Archive for February, 2011

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Sabbath Rest

Monday, February 28th, 2011

My life is not what some might consider “normal.” Take this weekend, for instance. My husband and I were at Missions Fest Alberta in Edmonton. Among other assignments, we manned our International Messengers booth on Friday and Saturday. On Sunday morning, we spoke at a church about 1 ½ hours’ drive from the conference venue. Then we returned to our booth where we talked with attendees until 5:30. That’s when the exhibition hall closed and we packed up our banners and brochures. Two flights and several hours later, we rolled into our own bed, exhausted.

Working weekends is what we do. If I’m not involved in ministry directly related to International Messengers, then I’m often speaking at a retreat somewhere and traveling home in the late afternoon or evening. However, when Monday morning dawns, my to-do list is waiting for me. Upcoming speaking engagements need my attention. So does the new DVD and study guide project. Book proposals wait to be penned. And then there’s the follow-up for people who have expressed an interest in summer ministry trips. And what about laundry, grocery shopping, housecleaning, and spending time with my kids and grandbabies?

Our ministry is expanding. Without a doubt, it could consume me. It would be easy to work seven days a week. In fact, I’ve been guilty of doing so. I’ve had good intentions of taking off a complete day mid-week to rest, but I’ve not been successful in pulling it off. I’ve struggled with a nagging fear that someone or something will fall between the cracks. Heaven forbid, something will be left undone and ministry will falter. But today I’m facing that fear.

I’m acknowledging that refusing to stop for one day is disobedience to God’s command for Sabbath rest (Leviticus 23:3 for one). It’s evidence that I’m depending on my own strength to accomplish ministry, and I want no part of that. And so, I’m making changes. They might take a few weeks to fully implement, and they might have to be flexible especially when we’re overseas for several weeks and taking a day to rest simply isn’t possible. They might even mean not writing a Monday blog once in a while. Regardless, I’m going to ask God to help me honor His command. After all, it’s for my own good. This is tough for me, considering my personality, but I’m looking forward to seeing how God will grant me wisdom and success in this endeavor.

How about you? What insights do you have about taking a Sabbath rest? If anyone out there has an abnormal schedule like mine, what advice can you offer?

 Image: Sura Nualpradid / FreeDigitalPhotos.net

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A Little Feeds a Lot

Friday, February 25th, 2011

Five thousand men and their families mingled in a remote place where they’d gathered to listen to Jesus teach. As the day drew to a close, the disciples urged Jesus to shoo the people away to nearby farms and villages where they could buy food. Jesus wouldn’t hear of it. “You feed them,” He said.

“You must be joking,” the disciples answered. “With what? It would take months to earn enough money to buy food for this crowd.” Jesus could not be deterred. “How much bread do you have?” He asked. “Go and find out.”

The disciples did exactly as He said. Before long, they returned with their answer: “Five loaves of bread and two fish” (Mark 6:38).

Anyone could see that five loaves and two fish wouldn’t feed 5,000 men plus their wives and kids. Anyone, that is, except Jesus. He always saw life through a unique lens, and this scenario was no exception. He instructed the disciples to seat the people in an orderly fashion, and then He took the loaves and fish, blessed them, and broke them into bite-sized pieces for distribution.

Whadya know? Everyone enjoyed their fill and, unlike potlucks where the food sometimes runs out before everyone’s had their turn at the table, there were 12 baskets of leftovers.

I smile every time I read this story because it reminds me of God’s ability to do the miraculous.. It also reminds me of my early writing days. I used to walk a long stretch of road every morning near our home, and I’d pray, “God, I believe You’ve called me to write. I haven’t got a clue what I’m doing, but I’ll do my best to learn and then apply what I’ve learned. Take my little loaves and fish, bless them, and break them, and feed hungry hearts.”

At first I asked God to satisfy hundreds with my words. Then one day, I thought, Why settle for mere hundreds? Why not thousands? And so I stepped up my prayers a notch. A few weeks later, I thought, Why only thousands? Why not millions? Surely there are millions of people in the world who could use a dash of hope and encouragement. And so I stepped up my prayers another notch.

God answered my simple request within months. He took my meager but sincere efforts, blessed them, broke them into bite-sized pieces, and distributed them to millions via magazine articles. Imagine that! He’s still in the miracle-working business after all.

Each time He calls me to a new venture, I feel like the disciples might have felt when they handed five loaves and two fish to Jesus. The task appeared daunting and the supplies seemed ridiculously inadequate. But Jesus didn’t seem to notice. Both then and now, He simply used what was available and got the job done.

