I'm in the midst of leading a group of ladies through my ABC devotional in which every letter of the alphabet has a Biblical phrase to live by (https://www.respitefortheweary.com/category/awesome-bible-concepts-abc). Today we came to the Letter "L" and I thought I would share it with all of you. It's a familiar story, but as we enter a New Year, let's hear it again for the purpose of choosing "the good part" from the "get go"...

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‍ Loving Lord of my Life? Synopsis of Luke 10:38-42.

In the home of Mary, Martha, and Lazarus, Jesus was speaking to a room full of people who were hungry to hear truth. His words were full of life and peace, so the crowd sat a His feet, feasting on every word. Meanwhile, Martha was scurrying back and forth in the kitchen preparing food for the people. When she looked up and saw Mary sitting at Jesus' feet, she became indignant. She asked Jesus, "Lord, do You not care that my sister has left me to do all the serving alone? Then tell her to help me." Jesus, who loved Martha dearly, said in response, "Martha, Martha, you are worried and bothered by so many things; but only a few things are necessary, really only one…". At this particular time, Martha was allowing the distractions of the world to keep Jesus from being the Lord of her life.

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‍Loving Lord of my Life! Synopsis of Luke 10:38-42 (same passage).

‍Jesus continued His conversation with Martha and pointed to her sister saying, "For Mary has chosen the good part, which shall not be taken away from her." Mary often sat at the feet of Jesus in order to hear His soothing words; they had become life and peace to her soul. She intentionally chose to make room in her life to be still before Him so she could receive His words of grace and guidance; for Jesus, friend of sinners, had become the Lord of her life.

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In comparing these two sisters, both friends of Jesus, here are a few questions:

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Who do I most resemble, Martha or Mary?

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What are my main distractions in my life today?

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Do I want to sit still with the Lord Jesus, with His living word?

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Ugh, the Martha/Mary story. Oh so convicting at times! Interestingly, my post writing was delayed because I have been scurrying back and forth a lot lately. Whew, I'm tired. Then I hear the words, "(Chris, Chris) you are worried and bothered by so many things…". How quickly I can get off track.Thankfully, Jesus waits for me to be still, both body and soul. I must remember that my morning quiet time with Him is the most productive thing I do all day. There, I make Him the Lord of my life all over again-- listening to His words of healing and hope, obeying Him when He tells me to pick things up or put things down, trusting Him with my Edited agenda. When I am filled up in this way, my heart and mind are different; the scurrying and worrying are changed to peace and prayer, and the things I do become an act of worship rather than a list of frustrations. The day, all day, belongs to my Lord.

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Make a intentional decision to be still; choose the one necessary thing…the good part…it will not be taken away from you. Slow down to a complete stop, then really listen at Jesus' feet, so you can be refreshed in truth and rerouted in love. He is waiting especially for you.

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Several years ago, I wrote a devotional entitled Awesome Biblical Concepts, a Devotional for Every Family. This devotional offers a challenging phrase using alliteration, and then expounds on it by looking at two different Bible stories, each one teaching us how to, or how not to live. I hope you will be encouraged by God’s Word along with these alphabetical phrases.

So, let us begin with A: Ask and Accept.

Ask and Accept? A synopsis of Mark 10:17-22.

‍‍There once was a rich young ruler who approached Jesus asking, “Good Teacher, what must I do to inherit eternal life?” Jesus, knowing the pride in this man’s heart, and the dependence he had on himself in following rules and gaining wealth, said to him, “Go, sell everything you have and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven. Then come, follow Me.” At this, the man’s face fell. He went away sad, because he had great wealth. This rich young ruler asked, but did not accept Jesus’ offer of true and abundant life. He was too full already.

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Ask and Accept! A synopsis of John 4:1-42.

‍However, there once was a Samaritan woman who went to a well to draw water. There, she met Jesus who was waiting to meet with her. Jesus, because He was God in the flesh, could see into her heart; He knew she was a lost and lonely woman. While at the well, He looked her in the eyes and gently told her that He cared. He offered her His living water, telling her that if she drank of it, she would never thirst again. With eagerness she asked for this water; and with joy she accepted Jesus as the Messiah. As a result, she ran to tell the whole city about Him, causing many others to believe.

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When looking at these two contrasting stories, the challenging questions to us today are:

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Will I ask and accept? I must realize that when I ask for His way, I must deny my own.

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Do I believe His path is better, more rich and full than what I can accumulate by myself?

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Will I lay down my selfish ambitions and my ruling addictions, and hold out my empty hands and my humbled heart for Him to fill in His time and in His way?

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Take note of the rich young ruler; he walked away with his pockets full, yet downcast, while the Samaritan woman, left her water pot behind and ran to the city with her heart overflowing with joy.

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Ask and Accept, my friend.

Receive His gifts of love, joy, and peace.

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Embrace his forgiveness, redemption, and power,

His beauty, guidance, and grace.

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Fill your vessel with all of who He is; resist the fleeting things of this world.

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Hear Him say to you personally, “Whoever drinks of the water I give him will never thirst. Indeed, the water I give him will become in him a spring of water welling up to eternal life.” (John 4:14)

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‍Ask and accept, drink and be filled, savor and be satisfied.

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In keeping with our ABC phrases, A is "Ask and Accept", and now B is "Believe and Be Bold."

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Believe and Be Bold? A synopsis of Jonah 1:1-17.

The Lord said to Jonah, “Arise, go to Nineveh the great city, and cry against it, for their wickedness has come up before Me.” But Jonah rose up… found a ship which was going to Tarshish, paid the fare, and went down into it to go with them to Tarshish from the presence of the Lord. And the Lord hurled a great wind on the sea and there was a great storm on the sea so that the ship was about to break up… At Jonah’s command, the reluctant sailors hurled Jonah into to the sea and it became calm. And then mercifully, the Lord appointed a great fish to swallow Jonah. Jonah believed in God, but chose not to be bold in his faith. He actually ran in the opposite direction.

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Believe and Be Bold! A synopsis of 1 Samuel 17.

However, there once was a young shepherd boy named David. His father ordered him to take food to his brothers who were soldiers in the Israelite army. David went to the Valley of Elah, only to find the Israelites full of fear and dismay concerning the Philistines. Their champion-giant Goliath had been jeering them, morning and evening for forty days. Young David, uninhibited by the giant, said, “Who is this uncircumcised Philistine, that he should taunt the armies of the living God?” Because David believed in his God and was bold in his faith, he picked up his sling and five stones and ran quickly toward the battle line. There in the Elah Valley, Goliath fell on his face to the ground, struck by a single stone that sank into his forehead.

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When contrasting these two stories, the questions are:

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When I hear uncomfortable or “impossible” instructions from the Lord, will I believe and be bold?

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Will I run away from Him like Jonah, or will I run toward the battle line like David? Jonah tried to flee the presence of the Lord, which of course is impossible; David, however, was fully assured that his God was not only with him, but also that His power was going to do the impossible through him.

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I encourage you to know your God and wholeheartedly believe in all of who he is; and then, move steadily forward in boldness, knowing that he will be both present and active in all that he has asked you to do. If you choose this route, both you and all those around you will be blessed.

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So decide today to run to your battle line, because faithful is He who calls you, and He also will bring it to pass. (I Thessalonians 5:24)

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My last two posts were entitled:
Ask and Accept
Believe and Be Bold
Today it’s, Call on Christ.

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Call on Christ? Synopsis of Mark 10:32-45.

Jesus was once walking towards Jerusalem with two of His disciples, James and John. After Jesus finished explaining very clearly to them that He would soon be condemned to death, they quickly changed the subject, disregarding Jesus’ important words about His future. Instead, these two brothers were focused on themselves, and from this self-centered mindset, they said, “Teacher, we want You to do for us whatever we ask of You.” And Jesus said to them, “What do you want Me to do for you?” James and John asked to sit on either side of His throne when He came to power. They called on Christ to do something for their own glory, not God’s glory; therefore, Jesus could not give them what they wanted.

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Call on Christ! Synopsis of Mark 10:46-52

‍However, there once was a blind man named Bartimaeus. As Jesus was heading to Jerusalem with his disciples, they could hear Bartimaeus crying out, “Jesus, Son of David, have mercy on me!” Many were sternly insisting that he stop his cries, but he persisted in calling on Christ, whom he believed to be the Messiah (this is why he called Jesus the “Son of David”). Jesus heard Bartimaeus and answered him by saying, “What do you want me to do for you?” The blind man quickly responded, “Rabboni (meaning ‘my Master’), I want to regain my sight.” Jesus chose to heal Bartimaeus’ blind eyes because of his faith-filled heart. Once he regained his sight, Bartimaeus began to follow Jesus on the road, bringing glory to his Healer, instead of glory to himself.

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When looking at these two contrasting stories, here are some questions:

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Am I seeking God?

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Am I asking God for something solely for my selfish ambition or fleshly pleasure?

