Keep your karma. I'll stick to farming!

The word karma has been in my mind lately. I don’t know why God brought it to my attention, but He has. I decided to look it up. One definition that I found stated: Karma is the cosmic principle according to which each person is rewarded or punished in one incarnation according to that person’s deeds in the previous incarnation. Karma is part of Hinduism and Buddhism. This is not Biblical!

The basic idea of karma is: what you do will eventually come back to you. Hmmm... sounds familiar!

A man reaps what he sows. Galatians 6:7

Reaping and sowing is a farming concept. Farming 101: if you plant wheat, wheat will grow. You wouldn’t sow wheat expecting to reap corn. That would be ridiculous and miraculous!

God uses this concept throughout His word. Job 4:8 says, those who plow evil and those who sow trouble reap it. 

I can’t think of a better real life example from the Bible, than Jacob.  Rebekah and Jacob decide they want Jacob to get the blessings of the firstborn. Even though the blessing had already been promised to Jacob, by God (Gen 25:23), Rebekah and Jacob resorted to deception in order to secure the desired position and the benefits that accompany it. Jacob deserves a little credit as he initially questions his mom’s idea. But, it doesn’t take much for him to be persuaded to go along with the trickery.

The plan succeeds in deceiving Isaac and securing the firstborn blessing for the wrong child. This is where things start going downhill for Jacob. There are several repercussions to this act of trickery. To begin with, the firstborn learns about the trick and begins plotting to kill his brother. Out of fear, Rebekah sends Jacob to live with his uncle. This is the last time mother and son will see each other. Jacob is then deceived, in a similar way, by his father-in-law.

As Jacob painfully learns, sowing deception will reap more deception. 

As a mom, I will be honest, I wonder what Rebekah was thinking. It is so far from the concept that I try to teach our children: treat others the way you want to be treated. It goes right along with reaping and sowing. If you are kind you will reap kindness. If you are giving you will reap blessings. If you love others, you will reap love.

It isn’t always easy to do the right thing. Sometimes our feelings get hurt and we want to retaliate. Sometimes things aren’t going our way and there is a chance to step in and steal the blessings that belong to someone else. Sometimes we follow the crowd rather than doing the right thing and standing apart. Sowing goodness and righteousness isn’t always the easiest route. 

Thank God that we have Jesus! Even when we mess up and sow the wrong seeds, Jesus is there. When we confess that we made a mistake, God is faithful to forgive us and help us through the harvest. He can’t change the seeds we have sown, but He will not let us go through the reaping alone.

Thank you God for teaching me the right way to live. I confess that I am stubborn and don’t always think about the seeds that I am planting. Thank you for being faithful and patient with me as I learn Your ways. Help me to slow down and think before I plant. I want to be more like Jesus. I want to sow encouragement, hope, goodness and love into the lives of others. Please help me to nurture the good seeds that you have already planted. Please give me discernment to see the bad seeds and get rid of them before they take root. All of this I ask in Jesus name. Amen.

Hugs,

Lynnette

In Sickness and In Health

Photographer: Arvind Balaraman

This last week has been draining. My little one has been sick. As every mom knows, when one of yours is sick, Mom's life is put on hold. My days were spent, cuddling (which I love), taking temperatures, dispensing medicine, calling doctors, going to doctors appointments, changing sheets and dirty clothing (which I don't love) and praying. My nights were similar. I didn't sleep well as I listened for little voices, coughs and sneezes. I spent time on the floor next to the bed holding a cool cloth on his forehead, soothing him and praying for healing.

As I was doing my Bible study this weekend, I identified with an unusual character: Abraham's servant (Genesis 24). We don't know much about this man, as a matter of fact, we don't even know his name. We do learn, however, that he was very dedicated to Abraham. When Abraham had an important errand, he called on his oldest [longest employed] servant. The servant put everything else aside so that he could go and find a wife for his master. I recognize that it is easier to do the right thing when his master was there, but in verse 33, we learn that the servant, again, put his master's needs ahead of his own. This servant was a man of character.

It is difficult to continually give of ourselves. It goes against our nature to put others needs ahead of our own. As my second child started showing signs of the same illness, I started to feel resentful. I had already spent a week waiting on one child. All of my work had suffered as my schedule (and sleep) revolved around getting my child healthy. Now another one?

How did Abraham's servant continue to give?

In verse 12, I learned the secret to his success. He prayed. Although his words seem to suggest that he did not believe in God, his prayer language actually reinforces the respect that he has for Abraham. When God answers his request, the servant stopped and worshiped God (verse 26). The servant recognized that God was the reason for his success. Someone who is living through the faith of someone else would not take the time to recognize or worship the giver of the gift.

Dear friends, let us love one another, for love comes from God. Everyone who loves has been born of God and knows God. Whoever does not love does not know God, because God is love. We love because he first loved us. - 1 John 4:7-8,19


Author Erin Smalley said it best. "You and I cannot generate a single drop of love. It all comes from God. By receiving God, we receive His love. We can then open our hearts and share love with others. Loving feels good to us, but we are just passing on what we've received from God."

Being a servant to someone else is the best way of loving them and expressing the love that God gave us.

You, my brothers and sisters, were called to be free. But do not use your freedom to indulge the flesh; rather, serve one another humbly in love. - Galatians 5:13

I will continue today to love a second child back to health. I cannot do it alone, however. I will pray and worship the one who has enabled me to love.

Thank you Lord, for teaching me through the most unlikely person. You are so faithful in meeting my needs even before I realize what is needed. Thank you for loving me and teaching me to love. Thank you for sending your Son to serve us even when we were not worthy of His service. Amen.

God loves a Cheerful Giver

Christmas is officially over in our home. All of the presents have arrived and have been opened. I woke yesterday morning to a home cluttered from one end to the other. Toys, boxes, wrapping paper, gift bags and packing material were strewn throughout the kitchen and living room. My kids rooms were heaped with their Christmas bounty. Now the fun part I thought, trying to find homes for all of the new toys. We have cut back in the last couple of years. Each of us only receives three gifts. "If it was good enough for baby Jesus, then it is good enough for you," has been our traditional mantra. But, those three gifts do not include the gifts from our extended family. We have been blessed by generous givers. I am grateful for all that we have received, but I can't help to think about the families who are not as "blessed."

