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Archive for April, 2011

Short-Story Saturday

Posted in intentional living, Let's Get Real, United in Christ, tagged , , , , , on April 30, 2011 | 4 Comments »

Somehow I’ve accumulated a bit of short stories sitting on my computer. I hate wasted text, so, I decided to try something new and fun. But you know me, I hate being boxed in, which means, I can’t guarantee a story every Saturday, but as I’ve got them (or at times, as they’re sent) I’ll post them. If you’ve got a story or excerpt you’d like to share, send it to me via email at jenniferaslattery(at)gmail(dot)com. You’ve always wanted to write but aren’t sure how to get started? Try your hand and send it my way!

Moses Answers the Call (taken from Exodus 2-3)

Moses rolled his mat and stuffed it in his bag along with the rest of his belongings. The aroma of roasted grain filled the air, drawing him to a fire centered in their camp where Zipporah, his wife sat preparing his morning meal. Her sisters chattered beside her, one grinding grain, another pressing olives, still another weaving strong goat-hair thread into torn and thread-bare tent panels.

                Footsteps sounded behind him and he turned to see Jethro, his father-in-law, approaching. His stiff smile only deepened the sadness in his chestnut eyes. “So you have made up your mind? There is nothing I can say to sway you?”

                Moses sighed and gripped his bag tighter. How he longed to heed Jethro’s words of warning, but God left no room for doubt. “I must do as God commands.”

                “And if the Egyptians kills you?” His gaze drifted toward his daughters gathered a few paces away before returning to Moses.

                Moses straightened and lifted his chin. “They won’t. I told you of the signs God showed me. The flaming bush that never burned up. My staff which turned to a snake. My hand leprous and as white as the clouds drifting above us, made healthy by a mere dipping it into my cloak.”

                “But why now? After they’ve been enslaved for so very long?”

                Moses shook his head. “He did not tell me why, and I cannot worry about that which I do not understand. I must act upon what I know.”

                “And what is that?”

                Moses lifted his gaze toward the distant hills, a gentle breeze stirring through his thick, gray hair. “I know that God has heard the cries of his people and has deemed it time to act. I know that He will be their mighty deliverer. I know Aaron, my brother whom I thought I would never see again, is on his way to meet me even now.” He inhaled, then exhaled slowly, hoping to quiet the churning in his stomach. “I know it will not be easy—that the Pharaoh’s heart will grow hard again and again and I fear that my people, the people I come to help, will hate me.”

                “Yet still you go.”

                Moses nodded. “Yet still I go, for now that I have experienced God’s presence for myself, now that I have heard His voice, I cannot walk away. His presence is better than life itself.”

                Soft footsteps approached and Moses glanced up to see Zipporah approach with a bundle of cloth. “Better than life with me, my lord?” Unshed tears glistened in her eyes.

                Moses held her gaze, the very breath stolen from him. A tear slid down her cheek and he brushed it away. “Do not cry, my beautiful wife. I will return. Once Pharaoh lets the people go, and we begin our journey, I will send for you. I will bring you with me to the Promised Land.”

                Zipporah dipped her head and Moses knew the emotions that warred inside her, because they raged in him as well. Two days ago, God was nothing more than a story told to him as a child. And now, he risked everything to follow. The very thought turned his stomach, but below the fear simmered something more—hope.

                He cupped Zipporah’s chin and lifted her face until her eyes met his. “At night, when you lie upon your mat, gazing at the stars, think of the Promised Land I spoke of. A land with fragrant flowers growing upon the meadows. A land flowing with milk and honey.”

                Zipporah smiled. “I knew God had plans for you. All these years as you’ve served my father so faithfully, tending his sheep night after night, I knew you were destined for more, my prince of Egypt.”

                Moses chuckled. “Prince of Egypt indeed. Such a title is no longer important to me, my sweet Zipporah. Now I wish more than anything to be a servant of the living God.”

                “And so you will be. Go with the strength God provides, and may He protect your every step.”

Luke 9:23  Then He (Jesus) said to them all: “Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross daily and follow me. (NIV)

When we read the biblical accounts, often we fail to realize these were real people with real struggles. They felt the same emotions you and I face. Although I’ve “fleshed out” the story provided in Exodus, adding details as I see they may have happened, I imagine leaving his wife, father-in-law and the predictable life he knew in Midian to confront the powerful, slave-driving Pharaoh wasn’t easy. Obedience rarely is. But I believe Moses’ obedience was motivated by two things: his love for God and his hope in something better–the Promised Land.

