But immediately Jesus spoke to them, saying, "Take heart; it is I. Do not be afraid." And Peter answered him, "Lord, if it is you, command me to come to you on the water." He said, "Come." So Peter got out of the boat and walked on the water and came to Jesus. But when he saw the wind, he was afraid, and beginning to sink he cried out, "Lord, save me."Jesus immediately reached out his hand and took hold of him, saying to him, "O you of little faith, why did you doubt?"And when they got into the boat, the wind ceased. And those in the boat worshiped him, saying, "Truly you are the Son of God." Matthew 14:28-33
And Jesus being who he is granted Peter's request, saying "come." I wonder what was going through Peter's mind at that exact moment? Was he scared, excited, hopeful, or all the above? Whatever he was feeling inspired him enough to step out of the boat and into what seemed like, an impossible situation. Peter didn't just step out of the boat, but he was propelled forward. With each step he got closer and closer to Jesus, until finally reaching him. Who knows the distance between the two, or the time it took, but Peter made it to Jesus (the vision, his destination).
However the story goes on to say, "but when he saw the wind, he was afraid, and beginning to sink he cried out, "Lord, save me." Matthew 14:30 Maybe it was a strong gust of wind, one big enough to sway the trees in the distance, or maybe it was only strong enough to blow up some dust on the shore. Regardless Peter didn't have to feel the wind, he just saw it, and that was enough to distract him and cause anxiety. After all who knows what those winds were blowing in. Peter, starting to sink cried out, " Lord save me." Again, Jesus grants Peter's request and immediately reached out his hand and took hold of him, saying "o you of little faith, why did you doubt." and when they got into the boat the wind ceased. Matthew 14:31-32
There have been so many times when I've asked God to affirm himself to me, to give me direction, instruction, and He has been faithful to do so every time. I can believe and trust him for a time after, but then I allow the wind(distractions, worries, anxiety, and my logic) to create doubt, which immediately draws my gaze and focus from him, to self reliance. My blurred vision of him then compels me to figure out how I can be the hero in my own life. How can I make this, or that happen on my own if you don't come through? What are my strengths and weaknesses? Flooded with questions paralytic fear sets in and I believe the lie. I will not make it, I will not survive if this storm comes. And because I'm trusting in myself and my own ability I start to sink.
But God is always faithful to answer my cry when I call, and because of who he is, he comes to us in a direct course to our rescue. Like Peter I have no reason to doubt. He has provided me with everything I've needed, and not just me, but those around me. I've experienced Him be a Father to others as well as myself and yet there's still doubt. Peter just before walking on water to Jesus witnessed him feeding the five thousand out of only five loaves of bread and two fish. Matthew 14:17. So Peter just like I knew what Jesus could do. He'd seen and experienced it. I believe and am learning that the only way to triumph over doubt is to press on through it. What I mean by pressing on, is keeping our eyes fixed on Jesus. Not allowing doubts to create a chasm between us and the Savior. This chasm: those distractions that lead to doubt, have one purpose and that is to deter us away from the Holy Vision. It's important to remember that it wasn't Satan that caused the fall. He was only a catalyst, but the fall was caused by our doubt. Genesis 3:1-3
Helen H. Lemmel once wrote " Turn your eyes upon Jesus, look full in his wonderful face and the things of earth with grow strangely dim in the light of his glory and grace." Many of us have sang this refrain several times in our lives, but few of us live it out with consistency. Jesus will always be faithful to bring us through the storm. He may not at times take it away, but he will certainly guide us through it, graciously granting to us a deeper understanding of who he is. "And when they got into the boat the wind ceased." Matthew 14:32 I wonder what Peter thought of Jesus in that moment when all was still?
Saturday, April 28, 2012
Saturday, December 17, 2011
Captured By Grief
Few of us think of grief as a good thing. There's even fewer of us that actually like to spend the time it takes in the grieving process for healing to occur. Therapist often use something called the Kubler Ross model to explain how the grieving process works. It breaks grief down, into five stages; denial, anger, bargaining, depression, and acceptance. Anyone who has or will ever lose something or someone can find themselves at one of these stages at some point in their lives. I myself at different points in life, especially those points of transition find myself grieving things i've lost in different ways, but no matter the way I choose to grieve. Grieving must occur, and I have to make sure that my grief is not standing in the way of my relationship with God.