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What is the motive behind my request?

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I'm convicted. Often, I catch myself asking the Lord for things that are centered around me: my comfortable lifestyle, my trial-free plans, my definition of success, my timing for my kid's future, on and on. Much like the disciples in the above story, I have an agenda and I want God to fill it, sooner than later. And if God says “no”, I’m confused and hurt.

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But then, the Lord speaks, calling me to remember who he is, and reminding me that he indeed wants to bless me in his own purposeful way. Like Bartimeaus, He wants to open my eyes to his grace and to his glory which is far better than any self-driven achievement or sole-human pleasure that I could hope for. Bartimeus' physical healing was pointing us to his wide-eyed faith in his Savior.

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Call on Christ! Fully trust him to do beautiful things in your life, things that will both benefit your character as well as bless those around you. He cannot answer our selfish prayers because he loves us too much. He wants to give you and me much more than we can ever imagine as we seek him with a whole heart.

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He wants to give us ...his way, his truth, and his life. You and I are meant to be filled with his glory.

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Now to Him who is able to do exceeding abundantly beyond all that we ask or think, according to the power that works within us, to Him be the glory in the church and in Christ Jesus to all generations. Ephesians 3:20-21

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My three previous posts are:
Ask and Accept
Believe and Be Bold
Call on Christ.
Today, it’s Delightfully Do.

Delightfully Do? Synopsis of Genesis 2:16-17 and Genesis 3

‍In the beginning, God created the heavens and the earth (Genesis 1:1). He also created Adam and Eve and had a sweet personal relationship with them in the perfect garden called Eden. He had made them in His image, and told them to enjoy and cultivate the garden. He also told them they could eat from any of the trees except for one. His reason for this boundary was because he loved them: “You shall not eat from the tree of knowledge of good and evil or you will surely die.” Sadly, instead of delightfully doing what God decreed, both Adam and Eve disobeyed the Lord. Having been tricked by the serpent, they doubted God's word and ate from the tree. As a result, both sin and death entered the world. They were forced to leave the garden, yet not without the promise of a future Redeemer.  

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Delightfully Do! Synopsis of Genesis 6:5-22; 7:15-17

However, there once was a man named Noah. He loved God, and obeyed Him. Noah was living in a time when the earth was corrupt in the sight of God, and the earth was filled with violence… every intent of the thoughts of (mankind’s) heart was only evil continually…And the Lord was sorry that He had made man on the earth, and He was grieved in His heart…But Noah found favor in the eyes of the Lord. God told Noah to build an arc for himself and his family because He was going to send a great flood to blot out the violence of mankind. Noah, who was human and most likely experienced days of doubt, chose to push that feeling aside and instead do what God asked of him. I wonder, did he "whistle while he worked" to help ignore the mocking around him? Not a bad idea! We do know this: as a result of his active obedience, the arc was built, he and his family entered in, and they and the selected living creatures were safe from the great flood that covered the earth. (*Good news, Noah's arc points to the Jesus' cross. Just as the arc saved them physically, so does our faith in Christ spiritually. Let's enter in!)

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When looking at these two contrasting stories from Scripture, here are some questions:

Do I "delightfully do" what God says in His word?

Can I simply trust Him when His commands seem questionable?

What is one thing I can do today, choosing an attitude of "delight" rather than "doubt"?

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God said to Adam, “Don’t eat”, because He knew it would bring death. And He said to Noah, “Build a boat”, because He knew it would save his life. God’s words to us are written with the same intent. He loves us and knows what is best for us. He has given us His living word for our protection not our punishment. His ordained boundaries are full of eventual blessings.

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Choose to delightfully do even when it’s hard, or I should say, especially when it’s hard. Remember, He has the best in mind for you. Through the power of His abiding Spirit, choose to trust and obey.

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I will run the way of Your commandments, for You will enlarge my heart. Psalm 119:32

Your testimonies also are my delight; they are my counselors. Psalm 119:24

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The ABC posts continue. To review: Ask and Accept, Believe and Be Bold, Call on Christ, Delightfully Do. Today, it’s Eagerly Exclaim!

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Eagerly Exclaim? Synopsis of 1 Samuel 2:12-16, 27-35.

There once was a priest named Eli who served in the temple of the Lord. God had chosen him and his two sons, Hophni and Phinehas, to carry out the duties of the sacrificial offerings of the Israelite people. This priestly role was a high honor and privilege; yet, Eli and his sons disrespected the ordained position. Instead of offering a burnt sacrifice of meat to the Lord for the people, Hophni and Phinehas would cook and eat the best part of the offering themselves. They were not eagerly exclaiming the name of the Lord to the people of Isreal. In fact, Eli was allowing his sons to do just the opposite; their actions were defaming Him. The Lord asked Eli, “Why do you kick at My sacrifice and at My offering which I have commanded in My dwelling, and honor your sons above Me by making yourselves fat with the choicest of every offering of My people Israel?” Because of these misdeeds, unfortunate consequences played out with Eli and his household.

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Eagerly Exclaim! Synopsis of 1 Samuel 3.

However, there once was a young boy named Samuel who grew up in the temple of the Lord in the midst of Hophni, Phinehas, and Eli. One night the Lord spoke to Samuel as he was lying down beside the ark of God which was in the temple. Samuel mistook God’s voice for Eli’s voice three different times in the night. When he finally realized it was the Lord, he said,“Speak Lord, for Your servant is listening.” And from that point forward, Samuel became a spokesperson for the Lord and he eagerly exclaimed His name. Thus Samuel grew and the Lord was with him and let none of his words fail. And all Israel from Dan even to Beersheba knew that Samuel was confirmed as a prophet of the Lord. God blessed Samuel for his listening ears and obedient heart.

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When comparing these two passages, here are a couple of questions:

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Am I like Samuel, speaking words of truth and serving the people around me?

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Or am I more like Eli’s sons, misusing the gifts God has generously placed before me, all for my own benefit?

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What practical thing can I do today to be more like Samuel?

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Sometimes I confuse the main point of life: God is at the center, not me. And God is a good, good God! He is for me! I am here for the purpose of eagerly exclaiming His good news, His love, His forgiveness, His compassion, His grace…all of which are found in Christ. When I do proclaim His name to others, in bold words or with loving actions, I am living for a purpose bigger than myself.

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Eagerly exclaim His love and his truth towards a neighbor, family member, or even a stranger today. See how this act of obedience will not only bless the recipient’s heart, but experience how it will increase your faith-walk as well.

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Blessed be the Lord God, the God of Israel, who alone works wonders. And blessed be His glorious name forever; and may the whole earth be filled with His glory. Amen and Amen. Psalm 72:18

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ABC: Ask and Accept, Believe and Be Bold, Call on Christ, Delightfully Do, Eagerly Exclaim, and now Forgiven to Forgive.

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Forgiven to Forgive? Synopsis of Matthew 18:21-35

One day the disciple Peter asked Jesus to explain forgiveness. Jesus answered him with a parable: There once was a king who wanted to settle his accounts with his slaves. One slave owed the king a tremendous amount of money, which he could not repay. When the king summoned him, the slave fell on his face before the throne and begged him for mercy, saying, “Have mercy on me and I will repay you everything.” The king felt compassion and released him and forgave him the debt. Ironically, not too long after receiving mercy, this very same slave went to one of his fellow slaves to collect only a small debt from him. The servant angrily seized his fellow slave by the throat and began to choke him demanding, “Give me what you owe!” The slave then fell on his face and began begging, “Have patience with me and I will repay you.” However the forgiven servant did not forgive his fellow slave.

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Forgiven to Forgive! Synopsis of Matthew 18:28-35 (the same passage).

As we look at the parable above, of course the king in the story represents the Lord Jesus, and each one of us are like the servants. None of us are able to pay our enormous sin debt; it is much too great. Yet our King mercifully decided to take our debts away from us by putting them on His shoulders; our debt was paid in full at the cross. He, in turn, asks us to forgive others. We are forgiven to forgive! King Jesus’ mercy brings freedom, and this freedom is meant to be shared withthose around us. He promises, Blessed are the merciful for they shall receive mercy (Mathew 5:7).

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When I compare the two main characters in this parable, the king and the forgiven (yet unforgiving) servant, here are a few questions:

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Who am I most like?

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Can I really forgive someone that has hurt me?

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How?

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I know who I want to be most like. But I must realize, I cannot even begin to forgive like King Jesus does, without having HIS POWER within me. I am a natural being, and Christ-like forgiveness is a supernatural act. Without His Spirit in me, I am destined to be controlled by the very real emotions of bitterness, resentment, confusion, hurt, and anger towards my wrongdoer. I must bring these real and raw feelings to the Lord and ask Him to help me deal with them, heal from them, and then ask Him to fill me with His peace. Again, it’s impossible to forgive in my own effort, but NOTHING is impossible with God! (Luke 1:37) He can soften any willing heart. Dear Lord, let it be mine!

