"I hate those who cling to worthless idols; as for me, I trust in the Lord." ~Psalm 31:6, NIV
The psalmist has one thing straight in his life: little metal (or plastic) objects don't deserve to be at the forefront of your trust. Despite the vigor with which you cling to your credit card for security, the fact of the matter is that material things only have the value we assign to them. That means that in the greater picture, they are worthless.
No matter your beliefs on the Son of God, I think we can generally agree with Him on at least one point: people are more important than possessions. Wouldn't you rather have a family that loves, supports and cares about you than $100,000? Wouldn't you rather have a partner that you knew would never abandon you, who loved you for who you were and supported your decisions than a Lamborghini? Relationships are what matter, relationships are the reason we are remembered, relationships determine how successful we've been in the end.
The Proverbs describe that it's better to have a good wife in a small house than a foolish woman and all the riches of the world. God is a person of sorts - someone we can relate to. He also happens to be the most bountiful giver and holder of all goods in the universe.
You can trust Him, or the goods He gives. The psalmist has it right - trust the hand that feeds you, not the food the hand gives.
Friday, November 30, 2012
Thursday, November 29, 2012
Day 334: Proverbs 2:3-5
"Indeed, if you call out for insight and cry aloud for understanding, and if you look for it as for silver and search for it as for hidden treasure, then you will understand the fear of the Lord and find the knowledge of God." ~Proverbs 2:3-5, NIV
I'm going to give some hard knocks today: fearlessness is not a magical ability that God gives you once you reach level 50. It is an ability, created by practice, good choices, and a strong resolve to do what it is God has called us to.
Indeed, God can give it to you in greater abundance, if you ask for it, like the Proverbs suggest. If you look for it, if you seek it, then you will understand it, and better know how to make it a reality. God will bless you with that knowledge and more, and a greater grace to make it a part of you.
It's like an if/then equation - if you seek, if you try to make it happen, then God's grace will better enable it to occur. Almost every action of God starts with an action of yours. He can only do what you allow Him to in you. When you take that first step towards Him, though, He comes running like the father to that prodigal son.
I'm going to give some hard knocks today: fearlessness is not a magical ability that God gives you once you reach level 50. It is an ability, created by practice, good choices, and a strong resolve to do what it is God has called us to.
Indeed, God can give it to you in greater abundance, if you ask for it, like the Proverbs suggest. If you look for it, if you seek it, then you will understand it, and better know how to make it a reality. God will bless you with that knowledge and more, and a greater grace to make it a part of you.
It's like an if/then equation - if you seek, if you try to make it happen, then God's grace will better enable it to occur. Almost every action of God starts with an action of yours. He can only do what you allow Him to in you. When you take that first step towards Him, though, He comes running like the father to that prodigal son.
Wednesday, November 28, 2012
Day 333: Obadiah 1:17
"But on Mount Zion will be deliverance; it will be holy, and Jacob will possess his inheritance." ~Obadiah 1:17, NIV
For the most part, there's an exception to every rule. So when your world is falling apart, that insinuates that not everything in your world is indeed, fallen apart.
There will always be a Mount Zion - a refuge in the deluge of catastrophe that God sends. You don't have to be afraid. God is waiting in the rain. Your inheritance is to know God and serve him. Jacob found Mount Zion, Jacob received the inheritance, and so will you.
For the most part, there's an exception to every rule. So when your world is falling apart, that insinuates that not everything in your world is indeed, fallen apart.
There will always be a Mount Zion - a refuge in the deluge of catastrophe that God sends. You don't have to be afraid. God is waiting in the rain. Your inheritance is to know God and serve him. Jacob found Mount Zion, Jacob received the inheritance, and so will you.
Tuesday, November 27, 2012
Day 332: Psalm 34:9
"Fear the Lord, you his holy people, for those who fear him lack nothing." ~Psalm 34:9, NIV
Monday, November 26, 2012
Day 331: Ezekiel 3:9
"I will
make your forehead like the hardest stone, harder than flint. Do not be
afraid of them or terrified by them, though they are a rebellious
people." ~Ezekiel 3:9, NIV
God had a rough task for Ezekiel - the prophet was to tell God's nation something they never wanted to hear. But God promised him that He would never leave him, that He would help him.
God's plan in our lives is rarely easy or simple. Following Him is neither. But regardless, His plan is for you is decidedly NOT to live in fear.
God's task for you won't be a walk in the park. But there's nothing to be afraid of in that plan - nor in the life you get to live.
God had a rough task for Ezekiel - the prophet was to tell God's nation something they never wanted to hear. But God promised him that He would never leave him, that He would help him.
God's plan in our lives is rarely easy or simple. Following Him is neither. But regardless, His plan is for you is decidedly NOT to live in fear.
God's task for you won't be a walk in the park. But there's nothing to be afraid of in that plan - nor in the life you get to live.
Sunday, November 25, 2012
Day 330: Isaiah 12:2
"Surely God is my salvation; I will trust and not be afraid. The Lord, the Lord himself, is my strength and my defense; he has become my salvation." ~Isaiah 12:2, NIV
You may be familiar with the teenage game of "string as many curse words in a sentence as possible." Apparently this originated from the Biblical poetry where the poet tries to stick as many images of their good and loving God in a single verse as it possible.
