I think I'm craving a little manna

Have you ever had your kids say,"Gosh, mom, there isn't anything in this house to eat?" It seems they turn on you and blame you for not having exactly what they are craving. It's almost as if we run a cafe and when you run out of something, watch out!

After the Israelites crossed the Red Sea they were filled with joy and then all of a sudden they were growing very thirsty. It seemed the water they found was too bitter. (Exodus 15:22-25) These folks were down right angry with Moses. Where in the world did their joy go? They had just had the biggest blessing as they crossed the Red Sea and found safety. Oh, how quick our gratefulness can change once our circumstances change. The thing is, our circumstances are changing all the time. Each day brings something new. Moment by moment as this world is spinning on it's axis, we too are turning in circles. It can all be quite dizzying if we ponder it. That pantry doesn't always hold what we are craving. Sure, there is food there, but it just isn't what we want. Our tummies can be just has ornery as our hearts.

So now, Moses, is pleading with the people before him. Moses is sharing the Word of God. (Exodus 15:25-27) He shares that if they just obey the Lord none of the diseases that arose on the Egyptians will touch them. After seeing what happened to them you would think they would follow right along. We are so much like the Israelites. We follow, we turn. We follow and we turn. This time they listened to Moses and before them lay twelve springs filled with pure water to quench their thirst. They had to walk through the desert, through that dry land, before they really appreciated that refreshing water that touched their lips. If our feet never touch the desert we forget the sweetness of an oasis.

Here they go again. Complaining. (Exodus 15:1-3) I mean can you imagine twelve springs of water? I see before me beauty, but their eyes were not looking for the blessings God wanted for them. They were seeking what their flesh wanted. Oh, have I been there. God chooses my path. He sets before me what He wants me to have and I sit back and have the audacity to say, "Ya know, that's not really what I want. Can I give you my order, please?" I think God probably sits back at times and shakes His head at our ungratefulness. He is giving. Giving what we do not deserve. And what do we do? We throw it back in His face.

Listen to this verse from Exodus 15:1-5 "Then the Lord said to Moses, 'Look, I'm going to rain down food from heaven for you. Each day the people can go out and pick up as much food AS THEY NEED for that day. I will test them in this to see whether or not they will follow my instructions. On the sixth day they will gather food, and when they prepare it, there will be twice as much as usual.'"  What a gracious God we serve. Giving more than usual. They were heaping in double blessings! He was providing a way.

The Lord gave all the bread they needed in the morning and all the meat they needed at night. He was opening up heaven for them. He not only quenched their thirsts, but He too heard their complaints. He is giving as they need. How many times does He do that for us on a daily basis and it simply isn't enough. We look to heaven for God to answer and that answer just doesn't suffice, so what do we do instead of obey? We turn in anger like a child who can't have a chocolate bar before dinner is prepared.

Okay, so Moses was trying to lead the people as God called him to. Not unlike a pastor trying to lead a flock of sheep that want to go their own way. All Moses could do was give the message of the Lord. Moses told the people not to keep any of the food until morning. They were to gather enough for that day. Just what they needed. Instead they gathered more than their share and what happened? By morning as they were hungry once again they looked and what they had gathered out of disobedience turned to maggots! Yuck! (Exodus 15:17-25)

"'You may gather the food for six days, but the seventh day is the Sabbath. There will be no food on the ground that day.' Some of the people went out anyway on the seventh day, but they found no food. The Lord asked Moses, 'How long will these people refuse to obey my commands and instructions? They must realize that the Sabbath is the Lord's gift to you. That is why he gives you a two-day supply on the sixth day, so there will be enough for two days. On the Sabbath day you must each stay on your own place. Do not go out and pick up food on the seventh day." Exodus 15:26-29

Can you imagine manna falling from heaven? Can you picture this? It's not so hard for us. We receive our own manna from heaven each and every day. God supply ALL we NEED. For the almost three years my husband was laid off from his job we never went hungry. We never thirsted. God provided our NEED. Sure we didn't have everything we desired. Sometimes you had those cravings late in the night for that snack you took for granted, but HE never once let us down. He still provides today. We have manna from heaven. We just have to look for it. We must get past our selfish desires, our fleshly hungers and realize what He has for us is best. When we follow His commands He provides ALL.

