I suppose you are waiting patiently to find out about my Job Interview. There isn't a lot to tell. From the train to Scripture Union offices, I had a fall, which consequently led to a panic attack; but through the grace of God, as I walked into the interview, all the blood and fears had disappeared.
Unfortunately, although I felt the interview went quite well, I was told I lacked the confidence in my skills for the position. I guess this happens when you lose a job.
I have been a little mad with myself, because I didn't cope very well with this `rejection', even though they were positive and said I had a gentle nature and someday could be a good Chaplain. Consequently for the last week my depression was at an all time low, which as also led to a number of episodes of anxiety.
But, I was determined to leave last week behind me, and start anew. I started my week with my PRAYER, BIBLE READING AND PRAISE, along with a little exercise.
I began reading the book of Ezra, where we find the Israelities afraid and anxious as they attempt to return from exile to rebuild their temple.
"With praise and thanksgiving they sung to the Lord. `He is good;
His love to Israel endures forever.' All the people gave a great
shout of praise to the Lord, because the foundation of the Lord was
laid." Ezra 3:11
This verse reminds me of my Dad. If you read my `In the Palm of His Hands' BLOG you will read a lot about my Dad - a wonderful man of God. After the death of his wife, (my Mum) he raised three little girls, pretty much on his own. Over those years, and for most of his life, he suffered from depression.
But it's not this that I remember most about my Dad, but it was his words of PRAISE. Whether it was at Church singing with gusto those wonderful hymns, speaking words of encouragement to a congegration of seeking people or simply moving through the day with words of prayer on his lips - he would always be PRAISING THE LORD.
In her book, "The Power of Praying through the Bible", Stormie Omartin reminds us:
"When you're struggling, doubting, fearful or feel like your foundation
has crumbled, don't ever underestimate the power of Praise! Don't
just think about it. Do it. Pull out all the stops. Make praise your first
response to fearful situations in your life. God wants us to praise Him
at all times, but especially when we are afraid or discouraged. When
we do, not only will He take away our fear, but He will give us joy."
"I will praise the Lord at all times. I will constantly speak His praises.
I will boast only in the Lord; let all who are discouraged, take heart.
Come let us tell of the Lord's greatness; let us exalt His name together.
I prayed to the Lord and He answered me, freeing me from all my fears.
Those who look to Him for help will be radiant with joy; no shadow of
shame will darken their faces." (Psalm 34:1-5)
REMEMBER, FAITH, PRAYER, PRAISE and the WORD OF GOD will conquer your every fear.
Wednesday, March 23, 2011
Sunday, March 6, 2011
PERFECT TRUST
Tomorrow I face a situation. Not a difficult situation, but for some reason for the last couple of days it has caused me to feel `sick' - you know the headache, stomach and muscle aches and the worst of all is these incontrollable shakes. I guess it could be the symptoms of flu, or it could just be fear.
I have a job interview!! Part of me is telling me not to stress - it doesn't matter whether I get it or not - that's in God's hands. The other part of me is feeling that same old `failure syndrome'. If I don't get it, what will people think of me - a failure again!! Part of me, still wants to be in control.
There are a number of things I do when I feel this way:
1) Pray- CLAIM GOD'S PRESENCE. That's number one of course. There is nothing more calming to the spirit than talking to the Father, telling God about my worry and leaving it with Him.
"Seek first His Kingdom and His righteousness; and all these things shall be added to you." (Matthew 6:33)
2) Read. I go the Bible - RECOUNT GOD'S PROMISES.
"Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lead not on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him and He will direct your paths." Proverbs 3:5-6
"Do not be afraid or discouraged, for the Lord is the one who goes before you. He will be with you; He will neither fail you nor forsake you." Deuteronomy 31:8
I am again reminded that I am to let God take the lead, to take over the controls.
"God will smooth out your path. He'll take away the obstacles. He'll take care of those barriers when you come to them. If you do your part - give Him the steering wheel and trust him to be in charge - He promises to make your path straight." (Charles Swindoll: "Perfect Trust", 2000, Thomas Nelson)
I remember the last time I went for a job as a Chaplain and God said `no, not now", I was comforted by the fact that I had been obedient, and this is what God had asked me to be. I walked in obedience, as best I understod it and followed his will. The failure still hurt at first, but it made it easier to except.