Similarly, as Christians our obedience is motivated by two things: our love for God who, while we were still sinners, died for us; and our hope in something better–Heaven, the eternal promised land. For we fix our eyes not on what is seen but on what is unseen, our glorious Savior and His promise of eternity.

Happy Saturday!

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The Words We Speak

Posted in intentional living, Let's Get Real, United in Christ, tagged , , on April 29, 2011 | 5 Comments »

When we lived in California, we had a friend who always spoke slowly, as if calculating every word. Although the impatient side of me at times grew frustrated, I often wondered how many arguments, embarrassments and tense situations I’d avoid if I only took the time to think before I spoke. What’s more, how much sound knowledge would I gain if I took the time to listen–not smile and nod while my mind jumped to my next point–but truly listen, when others spoke. Listening is more than audible reception. It involves a genuine concern for others and a desire to understand not only the words they present but their intended meaning as well. And often, it involves holding our tongue.

According to the Bible, when I speak without thinking, I’m a fool inviting trouble. And perhaps, at times, even worse–a slicing sword inflicting wounds on another.

James 1:19 tells us, Understanding this, my dear brothers and sisters: You must all be quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to become angry. (NIV)

A few months ago, after receiving very unfortunate news, I went to the store in a daze. You’ve probably been there once or twice–when your emotions are raw and your mind drifts elsewhere yet you attempt to continue with your day? After unloading my groceries, I absent mindedly returned my cart to the store and parked it outside–in front of the doors. Not the most considerate thing I could have done, I admit. And an approaching shopper told me so, in no uncertain terms.

Needless to say, as the reality of what she said settled into my fog-filled head, I was more than a little embarrassed by my actions. Truly, it wouldn’t have been difficult move my cart sideways a smudge, or even take it all the way into the store, but as I pushed it up the sludge-filled lot, honestly, it didn’t even occur to me. My mind was on the news I’d received and the friend the news involved, not the shopping cart in my grip.

But this event did make think–of all the times when I’ve reacted similar. Frowning at the woman who snaps at someone in the line ahead of me, not knowing she lost her job the day before. Honking at a motorist who cuts me off, not realizing she’s late for work after dealing with a sick child, again, and fears losing her job. Jumping to conclusions when my husband comes home from work frazzled and a tad bit grumpy, instead of taking the time to learn more about his day and the event that soured his emotions.

Slow to speak. Quick to listen. Slow to become angry…taking the time to see past the exterior, to offer the benefit of the doubt.

Lord, help us view others through a grace-colored lens.

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How to Maximize Your Impact

Posted in God's Authors, intentional living, Let's Get Real, Uncategorized, United in Christ, tagged , , , , , , on April 26, 2011 | 10 Comments »

This morning I read a post on another blog about the diverse ways God reaches man and it got me thinking about my writing and how it’s changed over the past year. Hyper-calvinism tells us all we need to do is share the gospel, share the gospel, share the gospel and zap, the Holy Spirit reaches down and brings man to salvation. Now don’t get me wrong, there’s some truth to that in that apart from the working of the Holy Spirit, man cannot come to salvation. However, this approach–what I like to term, gospel tract saturation–fails to take into account human reasoning, and a great deal of the Bible.

I believe the Holy Spirit works in conjunction with the intellect, penetrating through the darkness that keeps man in rebellion against God while illuminating truth. Belief is assent at a heart and intellectual level. Taking both aspects into account strengthens our message.

Effective evangelism occurs in relationship.

Dropping a gospel tract at countless doorsteps won’t cut it. Oh, sure, perhaps five percent of those visited will probably make a confession of faith, but likely becaue someone else already laid the groundwork and you just happened to be there to reap the harvest.

Notice Jesus’ instructions to the disciples when He sent them out in Luke 9:1-6

1 When Jesus had called the Twelve together, he gave them power and authority to drive out all demons and to cure diseases, 2 and he sent them out to proclaim the kingdom of God and to heal the sick. 3 He told them: “Take nothing for the journey—no staff, no bag, no bread, no money, no extra shirt. 4 Whatever house you enter, stay there until you leave that town. 5 If people do not welcome you, leave their town and shake the dust off your feet as a testimony against them.” 6 So they set out and went from village to village, proclaiming the good news and healing people everywhere.