"So the people of Israel ate manna for forty years until they arrived at the land where they would settle. They ate manna until they came to the border of the land of Canaan." Exodus 15:35  God's provision is extraordinary. There is nothing about God that is ordinary. He provided each and every day for these people. When will we get over ourselves? We are such a complaining people. As long as we have what we desire we are happy, but when the desert comes we find ourselves miserable. It's kind of like as long as we have money in our pockets to go shopping we walk with smiles, but when that check book is dry, oh how our countenance changes. We become down right crabby.

"How I praise the Lord that you are concerned with me again. I know you have always been concerned for me, but you didn't have the chance to help me. Not that I was ever in need, for I have learned how to be content with whatever I have. I know how to live on almost nothing or with everything. I have learned the secret of living in every situation, whether it is with a full stomach or empty, with plenty or little. For I can do everything through Christ who gives me strength." Philippians 4:10-13

We can learn so much from the Israelites about thankfulness and contentment. We can learn to follow Christ through every situation that comes. We can trust Him and through our belief in Him, He will never let us down. Sure, we might be searching through the cabinets, but maybe we just aren't looking in the right place. The blessings are there if we can get past our thinking that we must have what we want instead of what we need. When we figure out our needs and wants, God has a way of providing both.

A CONFIDENT HEART by RENEE SWOPE

Ladies, get ready. Here is a book for you! I am one of those girls who lacks self confidence. Well, with Christ as my Savior, He is my confidence! Ever find yourself doubting your decisions and actions? Me too. This is why I love this book so much. Each chapter takes us deep within that doubt we carry and Renee helps us see just how much baggage we have. She not only shows us what is weighing us down, but opens our eyes to new and insightful ways to allow God to move through us, strengthen us and empower us! She points out God's promises and takes us on a journey through scripture and her own life to see when we let go and let God, all things are possible. I learned when I have doubt I am allowing fear to overtake me. There isn't faith in that. I want to live a life filled with faith and I too want to walk confident in the woman God created me to be.

Renee is awesome at being transparent. She shows us how to see beyond our vision and grasp a hold of all God is creating in us. We are a work in progress. It's all in changing our thinking. We must remove the doubt and fear and replace it with faith and trust. God can take us from broken to beautiful. Renee, reminds us who we are in Christ through scripture and stories. This book will bless your walk with Christ and strengthen you to be the woman God has called you to be. It was really a  treasure to read.

This book was a gift from Revell for it's review.

Renee Swope is a popular national women's conference speaker, radio show co-host, and the executive director of radio and devotions at Proverbs 31 Ministries. She's also a contributing author to three additional books, including a Gold Medallion finalist and a People's Choice Award finalist, as well as several online and print magazines. Renee is featured writer for Encouragement for Today online devotions that currently touch over 450,000 lives each day across the world. She lives in North Carolina with her husband and three children.

Searching for a rescue?

"But Moses told the people, 'Don't be afraid. Just stand still and watch the Lord rescue you today. The Egyptians you see today will never be seen again. The Lord Himself will fight for you. Just stay calm.'" Exodus 14:13-14

As I read these words of scripture they bring me to the edge of Red Sea. Can you see the Israelites standing on the edge of the waters waiting? Anticipating to see what the Lord is going to do? It isn't hard for us to envision. We have all been there. We wander through the desert searching for a way out. Everything looks the same. We cry out to God and ask, "Are You there? Will You rescue me?" It is so hard to wait, isn't it? The most wondrous thing is the peace that God washes over us as we are waiting for that rescue. As God, in His perfect time, parts the waters for you to cross we must stand in faith.

Are you standing at the edge of the Red Sea today? Do you have enemies at your back? Just remember God will make a way! He will lead you out of your fear and despair. He will part the high waters that are surrounding you and clear a path for you to find not only safe ground, but set you a top a hill of refuge! You are not alone my friend. Jesus knows what is behind you and what is ahead of you. Trust Him and surrender all your burdens to Him.

"Then the angel of God, who had been leading the people of Israel, moved to the rear of the camp. The pillar of cloud also moved from the front and stood behind them. The cloud settled between the Egyptian and Israelite camps. As darkness fell, the cloud turned to fire, lighting up the night. But the Egyptians and Israelites did not approach each other at night." Exodus 14:19-20

We have a mighty God who will never leave us. He knows we are at the edge waiting for Him. He has His hand of protection over us today just as He did the Israelites. What must we do when circumstances surround us? Stay fixed upon Him. We don't have to look back. He has our past covered. We don't have to fear tomorrow. He too, has His hand upon our future. There is nothing for us to fear as long as we stand in faith at the edge anticipating what God is going to do. He parted those waters for the safe crossing of the Israelites and He closed the path for the wicked that were following them.

