you do your earthly storehouses.

#liveit

Take a look at your finances over the last 2 or 3 months.  Split it into categories (dining out, clothing, bills, groceries, gas, entertainment, gifts, etc.)  Look at where the majority of your money goes, after bills, groceries and gas.  Over the next month make a concerted effort to align your budget with your heart.  Give to your church, and give to the needy.

Perhaps you look at your financial picture and realize that there is not much there to give after bills and other necessities are paid for.  Give of your time and heart.  Volunteer, spend time with a depressed or lonely friend, send a note to a loved one.

The key word here is GIVE.  For the true believer, giving now is how we receive in heaven.

#prayer

Lord, I know that nothing I own here can come with me when I go to be with you.  Help me to focus on that which I will take with me: my soul.  I ask, Lord that you present me countless opportunities to give of myself.  I don't want my focus to be on receiving, Lord, I want it to be on giving and generosity.  Don't let my fears of insecurity for the future of my life on earth, diminish my security of a treasured life in heaven.  I thank you Lord for the resources I have, and the blessings you have given me.  I thank you for the possessions that bring me and my family joy.  Even more so, Lord, I thank you for my greatest possession: my faith.  Never let me forget how priceless it is, and how it can be used to your glory!
Amen

#devoday5 - The Mighty Rushing Wind

#trendingtopic

Hurricane Matthew is bearing down on Haiti, Jamaica and Cuba as I write.  It's being described as the strongest Atlantic hurricane in almost a decade.  The thought that always enters my mind when thinking about extreme weather events, is how suddenly they come and how they have the potential to upend the entirety of the lives they come in contact with, within moments.  Storms, for me, are the ultimate reminder that despite all of our planning and gathering, God is in control.  And, like a category 5 hurricane, He can change everything about your life, in an instant.

#scripturetiein

The Bible contains so many verses that liken God, or His presence to natural events.  Today we'll look at a couple verses.

Hosea 6:3
Let us know; let us press on to know the LORD; his going out is as sure as the dawn; he will come to us as the showers, as the spring rains that water the earth.

Acts 2:2
And suddenly there came from heaven a sound like a mighty rushing wind, and it filled the entire house where they were sitting.

I love Hosea 6:3 because it compares the assurance that God will come to us with the assurance we have that the dawn will come each day.  Yet, it also describes this coming like the rain.  While we can be sure that God will come to us when we press on to know Him, it may be that his coming is sudden and its affects are like a downpour on a picnic, on our carefully planned lives.  When truly searching for God, know these two things: a.) You will find Him. and b.) There is a large chance that when you do find Him, He will shake your life up quite a bit!

In Acts 2:2 we are brought to a scene of the disciples sitting quiet and scared, locked into a house, after the crucifixion of Christ.  Their leader is gone.  They are likely wanted as accomplices to His "crimes".  They don't know where to go, or what to do next.  And then this sound fills the room.  And it sounds like a "mighty rushing wind".  It fills the whole room.  It is the Holy Spirit, coming to rest upon each of them and inhabit them for the rest of their known days.  I believe the disciples knew that God was not done with them yet.  But I also believe they had no idea what was about to happen to them.  This is often how God reveals Himself in our lives.  As believers, we know He is working.  Often we don't really know what He is doing.  But sometimes, He comes to us so strongly, like a mighty rushing wind, that we can't help but be moved by Him.  Go on to read the rest of Acts and you'll see that that mighty rushing wind was the beginning of a complete change of life for these men, and the multitudes of people who would go on to believe what they preached and have the holy spirit in their lives, as well.

#liveit

The take away here is that we should live our lives absolutely sure of God's presence and absolutely unsure of what He may do next.  Complacency in life is an open invitation to God to shake things up, and remind you of His power and ultimate control.  This can seem scary, as we tend to seek comfort and routine, and the unknown is often quite frightening.  But unlike a natural storm that sweeps through and steals lives and then move away, leaving its victims with nothing, when God rains down on your life, He leaves you with His Spirit.  He may take and take from you, but what He leaves you with is SO much more lasting, and valuable.  Trust in His storm.  Let the wind take you.  Let the rain wash away those things you hold dear.  Embrace the storm and trust.  Trust God to provide in ways you never thought possible.