"God honours faith and obedience. When you trust Him completely, you will enjoy inner quietness and security. You will have a secure confidence that you are walking in His will. You will be surrounded by His peace." (Charles Swindoll: "Perfect Trust",2000, Thomas Nelson)
I AM FEELING BETTER ALREADY!!!
3. Listen to Music. PATIENCE. I know I should be listening to my Worship Songs - those great Hillsong hits - but I can't help it, I just love my Doug Horley (UK's favourite Children's Fun & Funky Worship for Kids).
Before I know it I am jumping around and dancing to those promises that God loves me, nothing is too big for His power, and my favourite at the moment, "You are Shaped for Serving God".
"If you walk like a model or walk with a waddle
You are, you are, you're God's indeed.
If you're very, very funny, or good at making money,
You are, you are God's indeed.
God had a brilliant plan when he created man
He knew just how each one would serve Him.
Wonderful indeed, gave you what you need,
To work on earth for Him.
You are shaped for serving God,
You are shaped for serving God,
You are shaped for serving God,
Holy, holy is His name.
If you laugh like a donkey
Or you're hairs a little wonkey
You are, you are, you're God's indeed.
If you're really good at caring
Or a little brave and daring
You are, you are, you are God's indeed.
If you're good at origami,
Or can make a great salami.
You are, you are, God's indeed.
If you're fast as a whippet
Or really good at cricket
You are, you are, God's indeed.
Doug Horley & Steve Whitehouse. (2005, Thankyou).
I AM READY TO FACE WHATEVER GOD HAS IN STORE FOR ME!!
Oh the shakes are still there, and the headache hasn't gone away, but I know that I am girded with the power of God, for I am ready to go forth in obedience to follow His will, and to face whatever He has in store for me. I have claimed God's presence, recounted his promises and now wait patiently on Him, trusting in His provision.
I ENCOURAGE YOU TO DO THE SAME!!
I have a job interview!! Part of me is telling me not to stress - it doesn't matter whether I get it or not - that's in God's hands. The other part of me is feeling that same old `failure syndrome'. If I don't get it, what will people think of me - a failure again!! Part of me, still wants to be in control.
There are a number of things I do when I feel this way:
1) Pray- CLAIM GOD'S PRESENCE. That's number one of course. There is nothing more calming to the spirit than talking to the Father, telling God about my worry and leaving it with Him.
"Seek first His Kingdom and His righteousness; and all these things shall be added to you." (Matthew 6:33)
2) Read. I go the Bible - RECOUNT GOD'S PROMISES.
"Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lead not on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him and He will direct your paths." Proverbs 3:5-6
"Do not be afraid or discouraged, for the Lord is the one who goes before you. He will be with you; He will neither fail you nor forsake you." Deuteronomy 31:8
I am again reminded that I am to let God take the lead, to take over the controls.
"God will smooth out your path. He'll take away the obstacles. He'll take care of those barriers when you come to them. If you do your part - give Him the steering wheel and trust him to be in charge - He promises to make your path straight." (Charles Swindoll: "Perfect Trust", 2000, Thomas Nelson)
I remember the last time I went for a job as a Chaplain and God said `no, not now", I was comforted by the fact that I had been obedient, and this is what God had asked me to be. I walked in obedience, as best I understod it and followed his will. The failure still hurt at first, but it made it easier to except.
"God honours faith and obedience. When you trust Him completely, you will enjoy inner quietness and security. You will have a secure confidence that you are walking in His will. You will be surrounded by His peace." (Charles Swindoll: "Perfect Trust",2000, Thomas Nelson)
I AM FEELING BETTER ALREADY!!!
3. Listen to Music. PATIENCE. I know I should be listening to my Worship Songs - those great Hillsong hits - but I can't help it, I just love my Doug Horley (UK's favourite Children's Fun & Funky Worship for Kids).
Before I know it I am jumping around and dancing to those promises that God loves me, nothing is too big for His power, and my favourite at the moment, "You are Shaped for Serving God".
"If you walk like a model or walk with a waddle
You are, you are, you're God's indeed.
If you're very, very funny, or good at making money,
You are, you are God's indeed.
God had a brilliant plan when he created man
He knew just how each one would serve Him.
Wonderful indeed, gave you what you need,
To work on earth for Him.
You are shaped for serving God,
You are shaped for serving God,
You are shaped for serving God,
Holy, holy is His name.