"Then Moses and the people of Israel sang this song to the Lord: I will sing to the Lord, for He has triumphed gloriously; He has hurled both horse and rider into the sea. The Lord is my strength and my song; He has given me victory. This is my God, and I will praise His name, my father's God, and I will exalt Him! The Lord is a warrior; Yahweh is His name!" Exodus 15:1-3

We receive that bad news. The unexpected happens. We are faced with decisions. Opposition seems to be surrounding us. When we are faced with the trials of this world we must not forget our way. We must not allow those troubles to torment our hearts. It seems today we are on overload. We are facing such hard times in our country today. We could just allow fear to overtake us. We could allow indecision to tempt us into turning our own way. God knows each and every moment of each and every day we face. He knows just how real our troubles are. He hasn't left us. If anything we leave Him. We feel He isn't moving as we expect. Maybe He isn't moving fast enough for us. Oh, have I been there. I have felt like I was standing in the desert screaming at the top of my lungs and no one was hearing me. Most of all God. But, He did hear. I can tell you I felt His hand take hold of mine many nights and I heard His voice say, "Just hold on daughter. Hold on and trust your Father."

Everything in my life is not perfect. In fact, it is far from perfect, but even in those imperfections life is good. It is good when I remain focused on God for EVERYTHING. It's when I take my eyes off Him that I lose my way and think all is lost. God is working behind the scenes. He is working in the hearts of those around us. There is nothing that touches our life that is without purpose. God will make a way. He will part the waters and rescue you from your enemies. As we stand on the edge of the Red Sea, lets not forget those who have crossed before us and those who will cross after us.

"Show me the right path, O Lord; point out the road for me to follow. Lead me by Your truth and teach me, for You are the God who saves me. All day long I put my hope in You." Psalm 25:4-5

"He is my loving ally and my fortress, my tower of safety, my rescuer. He is my shield, and I take refuge in Him. He makes the nations submit to me." Psalm 144:2

That same God who we see on those great days of joy that lights up our countenance, is that same God who will bring you through on those very days where all seems to go dark. Even in that darkness, He will light the way. May we learn to trust Him in ALL circumstances. In giving Him praise for ALL we will find that peace to bring us through the edge of darkness into the light of grace.

A New Season

As I sit here this evening, my windows are open and a soft breeze is blowing in. The curtains are gently moving as the breeze comes in touching my skin, refreshing my mind, renewing my heart. New beginnings take us from the stagnant past into the future of hope.

I love autumn. There is something so tender about the falling leaves. Each one is released and gently falls to the ground as if to say, "It's a new season. My time here is finished. Hope in tomorrow." There is a season for everything. The bible speaks of those very seasons.

"For everything there is a season, a time for every activity under heaven. A time to be born and a time to die. A time to plant and a time to harvest. A time to kill and a time heal. A time to tear down and a time to build up. A time to cry and a time to laugh. A time to grieve and a time to dance. A time to scatter stones and a time to gather stones. A time to embrace and a time to turn away. A time to search and a time to quit searching. A time to keep and a time to throw away. A time to tear and a time to mend. A time to be quiet and a time to speak. A time to love and a time to hate. A time for war and a time for peace." Ecclesiastes 3:1-8

Whatever season you are in today there is hope. You may be in the season of plenty today with a countenance of joy. You may be in a time of mourning with a touch of despair. Friends, each season brings upon us a new season. I had someone share with me just a few days ago, "Relationships are not like slates to be wiped clean." I must disagree with this statement. Christ came to wash away our sins. He died so that we could have a new beginning with Him. Praise God for His grace that washes peace over us. Peace that we cannot understand, but peace that brings us to the place where we believe and trust in the Lord for all that today brings.

"For I know the plans I have for you, says the Lord. They are plans for good and not for disaster, to give you a future and a hope. In those days when you pray, I will listen. If you look for me wholeheartedly, you will find Me." Jeremiah 29:11-13

I have been through my share of seasons. There are seasons past and those to come. Each one bringing something new and meaningful to my life. Each one carrying with it a purpose. A purpose to bring me closer to the Lord and to create in me a vessel more like Christ. There are seasons in my life I didn't think I would make it through. Seasons that seemed to take my breath away. But too, there are seasons in my life that have brought great blessings. Without those that bring us to our knees would we really appreciate those that make us stand up and give praise? Might we get to that point in life, that very season, where we are content in all all things.

