Marketplace Meditations 12/23
December 23
Treasures in Darkness
Isaiah 45:3 I will give you the treasures of darkness, riches stored in secret places, so that you may know that I am the Lord, the God of Israel, who summons you by name.
"I have never been in this place before. It is new ground for me, and I find I am way out of my comfort zone. I am scared to death to trust Him at this level. I had to confess to the Lord I have not been able to accept or believe His love for me in this area." Those were the words I expressed to a friend when I was in a difficult place in my life. That day when I confessed those words, God led me to this passage of Scripture.
What we perceive as dark periods in our lives are designed to be treasures from God. They are actually riches stored in secret places. We cannot see those times in this light because of the often-accompanying pain or fear that prevents us from accepting these times as treasures. They have a particular purpose from God's viewpoint: "...so that you may know that I am the Lord...who summons you by name."
You see, unless we are cast into times in which we are completely at God's mercy for breakthroughs in our lives, we will never experience God's faithfulness in those areas. We will never know how personal He is, or that He can be trusted to meet the deepest needs in our lives. God wants each of us to know that we are "summoned by name." Every hair of our head is numbered. He knows every activity we are involved in. His love for you and me knows no bounds, and He will take every opportunity to demonstrate this to us.
Has God brought you into a place of darkness? Trust Him today to reveal that hidden treasure that can be found in this darkness. Let Him summon you by name.
Sunday, December 23, 2007
Saturday, December 22, 2007
The Value of a Humble Heart
In Touch - Dec. 22-23, 2007
In Touch Daily Devotional by Dr. Charles Stanley
December 22-23, 2007
– The Value of a Humble Heart – Luke 2:8-20
The Bible never grows old or stale. I find that verses I have studied 99 times yield fresh insights on the hundredth reading, which inspires me to keep meditating on the Word. In the account of Jesus’ birth, I discovered a principle that recurs frequently in Scripture: God often gives great revelations to those in lowly positions. A person’s worth before the Lord cannot be judged by his position, abilities, or popularity.
Since Mary and Joseph were both from common families, they probably seemed an unlikely choice for parents of the Messiah. Similarly, the men selected to receive the angelic announcement of Christ’s birth also lacked social standing—shepherds were considered part of the lowest class. Yet God revealed His plans to these individuals, not on the basis of worldly status, but because their heart attitude was right. The people He used were all humble followers who submitted to His will—whether the mission was bearing and protecting a young Jesus, or hurrying to worship Him where He lay in a manager.
When God guides us to take an important action, we might wonder why we have been chosen. We’re tempted to think, Surely He wants someone with better talent or more wisdom. In fact, many Bible characters, like Gideon and Moses, express that exact sentiment to the Lord (Judges 6:15; Exodus 3:11). But we can’t allow a sense of inadequacy to stand in the way of obedience. If God chooses us for a task, He will also give us the strength and wisdom to complete it. All we need is a willing and obedient spirit.
In Touch Daily Devotional by Dr. Charles Stanley
December 22-23, 2007
– The Value of a Humble Heart – Luke 2:8-20
The Bible never grows old or stale. I find that verses I have studied 99 times yield fresh insights on the hundredth reading, which inspires me to keep meditating on the Word. In the account of Jesus’ birth, I discovered a principle that recurs frequently in Scripture: God often gives great revelations to those in lowly positions. A person’s worth before the Lord cannot be judged by his position, abilities, or popularity.
Since Mary and Joseph were both from common families, they probably seemed an unlikely choice for parents of the Messiah. Similarly, the men selected to receive the angelic announcement of Christ’s birth also lacked social standing—shepherds were considered part of the lowest class. Yet God revealed His plans to these individuals, not on the basis of worldly status, but because their heart attitude was right. The people He used were all humble followers who submitted to His will—whether the mission was bearing and protecting a young Jesus, or hurrying to worship Him where He lay in a manager.
When God guides us to take an important action, we might wonder why we have been chosen. We’re tempted to think, Surely He wants someone with better talent or more wisdom. In fact, many Bible characters, like Gideon and Moses, express that exact sentiment to the Lord (Judges 6:15; Exodus 3:11). But we can’t allow a sense of inadequacy to stand in the way of obedience. If God chooses us for a task, He will also give us the strength and wisdom to complete it. All we need is a willing and obedient spirit.
Friday, December 21, 2007
Though Conditioner #7
THIS WEEK'S THOUGHT CONDITIONER:
Thought Conditioner No. 7
I am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly. John 10:10
Many people are lacking in energy. Their vitality is low. They are filled with inner conflicts which dissipate energy. They are dull and apathetic.
What is the secret of energized life? Christ is the answer. It is said of Him, “In Him was life” (John 1:4). Fill your mind with Christ, fill your heart with Him, and inevitably energy, vitality, exuberance, delight, and eagerness will well up within you.
Every day as you repeat this text make it read, “Christ has come that I (fill in your own name) might have life and might have it more abundantly.”
Thought Conditioner No. 7
I am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly. John 10:10
Many people are lacking in energy. Their vitality is low. They are filled with inner conflicts which dissipate energy. They are dull and apathetic.
What is the secret of energized life? Christ is the answer. It is said of Him, “In Him was life” (John 1:4). Fill your mind with Christ, fill your heart with Him, and inevitably energy, vitality, exuberance, delight, and eagerness will well up within you.
Every day as you repeat this text make it read, “Christ has come that I (fill in your own name) might have life and might have it more abundantly.”
Thursday, December 20, 2007
The Perfect Christmas Tree
There's a worship song we sing at church that goes, "Broken hearts and broken wings---somehow God uses broken things"-----I love that!---LL
HomeWord - Dec. 20, 2007
The Perfect Christmas Tree
This devotional was written by Kelly McFadden
But he said to me, "My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness." Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ's power may rest on me. That is why, for Christ's sake, I delight in weaknesses, in insults, in hardships, in persecutions, in difficulties. For when I am weak, then I am strong. 2 Corinthians 12:9-10
Each year in the mall near our home, a Christmas tree looms high above the department stores as a decoration and focal point for holiday celebrations. It is breathtaking. Of course, this tree gets a lot of help. In fact, to make sure the tree looks perfect and even from all sides, existing branches are cut off, extra ones are collected, and each branch is cut and trimmed. Then, holes are drilled in the tree trunk and extra branches are placed in just the right spots. The tree is made to look flawless.