#prayer

Father God,  There are times in my life that I will never forget in which you came in like a hurricane, and left beauty in the rubble.  No matter how bad the storms were, I would never go back and undo them, as it was during them that I truly felt Your powerful presence in my life.  And yet, Lord, I know my bent is always towards routine and comfort.  Lord, I am ready for the wind and rain.  They will not move me from my quest to search and find you everyday, in everything.  I ask Lord that you make your presence known to myself and those around me in my life in a major way.  Thank you, Lord, for being trustworthy through it all.  Your word says you will never leave me or forsake me.  With each storm that comes, I know that I wait it out with You.  And you are all the company I need.
Amen

#fridayflash - The Earth is Full of His Unfailing Love

#fridayflash

On Fridays we break from a week of trending topics in news and entertainment for a quick verse and a prayer.  While it's good to find God's truths in the topics that we read of and speak of everyday, we can get lost in the drama and complication of it all.  It is good to take a break and just ponder the truths in His word, without needing to relate it to our current situations.  I trust the scripture will speak to you if you open your heart for it to do so.

#scripture

Psalm 33:4-6

For the word of the LORD is right and true; he is faithful in all he does.  The LORD loves righteousness and justice; the earth is full of his unfailing love.  By the word of the LORD the heavens were made, their starry host by the breath of his mouth.

#prayer

Oh LORD, I have never met anyone on this earth who is faithful in all that they do.  And you, LORD, are.  I never need to doubt your promises, and that is so reassuring!  LORD, give me a heart for righteousness and justice.  Let it be said of me that I love righteousness and justice!  LORD, in the midst of race issues, electoral drama, and a world filled with sin, it is easy for me to despair.  Help me to see your "unfailing love" everywhere I look around on this earth.  I thank you LORD for the daily evidences of your power in the wonders of your natural creation.  Help me appreciate and exalt you, daily, for all you are doing in my life, and the lives of those around me.
Amen

#devoday4 - The sin of mind, body and soul

#trendingtopic

Trending on Facebook today is a story about Juanita Broaddrick, an alleged victim of rape perpetrated by former President, Bill Clinton, and her response to recent comments made by Chelsea Clinton.  In a recent interview Chelsea was asked about how she feels when her father is attacked for his former sexual misconduct, and her mother is accused of covering it up for him.  Chelsea stated that it is somewhat of a "tradition" for her family to be attacked, and she doesn't take it too seriously.  Broaddrick took issue with this statement, seeing it as a downplaying of a traumatic event from her life, and used the opportunity to promote Donald Trump for president.  When we look at both candidates for president, one thing is sadly true: sexual impurity is a large part of both of their lives, or the lives of their families.  Unfortunately, this day in age, it would probably be very difficult to find candidates in which this statement couldn't be made.

#scripturetiein

Anyone who has been involved in a situation involving sexual malfeasance knows the pain and brokenness it can cause, not to mention the lasting impact of the publicity of it, if that is the case.  The Bible has a LOT to say about the topic.  Today we'll look at a couple verses.

1 Corinthians 6:18
Flee from sexual immorality.  Every other sin a person commits is outside the body, but the sexually immoral person sins against his own body.

This verse is bringing to light that sexual sin, unlike other sins, affects mind, body and soul.  We are wholly affected by our sexual choices, and this should be considered as we engage in sexual relationships.

1 Thessalonians 4:3-5
For this is the will of God, your sanctification: that you obstain from sexual immorality; that each one of you know how to control his own body in holiness and honor, not in the passion of lust like the Gentiles who do not know God.

This verse tells us that to "know God" is to follow his will, and his will is that we would be made holy.  A HUGE part of holiness is self-control.  Gaining control over our human and earthly instincts is key to being sanctified in Christ.

1 Corinthians 10:13
No temptation has overtaken you that is not common to man.  God is faithful, and He will not let you be tempted beyond your ability, but with the temptation He will also provide the way of escape, that you may be able to endure it.

This verse is for all those who would say they can't help it, or that the "devil made them do it".  No true believer should ever utter these words.  When we succumb to temptation it is not because we had not choice, or did not have the strength to overcome.  We have the strength because we have Christ, and He is our strength.  And this verse says He is faithful.  He will never allow us to be tempted beyond our means to control it, and will always provide a way out.  So, if feel stuck in a sexual cycle of passion, shame and conviction, look around you.  I guarantee there is a way out.

#liveit

Sexual sin, like any sin, is about resisting God to satisfy ourselves.  Because we are born into original sin, this will always be lurking in the background.  If you struggle with sexual sin, you should remove the points of temptation as much as possible.  These days, I know that's hard.  We all have internet enabled devices and the days of "keep your computer in the living room" are over.  If you have a spouse, talk with your spouse about your struggles and provide them the passwords and controls necessary to help keep you accountable.  If not a spouse, then a friend or sibling.  This surely is not easy, as this area of life seems so taboo in our society, but God will honor your efforts to keep away from temptation.

When you are tempted, find that way out.  Stop.  Breathe. Pray.  And, look around you.  It is never to late to say, "no" and walk away from the situation, no matter what anyone tells you.