"Rejoice in our confident hope. Be patient in trouble, and keep on praying. When God's people are in need, be ready to help them. Always be eager to practice hospitality." Romans 12:12

Have you ever been in that season where you shouted out to God, "Why? Why, Lord?" I think we all have. If you have not been there, you will. One day each of us will face that day where we don't understand today and we fear what tomorrow brings. But friends, if we can be still. If we can fall to our knees in prayer, the Lord will lift us up. There is no room for fear in faith. Faith brings a renewed hope. He will bring us through each season. As each season passes we will have a better understanding of those falling leaves. As each one falls there is a new leaf forming. Just beginning to bud, but ever so gently. In God's perfect time it buds and blossoms. It is then we see. We can in that breath release the fear that has held us captive.

"We can rejoice, too, when we run into problems and trials, for we know that they help us develop endurance. And endurance develops strength of character, and character strengthens our confident hope of salvation. And this hope will not lead to disappointment. For we know how dearly God loves us, because He has given us the Holy Spirit to fill our hearts with His love." Romans 3:3-5

These verses I share with you today have brought me through the seasons of life. Those that have broken me and those that have brought a smile. But through each season, they have all held mercy. We can feel so alone and as if we are the only person going through the struggle of life. Dear friend, you are not alone. Jesus is here. He is waiting to embrace you and set you free of yesterday and all that burdens your heart. Let go and let God today. We cannot always change our circumstances, but we can change our attitude of life. We can rejoice and know that God is real and present in our lives. He is the God of hope. He is the God of new beginnings. How do I know? He is my hope and He brought me to a place where I can let all go and trust Him completely. Surrendering not only my life, but everything to Him.

Just as the leaf falls from the tree, open your hand and release all to Christ. Allow Him to carry your every burden so that you can find a hope renewed. A new beginning.

I'm inviting you to join me at Women in High Def

Hey friends, on August 24th I was honored to be a guest of Diane Markins at Women in High Def. We spoke about encouragement and how valuable it is to our walk in Christ. Encouragement is priceless. It gives us what we need to make it through the day. Those rough patches in life. Those moments in life when we don't think we can take another breath. But there in our time of need, in God's perfect timing, He sends that one person to lift us up and set us on course. 

Please come on by and visit Diane Markins. We would love to hear your thoughts. Has someone encouraged you this week? In what ways have you reached out to another in love?

http://dianemarkins.com/?wihd=social-media-for-encouragment

GRACE FOR THE GOOD GIRL by EMILY P. FREEMAN

It's like, Emily, wrote this book for me. As I opened up these pages before me I realized the hurdle jumper I have been. Being a good girl will kill your spirit. Listen to these words and see if they sound like you:

If you serve in the church, then you will be accepted.
If you are responsible, then you will be respected.
If you follow all the rules, then you will be good enough.
If you try hard, then you'll become more like God.
If you act righteous, then you will become righteous.
If you keep your house clean, then you will be a good wife.
If you make healthy dinners every night, then you will be a good mom.
If you wake up at 5 a.m. and pray every morning, then you will be a good Christian.

How's that sounding? Maybe you are trying to be a good girl too. Some how it happens to us before we know it and then we have put so many masks on we can't recognize ourselves any longer. Praise the Lord for God's grace.

If you are a woman, this book is for you! I love how, Emily, designed this book. We begin reading, Part 1, The Hiding. Oh, how I have been a hider. Then we have Part 2, The Finding. Receive, Remain, Respond and Remember. Four simple words that will lift that mask off and help you see who you really are. A daughter of the King of kings! Lastly, Part 3, The Freedom of Being Found. Don't you love to feel safe? We can feel safe when we allow Jesus into our lives and trust Him with everything!

This book holds a leader guide that would be wonderful to use for a group setting. Ladies, looking for a Sunday School lesson? This is it. Maybe your just looking for a great read. This would be a lovely addition to add to your quiet time.

Emily shares stories of her own life and struggles. She opens up the lives of her friends and allows us to peek inside. Something I love about this book? Emily is transparent. Not only can we see her heart, but we can see Christ shining through her. I am so glad He moved her to write this book. I am glad she chose to listen. This is a gem of a book that will help you learn to let go and let God. It's more than okay for us to be vulnerable. We don't have to hide any longer. We have freedom in Christ! When I can walk away from a book with a better understanding of who I am and who Christ is in me, well then, I know I have found a gift to treasure.

This book was a gift from Revell for it's review.