Back in October, I sat down with my journal, inspired by a book I had just read. The writer encouraged me to make a list of my dreams for the next ten years. Please note, I said dreams, not goals. Dreaming, involves thinking big! Without being concerned about time, money or education, what are your dreams? One of mine was to sponsor two children through Compassion International. As a stay at home mom, this was a big dream. I have been wanting to (and felt called to) do this for so long, but my lack of faith in God's provision, and selfishness, kept me from making the commitment. As I sat there looking at my list, I re-read each of the dreams, the Holy Spirit began nudging me. "Trust in the Lord." "Have faith."

About six months ago, I started watching my niece a couple of days each week. The extra money was nice, I was saving and tithing and then spending the rest on myself. I felt like God was encouraging me to give more and I quickly agreed. I felt that helping two other children would be a better use of my money than buying another pair of unnecessary shoes for myself.

I am not sharing this story because I want everyone to know what I am doing, I am sharing this story because of the blessings we have received since sponsoring Swando and Sheva. I encouraged my kids to  get involved from the beginning. My little man, picked a boy only three days younger than himself. My daughter picked a little girl who shares the same birth-month. Both children happen to be from Indonesia. We read about each child and spent time choosing the child that seemed to "feel right" for my kids. We talked about the homes and environments the children live in. We talked about their families and the jobs that the children are expected to perform. I explained to my kids that I would sponsor the children monetarily, but it would be their responsibility to correspond and pray for their child. The praying started that evening. My son prayed for food and fresh drinking water, my daughter prayed for safety and that her child would be able to attend school (she wasn't).

Swando

Sheva

About two weeks after sponsoring the children, my son received a packet that included a picture, and information about his child. My daughter did not receive hers. After waiting patiently, I eventually called and discovered there had been a mix-up with my daughters child, they assured me that the packet would be sent immediately. We waited another two weeks for the packet. During that time, my son received his first letter from Sheva. The letter gave us all of his personal information, such as who lives in his home, his favorite food, his favorite Bible story (David & Goliath, the same as my son) and also specific prayer requests. We were thrilled to know more about him and to have a personal connection.

Last week as we were getting ready for the holiday, I asked my children to clean their rooms. The whining, tears and drama started immediately. I sent both of them to their rooms, so that I could compose myself rather than lose my "cool". After a short time-out for me, and them, I called them to the couch for a little discussion. "What do you think Swando and Sheva are doing today"? They looked at me blankly. I continued, "well, I know what they are not doing.""They are not cleaning their rooms." The families in the underprivileged parts of Indonesia often live in cardboard houses with tin roofs. My children knew this. We continued our discussion about the kinds of toys that Swando and Sheva have and the jobs they are expected to complete, not for payment, but for their families' well being. I wanted them to realize that we are blessed to be living where we do and that it is not a punishment to clean their rooms, it is a privilege. The kids went to clean.


From everyone who has been given much, much will be demanded; and from the one who has been entrusted with much, much more will be asked. -Luke 12:48b

I am thankful that God has given me the responsibility of raising and teaching my children. I am thankful that God gave us the resources to sponsor Swando and Sheva and for opening our eyes to people other than ourselves.

Pure and genuine religion in the sight of God the Father means caring for orphans and widows in their distress and refusing to let the world corrupt you. - James 1:27 (NLT) (emphasis mine)

I refuse to believe that sponsoring these children won't make a difference. My kids and I are proof that it does. 

"The religious leaders hated Jesus because he broke the rules in order to help people and refused to condemn anyone for anything other than being unloving." - Alice Smith

On Christmas Eve I went out to get the mail before leaving for church. As I came into the house, I handed my daughter an envelope. "Merry Christmas," I said. "Is it from Swando," she asked excitedly. It was her first letter, an introduction, including her favorite foods, her parents names and favorite Bible story (also David and Goliath). On the back, was a special note and prayer requests. "Please pray for my upcoming exam, that I will do well." "She's in school?" My daughter could not contain her excitement or tears of joy for someone other than herself.

Thank you Lord for blessing us. Thank you for your provision and grace. Thank you for opening our eyes to your world. Please continue to teach me and our family how to give and love. Help us to see the world as you see it. Help us to love everyone as you love them. Help us to give with a cheerful heart, out of the abundance that you have already given us. In the precious name of your Son, Jesus. Amen.

Circle of Friends, Part 2

The previous post titled: Circle of Friends is actually a devotional that my favorite cheerleader and I put together. It was a collaboration of ideas and personal experiences. I decided that I needed to write a follow-up to explain my friendship experiences and how my actions affected each of the circles.

God created us to need other people. In Genesis 2:18, God said, "it is not good for man to be alone", and I have felt that need for a long time. I patiently waited and prayed for a number 5 friendship in my life. I believe I was trying too hard to fit people from the 3's into the 4's and I think my pursuit of deeper relationships came across as being needy.

Another stumbling block for me was that, I wasn't comfortable being me and so, in every situation I tried to make myself be the person others would want to be with. Unlike Gidget, I am not an outgoing, flamboyant red-head. It is easy for me to get lost in the crowd. For so long, I tried to change my personality so that I would fit into any situation. But, like last year's jeans, it was really uncomfortable and it never really worked for me. I was never truly transparent with my thoughts and feelings and that made it difficult for people to befriend me. I didn't know who I was, so how could I expect others to know me?

I wanted so much to be liked, but I often found myself being forgotten or excluded. The loneliness multiplied.

My life has changed in the last several years. I owe it all to my new relationship, with my best friend, Jesus. When I sought him first (Matthew 6:33), everything else began to fall into place. He began chipping away all of the hurt and lies that I was clinging to. He showed me that:
   He created me in His image (Genesis 1:26-27)
   He created me on purpose with specific traits (Psalm 139:13)
   He has a specific plan for my life that will bring Him glory (Ephesians 1:11-14)
   He always loves me just as I am (Ephesians 1:4-6).
With Jesus, I am safe. He never hurts me or ignores me. He cries when I cry. He holds me when I need comfort. And of course, He is the first to joke or laugh when I get too serious. I know who I am now, I am free to be the person He made me.

