My Life Journal

Humanity cannot solve the problems of humanity. We need God.

noreply@blogger.com (SonDance) — Wed, 10 Jun 2020 01:51:00 +0000

‭‭Paul wrote what we call the book of Ephesians to his friends in the church in Ephesus. He is in prison, in chains. Yet, his mind and spirit, as expressed in the letter, are free. The chains are not at all limiting on his calling, his mission.

In Ephesians 6:19, he asks: And pray for me, too. Ask God to give me the right words so I can boldly explain God’s mysterious plan that the Good News is for Jews and Gentiles alike.

God answered this prayer. As a result of Paul’s endeavours, the early church grew, bringing the Gospel across the Roman Empire, transforming people. Over time, the Christian church and faith grew more organized. In 313 AD, the Emperor Constantine issued the Edict of Milan, which accepted Christianity: 10 years later, it had become the official religion of the Roman Empire.

In our present time, our freedoms have restricted by government edicts to contain the Covid-19 pandemic, based on the advice of medical experts. But there are no experts on Covid-19, as this is unlike anything the world has seen. The path to resolution, the long term impact of shutting down the world are both still unclear.

If that wasn’t enough, there is great unrest and even violence around the world in response to the tragic and brutal death of George Floyd at the hands of police. Protests and marches abound, to try to bring an end to racism, to hatred and fear. But this isn’t the first time such protests have happened, yet the tragedies continue.

Despite much activity and many attempts, Humanity cannot solve the problems of humanity. In the words of Jesus, "Humanly speaking, it is impossible. But with God everything is possible.”

In the context of great cynicism and distrust about religion and church, God’s mysterious plan, the Good News that Jesus came to pay the price for our sin, to restore us into relationship with God and replace enmity between peoples with love, is more relevant and needed that perhaps ever before in history.

Jesus is, the love of God extended. Jesus is, the answer.

We who follow Christ need to have the right words to boldly explain, and demonstrate, this plan to a world that so very desperately needs to hear it, to solve problems of humanity that humanity cannot solve. We need God. Let us set aside our virtual chains to be God’s Ambassadors of love, hope and faith, and healing.

Lord, give me the right words to explain your mysterious plan and Good News of the gospel. And give me boldness to share it with people who you bring across my path. Love through me I pray.

God’s Unexpected Remedy

noreply@blogger.com (SonDance) — Sat, 11 Apr 2020 16:16:00 +0000

Yesterday was Good Friday, the day we commemorated the crucifixion of Jesus, and his brutal death at Calvary… the day that Jesus declared “It is finished!”, bowed his head and gave up his spirit.    Mission accomplished.

God’s unexpected remedy for sin is done.

The prophets told of a coming Messiah. Palm Sunday saw the people welcome the Messiah. But no one expected the Messiah to come to die. God Himself, through Jesus’ death, paid for our sins, making it possible for us to live free from the power of sin, in relationship with Him and the Father.    He replaced religion with relationship.

This Easter, our community, our country, our entire world is very different. COVID-19 has rapidly spread around the globe, touching almost every nation to a greater or lesser extent.   The virus of fear and panic has spread even faster. National and regional leaders shut down everything but essential services trying to contain the spread. Easter celebrations are virtual, not in person.   This could be our new normal until a vaccine is developed, but that could be 12-18 months!

Meanwhile, unemployment rates continue to rise to levels not seen since the Great Depression. If this continues, can governments spend money they don’t have to maintain some semblance of order?   Can our country, world avoid economic collapse?   Does God have a remedy?

In ancient Israel, when Solomon had built the Temple, the Lord appeared to him to confirm this was the place His people could connect with Him.   And in the event of a drought or plague, “if my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, and I will forgive their sin and will heal their land.“ - 2 Chronicles 7:14.   Could this be God’s remedy for our land, for our world?   for those who are called by His name, to humble ourselves, pray and seek His face, turn from our wicked ways…

But that’s Old Testament, the Law.   Jesus said He came not to do away with the Law, but to fulfill it.   Is there a similar promise in the New Testament?

In John 15, Jesus talks about being the True Vine. “Abide in me, and I in you” Jesus says, to bear fruit - John 15:4.    “If you remain in me and my words remain in you, ask whatever you wish, and it will be done for you” - John 15:7.     This sound similar to the word to Solomon - abiding in Him is to humble ourselves, pray and seek His face, to be in close relationship with Him; His words abiding in us, turning us from our wicked ways…

Then, per Chronicles, He will hear from heaven, forgive our sin and heal our land. Per Jesus, ask whatever we wish, and it will be done for us.