Grief, is a natural, necessary part of life if we intend to grow and function as mature adults. Grief is defined as deep distress, sadness, or regret; especially for the loss of someone or something loved. So according to this definition grief is inevitable and can not be prevented unless we close ourselves off from everyone and everything, hoping that we might somehow avoid experiencing loss of any kind. But this kind of avoidance is impossible. Even in our avoidance we will eventually start to grieve those things lost by our selfish desire to avoid pain. Avoidance is only one way that we may try and protect ourselves from loss, and it's only an inlet that grief may enter in through. Loss that spurs on grief generally comes in a more conspicuous way; I.e., death, divorce, loss of friendship, job, or a loved one's approval. It can be spurred on by a feeling of not being good enough, pretty enough, rich enough, or smart enough. All of these things, and many others can be occasions for grief.
Examining some of grief's ways of entry, has made me realize that shielding myself from grief can never be the answer. In fact, like I said before it is impossible. Guarding myself against grief would only lead to a calloused heart and an unwilling spirit, one that's consumed with self-pity and self-loathing. To be watchful as I grieve losses is very important, and it is something that I'm still learning, so that when those times of intense grief happen I don't fall victim to self-pity or self-loathing. If I allow myself to get ensnared here, The Enemy of my soul (who seeks only my death) will have me take blame for, sit in shame over, and accuse me of being the cause of circumstances that were beyond my control. But when I allow God to step into my grief, re-directing my attention towards Him and the reality of my circumstance, my grief becomes useful and redeemable. Grieving this way, with Christ at the center produces earnestness (diligence) that moves us to reach beyond ourselves and our negative circumstances, into an eager intent to pursue Christ; which propels us toward steadfastness, as we trust and believe that the Lord is good and faithful. Earnestness and a proper perspective on grief is essential to us as disciples as we grow in our faith. Without these things we would sucome to a great number of grievous circumstances that will assail us as we live this life devoted to Christ. Just like everything else in our lives grief serves a purpose. So just when we think the pain of searing loss is or was all in vain, we can be comforted by these words. 2 Corinthians 1:3-4, 2 Corinthians 1:9, Jeremiah 29:11, and Isaiah 51:3
Grief, is a natural, necessary part of life if we intend to grow and function as mature adults. Grief is defined as deep distress, sadness, or regret; especially for the loss of someone or something loved. So according to this definition grief is inevitable and can not be prevented unless we close ourselves off from everyone and everything, hoping that we might somehow avoid experiencing loss of any kind. But this kind of avoidance is impossible. Even in our avoidance we will eventually start to grieve those things lost by our selfish desire to avoid pain. Avoidance is only one way that we may try and protect ourselves from loss, and it's only an inlet that grief may enter in through. Loss that spurs on grief generally comes in a more conspicuous way; I.e., death, divorce, loss of friendship, job, or a loved one's approval. It can be spurred on by a feeling of not being good enough, pretty enough, rich enough, or smart enough. All of these things, and many others can be occasions for grief.
Examining some of grief's ways of entry, has made me realize that shielding myself from grief can never be the answer. In fact, like I said before it is impossible. Guarding myself against grief would only lead to a calloused heart and an unwilling spirit, one that's consumed with self-pity and self-loathing. To be watchful as I grieve losses is very important, and it is something that I'm still learning, so that when those times of intense grief happen I don't fall victim to self-pity or self-loathing. If I allow myself to get ensnared here, The Enemy of my soul (who seeks only my death) will have me take blame for, sit in shame over, and accuse me of being the cause of circumstances that were beyond my control. But when I allow God to step into my grief, re-directing my attention towards Him and the reality of my circumstance, my grief becomes useful and redeemable. Grieving this way, with Christ at the center produces earnestness (diligence) that moves us to reach beyond ourselves and our negative circumstances, into an eager intent to pursue Christ; which propels us toward steadfastness, as we trust and believe that the Lord is good and faithful. Earnestness and a proper perspective on grief is essential to us as disciples as we grow in our faith. Without these things we would sucome to a great number of grievous circumstances that will assail us as we live this life devoted to Christ. Just like everything else in our lives grief serves a purpose. So just when we think the pain of searing loss is or was all in vain, we can be comforted by these words. 2 Corinthians 1:3-4, 2 Corinthians 1:9, Jeremiah 29:11, and Isaiah 51:3
Sunday, October 16, 2011
Purposeful Steps
Last Friday I attended Florida A & M's annual homecoming step show where all of the Divine Nine would be performing; Alpha Kappa Alpha, Alpha Phi Alpha, Delta Sigma Theta, Iota Phi Theta, Kappa Alpha Psi, Omega Psi Phi, Phi Beta Sigma, Sigma Gamma Rho, and Zeta Phi Beta. Each group took the stage interfusing a robust, yet creative balance of rhythmic steps and chants. Some groups of course were better and more energetic than others, but by the end of the show their mission to represent their fraternity or sorority through systematic steps, chants, and strolls had been accomplished.