If you laugh like a donkey
Or you're hairs a little wonkey
You are, you are, you're God's indeed.
If you're really good at caring
Or a little brave and daring
You are, you are, you are God's indeed.
If you're good at origami,
Or can make a great salami.
You are, you are, God's indeed.
If you're fast as a whippet
Or really good at cricket
You are, you are, God's indeed.
Doug Horley & Steve Whitehouse. (2005, Thankyou).
I AM READY TO FACE WHATEVER GOD HAS IN STORE FOR ME!!
Oh the shakes are still there, and the headache hasn't gone away, but I know that I am girded with the power of God, for I am ready to go forth in obedience to follow His will, and to face whatever He has in store for me. I have claimed God's presence, recounted his promises and now wait patiently on Him, trusting in His provision.
I ENCOURAGE YOU TO DO THE SAME!!
Friday, February 4, 2011
Be Careful of `False Prophets'.
Lynn Austin has written a wonderful series of books about the three Kings in the Bible. Having read in 2 Kings 21 about Hezekiah's son Manasseh's rule, I wasn't sure I wanted to read Book 4.
"Manasseh was 12 years old when he became King...... He did what was
evil in the Lord's sight, imitating the detestable practices of the pagan
nations....." 2 Kings 2:1&2.
Hezekiah and been a wonderful King who had faithfully served the Lord. I couldn't understand how his son could be so evil and forget the ways of his father.
In her book, Lynn introduces us to another character Zerah, a supposed medium. As a young man, Manasseh wanted to know about his future. He was easily led astray by Zerah, who was able to twist the Word of the Lord in the Torah. He was able to bring out what we might call today `new age' thinking, and Manasseh was lead to believe that the Priests of the true God were wrong, and that this new way of worshiping was the right way.
"He practiced sorcery and divination, and he consulted with mediums
and psychics." 2 Kings 21:6
The more Mannasseh listened to these mediums and psychics, the more evil he became and the angrier God became with him.
In her `note to the reader', Lynn reminds us that this `so called, New Age movement is centuries old.' These pagan beliefs are rooted in the four lies used by Satan in the Garden of Eden and are not only condemned by God in ancient times, but they still are.
What scares me most though, is how easy it is someone to become lured into practicing these acts. How easy it is for someone to twist scripture and use it out of context. I ask you to be aware, seek God's guidance continually, and don't fall into Satin's trap.
"As believers, we must cling to and protect the purity of our faith entrusted to us while proclaiming the fact that all other religious pratices are false".
"I am the way, the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.'
John 14:16.
"Manasseh was 12 years old when he became King...... He did what was
evil in the Lord's sight, imitating the detestable practices of the pagan
nations....." 2 Kings 2:1&2.
Hezekiah and been a wonderful King who had faithfully served the Lord. I couldn't understand how his son could be so evil and forget the ways of his father.
In her book, Lynn introduces us to another character Zerah, a supposed medium. As a young man, Manasseh wanted to know about his future. He was easily led astray by Zerah, who was able to twist the Word of the Lord in the Torah. He was able to bring out what we might call today `new age' thinking, and Manasseh was lead to believe that the Priests of the true God were wrong, and that this new way of worshiping was the right way.
"He practiced sorcery and divination, and he consulted with mediums
and psychics." 2 Kings 21:6
The more Mannasseh listened to these mediums and psychics, the more evil he became and the angrier God became with him.
In her `note to the reader', Lynn reminds us that this `so called, New Age movement is centuries old.' These pagan beliefs are rooted in the four lies used by Satan in the Garden of Eden and are not only condemned by God in ancient times, but they still are.
What scares me most though, is how easy it is someone to become lured into practicing these acts. How easy it is for someone to twist scripture and use it out of context. I ask you to be aware, seek God's guidance continually, and don't fall into Satin's trap.
"As believers, we must cling to and protect the purity of our faith entrusted to us while proclaiming the fact that all other religious pratices are false".
"I am the way, the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.'
John 14:16.
Tuesday, January 18, 2011
UNDERSTAND WHAT IT MEANS TO BE A SERVANT OF THE KING
As believers some of us are called into ministries that will thrust us into worldwide recognitions. Others of us will be behind the scenes.
I always loved serving together with my husband Mark. We made a good team. I was a Leader, and he worked behind the scenes doing all those things that made my leadership position easier. I loved to TEACH, he loved to HELP. But his work was just as important, him not more important than mine. We were both called to SERVE, using the gifts God has blessed us with.