Our part is the if… if my people….. if we remain in him and His words remain in us.   Let us, as God’s people, humble ourselves, pray and seek His face, and turn from our wicked way..      wait. wicked?   I’m not wicked.

In Matthew 5:22, Jesus said that anyone who is angry with a brother or sister will be subject to judgment, anyone who says ‘You fool!’ will be in danger of the fire of hell.     That’s a broad definition of wicked.

In Romans 12:2, Paul elaborates: “Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.” In verse 9, he tells us: Love must be sincere. Hate what is evil, do not tolerate what is wicked; cling to what is good. 1 John 1:5 states "God is light; in him there is no darkness at all." That's a very high bar!

Ok, so maybe I do have to turn from some wicked ways…      Jesus' first words as He started His mission in Mark 1:15 were “The time has come. The kingdom of God has come near. Repent and believe the good news!”   Let us individually and collectively as God’s people take heed - let us repent, abide in Him, and have His words abide in us.

And, let’s ask God to heal our land. At the very least, we individually will be in a better place, abiding in Christ, walking through this with Him. And if He does heal our land, let us not return to life as normal, but continue to abide in Him and be His hands and feet, expressing His love and plan to restore us into relationship with Him to our world that so desperately needs to hear and experience His great love.

Speak; your servant is listening.

noreply@blogger.com (SonDance) — Wed, 08 Apr 2020 02:09:00 +0000

The Lord came and stood there, and called as he had before, “Samuel! Samuel!” Samuel answered, “Speak; your servant is listening.” - 1 Samuel 3:10

Samuel was a miracle child, a gift to his mom Hannah in response to her desperate prayers for a child. If God gave her a son, she promised to give him to God for as long as he lives. Her request was granted and, to her delight, she had a son. And she kept her promise, giving the boy to the care of the Priest Eli, to live in the Lord’s house.

One night, the Lord called Samuel. Samuel had no experience with the Lord, so he ran to Eli to ask what he wanted. But Eli hadn’t called; after the third time they figured it was the Lord who had called.   The next time, Samuel answered, “Speak; your servant is listening.”     The Lord spoke, revealing his plans to do something in Israel that will make the ears of everyone who hears it, ring.   Samuel listened.

While He doesn’t often call out to us as He did to Samuel, God does invite us to spend time with Him.   His invitation includes making our concerns and needs known. But, too often our tendency is to go to God with our list of what we need Him to do, as if He were an order desk, thank Him for His time and get on with our day.

But God invites us to deeper relationship, a two-way connection, where He imparts His heart, His wisdom, His plan to us. The Psalmist writes in Psalm 25:14 - The Lord confides in those who fear Him.

Jesus said: My sheep know my voice. This requires we spend time being with Him, listening not always speaking. Especially when we don’t know how or what to pray, just abiding in Him is sufficient. He invites us to abide in Him, and for His words to abide in us, so His kingdom can come in, and through, us.

Lord, in the midst of this global Covid-19 pandemic, rather than taking in a constant barrage of bad news that leads to panic, may I instead invest my time with you, to know your heart, your wisdom and your plan, to know "You got this!". May I truly abide in You, and your words in me.

He helps us, so that we can help others

noreply@blogger.com (SonDance) — Wed, 01 Apr 2020 10:30:00 +0000

He helps us in all our troubles, so that we are able to help others who have all kinds of troubles, using the same help that we ourselves have received from God.    2 Corinthians 1:4

Paul starts his second letter to the church at Corinth giving thanks to God, from whom all help comes. He reflects on his sufferings and God’s great help. He reminds the church of the trouble he had in the province of Asia, burdens so great that he gave up hope of staying alive.   He concluded this all happened so that we should rely, not on ourselves, but only on God. God saved from such terrible dangers of death, and will save again.

In our world today people are seemingly more fearful about Covid-19 every day, more and more paralyzed in fear of staying alive. News coverage talks about little else, inundating viewers with the latest bad news.   Are we able to help others in such troubles? Paul says we are able to help others with the same help we ourselves have received from God. What is the help have we received from God?