When I think about the holiday season and the message of Christ, this mall has it all wrong. I think God looks at us more like Charlie Brown’s Christmas tree. You know the one I mean. A tree that is far from perfect: skimpy, left behind and unwanted. A tree that has lots of gaps in the branches and need extra help getting decorated.
God demonstrated his power in mighty ways through the Apostle Paul. The passage from 2 Corinthians records Paul’s requests to God to remove the afflictions he was facing, but God chose not to do so. God demonstrated His incredible power through Paul by working through Him even in the midst of His weaknesses. It is also these weaknesses that reminded Paul to rely on the Lord, for he knew he could not succeed without the power of God in his life.
It is tempting to rely on our own strength or think we can do everything on our own based on the talents, energy and effort we give to something. However, God wants us to realize instead that we need to rely on Him to be our strength. When we rely on Him, we will not only find ourselves stronger, but we will also continue to grow and move to deeper Christian character when we allow God’s strength to work in us. So when you face situations that are difficult and challenging, be encouraged. God will make His power perfect in you…just as you are, with flaws and all .
HomeWord - Dec. 20, 2007
The Perfect Christmas Tree
This devotional was written by Kelly McFadden
But he said to me, "My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness." Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ's power may rest on me. That is why, for Christ's sake, I delight in weaknesses, in insults, in hardships, in persecutions, in difficulties. For when I am weak, then I am strong. 2 Corinthians 12:9-10
Each year in the mall near our home, a Christmas tree looms high above the department stores as a decoration and focal point for holiday celebrations. It is breathtaking. Of course, this tree gets a lot of help. In fact, to make sure the tree looks perfect and even from all sides, existing branches are cut off, extra ones are collected, and each branch is cut and trimmed. Then, holes are drilled in the tree trunk and extra branches are placed in just the right spots. The tree is made to look flawless.
When I think about the holiday season and the message of Christ, this mall has it all wrong. I think God looks at us more like Charlie Brown’s Christmas tree. You know the one I mean. A tree that is far from perfect: skimpy, left behind and unwanted. A tree that has lots of gaps in the branches and need extra help getting decorated.
God demonstrated his power in mighty ways through the Apostle Paul. The passage from 2 Corinthians records Paul’s requests to God to remove the afflictions he was facing, but God chose not to do so. God demonstrated His incredible power through Paul by working through Him even in the midst of His weaknesses. It is also these weaknesses that reminded Paul to rely on the Lord, for he knew he could not succeed without the power of God in his life.
It is tempting to rely on our own strength or think we can do everything on our own based on the talents, energy and effort we give to something. However, God wants us to realize instead that we need to rely on Him to be our strength. When we rely on Him, we will not only find ourselves stronger, but we will also continue to grow and move to deeper Christian character when we allow God’s strength to work in us. So when you face situations that are difficult and challenging, be encouraged. God will make His power perfect in you…just as you are, with flaws and all .
Tuesday, December 18, 2007
Accepting God's assignments
Just the other day I was with some friends and this response of Mary's was brought up. Oh that I would be like her---praising the Lord and worshipping him and obeying!---LL
Encouragement for Today - Dec. 18, 2007
December 18, 2007
If You Choose to Accept This Assignment . . .
By Amy Carroll
‘“I am the Lord’s servant,’ Mary answered. ‘May it be to me as you have said.’ Then the angel left her.” Luke 1:38 (NIV)
Devotion:
How was Mary so accepting of her assignment from the Lord? There is no doubt that it was a glorious assignment. To carry the promised Messiah and raise Him as His mother was awe-inspiring; however, it came with tremendous personal cost. Jewish law demanded that women who became pregnant out of wedlock were to be stoned to death. Even though Joseph came to her rescue and did not end their betrothal, there were surely whispers and innuendos for the rest of her life.
In a beautiful scene in CS Lewis’ book The Horse and His Boy, Hwin, a wise horse in the story, faces a fierce lion. The lion, Aslan, is the perfect picture of the Lord in all His glory. Lewis’ characters often say of Aslan, “He’s not a tame Lion, but He is good.” The story continues like this: “Then Hwin, though shaking all over, gave a strange little neigh and trotted across to the Lion. ‘Please,’ she said, ‘you’re so beautiful. You may eat me if you like. I’d sooner be eaten by you than fed by anyone else.’” This little horse was consumed by a love and awe for Aslan that was so great that she knew Truth and inspiration in a flash.
Mary was able to be a willing servant because she knew Truth and was well acquainted with the greatness of the Master. Her praise of Him in Luke 1:46-55 displays the depth of her knowledge of Him. She praises Him as Savior, for His mindfulness of His children, as the Mighty One, for His mercy, for His power, as the mighty but compassionate King, as Provider and as the compassionate Lord of Israel. The One who gave the assignment was no stranger to Mary. Her heart of praise reveals her deep love and awe for Him.
God has an assignment for each of us, too. He created us with a purpose in mind and with good works for His children to perform. How do we respond to His assignments for us, especially if they involve personal cost? If we have invested our lives in knowing our Master, it will be much easier to be joyful servants. We will know that our highest good is linked to His glory. We’ll know that true personal loss comes in the form of disobedience to the Lord. We’ll remember that He is worthy and that serving Him is its own priceless reward.
There have been times that I’ve ignored His voice. Sometimes it was because of busyness. Sometimes I questioned whether it was His voice or my own I heard. Other times it was just outright disobedience. Every time I was left with regret and emptiness. He is so merciful, and He forgave me when I asked. He gently and faithfully restored me. I don’t want to miss any more opportunities to say “yes” to His assignment, so I’m fixing my eyes on Jesus. I want to know my Master so well that I hear His voice and follow Him into any assignment that He gives me. I want to become a maidservant to the Lord, just like Mary.
Dear Lord, You are worthy of my entire life and all of my devotion. Help me to hear and obey Your voice. I desire to joyfully accept every assignment that You have for my life. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
Encouragement for Today - Dec. 18, 2007
December 18, 2007
If You Choose to Accept This Assignment . . .
By Amy Carroll
‘“I am the Lord’s servant,’ Mary answered. ‘May it be to me as you have said.’ Then the angel left her.” Luke 1:38 (NIV)
Devotion:
How was Mary so accepting of her assignment from the Lord? There is no doubt that it was a glorious assignment. To carry the promised Messiah and raise Him as His mother was awe-inspiring; however, it came with tremendous personal cost. Jewish law demanded that women who became pregnant out of wedlock were to be stoned to death. Even though Joseph came to her rescue and did not end their betrothal, there were surely whispers and innuendos for the rest of her life.