I sat there watching the crowd stream into the arena with immeasurable energy and excitement. Each former alum of their organization was dressed to the nines in their flyest (if you're unfamiliar with this term see Urban Dictionary.com) outfit as they marched to their seat. The bass thudded throughout the arena, transporting us to another time and place...and the music, a mix of hip/hop and Classic R&B hung in the air as pleasant memories of the past resurfaced while new ones were etched into our minds.
It was at that moment that I wondered if these organizations were still representing the core values and principles they were founded upon, or were they now setting out to fulfill another more inferior purpose? This new purpose, one being designed by the world and defined by the current culture to maintain relevance, not loose cool points, and glorify one's self doesn't align with the intent of their original mission.
Many African American Greek Organizations were formed with an emphasis on public service and civil rights. Each promoting community awareness and action through educational, economic, and cultural service activities. The birth of each black fraternity or sorority (the Divine Nine) bore witness to the fact that despite hardships African Americans refused to succeed to a status of inferiority. Servanthood, justice, and empowerment of the outcast were their catalyst; their ability to identify with the felt needs of their communities, as well as their fellow man were their fuel. These organizations represented a turning point in a time of struggle...love in a time of hate, and selflessness in a time of selfishness. Each step, chant, or stroll was meant to encourage and empower the downtrodden and the outcast.
So are those core values still being lived out today? I hope so! It's my desire that we would all be agents of change, choosing to stand for something greater than ourselves; not letting the high tides of the current culture change us, but being the under current that changes the culture. After all, we were created for a purpose far greater than being cool, cute, relevant, or fashionable.
As for you always be sober-minded, endure suffering, do the work of an evangelist, fulfill your ministry. 2 Timothy 4:5
I sat there watching the crowd stream into the arena with immeasurable energy and excitement. Each former alum of their organization was dressed to the nines in their flyest (if you're unfamiliar with this term see Urban Dictionary.com) outfit as they marched to their seat. The bass thudded throughout the arena, transporting us to another time and place...and the music, a mix of hip/hop and Classic R&B hung in the air as pleasant memories of the past resurfaced while new ones were etched into our minds.
It was at that moment that I wondered if these organizations were still representing the core values and principles they were founded upon, or were they now setting out to fulfill another more inferior purpose? This new purpose, one being designed by the world and defined by the current culture to maintain relevance, not loose cool points, and glorify one's self doesn't align with the intent of their original mission.
Many African American Greek Organizations were formed with an emphasis on public service and civil rights. Each promoting community awareness and action through educational, economic, and cultural service activities. The birth of each black fraternity or sorority (the Divine Nine) bore witness to the fact that despite hardships African Americans refused to succeed to a status of inferiority. Servanthood, justice, and empowerment of the outcast were their catalyst; their ability to identify with the felt needs of their communities, as well as their fellow man were their fuel. These organizations represented a turning point in a time of struggle...love in a time of hate, and selflessness in a time of selfishness. Each step, chant, or stroll was meant to encourage and empower the downtrodden and the outcast.
So are those core values still being lived out today? I hope so! It's my desire that we would all be agents of change, choosing to stand for something greater than ourselves; not letting the high tides of the current culture change us, but being the under current that changes the culture. After all, we were created for a purpose far greater than being cool, cute, relevant, or fashionable.
As for you always be sober-minded, endure suffering, do the work of an evangelist, fulfill your ministry. 2 Timothy 4:5
Sunday, September 18, 2011
Celebrate 28!