Paul’s life was totally transformed when he encountered Christ on the Damascus road. Paul experienced God’s love, and virtually in an instant, changed from a persecutor of those who followed Christ, to an evangelist passionate to help others experience Christ and His transforming power!

God loved us with a love so great that Jesus willingly died on the cross. He set aside his divine nature to become a man to suffer and die so that Paul could live and be reconciled to God. So can I, so can everyone. Because God created man to be in relationship with Him, the greatest help is to help others know God’s love and grace and be restored into that relationship.   I can live in peace, empowered by the Holy Spirit, free from the power of sin over my life, free from fear.

Jesus promised to be with us, with me, to the end of the age.   He told us not to worry about what we would eat, drink or wear. He told us not to fear anything, not even death, for He has conquered death.   He is with me… or should I say I am with Him. With Him, I gain His perspective, insight and wisdom for life, and strength to endure whatever may come. Living relying on God, not on ourselves, allows us to stand in the face of burdens so great that would otherwise cause us to lose our hope of staying alive. It is through our times of troubles that we can know that He is faithful, strong when I am weak.

That’s the help we have received that we can offer others as meaningful help - God’s love, restoring into relationship with Him. That’s true hope, not that we somehow survive, but have His life and strength in us, to truly live. Any other help, while useful and even necessary, is only temporary.

Lord Jesus, thank you for loving me, for giving me life through your death. Help me to lean not to my own understanding, but to lean into you. Help me to walk in your strength. May I be able to say with Paul: for me to live is Christ, and to die is gain.

Strength to Endure

noreply@blogger.com (SonDance) — Wed, 25 Mar 2020 02:09:00 +0000

Every test that you have experienced is the kind that normally comes to people. But God keeps his promise, and he will not allow you to be tested beyond your power to remain firm; at the time you are put to the test, he will give you the strength to endure it, and so provide you with a way out.
1 Corinthians 10:13

Paul is writing to the church in Corinth, a prosperous city filled with rampant immorality that at times had crept into the church.   There were lots of challenges to deal with in this environment.   Paul says these tests are the kind that normally come to people, that God will not allow them to be tested beyond their ability to stand firm.

Life in our day also has its challenges, in health, relationships and our finances.    These are the kind that normally come to people. God keeps his promise, not allowing us to be tested beyond our power to remain firm.

But then there are the extraordinary challenges: Serious, even life threatening health issues. Unemployment leading to credit limits being maxed out, and wondering how the next month’s bills will be paid.    Recession.    Hyper-inflation.   Natural disasters.    And, most recently, Covid-19 has brought virtually the whole world to a stand still.   Surely this is beyond our ability to remain firm.

Each time a significant challenge comes, we can so easily think “God, you have over-estimated my power to stand firm this time”.    Maybe with some of the “easy” ones we could remain firm on our own.   But times do come when we cannot, a challenge that is so overwhelming we see no way out.    Surely this time you have over-estimated me, God.

But Paul says it's not about us.   At the time we are put to the test, God will give the strength to endure. God gives the strength. When our own efforts will not suffice and we stop striving in them, we can lean into God and see the strength He gives carry us through, and provide a way out.   That way out most often is not visible until we are there.

That’s where faith comes in, knowing God enough to know that He keeps every one of the promises He has made, and trusting Him enough to do as He leads.   Then we too can be like the people of Israel once they had reached the promised land, saying: The LORD kept every one of the promises that he had made to the people of Israel. (Joshua 21:45)

Lord, my strength and wisdom is not enough in the face of a national crisis, a global pandemic. Help me to draw close to you, to trust you completely, whatever I face and whatever the outcome.    May others see your strength in me and be drawn to you as well.

Missing Out?

noreply@blogger.com (SonDance) — Sun, 22 Mar 2020 15:54:00 +0000

The people of Manasseh, however, were not able to drive out the people living in those cities, so the Canaanites continued to live there. - Joshua 17:12

God clearly promised Abraham, Moses and Joshua they would occupy the land.   Despite challenges and set-backs on the way, this did mostly happen for the people of Israel.   There were a handful of tribes that didn’t achieve this, at least in the time of Joshua.   The people of Manasseh were one of these. They were not able to drive out the people living in those cities.   Why?   Did God break His promise?