I have seen forgiveness beautifully played out in specific people who have experienced some of the most extreme circumstances, and I have to say, these people are some of the most radiant and FREE people on earth. God gave them the ability to forgive, and now He is using them mightily.

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Is there someone you are thinking of right now--someone that has hurt you in some way? Reconcile your hurt with the Lord today. Ask Him to help you forgive. He is the One who brings peace to your heart, even if your relationship with this person never changes. Ask Him to flood You with the mercy that flows from His powerful blood. Remember, you are forgiven to forgive.

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“Father, forgive them; for they do not know what they are doing.” Luke 23:34

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Ask and Accept, Believe and Be Bold, Call on Christ, Delightfully Do, Eagerly Exclaim, Forgiven to Forgive…Go and Give with Gladness.

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Go and Give with Gladness? Synopsis of Acts 5:1-11.

The book of Acts speaks about the formation of the early church. Believers were filled with the Holy Spirit and the church was alive with eagerness and excitement in coming together as a unified body. Many gave freely of their possessions to meet the needs of others. It was a powerful, beautiful time in biblical history. However, one man named Ananias, along with his wife Sapphira, only pretended to be part of this unity. Like others, they sold their land to benefit the church; but instead of giving with gladness, they secretly kept back some of the money they made from the sale. They were not only lying to the church members and the church leaders, but more dangerously, they were lying to the Holy Spirit. Their lack of trust in the Lord, as well as their deception, brought about their untimely demise.

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Go and Give with Gladness!  Synopsis of Acts 4:32-37.

‍However, in the same church body that Ananias and Sapphira were a part of, there was a man named Barnabas. Not by coincidence, his name means Son of Encouragement. He, being filled with the Holy Spirit, was given the gift of compassion towards the poor. His heart was pure in his motives and he was always willing to go and give to the downtrodden. In fact, Barnabas made the decision to sell his tract of land and give all the collected money to the church. His cheerful heart and his monetary gift blessed all those around him.

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When looking at these two contrasting stories, here are a few questions:

Do I like to share?

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Am I a cheerful giver?

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Am I willing to grow in this area when convicted by the Lord?

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In the Bible stories above, I don’t think the Lord was concerned by the amount of money that these individuals gave (or withheld) from the church. He was, and always is, peering into the heart of the individual. Our heart is the center of our worship, so making a heart-decision to give something freely is first of all, a sacrificial act to the Lord, that He, in turn, uses to bless others. He can take any gift of any kind and multiply it in any way He chooses. (Another Bible story: think of the little boy's five loaves two fish that Jesus divided among thousands on the hillside. God can do anything with our faith-filled gifts of the heart.)

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What do you have to give today? Time? Money? Encouragement? A helping hand? Trust the Lord fully, respond to the Holy Spirit’s nudging; don’t hold back something that God is asking you to give in order to bless others. Go, and give with gladness. Be assured that He smiles on your act of worship. No telling how He will multiply your gift among those who need it.

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Each one must give as he has decided in his heart, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver.  2 Corinthians 9:7

Check out my previous ABC posts: Ask and Accept, Believe and Be Bold, Call on Christ, Delightfully Do, Eagerly Exclaim, Forgiven to Forgive, Give with Gladness…Helper, Please Help:

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Helper, Please Help? Synopsis of Acts 7:54-8:1; Acts 9:1-2.

There once was a high standing Jewish leader named Saul who persecuted the faithful followers of Jesus. These new Christians believed in the Messiah’s resurrection, and they now lived with the Holy Spirit inside of them. Saul passionately pursued these men and women, even to the point of imprisonment and death. Saul wanted to stamp out the good news. Although he believed in God the Father, he could not accept Jesus as His Son, nor the Holy Spirit, who came to help all Christ-followers in their daily faith-walk.

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Helper, Please Help! Synopsis of Acts 9:3-22.

‍But then one day, as Saul was traveling on the road to Damascus with the purpose of gathering and imprisoning the Christ followers, God stopped Saul in his tracks. Suddenly, a bright light appeared that brought Saul to his knees and blinded him in the process. Jesus’ voice then spoke saying, “Saul, Saul why are you persecuting Me?” From that point onward, Saul began to understand the error of his ways. A man named Ananias was sent to heal his eyes; and at this time, Saul by faith, received the Holy Spirit. Saul was given a new passion: Jesus. The remainder of Paul’s life was full of persecution and trial for Jesus’ sake, but he pressed onward, relying on the Holy Spirit each step of the way. Because of unrelenting hardship, Paul embraced these words as truth from his Lord and Savior: My grace is sufficient for you, for My power is perfected in weakness. (II Cor. 12:9) The Helper had become his help.

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When contrasting the before-Christ-Saul and after-Christ-Paul… I want to be like Paul! His passion didn’t change, but his purpose did.

How can I live my out faith in this same way, in my world?

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God gave me an opportunity to do so just last night. I was sitting in the window seat of an airplane, really really tired, not wanting to talk to anybody--at all! Then the sweet stewardess led a young woman to sit beside me. When she sat down, I realized that underneath the fluffy pillow and blanket she was holding, a 1 month old baby was pressed against her chest. And this newborn had a sour smelly diaper.  My first selfish reaction was, Really?!! Then, because I was working on this post in the airport only 30 minutes before, I prayed, Helper, please help…me make it through this flight without this baby waking up! But then, as I had my head turned away, looking out the window, avoiding all smells and small talk, a convicting Light came on in my heart. I realized I was not supposed to be making self-centered requests for a comfortable flight home. I was supposed to be praying, Helper, please help…me know what to say to this young frazzled unmarried new mom who may not know You personally. Well, thankfully, by her initiation, we chatted the whole flight; she told me about her upbringing, and the more she talked, the more my heart ached for her. She asked me questions about life, about relationships and she listened to my answers. She was hungry for truth; she said she longed for peace. I told her about Jesus and the good news: there is a Helper who can help. When we landed, I gathered her things, walked her off the plane, bought her some water and SunChips, went with her to get the sleeping baby’s diaper changed(!), and then got her situated at her next gate. Now, I’m praying, Helper, please, help her! Continue to pursue her with Your love through Your people.

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To close, here are a couple of questions to ponder:

Do I ask God for help? In little and big things, ask.

Do I accept his help? His Spirit can help you do very hard things.

Trust that His powerful Spirit lives in you. Call on Him and He will come.

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And I will ask the Father, and He will give you another Helper, that He may be with you forever; that is the Spirit of truth. John 14:16-17a

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Check out my previous posts for other ABC scripture-based phrases. Last week’s was Helper, please Help! This week it’s Invade me and Involve me.

Invade me and Involve me? Synopsis of  Exodus 5-14.

‍During ancient times, the Israelite nation was in great distress because they were living as slaves in Egypt. The Pharaoh mistreated the Israelites by demanding hard physical labor with little rest and nourishment. Thankfully, God heard the desperate cry of His people; He then selected Moses to deliver them from bondage. When Moses and his brother Aaron approached Pharaoh about the Israelites’ freedom, he refused to listen. In fact, he responded to them by saying, “Who is the Lord that I should obey His voice to let Israel go? I do not know the Lord, and besides, I will not let Israel go.” Pharaoh did not allow God to invade him and involve him; in the end, his stubborn denial and hardened heart became his downfall.

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Invade me and Involve me! Synopsis of 4:10-12, Exodus 14

‍However, Moses, although tentative at first, obediently followed the Lord’s commands. He faced Pharaoh and told him to let God’s people go. When Pharaoh refused, God worked through Moses by sending plague after plague on the Egyptian land and people. Finally, Pharaoh relented and released the slaves, only to chase after them a short time later. The fearful Israelites came to the edge of the vast Red Sea with nowhere to turn. God once again invaded and involved Moses by telling him to lift up his staff and stretch out his hand; and through God’s power, the Sea divided into two walls of water, and all God’s people walked through on dry ground towards freedom.

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When I look at these two contrasting biblical characters, here are some questions I ask myself:

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Do I realize that the Holy Spirit is alive in me?

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Do I realize that my flesh can quench the Spirit?

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At this moment, is there something the Lord wants me to be involved in concerning his kingdom work?

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Am I willing?

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I am so thankful for the life-changing truth of the gospel. Because of the Christ’s death and resurrection, the Holy Spirit can now invade and involve anyone who believes on His name. Pharaoh did not believe, Moses did. Pharaoh was stubborn, Moses was submissive… and their stories unfolded.

You too, have something of Him to give this world–something that only you can give. Believe you are His unique workmanship. Allow Him to invade you and involve you.

On the day I called, You answered me; You made me bold with strength in my soul. Ps 138:3

The previous ABC post was Invade me and Involve me. The next letter and phrase is J:Just for the Unjust.

Just for the Unjust? Synopsis of John 18:33-40.

