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When You’re Not Expecting It (1)
“Then cometh the devil.”
Lk 8:12
Anne Graham Lotz writes: “In the course of a week, the hot-water heater broke, water pipes burst…the bathroom showerhead fell off…[and] I was confronted with friction between family members and problems with my ministry staff. I was tempted to lose my temper, to worry instead of trust, and to neglect my prayer life. What looked like ordinary frustration…was something more sinister…Satan attacks our weakened defenses in the mundane areas of our lives.” The Bible says that immediately following the spiritual blessing He received at His baptism, Jesus was led by the Spirit into the desert “to be tempted by the devil” (See Mt 4:1-11). There are important lessons here: (1) Don’t rest in success. After the benediction comes the battle. What incredible blessing has God recently given you? Whether it involves your ministry, family, career, or your personal walk with God, watch out! Satan targets us when we’re off guard. (2) Stay in God’s will. Have you ever thought, “If it’s this hard it can’t be God’s will” and decided to quit? Just because you’re doing the right thing doesn’t mean you’re immune. Jesus was in God’s will when the Enemy attacked Him. When things look bleak, don’t “lean…on your own understanding”; that’s the time to “trust in the Lord with all your heart” (Pr 3:5 NKJV). (3) Know the Scripture. Every time Jesus was attacked He countered with, “It is written.” God’s Word is called “the sword of the Spirit” (Eph 6:17 NIV) because it’s our primary offensive weapon against—evil (See v. 16). Jesus used it to defeat Satan, and so must you.
Ministering To Others (1)
“God…comforts us…so that we can comfort [others].”
2Co 1:3-4 NIV
Years ago a lady visited an orphanage and asked the matron, “Is there a child here nobody has offered to adopt?” The matron replied, “There is. She’s ten years old, not much to look at, and she has a hunchback.” The lady said, “That’s the child I want!” Thirty-five years later the director of the Orphanage Inspection Department in Iowa submitted the following report on a state-run facility: “This home is outstanding. It’s clean, the food’s good, the children are well-cared-for, and the atmosphere is unlike anything I’ve ever experienced. The matron, Mercy Goodfaith, has a soul that oozes love; she has such beautiful eyes I forgot how homely her face was—or that she was a hunchback.” Because a Good Samaritan had the courage to love and nurture a little girl others overlooked, Mercy Goodfaith went on to share that same love with hundreds of other orphans. Paul says, “God…comforts us…so that we can comfort those in any trouble with the comfort we…received.” And Billy Graham adds: “Those who have suffered the most are best able to comfort others …to empathize with [their] afflictions because of what they’ve experienced…Our sufferings may be hard to bear, but our goal should be to learn all we can from what we’re called to endure so we can fulfill a ministry of comfort as Jesus did. ‘Because he himself suffered when he was tempted, he is able to help those who are being tempted’ (Heb 2:18 NIV). The sufferer becomes the comforter in the service of the Lord.”
A MIGHTY SERVANT OF GOD
Ephesians 4:17-24New American Standard Bible (NASB
17 So this I say, and affirm together with the Lord, that you walk no longer just as the Gentiles also walk, in the futility of their mind, 18 being darkened in their understanding, [a]excluded from the life of God because of the ignorance that is in them, because of the hardness of their heart; 19 and they, having become callous, have given themselves over to sensuality [b]for the practice of every kind of impurity with greediness. 20 But you did not learn [c]Christ in this way, 21 if indeed you have heard Him and have been taught in Him, just as truth is in Jesus, 22 that, in reference to your former manner of life, you lay aside the old [d]self, which is being corrupted in accordance with the lusts of deceit, 23 and that you be renewed in the spirit of your mind, 24 and put on the new [e]self, which [f]in the likeness of God has been created in righteousness and holiness of the truth.
To become God’s mighty servants, we must decide whether we will base our life on His priorities or the world’s. The two are incompatible.
Before salvation, people typically live according to whatever the flesh desires, indulging themselves with food, entertainment, and material goods. Promoting self-gratification, our culture maintains that everyone is the center of his own universe and can decide what is right for himself.
Scripture teaches the opposite: to put God above all else and “regard one another as more important than yourselves” (Matt. 6:33; Phil. 2:3). So how do we give God top priority? Jesus says it means loving Him wholeheartedly, denying ourselves, and following Him (Matt. 16:24; Matt. 22:37-39). That includes generosity. Instead of encouraging us to acquire money and possessions, He teaches that giving brings far more blessings than receiving (Acts 20:35).
How can we know we are becoming spiritually stronger? First, we’ll be less attracted to the ungodly practices of our world and will yearn to be more like Jesus. Next, we will start replacing ungodly habits with activities that please the Lord. Then, we’ll begin to comprehend some of the deeper biblical truths and apply them in our life. Finally, our spiritual discernment will improve. With the Spirit’s help, we will more easily recognize unrighteous ideas and behavior.
Do you want to become mighty in spirit? If so, spend time in the Scriptures learning what is important to God. Then ask Him to transform you into the person He has designed you to be.