When they reached a new village, they were to stay in one house. I believe this was to establish community. The age old saying is so true–people don’t care how much you know until they know how much you care. Perhaps we need to spend as much time relationship building as we do proclaiming.

Effective evangelism adapts their approach to the listener

One of my favorite examples of this is in Acts 17. When speaking to the Romans, Paul reasoned with them, displaying the coherency of God.

16 While Paul was waiting for them in Athens, he was greatly distressed to see that the city was full of idols. 17 So he reasoned in the synagogue with both Jews and God-fearing Greeks, as well as in the marketplace day by day with those who happened to be there. 18 A group of Epicurean and Stoic philosophers began to debate with him. Some of them asked, “What is this babbler trying to say?” Others remarked, “He seems to be advocating foreign gods.” They said this because Paul was preaching the good news about Jesus and the resurrection.

And notice what God says in Isaiah 1:18 “Come now, let us reason together,” says the LORD. “Though your sins are like scarlet, they shall be as white as snow; though they are red as crimson, they shall be like wool.”

Throughout Scripture their appears to be a pattern of the Holy Spirit working through human logic. This is not to say the gospel message is adapted, but instead, how we present it. The person sharing the message takes time to learn the unique barriers to faith held by each individual.

Effective Evangelism Takes the Time to Understand Their Audience

Notice the passage in Acts. When Paul entered the city, he observed the culture of the people around Him. He noticed their idols–their barriers to faith–then addressed those barriers in his message, demonstrating the superiority of the gospel message.

Have you ever talked with someone and felt like they didn’t hear a word you said? Or asked a question only to have them provide an irrelevant answer? A few nights ago, as I gathered among other believers, we talked of this very thing–how people came to Christ, and one man in our group asked an interesting question. The leader began to address the question, but never did, because he was too focused on 1) the information he wanted to convey and 2) how he interpreted the question based on number 1. The problem with this was, although the speaker reached his goal, he failed to reach his audience.

Effective Evangelism Addresses the Barriers to Faith

 Why is it so hard to reach this generation for Christ? Because they have years of contradicting information filling their brains. Some may not even know Creator God. That sounds ironic to us and I have heard countless sermons on how every American understands Christianity. Do they really? And if so, what version? The tidbits they see on billboards? The Christianity presented through universities, which devote texts upon texts attempting to demonstrate why the Bible is a myth and the resurrection a fable? Unless someone clearly laid out the truth to them, there is a good chance they may not know it. And in absence of a clear presentation of truth, they likely have formed an explanation of their own making.

“Let’s say we approach a twenty-four-year-old person with the intent of proclaiming the gospel to him. He has spent twenty-four-years doing what he wanted to do, establishing habits, and developing his own value system. Almost everything fed to him is contrary to the words of God. Let’s say we spend an hour with him, during which we clearly explain the Christian faith. Now what do we expect to happen? We expect him to conclude that the direction he is taking in life is wrong…Getting substantial results from proclamation presupposes some advance preparation of the hearers (planting and watering).” (pg. 72, Petersen, Living Proof.)

What about the examples in Scripture–those who heard the gospel and instantly converted? According to Petersen, they’d already been prepared. Time and time again, as you read the conversion accounts provided in Scripture, you’ll notice these people were often called, “God-fearing Jews from every nation” (Acts 2:5), or they were “a worshiper of God.” (Acts 16:14) Most often, those who made instant conversions already had a foundation upon which to build. When Paul spoke to Gentiles, who didn’t have a foundation for Creator God, he took the time to build it.

Effective evangelism speaks with humility

No one wants to feel stupid. No one wants to be cajoled into faith. Truly, most people want to feel as if they’ve arrived at the conclusion themselves. Our goal then is to gently guide our listener or reader into discovery, asking thought provoking questions and pointing them to the truth of Scripture.

So how does this apply to writers? As we write, we must always be alert to our reader, praying for wisdom, anticipating possible objections to faith, and addressing those barriers with God’s truth, found in His Word.

Let me give an example. Joanne Sher and I are working on a biblical fiction tween devo. As we write each story, we think of the unique challenges and obstacles our readers, students between the ages of 9-13, likely face, and make sure our main characters encounter the same struggles. For example, if I’m writing a story on obedience, it won’t help my reader if my main character instantly obeys. To truly be effective, my character must struggle with obedience as my  reader would, then reach a catalyst that moves them from disobedience to obedience. In doing so, my goal is to help my reader reach the same catalyst.