Emily Freeman is a writer who loves to read and a speaker who would rather listen. She writes for DaySpring (a division of Hallmark) and has also traveled as a writer with Compassion International to raise awareness for the needs of children in poverty around the world. She attended Columbia International University to study the Bible and the University of North Carolina at Greensboro where she earned a degree in Educational Interpreting for the Deaf. She is married to John, a student ministries pastor, and together they live in North Carolina with their three children. Emily extends a daily invitation on her blog for women to create space for their souls to breathe. Come join the community of grace dwellers at www.ChattingAtTheSky.com.

Here is a great opportunity to make a HUGE difference!

Friends, I would like to share a great opportunity for you to make a difference in a young person's life. We are called to serve. We are called to reach out. We are called to make a difference. I want to share what is happening in the lives of our college group at my church.

I attend Bethel Baptist Church in Lonedell, Missouri. Yep, we are a little bitty town and a small, home town church, but our hearts are mighty for the Lord. We have a mission and a purpose filled ministry. I suppose I should begin by telling you about the leaders of our college group. They are Darin and Amanda Slater. A young couple who serves the Lord diligently with every thing they have. They have the most beautiful family and the greatest thing about this young couple is they want to serve. They are willing. They see a need and they want to meet that need. They strive daily to live for the Lord and in doing so they make a difference in the college/career age group at our church. My son has been blessed by this family. Darin is like that big brother constantly reaching out and Amanda is that woman with a smile and song in her heart.

In the last few years they have taken the college age group to Passion. A conference designed to reach college age adults. As you know, times are hard and this year they are trying to raise funds so that each and every person can attend for free.What a great gift to these young people who other wise would not be able to attend the greatest conference going for young adults. These young adults are a valuable part of our church. They are our future and through them there is a hope to reach many for the glory of God.

This year the Passion Conference will be in Atlanta, Georgia at the Georgia Dome. January 2-5 will be a life changing event for this group of amazing people. Can you imagine the Georgia Dome filled with thousands of young adults wanting to know more about Christ? I am blessed to travel with them this year and I am so excited to see what the Lord has planned.  I can tell you this group is trying to raise the funds needed in every way possible. They have had car washes, events where they serve the community, and soon they will be having a dinner. They are working diligently to meet their goal. They are getting close. I know the Lord will provide all they need for this amazing opportunity to seek Christ on a whole new level!

This is where you come in. I am asking you to prayerfully consider donating to this years conference. I have taught many of these young adults when they were just beginning junior high school. I have watched them grow into amazing people. People who love the Lord and want to make a difference in this world. Donate as the Lord leads you to give. Maybe it's a $5.00 check, maybe it's a $20.00 check. I am asking you to give as the Lord leads. Darin and Amanda are reaching out and asking their fellow brothers and sisters in Christ to give a hand in making a difference in a life. A life that will no doubt do great and mighty things for the Lord. This conference is a teaching tool to a life with Christ. I have attached a video and the website for Passion. Here is just a little information about this amazing opportunity.

“At the heart of it all, Passion exists to see a generation stake their lives on what matters most. For us, that's the fame of the One who rescues and restores, and the privilege we have to fully leverage our lives by amplifying His name in everything we do.

Given the fact that the university landscape changes every fall with a rush of new freshman faces, our mission at Passion is to continue to engage the "university moment," with the compelling message of Jesus and the story He is writing around the globe.
To that end, Passion 2012 is more than just another event, it's a beautiful part of a movement that's about finding true meaning as we take our place in a story so much bigger than ourselves. It's about trading small dreams for a grand epic that is shaping history and has no end. And it's about a rare chance for tens of thousands of university-aged young people to gather in celebration of their common faith purpose.
In years past we have hosted multiple venues at our Atlanta gathering, but in 2012 we are moving across the street into the Georgia Dome, a larger venue we are setting at half-house so we can all see each other's faces in one shared space.
Passion 2012 will be a unique gathering, one that most likely will not be repeated in 2013. We want you to be there… and we are inviting you to join the movement for His renown!”

I am working on attaching a pay pal account so that will be easier for you, but for now I am giving you the name of our pastor and the address to our church. I will later be writing about this conference and sharing with you the blessings that your donation has helped to provide.

Pastor Ben Kingston
569 Bethel Baptist Church
Lonedell, Missouri 63060

You can make checks payable to Pastor Ben Kingston or Bethel Baptist Church.