My relationship with Jesus has freed the people around me. I am no longer looking to my friends to fill the place that only He can fill. My marriage has benefitted most from my new foundation in Christ. I was looking to the wrong person to keep me grounded and happy and fulfilled. A person can't do that. Humans are imperfect. As hard as we try, our feelings, temptations and moods get in the way of our relationships with other people. We end up hurting one another even when we don't mean to. Seeking fulfillment from the only one who can truly give it enables me to love others without fear of rejection or a hurt that won't go away.

He fills me, so that I can give that love to others. Any relationship that is worth having, is going to take work, effort and love. Whether it is a friendship or a marriage, you will get out of it what you put into it. I'm not saying that every relationship only needs more work to succeed. There are relationships that just don't work. There comes a time when you have to seriously consider whether your efforts are paying off. When the respect, love and friendship is not reciprocated, there is a clear break in the circle.

This week, while writing this devotional, it was necessary for me to look at one of my relationships that has taken a nose-dive off the edge of the circle. I can't continue to reach out to someone who has already moved on. I wanted to care for someone and heal them. I realized that I was being selfish. In trying to help them, I only really wanted to make myself feel better about letting them go. I also realized, that I was trying to take the place of God in this person's life. He is the Healer, not me. So, I will let go of this cherished friend for now. I will continue to pray for healing and restoration of this relationship. Although I am sad, I feel blessed by the time that we walked together and maybe our journey will cross again someday.

Friendships enrich our lives and make all things bearable. They are well worth the time and effort.

Lord, I thank you for your friendship. Thank you for sending your son to teach me how to truly be a friend. I know that it will not always be easy to be friends with other people. Please help me to be kind, loving, forgiving, generous and patient. Help me to reach out of my comfort zone and connect with other people. Show me where I am looking to the wrong person for friendship and please help me love the 4’s and 5’s in my life (or bring more if needed). I know that you will always be my very best friend and no one can take your place at the center of my Circle of Friends. I love you and look forward to our future together. Amen.

My Experience as a Lotion Lady

I got to wash feet last night. (Jesus washes the disciples feet, John 13)

Ok, not really, but that is what I first thought of when our church put out the request for "Lotion Ladies". During the large shows at Christmas and at Easter, our church, stations ladies in the Women's bathroom. The sole purpose and responsibility of these ladies is to dispense lotion to women as they leave the bathroom.

I will admit it sounds slightly shady and maybe a little creepy to hang out in the bathroom all night waiting for visitors. However, I was eager to help. Last year at Christmas, I experienced the Lotion Ladies for the first time. As I was leaving the bathroom, a nice woman close to my mom's age offered me some lotion. Really for me? I thought to myself. It was nice smelly lotion from Bath and Body Works. Of course, I would love some lotion! My mom, sister and I left the bathroom, with our spiritual cups filled a little more. It was a simple gesture, but one that left a large impression.

So, when the request for help came this time, I was happy to participate. I contacted the coordinator of the Lotion Ladies, and then doubt set in. I started re-thinking my hasty offer to volunteer. It had been great to receive the lotion, but what if giving wasn't quite as great. Previous work with the public has left a bitter taste in my mouth. Some people can be quite .... u-hem ... unpleasant. And then, what about the perfume ladies at the mall? I will be honest, when I see them, I run in the opposite direction. But, for the moment, I set my fears aside.

Last night, filled with apprehension, I went and checked myself through security to get to the place where I would be stationed for the evening. I walked into the bathroom and quickly found my spot. Waiting for me between the exit door and the sinks, was a stool and three bottles of lotion. One was unscented and two were the wonderful smelly lotion from Bath and Body Works. I got settled on my stool and waited.

The first woman came into the bathroom and I felt weird! Where do I look? I can't watch her walk into a stall! Don't make eye contact yet. Ugh, what was I thinking? She came out and I smiled. I wasn't really sure what to say. Ugh, this is uncomfortable. She finished washing her hands and I meekly asked if she would like some lotion. Her face lit up! "Really?" She asked, shocked and pleased. She accepted, said thank you and left.

After that first awkward encounter, the evening improved. With each pump of the lotion, I felt a little more comfortable. I began joking with the ladies, welcoming them to our church and sending wishes to "enjoy the show".

There were so many different reactions. Some were eager. Some were shocked. Some were embarrassed. Some declined. Many were grateful, "I needed lotion, thank you."

As women offered their cupped hands towards me, I really began looking. There were so many beautiful hands. New ones and old ones. Long fingers and short. Pretty painted nails and short ones that had seen hard work. Each of those hands were filled with stories and so much love.

Jesus loves you. Do you know how much? I never said it. But I prayed it several times as I was pumping lotion. He does love each of us without measure. I hope that some of the women and girls got the message last night. Not because of the lotion, but because of the great Christmas story that they experienced, first hand, at the show. Jesus is truly the best gift we could ever receive and it is even better when we give Him to others.

At the end of my post, I left the bathroom, my spiritual cup overflowing.

Out of his fullness we have all received grace in place of grace already given. John 1:16

Father, thank you for your abundant gifts. Thank you for your grace that I cannot earn on my own. Thank you for your mercy when I deserve punishment. Thank you for the ultimate gift of your son, Jesus. Lord, I do not know all of the women who have touched my life. But, you know each of them by name. Please call each of them into a deeper relationship with you. Please bless them abundantly and fill them with your love. I love you for calling me and filling me so that I can freely give to others. Please open my eyes to the people in my life that might need more of your love and enable me to love them. Amen.

Lessons from the Lions Den

Daniel was a good man. He sought God and obeyed His commands. God had a plan for Daniel. King Belshazzar needed information and none of the wise men in his courts could help him. Someone suggested Daniel. Daniel was brought to the king, and by seeking God, Daniel was able to provide the information the king desired. From that moment, he continued to do well within the courts. He impressed the king’s successor and became even more successful.

Daniel was thriving in his work! In that time and in our time, success often comes with a target for you to wear. Daniel entered his “first lion’s den”. The other people in his “office” became jealous.

Be alert and of sober mind. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour. 1 Peter 5:8 

There was talk of promotion and that did not sit well with the others. They decided that Daniel had to go. They watched every move he made in order to catch him doing something illegal or to compromise his character. They found nothing. Daniel was a person of integrity.