I’d love to hear your thoughts on this. Do you agree or disagree? What are some effective ways you believe to reach others for Christ?

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Just Get ‘Er Done!

Posted in intentional living, Let's Get Real, United in Christ, tagged , , , , , on April 25, 2011 | Leave a Comment »

America appears to be in a constant state of panic. We fear losing our retirements to another stock market crash. We fear losing our jobs to another economic downturn. We fear radiation from Japan and damage from another earthquake, tornado or hurricane. We fear global warming, ozone depletion and at times, our own government and I could go on. But where does the Christian stand in all this upheaval? What message are we giving to a dying world? Do our actions, and our countenance, reflect the truth and power of the gospel, or have we followed the pattern of the world?

I have no idea when the end will come, and frankly, I don’t think that’s my concern. My concern–my God-given duty, is to stay watchful and keep busy. To make the most of the time I have. And as others are gripped with fear, I am to show them the confidence I have in Christ. I am to show them what it means to live in victory, as a child of the risen King who reigns sovereign, even now.

Did you catch that? God reigns sovereign, even now. The earthquake in Japan didn’t surprise Him. Nor did the stock market crash. The God of eternity past, present and future knows everything that has ever happened and everything that will ever happen, and His wisdom far exceeds any analysis we’ll find on television. Which means, our best course of action is to draw near to Him. To stay strong in Him, and to share His love with a dying world.

Because what if they days are short, and tomorrow is too late to tell that neighbor, co-worker or family member how they can be right with God?

As I was reading through Psalms this morning, I found chapter 55:9-10 quite appropriate:

9 Confuse them, Lord, and frustrate their plans,
      for I see violence and conflict in the city.
 10 Its walls are patrolled day and night against invaders,
      but the real danger is wickedness within the city. (NLT)

Violence and conflict filed the city, but the real danger was the darkened hearts of the people living in the city.

It’s easy to get distracted by the media and to follow the panic wave, but God tells us to be alert, self-controlled, and to be about His business.

Am I afraid? Yes, but not of what might happen in the economy, nor of nuclear fall-out. What burdens me most is the knowledge that if Jesus were to return tomorrow, many whom I love would be condemned to hell. For eternity, where there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth. Today is the day of salvation. Today they have the opportunity to be made right with God. Tomorrow is guaranteed to no man. The next time we hear of a new political scandal, terrorist attack or devastating earthquake, may it remind us of what’s truly at stake.

I leave you with this passage:

Luke 12:1-12

 1 Meanwhile, when a crowd of many thousands had gathered, so that they were trampling on one another, Jesus began to speak first to his disciples, saying: “Be on your guard against the yeast of the Pharisees, which is hypocrisy. 2 There is nothing concealed that will not be disclosed, or hidden that will not be made known. 3What you have said in the dark will be heard in the daylight, and what you have whispered in the ear in the inner rooms will be proclaimed from the roofs.

   4 “I tell you, my friends, do not be afraid of those who kill the body and after that can do no more. 5 But I will show you whom you should fear: Fear him who, after your body has been killed, has authority to throw you into hell. Yes, I tell you, fear him. 6 Are not five sparrows sold for two pennies? Yet not one of them is forgotten by God. 7Indeed, the very hairs of your head are all numbered. Don’t be afraid; you are worth more than many sparrows.

   8 “I tell you, whoever publicly acknowledges me before others, the Son of Man will also acknowledge before the angels of God. 9 But whoever disowns me before others will be disowned before the angels of God. 10And everyone who speaks a word against the Son of Man will be forgiven, but anyone who blasphemes against the Holy Spirit will not be forgiven.

   11 “When you are brought before synagogues, rulers and authorities, do not worry about how you will defend yourselves or what you will say, 12 for the Holy Spirit will teach you at that time what you should say.”

Meditate on verse twelve for a moment. The Holy Spirit is our comforter, friend and guide. But to gain from His wisdom and comfort, we first must draw close to Him. The closer we are to God, the stronger we’ll be when difficulties strike and the more effective our witness will be to a loss and hurting world.

And remember, if we are in Christ, we are in a position of victory. The ultimate battle’s already won. Christ claimed our victory when He hung on the cross. Battles will come, but we are on the winning team. And we know how this will all end, don’t we? When we stand before the eternal King, surrounded by His Presence, all our momentary struggles will be forgotten as unimaginable joy fills our soul.