‍During Jesus’ questioning and trial before Pilate, a mocking crowd, spear-headed by the high ranking Jewish leaders, had gathered. These jealous leaders wanted Jesus to be put to death because He was gaining many followers into what they believed was heresy. Pilate was unsure of what to do because he found no guilt in this man (Jesus). He eventually spoke this option to the heated crowd, “You have a custom that I release one prisoner to you at the Passover. So, do you want me to release to you the King of the Jews?” They shouted back, “Not this man, but Barabbas!” Now Barabbas was a revolutionary. Barabbas was certainly not a just man; therefore, he could not have given his life for an unjust people.

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Just for the Unjust! Synopsis of John 19.

‍But then there was Jesus, King of kings and Lord of lords. No blemish, no flaw, no sin, no guilt. All love, all truth, all mercy, all God. The story unfolds: Then Pilate took Jesus and had Him flogged. The soldiers also twisted together a crown of thorns, put it on His head, and threw a purple robe around Him. And they repeatedly came up to Him and said, “Hail King of the Jews!” and were slapping His face…when the chief priests and the temple police saw Him they shouted, “Crucify! Crucify!” And soon afterwards, Jesus was nailed to a cross and put to death, becoming the One and only, Just for the unjust.

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When I look at the above story, I ask myself:

Who am I like in this story?

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Sadly, I can see myself in all the characters:

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I am Pilate who sometimes gives into people pleasing.

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I am one of the chief priests, pressing forward with my own selfish agenda.

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I am one of the soldiers, mocking and striking and turning away.

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I am Barabbas, a sinner who was released, with the God-Man dying in my place.

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And with these thoughts, I then want to cry out, “Dear Jesus, thank You!"

‍You became poor that I might become rich!

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‍You gave Your life a ransom for many!

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‍You who knew no sin became sin!

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‍By Your stripes I am healed!

‍ (2 Cor. 8:9; Matt. 20:28; 2 Cor. 5:21; Is. 53:5).

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Let's spend today filled up with humble gratitude.

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For Christ died for sins once for all, the just for the unjust, so that He might bring us to God… (I Peter 3:18).

‍Amen and amen.

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The last few ABC posts have been: Helper, please Help, Invade me and Involve me, and Just for the Unjust. The next letter and phrase brings us to Kind Words, Kind Ways.

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‍Kind Words, Kind Ways? Synopsis of 1 Kings 21:1-25; 2 Kings 9:30-37.

‍There once was a queen named Jezebel who reigned over Israel during the days of Elijah the prophet. She was an extremely evil queen who persuaded her husband, King Ahab, and all of Israel, to worship Baal. Unkind words and unkind ways continuously poured from Jezebel's heart. For example, she deliberately had an innocent man, Naboth, falsely accused and then stoned to death just so her husband Ahab could possess his piece of land in order to grow a vegetable garden. Jezebel's evil heart brought about much death and destruction in Israel; in the end, her own actions brought about her untimely and brutal demise.

‍Kind Words, Kind Ways! Synopsis of 1 Kings 17:1-16.

‍During this same time period, there was a widow who lived alone with her son. A severe drought had come over Israel due to God's judgment and Elijah's prayer. This woman was gathering sticks to build a fire for her and her son's last meal when the Elijah approached her. He said to her, "Would you bring me a little water in a jar so I may have a drink…and bring me, please, a piece of bread." Although the woman had only a handful of flour and a little oil, she willingly prepared a small cake from what she had. As a result, Elijah said to her, "The jar of flour will not be used up and the jug of oil will not run dry until the day the Lord gives rain on the land." God daily blessed her for her kind words and kind ways.

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What an extreme contrast between these two women! One was full of selfish ambition and the other was the picture of selflessness. My intentions may not ever be as evil as Jezebel's, but I do have to stop and ask myself:

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What is the motive behind the things I think, say, and do?

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Am I pushing others aside or manipulating a situation to get my own way?

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Who can I be kind to today?

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My prayer is that my words and ways would reflect that of the widow's, even when the situation is difficult or the circumstances are harsh. I must remember, kindness is a fruit of the Spirit. So really, if Christ lives in me, then through his Spirit, I can be kind (even to people that I might not think deserve it!).

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Kindness is a choice.

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Kindness softens hearts.

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Kindness reflects God to others.

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Today, intentionally choose kind words and kind ways. Ask the Lord to show you exactly who He wants you to bless; then ask Him to show you exactly what He wants you to say or do for this person. And then, do it. Your small portion and your act of faith, like the widow's, is all you need for the Lord to abundantly bless, not only the recipient, but your heart as well.

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‍For we also once were foolish ourselves, disobedient, deceived, enslaved to various lusts and pleasures, spending our life in malice and envy, hateful, hating one another. But when the kindness of God our Savior and His love for mankind appeared, He saved us... Titus 3:3-5

The previous ABC posts have been: Invade me and Involve me, Just for the Unjust, and Kind words, Kind ways. Today is L: Loving Lord of my Life.

‍ Loving Lord of my Life? Synopsis of Luke 10:38-42.

In the home of Mary, Martha, and Lazarus, Jesus was speaking to a room full of people who were hungry to hear truth. His words were full of life and peace, so the crowd sat a His feet, feasting on every word. Meanwhile, Martha was scurrying back and forth in the kitchen preparing food for the people. When she looked up and saw Mary sitting at Jesus' feet, she became indignant. She asked Jesus, "Lord, do You not care that my sister has left me to do all the serving alone? Then tell her to help me." Jesus, who loved Martha dearly, said in response, "Martha, Martha, you are worried and bothered by so many things; but only a few things are necessary, really only one…". At this particular time, Martha was allowing the distractions of the world to keep Jesus from being the Lord of her life.

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‍Loving Lord of my Life! Synopsis of Luke 10:38-42 (same passage).

‍Jesus continued His conversation with Martha and pointed to her sister saying, "For Mary has chosen the good part, which shall not be taken away from her." Mary often sat at the feet of Jesus in order to hear His soothing words; they had become life and peace to her soul. She intentionally chose to make room in her life to be still before Him so she could receive His words of grace and guidance; for Jesus, friend of sinners, had become the Lord of her life.

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In comparing these two sisters, both friends of Jesus, here are a few questions:

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Who do I most resemble, Martha or Mary?

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What are my main distractions in my life today?

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Do I want to sit still with the Lord Jesus, with His living word?

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Ugh, the Martha/Mary story. Oh so convicting at times! Interestingly, my post writing was delayed because I have been scurrying back and forth a lot lately. Whew, I'm tired. Then I hear the words, "(Chris, Chris) you are worried and bothered by so many things…". How quickly I can get off track.Thankfully, Jesus waits for me to be still, both body and soul. I must remember that my morning quiet time with Him is the most productive thing I do all day. There, I make Him the Lord of my life all over again-- listening to His words of healing and hope, obeying Him when He tells me to pick things up or put things down, trusting Him with my Edited agenda. When I am filled up in this way, my heart and mind are different; the scurrying and worrying are changed to peace and prayer, and the things I do become an act of worship rather than a list of frustrations. The day, all day, belongs to my Lord.

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Make a intentional decision to be still; choose the one necessary thing…the good part…it will not be taken away from you. Slow down to a complete stop, then really listen at Jesus' feet, so you can be refreshed in truth and rerouted in love. He is waiting especially for you.

Previous scriptural based alphabetical phrases in my most recent posts are: Invade me and Involve me; Kind words, Kind ways; and Lord of my life. Today's post is: Make me, Mold me, Move me.

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‍Make me, Mold me, Move me? Synopsis of Numbers 13; 14:1-11; 32-35

‍When God brought the Israelite nation out of Egypt, He planned to lead them into Canaan, a land flowing with milk and honey. Two young faith-filled men, Joshua and Caleb, scoped out the land and came back with a wonderful report. However, the Israelites were full of fear and dismay due to other men's negative reports about the presence "giants in the land." Because the people did not trust in the goodness of the Lord, He could not make, mold, or move them into the land of blessing. Their lack of faith caused God's people to wander in the desert for forty years; but even in their faithless grumbling,  the Lord provided for them there, both day and night.

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‍Make me, Mold me, Move me! Synopsis of Ruth 1:8-18; 2:1-3; 3:9-11; 4:13-15

However, in another time and place there was a Moabite woman named Ruth. She was a young widow who had lost her husband to sickness. She was left with her mother-in-law Naomi, whom she deeply loved. Eventually, Naomi, also a widow, decided that it was time to go back to Judah, her homeland. Naomi insisted that Ruth (and her sister) go back to their own family and their own gods, but Ruth was determined to follow Naomi. She spoke these devoted words to her mother-in-law, "Do not urge me to leave you or turn back from you; for where you go, I will go, and where you lodge, I will lodge. Your people will be my people, and your God, my God." Because Ruth's heart was willing, God could make, mold, and move her into a land and life of blessing. The Lord rewarded Ruth's walk of faith by providing her with a kinsman redeemer and husband named Boaz, and a son named Obed; and in time and history, she became the great grandmother of King David of Israel.