In a beautiful scene in CS Lewis’ book The Horse and His Boy, Hwin, a wise horse in the story, faces a fierce lion. The lion, Aslan, is the perfect picture of the Lord in all His glory. Lewis’ characters often say of Aslan, “He’s not a tame Lion, but He is good.” The story continues like this: “Then Hwin, though shaking all over, gave a strange little neigh and trotted across to the Lion. ‘Please,’ she said, ‘you’re so beautiful. You may eat me if you like. I’d sooner be eaten by you than fed by anyone else.’” This little horse was consumed by a love and awe for Aslan that was so great that she knew Truth and inspiration in a flash.
Mary was able to be a willing servant because she knew Truth and was well acquainted with the greatness of the Master. Her praise of Him in Luke 1:46-55 displays the depth of her knowledge of Him. She praises Him as Savior, for His mindfulness of His children, as the Mighty One, for His mercy, for His power, as the mighty but compassionate King, as Provider and as the compassionate Lord of Israel. The One who gave the assignment was no stranger to Mary. Her heart of praise reveals her deep love and awe for Him.
God has an assignment for each of us, too. He created us with a purpose in mind and with good works for His children to perform. How do we respond to His assignments for us, especially if they involve personal cost? If we have invested our lives in knowing our Master, it will be much easier to be joyful servants. We will know that our highest good is linked to His glory. We’ll know that true personal loss comes in the form of disobedience to the Lord. We’ll remember that He is worthy and that serving Him is its own priceless reward.
There have been times that I’ve ignored His voice. Sometimes it was because of busyness. Sometimes I questioned whether it was His voice or my own I heard. Other times it was just outright disobedience. Every time I was left with regret and emptiness. He is so merciful, and He forgave me when I asked. He gently and faithfully restored me. I don’t want to miss any more opportunities to say “yes” to His assignment, so I’m fixing my eyes on Jesus. I want to know my Master so well that I hear His voice and follow Him into any assignment that He gives me. I want to become a maidservant to the Lord, just like Mary.
Dear Lord, You are worthy of my entire life and all of my devotion. Help me to hear and obey Your voice. I desire to joyfully accept every assignment that You have for my life. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
Monday, December 17, 2007
Making time to be in the Word
Such a great reminder and encouragement to begin my day and make time to be with the Lord--in prayer, in the Word, and in fellowship with Him. It's a discipline that only grows our love for the Lord----because when you spend time with Him, your relationship and love for Him grows! How beautiful!
December 17
Today's Reading:
Psalms 29-30; Acts 23:1-15
Today's Thoughts: Seek God First
But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you. Matthew 6:33
The devil will kill, steal and destroy any fruit of the Spirit in your day if you do not spend time with the Lord. The most important thing that allows us to live a victorious Christian life seems to be the hardest thing to maintain on a consistent basis. We have to understand that the power of the Holy Spirit is released by abiding in the Word. If the devil can keep you from opening the Word, you will be ineffective and have little peace in knowing the will of God. The Lord wants to instruct you and keep you in the way you should go; but if you cannot spend time with Him, He will not be able to lead you.
Repeatedly, the common excuse is that we are too busy. But by spending time with the Lord, He is then allowed in intervene in your life in such a way that gives you more time in your day. It is like tithing. You give and then you get. Time works the same way with the Lord.
No one was busier than Jesus. He had many things to do and many lessons to teach in a very short period of time. What did He do? Jesus made it a priority to spend time with the Father. He would rise early, before the dawn, just to pray. There was nothing that was more important, or as pressing as spending time with His Father. If Jesus needed to spend time alone with God, how much more do we need to spend time with Him? If the devil cannot make you bad, he will make you busy. Why? Because all those valuable things you are doing distracts you from the only thing that really matters for eternity. Even church-oriented events will not bear the fruit you are praying for without His counsel and His blessing.
Seek Him first - first thing in the morning, first before any plans are made and first in your thoughts and prayers. No other task can compare to finding God after seeking Him with your whole heart.
December 17
Today's Reading:
Psalms 29-30; Acts 23:1-15
Today's Thoughts: Seek God First
But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you. Matthew 6:33
The devil will kill, steal and destroy any fruit of the Spirit in your day if you do not spend time with the Lord. The most important thing that allows us to live a victorious Christian life seems to be the hardest thing to maintain on a consistent basis. We have to understand that the power of the Holy Spirit is released by abiding in the Word. If the devil can keep you from opening the Word, you will be ineffective and have little peace in knowing the will of God. The Lord wants to instruct you and keep you in the way you should go; but if you cannot spend time with Him, He will not be able to lead you.
Repeatedly, the common excuse is that we are too busy. But by spending time with the Lord, He is then allowed in intervene in your life in such a way that gives you more time in your day. It is like tithing. You give and then you get. Time works the same way with the Lord.
No one was busier than Jesus. He had many things to do and many lessons to teach in a very short period of time. What did He do? Jesus made it a priority to spend time with the Father. He would rise early, before the dawn, just to pray. There was nothing that was more important, or as pressing as spending time with His Father. If Jesus needed to spend time alone with God, how much more do we need to spend time with Him? If the devil cannot make you bad, he will make you busy. Why? Because all those valuable things you are doing distracts you from the only thing that really matters for eternity. Even church-oriented events will not bear the fruit you are praying for without His counsel and His blessing.
Seek Him first - first thing in the morning, first before any plans are made and first in your thoughts and prayers. No other task can compare to finding God after seeking Him with your whole heart.
Sunday, December 16, 2007
Thought Conditioner #6
THIS WEEK'S THOUGHT CONDITIONER:
Thought Conditioner No. 6
Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. Proverbs 3:5
This text will help you avoid a nervous breakdown. It will stimulate your recovery if you have had one.A famous neurologist, specialist in nervous breakdowns, often “prescribes” this text for his patients. He writes the words on a card and instructs his patients to commit them to memory and repeat them until they are indelibly printed on the subconscious mind.The cause of much nervous trouble is frustration. And the antidote to frustration is a calm faith, not in your own cleverness, or in hard toil, but in God’s guidance. The cure of frustration is the belief that God will help you obtain your heart’s desire. Trust in God with all your heart, and you will be able to keep on working in health and happiness for long years to come.