The coworkers decided the only thing that would cause Daniel to fall would be his dedication to God. The administrators went to the king and encouraged him to make a new law. The law stated that for the next 30 days people should only pray to the king. Anyone caught disobeying this law would be thrown to the lions.

Daniel knew about this new law. But, he was dedicated to God. He continued the Jewish practice of praying three specific times throughout the day. He did not hide his prayer or his beliefs, he continued just as he always had. I believe that Daniel feared God more than he feared man. He did not compromise who he was even with the possibility of death hanging over him.

The authorities reported to the king that Daniel was continuing his daily prayer times. The king liked Daniel and did not want him to be killed. The king tried to find a loophole, but he could not. So, with more pressure from the coworkers, the king sent for Daniel. They threw Daniel into the lions den and as the den was closed the king said, “May your God, whom you serve continually rescue you!” The king did not like that he had sealed the fate of a good man.

At first light, the king rushed to the lion’s den to see if Daniel had made it through the night. Daniel was alive! All of the glory belonged to God. God rewarded Daniel’s dedication and character. The king sent for the men who had wrongly accused Daniel, they were killed. The king also issued a new law that everyone in the kingdom should “fear and reverence the God of Daniel”.

In his time, Daniel was a captive, a prisoner, but today he was my teacher. There are so many things I can learn from Daniel.

Jealousy is an ugly thing! It makes us act and behave ugly. It makes us say things we wish we hadn’t. It makes us do things we often regret. Jealousy is not of God. It is human nature and it is difficult to fight that nature alone.

I need to work on being happy for others when they are blessed or when they are successful. By seeking God, I will be filled with the Holy Spirit and the fruit that He provides. When I am filled with His love, I can love others and honestly share in their success.

In the face of adversity Daniel did not compromise his character. Integrity is a beautiful thing! It is refreshing to see someone so faithful to God that he is willing to put his life in jeopardy rather than stop worshipping Him.

I need to work on being true to who I am in Jesus. He has changed me for the better. I am not perfect and I won’t be as long as I am on Earth, but I am better with Him than I am without Him.

In a world full of lies and deceit it is easy to get caught up in all of it. It is often easier to pretend I am someone else rather than risk being looked at as a “Jesus freak”. It is often easier to go along with the crowd rather than stand up and say, “These are my beliefs and I will follow them at any cost”.

I need to work on being more afraid of God than of people. I doesn’t matter if I lose my social standing or the worldly image that others want to see. What truly matters is that I am seeking Him first.

Watch out that you do not lose what you have worked for, but that you may be rewarded fully. 2 John 1:8 

Lord, I thank you for providing such great examples in Your Word. I praise you that an event from 2600 years ago is still applicable to my life. Only you could accomplish such a magnificent feat. Thank you for teaching me lessons that bring me closer to you and closer to the plan that you have prepared for me. Please help me to become a person of integrity who is dedicated to you and not ashamed to say “I love my God and will follow Him at any cost”. In Jesus precious name. Amen. 

Hugs,

Lynnette

Mulligan Anyone?

My husband gets up before the sun and is gone before I have even rolled over. Today, however, his schedule is different. I am in the bathroom getting ready and my dear husband comes in to brush his teeth. We don't usually have these morning bathroom meetings. I am instantly irritated. He moves in front of me to reach for the medicine cabinet. I smile (not so sweetly) and move to the side. In my mind: really? why does he have to be in here now? ugh! how many times does he have to open and close the cabinet? I am using that mirror!

After brushing his teeth, he says goodbye and gives me a kiss. I am anything but nice as I offer my cheek and respond with a "bye". And then he is gone. I am alone again with my thoughts. Why did I do that? He was only in here for two minutes and I couldn't be gracious and share?

I am reminded of my kids fighting over the sink, pushing each other off of the step stool. "I was here first," one of them shouts and someone usually ends up crying. I step in to play referee. "Be nice, take turns, you can share" I tell them. Easy to say and not always easy to do.

I am reminded of Paul. Why do I do the things I hate to do and not the things I want to do? (Romans 7:15) That is not really the way I want to send my husband into the world for the day. I don't want his last interaction with me to be filled with irritation and attitude. He needs to know that I love him, that I am here for him and that I am willing to be his partner in whatever life brings. Even if that means sharing the bathroom.

I run to the kitchen where he is gathering his belongings to take to the car . I give him a pat. He stands up and looks at me confused. I throw my arms around him and give him a kiss. This one is filled with love and hope. He looks at me even more confused now. "What was that for?" He asked. "I just wanted you to know I love you," I stated.

We all need a mulligan from time to time. Maybe we are short with a response. Maybe words spoken are not filled with love and grace. Maybe we lose our temper. Maybe we are angry about a situation and take it out on an innocent bystander. Maybe we think we are right.

Photo by Bill Longshaw

We can have a do-over. When we find ourselves in this situation, we can immediately say "wait, that isn't what I meant". "Let me try that again."

How much better would our world be?

How much better would our marriage be?

How much better would our parenting be?

Lord, thank you for always knowing the kindest way to talk to us. Thank you for sending your son to be an example for us. Please teach me how to interact the way that Jesus did. I want my conversations to be full of grace and seasoned with salt, so that I know how to talk with everyone (Col 4:6). Please help me overcome any stronghold of pride that would keep me from admitting my mistakes and trying again. I want to shine your light in the world today. Amen.

Hold on tight

I woke up this morning thinking about Job. At the risk of my mom tuning out, I decided to write about it anyway. She does not like Job. But every time I tried to think different thoughts, he kept coming back to my mind. So, here we are.

The last two weeks have been unusually dark. Our lives have been filled with loss, death, young families being torn apart by divorce, cancer and even horror. It has not all happened, directly to our family, but it has come uncomfortably close to our door step. So, you can see why I was thinking about Job. He lost everything. His livelihood and all of his children were taken in a matter of a few short verses (Job 1:13-19). 

At times like this, it would be very easy to start questioning God. How could He let this happen? Where is the sense in this tragedy? 

At times like this, it would be very easy to start blaming God. Why would He do this? How can He hurt His children?

But, we need to take a step back. 

Job 1: 6-12

One day the angels came to present themselves before the LORD, and Satan also came with them.  The LORD said to Satan, “Where have you come from?”

Satan answered the LORD, “From roaming throughout the earth, going back and forth on it.”