The topic of these images vary, sometimes they just talk about His unfailing love, but as this verse from a poem of Isaiah shows, sometimes the theme is God as our protector: our reason to fear not.
Surely, if we were to fill our heads as full of God's faithfulness as this verse is, we would never be afraid. But we don't do that, so we look to these verses instead. Isaiah said surely he will trust in God, and choose to not be afraid, he believed in the Lord, and that He was his defense and deliverer.
It's still true - if you want it to be.
You may be familiar with the teenage game of "string as many curse words in a sentence as possible." Apparently this originated from the Biblical poetry where the poet tries to stick as many images of their good and loving God in a single verse as it possible.
The topic of these images vary, sometimes they just talk about His unfailing love, but as this verse from a poem of Isaiah shows, sometimes the theme is God as our protector: our reason to fear not.
Surely, if we were to fill our heads as full of God's faithfulness as this verse is, we would never be afraid. But we don't do that, so we look to these verses instead. Isaiah said surely he will trust in God, and choose to not be afraid, he believed in the Lord, and that He was his defense and deliverer.
It's still true - if you want it to be.
Saturday, November 24, 2012
Day 329: 2 Kings 18:5
"Hezekiah trusted in the Lord, the God of Israel. There was no one like him among all the kings of Judah, either before him or after him." ~2 Kings 18:5, NIV
So in the realm of great kings of Judah, there's a couple of names that might stick out as good ones: David, Solomon, Josiah, Hezekiah, and Jesus.
David was really the first great king Israel had, a true man after God's own heart. Solomon came after him and did great things, but eventually fell away in the end. Josiah was a wee little lad whom God helped to do great things in the wake of his father's terrible rule. Jesus wasn't technically a king, and that leaves our list with Hezekiah.
The simple reason as to why Hezekiah was great is in this verse. He was great because he trusted God. He did what he did unlike any of the kings of Judah because of his unwavering faith in his God.
What results is a simple rule - the only way to be truly great is to trust God. When you put your trust in Him, He leads you to do many things, and all of them will blow your mind. The patient obedience of God is unlike anything. Not fearing what He has for you expands you as a person, too. And in the end, people will remember you because you trusted Him. That's not how they'll remember you, but that's why.
So in the realm of great kings of Judah, there's a couple of names that might stick out as good ones: David, Solomon, Josiah, Hezekiah, and Jesus.
David was really the first great king Israel had, a true man after God's own heart. Solomon came after him and did great things, but eventually fell away in the end. Josiah was a wee little lad whom God helped to do great things in the wake of his father's terrible rule. Jesus wasn't technically a king, and that leaves our list with Hezekiah.
The simple reason as to why Hezekiah was great is in this verse. He was great because he trusted God. He did what he did unlike any of the kings of Judah because of his unwavering faith in his God.
What results is a simple rule - the only way to be truly great is to trust God. When you put your trust in Him, He leads you to do many things, and all of them will blow your mind. The patient obedience of God is unlike anything. Not fearing what He has for you expands you as a person, too. And in the end, people will remember you because you trusted Him. That's not how they'll remember you, but that's why.
Friday, November 23, 2012
Day 328: Joshua 8:1
"Then the Lord said to Joshua, 'Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged. Take the whole army with you, and go up and attack Ai. For I have delivered into your hands the king of Ai, his people, his city and his land.'" ~Joshua 8:1, NIV
It's nice, isn't it, that throughout God's leading Joshua through the conquest of the Promised Land, that He was constantly reminding Joshua to fulfill His command? God's word isn't usually meant to be said once and never repeated.
His promises tend to have a certain repetition about them. And I assure you, if it's important, God will remind you about it the way He did Joshua.
That's why there's going to be 366 entries this year... Because God has a plan for you and it involves choosing to fear not. Like Joshua, we need reminders when we're about to go into a dangerous situation, when obeying God doesn't seem to be the most logical thing in terms of self-preservation.
In fact, some of us need reminders in every situation. God knows that. And He provided His command to Joshua again and again: don't be afraid, don't be discouraged. Through Joshua, we can get the gist.
If we are in God's plan, then He will be with us so that it does not fail. Even in death, God never fails. God's promises were fulfilled to Joshua as long as Israel was right with God and went forward fearlessly.
We can go and do likewise.
It's nice, isn't it, that throughout God's leading Joshua through the conquest of the Promised Land, that He was constantly reminding Joshua to fulfill His command? God's word isn't usually meant to be said once and never repeated.
His promises tend to have a certain repetition about them. And I assure you, if it's important, God will remind you about it the way He did Joshua.
That's why there's going to be 366 entries this year... Because God has a plan for you and it involves choosing to fear not. Like Joshua, we need reminders when we're about to go into a dangerous situation, when obeying God doesn't seem to be the most logical thing in terms of self-preservation.
In fact, some of us need reminders in every situation. God knows that. And He provided His command to Joshua again and again: don't be afraid, don't be discouraged. Through Joshua, we can get the gist.
If we are in God's plan, then He will be with us so that it does not fail. Even in death, God never fails. God's promises were fulfilled to Joshua as long as Israel was right with God and went forward fearlessly.
We can go and do likewise.
Thursday, November 22, 2012
Day 327: Micah 4:4
"Everyone will sit under their own vine and under their own fig tree, and no one will make them afraid, for the Lord Almighty has spoken." ~Micah 4:4
This passage of Micah describes the Mountain of the Lord in the last days - goodness for God's people, an a lack thereof among those who have rejected His place. In those days, it is God's plan for peace.