Thought Conditioner No. 6
Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. Proverbs 3:5
This text will help you avoid a nervous breakdown. It will stimulate your recovery if you have had one.A famous neurologist, specialist in nervous breakdowns, often “prescribes” this text for his patients. He writes the words on a card and instructs his patients to commit them to memory and repeat them until they are indelibly printed on the subconscious mind.The cause of much nervous trouble is frustration. And the antidote to frustration is a calm faith, not in your own cleverness, or in hard toil, but in God’s guidance. The cure of frustration is the belief that God will help you obtain your heart’s desire. Trust in God with all your heart, and you will be able to keep on working in health and happiness for long years to come.
Friday, December 14, 2007
Communicating Love to a Woman pt 3
I picked yesterday and today's devotional because "I" desire someone to communicate love to me! It kind of sucks being single and desiring affection and attention from the opposite sex-----a different kind of nurturing altogether. LIke the devotional says----we, (I) just want to know that we are special.----LL
Moments Together for Couples 12/14
by Dennis and Barbara Rainey
December 14
What Communicates Love to Women? (Part Three) by Barbara Rainey
The Song of Solomon 2:16 "My beloved is mine, and I am his."
Continuing my top 10 list of romantic things you can do for your wife:
5. Written notes, letters or cards. Recently, I was cleaning our bathroom and I found an old note from Dennis: "Have you found all your little notes around that say how much I love you?" He had once left notes like this all around the house, and I had a great time searching for them. I had taped this one on a closet wall in the bathroom just to remind me what a wonderful husband I had.
4. Going out on a date. Again, a date means time away, with no kids, just the two of you. A wife likes to be the focus of her husband's attention. She enjoys having a block of time where she has him all to herself.
3. Having special meals together. You can put the kids to bed a little early and have a quiet candlelight dinner at home. You can pick up your wife at her office at noon and take her for a short picnic.
2. Touch. I'm not talking about sexual touch here, but hugging, cuddling, caressing without expectation of a later payoff.
Many women never received much physical affection from their parents. So they grow up with a longing for physical touch, and if all they get from their husbands is touch that is tied to sex, they will begin thinking, He really doesn't love me that much. He just needs me for his own pleasure.
And finally we come to the end of my list:
1. Flowers. Many men never understand the power of flowers on women, and I'm not sure if I understand it myself. I think flowers say, "You are special." I think perhaps it's because flowers are so frivolous-they will wilt and die in a few days, but for that brief period of time you see a constant bright reminder that your husband loves you.
You'll note that a few themes run through this list: Women want to feel special. They want you to show love without an expectation of sex. For women, romance = relationship.
Prayer:
That God will enable you to keep romance alive in your marriage.
Discuss: Again, look through this list and ask your wife which items most communicate love to her. Talk about the equation: romance = relationship. Agree/disagree?
Moments Together for Couples 12/14
by Dennis and Barbara Rainey
December 14
What Communicates Love to Women? (Part Three) by Barbara Rainey
The Song of Solomon 2:16 "My beloved is mine, and I am his."
Continuing my top 10 list of romantic things you can do for your wife:
5. Written notes, letters or cards. Recently, I was cleaning our bathroom and I found an old note from Dennis: "Have you found all your little notes around that say how much I love you?" He had once left notes like this all around the house, and I had a great time searching for them. I had taped this one on a closet wall in the bathroom just to remind me what a wonderful husband I had.
4. Going out on a date. Again, a date means time away, with no kids, just the two of you. A wife likes to be the focus of her husband's attention. She enjoys having a block of time where she has him all to herself.
3. Having special meals together. You can put the kids to bed a little early and have a quiet candlelight dinner at home. You can pick up your wife at her office at noon and take her for a short picnic.
2. Touch. I'm not talking about sexual touch here, but hugging, cuddling, caressing without expectation of a later payoff.
Many women never received much physical affection from their parents. So they grow up with a longing for physical touch, and if all they get from their husbands is touch that is tied to sex, they will begin thinking, He really doesn't love me that much. He just needs me for his own pleasure.
And finally we come to the end of my list:
1. Flowers. Many men never understand the power of flowers on women, and I'm not sure if I understand it myself. I think flowers say, "You are special." I think perhaps it's because flowers are so frivolous-they will wilt and die in a few days, but for that brief period of time you see a constant bright reminder that your husband loves you.
You'll note that a few themes run through this list: Women want to feel special. They want you to show love without an expectation of sex. For women, romance = relationship.
Prayer:
That God will enable you to keep romance alive in your marriage.
Discuss: Again, look through this list and ask your wife which items most communicate love to her. Talk about the equation: romance = relationship. Agree/disagree?
Thursday, December 13, 2007
Communicating Love to a Woman
What Communicates Love to Women? (Part Two) by Barbara Rainey
The Song of Solomon 2:16 "My beloved is mine, and I am his."
As Dennis wrote in the last devotional, the best way to learn what says "I love you" to your wife is to ask her. But to give you a little more help, we surveyed 800 people at our FamilyLife Marriage Conferences. Here is our top 10 list, in reverse order, of what communicates romantic love to women.
10. Holding hands. To a woman, this simple act communicates closeness. It says, "I want to be close to you and I like you."
9. Massage. Many woman are reluctant to ask their husbands for foot rubs or back rubs because they know that most men tend to see massage as sexual foreplay. But women often enjoy massages with no strings attached.
8. Acts of servanthood and sacrifice. Sometimes it's as simple as opening the door for your wife or cleaning the dishes after dinner. When a husband denies himself, even in little ways, he tells her he cares about her and he wants to make her feel special.
7. A kiss. It's interesting that men ranked this higher than women. I suspect women would rank kissing higher if they didn't know from experience that their husbands usually don't want to stop with a kiss.
6. Taking a walk together. Again, this is not usually high on men's lists. It's very relational. When you go for a walk with your husband, you are taking a break from daily responsibilities and distractions. You're away from the telephone and the television, away from children, away from work. It allows you to focus on the relationship in a nonthreatening way.
After looking at this part of the list, I was struck with how God has made women different from one another. And how, as a woman, different things communicate romantic love to me at different times. But we all have one thing in common, we want to feel that our husbands love us.
Prayer:
That God would develop within you the desire to communicate love to your wife without any expectation of her response.
Discuss:
Look over this devotion with your wife and ask her, "Which of these items most communicate love to you?"
The Song of Solomon 2:16 "My beloved is mine, and I am his."