Today I turned 28. What! How did this happen? Where did the time go? When I was 17 this land where I dwell now(late twenties) seemed so distant. It's funny how when we're younger we wish we were older, and once we get older some of us wish we could jump in a time machine and go back a few years. Getting older is hard work. I mean it's tough coming to grips with your own immortality, to live with no regrets, and to accept the fact that your life may not ever look the way you thought it would when you were younger. However in Christ there is always hope. He turns our youthful plans into something grandiose, regrets into possibilities; opportunities for repentance. And as we get older he continues to mature us in our faith until one day our mortality will lead us to heaven where we will dwell with him for eternity. Twenty seven was a great year, but it was a tough one. I spent a lot of time questioning God's plan for my life, teeter-tottering back and forth from impenitence to regret; asking God to somehow change some of the circumstances in my life that I thought should be a little different, or at least a little easier. It's in these times that I forgot that long suffering is part of being conformed to the image of Christ. So it has been in these circumstances that God has grown me the most, purifying my motives and mortifying my flesh. As painful as that process was and still is, it is a blessing. And the lessons learned from the process are weightier than two lifetimes worth of Gold.
To recap what God taught me at 27 has been challenging. My vocabulary doesn't seem to contain the words I need to be as descriptive as I would like, but I'll give it a try anyway.
This time last year I embarked on a new adventure and moved to Tallahassee. Since moving here I have experienced God's provision like never before. His faithfulness to provide transportation, housing, and a job within a month of my getting here was astounding. Through it I learned that His sustaining provision has not, and will not fail me. I really can trust Him to provide my every need. Psalm 39:5; Psalm 54:4; Psalm 55:22
There were several times over the last year when I just wanted to do my own thing. This led me into a rebellion against God, but even in my disobedience His grace, patience, and mercy towards me never ceased to flow. He never stops being God. Even in our rebellion he cannot deny himself. "if we are faithless, he remains faithful for He can not deny Himself." 2 Timothy 2:13; Psalm 23:6
Sometimes I get impatient. I am a doer at heart. I hate to admit that, but it's true. To me, being active equates being useful and sometimes this is not always true. Waiting on God is sometimes the only action that needs to be taken. We are being refined and prepared even in those times when it seems as if i'm doing nothing. Waiting is not a curse or a punishment, but waiting is part of God fulfilling his purpose for me. Psalm 27:14; Psalm 37:34; Psalm138:8
I hate letting people into my life. Allowing someone to love me and allowing myself to fall in love with them has always been hard for me. Intimacy is scary. If I learned nothing else over the past year this last lesson would've been enough. It's one that I wrestle with daily. Intimacy with Christ is a privilege. One that is often taken for granted. It's not a discipline, although it can be found through practicing spiritual disciplines, and it's not a ritual or something that can be faked. Intimacy is familiarity with God, through Christ. It is knowing him personally and allowing him to know me personally. Ultimately it's the only way that God relates to us. He is never impersonal. Psalm 139; Hebrews 4:15; Ephesians 2:4-8
Each year God allows us to continue to mature is a blessing, and throughout that year, as well as every other year to follow we should walk in a way that's honoring to him. Remembering to be joyful, confident in Him, and full of hope. Isaiah 55:12; Romans 15:13
To recap what God taught me at 27 has been challenging. My vocabulary doesn't seem to contain the words I need to be as descriptive as I would like, but I'll give it a try anyway.
This time last year I embarked on a new adventure and moved to Tallahassee. Since moving here I have experienced God's provision like never before. His faithfulness to provide transportation, housing, and a job within a month of my getting here was astounding. Through it I learned that His sustaining provision has not, and will not fail me. I really can trust Him to provide my every need. Psalm 39:5; Psalm 54:4; Psalm 55:22
There were several times over the last year when I just wanted to do my own thing. This led me into a rebellion against God, but even in my disobedience His grace, patience, and mercy towards me never ceased to flow. He never stops being God. Even in our rebellion he cannot deny himself. "if we are faithless, he remains faithful for He can not deny Himself." 2 Timothy 2:13; Psalm 23:6
Sometimes I get impatient. I am a doer at heart. I hate to admit that, but it's true. To me, being active equates being useful and sometimes this is not always true. Waiting on God is sometimes the only action that needs to be taken. We are being refined and prepared even in those times when it seems as if i'm doing nothing. Waiting is not a curse or a punishment, but waiting is part of God fulfilling his purpose for me. Psalm 27:14; Psalm 37:34; Psalm138:8
I hate letting people into my life. Allowing someone to love me and allowing myself to fall in love with them has always been hard for me. Intimacy is scary. If I learned nothing else over the past year this last lesson would've been enough. It's one that I wrestle with daily. Intimacy with Christ is a privilege. One that is often taken for granted. It's not a discipline, although it can be found through practicing spiritual disciplines, and it's not a ritual or something that can be faked. Intimacy is familiarity with God, through Christ. It is knowing him personally and allowing him to know me personally. Ultimately it's the only way that God relates to us. He is never impersonal. Psalm 139; Hebrews 4:15; Ephesians 2:4-8
Each year God allows us to continue to mature is a blessing, and throughout that year, as well as every other year to follow we should walk in a way that's honoring to him. Remembering to be joyful, confident in Him, and full of hope. Isaiah 55:12; Romans 15:13
Sunday, September 4, 2011
Abandoning God
One of the hardest things that we have to consistently do as Christians is maintain intimacy within our relationship with Christ. This seems easiest when things are good and seemingly going our way. However, when things are good we can forget to be thankful, which quenches the spirit praise. In the midst of having an ungrateful heart we then tend to forget what long suffering looks like; we forget how to continue to seek God for our daily provisions and instead we forsake God's way in pursuit of our own. We become self-righteous, greedy, and prideful; neglecting prayer and abandoning God. Then stepping away from Him towards our own will, we become blind to our need for Him, failing to see Him as a necessity in our lives.