Finally, I have written this devotional for those who struggle with engaging actively and willfully in sexual sin, not those who have been victimized by it.  If you have participated in sexual sin in a way that was against your consent, there is no condemnation for you.  If you struggle with guilt and shame because of this, take a moment now and give that over to God.  He can heal those broken areas of your past and make you pure again.  That is a promise.  Reach out to Him and He will be faithful.

#prayer

Lord, our world is a broken place, torn apart by pride and abuse of power, immorality and shame.  Even our most prominent political leaders, those who are vetted and filtered by our votes are often marred by sexual sin.  It seems to be a sin, Lord, that many cannot escape.  But I know, from your word, that this is not true for those that have You, God.  I pray today, Lord, for those who live everyday with this temptation and these struggles.  I pray Lord that you gently remind them of the strength they have in you and show them the way out.  I pray Lord that I would always remain vigilant about my own purity, never assuming Lord that this could never affect me.  Lord, I know it is only by your grace that I am able to avoid this area of sin in my own life.  Finally, Lord, I pray for all of those who have been passive victims of someone else's sexual sin.  Lord, bring healing to those areas, physical and emotional, that have been broken by this.  Show them the love and acceptance that only You can provide, Lord.
Amen

#devoday3 - Hanx and a Generosity of Spirit

#trendingtopic

A popularly trending topic on Facebook today is, Tom Hanks crashing the photo shoot of a very lucky bride and groom on their wedding day, in Central Park.  Go ahead, click on that link and watch the video, and I dare you not to feel all warm and tingly.  After two days of devos about really difficult and complex topics, I personally am so glad to bring you this cute little story, and what the Bible has to say about it all.  Now, the "Celebrity Faith Database" (which is a real thing) identifies Tom Hanks as a "firm believer in God" and a regularly attending church-goer with family background in Catholicism, Mormonism, and the Church of the Nazarene.  His wife is Greek Orthodox, and this seems to be how Hanx worships these days.  I have no idea about the personal relationship Tom has or does not have with Christ.  But I do know this.  Hanx seems to have a generosity of spirit that not many have now-a-days, and, sadly, not many of faith have.

#scripturetiein

What do I mean by "generosity of spirit"?  I define it by giving freely of your good will and kindness.  We see this concept in many eastern philosophies and religions such as Buddhism, Hinduism, and Seikism.  But we, as believers, should lead the way in having a generous spirit.  Not because our human "spirits" are innately kind and full of good will, but because we have the Holy Spirit inside of us, and every thing we do and say should be an outpouring of it!

Acts 10:37-38 says:
You yourselves know what happened throughout all Judea, beginning from Galilee after the baptism that John proclaimed: how God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Spirit and with power.  He went about doing good and healing all who were oppressed by the devil, for God was with him.

Romans 8;11 says:
If the Spirit of Him who raised Jesus from the dead is living in you, He who raised Christ from the dead will also give life to your mortal bodies through his Spirit who dwells in you.

So, if the Holy Spirit is what caused Jesus to do "good" and heal "all who were oppressed by the devil" and we have that same Spirit if we have faith, shouldn't that mean we should also do good and bring healing to a broken world, oppressed by sin?  Having a generous spirit is not a gift that is only bestowed to some Christians.  We all have the Spirit in us, and it should exude out of each of us!  But, the Bible says we have the ability to "quench" the spirit (1 Thessalonians 5:19), or "extinguish" it, in other words.  If we do not have a generous spirit, doing good and healing those around us of the pain that Satan brings, it is not because that just isn't how God made us.  It is because we are choosing to hide the Spirit, and that is a very sad, and serious thing.

#liveit

So, I get it.  If the average person, like myself, crashed a wedding photo shoot, that person would probably get arrested.  Tom Hanks is able to do this to much joy and thanksgiving because of his fame and popularity.  But that spirit of "how can I brighten someone else's day?" is in all of us!  Buy a coffee for someone in the line behind you.  Leave a note for a co-worker to tell them how much you appreciate them.  Buy or make a small gift for your spouse or other family member.  Hold a door.  Offer a smile.  Start a conversation with someone people don't usually talk to.  These are just a few ideas!  Oh! And, expect nothing in return.

And, of course, pray.  Pray for those around you, because the Bible says that even if you don't know what to pray for, the Spirit will intercede (that means take over) on your behalf and appeal to the Father for what the subject of your prayer needs (Romans 8:26).