As Dennis wrote in the last devotional, the best way to learn what says "I love you" to your wife is to ask her. But to give you a little more help, we surveyed 800 people at our FamilyLife Marriage Conferences. Here is our top 10 list, in reverse order, of what communicates romantic love to women.
10. Holding hands. To a woman, this simple act communicates closeness. It says, "I want to be close to you and I like you."
9. Massage. Many woman are reluctant to ask their husbands for foot rubs or back rubs because they know that most men tend to see massage as sexual foreplay. But women often enjoy massages with no strings attached.
8. Acts of servanthood and sacrifice. Sometimes it's as simple as opening the door for your wife or cleaning the dishes after dinner. When a husband denies himself, even in little ways, he tells her he cares about her and he wants to make her feel special.
7. A kiss. It's interesting that men ranked this higher than women. I suspect women would rank kissing higher if they didn't know from experience that their husbands usually don't want to stop with a kiss.
6. Taking a walk together. Again, this is not usually high on men's lists. It's very relational. When you go for a walk with your husband, you are taking a break from daily responsibilities and distractions. You're away from the telephone and the television, away from children, away from work. It allows you to focus on the relationship in a nonthreatening way.
After looking at this part of the list, I was struck with how God has made women different from one another. And how, as a woman, different things communicate romantic love to me at different times. But we all have one thing in common, we want to feel that our husbands love us.
Prayer:
That God would develop within you the desire to communicate love to your wife without any expectation of her response.
Discuss:
Look over this devotion with your wife and ask her, "Which of these items most communicate love to you?"
Wednesday, December 12, 2007
God's Mysterious Dealings
Those are such sweet and scary times----when the Lord takes hold of you (and we need to let Him)----and re-shapes our little clay pots of our lives. ---LL
God's Mysterious Dealings
"Thou shalt shut the door upon thee and upon thy sons" (2 Kings 4:4).
They were to be alone with God, for they were not dealing with the laws of nature, nor human government, nor the church, nor the priesthood, nor even with the great prophet of God, but they must needs be isolated from all creatures, from all leaning circumstances, from all props of human reason, and swung off, as it were, into the vast blue inter-stellar space, hanging on God alone, in touch with the fountain of miracles.
Here is a part in the programme of God's dealings, a secret chamber of isolation in prayer and faith which every soul must enter that is very fruitful.
There are times and places where God will form a mysterious wall around us, and cut away all props, and all the ordinary ways of doing things, and shut us up to something Divine, which is utterly new and unexpected, something that old circumstances do not fit into, where we do not know just what will happen, where God is cutting the cloth of our lives on a new pattern, where He makes us look to Himself.
Most religious people live in a sort of treadmill life, where they can calculate almost everything that will happen, but the souls that God leads out into immediate and special dealings, He shuts in where all they know is that God has hold of them, and is dealing with them, and their expectation is from Him alone.
Like this widow, we must be detached from outward things and attached inwardly to the Lord alone in order to see His wonders. --Soul Food
In the sorest trials God often makes the sweetest discoveries of Himself. --Gems
"God sometimes shuts the door and shuts us in,That He may speak, perchance through grief or pain,And softly, heart to heart, above the din,May tell some precious thought to us again."
God's Mysterious Dealings
"Thou shalt shut the door upon thee and upon thy sons" (2 Kings 4:4).
They were to be alone with God, for they were not dealing with the laws of nature, nor human government, nor the church, nor the priesthood, nor even with the great prophet of God, but they must needs be isolated from all creatures, from all leaning circumstances, from all props of human reason, and swung off, as it were, into the vast blue inter-stellar space, hanging on God alone, in touch with the fountain of miracles.
Here is a part in the programme of God's dealings, a secret chamber of isolation in prayer and faith which every soul must enter that is very fruitful.
There are times and places where God will form a mysterious wall around us, and cut away all props, and all the ordinary ways of doing things, and shut us up to something Divine, which is utterly new and unexpected, something that old circumstances do not fit into, where we do not know just what will happen, where God is cutting the cloth of our lives on a new pattern, where He makes us look to Himself.
Most religious people live in a sort of treadmill life, where they can calculate almost everything that will happen, but the souls that God leads out into immediate and special dealings, He shuts in where all they know is that God has hold of them, and is dealing with them, and their expectation is from Him alone.
Like this widow, we must be detached from outward things and attached inwardly to the Lord alone in order to see His wonders. --Soul Food
In the sorest trials God often makes the sweetest discoveries of Himself. --Gems
"God sometimes shuts the door and shuts us in,That He may speak, perchance through grief or pain,And softly, heart to heart, above the din,May tell some precious thought to us again."
Friday, December 7, 2007
Nemo gospel
The Gospel According to Nemo
This devotional was written by Jim Liebelt
Suppose one of you had a hundred sheep and lost one. Wouldn’t you leave the ninety-nine in the wilderness and go after the lost one until you found it? Luke 15:4 (The Message)
With all of the junk the Hollywood movie industry throws our way, it is exciting when a movie comes along that is wholesome, demonstrates good morals and values and – isn’t cheesy. Putting aside my hesitancy to over spiritualize everything, I found that Finding Nemo, released in 2003, was both a great movie – and intentionally or unintentionally – shared the Gospel storyline to millions of people.
In a nutshell, Finding Nemo tells the story of two clown fish: Marlin (father) and Nemo (son). Nemo disobeys his father and ends up in a dentist office aquarium. Marlin, relentlessly seeks to find his son. The word of Marlin’s courageous journey to find Nemo (can you say “good news”?) spreads and eventually reaches Nemo. Nemo, compelled by the message of his father’s love and concern responds by taking a leap of faith – out of the aquarium – and down a drain that leads him back to the ocean and eventually to a happy reunion with his father.
Doesn’t this sound just like our own storyline with God? We have all disobeyed God. Yet God loves us and relentlessly pursues us – even to the extent of sending His son, Jesus – to die in our place - paying the penalty for our sins – so that we might be reunited with our Heavenly Father. By stepping out in faith – believing in God’s love for us demonstrated through Jesus – we are saved.
Why was Finding Nemo such a popular movie with adults? I believe it is because most everyone, regardless of age, is drawn into stories of heroic love – and a relentless pursuit of the beloved. Most everyone hopes that someone would love them enough to leave everything else behind in order to find them. And, as believers in Jesus, we know that we have that Someone. I enjoy having little opportunities along the way in my own journey of faith – that remind me of what God has done for me. In Finding Nemo, I found an unexpected reassurance of God’s great love for me. How about you?