What task seems daunting to you today? Give Jesus your five loaves and two fish and ask Him to bless them for His purposes. Then stand back and watch Him work, my friend. Be prepared for a miracle.

Image: Paul / FreeDigitalPhotos.net

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The Fear of Failure

Wednesday, February 23rd, 2011

A friend recently gave me a greeting card that read, “Attempt something large enough that failure is guaranteed unless God steps in.” I smiled when I read it because it describes the way I’ve chosen to live: I want to attempt God-directed assignments that are ‘way beyond my own capabilities, for in doing so, my faith is forced to grow. Trouble is, every such assignment also forces me to look the fear of failure in the face.

 

In 2010, the DVD and study guide resource to accompany Moving from Fear to Freedom was my “something” that guaranteed failure unless God stepped in. Some days I felt like I’d stepped off a cliff.  I knew beyond a doubt that God had orchestrated every detail, but still, the fear of failure loomed large. Time after time, I had to intentionally choose to continue moving forward albeit on my knees, focusing on God’s character with every step.

In 2011, it appears that God has given me another “something” that guarantees failure unless He steps in. This one takes me into the corporate world. When God first began dropping clues about this assignment in late 2009, I said yes and began learning the necessary skills. Step by step, I followed where I sensed Him directing me. Now the path is becoming more defined. If I’m correctly interpreting His guidance, then I must begin making concrete commitments such as booking a facility, hiring a graphic artist, networking with business women, and more. The fear of failure glares at me and asks, “What if your so-called project flops? What if no one registers? What if you invest money and see no return? Worse yet, you take a financial nosedive?”

I hear the voice of fear and must intentionally choose to disregard it. I must continue moving forward on my knees, once again focusing on God’s character with every step. I find encouragement in Jesus’ words to the disciples: “Don’t be afraid. Take courage! I am here!” (Mark 6:50). God’s presence is my only hope. If He’s going before me, as I truly believe He is, then all will be well even if things aren’t stamped a success by the world’s standards.

How about you? What are your thoughts about attempting something large enough that failure is guaranteed unless God steps in? What promise gives you courage to move forward?

 Image: Andy Newson / FreeDigitalPhotos.net

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What do Animal Sacrifices Have to do With Me?

Monday, February 21st, 2011

Truth be told, Old Testament readings about animal sacrifices don’t “do” much for me. I tend to whiz my way through these passages in hopes that the day’s New Testament, Psalms, and Proverbs readings will give me something more relevant to day-to-day life. After all, what do sin, burnt, and fellowship sacrifices have to do with my marriage and family life? Or the integrity with which I do business? Or my attitude toward someone who irritates me?

Turns out, the Old Testament sacrifices have a lot to do with me. Yesterday I heard a fantastic sermon that helped me understand. Here’s a brief summary:

  • Sin offering – This was a mandatory offering representing Christ’s death on my behalf. I must trust Him as my Savior in order to experience salvation – that’s mandatory.
  • Burnt offering – This was a voluntary offering. It represents complete surrender to Christ’s lordship, which is optional for believers. God wants us to be totally devoted to Him but He’s not going to force us. 
  • Fellowship offering – This represents restoration of community and communication, healthy relationship with other believers.

As I read through the Old Testament, I stand amazed at how God provided visuals for the people so they could accurately understand His truths then and now. Pretty smart Guy, He was and is.  Here’s a link to the sermon which contains some great material. Take a listen!

http://bethelchurchmedia.org/sermonstuff/2011/2011-02-20.mp3

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Scripture — the Key to Confident Prayers

Friday, February 18th, 2011

Cancer has struck at least a dozen of my friends and family members since last fall. This week it returned with vengeance in yet another friend’s body. When will it end? Every night I pray for these people by name, asking God to grant strength and healing to their bodies and their emotions. I also pray that God will grant their loved ones strength and peace for the journey.

Sometimes, when I hear or read about other people’s difficult circumstances, I simply don’t know how to pray. That’s when I find confidence in using the Scriptures as my basis for intercession. Here’s one example:

A woman I know has been falsely accused of something she didn’t do. Psalm 36 provides a wonderful prayer on her behalf…

“Father, Your unfailing love is as vast as the heavens and Your faithfulness reaches beyond the clouds. Your righteousness is like the mighty mountains and Your justice like the ocean depths. Please pour out Your unfailing love on ________ because she loves You. Give justice to her because her heart is honest. Don’t let the proud trample her or the wicked push her around. Rush to her rescue and show Yourself strong on her behalf. May she find shelter in the shadow of Your wings. In Jesus’ name, Amen.” (Psa. 36 NLT)

Praying Scripture isn’t like rubbing a genie bottle and automatically receiving the answer I want. But so long as I’m not taking God’s words out of context, praying them gives me confidence that I’m asking something according to His will. I know He hears and will answer in His way and time.