Then the LORD said to Satan, “Have you considered my servant Job? There is no one on earth like him; he is blameless and upright, a man who fears God and shuns evil.”

“Does Job fear God for nothing?” Satan replied. “Have you not put a hedge around him and his household and everything he has? You have blessed the work of his hands, so that his flocks and herds are spread throughout the land. But now stretch out your hand and strike everything he has, and he will surely curse you to your face.”

The LORD said to Satan, “Very well, then, everything he has is in your power, but on the man himself do not lay a finger.”

Then Satan went out from the presence of the LORD.

It wasn't God that attacked Job, it was Satan. During dark and difficult times, we need to remember that we live in a fallen world. This is no longer the Garden of Eden where everyone is good and honest and forthcoming. There is sin, sickness and pain. There are other forces at work here.

Ephesians 6:12

For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms.

It is so easy to dwell in this darkness, to be caught up in all the scary details and questions. During these Job moments we just need a glimmer of hope. At these times, I feel like anything good will be the fresh air that I need to keep pressing on.

Mark 5:21a, 25 - 33

When Jesus had again crossed over by boat to the other side of the lake,

A large crowd followed and pressed around him. And a woman was there who had been subject to bleeding for twelve years. She had suffered a great deal under the care of many doctors and had spent all she had, yet instead of getting better she grew worse. When she heard about Jesus, she came up behind him in the crowd and touched his cloak, because she thought, “If I just touch his clothes, I will be healed.” Immediately her bleeding stopped and she felt in her body that she was freed from her suffering.

At once Jesus realized that power had gone out from him. He turned around in the crowd and asked,“Who touched my clothes?”

“You see the people crowding against you,” his disciples answered, “and yet you can ask, ‘Who touched me?’ ”

But Jesus kept looking around to see who had done it. Then the woman, knowing what had happened to her, came and fell at his feet and, trembling with fear, told him the whole truth. He said to her,“Daughter, your faith has healed you. Go in peace and be freed from your suffering.”

I can remember a time not so long ago that I was on my knees praying, I knew, that if I could just touch the hem of his cloak, I would be ok. During the times of sadness, we have a choice to make. We can sit and soak in the darkness or we can push through the crowd and reach out to Him. It may be desperation or determination, but either way, our faith in Him is what leads to healing.

I have hope. My God is bigger than any of the bad things that are happening around us. He is still in control. He is always good. He cannot do anything that is not based in love. He can turn the bad things around and use them for our good or the good of others.

I had a glimmer this weekend. My little sister got married. The wedding was wonderful. We had so much fun as a family. She looked beautiful and she married a good Christian man. I know that they will have rough seasons in their marriage. Two people walking through life together is not always an easy journey. The best thing they have going for them is their love of Jesus. I know that they will make it through the dark times, because I know they will push through the crowd and grab hold of his cloak.

Lord Jesus, thank you for making yourself available to us when we need you most. You are never too busy or too far away. When we reach out to you, you are faithful to turn to us, look right at us and provide the healing that we need. Thank you for blessing us with your presence and your love. Thank you for your comfort in a world that doesn't make sense. Amen.

Buried Treasure

You never know when God is going to show up. Earlier this week, I was mindlessly going about my morning routine. I pulled the basket out of the coffee pot to throw away the old grounds, and then opened the cupboard to pull out the garbage can. I was caught of guard. First, there was a fresh garbage bag, which doesn't often happen. We play the game of garbage balancing in our home. You may be familiar with this game, the rules are simple, just put your garbage on top and if it topples over, you have to take out the trash. But, second, in the bottom of the can was a little treasure!

My daughter is in first grade this year. She is really enjoying reading and writing. She has truly found freedom and fulfillment in sounding out words, putting sentences together and then drawing pictures to go with them. She spends most of her free time making books or writing stories. The treasure that I found in the garbage belonged to her. I garbage picked it!

The words weren't spelled correctly and usually, I can sound it out to understand what she is writing, but this time I couldn't do it. I got most of it, but not the whole thing. I set it aside, in a prominent place, so that I could be sure to ask about it later.

The morning routine was crazy, I didn't have a spare minute to talk with her about it. I needed more than just a quick answer, I wanted to have a conversation with her. It stayed on top of the microwave for the day. Every time I walked past, I looked at it and tried to unscramble the message. Similar to a puzzle that you can't walk away from, it was in the back of my mind all day. I couldn't wait until she got home. 

After she had a few minutes to unwind from the busyness of the day, I picked up the piece of paper, handed it to her and asked her to read it to me. 

"I follow my heart. Step, by step, by step. You will make it right for me." 

"Did you hear that somewhere?" I asked. 

"No" she replied, "I was just writing a song, and I made it up." 

My next question,"why did you throw it away?"

"I messed up", she said sadly. 

Some of the wise will stumble, so that they may be refined, purified and made spotless. Daniel 11:35

I was silenced. Her words were so simple and yet, so true. How many times have we been following God along the path and we mess up. We don't know how to undo what we have done so instead, we throw it away.

Again I ask: Did they stumble so as to fall beyond recovery? Not at all! Romans 11:11a

I made my request. "Can I have this?"

"Sure." Pause.  "Why?" She wondered.

"I like it. I want to write about it. Is that okay?"

"Yes", she smiled.

though he may stumble, he will not fall, for the LORD upholds him with his hand. Psalm 37:24

God placed it on my heart to use this as a teachable moment. "You know, God loves us all the time. Even when we mess up. There is nothing we can do to make Him stop loving us. If we apologize and ask Him for forgiveness, He always forgives us."

"I know, Mom", she said. As she rolled her eyes and walked away.

I instruct you in the way of wisdom and lead you along straight paths. Prov 4:11

I could have taken offense, but I didn't. She heard me. It will be there when she needs it most.

in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight. Prov 3:6

Father, I praise you for your goodness, favor and mercy. Thank you for loving me so perfectly. I know that I am human and I am going to make mistakes. But, I also know that you forgive every one of them. I am grateful for your wisdom, guidance, knowledge and for all of the times you have picked me up and put me back on your perfect path. Amen.

Life. Some assembly required.