Every place we go in and everything we do is part of God's great plan. People will come to know the Lord through whatever `ministry' and service he has placed us in.
Many of us, as servants, struggle with pride, the need for recognition and honour. King Hezekiah did. I guess it would be easy too if you were a King in charge of a whole country too. Yet even Jesus' disciples struggled with pride - simple men like you and me. It is encouraging to know that that the disciples needed to learn to serve, but many of us are still in the learning process.
"I tell you the truth, whatever you did for the one of the least
of these brothers, you did it for me." Matthew 25:40
Sometimes, like the disciples, we feel tired and unappreciated. We may not want to change our plans, we like it our way. But we need to follow in the steps of Jesus - our servant.
One thing we can be sure of is that when Jesus calls us to serve, we need to be obedient. Sometimes what God asks us to do may seem too hard. It helps to have Jesus' example.
"My food is to do the will of Him who sent me and to finish His work."
John 4:34
Sometimes we may not feel qualified enough and we will make excuses, just like Moses, Gideon and Jeremiah.
Moses: "What if they do not believe me? O Lord I have never been eloquent. I am slow of speech and tongue."
Sound familiar!
Gideon: "But Lord, how can I save Israel. My clan is the weakest and I am the least in my family"
Ever felt this way!
Jeremiah: "Ah, Sovereign Lord, I do not know how to speak, I am a child."
We are all children!
Jesus did not call us to part-time service. We can't just be Sunday Christians. Every morning when you wake up, pray that God will send people to you who need your help. If we are sensitive to the God's leading, through the Holy Spirit, we will never miss an opportunity to serve.
We are to have a servant's heart so that others may see His love in us. He may be calling you to a new vision, or wants you to persevere in the `ministry' you are in. Whatever it is - remember, BE OBEDIENT - Jesus was. DON'T MAKE EXCUSES - Jesus didn't. Be a FULL TIME SERVANT - Jesus was.
I always loved serving together with my husband Mark. We made a good team. I was a Leader, and he worked behind the scenes doing all those things that made my leadership position easier. I loved to TEACH, he loved to HELP. But his work was just as important, him not more important than mine. We were both called to SERVE, using the gifts God has blessed us with.
Every place we go in and everything we do is part of God's great plan. People will come to know the Lord through whatever `ministry' and service he has placed us in.
Many of us, as servants, struggle with pride, the need for recognition and honour. King Hezekiah did. I guess it would be easy too if you were a King in charge of a whole country too. Yet even Jesus' disciples struggled with pride - simple men like you and me. It is encouraging to know that that the disciples needed to learn to serve, but many of us are still in the learning process.
"I tell you the truth, whatever you did for the one of the least
of these brothers, you did it for me." Matthew 25:40
Sometimes, like the disciples, we feel tired and unappreciated. We may not want to change our plans, we like it our way. But we need to follow in the steps of Jesus - our servant.
One thing we can be sure of is that when Jesus calls us to serve, we need to be obedient. Sometimes what God asks us to do may seem too hard. It helps to have Jesus' example.
"My food is to do the will of Him who sent me and to finish His work."
John 4:34
Sometimes we may not feel qualified enough and we will make excuses, just like Moses, Gideon and Jeremiah.
Moses: "What if they do not believe me? O Lord I have never been eloquent. I am slow of speech and tongue."
Sound familiar!
Gideon: "But Lord, how can I save Israel. My clan is the weakest and I am the least in my family"
Ever felt this way!
Jeremiah: "Ah, Sovereign Lord, I do not know how to speak, I am a child."
We are all children!
Jesus did not call us to part-time service. We can't just be Sunday Christians. Every morning when you wake up, pray that God will send people to you who need your help. If we are sensitive to the God's leading, through the Holy Spirit, we will never miss an opportunity to serve.
We are to have a servant's heart so that others may see His love in us. He may be calling you to a new vision, or wants you to persevere in the `ministry' you are in. Whatever it is - remember, BE OBEDIENT - Jesus was. DON'T MAKE EXCUSES - Jesus didn't. Be a FULL TIME SERVANT - Jesus was.
Thursday, January 13, 2011
Mentors - God's Special Gift.