I’m currently facing some major decisions regarding writing and speaking. They’re all good. In fact, they’re quite exciting, but they all require taking a risk. My prayer for this is simple: “Father, I commit all the details of these potential projects to You, and I trust You to help me. Thank You for promising to do so as I seek to follow Your direction and do things Your way” (Psalm 37:5). I’m amazed at how those words calm my pounding heart.

QUESTION: How have you applied Scripture to prayer?

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What Makes Believers Different?

Wednesday, February 16th, 2011

Scripture says Jesus’ followers are supposed to be salt and light, right? How does that happen? Here’s my two cents’ worth:

God’s presence is the key that sets us apart from the rest of the world. His Holy Spirit lives in us 24/7. If we allow Him full control, then He fills us with peace, patience, joy, gentleness, love, and wisdom. He teaches us how to behave in a people-respecting and God-honoring manner.

Practically speaking, that means we don’t yell and stamp our feet or slam the door behind us when we don’t get our own way. We don’t cheat on our income taxes. We stay true to our spouse. We turn off the TV when it’s broadcasting smut. Get the picture? God’s presence in us is supposed to make us different than the average Joe. But I think there’s more.

I believe His presence produces courage in us. Whether facing personal problems or global crisis, followers of Christ can emulate confidence. That doesn’t mean we never feel afraid, but it means we know how to deal with the fear when it strikes and we refuse to let it consume us.

When people look at us, they see something different – or at least they should! They ought to see character qualities and inner strength that attract them and cannot be counterfeited.

“For your presence among us sets your people and me apart from all other people on the earth,” said Moses (Exodus 33:16). I think he’s right. How about you?

 Question: How do you think God’s presence sets His people apart from all others on the earth?

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Fickle or Faithful?

Monday, February 14th, 2011

I’ll always remember celebrating Valentine’s Day in fourth grade. That was the year I had an over-sized crush on brown-eyed, freckle-faced Freddy. So did all the other females in my class, for that matter. Poor Freddy. While the other boys played tetherball and baseball during recess, he dashed ‘round and ‘round the school yard, chased by a pack of giggling girls.

I knew the competition was fierce for Freddy’s affection, but I figured I’d won the contest when he handed me a Valentine that read, “I’m not clowning around. I love you.” My bubble burst a few minutes later when my best friend whispered, “Look at my Valentine from Freddy!” I could scarcely believe my eyes. “I’m not clowning around. I love you,” it said.

Freddy’s mom must have purchased a multi-pack of the thing, because every girl in the class received the same message. It was the boy’s undoing: The fourth-grade females’ feelings for freckle-faced Freddy fizzled on February 14th. (Say THAT while munching on a mouthful of dry crackers!)

I’m afraid Freddy knew nothin’ about true love. Neither did I, nor did the other girls in the class. Call us fickle. Freddy fell off our emotional radar as fast as ice cream melts on a sizzling summer day, and we moved on to better-looking ventures.

Time has passed, and thankfully I’ve learned a few things about love since then. Perhaps the best insight I’ve gleaned so far is that of God’s unfailing love. It’s far from fickle; it’s faithful to the utmost degree. He’ll never, ever turn off His affection for us. Psalm 23:6 says it all: “Surely your goodness and unfailing love will pursue me all the days of my life, and I will live in the house of the LORD forever.”

As long as we live, God will pursue us with His love. He’s promised that no matter what life brings our way, His love for us will remain active and strong. Let’s ask Him to open our hearts and reveal to us what that really means.

Question: Do you have a favorite verse about God’s love? If so, what is it?

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Taking Time to Pause and Ponder God’s Promises

Friday, February 11th, 2011

This week I escaped with my husband for a three-day retreat at our favorite getaway. We needed a break because our ministry schedule has kept us going non-stop for months and the pace is about to step up another notch. Besides, our 29th wedding anniversary is this month and our tradition is to celebrate with time alone, away from emails and phone calls.

Today I woke early, brewed a cup of coffee, wrapped myself in a duvet, and settled on the couch. Normally I rise early, have my quiet time with the Lord, and then dash off to the gym. But this morning was void of rush. I basked in the silence and watched the sky turn pink. As dawn broke, I marveled at multiple varieties of seabirds bobbing on the saltwater a few metres from our cabin. And I meditated on God’s grandeur and goodness.