The question is, who else will be there to celebrate with us?

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In Light of the Cross

Posted in God's Authors, intentional living, Let's Get Real, United in Christ, tagged , , on April 21, 2011 | Leave a Comment »

The other day I mentioned the discussion circulating the ACFW course loop. I found Carrie Lewis’s response quite impactful so I asked her to share with you all today.

We like to compartmentalize our life, don’t we? Church Sunday and Wednesday. Check. Work Monday through Friday. Evenings family time. Saturdays, me time. And we certainly like to remain in our comfort zone, ready with our “But I’m not gifted in that area” excuse when needs arise. But Romans 12:1 tells us to offer our bodies as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God.

 Therefore, I urge you, brothers and sisters, in view of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God—this is your true and proper worship. (NIV)

In view of God’s mercy, as you remember and contemplate the great sacrifice God made for you, as you remember the intense suffering of Christ, offer your body–the body He created and redeemed, back to Him, the giver of all life.

1 Corinthians 6:20 tells us we were bought at a price and in Romans 1:1 Paul calls himself a bondservant to Christ. I am completing a five part series on Joseph for Christ to the Word Ministries and in my latest assignment, evaluated Joseph’s life in its totally, from his perspective, seated as second in command in all of Egypt. (I’ll link to the entire series once it is edited and available.) Why did God allow him to endure slavery for so long? I believe it was to teach him to be a servant. Slaves have no rights nor expectations but instead, are constantly watching their Master, ready to do whatever necessary that they might one day hear, “Well done, good and faithful servant.”

As you read Carrie’s testimony of what she believes it means to give your life to Christ, remember the price at which you were purchased. Then ask yourself, how great is your gratitude and love, and how will that love and gratitude reveal itself in your day to day living?

* * *

There has been a lot of talk among a few of my friends about the difference between spiritual calling and spiritual offerings.

According to Merriam-Webster, the definitions of those two words are:

Calling: 1 : a strong desire to spend your life doing a certain kind of work (such as religious work) ▪ <i>He had always felt a calling to help others. ▪ He experienced a calling to enter the priesthood.  ▪ For Mary, teaching wasn’t a job, it was a calling. </i> [=vocation]
2 : the work that a person does or should be doing ▪ <i>She discovered architecture as her true calling [=vocation] while in college. ▪ He feels he missed his calling [=did not have the career he should have] by not becoming a doctor.</i>

Offering:  1 a : something that is given to God or a god as a part of religious worship ▪ ceremonial/sacrificial offerings b : an act of giving a religious offering ▪ <i>Each household must make daily offerings to the gods.</i>
2 : something that is available for sale or use ▪ The company is trying to generate interest in its new offerings. ▪ the café’s tasty dessert offering.

By those definitions, it’s easy to see a difference.

I don’t dispute the differences.

I do wonder, though, if all the talk has been much ado about semantics.

Personally, I don’t see much difference between the affect of being called and of giving offerings. When it comes to the Christian life and my view of what that is, it seems like a distinction without much difference.

Perhaps the reason is this:

I view the entire Christian life as my calling. Everything. Writing, painting, public worship, private worship, laundry, housework, grocery shopping… cleaning the toilet or the litter box. Every part of my life and everything I do should be an offering – a sweet savor – to God. I don’t have a part of my life or work that’s Christian and a part that’s set aside from Christianity.

I’ve been given the talent to write, so it’s my obligation to make the most of that talent. I can say to God, “Gee, thanks, but no thanks!” but that’s not going to carry much weight when I stand at the judgment bar and look God in the face. What makes me so certain of that?

Christ spoke of it in one of His parables. Remember the servants given talents to manage while the business owner traveled? Each servant received a different amount of money to manage with the instruction to use it wisely and give report when the business owner returned.

Two of the servants increased their holdings with wise handling. The remaining servant received only one talent, but buried it in the ground and returned it to the business owner upon that man’s return. He was not praised for his caution.

God gave me a talent or two, He expects me to use them. I will be held accountable for how I manage those talents.

How does that affect the way I look at being called and giving an offering? Just this way.

I believe writing (and painting) are my calling by virtue of the fact that I was endowed with a talent for each, the ability to enjoy the work and to feel satisfaction even when it’s hard, and opportunities to hone each skill, to learn, and to grow. With painting, to provide a revenue stream for the household provision.