One of the things I love about reading Lynn Austin's books is how she brings the characters alive, and of course introduces characters that we don't hear mentioned a lot in the Bible, but still they play an important part in history.
Hezekiah had his right hand men - his Palace Administrators and Secratary. One, was a man of wisdom, but no sense. His name was Shebna, an Egyptian who had been hired by Hezekiah's father to tutor him. Then there was the man who trusted in God, also very wise - his name was Eliakim.
After making a treaty with Babylon and then Egypt, on the advice of Shebna, Hezekiah sat in his room feeling depressed. He realized he had made the wrong decision. He was full of pride and the words of that Eliakim had earlier spoke to him came to his mind:
"The Torah says, Unless the Lord watches over the city, the watchmen stand in vain. We need to put our trust in God."
Hezekiah had been trusting in man, not God, and he had stopped listening to who he truly knew to be his trusted advisor. He had always listed to Eliakim before because he knew he spoke the truth. Eliakim was his MENTOR, God's special gift top Him. Someone he needed to help him stay on track - to follow the Lord's will in His life.
As I said in my first BLOG for 2011, my little box of promises was given to me by my mentor. She may not realize, that even now that I have moved away, this `special gift' is helping to me to follow the most important mentor of all - the Lord.
"The Lord Himself will lead you and he will guide you.
He will not fail you or abandon you, so not lose courage
and to not be afraid."Deuteronomy 3:8
I encourage you, if you haven't already, to find yourself a mentor. Pray about it, as Hezekiah did, and the Lord will lead you to someone you can trust. Most of all, someone who you know you can be honest with and will pray with you. It may be someone in your Home Group or someone in Church that God points out for you. This is how it was for me.
I prayed about it, because I felt I wasn't growing in my Christian life. I needed someone to take my hand and walk with me in what I didn't know then would be a difficult and challenging journey. The next Sunday I looked across the Church - and the Lord pointed her out to me. She wasn't a Church elder, or someone I knew very well; but God said - "I have chosen her as your Mentor". I asked her and she was willing.
We started meeting at McDonalds after work, once a week until that got too expensive. We would read the Bible together, pray; must most of all talk together. You need to be a good listener - both the mentor and the mentee.
Later I started meeting in her home. Pam and I met together for 3 years I believe before I moved away. I know she still prays for me, and she rings me up at least once a month. Most of all though, I my mentor as helped me learn to rely on the Lord and to grow in Him, so that one day I may be a mentor to someone else.
A mentor is God's special gift, someone you need to have, and when the time is right, someone you need to be. But never forget to rely and trust on the greatest mentor of all - our Lord Jesus Christ.
Hezekiah had his right hand men - his Palace Administrators and Secratary. One, was a man of wisdom, but no sense. His name was Shebna, an Egyptian who had been hired by Hezekiah's father to tutor him. Then there was the man who trusted in God, also very wise - his name was Eliakim.
After making a treaty with Babylon and then Egypt, on the advice of Shebna, Hezekiah sat in his room feeling depressed. He realized he had made the wrong decision. He was full of pride and the words of that Eliakim had earlier spoke to him came to his mind:
"The Torah says, Unless the Lord watches over the city, the watchmen stand in vain. We need to put our trust in God."
Hezekiah had been trusting in man, not God, and he had stopped listening to who he truly knew to be his trusted advisor. He had always listed to Eliakim before because he knew he spoke the truth. Eliakim was his MENTOR, God's special gift top Him. Someone he needed to help him stay on track - to follow the Lord's will in His life.
As I said in my first BLOG for 2011, my little box of promises was given to me by my mentor. She may not realize, that even now that I have moved away, this `special gift' is helping to me to follow the most important mentor of all - the Lord.
"The Lord Himself will lead you and he will guide you.
He will not fail you or abandon you, so not lose courage
and to not be afraid."Deuteronomy 3:8
I encourage you, if you haven't already, to find yourself a mentor. Pray about it, as Hezekiah did, and the Lord will lead you to someone you can trust. Most of all, someone who you know you can be honest with and will pray with you. It may be someone in your Home Group or someone in Church that God points out for you. This is how it was for me.
I prayed about it, because I felt I wasn't growing in my Christian life. I needed someone to take my hand and walk with me in what I didn't know then would be a difficult and challenging journey. The next Sunday I looked across the Church - and the Lord pointed her out to me. She wasn't a Church elder, or someone I knew very well; but God said - "I have chosen her as your Mentor". I asked her and she was willing.