According to the passage it seems everyone in those days will have peace on the Lord's Mountain. Other nations will worship their gods, and Israel will worship God. Israel will have an abundance - to every man his own vine and own fig tree - and because God has spoken, no one will give them cause to be afraid.
The Lord spoke in the old days, will speak in the new days, but He's still talking now. What He has said (fear not), what He will say (you have nothing to fear) is equivalent to what His will is, and He wants you to walk in His purpose for your life (don't be afraid).
The choice to walk or not in God's purpose is always in our hands. Part of accepting that purpose is choosing to walk fearlessly. We can do it. But it won't happen unless we make it happen.
This passage of Micah describes the Mountain of the Lord in the last days - goodness for God's people, an a lack thereof among those who have rejected His place. In those days, it is God's plan for peace.
According to the passage it seems everyone in those days will have peace on the Lord's Mountain. Other nations will worship their gods, and Israel will worship God. Israel will have an abundance - to every man his own vine and own fig tree - and because God has spoken, no one will give them cause to be afraid.
The Lord spoke in the old days, will speak in the new days, but He's still talking now. What He has said (fear not), what He will say (you have nothing to fear) is equivalent to what His will is, and He wants you to walk in His purpose for your life (don't be afraid).
The choice to walk or not in God's purpose is always in our hands. Part of accepting that purpose is choosing to walk fearlessly. We can do it. But it won't happen unless we make it happen.
Wednesday, November 21, 2012
Day 326: Psalm 115:11
"You who fear him, trust in the Lord—he is their help and shield." ~Psalm 115:11, NIV
Boy do we have a lot of confusing pronouns going on right now... it would appear that 'you' is referring to Israel, 'him' to God, but then the psalmist instructs us to trust 'him' by one of His names - the Lord. 'He' still makes sense in reference to God, but do 'they' refer to someone separate of 'you' or did 'you' just become 'them'?
The psalmist couldn't have made it easy, now could they? (Here we go again...)
Regardless of the confusion in English, the premise remains simple: If you respect/revere God, trust in Him. Those who trust in Him know God as their help, as their shield, as their hope, a safe place to be.
That doesn't mean God won't allow you to be in helpless, defenseless, hopeless, unsafe situations. But even if He chooses not to bring you out of those places the way you think He should doesn't change the fact that in a helpless situation, He is your help, in defenseless situations, He is your shield, in hopeless situations, He is hope, in dangerous situations, He is your safety.
God uses all things, and sometimes He says no to our prayers. He still loves us, and He still uses all things to draw us nearer to Him.
Even fear.
Boy do we have a lot of confusing pronouns going on right now... it would appear that 'you' is referring to Israel, 'him' to God, but then the psalmist instructs us to trust 'him' by one of His names - the Lord. 'He' still makes sense in reference to God, but do 'they' refer to someone separate of 'you' or did 'you' just become 'them'?
The psalmist couldn't have made it easy, now could they? (Here we go again...)
Regardless of the confusion in English, the premise remains simple: If you respect/revere God, trust in Him. Those who trust in Him know God as their help, as their shield, as their hope, a safe place to be.
That doesn't mean God won't allow you to be in helpless, defenseless, hopeless, unsafe situations. But even if He chooses not to bring you out of those places the way you think He should doesn't change the fact that in a helpless situation, He is your help, in defenseless situations, He is your shield, in hopeless situations, He is hope, in dangerous situations, He is your safety.
God uses all things, and sometimes He says no to our prayers. He still loves us, and He still uses all things to draw us nearer to Him.
Even fear.
Tuesday, November 20, 2012
Day 325: Psalm 111:5
"He provides food for those who fear him; he remembers his covenant forever." ~Psalm 111:5, NIV
'I know, sometimes it's easy to believes God remembers everyone... except for me. He provides for those who need, but what about me?
'Does He just not care about me? Why do I feel so alone? Was it something I did? My lack of faith? Do I just need to look up, out?'
Deserts are not a fun place to be in. You don't have enough food. You don't have enough water. The heat suffocates you, the night is paralyzing. God had the Israelites wander through the desert for 40 years.
He was still with them. He's still with you. He remembered the Israelites for 400 years of prophetic drought until Jesus came. He remembers His promise to you. And He loves you.
His promise. His love never fails. He'll provide. You can take it.
'I know, sometimes it's easy to believes God remembers everyone... except for me. He provides for those who need, but what about me?
'Does He just not care about me? Why do I feel so alone? Was it something I did? My lack of faith? Do I just need to look up, out?'
Deserts are not a fun place to be in. You don't have enough food. You don't have enough water. The heat suffocates you, the night is paralyzing. God had the Israelites wander through the desert for 40 years.
He was still with them. He's still with you. He remembered the Israelites for 400 years of prophetic drought until Jesus came. He remembers His promise to you. And He loves you.
His promise. His love never fails. He'll provide. You can take it.
Monday, November 19, 2012
Day 324: Matthew 6:34
"Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own." ~Matthew 6:34, NIV
Jesus is speaking to a crowd on a mountain, and summarizing some good-life suggestions. A list of the important things includes giving to the needy, prayer, fasting, treasures in heaven, and not worrying.