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‍‍When looking at these two contrasting stories, here are a few questions:

Do I let fear rule my actions or inactions?

Do I fully trust God in times of unknown?

What can I do practically to live by "faith in God" over "fear of what might happen"?

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I see the fear of the Israelites and then the faith of Ruth. Fear of potential dangers kept the Israelite people from moving forward into what was already beautifully laid out before them; whereas Ruth's faith propelled her to walk forward into an unknown territory with confidence. I want to be like Ruth, having blind faith in an all-seeing God, trusting in Him more than bowing to my fears, making bold declarations and stepping into them; then, as a result, receiving His beautiful blessing within His provident plan. Yes, I want to be like Ruth.

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So Lord, make me, mold me, and move me into Your will for my life.

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‍For where You go, I will go...

My most recent ABC posts have been: Kind words, Kind ways; Loving Lord of my Life; Make me, Mold me, Move me. Today's post is Name above all Names.

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‍Name above all Names?  Synopsis of Genesis 1:1-9.

‍In one point in time and history, all people spoke the same language. These people who lived in the land of Shinar, came together and said, "Come, let us build for ourselves a city and a tower whose top will reach heaven, and let us make for ourselves a name; lest we be scattered abroad over the face of the earth." God, seeing the intentions of their heart, could not allow them to succeed with their power-hungry plans. They wanted to be as strong and mighty as God Himself, but He alone bears the Name above all Names. Therefore, while the people were in the midst of building their high tower, He confused their language; no one could understand what was being said to one another. As a result, the building process stopped, and the people scattered across the face of the earth.

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‍Name above all Names! Synopsis of Philippians 2:6-11.

‍There is only One who bears the Name above all Names, and that is Jesus. Jesus is One with God; Jesus is God incarnate. Scripture says, Jesus, who, existing in the form of God did not consider equality with God a thing to be used for His own advantage. Instead He emptied Himself by assuming the form of a servant, taking on the likeness of men, and when He had come as a man in His external form, He humbled Himself by becoming obedient to the point of death--even death on a cross. For this reason God highly exalted Him and gave Him the name that is above every name, so that at the name of Jesus every knee will bow--of those who are in heaven and on earth--and every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.

A few questions to ponder:

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‍Am I trying to "make a name for myself" in some way?

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Do I wrestle with pride or control in relationships or agendas?

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What can I do in a practical way to help me turn my heart towards the Lord in these areas?

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‍When looking at these two stories, I see one people group, unified for the purpose of making themselves great and powerful, with no regard of God at all. As a result, there was both confusion and dispersion. And then. there is Jesus, King of kings, Lord of Lords, coming to earth as a bond-slave, and giving up His own life by dying on a cross for the sins of all people... for the purpose of unifying us to him as well as to others. Scripture implores, Make your own attitude like that of Christ Jesus (Phil. 2:5).

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Let each one of us, TODAY, bend our knee to the Name above all Names. And then, let each one of us, TODAY, rise up and live like Jesus did. We are here not to make a name for ourselves, but to magnify his name by the things we say and do.

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Not to us, O Lord, not to us, but to Your name be the glory, because of your steadfast love and your faithfulness! Psalm 115:1

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The previous few ABC posts are as follows: Lord of my Life; Make Me, Mold Me, Move Me; and Name above all Names. Today, it's Offer help Often.

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Offer help Often? Synopsis of Luke 10:25-32.

‍Jesus spoke a parable to a certain lawyer in order to explain the statement, Love your neighbor as yourself. The parable unfolds: A man was traveling from Jerusalem to Jericho when robbers attacked him, leaving him beaten, stripped, and half dead. A short while later, a priest came upon the dying man, observed him, and chose to walk to the other side of the road. Likewise, another religious man, a Levite, came upon the wounded traveler and he, too, deliberately passed to the other side of the road. Neither of these men chose to offer help at all.

Offer help Often! Synopsis of Luke 10:25-37.

‍However, a Samaratin came upon the beaten man. When he saw him, he bandaged his wounds, pouring his oil and wine on them. He then put him on his donkey and took him to a nearby inn. The whole day the Samaritan offered help often to the wounded traveler. From this point forward, he made sure all the suffering man's needs would be met, and was willing to pay these expenses. The Samaritan portrayed a beautiful picture of what it means to love your neighbor as yourself.

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What a contrast in this one parable. And how convicting it is! When I look at the merciless inaction of the priest and the Levite, both "righteous" individuals, I have to ask myself:

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Am I, in any way, disregarding someone in need?

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Am I afraid to get my hands dirty?

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Am I too busy to offer help?

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There are people on the "roadside of life" who are wounded and broken. There are people who are crushed in spirit. There are people who are suffering and in need. These people are waiting for someone, a close friend or even a distant stranger, to stop and touch them boldly and mercifully and abundantly. Let's be that person.

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‍Lord, please make me like this Samaritan, full of mercy, full of compassion... full of action. Show me who it is You want me to touch with Your love, and give me the ability, the energy, and the obedience to follow through. I want to offer help often. I want to love my neighbor. Amen

My three previous ABC posts are: Make me, Mold me, Move me; Name above all Names; and Offer help Often. The next phrase is: Prince of Peace, Please Come.

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‍Prince of Peace, Please Come? Synopsis of John 8:39-42, 56-59.

‍During Jesus' day, the leading scribes and Pharisees could not accept Jesus as the Son of God. They considered their "father" to be Abraham and they strictly followed the rules and regulations from long ago. These religious men did not understand that Jesus was the fulfillment of the law, as well as the new law- full of freedom, peace, and joy! Jesus told these Jews, "Abraham rejoiced to see my day, and he saw and was glad…Truly, truly, I say to you, before Abraham was born, I am." When Jesus claimed to be greater than Abraham, and equal to God, they became enraged. Jesus, the Prince of Peace, had come and He was standing directly in front of them; but sadly, these men did not recognize Him.

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‍Prince of Peace, Please Come! Synopsis of Daniel 3:8-30.

‍However, there were three other men, many hundreds of years prior, that had an unshakable faith in their God. At this point in history, the Israelites had been taken into captivity. All the people were commanded to bow down before a giant golden statue erected by King Nebuchadnezzar. When Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego refused, the king ordered them to be bound and thrown into a fiery furnace. The courageous young men said, "The God we serve is able to save us from it, and he will rescue us from your hand, O King. But even if He does not, we want you to know, O king, that we will not serve your gods or worship the image of gold you have set up." While the young men were in the midst of the fire, the king saw and spoke with amazement, "Weren't there three men that we tied up and threw into the fire?…Look! I see four men walking around in the fire, unbound and unharmed, and the fourth looks like a son of the gods." Most certainly, the Prince of Peace had come.

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When I look at these two stories side by side, here are few questions:

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Do I believe God is with me, even in (especially in) difficult times?

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Do I believe God will not leave me, no matter how hard things get?

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What are practical ways that I can remind myself of the peaceful presence of God?

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The Jewish scribes and Pharisees in the passage above simply could not and did not believe Jesus to be the Messiah. They closed their ears to His words and their eyes to His works. Therefore, His presence meant nothing. However, Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego, although they could not see God, they believed He existed as Savior. Their unshakeable faith gave them courage to step into the fire. There, they recognized the Prince of Peace.

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Are you in the midst of a "fiery furnace" right now? Are there flames of anxiety, fear, sadness, or disappointment waving about?  Believe He is with you. Know that He cares for you. What God did physically for these three faithful men long ago, He will do for your heart and soul today. Call on your Prince of Peace and He will come. Recognize Him, trust Him, walk with Him, even in the midst of the fire.

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‍Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid. John 14:27

My past three ABC posts include: Name above all Names, Offer help Often, and Prince of Peace Please Come. Today, it's Quiet my Questioning heart.

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Quiet my Questioning heart? Synopsis Exodus 15:23-16:1-17.

‍Long ago, Moses led the Israelite nation out of slavery from Egypt. They survived the ten plagues and made a grand exit, straight through the parted Red Sea. These people saw and experienced God's powerful work on their behalf. Three days into their new freedom journey, however, they began to grumble due to lack of water. When they came to Marah, they could not drink its water because it was bitter…So the people grumbled against Moses, saying, "What are we to drink?" Likewise, two weeks later, they grumbled again, "If only we had died by the Lord's hand in Egypt! There we sat around pots of meat and ate all the food we wanted, but you (Moses) have brought us out into this desert to starve this entire assembly to death." The Israelite nation could not trust the faithfulness of God due to their unquieted questioning hearts. In spite of their grumbling, the Lord provided food and water daily for them during the disciplining forty years in the desert.

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Quiet my Questioning heart! Synopsis of Genesis 37, 39, 50:20.