We inherited this problem from the Israelites. They struggled with the same exact issue. Throughout the book of judges we see the Israelites receive deliverance, and then after a period of time, a time of good, plenty, and peace they abandon God; treating Him like some genie, using him for their own gain. Then once help was given they turned back to doing there own thing, which was not God's way. The people of Israel again did what was evil in the sight of the Lord and served the Baals and the Ashtaroth, the gods of Syria, the gods of Sidon, the gods of Moab, the gods of th Ammonites, and the God's of the Philistines. And they forsook the Lord and did not serve him. Judges 10:6
The Israelites had forgotten that Adonai Elyon (The Lord Most High), is indeed the most high; and just like the Israelites we are a forgetful people. Forgetting that He is awesome, worthy of our devotion, and praise at all times. For the Lord, the Most High is awesome a great king over all the earth. Psalm 47:2 We have treated God like Israel treated Jephthah. We continue to deny Him daily what is rightfully his; rule over our lives, our bodies, our lands, and other possessions, chasing Him out of the city (our hearts) like the son of a prostitute, in pursuit of our own way. 1Corinthians 6:19-20; 1 Chronicles 29:10-13 Then when times are hard we are quick to flock to this same God that we previously abandoned seeking help. " But Jephthah said to the elders of Gilead, did you not hate me and drive me out of my Father's house? why have you come to me now when you are in distress? Judges 11:7 One of the awesome things about God is that he's not vindictive or malicious like us. He always stays true to who he is, even in our moments, hours, months, and years of betrayal and unfaithfulness he still remains faithful to his people. Judges 11:11; 2 Timothy 2:10-13
It's really hard to keep Christ at the center of our lives living in a world that's been polluted by our own agendas, but it's something that we have to do. We have to continually seek intimacy with Christ at all times; not just in times of want or deliverance, but in times of joy and plenty also. He desires our love, praise and devotion at all times, as well as a relationship with his people. To be in a relationship with God is a call to abandon the belief systems of this world while seeking God at all times. He is not a genie, but a loving God!
We inherited this problem from the Israelites. They struggled with the same exact issue. Throughout the book of judges we see the Israelites receive deliverance, and then after a period of time, a time of good, plenty, and peace they abandon God; treating Him like some genie, using him for their own gain. Then once help was given they turned back to doing there own thing, which was not God's way. The people of Israel again did what was evil in the sight of the Lord and served the Baals and the Ashtaroth, the gods of Syria, the gods of Sidon, the gods of Moab, the gods of th Ammonites, and the God's of the Philistines. And they forsook the Lord and did not serve him. Judges 10:6
The Israelites had forgotten that Adonai Elyon (The Lord Most High), is indeed the most high; and just like the Israelites we are a forgetful people. Forgetting that He is awesome, worthy of our devotion, and praise at all times. For the Lord, the Most High is awesome a great king over all the earth. Psalm 47:2 We have treated God like Israel treated Jephthah. We continue to deny Him daily what is rightfully his; rule over our lives, our bodies, our lands, and other possessions, chasing Him out of the city (our hearts) like the son of a prostitute, in pursuit of our own way. 1Corinthians 6:19-20; 1 Chronicles 29:10-13 Then when times are hard we are quick to flock to this same God that we previously abandoned seeking help. " But Jephthah said to the elders of Gilead, did you not hate me and drive me out of my Father's house? why have you come to me now when you are in distress? Judges 11:7 One of the awesome things about God is that he's not vindictive or malicious like us. He always stays true to who he is, even in our moments, hours, months, and years of betrayal and unfaithfulness he still remains faithful to his people. Judges 11:11; 2 Timothy 2:10-13
It's really hard to keep Christ at the center of our lives living in a world that's been polluted by our own agendas, but it's something that we have to do. We have to continually seek intimacy with Christ at all times; not just in times of want or deliverance, but in times of joy and plenty also. He desires our love, praise and devotion at all times, as well as a relationship with his people. To be in a relationship with God is a call to abandon the belief systems of this world while seeking God at all times. He is not a genie, but a loving God!