Whoa. Okay, there's a lot of things going on here - but one thing that Jesus hammers home is this whole idea of not worrying. Regardless of your spirituality, when it all comes down to it, what good does worry do?
Does it inspire a change? Then it's good, and not really worry, that chronic event. Do you obsess over your problem and do nothing to alleviate your worries? Then you're wasting your time. And what good is wasting your time?
Logic has just proven our good Lord's words sound. So if the fact that your good Lord has said it does not convince you, allow categorical analysis to suffice, please.
God bless.
Jesus is speaking to a crowd on a mountain, and summarizing some good-life suggestions. A list of the important things includes giving to the needy, prayer, fasting, treasures in heaven, and not worrying.
Whoa. Okay, there's a lot of things going on here - but one thing that Jesus hammers home is this whole idea of not worrying. Regardless of your spirituality, when it all comes down to it, what good does worry do?
Does it inspire a change? Then it's good, and not really worry, that chronic event. Do you obsess over your problem and do nothing to alleviate your worries? Then you're wasting your time. And what good is wasting your time?
Logic has just proven our good Lord's words sound. So if the fact that your good Lord has said it does not convince you, allow categorical analysis to suffice, please.
God bless.
Sunday, November 18, 2012
Day 323: Psalm 144:2
"He is my loving God and my fortress, my stronghold and my deliverer, my shield, in whom I take refuge, who subdues peoples under me." ~Psalm 144:2, NIV
Saturday, November 17, 2012
Day 322: Psalm 25:2
"I trust in you; do not let me be put to shame, nor let my enemies triumph over me." ~Psalm 25:2, NIV
Dear
God,
I
don't always make good choices, like trusting that You will actually
take care of me but... when I do choose to trust You... will You
please not put me to shame?
Will
You please stop my enemies so that they don't win?
Please?
Friday, November 16, 2012
Day 321: Luke 4:18
"The Spirit of the Lord is on me, because he has anointed me to proclaim good news to the poor. He has sent me to proclaim freedom for the prisoners and recovery of sight for the blind,
to set the oppressed free." ~Luke 4:18, NIV
In this part of Luke, Jesus is in a synagogue, reading scripture. He reads this passage from Isaiah, and then looks to the crowd, saying, "you have seen this come to pass today." Jesus took the hope that the Old Testament heroes looked to and embodied it.
He knew it was true - the Spirit was upon Him and enabled Him to do everything He did. Be it bringing good news to the poor, setting psychological captives free, healing the sick, delivering His people from sin, Jesus did it all, and continues to do so today.
People used to look forward to the hope of the Messiah, but we have it with us today - and what better way to prevent fear than to fill up on hope? The promise made in the Old Testament is fulfilled by Jesus, and if you feel like you could be poor, a captive, sick, or oppressed, please take courage: Jesus came to rescue you. If you've accepted Him, He has saved you and will save you. If not, He's only a conversation away.
to set the oppressed free." ~Luke 4:18, NIV
In this part of Luke, Jesus is in a synagogue, reading scripture. He reads this passage from Isaiah, and then looks to the crowd, saying, "you have seen this come to pass today." Jesus took the hope that the Old Testament heroes looked to and embodied it.
He knew it was true - the Spirit was upon Him and enabled Him to do everything He did. Be it bringing good news to the poor, setting psychological captives free, healing the sick, delivering His people from sin, Jesus did it all, and continues to do so today.
People used to look forward to the hope of the Messiah, but we have it with us today - and what better way to prevent fear than to fill up on hope? The promise made in the Old Testament is fulfilled by Jesus, and if you feel like you could be poor, a captive, sick, or oppressed, please take courage: Jesus came to rescue you. If you've accepted Him, He has saved you and will save you. If not, He's only a conversation away.
Thursday, November 15, 2012
Day 320: Joshua 10:25
"Joshua said to them, Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged. Be strong and courageous. This is what the Lord will do to all the enemies you are going to fight." ~Joshua 10:25, NIV
Joshua as the leader of the people often repeated to them what his leader said to him. And since his leader was God, that ensured that what Joshua told his people was absolutely true.
God told us through Joshua, and He tells us again through Israel. Neither of the two were to allow fear to consume their hearts. In the verses preceding this one, Joshua was outlining the victory the Israelites were going to have.
No matter your battle, as long as God is behind it, you have no enemy, no attack, nothing to fear. Don't allow your fears to discourage you, let God give you strength, and courage to counteract your choices.
Or just make wise choices to begin with...
Joshua as the leader of the people often repeated to them what his leader said to him. And since his leader was God, that ensured that what Joshua told his people was absolutely true.
God told us through Joshua, and He tells us again through Israel. Neither of the two were to allow fear to consume their hearts. In the verses preceding this one, Joshua was outlining the victory the Israelites were going to have.
No matter your battle, as long as God is behind it, you have no enemy, no attack, nothing to fear. Don't allow your fears to discourage you, let God give you strength, and courage to counteract your choices.
Or just make wise choices to begin with...
Wednesday, November 14, 2012
Day 319: 1 John 4:18
"There is no fear in love. But perfect love drives out fear, because fear has to do with punishment. The one who fears is not made perfect in love." ~1 John 4:18, NIV
When you first consider Christianity, it certainly seems as fear-based as Judaism - it seems to say "obey me because otherwise you're going to hell." And while it's true that otherwise you are going to hell, that's not the crux of Christianity.