‍If only these Israelites had remembered the story of their great ancestor Joseph. As a young man, he was sold into slavery by his jealous brothers; then later, once in Egypt, he was thrown into prison for a crime he did not commit. For a decade, he had reason to cry out often, "Lord, quiet my questioning heart!" In His time and in His way, God did send His peace and provision as Joseph continued to put his trust in the Lord's direction. He eventually was released from prison and rose to the position of second in command in Egypt. Joseph continued to walk with the Lord; he even gave forgiveness to his brothers, saying to them, "You intended to harm me, but God intended it for good to accomplish now what is being done…".

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When I look at these two stories, here are a few questions:

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Do I tend to grumble and complain when things don't go my way?

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Do I trust God with ALL my heart in times of uncertainty?

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What practical ways can I trust him more in a difficult situation or unknown path?

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In these stories, I see both parties questioning God. Really, I think God is fine with our questions. Even Jesus questioned His Father on the cross. What God is after is the attitude of our hearts. Do the questions we raise to Him come from a place of angry mistrust, or are they a plea for His help in the midst of our diverse circumstances? He must discipline the former, but He honors the latter. Let's bring our BIG questions to the Lord, and ask Him to quiet us in whatever answer He chooses to give, all the while remembering, He is ALWAYS working for our ultimate good.

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Will you trust Him?

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‍Out of the depths I cry to You, O Lord; O Lord hear my voice. Let your ears be attentive to my cry for mercy…I wait for the Lord, my soul waits, and in His word I put my hope. Psalm 130:1-2, 5

The previous few ABC posts are entitled: Offer Help Often, Prince of Peace Please Come, and Quiet my Questioning Heart. Today, it's Rest with Him, Run with Him.

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‍Rest with Him, Run with Him? Synopsis of 1 Samuel 18:5-16, 19:9-18.

Long ago, a man named Saul became the appointed king of Israel. The people were proud of King Saul, for he was taller than any of his people from his shoulders upward (I Samuel 10:23). The Israelites wanted Saul to represent strength and power to all the other nations. King Saul did lead mightily for a time but his heart did not rest nor run with the Lord. As a matter of fact, Saul was driven by jealousy and anger because of a young shepherd boy named David who had killed the Philistine giant. The Israelites began to praise David's name over that of Saul's, which was infuriating to him. Many times Saul tried to kill David with his own spear, causing David to flee from his presence. Instead of pursuing God, King Saul ran after David; because of this misdirected ambition, his soul never found rest.

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‍Rest with Him Run with Him! Synopsis of Psalm 23, 18:28-36.

‍David, on the other hand, both rested and ran with the Lord. As a young shepherd boy, he learned how to be quiet as he watched over the sheep, and also, he learned how to fight as he protected them from predators. This trust and training is what gave him the confidence to face and then slay Goliath. In time and by God's appointment, David became king over Israel. Although his reign was not flawless, his life was marked by receiving forgiveness and then living in obedience to his God. Because of these qualities, God called David "a man after His own heart." David knew how to both rest and run with the Lord.

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When looking at the two men, I have to ask myself:

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What controls my thoughts, and then possibly my actions?

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Do I desire "rest" or do I just want to "run" on my own emotions and actions?

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What are practical ways that I can implement "resting with the Lord" each day?

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It is safe to say that if you're not resting with the Lord, then your soul is ...restless. Saul was fitful because his mind was full of jealousy; this emotion drove his actions. But David, on the other hand, knew how to be still before the Lord. In this quiet space, he poured out his heart and he knew he was heard.  We see much of his raw emotion and his absolute trust throughout the pages of the psalms. After David poured out, God was able to pour in. Then, and only then, was David ready for battle.

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Let's learn how "to be" and how "not to be" from these two men.  Choose to be still and bring all your hurts and all your desires before the Lord. Daily rest with Him, so that you can daily run with Him.

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‍For thus the Lord God, the Holy One of Israel, has said, "In repentance and rest you will be saved, in quietness and trust is your strength." But you were not willing. Isaiah 30:15

My previous three ABC posts are entitled: Prince of Peace Please Come, Quiet my Questioning Heart, and Rest with Him, Run with Him. Today, it is Stand Steady in His Strength.

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Stand Steady in His Strength?  Matthew 14:22-33.

‍Jesus' disciples were on a boat in the midst of a fierce storm. Late into the night, they saw a ghost-like figure walking on the water with the waves swirling all around him. Jesus called out, "Take courage, it is I; do not be afraid." Then Peter confidently called to Him, "Lord, if it is You, command me to come to You on the water." So the Lord called him, and Peter stepped out of the boat onto the water with his eyes fixed on Jesus. But as he was stepping forward, he started panicking because of the wind and the waves; consequently, he began to sink. He was no longer standing steady in the strength of the Lord. Jesus, however, held out His hand to Peter, and once they stepped into the boat, the wind and the waves became calm.

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‍Stand Steady in His Strength! Synopsis of Mark 2:1-13.

‍On another occasion, Jesus was teaching a crowd of people in a house in Capernaum. Four men were carrying their paralyzed friend on a mat towards the house with intentions of getting close to Jesus for healing. The room was packed, so they climbed to the roof, pulled it apart, and then lowered their sick friend down into the room directly in front of Jesus. Jesus spoke these words to the paralytic, "My son, your sins are forgiven…I say to you, rise, take up your pallet and go home." The paralytic obeyed Jesus. This healed man was now able to stand in the strength that the Lord had given him. He and all the people in the house were amazed at Jesus' wonderful work.

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In these two passages, here are a few questions:

In the midst of a trial, where is my focus?

Am I willing to obey the Lord when he says "rise", or am I somehow more comfortable in my misery?

What are some practical ways that I can keep my eyes fixed on Christ?

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In these passages, I see one man sinking and one man rising. Peter, who often wrestled with over-confidence, realized he was "in over his head." When he took his eyes off of Jesus, he momentarily thought it was up to him to keep himself afloat. (Thankfully, he cried out, "Lord, save me!") On the other hand, the paralytic, who knew he could do nothing in his own power, obeyed Jesus' command, rose to his feet, and then walked home with confident joy.

How often we, in our flesh, become unstable. We can either sink down into a pit or climb up onto a pedestal. Those of us who tend to have a self-PIT-y mindset say things like: "I'm a failure", "I don't measure up", "Nobody loves me"; they blame and shame themselves. On the other hand, those who tend to have a man-made "pedestal" mindset say things like: "I'm in control", "I'm always right", "I don't need anybody"; they blame and shame others. These mindsets, although very different from each other, both have self at the core. Neither pit nor pedestal will ever provide a firm foundation for standing.

But then, there is a not-of-the-flesh-power that we as Christians inherit through faith. Let's remember, His Spirit is alive in us! When we realize, like the paralytic, that we can do nothing in and of our own strength, and when we decide, like Peter (at first), to fix our eyes only on Jesus, then and only then, can we stand steady in His strength. His power, not our own, makes our feet firm and our foundation solid so that we can do all we were created to do, for His glory.

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Ask the Almighty One to pull you out of your pit before you get stuck there, or ask the Exalted One to help you to step down from your pedestal before you fall. Allow Him to set your feet upon the solid rock so that you can do exceedingly abundantly beyond all that you ask or think according to the power that works within you. (Eph. 3:20) It's how Peter walked on water; it's how the paralytic skipped home; and it's how you can live your life, every day.

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‍He sent from on high, He took me; He drew me out of may waters… He brought me forth also into a broad place… for by Him I can run upon a troop, and by my God I can leap over a wall. (Ps. 18:16, 19,29)

The three previous ABC posts I have written are: Quiet my Questioning Heart, Rest with Him-Run with Him, and Stand Steady in His Strength. Today's post is: Totally Trust the Truth.

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Totally Trust the Truth? Synopsis of 2 Chronicles 15:1-5; 16:1-9; 12.

Long ago, King Asa ruled over the nation of Judah. For most of his reign, he did good and right in the sight of the Lord. He removed foreign altars and high places from the land. As a result, God's blessing of peace was on the nation during this time. However, in the 36th year of Asa's reign, Baasha, King of Israel, planned an attack against Judah. For some reason, instead of turning to the Lord first to seek help, King Asa sought to make an alliance with an earthly king, Ben-hadad of Aram. Asa chose not to trust the truth that God was the Almighty One who could and would fight for His people. As a result of this decision, wars began and continued for the duration of Asa's reign.

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‍Totally Trust the Truth! Synopsis of 2 Chronicles 20:1-28.

‍After Asa died, his son Jehoshaphat became the king of Judah. King Jehoshaphat loved the Lord and sought to keep His commandments. At one point in his reign, enemies from all sides were coming upon Judah. King Jehoshaphat was frightened by these strong armies, so he turned his attention to seek the Lord. He brought the people of Judah together in order to fast and pray. God spoke to them through a prophet, "You need not fight this battle, stand and see the salvation of the Lord on your behalf." Instead of fighting, God told the people to worship Him with praise through music and song; they were to totally trust the truth that God would deliver them from the enemies. The people obeyed, and God's hand was victorious on the battlefield on their behalf.