The stories I write or the paintings I paint are offerings, but I consider the time I spend in those endeavors to also be offerings that supplement or support the larger calling.

And each of those two talents (and other talents I may have been given) are all part of the even larger calling of living for Christ and representing Him in everything I do, large or small and whether or not it’s directly related to each of those talents.

* * *

Carrie L. Lewis is a freelance writer living with her husband in Newton, Kansas. Credits include writing for the Clare County Review newspaper (Clare, Michigan), editorial writing (The Newton Kansan, Newton, Kansas), maintaining three personal blogs and a web site and compiling and writing annual devotionals within her church family. Carrie also writes fiction and has finished six manuscripts to date.

She has been writing stories since the eighth grade, turning what began as personal enjoyment into a pursuit for publication. She has enjoyed giving problems to characters, then helping them solve those problems through six completed manuscripts and is currently working on a seventh. Credits include writing for the Clare County Review newspaper (Clare, Michigan), editorial writing (The Newton Kansan, Newton, Kansas), maintaining three personal blogs and a web site and compiling and writing annual devotionals within her church family. She lives in Newton, Kansas with her husband and two cats.

Find out more about her, her writing, and her painting at:

 http://www.carrie-lewis.com

http://horse-paintings-in-oil.carrie-lewis.com

http://writing-well.carrie-lewis.com

 As you prepare for this holy weekend, spend a moment listening to the words of this song and ask God to search and unveil the deepest recesses in your heart removing whatever hinders you from following after Him in full surrender.

 

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How Big is Your God?

Posted in God's Authors, intentional living, Let's Get Real, United in Christ, tagged , , on April 18, 2011 | 4 Comments »

I’ve been taking an online writing course through ACFW and somehow, the conversation turned to callings. This took another detour to time constraints and learning to say no to the good in order to have time for the better. And although I do think we need to be intentional about our time, I believe we have a lot more of it than we realize…or perhaps than we care to admit. More importantly, I believe God can do more with the time we have than we truly believe.

Do we really understand who we are in Christ? Once we trust Jesus Christ as our Lord and Savior, the Creator of the Universe dwells within us. We are given the mind of Christ, are set on God’s course and are equipped with everything we need to stay the course.

In Francis Chan’s Forgotten God, he asks some thought-provoking questions and makes some powerful statements:

“When we are referring to God, balance is a huge mistake. God is not just one thing we add to the mix called life. He wants an invitation from us to permeate every part of us.” (p. 20) “And perhaps the core issue is really about our holding back from giving ourselves to God, rather than our getting “too much” of Him.” (p. 21) “After all, if the Holy Spirit moves, nothing can stop Him.” (p. 18) “Without Him, people operate in their own strength and only accomplish human-size results. The world is not moved by love or actions that are of human creation…But when believers live in the power of the Holy Spirit, the evidence in their lives is supernatural.” “I think the fear of God failing us leads us to “cover for God”. This means we ask for less, expect less, and are satisfied with less because we are afraid to ask for or expect more.”

And from his book, Crazy Love: “We try to set our lives up so that everything will be fine even if God doesn’t come through. But true faith means holding nothing back.” Speaking of his own life, he says, “I’ve made it a commitment to consistently put myself in situations that scare me and require God to come through.”

Think about that for a moment. What are you doing today that will result in failure unless God steps in? And here’s a question that is haunting. On page 174 of Crazy Love he asks, “And even more importantly, how will you answer the King when He says, ‘What did you do with what I gave you?’”

Here are some people I believed lived with reckless abandon to God, trusting in His power and not limiting their actions based on what they believed they could accomplish:

During the age of rationalism and revivalism, John Wesley traveled over 200,000 miles on horseback AND preached 42,000 sermons, wrote 200 books, organized his followers, organized a Methodist society and built a chapel. (Christianity Through the Centuries pg. 383.)

Charles Spurgeon gave enough sermons and wrote enough material to fill 200 large books. And what about the works of CS Lewis, Martin Luther, Tyndale and Wycliffe?

Were these men super Christians? Did they have more of God? God is the same yesterday, today and tomorrow. He created the universe. Honestly, He doesn’t need us and if He chose, He could raise up a stone and make it the world’s greatest orator. For some mysterious reason He has chosen to work through man–not super humans, but ordinary men and women who trust in an extraordinary God to do mighty things through us.