Joshua 17:16 gives a clue - They replied, “The hill country is not big enough for us, but the Canaanites in the plains have iron chariots, both those who live in Beth Shan and its surrounding towns and those who live in Jezreel Valley.”

This harkens back to the 10 spies who reported, yes the land is beautiful and plentiful, but there are giants in the land - they are too strong.    So it wasn’t God who broke His promise; if you fast forward in history, King David did take the land, fulfilling the promise of God.   But, the people of Manasseh during the time of Joshua missed out, because they looked at their perceived reality, rather than being bold and courageous based on the promise of God.

Our world today is in the midst of a growing Covid-19 pandemic, a giant that seems insurmountable impacting our collective economic well-being and emotional health and threatening many physically. None of us know whether we are susceptible, or have come in contact with the virus despite our best efforts to avoid it, until it strikes us. And then, the outcome is uncertain - most will survive, but many will not. Hence fear on a global level, turning our world into a isolation chamber.

In Matthew 6, Jesus says “Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or drink; or about your body, what you will wear. Is not life more than food, and the body more than clothes?”   “But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well. Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.”

In John 16, Jesus says “I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.”

In these days of great uncertainty, do I focus on the increasingly gloomy picture our news services report repeatedly about Covid-19 and all that comes with it, crowding out His promises? or do I trust the God who is bigger than Covid-19, and has promised to be with me if I seek his kingdom and righteousness first? Do I live out His love in and to a world that so desperately looks for hope and peace?

Lord Jesus, thank you for your promise to be with your people, with me, to the end of the age.   Help me to seek your kingdom and your righteousness in everything I say and do. Help me to keep my eyes on you, not my circumstances, to keep me at perfect peace.   And may your peace, hope and love flow through me.

Come, Stay a While

noreply@blogger.com (SonDance) — Thu, 30 Jan 2020 03:16:00 +0000

Exodus 24:12

The Lord said to Moses, “Come up on the mountain and stay here for a while. I will give you the two flat stones on which I have written the laws that my people must obey.”

Moses had passed along the Lord’s instructions to the people of Israel. They all promised to do as the Lord has commanded. Moses, Aaron and the leaders went up the mountain, and caught a glimpse of the God of Israel.

God invited Moses to come up on the mountain while God prepared two flat stones with the laws for the people. Come, stay here for a while. Moses went into the cloud with God and stayed there 40 days and nights.

40 days and nights? That’s staying a long while, much longer than the time needed to write 10 laws on two flat stones. God created the universe and everything in it in six days. They hung out, for 40 days and nights. Moses was one on one with God. For 40 days and nights.

So, what did they do all that time? What did they talk about? Did they run out of things to discuss? Were there awkward moments of silence when Moses didn’t know what to say? Did God reprimand Moses for his lack of faith? congratulate him for a job well done? unfold His plan for Israel? Did Moses ask questions? Did God answer? Did Moses sleep? Was it timeless, as God is timeless? Was it a glimpse of eternity, heaven on earth?

To the people, the Lord 's glory looked like a blazing fire on top of the mountain. For Moses, this was an intimate time with God.

God invites us to spend time with Him. Come, stay here with me for a while. It may not be for 40 days, but that’s why Jesus came, to restore us sinful people into relationship with a Holy God, so we can spend time with Him… to cast cares on Him. to have peace. to gain wisdom. for direction. Just. To. Be. With. Him. The Creator of all.

What could be more important, a better use of time?

Father, thank you for making it possible for me to have fellowship with You, for wanting to spend time with me. May I be wise enough to search for You. Help me eliminate the distractions that keep me from staying a while.

Let Us Not Forget

noreply@blogger.com (SonDance) — Mon, 27 Jan 2020 02:44:00 +0000

Exodus 14:31

Because of the mighty power he had used against the Egyptians, the Israelites worshiped him and trusted him and his servant Moses.

God had mightily delivered the Israelites from Egypt with ten plagues, each targeting an ancient Egyptian god. God demonstrated His power to protect and deliver His people, the Israelites. It was an over the top demonstration of superiority, like a team sweeping the preliminary playoff rounds by a large margin.

But, soon the people are up against the Red Sea, with 600 elite chariots on their tail. God dramatically and clearly demonstrated His power on ten occasions. Yet, the people forgot that all once they were under threat. Begging the Lord for help, they complained to Moses: “Wasn't there enough room in Egypt to bury us? Is that why you brought us out here to die in the desert? Why did you bring us out of Egypt anyway?”