We started meeting at McDonalds after work, once a week until that got too expensive. We would read the Bible together, pray; must most of all talk together. You need to be a good listener - both the mentor and the mentee.
Later I started meeting in her home. Pam and I met together for 3 years I believe before I moved away. I know she still prays for me, and she rings me up at least once a month. Most of all though, I my mentor as helped me learn to rely on the Lord and to grow in Him, so that one day I may be a mentor to someone else.
A mentor is God's special gift, someone you need to have, and when the time is right, someone you need to be. But never forget to rely and trust on the greatest mentor of all - our Lord Jesus Christ.
Faith of the Fathers
"God keeps ever promise He makes. He is like a shield for all who seek His protection", Proverbs 30.5
My little `Promise Box' verse was very encouraging this morning. I have actually had it out for the last week, as I have felt I needed to be reminded of His protection over and over again.
Currently I am reading a series of books by Lynn Austin, mainly looking at the life of King Hezekiah and it has been exciting to see how God proctected him - with healing and protection from his enemies - even when he started to take on the nature of his father, nearly falling because of His pride. Book 4, which I haven't go to yet, talks about his son Manasseh, and it is disheartening when you read the Bible and it says: "Mannasseh was 12 years old when he became king. He reigned in Jerusalem 55yrs and did evil in the sight of the Lord." (2 Kings 21:1&2). Unfortunately, unlike His father Hezekiah, Mannasseh did not turn back to the Lord and "he caused Judah to commit similar sins, as they did evil in the sight of the Lord".
In Judges we also read about how the people of Israel continue to let the Lord down, "forgetting the Lord their God and serving Baals and Asherahs". But isn't it great to know that each time they cried out to the Lord, He was faithful to rescue them.
In this case God sent Ehud to be their deliverer (Judges 3:7-30)- in our case He sent His own son Jesus. So often we live our lives like Mannasseh, or the people of Israel, and we forget about the enormous price that Jesus paid so that we could have forgiveness and freedom from our sins and the strongholds that bind us. We can have victory and joy because we have been SET FREE, but not only that we have His on going PROTECTION.
God wants us to "Call upon Him in the day of trouble." He says, "I will deliver you and you will honour me." (Psalm 50:15).
"Hezekiah trusted in the Lord, the God of Israel. There was no one like him among all the kings in Judah. He held fast the the Lord and did not cease to follow Him." (2 KINGS 18;5)
I think I have found another favourite Bible character. Oh, not because he was so good and trusted in the Lord, but when his pride let him down, and he sinned, he knew where to go. When fear enveloped him as he looked at the Assyrian army, he knew where to go. When he was in the depths of depression and sickness, he knew where to go.
My father was a man like this too - when he felt alone and let down (when my Mum died), he knew where to go. When fear enveloped him (as he faced life as a single father), he knew where to go. When depression overcame him, he knew where to go. He went straight to the Lord, and the Lord protected him.
I thank the Lord each day for the faith of our fathers - men like Hezekiah and my Dad. But most of all I thank the Lord for the LOVE OF MY FATHER, AND HIS PROTECTION. Because of them, I know where to go when I have sinned, am afraid or in the depths of depression.
My little `Promise Box' verse was very encouraging this morning. I have actually had it out for the last week, as I have felt I needed to be reminded of His protection over and over again.
Currently I am reading a series of books by Lynn Austin, mainly looking at the life of King Hezekiah and it has been exciting to see how God proctected him - with healing and protection from his enemies - even when he started to take on the nature of his father, nearly falling because of His pride. Book 4, which I haven't go to yet, talks about his son Manasseh, and it is disheartening when you read the Bible and it says: "Mannasseh was 12 years old when he became king. He reigned in Jerusalem 55yrs and did evil in the sight of the Lord." (2 Kings 21:1&2). Unfortunately, unlike His father Hezekiah, Mannasseh did not turn back to the Lord and "he caused Judah to commit similar sins, as they did evil in the sight of the Lord".
In Judges we also read about how the people of Israel continue to let the Lord down, "forgetting the Lord their God and serving Baals and Asherahs". But isn't it great to know that each time they cried out to the Lord, He was faithful to rescue them.