Overcoming Temptation (4)
“Its fruit looked delicious…So she…ate it.” Ge 3:6 NLT Let’s look at the first time in Scripture anyone was tempted and see what we can learn. The Bible says, “The serpent was the shrewdest of all the [creatures] the Lord God had made…he asked the woman, ‘Did God really say…?’” (v. 1 NLT). First, Satan will blind you to all the good things God has in store for you. Then he’ll take mood-altering substances like drugs or alcohol, or somebody else’s husband or wife, or Internet porn, and tell you it won’t hurt you. Don’t bite! He’s a liar! Don’t believe him! “Temptation comes from our own desires…These desires give birth to sinful actions. And when sin is allowed to grow, it gives birth to death. So don’t be misled, my dear brothers and sisters” (Jas 1:14-16 NLT). Any weakness that’s constantly indulged, excused, denied, or hidden has the power to enslave you. Failure to identify and target your weakness strengthens it. Ignoring your areas of vulnerability makes defeat inevitable. Satan has assigned certain people to feed your weaknesses. Be discerning. Your weakness will be drawn to any friendship that accepts it, enjoys it and feeds on it. It has an agenda of its own—to take over your life and sabotage God’s plan for you. It’ll always bond with the wrong people and make you uncomfortable in the presence of the right ones. And it can emerge at any time, including your latter years. So how do you overcome your weakness? Through willpower? No, through God’s power! And it’s available to you today—so reach for it!
Overcoming Temptation (2)
“I have given you…[physical and mental strength].” Lk 10:19 AMP Here’s a plan for victory: (1) No matter how often you fall, get back up! “Though a righteous man falls seven times, he rises again” (Pr 24:16 NIV). Becoming spiritually mature is a lifelong process. It happens every time you turn to God in weakness and allow Him to do for you what you can’t do for yourself. (2) Don’t deny it, deal with it. “The Lord is near to the brokenhearted” (Ps 34:18 NAS). God always responds with grace to a repentant heart. He’ll meet you at your lowest point, walk with you through the valley of regret and repentance, and bring you out stronger. (3) Write down what you’ve learned through temptation. As you reflect on it you’ll see what needs to be “transformed by the renewing of your mind” (Ro 12:2). And be sure to write down new habits you want to integrate into your life—prayer, accountability to a friend, Bible reading and memorization, identifying weak spots, and watching yourself more closely. (4) Use what you’ve learned. Jesus told Peter: “Satan hath desired to have you…But I have prayed for thee, that thy faith fail not: and when thou art converted, strengthen thy brethren” (Lk 22:31-32). Let today mark a new beginning by using what you’ve learned not only to avoid falling again, but to help others facing temptation. (5) Believe you can walk in victory. Jesus said, “I have given you…[physical and mental strength…] over all the power that the enemy [possesses].” Get rid of your “I can’t” attitude, and draw today on God’s strength.
The Ultimate Purpose Of Prayer
“To be conformed to the likeness of his Son.” Ro 8:29 NIV The Bible says, “Those God foreknew he…predestined to be conformed to the likeness of his Son.” When you read the preceding verses in the chapter you discover God does this through prayer. This should encourage you to pray. Many times we don’t pray because we don’t think anything’s happening. But with God, something’s always happening! We wonder, “When is He going to work?” What we fail to understand is—He’s always working. When it comes to prayer He’s either answering the way you hoped, or changing your heart through the Spirit’s intercession to bring your prayer into harmony with His will. You say, “But I don’t see anything happening.” When you plant a seed, you don’t come back the next day expecting green shoots and leaves. Does that mean nothing’s happening? No, a host of necessary processes are taking place below the ground where you can’t see them. Don’t make the mistake of thinking because you don’t see the evidence that nothing’s happening. It’s just not harvest time yet. One way in which God is making us more like Jesus is by helping us to pray the way Jesus prayed, “Not my will, but thine, be done” (Lk 22:42). That means when your prayer lines up with His will, He’s already working on it even though you can’t see it. And if your prayer isn’t in accordance with His will, He’s working to change your request by changing you. Unanswered prayer can be as big a blessing as answered prayer, when it keeps us from violating God’s will. And what is God’s will? To make you more like Jesus!
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Bless Them
“Be mindful to be a blessing.” Gal 6:10 AMP When someone hurts you, you have three options: (1) hurt them back; (2) avoid them altogether; (3) pray for them and look for ways to bless them (See Mt 5:44-45). Paul says: “As occasion and opportunity open up…let us do good [morally] to all people [not only being useful or profitable to them, but…doing what is for their spiritual good and advantage]. Be mindful to be a blessing.” We’re so caught up with how others treat us that we’ve little or no concern about how we treat them. We’re afraid of being taken advantage of, especially if our past experience with someone has been painful. Not only do fear and dread make us supersensitive to everything they say and do, we may misinterpret their motives and see them in a negative light. Without question, it’s difficult not to be concerned that others will treat you badly if they already have a proven track record. That’s why it’s so important not to think about it at all (See Php 3:13 and Isa 43:18). Does this mean the person won’t have to account for how they treated you? No. The Bible says, “Each of us will give an account of himself to God. Therefore let us stop passing judgment on one another” (Ro 14:12-13 NIV). Hand the situation over to God—and refuse to take it back. Then, “Be mindful to be a blessing.” In other words, occupy your thoughts with ways in which you can be helpful. When you do that you’ll have no time to dwell on personal grievances. Plus, it gives God an opportunity to work on them—and you.