If you need more information you can give me a call at 636-584-5287 or our church at 636-629-2978.

http://www.268generation.com/2.0/splash1.htm

http://268generation.com/passion2012/#/!/about/schedule/

This is the event that Bethel Baptist Church’s 15+ college and career students will be attending. Not only is it full of wonderful worship, featuring Chris Tomlin, Matt Redmond, David Crowder Band, Christy Knockles, and many more, but it also features some of the most dynamic speakers to appear on the Christian scene today. They include Louie Giglio, the founder of the Passion conferences, Francis Chan, author of the best seller, “Crazy Love,” Beth Moore, renowned women’s author; John Piper, pastor and best selling theologian and author; and many more.



This event is one that is life changing, as well as a mission field on its own, with many, many opportunities to give and help those around the world with the missions that Passion takes it upon themselves to help with.


For more info, please check out http://www.268generation.com for links, videos, and much more.


You too can find Passion on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/Passion268generation
 
Friends, this young group of people are servants of Christ. They have young hearts willing to go the extra mile. They want to serve in whatever way the Lord is calling. This opportunity will only lead them to be stronger and more faithful servants of the Most High. You may be asking, "What will my donation be providing?" It will help in ticket purchase, traveling to Georgia, lodging and meals for those attending. Your donation will make this years conference a life changing event. That is a pretty special gift!
 
Thank you for your gift to these amazing young people to move them forward on their journey with Christ.
Blessings to you,
Robin Prater

THE AMBITION by LEE STROBEL

Here is the description of The Ambition by the publisher:

A corrupt judge in a mob murder case. A disillusioned pastor, hungry for power. A cynical reporter, sniffing for a scandal. A gambling addict whose secret tape threatens the lives of everyone who hears it. New York Times bestselling author Lee Strobel weaves these edgy characters into an intricate thriller set in a gleaming, suburban megachurch, a big-city newspaper struggling for survival, and the shadowy corridors of political intrigue. The unexpected climax is as gripping as the contract killing that punctuates the opening scene

What are my thoughts? This book is AMAZING! It is fast paced and keeps you riveted until the last page. It is one of those legal thrillers that brings you in close to see the heart of deception. You combine danger, deceit and death and you have yourself one roller coaster ride. I read this book deep into the night. The characters blew me away. They were deep and their lives were filled with ambition. Ambition that sets them on a road to pride and danger. A life they were not looking for, but found none the less. What I love is the fact that we see humility come. We see the characters face the very thing that brought them to be where they were. They get mixed up in such deceit they soon lose who they are. But God has a way of bringing them back and bringing the truth to light. You are going to enjoy this book. Hold on to your seat, cause it's a crazy ride!

This book was a gift from Zondervan for it's review.



Lee Strobel is an award-winning legal editor of The Chicago Tribune and a New York Times bestselling author. After years of nonfiction bestsellers, he is publishing his debut fiction novel, a legal thriller. Lee is a Yale Law School graduate, accomplished journalist, and world-renowned speaker

What's forgiveness all about?

We live in such a way that we don't find ourselves accountable for our own actions, but we instead are quick to pin point anothers faults, mistakes and past. It's easy to hold onto a grudge. It starts out as anger, maybe a misunderstanding, a wrong choice of words and soon before you know it, it's eating you alive. What's wrong with a grudge? The other person is not affected. They don't even know your angry. Your holding this all in and walking with it, or I should say stumbling over it. There is no love in anger.

"And be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving each other, just as God also in Christ forgave you." Ephesians 4:32


I am one of those girls who pretty well speaks her mind. But I am learning to be slow to speak, slow to anger and give myself room to breathe before I make a decision. It's hard isn't it? It's hard when we feel wronged in any situation to keep our cool. We react before we think and then we find ourselves in a situation we didn't see happening.

"Leave your gift there in front of the altar. First go and be reconciled to your brother; then come and offer your gift." Matthew 25:24


It's like we keep tabs on the wrongs against us. We add them up and weigh and measure them to see where that person fits on the scale. If they have more good than bad, we might just find forgiveness. If we see there are more wrongs, well, there is no forgiveness on our part. We don't feel justified to forgive. After all, we are the one who feels wronged, but in fact, most of the time we are the one who did the injustice. The very things we are accusing another of we ourselves are carrying in our hearts.
 