Monday, August 22, 2011
The Righteous Shall Live By Faith.
O Lord, how long shall I cry for help, and you will not hear? Or cry to you violence and you will not save? Habakkuk 1:1
I feel like I have a lot in common with Habakkuk at this point in my life. I find myself complaining continually about the state of the world, my life, and great injustices that I feel are taking place. I keep wondering when God is going to step in and change my circumstances. Just like the complaint of Habakkuk mine has not fallen on def ears. He has answered “Look among the nations, and see; wonder and be astounded. For I am doing a work in your days that you would not believe if told.” Habakkuk 1:5
What happens when you take that first look, and you see nothing worth taking another glance at? You’re circumstances to you seem unbearable, there’s war, poverty, death, and hedonism everywhere and there’s no clear path of escape. How then do you look among the nations (your life), and see; wonder, be astounded? Easier said than done, right? It’s here that God reminds us what it’s all about. “the righteous shall live by his faith.” Habakkuk 2:4. I have to be able to look at my life and believe that God is in control, that even when I don’t see good, he is good, and because he is good he is doing something good; something more wonderful than I could have ever imagined.
I must confess I have been guilty of chronic doubt. I’ve doubted my purpose, who God is, my gifts, talents, relationships, and vision. Many times I even doubted God’s sovereignty. I’ve spent the past few months living my life in “the what ifs” of doubt. It probably sounds silly to most, but once I committed my life to Christ, and said Lord here I am, I trust you. I didn’t realize (until now) that I would have to keep doing this continually and intentionally....uh, duh. See living by faith is continually trusting the Lord with those things both seen and unseen. This is the very definition of hope, which stems from faith; faith allows us to trust, and trust is a must. In the past I’ve based my trust only on things that I’ve seen, which isn’t necessarily bad, because in many ways I’ve learned how to trust Him because of who I’ve experienced him to be in my life. But he is calling me to a deeper level of trust. He’s calling me to look past my present reality, not ignore it, but look past it, into the hope that is Christ. That is to be my reality. In Joshua 23:14 we learn that not one of his good promises goes unfulfilled. And then in Ephesians 3:20 we are told that He can do exceedingly above all that we can ask or think. These two verses are just some of the many proofs that confirm He is doing a work that far exceeds our greatest expectations of Him. So when He ask us to trust him continually with our whole heart, believing that he is sovereign and good, there’s no reason why we shouldn’t. Deliverance will come, poverty will cease, injustices will be made right, and our path will be made straight. It is not our job to make sure these things happen, but by trusting the Lord we are able to partake as vessels in what He is already doing.
By the end of Habakkuk’s book he realizes that God is indeed in control and has been the whole time. The problem was that Habakkuk had forgotten that the righteous were to live by faith, he needed to be reminded to trust in the Lord no matter what, because He is good and sovereign in any and every circumstance, worthy of all the praise and glory. “Though the fig tree should not blossom, nor fruit be on the vines, the produce of the olive fail and the fields yield no food, the flock be cut off from the fold and there be no herd in the stalls, yet I will rejoice in the Lord; I will take joy in the God of my salvation. God, the Lord, is my strength; he makes my feet like the deer's; he makes me tread on my high places.” Habakkuk 3:17-19
So when all is said and done It can not be refuted that He is God, He alone is good, and it is in Him that we must put our complete trust; hour by hour, minute by minute no matter the surrounding circumstances.