Hidden By Design
“In the shadow of His hand He has hidden Me.” Isa 49:2 NKJV When you’re called to serve God in a particular capacity, it’s not unusual to go through a period of anonymity where you feel invisible. Isaiah was called of God “from the womb” (v. 1 NKJV). But he experienced a season of being hidden “in the shadow” while God perfected his ministry. When a vision takes a long time to come to fruition, and you’ve sacrificed and worked without recognition or seeing results, it’s easy to feel like you’re wasting your life. Isaiah was human too. He got discouraged and said, “I have labored to no purpose…spent my strength…for nothing” (v. 4 NIV). But just because you feel that way doesn’t mean it’s true. “God…rewards those who earnestly seek him” (Heb 11:6 NIV), and you’re no exception. It took thirty years before Jesus started His public ministry. Moses, David, John the Baptist, and Paul endured years of obscurity before they were brought to the forefront. In God’s Kingdom there are no overnight sensations or flash-in-the-pan successes. One Christian author says: “Anyone who wants to be used of God will experience hidden years in the backside of the desert. During that time the Lord is polishing, sharpening and preparing us to fit into His bow, so at the right time, like ‘a polished shaft’ He can launch us into fruitful service. The invisible years are years of serving, studying, being faithful in another person’s ministry and doing the behind-the-scenes work.” The Bible says, “God is not unjust; he will not forget your work” (Heb 6:10 NIV). Be patient; when the time is right He will bring forth the fruit He placed inside you.
Dad, Bless Your Children!
“Son, your sins are forgiven.”
Mk 2:5 NKJV
Old Testament fathers placed their hands on their children’s heads and spoke certain promises over them, believing the blessing of God can be passed from one generation to another. It’s why “Isaac called Jacob, and blessed him” (Ge 28:1). It’s why Jacob refused to die before blessing his grandchildren (See Ge 48:14). Children without caring, involved fathers often spend their whole lives searching for a sense of identity and self-worth. Increasingly they’re finding them in the company of rebellious peer groups, street gangs, drug dealers, and on social media and the Internet. And we see the results of it all around us. Instead of fulfilling their God-given destiny, these kids become defined and labelled by a lifestyle such as “runaway,” “convict,” “troublemaker,” “addict.” Before Tupac Shakur, the rap artist known for his violent song lyrics, was gunned down in 1996, he said, “I never knew my real father. I know for a fact that if I’d had a father, I’d have some discipline [and] more confidence. Your mother can calm you down, reassure you…But you need a man to teach you how to be a man.” When a man was brought to Jesus for healing, before He forgave and healed him, He called him “son.” He didn’t say, “You’ve got to clean up your act,” or “You must do things My way.” No, He established a relationship with the man by showing him love and acceptance. And as a father you need to do the same. Loving and accepting your kids as they are, without conditions and condemnation, is the greatest gift you can give them.
Don’t Be Afraid (2)
“Oh, that [we] would give thanks to the Lord for his goodness.” Ps 107:8 NKJV When you’ve been through hard times, it can make you want to cut back on trusting God, and start playing it safe. When you’ve been through back-to-back storms, the security of the harbor starts looking good. Now it’s okay to rest and regroup, but don’t settle for safety and miss what God has planned for you. The Bible says: “Those who go down to the sea in ships, who do business on great waters…see the works of the Lord, and His wonders in the deep. For He commands and raises the stormy wind, which lifts up the waves of the sea. They mount up to the heavens, they go down again to the depths; their soul melts because of trouble. They reel to and fro…stagger like a drunken man, and are at their wits’ end. Then they cry out to the Lord in their trouble, and He brings them out of their distresses. He calms the storm, so that its waves are still. Then they are glad because they are quiet; so He guides them to their desired haven. Oh, that men would give thanks to the Lord for His goodness” (vv. 23-31 NKJV). Where do we see God’s wonders? In life’s storms! Jesus issued 125 recorded commandments. Twenty-one of them are “Don’t be afraid” or “Have courage.” The second most common commandment, to love God and your neighbor, appears on only eight occasions. That means the one statement Jesus made more than any other was “Don’t be afraid!” Why? Because He wants you to trust Him more!