Today, say thank you to God for his relentless love .
This devotional was written by Jim Liebelt
Suppose one of you had a hundred sheep and lost one. Wouldn’t you leave the ninety-nine in the wilderness and go after the lost one until you found it? Luke 15:4 (The Message)
With all of the junk the Hollywood movie industry throws our way, it is exciting when a movie comes along that is wholesome, demonstrates good morals and values and – isn’t cheesy. Putting aside my hesitancy to over spiritualize everything, I found that Finding Nemo, released in 2003, was both a great movie – and intentionally or unintentionally – shared the Gospel storyline to millions of people.
In a nutshell, Finding Nemo tells the story of two clown fish: Marlin (father) and Nemo (son). Nemo disobeys his father and ends up in a dentist office aquarium. Marlin, relentlessly seeks to find his son. The word of Marlin’s courageous journey to find Nemo (can you say “good news”?) spreads and eventually reaches Nemo. Nemo, compelled by the message of his father’s love and concern responds by taking a leap of faith – out of the aquarium – and down a drain that leads him back to the ocean and eventually to a happy reunion with his father.
Doesn’t this sound just like our own storyline with God? We have all disobeyed God. Yet God loves us and relentlessly pursues us – even to the extent of sending His son, Jesus – to die in our place - paying the penalty for our sins – so that we might be reunited with our Heavenly Father. By stepping out in faith – believing in God’s love for us demonstrated through Jesus – we are saved.
Why was Finding Nemo such a popular movie with adults? I believe it is because most everyone, regardless of age, is drawn into stories of heroic love – and a relentless pursuit of the beloved. Most everyone hopes that someone would love them enough to leave everything else behind in order to find them. And, as believers in Jesus, we know that we have that Someone. I enjoy having little opportunities along the way in my own journey of faith – that remind me of what God has done for me. In Finding Nemo, I found an unexpected reassurance of God’s great love for me. How about you?
Today, say thank you to God for his relentless love .
Wednesday, December 5, 2007
Hide and Seek
Moments Together for Couples 12/5
by Dennis and Barbara Rainey
December 5
Hide and Seek (Part Two)
Jeremiah 29:13 And you will seek Me and find Me, when you search for Me with all your heart.
In the previous devotion I spoke of hiding from God and each other. Why would anyone want to do this? Because we fear we'll be hurt. Intimate relationships can be painful.
No human relationship endures more hiding and hurting than marriage. It is within this most intimate of human associations that two people seek to know one another and be known. It is tragic that many people marry to stop being lonely, but soon find themselves lonelier than they were as singles.
I believe that 95 percent of all marriages suffer from isolation, and few people in marriage realize how desperately alone they really are. Often a husband and wife begin drifting apart so slowly that they hardly recognize the slide. Then, after a few years of hiding and poor communication, they realize that their once romantic love has grown stale. That's why many successful-looking marriages aren't much more than two successful people independently doing their own thing; they aren't friends and life-partners.
How do you defeat this drift to isolation?
I believe the most important thing you can do as a couple is to regularly pray together. Barbara and I began this spiritual discipline shortly after we were married in 1972, and I believe it's done more for our marriage than any other single thing. If there's a problem between us, we find that we either resolve the problem and pray, or go to sleep angry. Because of our commitment to end each day in prayer, we have learned to build bridges of understanding between us, forgive one another, and then pray.
Praying together keeps us from hiding from one another.
Prayer:
Take turns praying for one another before you go to sleep tonight. Ask God to help you develop this spiritual discipline in your relationship with Him and one another.
by Dennis and Barbara Rainey
December 5
Hide and Seek (Part Two)
Jeremiah 29:13 And you will seek Me and find Me, when you search for Me with all your heart.
In the previous devotion I spoke of hiding from God and each other. Why would anyone want to do this? Because we fear we'll be hurt. Intimate relationships can be painful.
No human relationship endures more hiding and hurting than marriage. It is within this most intimate of human associations that two people seek to know one another and be known. It is tragic that many people marry to stop being lonely, but soon find themselves lonelier than they were as singles.
I believe that 95 percent of all marriages suffer from isolation, and few people in marriage realize how desperately alone they really are. Often a husband and wife begin drifting apart so slowly that they hardly recognize the slide. Then, after a few years of hiding and poor communication, they realize that their once romantic love has grown stale. That's why many successful-looking marriages aren't much more than two successful people independently doing their own thing; they aren't friends and life-partners.
How do you defeat this drift to isolation?
I believe the most important thing you can do as a couple is to regularly pray together. Barbara and I began this spiritual discipline shortly after we were married in 1972, and I believe it's done more for our marriage than any other single thing. If there's a problem between us, we find that we either resolve the problem and pray, or go to sleep angry. Because of our commitment to end each day in prayer, we have learned to build bridges of understanding between us, forgive one another, and then pray.
Praying together keeps us from hiding from one another.
Prayer:
Take turns praying for one another before you go to sleep tonight. Ask God to help you develop this spiritual discipline in your relationship with Him and one another.
Tuesday, December 4, 2007
A Different Kind of Christmas
Oh Lord---help me "see" with Your eyes who I can be a blessing to. Help me to better love people in practical ways, special ways, and in encouragement---that they may seek You, the One who fills me with this love.--LL
Girlfriends in God - Dec. 4, 2007
December 4, 2007
A Different Kind of Christmas
Sharon Jaynes
Today’s Truth
“Give and it will be given to you. A good measure, pressed down, shaken together and running over, will be poured into your lap. For with the measure you use, it will be measure to you.” Luke 6:38 NIV
Friend to Friend
Of all the Christmases that Mike Wekall remembers, his seventh stands out from all the rest. Mike was the fifth of six Wekall children. Like every child, Mike met December with the anticipation of new toys, freshly baked goodies, glittering decorations, and school vacation. But one week before Christmas, Mike’s parents called the children into the den.
“Kids, I’ve have some bad news for you,” Mr. Wekall said, barely able to look his children in the eye. “As you know, things have been pretty tight at work this year. In fact, we are going to have to file bankruptcy, so we won’t have Christmas this year. I’m sorry. Maybe we can make it up to you next year.” Then he quietly walked out of the room.
The children just sat there for a while in silence. Mike thought to himself, “What does he mean ‘we won’t have Christmas’? Does that mean I’ve been bad and Santa isn’t going to come? And what is bankruptcy?”