I feel like I have a lot in common with Habakkuk at this point in my life. I find myself complaining continually about the state of the world, my life, and great injustices that I feel are taking place. I keep wondering when God is going to step in and change my circumstances. Just like the complaint of Habakkuk mine has not fallen on def ears. He has answered “Look among the nations, and see; wonder and be astounded. For I am doing a work in your days that you would not believe if told.” Habakkuk 1:5
What happens when you take that first look, and you see nothing worth taking another glance at? You’re circumstances to you seem unbearable, there’s war, poverty, death, and hedonism everywhere and there’s no clear path of escape. How then do you look among the nations (your life), and see; wonder, be astounded? Easier said than done, right? It’s here that God reminds us what it’s all about. “the righteous shall live by his faith.” Habakkuk 2:4. I have to be able to look at my life and believe that God is in control, that even when I don’t see good, he is good, and because he is good he is doing something good; something more wonderful than I could have ever imagined.
I must confess I have been guilty of chronic doubt. I’ve doubted my purpose, who God is, my gifts, talents, relationships, and vision. Many times I even doubted God’s sovereignty. I’ve spent the past few months living my life in “the what ifs” of doubt. It probably sounds silly to most, but once I committed my life to Christ, and said Lord here I am, I trust you. I didn’t realize (until now) that I would have to keep doing this continually and intentionally....uh, duh. See living by faith is continually trusting the Lord with those things both seen and unseen. This is the very definition of hope, which stems from faith; faith allows us to trust, and trust is a must. In the past I’ve based my trust only on things that I’ve seen, which isn’t necessarily bad, because in many ways I’ve learned how to trust Him because of who I’ve experienced him to be in my life. But he is calling me to a deeper level of trust. He’s calling me to look past my present reality, not ignore it, but look past it, into the hope that is Christ. That is to be my reality. In Joshua 23:14 we learn that not one of his good promises goes unfulfilled. And then in Ephesians 3:20 we are told that He can do exceedingly above all that we can ask or think. These two verses are just some of the many proofs that confirm He is doing a work that far exceeds our greatest expectations of Him. So when He ask us to trust him continually with our whole heart, believing that he is sovereign and good, there’s no reason why we shouldn’t. Deliverance will come, poverty will cease, injustices will be made right, and our path will be made straight. It is not our job to make sure these things happen, but by trusting the Lord we are able to partake as vessels in what He is already doing.
By the end of Habakkuk’s book he realizes that God is indeed in control and has been the whole time. The problem was that Habakkuk had forgotten that the righteous were to live by faith, he needed to be reminded to trust in the Lord no matter what, because He is good and sovereign in any and every circumstance, worthy of all the praise and glory. “Though the fig tree should not blossom, nor fruit be on the vines, the produce of the olive fail and the fields yield no food, the flock be cut off from the fold and there be no herd in the stalls, yet I will rejoice in the Lord; I will take joy in the God of my salvation. God, the Lord, is my strength; he makes my feet like the deer's; he makes me tread on my high places.” Habakkuk 3:17-19
So when all is said and done It can not be refuted that He is God, He alone is good, and it is in Him that we must put our complete trust; hour by hour, minute by minute no matter the surrounding circumstances.
Thursday, August 18, 2011
Could He Be The One?
But the Lord said to Samuel, “Do not look on his appearance or on the height of his stature, because I have rejected him. For the LORD sees not as man sees: man looks on the outward appearance, but the LORD looks on the heart.”
1 Samuel 16:7 ESV
God first gave me this verse months ago one morning when I was in the middle of vociferously and fervently praying for my never ending need and desire for a husband. My prayer went something like this, “ Oh Lord, I don’t care what he does or what he looks like as long as he’s......................thus beginning my long list full of unrealistic and some realistic expectations. After reading this verse and praying this prayer ironically enough I headed out my door and meet a guy at Krispy Kreme (this was only the second time in my life I’d ever set foot inside a K.K.). I could’ve never imagined that I would land a date at K.K. God is funny like that sometimes, but I wasn’t laughing. I think at that moment God and I both knew that the K.K. guy was not my future husband, but in that moment He was testing the motive and truthfulness of my prayer. “Oh Lord, I don’t care what he does or what he looks like.” Yeah right, I lied. It’s funny how quick I am to reject the shepherd boy, that actually could be a diamond in the rough.