I believe the question is not can we accomplish A or B but will we allow God to accomplish A or B through us.

Remember the wall of Jericho we talked about? It never would have collapsed if the Israelites remained in their camp. God called them to take the city. Could they do it? Absolutley not…in their own strength. But could God do it through them? Piece of cake.

What would our world look like if people started taking God at His word and surrendered their lives completely to Him?

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What’s Your Jericho

Posted in intentional living, Let's Get Real, United in Christ, tagged , , , on April 13, 2011 | 13 Comments »

I’ve read the story of Jericho numerous times, always from the perspective of what God did–which is amazing. But today I read it through a different lens What must it have felt like for the Israelites to march around a heavily fortified, six-acre city, not once, not twice, but thirteen times?

As the 8+ meter wall loomed beside them, swallowing them in its shadow, did their courage fade? 

I imagine when they first received God’s instructions, they felt excited. Hoorah! God has given us the city! Let’s go! On day two, halfway around with no sign of victory in sight, did they begin to feel foolish? Then came day three, day four, five and six. How easy it would have been to give in, to walk away, to chalk it all up to a crazy idea not worth pursuing.

Then came day seven. This had to be the most difficult day of all when the Israelites marched around the city not once, but seven times. Seven times around a heavily fortified, six acre city. All total, the Israelites marched around the city thirteen times. Do the math–that’s a lot of acrage to cover. That’s a lot of walking, with zero fighting.

I can imagine the thoughts that must have filled their minds. Surely the God who parted the Red Sea could move faster. Seven days? Wasn’t there a more efficient way?

Maybe, if God was only concerned with conquering the city, but God had bigger plans–eternal plans. It’s easy to praise God when everything goes as expected. It’s easy to trust Him when life is easy. It’s another matter entirely when everything runs contrary to reason and we feel like we’re endlessly marching in circles. 

Seven long days of nothing, doubts and insecurities flooding their minds. Seven long days of their hearts crying out to God. “Do you remember, Lord? Are you still in this?” 

Then imagine their jubilation when they rounded that corner for the  thirteenth time and the ram horn blasted.  The faithful marchers shouted with victory, then the walls came tumbling down.

What’s your Jericho and where are you on your march?

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Their Hearts Cry Out

Posted in Just for fun, Let's Get Real, tagged , , , on April 9, 2011 | 4 Comments »

Last night I helped out at an area youth rally ran by the Fellowship Christian Athletes. Sweaty, giggling, bouncing teens swarmed the halls, filled the auditorium, and clamored around the concession stand, while others, faces hard with scowls, lingered on the outskirts. As I passed one couple in particular—a tall guy in high tops and a red jersey followed by a blonde at least two feet shorter, face caked in make-up—my heart rejoiced to see God’s grace trickle over these broken teens. Which is what they are. Sure, they look angry. They act angry, and their mouth may spew a thousand ear-blistering, hateful words, but that’s all a mask.

As adults, its easy to watch them from afar, lumping them all into one “rebellious heap”, but those who take the time to dig a bit deeper catch a different picture. A picture of isolation, of trying to fit in, of hearts broken from rejection or abandonment, of hearts crying out for a Savior.

Praise God that He sees past the exterior to broken heart hidden beneath. Praise God for His patience, as He woos these precious children to Himself, breaking through their defenses and winning their trust with His faithful love. Praise God that He not only sees the pain, but provides the soothing balm able to set them free.

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Stretched to Dependence

Posted in intentional living, Let's Get Real, United in Christ on April 6, 2011 | 1 Comment »

Last October I shared my excitement for a door God opened, one I quickly jumped through. It was a stretching experience that forced me to rely on grace. But eventually the experience grew comfortable. Not that I stettled into apathy or mediacracy, but instead, I settled into my role. Only God never wants us to settle, does He? So, yep, He opened the door a bit wider, and once again, I stepped through, knowing if God didn’t hold my hand, guide my steps, and give me an extra dose of creativity, I’d fall flat on my face. Which, initially, was a great place to be.

It’s funny how feelings of inadequacy deepen our love for God because it is then that we draw closer than ever before.

Which is where I remained for about ten minutes, then my rational, git-er-done mentality kicked in and I started trudging forward in my own strength. Not a fun, or productive place to be.

To the onlooker, you probably couldn’t tell the difference. My schedule doesn’t change one way or the other. Instead, it is a mindset shift. One says, “I need to get this done or else…” The other says, “Lord, I’m going to give you the best of me and let You determine the outcome.”