This past weekend, I went to a fundraiser for the firefighters who were recently hurt in a Detroit business fire. The fundraiser featured several local rock bands and was held in a bar. This used to be a comfortable place for me, but in the last several years, places and scenes like this have become increasingly more uncomfortable. But, we had friends injured in that fire who are struggling to regain their lives and so, we have made an effort to support them whenever we are able.

I sat on a stool surrounded by my husband and friends and I began to look around and do some people watching. I saw people of many ages and a true mixture of styles. I have been making jewelry since high school, and so this is often one of the first things I look at. I was surprised to note a great number of crosses. It stirred my soul. I began really thinking about it.

What does the cross mean to you? 

As my journey progresses, I would answer this question differently now than I would have even a year ago. The more that I understand and live, the more that the cross represents to me.

How has your life changed since accepting Jesus? 

Accepting Jesus is the first part of our journey and for most, it is the easiest part. This however, is just the beginning. If we accept Jesus today and then go about our lives the same way we did yesterday, we are missing the point.

Therefore let us move beyond the elementary teachings about Christ and be taken forward to maturity (Hebrews 6:1, NIV) 

On the radio this week, the DJ said, “Christian means little Christ”. We are supposed to become more like Christ and be little Christ’s in the world. Everyday, we need to work to be more like Him. For me, this has been the hard part. 

Imagine if I gave you a pile of materials like wood, screws, nails and various tools and then I said “I will give you one million dollars if you build a birdhouse”. Piece of cake you think, even without woodworking experience, I can fake my way through this and put together a birdhouse. Even if it is not pretty, it will be functional. “Here is the catch”, I say. “It has to look exactly like mine”. Things just got a little tougher, but bring it on, you think. “Oh, and you don’t get to see mine, and you don’t get any instructions”, I add. At this, your heart might sink. There isn’t much chance that your birdhouse will look exactly like mine, and that million dollars will not be going home with you.

Now, imagine God doing this; “I will give you eternal life if you live a live exactly like I planned for you. But, I’m not going to give you any instructions.” I have lived this way! Struggling with decisions, trying to be a better person through my own strength, wondering what God really wants for me. Life with Him is not supposed to be that difficult.

God gave us the gift of Jesus, some assembly required. The building and assembly, however, is us. God has given us all the instructions and all the tools we need in order to succeed. But, we will never make it if we don’t know what He wants us to do. It is so important to get into His word. Read the instructions that He has given us. Find the tools that He has given us and use them.

We who have run for our very lives to God have every reason to grab the promised hope with both hands and never let go. It's an unbreakable spiritual lifeline, reaching past all appearances right to the very presence of God where Jesus, running on ahead of us, has taken up his permanent post as high priest for us. (Hebrews 6: 18-20, The Message) 

Keep your eyes fixed on Him and on His word. The more we use the gifts He has given, the more we hold on to the promises He has made, the more we will be like Him.

There is always another option with a gift. We can choose to return it.

It is impossible for those who have once been enlightened, who have tasted the heavenly gift, who have shared in the Holy Spirit, who have tasted the goodness of the word of God and the powers of the coming age and who have fallen away, to be brought back to repentance. To their loss they are crucifying the Son of God all over again and subjecting him to public disgrace. Land that drinks in the rain often falling on it and that produces a crop useful to those for whom it is farmed receives the blessing of God. But land that produces thorns and thistles is worthless and is in danger of being cursed. In the end it will be burned. (Hebrews 6: 4-8) 

There are people who have completely rejected the gift of Jesus. They have seen the goodness and the power and have chosen to give it back. Unwanted. It is a scary thought. It leaves me with the same uncomfortable feeling I had this weekend.

Don’t leave this gift in the box. Open it up!

Heavenly Father, I don’t want to waste the gift you have given me. I want to read your instructions, put my life together according to your plan and I want to be more like Jesus. I don’t want to remain unchanged. Please open my eyes, ears, heart and mind to all of your promises. I don’t want them to go unused. Amen. 

Hugs,

Lynnette

I don't know anything

What do you know? You don't have the credentials for this. You have never been to school for this kind of thing. I know all of your weaknesses, who do you think you are fooling? How can you tell people this stuff when you are so far from perfect?

These are all things that I heard this week. Earlier, I mentioned the quiet whisper of God and I realized that there is another small voice that I often hear. However, these things are not supportive, encouraging or loving. They are destructive, debilitating and crushing.

Throughout our lives, we hear many different voices talking to us. Parents, grandparents, teachers, friends, spouses, bosses, the media, the enemy. While most of these voices mean well, they may (or do) tell us things that are hurtful.

It is so easy to hear things and accept them as truth.

Now that I think about it, the things above are true. I don't have the credentials to write this blog. I don't have the education to interpret the things of God. I am not good enough on my own to direct people down the path of Jesus.

Don't listen to me... What do I know?

Looking back over my previous posts, I am the one who needed to hear these things the most. These are the things that God was speaking to me. These are the lessons that I needed (and still need) to learn.

So, what do I do with those bad whispers?

Today I have given you the choice between life and death, between blessings and curses. Now I call on heaven and earth to witness the choice you make. Oh, that you would choose life, so that you and your descendants might live! Deuteronomy 30:19 (NLT)

I have a choice to make. 

I can quit writing. I can go back to my shelter, where my life was hidden. I can stop sharing my story, my struggle, my experience. I lived there for a long time. It was comfortable and it is not that far from here.

Or.

I can continue down this unknown path. Through my lack of education, I can continue to share. I can tell you about my ups and my downs. Perhaps they will help you, perhaps they are only helping me.

Remember how the LORD your God led you all the way in the wilderness these forty years, to humble and test you in order to know what was in your heart, whether or not you would keep his commands. Deuteronomy 8:2

I know that God is leading me. There are things that I have written that I know did not come from me. He has placed things on my heart and at times I feel I will burst if I don't write them down and share. I pray every time, before I write a word. Please God, let these be your words and not mine.

Brothers and sisters, think of what you were when you were called. Not many of you were wise by human standards; not many were influential; not many were of noble birth. But God chose the foolish things of the world to shame the wise; God chose the weak things of the world to shame the strong. God chose the lowly things of this world and the despised things—and the things that are not—to nullify the things that are, so that no one may boast before him.  It is because of him that you are in Christ Jesus, who has become for us wisdom from God—that is, our righteousness, holiness and redemption. Therefore, as it is written: “Let the one who boasts boast in the Lord.” 1 Corinthians 1:26-31

Today, dear friends I am boasting in the Lord. It is Him and not me! I am foolish, weak and lowly. He is all knowing and all loving. These are things I will never be. But, I will choose to be obedient!