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When I look at King Asa and King Jehoshaphat in the midst of their battle decisions, here are a few questions:

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Do I tend to try to figure things out by myself before I seek the Lord for help?

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Who am I asking for advice in a confusing situation? Are they wise?

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What practical way can I implement "seeking the Lord first" in heated situations? (Notice, the people of Judah sang worship songs!)

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Why is it that we tend to first exhaust all our human resources during crisis mode before we remember to turn to the Lord and seek His help? We must remember, He is the One who is in control; He is the One who has all the answers; He is the One who can defeat anything that we are up against! Because of these truths, HE IS THE ONE to turn to!

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I want to seek Him first!

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‍Lord, please help me turn to You and totally trust the truth of Your word. Give me songs in my heart, songs of praise and adoration, songs of hope and deliverance. And as I sing, I will watch expectantly with full assurance that You are fighting for me as I am trusting in You. Amen

My previous three ABC posts are: Rest with Him Run with Him, Stand Steady in His Strength, and Totally Trust the Truth. Today's post is: Understand His Unfailing Love.

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‍Understand His Unfailing Love? Synopsis of John 19:1-16.

‍Pontius Pilate was the Roman governor during Jesus' ministry. The Jewish chief priests went to Pilate in order to get his permission to crucify Jesus. Pilate stood face to face with Jesus and was confused by His silent strength and unwavering mindset. In the midst of the limited but powerful conversation, Pilate asked Jesus, "What is truth?" This unresolved internal conflict led Pilate to the persuaded external decision of turning Jesus over to the Jews to be crucified. Sadly, Pontius Pilate never understood the unfailing love of Jesus Christ.

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‍Understand His Unfailing Love! Synopsis of John 3:1-16; 7:50-52; 19:39-40.

There was another man named Nicodemus who also stood face to face with Jesus. One night, during Jesus' earlier years of ministry, Nicodemus asked the Teacher (Jesus) several difficult questions. As he was listening intently to His answers he became confused, but he did not walk away. Instead, Jesus' inviting words of being born of the Spirit captivated Nicodemus' heart. From this middle-of-the night encounter with the great Teacher, Nicodemus began to understand the unfailing love of God, and he longed to know more of this beautiful Truth. Consequently, at the time of Jesus' trial, Nicodemus boldly defended Jesus before his own Jewish council; he was no longer afraid to be a Christ-follower. And after Jesus was crucified, Nicodemus loyally helped bury His body.

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When looking at these two men, here are a few questions:

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Do I tend to give into peer pressure or do I make a stand when it comes to who Jesus is?

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Do I truly understand God's love for me?

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Do I believe that God's word is His love letter to me?

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Both men in the passages above asked questions. Pontius Pilate was pulled toward the truth when listening to Jesus, but then, he was wishy-washy and stepped away. Nicodemus, on the other hand, decided to keep walking persistently forward. He asked one question at a time and gleaned from Jesus' thought-provoking words. Jesus honored Nicodemus' searching heart by giving him insight into the truth of who He is: the One who will give His life as a ransom for many.

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Remember, Jesus literally died to give you His unfailing love. Today, right now, He longs to be gracious to you, He waits on high to have compassion on you. (Isaiah 30:18). Don't back away from His words of truth; don't give into the pressure of the world. Instead, be persistent with your questions, and He will be faithful with His answers. Make it your ambition to understand His unfailing love and, I promise you, you will not be disappointed.

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‍"Let him who boasts, boast of this, that he understands and knows Me, that I am the Lord who exercises lovingkindness, justice, and righteousness on the earth; for I delight in these things," declares the Lord. (Jeremiah 9:24)The eyes of the Lord move to and fro throughout the earth that He may strongly support those whose heart is completely His.  (2 Chronicles 16:9)

My three previous ABC posts are entitled: Stand Steady in His Strength, Totally Trust the Truth, and Understand His Unfailing Love. Today's post is: Victory Belongs to His Valiant Warrior.

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‍Victory Belongs to His Valiant Warrior? Synopsis of Judges 13-16.

‍Long ago there was a man named Samson who was given  rare and extreme physical strength. God intended Samson to use this mighty power to begin deliverance from the hand of the Philistines who had been oppressing the Israelites for 40 years. Samson did indeed kill many Philistines with his matchless strength, but his weakness, the desire of foreign women, kept him from being known as a valiant warrior for his people. As a matter of fact, Samson is most remembered for his tragic downfall which came through a woman named Delilah. Delilah betrayed Samson by telling his enemies the secret of his strength; as a result, his valiant victories as a warrior were no longer his to obtain...until one last redemptive act.

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‍Victory Belongs to His Valiant Warrior! Synopsis of Judges 6, 7.

Another man named Gideon was also living during an oppressive time. The Israelites lived in constant dread of the Midianites' plunderous attacks. Gideon was so frightened by this raging army that he would thresh wheat in a wine press so that he would not be seen by them. Ironically, while Gideon was hiding in this place, the angel of the Lord approached Gideon and said, "The Lord is with you, O valiant warrior." God saw something in Gideon that Gideon himself was not yet aware of: courage. Gideon chose to trust God's perspective of him. This inexperienced young man humbly obeyed the Lord's instruction concerning leadership and battle strategy; as a result, Gideon soundly defeated the vast Midianite army with only 300 men. God's strength prevailed and victory belonged to His valiant warrior, Gideon.

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‍When looking at Samson and Gideon, here are a few questions:

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What are my greatest strengths? and weaknesses?

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Do I realize that both my strengths and weaknesses can be used to bring God glory?

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What is a way I can use my unique gift for the Lord today?

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In the above passages, I see a paradox. Samson, full of strength and might, was made powerless by just one woman. Gideon, however, who was the least in his tribe and the youngest in his family, defeated a vast army of trained soldiers. Samson lost touch with his God-given gift and began using it for his own desires; in contrast, Gideon tapped into his "weakness" and kept the Lord as his Commander, trusting him to do great things.

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Each one of us has been blessed uniquely. Let's seek to use our gifts for His glory only. He wants to do great things through you and me, but our gifts and abilities are mere avenues of revealing God's glory to people. Samson missed the point and was humbled; Gideon embraced the truth and was exalted. Fully trust, humbly obey, and then confidently march into your battle. (Also realize you will always have an enemy that fights against the progress of His glory). Victory belongs to HIS Valiant Warrior!

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‍For who is God, but the Lord? And who is a rock, except our God? The God who girds me with strength, and makes my way blameless? He makes my feet like hinds' feet, and sets me up on my high places. He trains my hands for battle, so that my arms can bend a bow of bronze. Ps 18:31-34

The three previous ABC posts are entitled: Totally Trust the Truth, Understand His Unfailing Love, and Victory belongs to His Valiant Warriors. Today is: Walk Wisely, Worship Well.

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Walk Wisely, Worship Well? Synopsis of I Kings 3:5-15, 10:23-29, 11:1-7, 11.

‍After the death of King David, his son Solomon reigned over Israel. David had emphatically charged his son to seek the Lord and follow Him with his whole heart. Solomon did intend to reign with the Lord's wisdom. In fact, instead of asking for more riches and honor, Solomon asked the Lord for an understanding heart to judge the people and discern between good and evil. God blessed this selfless request, and from this heart of wisdom Solomon wrote many of the Proverbs. He also built God's magnificent temple in Jerusalem. If only King Solomon could have walked as wisely as his Proverbs taught and worshipped well in the temple he built. Sadly, Solomon strayed when he married numerous foreign wives who pulled his heart away from the one true God.The end of Solomon's reign was nothing like the beginning; because of his waywardness, the kingdom of Israel was ripped apart.

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‍Walk Wisely, Worship Well! Synopsis of John 1:19-27, 3:22-26, Matt. 14:1-12.

‍Hundreds of years later, a man named John entered Israel's scene. He was appointed from birth for one purpose: his sole ambition was to point people toward the Messiah, Son of the living God. When the people of Jerusalem asked him who he was, he answered, "I am the voice of the one calling in the desert, 'Make straight the way for the Lord.'" All the days of his abbreviated life, John proclaimed Jesus as the One who came to take away the sins of the world. John the Baptist walked wisely and worshipped well. Although John was beheaded for his strong faith in Christ, his divine message of repentance still lives today.

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When looking at these two men and their life path, here are a few questions:

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Is there something or someone in my life that might be pulling me away from walking wisely and worshipping well?

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Is God's word directing my steps?

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When I ask for wisdom, do I genuinely accept it by obeying the voice of the Lord?