However, taking all that into account, as well as my long list of “have to haves” there are still some things that were true to David’s character when God plucked him from amongst the flock that I feel should be true of my future husband. Some characteristics are innate; God given. Now once one has chosen to come to him and is filled with his Spirit they then grow in those positive characteristics and attributes, but by being made in His likeness they are there from the start(some of you will probably disagree with me, but whatever). When David was first called to appear before King Saul his character and attributes were well known, and heralded. “Behold, I have seen a son of Jesse the Bethlehemite, who is skillful in playing, a man of valor, a man of war, prudent in speech, and a man of good presence, and the LORD is with him.”
1 Samuel 16:18
It’s easy for me to forget knowing all that David accomplished in his life, where he actually started from. When God chose David he had not yet become what he was to become, but he was in the process of becoming all that he was to become. I have been too quick at times to dismiss good men, because I have created in my mind some mark that they must meet before they are datable, not realizing that they as well as myself are in process. But knowing this is still no reason for me or you to ever settle. Though he may be in process his God given character, attributes, and good reputation should already be present. David was already a believer who had the Spirit and presence of the Lord with him. He was already a prudent man in speech and decisions, he was a man of war; a warrior courageous in battle, he was a man of valor with a great countenance who was bold, brave, determined, and not to be intimidated. He was indeed on his way to being all that God intended, and that could not be denied by anyone.
1 Samuel 16:18 made me re-evaluate my expectations of men. My future husband doesn't have to be perfect or anywhere close to perfection, but he does have to be in process. He does however have to posses some irrevocable, irreplaceable, concrete traits. He has to be a man with the presence of the Lord resting with him and it him. It is my prayer that the Father would purge me of those superficial expectations that keep me from seeing the heart of a godly man who is waiting to pursue the heart of a godly woman.
1 Samuel 16:7 ESV
God first gave me this verse months ago one morning when I was in the middle of vociferously and fervently praying for my never ending need and desire for a husband. My prayer went something like this, “ Oh Lord, I don’t care what he does or what he looks like as long as he’s......................thus beginning my long list full of unrealistic and some realistic expectations. After reading this verse and praying this prayer ironically enough I headed out my door and meet a guy at Krispy Kreme (this was only the second time in my life I’d ever set foot inside a K.K.). I could’ve never imagined that I would land a date at K.K. God is funny like that sometimes, but I wasn’t laughing. I think at that moment God and I both knew that the K.K. guy was not my future husband, but in that moment He was testing the motive and truthfulness of my prayer. “Oh Lord, I don’t care what he does or what he looks like.” Yeah right, I lied. It’s funny how quick I am to reject the shepherd boy, that actually could be a diamond in the rough.
However, taking all that into account, as well as my long list of “have to haves” there are still some things that were true to David’s character when God plucked him from amongst the flock that I feel should be true of my future husband. Some characteristics are innate; God given. Now once one has chosen to come to him and is filled with his Spirit they then grow in those positive characteristics and attributes, but by being made in His likeness they are there from the start(some of you will probably disagree with me, but whatever). When David was first called to appear before King Saul his character and attributes were well known, and heralded. “Behold, I have seen a son of Jesse the Bethlehemite, who is skillful in playing, a man of valor, a man of war, prudent in speech, and a man of good presence, and the LORD is with him.”
1 Samuel 16:18
It’s easy for me to forget knowing all that David accomplished in his life, where he actually started from. When God chose David he had not yet become what he was to become, but he was in the process of becoming all that he was to become. I have been too quick at times to dismiss good men, because I have created in my mind some mark that they must meet before they are datable, not realizing that they as well as myself are in process. But knowing this is still no reason for me or you to ever settle. Though he may be in process his God given character, attributes, and good reputation should already be present. David was already a believer who had the Spirit and presence of the Lord with him. He was already a prudent man in speech and decisions, he was a man of war; a warrior courageous in battle, he was a man of valor with a great countenance who was bold, brave, determined, and not to be intimidated. He was indeed on his way to being all that God intended, and that could not be denied by anyone.
1 Samuel 16:18 made me re-evaluate my expectations of men. My future husband doesn't have to be perfect or anywhere close to perfection, but he does have to be in process. He does however have to posses some irrevocable, irreplaceable, concrete traits. He has to be a man with the presence of the Lord resting with him and it him. It is my prayer that the Father would purge me of those superficial expectations that keep me from seeing the heart of a godly man who is waiting to pursue the heart of a godly woman.
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