#prayer

Lord, too often, I admit, I quench your Spirit within me.  In a spirit of negativity and mortality, I assume that I cannot do much to impact the lives of the people around me.  But, Lord, You can!  And You are in me!  Lord, thank you for the gift of the Holy Spirit!  Let me not experience this gift only for myself, but share it with the hurting world around me!  Lord, thank you for the example of people who naturally exude a generous spirit.  Forgive me for not always being among them, and strengthen me to be able to do so.
Amen

#devoday2 - Perspectives of Home

#trendingtopic

The number one trending topic on Facebook today is, of course, the U.S. Presidential Debate that aired last night.  This election has invoked many emotions in the citizens of this country, but the number one emotion that I have picked up from the conversations with friends and family, Facebook posts, and the news, is FEAR.  Many of us are genuinely afraid of what will happen to the country if one, or the other, candidate is elected president.  This is where biblical perspective is necessary.

#scripturetiein

Hebrews 13:14 tells us that "here we have no lasting city, but we seek the city that is to come".  What does that mean?  It means that, while we do live here right now, we will not always, and we are not meant to live here, always.  It means that we are sojourners here, on earth.  We have not reached our heavenly home yet, and we are passing through this world on our way there-sacrificing, submitting, and doing good so that others may join us one day in entering our true home.

#liveit

While stewardship in citizenry is important, and education about who we vote for is key, who becomes our next leader is not the end all, be all of our societal existence.

What do we expect of refugees to the United States-to those who are here until they can return home?  We expect them to be lawful.  We expect them to contribute.  We expect them to respect the environment around them.  But, we don't expect them to embrace all of our ways and be concerned with all of the things that concern us, as a nation, because this country is not their home.

This is exactly how we should think of our role in politics and governance here, on earth.  While this world is not our permanent home, it is what God has provided us right here, right now.  We should be lawful.  We should contribute from our finances and citizenship.  We should respect the environment around us.  We should not be consumed with earthly politics, though.  Earthly politics will, ultimately, have no affect on us.  While participation is prudent, as we can promote heavenly values in participation, and it does impact our daily lives, it should not become the goal.  Our goal is to make it back to heaven.  Our concerns should be with the governance and culture of our heavenly home.  While taking refuge here, we must never forget to honor our own King, and remain true to the way of life that is customary for citizens of heaven.

#prayer

Lord, as a refugee here on earth, I admit I am afraid of what the future holds, regarding the current American presidential elections.  Lord, I ask that you help me to wisely participate in the process of choosing our next leader.  Lord, I ask that you grant me the strength and patience to submit to the leadership of our next President, as your word instructs me to do.  Above all of this, though, Lord, I ask that you would continually keep my heart set on my true home.  Do not let me become embedded here, Lord.  Do not let me forget that my true home is with You.  Lord, while I respect and submit to my earthly leaders, I honor and adore you.  While I participate, and even enjoy some earthly ritual, Lord, I remain committed to your customs and ways.  Strengthen my resolve to maintain my heavenly identity while residing here in the world, Lord.
Amen

#devoday1 - Love in a Time of Body Cameras

#trendingtopic

The number one trending topic on Facebook today is the release of the body cam and dashcam footage of a recent police shooting of a black man in Charlotte, NC. No one can deny we are in a dark time, as a nation, where we are realizing we are not nearly as far along in race relationships as we thought.

If you're like me you might feel overwhelmed by the sheer number of incidences of this nature that pop up on a seemingly weekly basis. Given our inherent nature, we are tempted to either "fight" and join protests or demonstrations, or "flight" and go about your life as though the suffering of our fellow man does not affect us. I know "flight" has always been my m.o.

#scripturetiein

In Galatians we are told that "There is neither Jew, nor Greek, there is neither slave, nor free, there is no male and female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus" (Galatians 3:28).

In Matthew, when Jesus is asked which is the greatest commandment, he answers, "You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind. This is the great and first commandment. And a second is like it: You shall love your neighbor as yourself. On these two commandments depend all the Law and the Prophets." (Matthew 22:36-40)

#liveit

Shortest way to combine these messages: Love. Love God. Show God you love Him by loving everyone the way he does, without discrimination based on race, gender or social status. Love.

If you're angry and want to fight, try love instead. If you're scared and want to run and hide, try love instead.

If you assume all black men are instigating the police to violence, try love instead.

If you assume all white police officers are biased against black men, try love instead.

Because we all know, LOVE is patient, LOVE is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonor others, It is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no records of wrongs. LOVE does not delight in evil, but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres. (1 Corinthians 13:4-7) And perfect LOVE drives out fear (1 John 4:18) which is all that any form of blanket hatred is: a fear of what we cannot understand.

#prayer

Lord, I ask that you search my heart, find my biases against my fellow man, and eradicate them. Lord, help me to love all others the way that you do. Lord I want to not only say I love my neighbor, but know that my "neighbor" is everyone and to love is an action. Help me, Lord, to be brave enough to resist earthly responses to this complex problem, in favor of seeking your counsel and guidance. Let me never run from an opportunity to love, Lord, no matter the color of a person's skin, or color of a person's uniform.
Amen