A relationship with Jesus Christ, on the other hand, is.
It was His first love that gave us any chance of skipping out on Hell. And it is His love that reaches out to save you. Christianity as intended is more of a "obey me or you're gonna miss out on God's great love" than a "go to Hell" kind of philosophy.
Christ's perfect love casts out ALL fear. And only with Him inside of you, with His perfect love functioning as a part of you, can you live in God's plan of no fear for your life.
Perfect love isn't attainable, it's given, and freely at that.
When you first consider Christianity, it certainly seems as fear-based as Judaism - it seems to say "obey me because otherwise you're going to hell." And while it's true that otherwise you are going to hell, that's not the crux of Christianity.
A relationship with Jesus Christ, on the other hand, is.
It was His first love that gave us any chance of skipping out on Hell. And it is His love that reaches out to save you. Christianity as intended is more of a "obey me or you're gonna miss out on God's great love" than a "go to Hell" kind of philosophy.
Christ's perfect love casts out ALL fear. And only with Him inside of you, with His perfect love functioning as a part of you, can you live in God's plan of no fear for your life.
Perfect love isn't attainable, it's given, and freely at that.
Tuesday, November 13, 2012
Day 318: Joshua 1:9
"Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go." ~Joshua 1:9, NIV
It is true that God has commanded us, through Joshua, to courageously and fearlessly obey Him - for He promises to be with us no matter where we go. 365 times? I wish.
But God says it here, so I will let that be sufficient. He told Joshua, and didn't Joshua fulfill God's will and create peace and prosperity for His people?
He still has great plans for us, and if He did that for Joshua under the old covenant, what might He do with us?
It is true that God has commanded us, through Joshua, to courageously and fearlessly obey Him - for He promises to be with us no matter where we go. 365 times? I wish.
But God says it here, so I will let that be sufficient. He told Joshua, and didn't Joshua fulfill God's will and create peace and prosperity for His people?
He still has great plans for us, and if He did that for Joshua under the old covenant, what might He do with us?
Monday, November 12, 2012
Day 317: Hebrews 13:8
"Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever." ~Hebrews 13:8, NIV
All of the hope I have in this world, isn't in this world at all - it's in Jesus, and His act of death so I could one day pray to Him, get my sins forgiven, and begin the best relationship ever that allows me to go to Heaven when I die.
This hope is like the man Himself - it is as potent as it was when He first rose from the dead today, and it will always stay the same. Jesus, the source of all hope, never changes - as the verse says, He is the same yesterday, and today, and forever.
The love He has for us never diminishes. His power never diminishes. His validity never diminishes. And what He stands for will outlast time. This Jesus... this is what we Christians put our hope in: God's faithfulness.
All of the hope I have in this world, isn't in this world at all - it's in Jesus, and His act of death so I could one day pray to Him, get my sins forgiven, and begin the best relationship ever that allows me to go to Heaven when I die.
This hope is like the man Himself - it is as potent as it was when He first rose from the dead today, and it will always stay the same. Jesus, the source of all hope, never changes - as the verse says, He is the same yesterday, and today, and forever.
The love He has for us never diminishes. His power never diminishes. His validity never diminishes. And what He stands for will outlast time. This Jesus... this is what we Christians put our hope in: God's faithfulness.
Sunday, November 11, 2012
Day 316: Psalm 31:24
"Be strong and take heart, all you who hope in the Lord." ~Psalm 31:24, NIV
Do you think God can help you overcome your fear? Do you think He wants you to live in a life of His full confidence? Are you living because you love Jesus, not to obey a set of rules?
If you said yes, it means you hope in the Lord. Jesus is the hope of the world, a great light in our hearts of darkness. David, in this psalm, ends with a poignant command to himself and those around him he knows seek God.
After asking and asking God for help, he exhorts all those in his situation to adopt one attitude: be strong and take heart. Wait patiently for God's timing, and stand fast to what you know is true - God made you to be courageous. That doesn't mean you'll always be fearless, but it means you will choose to do what's right even in extenuating circumstances, and that you won't allow the words of your enemies to drag you down.
You choose your attitude. You choose to be strong. You choose to take heart in God's hope. You wait... and God honors it.
Do you think God can help you overcome your fear? Do you think He wants you to live in a life of His full confidence? Are you living because you love Jesus, not to obey a set of rules?
If you said yes, it means you hope in the Lord. Jesus is the hope of the world, a great light in our hearts of darkness. David, in this psalm, ends with a poignant command to himself and those around him he knows seek God.
After asking and asking God for help, he exhorts all those in his situation to adopt one attitude: be strong and take heart. Wait patiently for God's timing, and stand fast to what you know is true - God made you to be courageous. That doesn't mean you'll always be fearless, but it means you will choose to do what's right even in extenuating circumstances, and that you won't allow the words of your enemies to drag you down.
You choose your attitude. You choose to be strong. You choose to take heart in God's hope. You wait... and God honors it.