Spirit-Filled Living
“When the Spirit has his way with us.” Gal 5:17 TLB
Always remember that no matter how long you walk with God, your carnal nature never improves. It never becomes more like Jesus, even over time. That’s why we’re told to “crucify” it daily (See v. 24). Even the apostle Paul struggled with his lower nature: “We naturally love to do evil things…opposite from the things that the Holy Spirit tells us to do; and the good things we want to do when the Spirit has his way with us are just the opposite of our natural desires. These two forces within us are constantly fighting…to win control over us, and our wishes are never free from their pressures…But when the Holy Spirit controls our lives he will produce this kind of fruit in us: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control” (vv. 17, 22-23 TLB). You ask, “Is such a lifestyle even possible?” Yes, but you must do these four things: (1) Remember that Satan never takes a day off. You’re constantly in his crosshairs, so you must protect yourself with God’s Word and prayer. (2) Identify the sin you’re most prone to. The Bible says, “Lay aside…the sin which so easily ensnares” (Heb 12:1 NKJV). Why? Because the area of your greatest weakness is the one in which you’ll constantly be attacked. (3) Keep your spiritual tank full. “The mind of sinful man is death, but the mind controlled by the Spirit is life and peace” (Ro 8:6 NIV). (4) Walk in God’s strength, not your own. Does the fight ever end? No, but God’s power—plus your choice to obey and keep fighting—always leads to clear and lasting victory.
Pray For Self-Control
Monday June 13 “Do not let sin reign in your mortal body so that you obey its evil desires.” Ro 6:12 NIV Self-control is one of the great keys to success in life. And since God’s Word has a lot to say about it, if you ask Him He will help you to cultivate it. What you struggled with when you were young will be different from the things you struggle with when you’re older, but you’ll face temptation in one form or another as long as you live. Self-control is one of the nine fruits of the Spirit listed in the Bible (See Gal 5:22-23). It calls for bringing every aspect of your life under the mastery of the Holy Spirit. It’s a lifestyle characterized by discipline, not impulse. The Greek word for “self-control” comes from a root word meaning “to grip.” It calls for getting a grip on your spending so that you don’t go into debt for things you don’t need and can’t pay for. It calls for getting a grip on your temper and not saying things you’ll later regret: “Better…a man who controls his temper than one who takes a city” (Pr 16:32 NIV). It calls for getting a grip on your desires. If Joseph had failed to say no to the repeated advances of his boss’ wife, he’d never have seen his life’s dream fulfilled and sat on the throne of Egypt. Understand this: Satan has discerned your destiny and he’s out to stop you from reaching it. So pray for self-control, and practice it on a daily basis.
“Does This Person Belong In My Life?”
“Can two walk together, unless they are agreed?” Am 3:3 NKJV A toxic relationship is like a limb with gangrene: Unless you amputate it the infection can spread and kill you. Without the courage to cut off what refuses to heal, you’ll end up losing a lot more. Your personal growth—and in some cases your healing—will only be expedited by establishing relationships with the right people. Maybe you’ve heard the story about the scorpion who asked the frog to carry him across the river because he couldn’t swim. “I’m afraid you’ll sting me,” replied the frog. The scorpion smiled reassuringly and said, “Of course I won’t. If I did that we’d both drown!” So the frog agreed, and the scorpion hopped on his back. Wouldn’t you know it: Halfway across the river the scorpion stung him! As they began to sink the frog lamented, “You promised you wouldn’t sting me. Why did you do it?” The scorpion replied, “I can’t help it—it’s my nature!” Until God changes the other person’s nature, they have the power to affect and infect you. For example, when you feel passionately about something but others don’t, it’s like trying to dance a foxtrot with someone who only knows how to waltz. You picked the wrong dance partner! Don’t get tied up with someone who doesn’t share your values and God-given goals. Some issues can be corrected through counseling, prayer, teaching, and leadership —but you can’t teach someone to care. If they don’t care, they’ll pollute your environment, kill your productivity, and break your rhythm with constant complaints. That’s why it’s important to pray and ask God, “Does this person belong in my life?”
Parenting And The Battle For Control
“Do not provoke your children to anger by the way you treat them.” Eph 6:4 NLT If your teenagers don’t like you telling them what to do, relax; they’re normal. And it’s not peculiar to teenagers; it starts much earlier. One psychologist tells about the mother of a tough little four-year-old girl who was demanding her own way. The mother said, “I’m your boss, I have the responsibility to lead you, and that’s what I intend to do!” Little Jenny thought over her mother’s words for a minute, then said, “How long does it have to be that way?” Already, at four years of age she was yearning for the day when nobody could tell her what to do. That’s a God-given instinct. One of the first things God said to Adam and Eve was, “Take control over the earth.” So the task for you as a parent is to hang on to the reins in the early days, and gradually begin to grant independence as maturity is demonstrated. This is one of the most delicate responsibilities of parenting. Power granted too early produces folly, but power granted too late brings rebellion. Knowing when to let out the rope, and by how much, requires wisdom, and God is the giver of wisdom (See Jas 1:5). If you pray, observe, and listen carefully, you’ll begin to see the critical milestones in your child’s life. Paul writes, “Do not provoke your children to anger by the way you treat them. Rather, bring them up with the discipline and instruction that comes from the Lord.” And as a parent, that’s some of the best advice you’ll ever get.
Ministering To Others (2)
“Therefore comfort one another with these words.”