Do you get the shift? One stresses me out and makes me think that it’s up to me. Which is really scary, considering how often I mess up. The other brings me peace and turns everything into an intimate journey with my Heavenly Father.

This post I happened upon today reminded me, yet again, to surrender my goals, expectations and yes, even my to-do list, to God. The post talks about seeking God’s will when we make decisions. I’d take it a step further–when I read the passage referenced I’m reminded to stay in God’s will–to stay vitally connected to Him, not just when I make the initial decision, but as I carry it out as well.

http://jancoxabetterway.wordpress.com/2011/04/06/jesus-is-the-way-so-pray/

Enjoy, and be still. God’s got it all worked out. He’s not asking you to change the world. He’s not asking you to wow Him. All He wants is your surrendered obedience. He’ll take care of the rest.

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Forgiving Yourself by Paula Petty

Posted in intentional living, Just for fun, Let's Get Real, Uncategorized, United in Christ, tagged , , , , on April 4, 2011 | 2 Comments »

I’ve heard one of the greatest barriers to accepting Christ is the feeling of being unforgivable. One of my favorite songs is, “Love Me” by J. J. Heller, and although all the words are beautiful and reveal God’s amazing, initiating, redeeming love, it is the final verse that threatens tears every time.

It says, “I know you’ve murdered and I know you’ve lied. I’ve watched you suffer all of your life. And now that you’ll listen, I’ll tell you I will love you for you. Not for you have done or what you will become. I will love you for you. I will show you what love, what love really means.”

That verse reveals God’s heart. Grace doesn’t say get your act together, then I’ll love. It says come as you are, I’ve always loved you. Grace says there is nothing you could ever do to make God love you more and no matter what you do, God will never love you less. But my favorite part of grace is the promise that when I turn to God for forgiveness, He washes me clean and makes me knew. Every sinful stain, eradicated by the blood He shed for me, leaving me clothed in radiant white.

As you read Paula Petty’s story below, let the grace of God wash over you and hold tight to what you know is true–what He says is true. If any man is in Christ, He is a new creation. The old has gone and the new has come.

Forgiving Yourself by Paula Petty

I stepped out of the car and into a wad of gum. I went to the edge of the concrete and stroked my foot back and forth in an attempt to scrape the sticky residue from my shoe.  That didn’t work.  The gum stuck to the asphalt with each step and made a snapping sound that aggravated me.  I spent the rest of the afternoon walking on my heel.

My life was much like the gum on the shoe. I didn’t feel forgiven. With each step I took, I felt the weight of the sin sticking to me like the gum on the shoe. Confusion and doubt settled in my mind causing me to lose focus. Each mess in my life brought me before the Lord in repentance, and the weight of my sin brought me further down until my life spiraled out of control and sent me into depression. I wanted to feel forgiven.

As I moped around the house one day, a song popped into my mind about being redeemed. I started singing with barely a mumble. Then I suddenly realized that my Father had forgiven me. It was time that I forgave myself and let it go so that I could move on. I uttered another prayer to the Lord then forgave myself. Immediately, I felt a peace like nothing I had felt before.

Forgiveness is being set free from sin. Jesus sets us free from them. It does me no good to ask for forgiveness if I don’t forgive myself. When I ask for forgiveness, I am laying my burden down—all of it—at the feet of Jesus. I leave it with Him. He frees me from the guilt so that I can focus on a life filled with His love.

Oh, Lord, forgive me for whatever I have done that has not brought glory to you. Empty my heart of the bondage of sin and free me. Fill it with the peace that comes from being free. Guide me so that I can focus on a life dedicated to you. Amen

*     *     *

I’d like to close out Paula’s story with a promise God made to each of us: 1 John 1:9 “But if we confess our sins to Him, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and cleanse us from all wickedness.” (NLT)

Paula Petty has had articles and poetry published in several magazines such as Christian Woman. A former vacation Bible school director for ten years, she coordinates the ladies’ ministry at her church and speaks at ladies’ conferences in this country and Cuba, Jamaica and Honduras and is currently working on her Christian living book In Need of a Compass. Paula can be reached on her blog http://www.paulaspocket.blogspot.com or on her website www.paulapetty.com.

As an FYI, we’re getting some work done on our house starting today, which will interfere with our internet connection. Therefore, I may not post anything for a while. Have a great week!

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