Saturday, November 10, 2012
Day 315: 2 Timothy 4:18
"The Lord will rescue me from every evil attack and will bring me safely to his heavenly kingdom. To him be glory for ever and ever. Amen." ~2 Timothy 4:18, NIV
As far as I know, Paul is writing Timothy from his "prison" in Rome. This part of the letter is a short summary of instruction for Timothy, because Paul knows his time is running short. But like every Christian, he knows two things:
1) No matter what happens, God is good
2) No matter what happens, He will be rescued
We have to be aware that God's ways are not our own, and that God's idea of rescue might be our human idea of demise. I think Paul is also referring here to things that could possibly damage and weaken his faith in Christ. If the attacks were successful, he would be in even more trouble.
But Jesus takes care of His sheep, and Paul knows He will rescue him from every evil attack, no matter what kind, no matter when it comes, no matter how it ends.
In the end, our lives are to be lived to His glory - whatever that means for us, we are to choose to be witnesses. Fearless. That's how we should be following Him.
As far as I know, Paul is writing Timothy from his "prison" in Rome. This part of the letter is a short summary of instruction for Timothy, because Paul knows his time is running short. But like every Christian, he knows two things:
1) No matter what happens, God is good
2) No matter what happens, He will be rescued
We have to be aware that God's ways are not our own, and that God's idea of rescue might be our human idea of demise. I think Paul is also referring here to things that could possibly damage and weaken his faith in Christ. If the attacks were successful, he would be in even more trouble.
But Jesus takes care of His sheep, and Paul knows He will rescue him from every evil attack, no matter what kind, no matter when it comes, no matter how it ends.
In the end, our lives are to be lived to His glory - whatever that means for us, we are to choose to be witnesses. Fearless. That's how we should be following Him.
Friday, November 09, 2012
Day 314: Hebrews 11:23
"By faith Moses' parents hid him for three months after he was born, because they saw he was no ordinary child, and they were not afraid of the king's edict." ~Hebrews 11:23, NIV
In this passage of Hebrews, James is talking about different people in history who have had extraordinary faith that made them righteous in God's eyes. Unsurprisingly, Moses and his parents are listed.
From the beginning of time, God has ordained certain people to do certain things. Way back in the Old Testament, He had already chosen people like Noah, Abraham, Joseph, all the kings and prophets, and of course Moses, to do His will. These people were special, anyone could see it. The first three examples knew, heard, and obeyed God's voice. It was clear to see, but in Moses' case, it probably wasn't just adoring parents who saw something more: I suspect God had placed that "something" upon His chosen servant.
Moses' parents were just doing what all godly people should: hearing the voice of God and obeying it. In doing His will, we are right with God, even if not with the authorities of the world. But that shouldn't matter - yes, obey authority, but more than that, we are called to obey God.
Don't spurn Earthly authority, for it is a shadow of God's authority, but don't obey it if it runs in contrast to what God and His word show. Who knows - your fearless obedience may be what frees a captive nation from their bonds.
In this passage of Hebrews, James is talking about different people in history who have had extraordinary faith that made them righteous in God's eyes. Unsurprisingly, Moses and his parents are listed.
From the beginning of time, God has ordained certain people to do certain things. Way back in the Old Testament, He had already chosen people like Noah, Abraham, Joseph, all the kings and prophets, and of course Moses, to do His will. These people were special, anyone could see it. The first three examples knew, heard, and obeyed God's voice. It was clear to see, but in Moses' case, it probably wasn't just adoring parents who saw something more: I suspect God had placed that "something" upon His chosen servant.
Moses' parents were just doing what all godly people should: hearing the voice of God and obeying it. In doing His will, we are right with God, even if not with the authorities of the world. But that shouldn't matter - yes, obey authority, but more than that, we are called to obey God.
Don't spurn Earthly authority, for it is a shadow of God's authority, but don't obey it if it runs in contrast to what God and His word show. Who knows - your fearless obedience may be what frees a captive nation from their bonds.
Thursday, November 08, 2012
Day 313: Joshua 10:8
"The Lord said to Joshua, 'Do not be afraid of them; I have given them into your hand. Not one of them will be able to withstand you.'" ~Joshua 10:8, NIV
God reminded Joshua pretty often not to let his fear get the best of him in battle situations. I think it was because Joshua had to wonder if Israel had sinned or not, because if they had, God could not be with them.
Only God knew, and God let Josh know.
We can always be certain that God is with us, although it is prudent to converse with Him daily to see what lies ahead and what, if anything needs to be changed for the smoothest ride. God doesn't want us to let fear control our lives; we can choose to act in spite of fear that is inside of us.
Our actions should always be in obedience. If God says to do this or that, oughtn't we do it? If we're afraid, oughtn't we do it anyways, for the love of our maker?
God reminded Joshua pretty often not to let his fear get the best of him in battle situations. I think it was because Joshua had to wonder if Israel had sinned or not, because if they had, God could not be with them.
Only God knew, and God let Josh know.
We can always be certain that God is with us, although it is prudent to converse with Him daily to see what lies ahead and what, if anything needs to be changed for the smoothest ride. God doesn't want us to let fear control our lives; we can choose to act in spite of fear that is inside of us.
Our actions should always be in obedience. If God says to do this or that, oughtn't we do it? If we're afraid, oughtn't we do it anyways, for the love of our maker?
Wednesday, November 07, 2012
Day 312: Mark 4:40
"He said to his disciples, 'Why are you so afraid? Do you still have no faith?'" ~Mark 4:40, NIV
Jesus had perfect control over His fear. That doesn't mean He was never afraid, but He never let fear dictate His actions - whatever He saw the Father doing, He did also. Once He was in the boat while His disciples were going across the sea. He was tired, so He was napping, and a great storm came up.