1Th 4:18 NKJV
Professor Tony Campolo once attended the funeral of an acquaintance, and by mistake ended up at the wrong funeral parlor. The body of an elderly man was laid out, and his widow was the only mourner there. She seemed so lonely, Campolo stayed for the funeral and then accompanied her to the cemetery. After the committal service, as they were driving away Campolo confessed that he hadn’t actually known the lady’s husband. “I thought so,” she replied. “I didn’t recognize you. But it doesn’t matter. You’ll never, ever, know what this means to me.” Philip Yancey writes: “Simple availability is the most powerful force we can contribute…We rightly disparage Job’s three friends for their insensitive response to his suffering. But read the account again: ‘When they came, they sat in silence beside Job for seven days before opening their mouths’…those were the most eloquent moments they spent with him. Instinctively I shrink back from people in pain. Who knows if they want to talk about their predicament or not? Do they want to be consoled or cheered up? What good can my presence possibly do? My mind spins out these rationalizations and as a result I end up doing the worst thing possible: I stay away…No one offers the name of a philosopher when I ask, ‘Who helped you the most?’ Most often they describe a quiet, unassuming person…who was there…who listened more than they talked, who didn’t keep glancing down at a watch, who hugged and touched, and cried… someone who was available and came on the sufferer’s terms, not their own.” That’s how you minister to others.
Dad, Treasure Your Children
“The children God has graciously given your servant.”
Ge 33:5 NIV
We live in a day when kids have never been given more of the things they want, and less of the things they need. What do they need? You! Not trinkets, treasures, and toys, but your love and your time. Read these unsettling words in a Newsweek column entitled, “Dear Dads, Save Your Sons,” by psychologist Christopher Bacorn. He tells about an anxious mother in her mid-thirties who came to his office with her fifteen-year-old son. The boy’s dad had left four years before. Since then the teenager had descended into alcohol, gang membership, and violence. The mother had nowhere else to turn, and it was obvious the boy was at best a hostile participant. After attempting for thirty minutes to crack the steel vault of this boy’s heart, Dr. Bacorn realized the futility of it all. He wrote these poignant and sad words: “I’ve come to believe that most adolescent boys can’t make use of professional counseling…What a boy can use, and all too often doesn’t have, is the fellowship of men—at least one man who pays attention to him, who spends time with him, who admires him. A boy needs a man he can look up to. What he doesn’t need is a shrink…As a nation we’re racked by youth violence, overrun by gangs, guns, and drugs. The great majority of youthful offenders are male, most without fathers involved in their lives in any useful way.” In Genesis we read that Jacob was a successful businessman, but he discovered that his greatest earthly treasure was “the children God has graciously given to your servant.” Dad, have you discovered that?
MIGHTY IN SPIRIT
Ephesians 3:14-16New American Standard Bible (NASB)
14 For this reason I bow my knees before the Father, 15 from whom [a]every family in heaven and on earth derives its name,16 that He would grant you, according to the riches of His glory, to be strengthened with power through His Spirit in the inner man
Everyone wants to be healthy in mind, body, and spirit. To become physically fit, we need to exercise our muscles vigorously and regularly. If our goal is to be stable in soul (our thoughts, will, and emotions), then we must apply our minds to learning and train ourselves to be self-controlled. However, to become mighty in spirit requires something more than self-effort.
You see, none of us were born with a spiritual connection to God. Because of Adam and Eve’s rebellion, we were all dead in our sins and separated from the Lord (Eph. 2:1). No amount of personal effort can bring an individual to life spiritually. Although we are unable to change this condition for ourselves, nothing is impossible for God (Matt. 19:26). By accepting Jesus’ sacrificial death on the cross as payment for our sins, we are forgiven, reconciled to God, and made alive in our spirit (Eph. 2:5). This is the beginning step of the Christian life.
Once we are born again, the indwelling Holy Spirit teaches us how to view life as Jesus did, embrace His values and priorities, and follow His example. The more we yield to the Spirit’s control, the sooner we’ll be transformed into Christ’s image, equipped to carry out the Lord’s will, and strengthened in our inner spirit to serve Him.
God desires followers who will dedicate themselves to His plan and serve as ambassadors for Christ to a lost and hurting world. He doesn’t expect that we will train ourselves for this task—He has sent His Holy Spirit to prepare us for the work ahead. Have you answered His call to service?
Overcoming Temptation (3)
“He ran from the house.” Ge 39:12 NLT The Bible says, “Joseph was a very handsome and well-built young man, and Potiphar’s wife…began to look at him lustfully. ‘Come and sleep with me,’ she demanded. But Joseph refused. ‘Look,’ he told her, ‘my master trusts me with everything in his entire household…How could I do such a wicked thing? It would be a great sin against God.’ She kept putting pressure on Joseph day after day, but he refused to sleep with her, and he kept out of her way as much as possible. One day, however, no one else was around when he went in to do his work. She came and grabbed him by his cloak, demanding, ‘Come on, sleep with me!’ Joseph tore himself away, but he left his cloak in her hand as he ran from the house” (vv. 6-12 NLT). Note the words: “She kept putting pressure on Joseph day after day.” Joseph’s temptation kept happening when he was around a certain person: Potiphar’s wife. And it kept happening when he was in a certain place: Potiphar’s house. So he ran. Not because he was weak—but because he was wise! He understood that if you hang around temptation too long you’re playing with fire and setting yourself up to get “burned.” So, what people and what places do you need to avoid? What sources of temptation do you need to remove from your life in order to live victoriously? Remember the old Kenny Rogers song: “You got to know when to hold ’em, know when to fold ’em; know when to walk away and know when to run”? God isn’t dishonored when you run—you’re dishonored when you don’t!