"This, then, is how you should pray: Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name, your kingdom come, your will be done on earth as it is in heaven. Give us today our daily bread. Forgive us our debts, as we also have forgiven our debtors. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from the evil one; For if you forgive men when they sin against you, your heavenly Father will also forgive you. But if you do not forgive men their sins, your Father will not forgive your sins." Matthew 6:9-15


Forgiveness isn't about keeping score. It isn't about bringing up every wrong act and measuring it against our right. It's not about weights and measures at all, but in fact, grace. I am so glad Jesus doesn't measure my life on a scale of good and bad, but covers me in His grace. The good that comes from my life is ALL HIM. The bad is ALL ME. Today is a new day, praise the Lord. Whether we have forgiveness and acceptance from others has nothing to do with our forgiveness. We are called to reach out in love.We are called to forgive. Whether it is accepted or not, we still love.

"And when you stand praying, if you hold anything against anyone, forgive him, so that your Father in heaven may forgive you your sins." Mark 11:25


In humbleness we reach out to another. We may say, "I am sorry for the past", or "Please forgive me for my wrongs in the situation." That other person isn't always going to forgive us. But you know what? That is on them. Once we have emptied our heart and surrendered our wrong to the Lord and went to the other person in love it is up to them if they accept. We can't change others, but we can change our reaction to those around us. We can forgive a wrong even if that person never comes to us and accepts the wrong they did to us. They may never find themselves accountable for their side of the actions. They might find themselves morally correct on all counts and find you way off base.
 
"Therefore confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous man is powerful and effective." James 5:16

Have you ever found yourself smiling at one and saying, "Hello", as you pass, but in your heart as they walk by all you feel is anger? What was that smile all about? Why give the hello if you don't mean it? There is no reason for us to be fake. I don't want someone smiling and saying hello to me if they in turn walk by with a hardened heart. That isn't love. Before the hello comes there must be forgiveness in the heart. Before the smile we must be transparent and forgive the wrongs we feel that were brought to us. We are to be real. When we feel wronged we are to go to that person in love. That person. Not every girlfriend under the sun and speak badly of them, but that one person who has broken our trust or hurt us in some way. We are to clear the air. No one wants to walk in pollution. It stinks and it leaves a nasty residue on you.

“But I tell you who hear: love your enemies, do good to those who hate you, bless those who curse you, and pray for those who mistreat you. To him who strikes you on the cheek, offer also the other; and from him who takes away your cloak, don’t withhold your coat also. Give to everyone who asks you, and don’t ask him who takes away your goods to give them back again.  “As you would like people to do to you, do exactly so to them.  If you love those who love you, what credit is that to you? For even sinners love those who love them.  If you do good to those who do good to you, what credit is that to you? For even sinners do the same.  If you lend to those from whom you hope to receive, what credit is that to you? Even sinners lend to sinners, to receive back as much. But love your enemies, and do good, and lend, expecting nothing back; and your reward will be great, and you will be children of the Most High; for he is kind toward the unthankful and evil. Therefore be merciful, even as your Father is also merciful.  Don’t judge, and you won’t be judged. Don’t condemn, and you won’t be condemned. Set free, and you will be set free." Luke 6:27-37


In forgiveness we don't go back and bring up every wrong. What's wrong with just letting go and letting God? What's wrong with starting fresh and making a clean break from the past and introducing yourself to a new day? Instead of carrying stones in our pocket of anger and resentment, why not fill out pockets with gems of love? Do we really want to throw a stone? Stones hurt. They not only hurt the person who is hit by it, but the one doing the throwing. See, where they sit, they are right and you are wrong. In most cases, there are three sides to every story. Your side, their side and the truth, which lies somewhere in the midst of both stories. The only way for the truth to come out is to invite Christ into the situation and humble ourselves enough to take a really deep look into our heart. Once we can find ourselves accountable, it's much easier to find grace for the other. After all, aren't we looking for that same grace from our Savior? How can we expect Him to forgive us and accept us if we are not willing to lay down the bitterness bag?

“For if you forgive men their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you. 15 But if you don’t forgive men their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses." Matthew 6:14-15



"He has removed our sins as far from us as the east is from the west." Psalm 103:12

We must give ourselves permission to make mistakes. I taught my children long ago that a mistake is only a mistake if you cannot walk away from it and learn something. Now, you have just taken that wrong choice and found wisdom in your humbleness to look beyond yourself. When we can't find forgiveness we really are selfish. We ask for forgiveness from God, but yet we are unable to give it. Does that even make sense? Who do we think we are? Isn't that kind of self righteous of us? Down right arrogant, isn't it? We go to God and ask forgiveness, but yet we put limits on others. We try again to make it all about us.