The disciples feared for their lives, and they woke up Jesus. "Don't you care if we drown?" they screamed in His face. I bet that, rubbing the sleep out of His eyes, He stood and told the wind and waves to shut it.
That probably silenced His disciples too. In the stunned silence He probably looked them over, and asked the above. They were afraid of death, and I suspect they were also afraid of Jesus. He had, after all, just been interrupted of His nap, and was likely irritable.
In all seriousness, the disciples had seen and participated in plenty of miracles at that point. It's totally possible that if they had had faith, they could have calmed the waves. It's also possible that they would have survived the storm.
Jesus isn't napping in our boat, He's always awake, alive and aware inside of us, bidding us to do what we see Him do. When we let fear get the best of us, I bet He's saying the above. "Why are you afraid? Don't you trust me?
Do my people still have no faith?"
Jesus had perfect control over His fear. That doesn't mean He was never afraid, but He never let fear dictate His actions - whatever He saw the Father doing, He did also. Once He was in the boat while His disciples were going across the sea. He was tired, so He was napping, and a great storm came up.
The disciples feared for their lives, and they woke up Jesus. "Don't you care if we drown?" they screamed in His face. I bet that, rubbing the sleep out of His eyes, He stood and told the wind and waves to shut it.
That probably silenced His disciples too. In the stunned silence He probably looked them over, and asked the above. They were afraid of death, and I suspect they were also afraid of Jesus. He had, after all, just been interrupted of His nap, and was likely irritable.
In all seriousness, the disciples had seen and participated in plenty of miracles at that point. It's totally possible that if they had had faith, they could have calmed the waves. It's also possible that they would have survived the storm.
Jesus isn't napping in our boat, He's always awake, alive and aware inside of us, bidding us to do what we see Him do. When we let fear get the best of us, I bet He's saying the above. "Why are you afraid? Don't you trust me?
Do my people still have no faith?"
Tuesday, November 06, 2012
Day 311: Job 11:18
"You will be secure, because there is hope; you will look about you and take your rest in safety." ~Job 11:18, NIV
The story of Job is perhaps simplistic - a man who has everything loses it all. God allowed Satan to take everything Job had, and as he sat in the pit of misery his friends try to understand why it happened. Their hypothesis is that Job has a terrible unrepented sin that is festering and causing God to be angry with Job. What Job's friends say is essentially true, but it did not apply to his situation because he had not sinned.
Yes, it's true that when you submit to God, and repent of your shortcomings, you will be secure; you will know hope; you will look about you and take your rest in safety. But there's this oddball enemy that we have that has some power over life on Earth, and he effects the outcomes of our predictions.
Regardless of how he affects us, that above is true; there is security in Jesus because He gives hope. There are two other things that are true in life: death and taxes. But thanks to Jesus, we have a third truth, which is life after death. This life... it can be abundant. The life after death? Assuming you choose to pursue a relationship with Jesus, it will be even more so.
There is hope. There is security. It's out there. And it's up to you to attain it.
The story of Job is perhaps simplistic - a man who has everything loses it all. God allowed Satan to take everything Job had, and as he sat in the pit of misery his friends try to understand why it happened. Their hypothesis is that Job has a terrible unrepented sin that is festering and causing God to be angry with Job. What Job's friends say is essentially true, but it did not apply to his situation because he had not sinned.
Yes, it's true that when you submit to God, and repent of your shortcomings, you will be secure; you will know hope; you will look about you and take your rest in safety. But there's this oddball enemy that we have that has some power over life on Earth, and he effects the outcomes of our predictions.
Regardless of how he affects us, that above is true; there is security in Jesus because He gives hope. There are two other things that are true in life: death and taxes. But thanks to Jesus, we have a third truth, which is life after death. This life... it can be abundant. The life after death? Assuming you choose to pursue a relationship with Jesus, it will be even more so.
There is hope. There is security. It's out there. And it's up to you to attain it.
Monday, November 05, 2012
Day 310: 1 Corinthians 10:13
"No temptation has overtaken you except what is common to mankind. And God is faithful; he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, he will also provide a way out so that you can endure it." ~1 Corinthians 10:13, NIV
What a great verse, and a fantastic reminder of God's promise! Once we've submitted ourselves to God, He is gracious and as stated above, will not LET you be tempted to do evil beyond what you can restrain yourself from.
If you don't, it's not because the attraction was too strong, it's because you chose poorly, because as this verse says, even when you are tempted, there will always be an out. You won't be, you can't be trapped; Jesus has always left you a delivering path to take.
You can endure it. You can make wise choices. God has given you that capability, but you must choose to use it - He will never force you to do anything.
What a great verse, and a fantastic reminder of God's promise! Once we've submitted ourselves to God, He is gracious and as stated above, will not LET you be tempted to do evil beyond what you can restrain yourself from.
If you don't, it's not because the attraction was too strong, it's because you chose poorly, because as this verse says, even when you are tempted, there will always be an out. You won't be, you can't be trapped; Jesus has always left you a delivering path to take.
You can endure it. You can make wise choices. God has given you that capability, but you must choose to use it - He will never force you to do anything.