It was a confusing time for little Mike, but one thing became perfectly clear on Christmas morning-Christmas had not come to the Wekall house. No presents were under a tree, and the aroma of a roasting turkey did not come from the kitchen. The family did, however, go off to church that crisp, cold morning. When they arrived at church, all the other children were sporting new clothes and chattering about what they had found under their trees.
“Hey, Mike, what’d you get?” one asked.
“Nothin’. We didn’t have Christmas at our house. We’re having a bankruptcy.”
“What’s wrong? Have you been too bad to get anything? Didn’t you even get a few switches?”
Feeling rather blue, the family of eight went home for a lunch of lima beans and hamhocs. About an hour later, the door bell rang. “Maybe it is Santa after all,” Mike thought as he ran to the door.
Standing in the doorway wasn’t Santa, but it was the Bosky family, all ten of them. Each of the eight children had smiles on their faces and two gifts in their hands. Mr. and Mrs. Bosky held a turkey dinner with all the trimmings.
As it turned out, the eight Bosky children went home from church and told their parents about how the Wekalls weren’t having Christmas this year. Seeing how they had been so richly blessed, the children decided to pick two of their toys and wrap them up for the Wekalls. Mom and Dad joined in and brought gifts for the parents. Even though Mrs. Bosky had Christmas dinner all choreographed for her own dining room, she gathered up the food in boxes and baskets to share with a family who needed it more.
That was over forty years ago, but Mike still gets tears in his eyes when he shares this story. “It was the best Christmas I have ever had,” he told me. “The Spirit of God showed me that Christmas wasn’t about getting presents but about giving and caring for others. It is about showing goodness toward other people. Every year, I tell this story to someone, because it exemplifies how Christ gave so freely of Himself for us.”
Let’s Pray
Dear Lord, I have so much and I am surrounded by people who have so little. Show me someone I can help this Christmas. Open the eyes of my heart to see the needs of others. Make me an extension of Your lavish love.
In Jesus’ Name,
Amen
Girlfriends in God - Dec. 4, 2007
December 4, 2007
A Different Kind of Christmas
Sharon Jaynes
Today’s Truth
“Give and it will be given to you. A good measure, pressed down, shaken together and running over, will be poured into your lap. For with the measure you use, it will be measure to you.” Luke 6:38 NIV
Friend to Friend
Of all the Christmases that Mike Wekall remembers, his seventh stands out from all the rest. Mike was the fifth of six Wekall children. Like every child, Mike met December with the anticipation of new toys, freshly baked goodies, glittering decorations, and school vacation. But one week before Christmas, Mike’s parents called the children into the den.
“Kids, I’ve have some bad news for you,” Mr. Wekall said, barely able to look his children in the eye. “As you know, things have been pretty tight at work this year. In fact, we are going to have to file bankruptcy, so we won’t have Christmas this year. I’m sorry. Maybe we can make it up to you next year.” Then he quietly walked out of the room.
The children just sat there for a while in silence. Mike thought to himself, “What does he mean ‘we won’t have Christmas’? Does that mean I’ve been bad and Santa isn’t going to come? And what is bankruptcy?”
It was a confusing time for little Mike, but one thing became perfectly clear on Christmas morning-Christmas had not come to the Wekall house. No presents were under a tree, and the aroma of a roasting turkey did not come from the kitchen. The family did, however, go off to church that crisp, cold morning. When they arrived at church, all the other children were sporting new clothes and chattering about what they had found under their trees.
“Hey, Mike, what’d you get?” one asked.
“Nothin’. We didn’t have Christmas at our house. We’re having a bankruptcy.”
“What’s wrong? Have you been too bad to get anything? Didn’t you even get a few switches?”
Feeling rather blue, the family of eight went home for a lunch of lima beans and hamhocs. About an hour later, the door bell rang. “Maybe it is Santa after all,” Mike thought as he ran to the door.
Standing in the doorway wasn’t Santa, but it was the Bosky family, all ten of them. Each of the eight children had smiles on their faces and two gifts in their hands. Mr. and Mrs. Bosky held a turkey dinner with all the trimmings.
As it turned out, the eight Bosky children went home from church and told their parents about how the Wekalls weren’t having Christmas this year. Seeing how they had been so richly blessed, the children decided to pick two of their toys and wrap them up for the Wekalls. Mom and Dad joined in and brought gifts for the parents. Even though Mrs. Bosky had Christmas dinner all choreographed for her own dining room, she gathered up the food in boxes and baskets to share with a family who needed it more.
That was over forty years ago, but Mike still gets tears in his eyes when he shares this story. “It was the best Christmas I have ever had,” he told me. “The Spirit of God showed me that Christmas wasn’t about getting presents but about giving and caring for others. It is about showing goodness toward other people. Every year, I tell this story to someone, because it exemplifies how Christ gave so freely of Himself for us.”
Let’s Pray
Dear Lord, I have so much and I am surrounded by people who have so little. Show me someone I can help this Christmas. Open the eyes of my heart to see the needs of others. Make me an extension of Your lavish love.
In Jesus’ Name,
Amen
Monday, December 3, 2007
Super Mom Has Left the Building
I picked this devotional today because I soooo struggle with my drive to complete my never-ending to-do list. I get frustrated when I hit road bumps, although I have come a LONG way and have become much more flexible with the curveballs of life. But I like the reminder of Mary's response to what the angel told her---"May it be to me as you have said." The Lord has me where He wants me---and He is the one who should fill my calendar. I will seek Him today and each day. ---LL
December 3, 2007
Super Mom Has Left the Building
By Marybeth Whalen
“It is for freedom that Christ has set us free. Stand firm, then, and do not let yourselves be burdened again by a yoke of slavery.” Galatians 5:1 (NIV)
Devotion:
I just have to insert something in the midst of this busy season we call Christmas:
“You can’t do it all.”
And I don’t think I can say that enough.
I found this entry in my journal from years ago, and I thought you might like to read it…
Someday…
I’ll remember to order those cute Christmas return address labels for my cards.
I’ll bake real gingerbread houses like Martha Stewart instead of buying those cheap, cheesy kits.
I’ll finish my shopping early instead of waiting to the last minute.
I’ll hand make gifts for all our neighbors, teachers, postal carriers, and garbage men.
I’ll wrap presents that look like the ones in the magazines, not like a kindergartner did it.
I’ll actually do all those service projects that look like a worthy thing to do.
Someday… is not now.