In forgiveness there is love. There is peace. There too is freedom and in that we find grace. God's grace covers each and every wrong. His blood was shed for us. As His blood flowed from our sins, we were washed white as snow when we found ourselves accepting Him. See, the thing is, when we accept Christ, that means we love and accept others. By no means does that mean we accept sin, but we, in love, accept those words of, "I'm sorry", and we move forward. We don't stay stagnant in the past. The past can keep us from all God has for us. When we step out of our anger and embrace forgiveness we are allowing Christ's love to flow through us. We get comfortable in anger, don't we? We hold on to it like a comfy blanket. We gotta throw that blanket off and move out of our comfort zone into the zone of forgiveness. We must try to see the other side. That person that is so angry. Might there be reason for their anger? Maybe there is and they just went all wrong about how they acted in a situation. But now, they wish they could go back and remove that deposit in history. We can't go back, my friends, but in forgiveness we can find a way to move forward and reach for something valuable. Grace.

"Finally, all of you should be of one mind. Sympathize with each other. Love each other as brothers and sisters. Be tenderhearted, and keep a humble attitude. Don't repay evil for evil. Don't retaliate with insults when people insult you. Instead, pay them back with a blessing. That is what God has called you to do, and He will bless you for it." 1 Peter 3:8-9

Following His lead

"So, I say, let the Holy Spirit guide your lives. Then you won't be doing what your sinful nature craves. The sinful nature wants to do evil, which is just the opposite of what the Spirit wants. And the Spirit gives us desires that are the opposite of what the sinful nature desires. These two forces are constantly fighting each other, so you are not free to carry out your good intentions. But when you are directed by the Spirit, you are not under obligation to the law of Moses." Galatians 5:16-18

"But the Holy Spirit produces this kind of fruit in our lives: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. There is no law against these things." Galatians 5:22-23

"No, O people, the Lord has told you what is good, and this is what He requires of you: to do what is right, to love mercy, and to walk humbly with your God." Micah 6:8

Oh my, our flesh is always at war with the Spirit's calling, isn't it? Sure, we hear Him. We know what we are to do, but we simply can't. Oh, we can, but maybe we just don't want to. Been there?

It's hard to admit when we are wrong, isn't it? We always want to be right. There's that pride sneaking up again. So often, all it takes for a situation to have peace is for one person to say, "I am so sorry. I was wrong." Now, we can't control what that other person may say, but we can control our actions. If we would only follow the Spirit's leading instead of rushing out there and standing in our own way. You know, we really can be our own worst enemy.

When people are mean, what do we want to do in return? Be mean. But that is that ugly flesh. People cannot see Christ living in us if we allow our flesh to control our every emotion and action. If we shift our focus off of our pride and fix our gaze on Jesus, well, everything is different. Love begins to flow outward and inward we now have a peace we never knew existed.

We are called to be humble. That isn't always easy, but in doing so we surrender our flesh to the Lord. We are called to live mercy. When we have compassion for others and see others needs before our own, it has a way of changing us. It's no longer about ME. We are called to do what is right. I cannot tell you how many times I thought I was doing what was right. Sure, in my heart it might have felt right. My intentions may have been honorable, but the way I approached the situation was wrong. My words were not spoken in love, but in anger. It's amazing what just a little anger can do. It spreads like wild fire and it takes a washing of God's grace to distinguish the flames.

God will NEVER lead me astray. He will NEVER ask of me more than I can give through His strength. This life is not about ME. Oh, we make it about us, don't we? We feel this or we feel that. Gosh, if we didn't let our feelings get in the way of relationships just think of the possibilities. God wants to move through us. He wants to love through us. He wants us to be His hands and feet. If we are always trying to do the leading we are going to miss out on the blessings He has for us. I cannot tell you how many times I have tripped over my own two feet and some how one of those feet always ends up in my mouth!

We can't show love if we aren't able to carry joy in our heart. Peace brings patience to every situation. Goodness flows from kindness. When we are faithful we tend to be gentle to those around us. The amazing thing is, we cannot have any of this fruit unless we have self-control. They all go hand in hand with one another. Isn't it amazing how God has gloriously laid these things out before us? All we have to do is follow His guidance.

So friends, whatever your facing today, fix your gaze upon the Lord. Set your feet upon the right path. Allow Him to do the leading for once. In doing so it will be the greatest dance ever. Sure, we may have two left feet, but if we allow the Lord to lead, we will find joy in each and every step.

"Show me the right path, O Lord; point out the road for me to follow. Lead me by Your truth and teach me, for You are the God who saves me. All day long I put my hope in You." Psalm 25:4-5