Lord, I thank you for being good all the time. Thank you for always knowing what is best for me. I am nothing without you. Thank you for teaching me, for encouraging me and for leading me. I seek to serve you as Jesus served. I love you and I give you all that I am, even in my weakness. Amen.

My Story

I have had three people within the last week mention "your story" or "your testimony". Around here, we call that an echo from God. Perhaps He is trying to tell me something!

Until yesterday, I didn't think I had a testimony. It seems silly now, but there wasn't a big life changing experience or a flash of lightning. After some reflection, I don't think that testimonies have to be that way. Some are big and exciting and "flashy" and then there is the rest of us. Normal everyday people. With normal everyday stories.

I was raised in the church by Christian parents. We went to church most Sunday's (unless someone was sick or we were out of town) and Sunday School and Vacation Bible School. In High School, I joined the Youth Group and got very involved there with activities and work/mission trips. Then college... I didn't do as well. I didn't completely walk away from God, but I am pretty sure I didn't follow the path that He had planned for me. Looking back, I know that God was with me even though I wasn't seeking Him. He put people in my life that were strong Christians and they were a good influence on me when everything else was so bad. I tried attending church there and did a few times, but it never became habit and it was so easy to just sleep in.

After college, I moved back home. I went back to church with my family and was welcomed with open arms and even taught Confirmation that year. Shortly after moving home, I met my husband and while we were dating, we often attended church. Either his or mine. Looking back at that time, I see now that I still wasn't following God. I did my best and fooled a lot of people including myself. Maybe it wasn't fooling, but ignorance on my part. 

Life went on. I went to church on Sunday and I did my own thing the rest of the week. I thought that was enough. I had the label "Christian". I had accepted Jesus. I knew right from wrong (in my own mind). I tried to be a good person, helping others, not stealing or killing. What more was there? 

This season lasted about seven years. During that time, I almost completely quit going to church. Things did not really start to change until I was trying to get pregnant for the first time. Typical of the season I was in, I didn't turn to God until I needed Him. I was fine on my own, until a crisis appeared. Then, I treated God like my personal Genie. I went through tests and took fertility medication, until I couldn't live with the side effects any longer. A month later, I was pregnant. I would like to say that I had turned to God and said, "You are bigger and You know what is best. I surrender my life to you."  But, I didn't. I thanked God and moved on. 

But, I began thinking (or rather, God placed it on my heart and I finally started to listen) that I needed more.  I wanted my child to have a good foundation. I wanted to give my baby the good morals that I had been given. In my heart, I knew there was something to the "whole church thing", I just didn't know what it was. I began "church shopping". I tried several local churches and decided on the one that was the most comfortable. I got involved with the Children's ministry and made some great friends. We stayed there for almost three years, until the church changed and I no longer felt comfortable. I took a step back to analyze the changes.

On Thanksgiving morning of 2008, I was getting ready to go to dinner at my parents house. I had the TV on for news and background noise. Joyce Meyer came on and that is when things really changed for me. I don't remember what she said exactly, but I was at that point I realized there was something more to church than "religion". That was the turning point for me, I began to find my own faith. For so long, I was living on what my parents said or the way they raised me. It wasn't until I really started doing it for me that I was able to understand what so many others already had and what God wants for all of us. I began to read my Bible, although I didn't understand it, and we found a new church. 

The new church has made a huge difference. I am really being fed the word! I didn't realize how hungry I was until I heard someone who really spoke to me. I also joined a women's Bible study. That has been a big step for me and really encouraged me in my daily walk. I enjoy reading the Bible and reading books that take me deeper in the word. I love being around Christian women who share the same values and beliefs that I do. I miss it when I am not there and have made it a priority in my schedule.

Everyday, I work at being more open about my faith and my Savior. Throughout my life, I hid my faith and beliefs (and still do to some extent) from others out of fear of rejection. What I didn't understand is that our choices are either good or bad. So, fear of rejection from people caused me to reject God. I should have feared Him more than people. I am getting better at it, and stepping out on faith more than ever before. I am trying to be open with my children, so that they will learn that God's opinion is much more important than people's opinion. I am trying to teach them that their faith is not something to hide or be ashamed of. As the women of my Bible studies have taught me, it is in the sharing that we grow.

Those who have known me for a while can appreciate that this blog was a big, scary step. I don't really know where this is all going- meaning the blog. I just felt like this was the direction that He was leading me. I have never been a writer, but it seems like He is using me for something. My wonderful and supportive Mom recently told me, "you don't need to know why, you just need to obey and trust in Him who always knows".

That is the cool thing about God! He is not normal or everyday. He is creative and exciting and unexpected. When we follow Him, our lives are that way too. Looking back, I see that His fingerprints are all over my life! This is not really my story it is our story.

1 Kings 19:11-12 (New Living Translation)

 ¹¹ “Go out and stand before me on the mountain,” the Lord told him. And as Elijah stood there, the Lord passed by, and a mighty windstorm hit the mountain. It was such a terrible blast that the rocks were torn loose, but the Lord was not in the wind. After the wind there was an earthquake, but the Lord was not in the earthquake. ¹² And after the earthquake there was a fire, but the Lord was not in the fire. And after the fire there was the sound of a gentle whisper.

Lord, I am a sinner. On my own, I am not good enough to come into your presence. I believe that Jesus died on the cross to save me from my sins. I believe that he rose and ascended into heaven. Through my belief in Jesus I am able to come to you at the throne. Thank you Abba, that you were faithful when I was fickle. Thank you for pursuing me when I turned away. Thank you for loving me when I was unloveable. Amen.

Have you exercised recently?

I recently read that our faith is something that needs to be exercised in order for it to grow. I will be honest, the mention of the word exercise stirs up many emotions in me and none of them are very good or happy. My husband and my children are very active! They love and play several different sports and they work hard at learning to be better athletes. I am active in other ways. My activities include vigorous cleaning, running up and down stairs to do laundry, running the kids to school or activities and walking up and down the grocery store aisles. I know these are not technically the best way to exercise and they are not really helping my body, but some days that is all I can manage.