God parked a cloud between the people and the chariot army to protect them while He parted the Red Sea. The next morning, they went go through on dry land. When they reached the other side, the walls of water collapsed, washing the elite warriors of the Egyptian army away.

Exodus tells us the Israelites worshiped him and trusted him and his servant Moses. As it turns out, they trusted only for three days, forgetting again, complaining about the bitter water at Marah. God made the water fit to drink by Moses throwing a certain piece of wood into the water. A short while later, they complained “we wish the LORD had killed us in Egypt. We could at least eat all the bread and meat we wanted.” Again, God provided. Pretty dramatic demonstrations, yet very shallow faith.

It is easy to be an armchair quarterback, to criticize the people for being whiners, for not trusting in their God who so faithfully provided for their every need with such “over the top” miracles. God has gone “over the top” for us as well. He sent Jesus to die a painful death on the cross to pay for our sins and restore us into relationship with God. He also showed us how to live, defeating sin and death so we would be free to live as He designed us. And He gives His Spirit to teach and empower us.

Human tendency is to question, even complain when life throws us a curve, an unexpected set-back or loss. Let us remember His faithfulness to us, the times when He has seen us through challenges. God has been faithful in the past, and is worthy of our trust for the future. The Lord will save everyone who asks for his help.

Lord, thank you for your love for me, that works all things together for my good. Help me to remember your faithfulness - may this build my faith! May I not forget and complain, but trust.

Too Discouraged to Believe

noreply@blogger.com (SonDance) — Thu, 23 Jan 2020 15:06:00 +0000

Exodus 6:9

When Moses told this to the Israelites, they were too discouraged and mistreated to believe him.

Moses came to the people of Israel with God’s message, that He would free them from slavery and bring them into the land He had promised to Abraham, Issac and Jacob. It would be their land.    What a fantastic promise!

Their response?   Yeah, right. (my paraphrase)

The first visit by Moses and Aaron to Pharaoh to set this in motion resulted in even harsher treatment of the people.   Another visit to Pharaoh coming?   How much worse would it be after that?   Even Moses didn’t want to go to Pharaoh to tell him to let the people go.

Faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.   Their faith in Moses, his faith in God, had been beaten out of them. Yet, Moses obeyed and spoke to the king.   There was a long journey still go come, with much push back from Pharaoh, but the journey to freedom had begun.

There can be times in life where discouragement, despair and darkness seem to prevail, and life hits rock bottom. These can be personal crisis such as health issues, cancer, economic hardship, relationship breakdown, or broader family or societal crisis. Yet, in such times we need to hold on to the promises of God and the hope they entail, and listen for His voice to guide us forward.

Jesus said in this world we will have trouble. He told us these things, so that in Him we may have peace, knowing He would never leave or forsake us.   With Him, our deepest despair can be the darkest before the dawn moment, the beginning of seeing God act on our behalf as we step out in response to His leading. Our weakest moments, where we cease struggling on our own, can be the time when He can be strong on our behalf.

Lord, be strong in my weakness. Be the hope in my discouragement. Be glorified in the outcome.

Whatever you do...

noreply@blogger.com (SonDance) — Wed, 28 Mar 2012 12:15:00 +0000

1 Corinthians 10:31 So whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God. (NLT)

Under the law, there were many regulations around food. But Paul writes about the believer's freedom - the right to do anything! However, he also reminds them that not everything is beneficial or constructive. He lifts the focus off one's self and one's own good, to seek the good of others.

He talks about a couple of specifics, but then gives a simple guiding principle - whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God.

Whatever I do, do it all for the glory of God. This raises the bar! "Whatever I do" gives me no leeway to ask "what about…". Whether my expectations are being met, my patience is being stretched, or I'm stressed, do it all for the glory of God. When I drive, when I'm cut off in traffic, when I'm forced to wait in line, when someone with 20 items is in the express check-out line, when I have to deal with difficult people…. whatever I do, do it all for the glory of God.

I have to confess that I fall short of this bar in so many ways. Frankly, I don't even think of the routine things of life in the context of doing them for glory of God. That's what eating and drinking are, the very basics of life. Start with those being for the glory of God, and then whatever else I do as well.