Whatever season in life you are in this Christmas, embrace it. There will be other times to do all those things you want to do. Or not. Whatever your situation is, trust that God is sovereign and He ordained for you to be where you are at this time, for His purpose. There is something to be gained from every season in life. The trick is to find that piece of wisdom God has for you in the midst of each season.
When the angel appeared to Mary, he told her some pretty shocking news about what was going to happen to her. His message ushered her into a season in life that included confusion, rejection and some pretty extreme transition. And yet, her response was “May it be to me as you have said” (Luke 1:38).
I want Mary’s reaction to be my own reaction. I want my attitude to be one of complete surrender to God’s will, no matter what the circumstances. I want to be able to say with confidence “May it be to me as you have said” instead of whining to God, “Why did you let this happen to me?” like I usually do.
The first step in embracing every season is to let go of our own expectations—even when it means learning to love our limitations. Whether you are struggling with illness, or lack of energy, or a marriage situation, or money problems, or family issues—whatever it is, that is where God has you. Stop trying to be Super Mom or Super Woman and trust a super God instead.
Dear Lord, help me see You this Christmas. Help me keep my focus on You and not on my to-do list. And would you please remind me when I forget that You love me not because of what I accomplish but because I am, simply, Your child? In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
December 3, 2007
Super Mom Has Left the Building
By Marybeth Whalen
“It is for freedom that Christ has set us free. Stand firm, then, and do not let yourselves be burdened again by a yoke of slavery.” Galatians 5:1 (NIV)
Devotion:
I just have to insert something in the midst of this busy season we call Christmas:
“You can’t do it all.”
And I don’t think I can say that enough.
I found this entry in my journal from years ago, and I thought you might like to read it…
Someday…
I’ll remember to order those cute Christmas return address labels for my cards.
I’ll bake real gingerbread houses like Martha Stewart instead of buying those cheap, cheesy kits.
I’ll finish my shopping early instead of waiting to the last minute.
I’ll hand make gifts for all our neighbors, teachers, postal carriers, and garbage men.
I’ll wrap presents that look like the ones in the magazines, not like a kindergartner did it.
I’ll actually do all those service projects that look like a worthy thing to do.
Someday… is not now.
Whatever season in life you are in this Christmas, embrace it. There will be other times to do all those things you want to do. Or not. Whatever your situation is, trust that God is sovereign and He ordained for you to be where you are at this time, for His purpose. There is something to be gained from every season in life. The trick is to find that piece of wisdom God has for you in the midst of each season.
When the angel appeared to Mary, he told her some pretty shocking news about what was going to happen to her. His message ushered her into a season in life that included confusion, rejection and some pretty extreme transition. And yet, her response was “May it be to me as you have said” (Luke 1:38).
I want Mary’s reaction to be my own reaction. I want my attitude to be one of complete surrender to God’s will, no matter what the circumstances. I want to be able to say with confidence “May it be to me as you have said” instead of whining to God, “Why did you let this happen to me?” like I usually do.
The first step in embracing every season is to let go of our own expectations—even when it means learning to love our limitations. Whether you are struggling with illness, or lack of energy, or a marriage situation, or money problems, or family issues—whatever it is, that is where God has you. Stop trying to be Super Mom or Super Woman and trust a super God instead.
Dear Lord, help me see You this Christmas. Help me keep my focus on You and not on my to-do list. And would you please remind me when I forget that You love me not because of what I accomplish but because I am, simply, Your child? In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
Saturday, December 1, 2007
Striving vs. Abiding
I was struck by the comment that our outcomes are based on our obedience. Wow----I know I strive----when I need to simply obey what the Lord is speaking into me. --LL
Marketplace Meditations 12/1
December 1Striving Versus Abiding
Psalms 127:1 Unless the Lord builds the house, its builders labor in vain.
What does it mean for the Lord to build the house? It almost seems a contradiction when we consider that we might be the builders in this passage. God wants us to allow Him to build the house. He explains further:
Unless the Lord builds the house, its builders labor in vain. Unless the Lord watches over the city, the watchmen stand guard in vain. In vain you rise early and stay up late, toiling for food to eat-for He grants sleep to those He loves (Psalm 127:1-2).
God is telling us there is a way of working without striving. There is a way to conduct business without sweating and toiling for outcome. His warning to each of us is to avoid thinking that outcome is based on our sweat and toil. Outcome is based on obedience. That outcome is sometimes more than we deserve. Sometimes it is less than we hoped for. His desire for each of us is to see Him working in our daily work life. He wants us to avoid looking to our own effort to gain an outcome.
One day Jesus called out to Peter from the shore of the lake and suggested he throw his net on the other side of the boat. It was this simple act of obedience that yielded a tremendous catch that he would not have received unless he obeyed.
We are called to work; He is called to bring forth the fruit. He is the vine. We are the branches. Fruit comes forth naturally from a healthy tree.
Today, ask God to show you when you enter into striving. Ask Him to show you the difference between loving trust and obedience and striving for outcome. It can be challenging for us to balance this in our daily work experience. He wants to help us walk in this freedom and rest.
Marketplace Meditations 12/1
December 1Striving Versus Abiding
Psalms 127:1 Unless the Lord builds the house, its builders labor in vain.
What does it mean for the Lord to build the house? It almost seems a contradiction when we consider that we might be the builders in this passage. God wants us to allow Him to build the house. He explains further:
Unless the Lord builds the house, its builders labor in vain. Unless the Lord watches over the city, the watchmen stand guard in vain. In vain you rise early and stay up late, toiling for food to eat-for He grants sleep to those He loves (Psalm 127:1-2).
God is telling us there is a way of working without striving. There is a way to conduct business without sweating and toiling for outcome. His warning to each of us is to avoid thinking that outcome is based on our sweat and toil. Outcome is based on obedience. That outcome is sometimes more than we deserve. Sometimes it is less than we hoped for. His desire for each of us is to see Him working in our daily work life. He wants us to avoid looking to our own effort to gain an outcome.
One day Jesus called out to Peter from the shore of the lake and suggested he throw his net on the other side of the boat. It was this simple act of obedience that yielded a tremendous catch that he would not have received unless he obeyed.
We are called to work; He is called to bring forth the fruit. He is the vine. We are the branches. Fruit comes forth naturally from a healthy tree.
Today, ask God to show you when you enter into striving. Ask Him to show you the difference between loving trust and obedience and striving for outcome. It can be challenging for us to balance this in our daily work experience. He wants to help us walk in this freedom and rest.
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