So, when I read that we need to exercise our faith, I wasn't entirely happy. But I will say, I was somewhat relieved. I have often wondered how others seem to have so much more faith than I do. It didn't seem right that God would give some an extra helping, while others are getting the leftovers.


Mark 7:24-30
The Faith of a Syrophoenician Woman 
Jesus left that place and went to the vicinity of Tyre. He entered a house and did not want anyone to know it; yet he could not keep his presence secret. In fact, as soon as she heard about him, a woman whose little daughter was possessed by an evil spirit came and fell at his feet. The woman was a Greek, born in Syrian Phoenicia. She begged Jesus to drive the demon out of her daughter. 

"First let the children eat all they want," he told her, "for it is not right to take the children's bread and toss it to their dogs." "Yes, Lord," she replied, "but even the dogs under the table eat the children's crumbs."

Then he told her, "For such a reply, you may go; the demon has left your daughter." She went home and found her child lying on the bed, and the demon gone.

This passage confused me for a while. Why are they talking about dogs and table scraps? There is a  sweet child out there possessed by a demon! Jesus, do something!

But, we need a little background in order to understand this story. He was a Jewish man. She was a Gentile woman. She had two strikes against her. In that time, she was at the bottom of the food chain (the dogs). Women, especially Gentile, women were not supposed to approach a Jewish leader, such as Jesus. But her child was home, suffering. She got word that Jesus was in town, and she had heard stories about the miraculous healings he had performed. She decided that her child was worth going against the social etiquette. She stepped out on faith.

Now, I don't think that Jesus was calling this woman a dog as a put down. I think he was helping her exercise. She had risked coming to see him, which was the warmup part of her exercise. She begged him to heal her daughter, which was the first part of her workout (she was still fresh and motivated). He questioned her request. She had to keep her eyes on her goal. She needed her daughter healed and had faith that he was the one to do it. She asked for just a little bit of what he had and that was the last part of the workout. She could have quit halfway through, but she didn't.

He daughter was healed. Her faith was strengthened. As a woman and a mother, she was heard, recognized and confirmed. But, none of this would have happened if she had stayed home with her daughter hoping for a miracle. God can, and does, perform miracles everyday. But, we have to leave the house! We have to take the first few steps on faith. We have to go out into the world. God is waiting and He is faithful, but it is our choice to get moving!

At times, I go through seasons of faithful exercise, they don't usually last long and then I am back to going without. I feel so much better and stronger when I do get regular exercise, but I don't make it a priority. The same, goes with my faith. There are days I feel strong and others where I haven't done the work.

I have a few things on my to do list that I have been avoiding! I am off to do them now. I am stepping out on faith and I know that God is waiting there for me to show up.

Heavenly Father, you are so good and faithful and patient. Thank you for calling me toward you and helping me grow in your love. Help me to see the opportunities that you have prepared for me, to exercise my faith. I know that you are with me and that you are guiding me through it all. Thank you Jesus, that you know exactly what I need to become more like you. Amen.

Please leave a comment and let me know what you are going to do to exercise today.

BFF

I love that God’s word is so consistent. I still amazes me, that you can take two completely separate books in the Bible, like today’s reading, and find so much commonality. It is comforting to worship a God who is the same yesterday, today and tomorrow (Hebrews 13:8).

In 1 Timothy 6, Paul is warning Timothy and his church of the evil that is spreading through the people around them. In Jeremiah, God is warning the prophet about the growing wickedness that surrounds him. God tells Jeremiah, be careful of everyone around you. In both cases, the questionable people, had turned from God and were seeking the wrong things. They claimed to be good and yet they were going from sin to sin. They loved money and were seeking it more than anything else. They craved material things that would show their status. They sought success according to what others defined as successful.

These warnings came thousands of years ago, and yet they are still true today. It is so easy to listen to the worldly people and messages that surround us. 

“You will be happy when...” 

“To be a success...”

“If you owned...”

With only this little bit of information, it would be easy to start analyzing all of our

relationships, identify the “bad eggs” and toss them out of our lives. But, this is not God’s way. We will never learn to be victorious in a fallen world if we are trying to get rid of our problems instead of learning to overcome them.

So, what are we to do? The answer is simple: B.F.F.

1. Boast- Do not boast of your riches, your successes, or your wisdom. Boast in the fact that you know the Lord, who is kind, just and righteous. (Jeremiah 9:23-24)
2. Flee- I found humor in the fact that Paul says, “we brought nothing into the world, and we can take nothing out of it” (1 Timothy 6:7). All of the material things that the world tells us we “need” to make us happy will still be here when we are gone. These things don’t really matter. “Flee from these things, and pursue righteousness, godliness, faith, love, perseverance and gentleness”.
3. Fight- In a dark world, we have to fight to hold on to truth. “Fight the good fight of faith take hold of the eternal life to which you were called”. (1 Timothy 6:12) We need to know God’s way and hold tight to it.

My husband is a good judge of character. Within the first few moments of meeting someone, he has a fairly good idea of who they are and what they are about. I on the other hand, am not. It takes me a while to know someone and even after being around someone, I am often surprised that they turn out to be completely different than I first thought. It is so hard for me to know who to trust, who to believe and who is truly a person of good character (not just good at acting).

It is hard to find someone who is always a good influence on our lives. But, there is someone we can trust every time, who we can turn to for answers, who will guide us and teach us the right way. God only wants the best for us. He wants to bless us and give us good things, but He will not do it if the cost is our relationship with Him. He wants to be our best friend! He wants to be the first one we reach out to. He wants us to follow Him because He knows what is best for us. The bonus is that the more time we spend with Him, the better women we become.

Lord, I thank you for always wanting the best for me. I don’t want to be a rebellious child. I don’t want to go after the things of this world, but I know at times I do. Please forgive me for the times that I did not seek you first. Please teach me your ways. Change my heart, so that I will pursue righteousness, godliness, faith, love, perseverance and gentleness rather than the material things that do not last. I want to follow in the footsteps of Jesus. I want to seek you first today and everyday. I love you and I thank you for loving me so completely, just as I am. Amen.

Who is your B.F.F? He is calling you right now. 

Hugs,

Lynnette