In this case God sent Ehud to be their deliverer (Judges 3:7-30)- in our case He sent His own son Jesus. So often we live our lives like Mannasseh, or the people of Israel, and we forget about the enormous price that Jesus paid so that we could have forgiveness and freedom from our sins and the strongholds that bind us. We can have victory and joy because we have been SET FREE, but not only that we have His on going PROTECTION.
God wants us to "Call upon Him in the day of trouble." He says, "I will deliver you and you will honour me." (Psalm 50:15).
"Hezekiah trusted in the Lord, the God of Israel. There was no one like him among all the kings in Judah. He held fast the the Lord and did not cease to follow Him." (2 KINGS 18;5)
I think I have found another favourite Bible character. Oh, not because he was so good and trusted in the Lord, but when his pride let him down, and he sinned, he knew where to go. When fear enveloped him as he looked at the Assyrian army, he knew where to go. When he was in the depths of depression and sickness, he knew where to go.
My father was a man like this too - when he felt alone and let down (when my Mum died), he knew where to go. When fear enveloped him (as he faced life as a single father), he knew where to go. When depression overcame him, he knew where to go. He went straight to the Lord, and the Lord protected him.
I thank the Lord each day for the faith of our fathers - men like Hezekiah and my Dad. But most of all I thank the Lord for the LOVE OF MY FATHER, AND HIS PROTECTION. Because of them, I know where to go when I have sinned, am afraid or in the depths of depression.
Saturday, January 8, 2011
ENERGIZED FOR SERVICE
I don't know what to expect in my life right now, but I am looking forward to where God wants to send me. I am always ready and open for the unexpected; but I still need to trust the Lord for His strength; because I am still rather weary and tired.
The last few weeks going to Church has been a chore. By the time the service has ended I have been an emotional wreck. Why, in the place where I have always felt at home do I feel alone and unwell?
This morning after Church I started serving in the Church Bookstore, and it was great. I spoke to the Children's Ministry Leader, and I have been put on the Sunday School roster - just once a month for now. She said she looks forward to working with someone who has experience in Children's Ministry. I just feel excited about how the Lord can use me again and I am becoming more energized for service.
I know I need to be careful not to do too much. I need to be careful to make sure I am not making all these plans and not leaving my life in God's hands. I want my service to be authentic service. How can I know that it is?
1) IT FLOWS NATURALLY OUT OF WORSHIP.
Service that pleases God is a heartfelt response to what He Has done for me. Authentic service is a genuine attempt to say `Thank You' to God.
"So dear Christian friends, I plead with you to give your bodies as a living
sacrifice - the kind He will accept. When you think of what He has done for
you, is this too much to ask." Romans 12:1 (NLT)
2) IT TAKES INTO ACCOUNT YOUR SPIRITUAL GIFTS.
The Apostle Paul was quick to remind those who were motivated to serve that they shouldn't run out and sign up for the first job that came along. We need to first take time to determine our spiritual gifts. These are the unique abilities God places in each of us that enables us to build and encourage others.
"Like good stewards of the manifold grace of God, serve one another with
whatever gift you have received." 1 Peter 4:9 (NRSV)
3) IT TAKES INTO ACCOUNT YOUR PASSION.
An important element to consider when serving the Lord is your passion. James Dobson, founder of `Focus on the Family', has a passion for the family. Don Moen - one of my favourite singer/songwriters and worship leaders, has a passion to bring people together in worship and praise. Billy Graham had a passion for the lost and was a great evangelist. Once you have determined your passion, think of ways you can serve - again to encourage and build others up.
* What group of people do you feel most attracted to? When deciding which class to take in Sunday School, I always go for the Middle Primary age. Why - I know from experience that Toddlers and Junior Primary children don't relate to me, and I definetely can't relate to them.
* What area of need is of ultimate importance to you? Next to sharing the Gospel with children, I see a child in need - socially and intellectualy and I have to do something about it.
* What area of the Church's ministry would you most like to influence? Why did I decide to volunteer in the Bookstore. Someone asked me to - because I was always there, talking to people, sharing my passion for Christian books and music. Why Children's Ministry? Easy - Jesus said, "Let the children come to me and do not hinder them. The Kingdom of God belongs to them. " Luke 18:16 (NIV).
4) IT TAKES INTO ACCOUNT YOUR TEMPERAMENT.
Some people say I am a warm, caring, relational person. I can put others at ease - especially children. I am gentle, non-threatening and encouraging. What are the characteristics of your temperament?