This moment was truly one to savor. If I could summarize it in few words, I’d say I felt surrounded by God’s presence in this place. How affirming to find my feelings validated when I opened the Word and read the following verses:

“For you are my hiding place; you protect me from trouble. You surround me with songs of victory. The LORD says, ‘I will guide you along the best pathway for your life. I will advise you and watch over you…Many sorrows come to the wicked, but unfailing love surrounds those who trust the LORD” (Psalm 32:7,8,10).

Sometimes busyness can cause us to forget, overlook, or take for granted God’s active presence in our lives. We know He’s with us, but we forget to what extent. I’m thankful for an opportunity such as this to pause and ponder His promises. When I leave this place tomorrow, I’ll head home refreshed and encouraged, reminded that God surrounds me no matter where I go from here or what the future holds.

How about you? Have you had a chance recently to pause and ponder God’s promises? If so, what did He say to you?

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An Invitation You Don’t Want to Refuse

Wednesday, February 9th, 2011

Think of someone you regard in high esteem. Someone you admire, perhaps from a distance. Maybe you’ve never met this person but you know of her through media or by word-of-mouth. Now suppose she phones or emails you one day. “I’ve heard about you,” she says. “I’d love to get to know you. Can we meet for a chat?”

How will you respond? The answer’s a no-brainer. Your schedule might be booked, but you’ll gladly rearrange to spend time with this person. You know that making the effort will enrich your life, and you wouldn’t miss this opportunity for anything.

Guess what? Such an invitation has come, and it’s from someone far better than a mere mortal. It comes from the God of the universe! He invites us to be friends with Him, as seen in Psalm 27:8 which says, “My heart has heard you say, ‘Come and talk with me.’”

Imagine receiving an invite from God to spend time with Him. To chat with Him as a friend. To confide our secrets, our dreams, our desires. To express our joys and tell Him our woes.

How will you respond? Hopefully you won’t say, “Sorry, I’m too busy. Now’s not a convenient time.” Hopefully you’ll reply as the Psalmist did: “My heart responds, ‘LORD, I am coming.’”

Personally, I’ve responded to His invitation by rising early to spend time with Him every morning. I wouldn’t miss it for anything. It sets the tone for my entire day and fills me up so I can pour out. How about you? If you’ve accepted God’s invitation to spend time with Him, what does that look like for you?

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If You Could Pray for Only One Thing

Monday, February 7th, 2011

The preschooler ripped the wrapping from her Christmas presents and squealed with delight at the contents. “Thank you, thank you, Mommy!” she cried. Then she looked at her mother with wide eyes. “Is there more?”

Many big girls ask the same question. Take Eve, for instance. God had already given her a long list of gifts: a perfect husband, a fail-proof marriage, the pleasure of living in a botanical garden, and everything physical needed to thrive. Best of all, He’d favored her with His presence. Yes, it seemed that creation’s First Lady had everything, but still she yearned for more.

We tsk-tsk Eve for her behavior, but we often play copycat. God has already given us so much and yet we yearn for more money, bigger homes, fewer pounds, nicer kids, better spouses, and greater success. Our prayers are riddled with requests.

In her book Women on the Edge, Cindi McMenamin says she recently took her “shopping list” to God in prayer. Reciting one need after another exhausted her. Later that morning, she read Psalm 27:4—“One thing I ask of the LORD; this is what I seek: That I may dwell in the house of the LORD all the days of my life, to gaze upon the beauty of the LORD and to seek him in his temple.”

“There were lots of things I was asking of God that morning. But the psalmist asked for only one thing: to dwell in God’s presence, seeking His face and glory,” writes McMenamin. “I realized that if seeking God had been my one request—my only request—I would not have needed anything else I’d been praying for.”

McMenamin says, “When God becomes my Sole Desire, I am able to face whatever comes my way. Jesus said, ‘Seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well (Matthew 6:33).

“The rest of my prayer that morning became this: Simplify my heart, Lord, to have just one request: To know You and dwell with You intimately.”

McMenamin’s honesty challenges me to examine my heart. How about you? If you were allowed only one request in your prayers, what would it be—“God, please give me more _______,” or “God, please grant my desire to know You more intimately”?

As we begin a new year, let’s learn from McMenamin’s testimony and the psalmist’s example. It’s true that God invites us to bring our requests before Him, but let’s ensure that our primary yearning is to know Him. When that’s our heart’s desire, everything else falls into place.

(Reprinted from January’s issue of “Growing With Grace,” my free monthly online newsletter. You can subscribe at www.gracefox.com).

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