Lord, I so need your help with this. May your Holy Spirit in me remind me, and empower me, live as You created and designed me to live, that in everything I would bring You glory.

Human attempt, or God's own fulfillment

noreply@blogger.com (SonDance) — Tue, 13 Mar 2012 03:05:00 +0000

Galatians 4:23

The son of the slave wife was born in a human attempt to bring about the fulfillment of God's promise. But the son of the freeborn wife was born as God's own fulfillment of his promise. (NLT)

Paul uses the story of Abraham to illustrate the difference between the old and new covenant. The old covenant sets the standard for human effort that falls short, like the son born of the slave wife. He was the result of Sarah's efforts, giving her slave to Abraham to bring about fulfillment of God's promise.

Sarah's own son came well beyond her childbearing years, a miracle in which she was obviously involved, yet one solely attributable to the promise of God. Through that son came the special people of God, from whom eventually was born the Messiah, the Saviour of all mankind.

How often do I attempt to being about the fulfillment of God's promise? It is so easy to put my effort into making things happen, especially when nothing seems to be happening!

But when I submit to the Lord, doing my part as He leads and instructs, according to His timing, His Plan amazingly unfolds in and through me. The outcome is far greater than I could ever dream of accomplishing by my own efforts. It is indeed amazing that then I can be part of the fulfillment of Jesus' prayer, that "Thy Will be done, on earth as it is in Heaven", and see miracles in the process.

Lord, thank you for the opportunity to be part of what You are doing. Give me the grace to continue to seek You, patient quietness to wait for You, sensitivity of spirit to hear You, and the boldness to step out in obedience as You lead.

One Bad Decision Can Undo Everything

noreply@blogger.com (SonDance) — Sat, 06 Aug 2011 03:55:00 +0000

2 Chronicles 35:22

But Josiah would not stop his attack. He disguised himself as he went into battle. He refused to listen to Neco’s words, which came from God, and he went to fight in the valley of Megiddo.

After Josiah had finished repairing the temple and leading his people back to God, King Neco of Egypt came to fight a battle at Carchemish at the Euphrates River. Josiah went to attack him. But Neco sent messengers to Josiah to say, “What’s your quarrel with me, king of Judah? I’m not attacking you.

Josiah didn’t listen, not to Neco, not to God’s plan. He stubbornly proceeded to engage Neco is a fight. The consequences were fatal. Josiah was mortally wounded in the battle, even though he disguised himself.

This happened 13 years after the passover. The text is silent on this time in between, and the rationale for Josiah's decision. Possibly Josiah saw himself as God's agent to bring about change, to bring about God's Kingdom outside Judah as he had done within. Maybe he thought he could wield the wealth and power with which the Lord had blessed him. Perhaps his passion for the Lord had cooled.

Whatever the case, his sensitivity to and willingness to follow the Lord’s direction just wasn’t there at this point. Sadly, this life of such great accomplishment and potential came to an early end because of a dumb decision. Moreover, those who took over quickly led the nation back down the evil paths of their forefathers, wasting all the good things that had been accomplished under Josiah's watch.

I certainly don't have the same track record for being the Lord's agent of change as Josiah. I am not in a position to criticize his decision, or his refusal to listen. His story does help me recognize the same attitude in me when I get my mind or heart fixed on something that may be counter to the Lord's plan.

I can do this. I can do this for God! I have a track record. And it's for good. Or maybe even somebody needs to do something!

My plans can seem good, but, are they part of God's perfect plan? Does He have a better way? His ways are higher. He can accomplish so much more than I can even imagine. He sees the end from the beginning. Rather than seeking His blessing on what I undertake, I'm much further ahead to seek what He is doing and align myself with that, in the role for which He has designed me, by His power in me.

Lord, please forgive my stubborn heart. May I be content in the role for which you have made me. Help me to focus on your will. May I not make foolish or dumb decisions outside your will that cost me and others.

One Person Can Make a Difference

noreply@blogger.com (SonDance) — Thu, 04 Aug 2011 22:34:00 +0000

2 Chronicles 34:15-16, 31-33

Hilkiah said to Shaphan the secretary, “I have found the Book of the Law in the temple of the Lord.” He gave it to Shaphan.

Then Shaphan took the book to the king and reported to him: “Your officials are doing everything that has been committed to them.