Authentic service pleases God. It delights the one who is being served, and also gives the server a bit of a buzz too. When you are serving for the right reason in the right place, you feel really good and enjoy your service. God wants us to serve in this way.
This morning going to Church was not a chore, I didn't feel depressed. Why? Because my service was a joy, it energized me and most of all I experienced a blessing.
Service is vital part of the Christian life. But to be authentic and energizing it has to flow out of worship and has to fit who God made you to be. I don't know what to expect this year, but I do know that I am a unique individual and God has a special task - energizing service - both in and out of the Church. A special task designed just for me!!
Here's my favourite verse again:
"For I know the plans I have for you", says the Lord, "plans for your
welfare and not for harm, to give you a future and hope."
Jeremiah 29:11
The last few weeks going to Church has been a chore. By the time the service has ended I have been an emotional wreck. Why, in the place where I have always felt at home do I feel alone and unwell?
This morning after Church I started serving in the Church Bookstore, and it was great. I spoke to the Children's Ministry Leader, and I have been put on the Sunday School roster - just once a month for now. She said she looks forward to working with someone who has experience in Children's Ministry. I just feel excited about how the Lord can use me again and I am becoming more energized for service.
I know I need to be careful not to do too much. I need to be careful to make sure I am not making all these plans and not leaving my life in God's hands. I want my service to be authentic service. How can I know that it is?
1) IT FLOWS NATURALLY OUT OF WORSHIP.
Service that pleases God is a heartfelt response to what He Has done for me. Authentic service is a genuine attempt to say `Thank You' to God.
"So dear Christian friends, I plead with you to give your bodies as a living
sacrifice - the kind He will accept. When you think of what He has done for
you, is this too much to ask." Romans 12:1 (NLT)
2) IT TAKES INTO ACCOUNT YOUR SPIRITUAL GIFTS.
The Apostle Paul was quick to remind those who were motivated to serve that they shouldn't run out and sign up for the first job that came along. We need to first take time to determine our spiritual gifts. These are the unique abilities God places in each of us that enables us to build and encourage others.
"Like good stewards of the manifold grace of God, serve one another with
whatever gift you have received." 1 Peter 4:9 (NRSV)
3) IT TAKES INTO ACCOUNT YOUR PASSION.
An important element to consider when serving the Lord is your passion. James Dobson, founder of `Focus on the Family', has a passion for the family. Don Moen - one of my favourite singer/songwriters and worship leaders, has a passion to bring people together in worship and praise. Billy Graham had a passion for the lost and was a great evangelist. Once you have determined your passion, think of ways you can serve - again to encourage and build others up.
* What group of people do you feel most attracted to? When deciding which class to take in Sunday School, I always go for the Middle Primary age. Why - I know from experience that Toddlers and Junior Primary children don't relate to me, and I definetely can't relate to them.
* What area of need is of ultimate importance to you? Next to sharing the Gospel with children, I see a child in need - socially and intellectualy and I have to do something about it.
* What area of the Church's ministry would you most like to influence? Why did I decide to volunteer in the Bookstore. Someone asked me to - because I was always there, talking to people, sharing my passion for Christian books and music. Why Children's Ministry? Easy - Jesus said, "Let the children come to me and do not hinder them. The Kingdom of God belongs to them. " Luke 18:16 (NIV).
4) IT TAKES INTO ACCOUNT YOUR TEMPERAMENT.
Some people say I am a warm, caring, relational person. I can put others at ease - especially children. I am gentle, non-threatening and encouraging. What are the characteristics of your temperament?
Authentic service pleases God. It delights the one who is being served, and also gives the server a bit of a buzz too. When you are serving for the right reason in the right place, you feel really good and enjoy your service. God wants us to serve in this way.
This morning going to Church was not a chore, I didn't feel depressed. Why? Because my service was a joy, it energized me and most of all I experienced a blessing.
Service is vital part of the Christian life. But to be authentic and energizing it has to flow out of worship and has to fit who God made you to be. I don't know what to expect this year, but I do know that I am a unique individual and God has a special task - energizing service - both in and out of the Church. A special task designed just for me!!
Here's my favourite verse again:
"For I know the plans I have for you", says the Lord, "plans for your
welfare and not for harm, to give you a future and hope."
Jeremiah 29:11
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
Posts