Overcoming Temptation (1)
“Nor do we know what to do, but our eyes are upon You.” 2Ch 20:12 NKJV When Jesus told Peter he would soon deny his Lord, Peter boasted, “Others may, but not me!” Yet within a few hours he was swearing and disavowing any knowledge of Jesus. It can happen to any of us. The Bible says, “Each one is tempted when he is drawn away by his own [particular] desires and enticed” (Jas 1:14 NKJV). We all have areas of vulnerability which, if not disciplined by character and commitment, have the potential to defeat or even destroy us. What can you do? (1) Recognize it. Before you yield to temptation you usually go through certain stages. By neglecting prayer and Bible reading you become indifferent to God, insensitive to danger, and find yourself drawn like a moth to a flame. Then you begin to rationalize your disobedience and think, “Nobody knows. What harm will it do?” And the more you silence the voice of conscience, the stronger your carnal appetites become. Then you surround yourself with people who do the same things, or are at least willing to look the other way. Jesus said, “Pray…that you may not enter into temptation” (Mk 14:38 AMP). Pray for strength before the temptation comes! (2) Reach for help. When Jehoshaphat came up against an enemy too big to handle alone, he prayed, “We have no power against this great multitude…nor do we know what to do, but our eyes are upon You.” Jehoshaphat knew he was no match for the Enemy, and he knew where to turn for help. What’s the secret of victory? Lean less on yourself and more on God!
Instead Of Judging People, Let’s Love Them
“Let us stop passing judgment on one another.” Ro 14:13 NIV You can work alongside and pray for someone who’s having an extramarital affair, without having one yourself. Remember, you were a sinner before you were saved by the grace of God, so act with humility and don’t fall into the trap of self-righteousness. As Merv Rosell says, “When God forgives, He consigns the offense to everlasting forgetfulness,” so show grace when you encounter somebody whose lifestyle makes you uncomfortable. Learn as much as possible about them, and allow your interactions to dispel any preconceptions and prejudices. See them as hurting individuals loved by God—people who need the same grace you received. When you love the unlovely, you’re just doing what God did for you. Just because somebody’s “different,” doesn’t mean you should dismiss them or consider them inferior. You don’t want to be judged or demeaned because of your color, culture, or countenance, so don’t do it to others! Because the Bible is clear about not emulating others in their sinful practices, we can be tempted to think we’re better than they are. That’s the sin of pride! Sometimes we think if we love and accept certain people, we’re condoning their sin. No, the truth lies in remaining respectful, and accepting others the way Jesus did. Whether it was racial differences (Samaritans), lifestyle differences (the five-times-divorced woman at the well), or class differences (Nicodemus), Jesus loved and accepted people as they were, while inspiring them to a higher standard.
Give Yourselves To God
“Do not let sin control the way you live.” Ro 6:12 NLT When someone says, “I can’t help myself; it’s just the way I am,” they are right, but only partially right! Researchers identified more than a hundred identical twins that had been separated at birth. They were raised in various cultures, religions, and locations. By comparing their similarities and their differences it became clear that as much as 70 percent of their personality—was inherited. Their DNA determined such qualities as creativity, wisdom, loving-kindness, vigor, longevity, intelligence, and even the joy of living. Consider the “Jim twins” who were separated until they were thirty-nine years old. Both married women named Linda, owned dogs named Toy, suffered from migraine headaches, chain-smoked, liked beer, drove Chevys, and served as sheriff’s deputies. Their personalities and attitudes were virtual carbon copies. What do these findings mean? Are we puppets on a string, playing out a predetermined course without free will or personal choices? Not at all. Unlike animals, we’re capable of rational thought and independent action. We don’t have to act on every sexual urge, for example, despite our genetic underpinnings. Heredity may nudge us in a particular direction, but our impulses can be brought under control. This is where the new birth comes in. God gives you a new nature, and the power to overcome your old one. Paul addresses it: “Do not let sin control the way you live, do not give in to sinful desires. Do not let any part of your body become an instrument of evil to serve sin. Instead, give yourselves completely to God, for you were dead, but now you have new life” (vv. 12-13 NLT).