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Solomon: a rich ruler like the world had never known. John: a lowly man who wore camel skins and ate locust and honey. What a contrast. Although their physical circumstances were different, both men's heart conditions started out the same. Solomon and John were fully committed to the Lord. However, Solomon gradually strayed while John remained steadfast.

The world's path and the Lord's path are quite different. We get to choose our path. If you want to walk with the Lord, ask Him to help you take note of any subtle pull that's misleading you He knows we are prone to wander and he will be there ready to offer you his helping hand. Although John did not gain the riches and honor this world has to offer, he did gain these words from Jesus the God-man, "I say to you, among those born of women, there is no one greater than John." (Luke 7:28) And also, after John's last breath on earth he gained all the riches of eternal life. On the other hand, at Solomon's end, he was left wanting.

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Let's challenge ourselves every morning to live for the One who created us and loves us. Let's walk wisely and worship well. For what does it profit a man to gain the whole world, and forfeit his soul? Mark 8:36

My previous ABC posts are entitled: Understand His Unfailing Love, Victory Belongs to His Valiant Warrior, and Walk Wisely, Worship Well. Today's post is: eXtra portion of His eXcellent Spirit.

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eXtra portion of His eXcellent Spirit? Synopsis of Matthew 12:38-34.

‍The greatest Teacher of all time used the simple technique of using common word pictures to illustrate profound truths. For example, on one occasion when Jesus was talking to the Pharisees, He told a story of a particular man's heart. This man had "cleaned up his act", and Jesus compared this decision to cleaning a house. He was telling the Pharisees that even though the house had been swept clean of filth, it needed to be filled with something else, otherwise the same evil spirit would end up coming back with seven more wicked than itself, and live there; and the last state of that man would be worse than the first. Sadly, although His eXcellent Spirit was offered to the Pharisees to possess "full homes", they instead chose "void-of-truth houses" to represent their hearts.

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‍eXtra portion of His eXcellent Spirit! Synopsis of 2 Kings 2:1-14.

‍On the other hand, there once lived a man named Elisha.   God appointed him as a prophet to follow his mentor Elijah, who had done great and mighty things through the Lord's powerful Spirit for 25 years. Elijah asked Elisha, "Tell me what I can do for you before I am taken from you." Elijah replied, "Let me inherit a double portion of your spirit"… And then, as they were walking along and talking together suddenly a chariot of fire and horses of fire appeared and separated the two of them, and Elijah went up to leave in a whirlwind. Afterwards, Elisha picked up Elijah's cloak; and indeed, he did inherit an eXtra portion of His eXcellent Spirit. God's power worked through Elisha as he prophesied and performed miracles in Israel for over 50 years.

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When looking at these two biblical passages, here are a few questions:

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Do I realize that the HOLY Spirit lives in me through faith in Christ?

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Am I operating from the Spirit or from the flesh concerning both my interactions and decisions?

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What are some practical ways that I can operate from the powerful Spirit that abides in me? (Hint: "Call on Christ", "Helper please Help", "Rest with Him, Run with Him").

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It's easy to legalistically "clean house" and "do the right thing," but remember, if it's void of love, it means nothing (see 1 Cor. 13). God's Spirit is love. My deepest heart's longing is to be filled with His Spirit. Allow His love to pour in and take over! In tough situations, ask for an eXtra portion of His eXcellent Spirit! Then expect to be filled to overflowing with His love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self control. Nothing compares to this choice life-style! It is completely fulfilling and eternally gratifying!

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"Remind me O God, You are what I want! Please make Yourself at home in my heart.  Fill me to overflowing. I want Your ways; I want to give You to others. Thank You for Your promise: You give your Spirit without measure." John 3:34

My previous ABC posts are: Victory belongs to His Valiant Warrior, Walk Wisely, Worship Well, and eXtra portion of His eXcellent Spirit. Today's post is: Your Savior Yearns for You.

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Your Savior Yearns for You? Synopsis of 2 Corinthians 11:3.

‍From the beginning of time, there has been an enemy that would desire nothing more than to entice you to believe that he is your savior. Some of his biblical titles are: serpent, deceiver, thief, accuser, and Satan. He is also referred to as a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour (1 Peter 5:8). This enemy yearns for you, and will go to great measures to lure you away from the truth of God's love. His personal pre-meditated traps that he uses in this world come in the form of lust of the flesh, lust of the eyes, and the pride of one's lifestyle(I John 2:16). Paul writes to his fellow believers, "But I am afraid that just as Eve was led astray by the serpent's cunning, your minds may somehow be led astray from your sincere and pure devotion to Christ"  (2 Cor. 11:3. Your flesh is weak, and his pull is strong, BUT…

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Your Savior Yearns for You! Synopsis of John 15:13.

‍From the beginning of time, there has been a true Savior that would desire nothing more than to lure you into His unfailing love. Some of His biblical titles are: Good Shepherd, Prince of Peace, Teacher, Healer, and Comforter. He also calls Himself a Friend. He wants to walk by your side as your wise companion each and every day, even into eternity. He was willing to die a sinner's death in your place in order to make this happen. Greater love has no one than this, that one lay down his life for his friends (John 25:13). Your flesh is weak, His pull is stronger. How sweet it is to be enveloped in His everlasting arms.

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When looking at the above comparison, here are a few questions:

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Do I believe God loves me?

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How do I sometimes fall prey to the enemy's deceptions?

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What are some of my favorite Names of God? Why?

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The contrast between one "savior" and the other Savior is immense. It's the difference between darkness and light, confusion and peace, wrestling and rest. Realize there is a war going on over your heart and mind, and then hear this truth: Your Savior yearns for YOU! He is calling you by name right now. He has already gone to battle for you, and given HIS LIFE on your behalf. Your enemy, on the other hand, has no genuine interest in you whatsoever. Everything he has to offer--power, prestige, wealth, security--it's all a sham. Ah, what a triumph for the people of God to learn the difference between the Deceiver and the Devoted One.

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Hear these words from your true Savior and then may your soul find rest in Him alone:

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‍Do not fear, for I have called you by name, you are mine. Isaiah 43:1

The previous ABC posts are entitled: Walk Wisely, Worship Well, eXtra Portion of His eXcellent Spirit, and Your Savior Yearns for You. And today's final ABC post is Zealous for His Kingdom Zion.

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‍Zealous for His Kingdom Zion? Synopsis of Esther 3:1-15, 7:3-10.

The term "Zion" is another name for the city of Jerusalem, but it can also refer to the entire people of Israel (and then to all of God's people).  Long ago, Haman the Agagite hated the Jewish people simply because Mordecai, a certain Jew, would not bow to him at the king's gate. This one act of defiance by Mordecai infuriated Haman, so he sought revenge. With the king's permission, he used his anger to devise a wicked plan that would not only kill Mordecai, but would also bring about the complete annihilation of the Jewish people. He was zealous to destroy God's kingdom. But as always, God's loving power is greater than man's evil schemes. God purposefully placed Queen Esther, also a Jew, for such a time as this to intervene and prohibit Haman from killing the Jewish people. So "Zion" lives on; but Haman, on the other hand, was hung from the very gallows he intended for Mordecai.

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‍Zealous for His Kingdom Zion! Synopsis of Isaiah 62:1-7.

‍On the other hand, there was a prophet of old who spoke God's word to His people. He declared with fervor, "For Zion's sake I will not keep silent, for Jerusalem's sake I will not remain quiet" (Isaiah 62:1). When Isaiah spoke, he was filled with the Spirit of God; he accurately portrayed God's intentions towards His people, both in judgment and redemption. He spoke of the future Messiah. Through Isaiah, God promised that the suffering Zion (and all God's people to this day) would inherit new names such as these: Holy People, the Redeemed of the Lord, and Sought After (Isaiah 62:12). These new names that Isaiah prophesied about belong to any and all who claim Jesus Christ as their Lord and Savior. Jesus Himself made this possible by His sacrificial death on the cross.

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When looking at these two men, here are a few questions:

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Who am I today, the self-seeking-Haman, or the Christ-proclaiming-Isaiah?

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Who, in my world, doesn't know the Lord or needs encouragement in their faith walk?

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Am I zealous for others to know the Lord?

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In the contrasting passages, we see Haman plotting destruction, while Isaiah was preaching salvation. Haman was promoting hatred of a people group, while Isaiah was promoting the love of God. Haman died an unwilling but deserving death "on a tree"; Isaiah prophesied about Jesus, who died a willingly but undeserving death "on a tree."

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I must make a choice of where I put my passion, where I spend my time, how I spend my energy, and then live with either the consequence or the blessing of my choices.

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‍O God, first I want to thank You for Your zeal for me! YOU did not keep silent. Heaven opened and Jesus came. You gave Your life so that I could be called "Holy, Redeemed, Sought After." Thank You! Now I ask that Your zealous love would consume me. Help me to put my self agenda down, and pick Your beautiful will up. Fill me with your truth; please, I want to be Your mouthpiece. Amen.