The king stood by his pillar and renewed the covenant in the presence of the Lord—to follow the Lord and keep his commands, regulations and decrees with all his heart and all his soul, and to obey the words of the covenant written in this book.

Then he had everyone in Jerusalem and Benjamin pledge themselves to it; the people of Jerusalem did this in accordance with the covenant of God, the God of their fathers.

Josiah removed all the detestable idols from all the territory belonging to the Israelites, and he had all who were present in Israel serve the Lord their God. As long as he lived, they did not fail to follow the Lord, the God of their fathers.

Josiah became king at the age of eight - 8! From the outset, he did what was right in the eyes of the Lord, and walked in the ways of his forefather David. Most of his predecessors had not done so, leading the nation far from the Lord.

While retrieving the money that the king had provided for workers to restore the temple, Hilkiah the priest found the Book of the Law that the Lord had given through Moses. He gave the book to Shaphan, who then gave it to the king.

The king tore his robes in shame and repentance. The king listened to the reading of the Book, then leading the nation in returning to the Lord and keeping His commands.

One person can change the destiny of a nation. Certainly the king did this, but then he was the king. But what about Hilkiah, the priest who found the Book of the Law? or Shaphan the secretary who took the book and reported to the king? That could have been very intimidating for him to approach the king with it.

Perhaps I am not in a position to change the destiny of a nation or company by sharing the story of Jesus. But I might be positioned to be God’s instrument for changing a family, community or neighbourhood, or perhaps another individual who might change the destiny of the nation!

Lord, may I be bold and courageous to let You live through me to change the destiny of those with whom I come in contact.

Nourishment

noreply@blogger.com (SonDance) — Tue, 02 Aug 2011 10:49:00 +0000

John 4:31-34

Meanwhile, the disciples were urging Jesus, "Rabbi, eat something."

But Jesus replied, "I have a kind of food you know nothing about."

"Did someone bring him food while we were gone?" the disciples asked each other.

Then Jesus explained: "My nourishment comes from doing the will of God, who sent me, and from finishing his work.”

Jesus and his disciples had walked a long way, from Judea to Samaria on their way to Galilee. They were tired and hungry. Leaving Jesus by the well, the disciples went to buy some food.

When they returned, the disciples were surprised to find Jesus talking with a woman, a Samaritan at that, but none of them had the nerve to question him about breaking cultural mores. They urge Jesus to eat something.

"I have a kind of food you know nothing about.”

Did someone bring him food, they wonder.

Then Jesus explained: "My nourishment comes from doing the will of God, who sent me, and from finishing his work.”

Jesus was fully human when He walked the earth, but also fully God so fully aware of His purpose. Well before Maslow’s hierarchy of needs, Jesus indicates He is most nourished by fulfilling that purpose, doing what God has given Him to do.

Where do I seek my nourishment, the substances necessary for growth, health, and good condition?

Three meals each day, for sure. Being productive in my work. Working out. Volunteering at something worthwhile where I can make a difference. Adrenalin perhaps.

God has created me and put me on this earth for a purpose. He has placed me where I am, not just to exist or survive, but to live out His calling. As I discover and live His will more fully, I too will be nourished beyond my basic needs.

Lord, help me today to understand your will for me and to live it out moment by moment. May your will drive my agenda today and every day.

God of Second Chances

noreply@blogger.com (SonDance) — Wed, 27 Jul 2011 03:36:00 +0000

Isaiah 48:18-19

If only you had listened to my commands! Your peace would be like a river that never runs dry. Your righteousness would be like waves on the sea.

Your descendants would be like sand. Your children would be like its grains. Their names would not be cut off or wiped out in my presence.

The Lord had chosen Israel to be His people. He had given them the law through Moses, a blueprint for living in relationship with God and with each other that set them apart as an example to the nations.

If only the people had lived by His commands. They would have enjoyed peace, righteousness and abundance, long lasting relationship with the Lord. Instead, they found themselves captive in Babylon, from where the Lord is now preparing to rescue his people.

When I find myself in difficult circumstances, when things don't work out as I might expect, it is easy to ask "Why?" of God. It might be better to consider whether I had listened to His instruction, His direction.

Living by God's principles, in the centre of His will, promises peace like a river that never runs dry, peace beyond human understanding. It promises righteousness rolling over me like waves in the sea.