Stay Focused On Your Mission
“My foot has held fast to His steps; I have kept His way and not turned aside.” Job 23:11 NKJV Many of our endeavors in life fail for one reason—broken focus. We allow ourselves to get distracted. Ralph Waldo Emerson said, “Concentration is the secret of strength in politics, in war, in trade; in short, in all management of human affairs.” Where should you focus your concentration? On your mission! And when you make a mistake don’t chase after it. Don’t try to defend it. Don’t throw good money after it. When you make a mistake acknowledge it. If you need to, seek forgiveness from God and the person you have hurt. And when possible try to make amends. Once you’ve done these things, refocus your attention on your mission and move on. Keep your eye on what it is you desire to do. You’ll never meet a person focused on yesterday who had a better tomorrow. John Foster Dulles, secretary of state under President Eisenhower, observed: “The measure of success is not whether you have a tough problem to deal with, but whether it is still the same problem you had last year.” A problem resolved is a springboard to future success, to bigger and better things. The key is to focus on what you’re learning, not losing. When you do that you open the door to future possibilities. Dr. Norman Vincent Peale said, “Positive thinking is how you think about a problem. Enthusiasm is how you feel about a problem. The two together determine what you do about a problem.” And in the end, that’s what matters.
Renew Your Mind With God’s Word
“Be transformed by the renewing of your mind.” Ro 12:2 NKJV The most important thing you can do every day—is renew your mind with God’s Word. When you get that right, everything else will begin to fall into place. You’ll think and act differently, so you’ll get different results. Do you remember the old TV series The Beverly Hillbillies? What made the show so interesting is that Jed and his family had been set free from their past—a life of poverty back in the Ozarks. But even after they moved to California’s Beverly Hills, they continued in their “hillbilly” ways. Their location had changed, but their mindset hadn’t. The same was true of the Israelites. They had a slave mentality. Even though they were free and God was providing their every need, the minute a problem came up they wanted to go back to Egypt. They couldn’t enter tomorrow because they were still carrying the baggage of yesterday! Read these words carefully: “Therefore, since a promise remains of entering His rest, let us fear lest any of you seem to have come short of it” (Heb 4:1 NKJV). You ask, “But aren’t God’s promises guaranteed?” Yes, if you do what He says! God promised to bless you financially—if you tithe and sow generously. He promised to direct your paths—if you acknowledge Him in all your ways. He promised to forgive you—if you forgive others. You only “prove what is that good…acceptable…perfect will of God” by continually renewing your mind! So the word for you today is: Renew your mind with God’s Word.
Don’t Be Afraid (3)
“Why are you so fearful?” Mk 4:40 NKJV Following Jesus invariably means going through storms. When you’re in over your head and sinking fast, you learn things about the Lord you’d never know otherwise. At first you wonder, “How did I get into this mess?” Then you start to see His hand at work and end up saying, “Who can this be, that even the wind and the sea obey Him!” (v. 41 NKJV). The disciples finally reached a place where they were willing to follow Jesus—without question. And that’s God’s plan for you. “Don’t be afraid” isn’t a call to naïvety or ignorance. God doesn’t expect us to be oblivious to the challenges life brings. But as long as Peter kept his eyes on Jesus the waves couldn’t take him under. So look to God, stand on His Word, and recall His goodness. The Bible says, “We must pay much closer attention to what we have heard, so that we do not drift away from it” (Heb 2:1 NAS). Do whatever it takes to keep your eyes on the Lord. C. S. Lewis wrote: “Moods will change, whatever view your reason takes. I know that by experience. Now that I’m a Christian I do have moods in which the whole thing looks very improbable; but when I was an atheist I had moods in which Christianity looked terribly probable…that’s why faith is such a necessary virtue: Unless you teach your moods ‘where to get off,’ you can never be either a sound Christian or a sound atheist, but just a creature dithering to and fro with his beliefs really dependent on the weather and the state of his digestion. Consequently, one must train the habit of faith.” So the word for you today is: Don’t be afraid.
Don’t Be Afraid (1)
“Why are you so fearful?” Mk 4:40 NKJV Notice how the disciples reacted to the storm on the Sea of Galilee, and see if you recognize any of the same traits in yourself: (1) Fear makes us doubt God’s care. The disciples asked Jesus, “Do You not care that we are perishing?” (v. 38 NKJV). They didn’t ask about His strength: “Can you still the storm?” Or His knowledge: “Are you aware of the storm?” Or His know-how: “Do you have any experience with storms?” Instead they voiced doubts about His character: “Do you not care?” If you let it, fear will erode your confidence in God’s love and make you forget His faithfulness. (2) Fear makes us reach for control. Jesus was asleep, so the disciples woke Him and said, “Do something, quick!” Fear comes from a perceived loss of control. When we’re afraid, we grab for a component of life that we can manage—like our diet, or our job, or the neatness of our house, or in many cases—people. The more insecure we feel, the more controlling we tend to become. (3) Fear makes us forgetful. The Bible says, “He cast out the spirits with a word, and healed all who were sick” (Mt 8:16 NKJV). What a résumé! But fear gives us spiritual amnesia; it makes us forget what Jesus has already done and how good He has been to us. And what was Jesus’ response? “Why are you so fearful? How is it that you have no faith?” Faith doesn’t eliminate fear; it silences it, robs it of its power, and draws us closer to God. And when that happens things begin to change for the better.