Sunday, November 04, 2012
Day 309: Deuteronomy 3:22
"Do not be afraid of them; the Lord your God himself will fight for you." ~Deuteronomy 3:22, NIV
Remember a couple days ago we talked about the second verse in Deuteronomy chapter 3? Yeah, this is the same gist: Moses is talking to the Israelites, telling them what God's plan for their generation is.
That plan is basically to enter the Promised Land, execute supernatural justice and start living. But if you recall, that was their plan 40 years prior. Way back when they were supposed to enter the Promised Land, they chickened out and wandered the desert for 4 decades.
Moses is prepping them for taking the Promised Land, and reminds them not to make the mistake their forefathers made, which was chickening out.
And again, like in v2, we know God has a perfect plan for us, but that plan can only come to fruition when we live in it - and fear generally stops that from happening. So don't!
Don't be afraid! God is on your side, guiding you through His plan. If you're living in it, there's nothing that can stop you.
Remember a couple days ago we talked about the second verse in Deuteronomy chapter 3? Yeah, this is the same gist: Moses is talking to the Israelites, telling them what God's plan for their generation is.
That plan is basically to enter the Promised Land, execute supernatural justice and start living. But if you recall, that was their plan 40 years prior. Way back when they were supposed to enter the Promised Land, they chickened out and wandered the desert for 4 decades.
Moses is prepping them for taking the Promised Land, and reminds them not to make the mistake their forefathers made, which was chickening out.
And again, like in v2, we know God has a perfect plan for us, but that plan can only come to fruition when we live in it - and fear generally stops that from happening. So don't!
Don't be afraid! God is on your side, guiding you through His plan. If you're living in it, there's nothing that can stop you.
Saturday, November 03, 2012
Day 308: Psalm 7:1
"Lord my God, I take refuge in you; save and deliver me from all who pursue me." ~Psalm 7:1, NIV
David had a lot of enemies throughout his life. But he also had one undefeated source of comfort and hope - his God. David sometimes chose to rely on himself to do what he wanted, but as you read the Psalms, 1 and 2 Samuel, and 1 and 2 Kings, we see that David usually chose to rely on something outside of his control.
God.
Here we see David actively choosing to "take refuge" in God, and ask Him to save him. If David, the man after God's heart did it, can't we? And if God sent His son to save us, won't He help even the least of you?
David had a lot of enemies throughout his life. But he also had one undefeated source of comfort and hope - his God. David sometimes chose to rely on himself to do what he wanted, but as you read the Psalms, 1 and 2 Samuel, and 1 and 2 Kings, we see that David usually chose to rely on something outside of his control.
God.
Here we see David actively choosing to "take refuge" in God, and ask Him to save him. If David, the man after God's heart did it, can't we? And if God sent His son to save us, won't He help even the least of you?
Friday, November 02, 2012
Day 307: Isaiah 51:7
"Hear me, you who know what is right, you people who have taken my instruction to heart: Do not fear the reproach of mere mortals or be terrified by their insults." ~Isaiah 51:7, NIV
God's people should know His voice, right? So why is it so hard to listen and obey what is written so clearly in the Bible.
I wish I knew.
What I do know for certain is that here God says to those who want to follow Him not to fear the reproach and/or hate of those around us for following Him, nor are we to be bothered by their insults.
They say that if you have haters, you must be doing something right. In this instance, by God's own word, it's true. So tell me: how many haters do you have?
God's people should know His voice, right? So why is it so hard to listen and obey what is written so clearly in the Bible.
I wish I knew.
What I do know for certain is that here God says to those who want to follow Him not to fear the reproach and/or hate of those around us for following Him, nor are we to be bothered by their insults.
They say that if you have haters, you must be doing something right. In this instance, by God's own word, it's true. So tell me: how many haters do you have?
Thursday, November 01, 2012
Day 306: Luke 8:50
"Hearing this, Jesus said to Jairus, 'Don't be afraid; just believe, and she will be healed.'" ~Luke 8:50, NIV
Jairus had asked Jesus to come to his house and heal his daughter, and Jesus, being who He is, said yes. On the way we know that another healing took place, one that 'cost' time. Messengers told Jairus his daughter was dead, and that he didn't need to bother the teacher.
The situation probably seemed hopeless to Jairus, but Jesus knew better. He said something I love to repeat: Don't be afraid; just believe.
Our situations often seem hopeless, because we have a very limited perspective and struggle learning God's perspective. But He knows what He sees, and He knows what He will do. And from past experiences, usually it is stunning. In your hopeless situation, don't let fear consume you, but believe He is watching and waiting and going to act in you.
Jairus' daughter was raised from the dead. What's He gonna do for you?
Jairus had asked Jesus to come to his house and heal his daughter, and Jesus, being who He is, said yes. On the way we know that another healing took place, one that 'cost' time. Messengers told Jairus his daughter was dead, and that he didn't need to bother the teacher.
The situation probably seemed hopeless to Jairus, but Jesus knew better. He said something I love to repeat: Don't be afraid; just believe.
Our situations often seem hopeless, because we have a very limited perspective and struggle learning God's perspective. But He knows what He sees, and He knows what He will do. And from past experiences, usually it is stunning. In your hopeless situation, don't let fear consume you, but believe He is watching and waiting and going to act in you.
Jairus' daughter was raised from the dead. What's He gonna do for you?
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