Bible Study: Make It Personal
“The measure [of thought and study] you give [to the truth you hear] will be the measure [of virtue and knowledge] that comes back to you.” Mk 4:24 AMP Martin Luther said studying the Bible was like picking apples. First you shake the trunk, then you shake the limb, then you shake the branch, then you shake the twig, then you look under every leaf. There’s no other book in the world like it. You can read the same Bible verse a dozen times and get a dozen different insights. That’s because it’s “God-breathed” (2Ti 3:16 NIV). Here’s what Jesus said about studying God’s Word: “[Things are hidden temporarily only as a means to revelation.] For there is nothing hidden except to be revealed, nor is anything [temporarily] kept secret except in order that it may be made known” (Mk 4:22 AMP). Then He adds: “Be careful what you are hearing. The measure [of thought and study] you give [to the truth you hear] will be the measure [of virtue and knowledge] that comes back to you—and more [besides] will be given to you who hear” (v. 24). Do you want to grow spiritually? Build better relationships? Succeed in your career? Conquer anxiety and find peace? Break a bad habit? Be healed from the emotional wounds of your past? Then meditate on, ponder, think about, practice mentally, and verbalize the Word of God. Instead of living off someone else’s spiritual insight, study God’s Word for yourself and allow the Holy Spirit to bless you with life-transforming insights. Jesus said, “The Spirit takes my message and tells it to you” (Jn 16:15 CEV). And you’ll experience the truth of those words when you personalize the Scripture you’re reading.
When You Are Criticized
“He did not retaliate when he was insulted.” 1Pe 2:23 NLT When it comes to constructive criticism, try to learn from it and grow wiser. When it comes to unjustified criticism, remind yourself that Jesus was criticized too, so you’re in good company. And when you’re tempted to give in to resentment and strike back, read these Scriptures: “If you suffer for doing good and endure it patiently, God is pleased with you. For God called you to do good, even if it means suffering, just as Christ suffered for you. He is your example, and you must follow in his steps. He never sinned, nor ever deceived anyone. He did not retaliate when he was insulted, nor threaten revenge when he suffered. He left his case in the hands of God, who always judges fairly” (vv. 20-23 NLT). There’s an interesting story about Abraham Lincoln. During the Civil War he signed an order transferring certain regiments, but Secretary of War Edwin Stanton refused to execute it, calling the president a fool. When Lincoln heard this, he said, “If Stanton said I’m a fool then I must be, for he’s nearly always right, and he says what he thinks. I’ll step over and see for myself.” He did, and when Stanton convinced him the order was in error, Lincoln quietly withdrew it. Part of Lincoln’s greatness lay in his ability to rise above pettiness, ego, and sensitivity to other people’s opinions. He wasn’t easily offended. He welcomed criticism, and in doing so demonstrated one of the strengths of a truly great person: humility. So, have you been criticized? Make it a time to learn, not lose.
Reach For Help
“The work is too heavy for you; you cannot handle it alone.” Ex 18:18 NIV God has placed people within your reach who are willing to help you. If you don’t accept their help, you will be frustrated and they will be unfulfilled because they’re not using their gifts. God hasn’t called you to do everything, for everybody, in every situation. You can’t be all things to all people all the time! You yourself have legitimate needs, and when they are not met you suffer and so do the people around you. There’s nothing wrong with needing help and asking for it; in fact, it’s wrong to need help and be too proud to ask. Because the children of Israel looked to Moses for everything, he tried to be “all things to all people.” And that’s when he reached a breaking point. So his father-in-law suggested he delegate some of his authority, and let others make the less important decisions while he made the more important ones. It worked! Moses did what Jethro suggested and it enabled him to succeed in his assignment. Plus, those under his leadership got to enjoy a sense of accomplishment too. It was a win-win, and the job got done right! Question: Are you complaining that people are placing too many demands on you, and you’ve too much to do? Are you reluctant to let others help because you don’t think anyone can do the job as well as you? Look out! The Scriptures caution about developing “an exaggerated opinion of your [own] importance” (Ro 12:3 AMP). Reach for help. You’ll last longer and enjoy life more if you do!
Don’t Give Up—Go Through
“Pursue…overtake…and…recover all.” 1Sa 30:8
When King David and his men returned home from battle, they discovered that the Amalekites had burned their homes to the ground and taken their families prisoner. They were devastated. They wept until they’d no tears left. Then God spoke to them and said, “Pursue…overtake…and…recover all.” And with His help they did! So no matter how bad your situation looks right now, don’t give up. Cry if you have to, then dry your tears and go out in God’s strength and take back what the Enemy has stolen from you. If necessary, take it an inch at a time, drawing on His strength and not your own. Paul writes: “Let us not lose heart and grow weary and faint in acting nobly and doing right, for in due time and at the appointed season we shall reap, if we do not loosen and relax our courage and faint” (Gal 6:9 AMP). God won’t quit on you, so don’t quit on Him! He has promised in His Word: “When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and when you pass through the rivers, they will not sweep over you. When you walk through the fire, you will not be burned; the flames will not set you ablaze. For I am the Lord, your God” (Isa 43:2-3 NIV). Don’t give up—go through! It’s easy to quit, but it takes faith to go through. When your faith honors God, He honors your faith! And with Him on your side you’ll come out stronger than you were when you went in. So the word for you today is: “Pursue…overtake…and…recover all.”