Perhaps most encouraging is knowing that the Lord doesn't leave me captive. He doesn't waste my mistakes, using them to refine me, to make me a better me. By His grace, He rescues me, sets me free, gives me a second chance.

Lord, thank you for your patience with me, for loving me as I am but loving me too much to leave me there. Help me each day to hear your leading, to apply your teaching and live by your strength. Then may I savour your peace in and relish your righteousness over me.

He is God, I'm not!

noreply@blogger.com (SonDance) — Tue, 26 Jul 2011 11:08:00 +0000

1 Peter 5:6-7

So humble yourselves under the mighty power of God, and at the right time he will lift you up in honour.

Give all your worries and cares to God, for he cares about you.

The pattern Peter encourages for the church is humble service, in whatever capacity one is given. Leaders do not exercise the authority of their position over people, but care for the flock, serve willingly and lead by example. Everyone in the community serves each other in humility, under the mighty power of God, leaving the outcome to Him.

Humble: having or showing a modest or low estimate of one's own importance. God is the creator and sustainer of the universe - He is God, I’m not.

Humility would seem to be difficult to attain in every member of a community. The key is the mighty power of God. A big human ego is impossible in the context of an awesome God.

When I see Him for who He truly is, I also see myself in right perspective, for who I truly am. It is then that He can work in me and through me, as I serve according to His greater plans and better ways.

Humble service in the power of the Holy Spirit is a model very different than many a human enterprise, a model that works! It also frees me from responsibility for the outcome. I can give all my worries and cares to God, knowing He cares for me.

Lord, show me a glimpse of your awesomeness. Help me to choose humility in every circumstance I face today, humility under your mighty power, that people would see your glory in me.

The Treasure of God's Company

noreply@blogger.com (SonDance) — Mon, 25 Jul 2011 10:50:00 +0000

Isaiah 43:1-2

But now, O Jacob, listen to the Lord who created you. O Israel, the one who formed you says, "Do not be afraid, for I have ransomed you. I have called you by name; you are mine.

When you go through deep waters, I will be with you. When you go through rivers of difficulty, you will not drown. When you walk through the fire of oppression, you will not be burned up; the flames will not consume you.

God speaks to His people, to the ones He has ransomed and called by name. He doesn’t promise an easy life. He does promise to be with His people through difficult times, that the difficulties will not consume them.

As one ransomed by the Creator of the universe, I would like things to be easy and prosperous, to work out. However, life brings its share of deep waters - loss of loved ones, illness, cancer, uncertainty, layoffs, more bills than bank account, financial losses, being treated unfairly, ripped off... none of us are immune! Some experience all of these and then some! and some I bring upon myself.

The Creator of the universe does, however, pledge to be with me as I go through these deep waters. Difficulty will not drown me, nor will oppression consume me.

In shallow waters I think I can get by on my own. It is through such deep waters that I truly learn to know God, hear His voice and trust in His faithfulness. It is during these times that He gives treasures hidden in the darkness.

Lord, thank you for the treasure of your company through the inevitable difficulties of life. Thank you for your peace when life doesn’t make sense or overwhelms.

Finding New Strength

noreply@blogger.com (SonDance) — Sun, 24 Jul 2011 16:54:00 +0000

Isaiah 40:28, 31

Have you never heard? Have you never understood? The Lord is the everlasting God, the Creator of all the earth. He never grows weak or weary. No one can measure the depths of his understanding.

But those who trust in the Lord will find new strength. They will soar high on wings like eagles. They will run and not grow weary. They will walk and not faint.

Isaiah describes God as without equal - who else has held the oceans in his hand? measured the heavens with his fingers?

The heavens proclaim the glory of the Lord. God is the one who created the heavens and the earth. His great power and incomparable strength is greater than the immenseness of the universe. The earth is like a grain of sand to Him. He never grows weak or weary.

Having painted this picture of God as ultimate, Isaiah offers hope to those who trust in the Lord - they will find new strength. They will soar like eagles. They will run and not grow weary. They will walk and not faint.

How big is my view of God? Is He bigger than my universe?

Isaiah is speaking to God’s people. God’s strength is available to His people, those who live in relationship with Him according to His purpose, laws and principles.

He is not a genie granting wishes to those who ask the right way. I must admit that sometimes I treat Him that way, asking Him to bless what I do, to give me something I want.

Is my view of God big enough to trust Him no matter what being “His people” entails?

Isaiah makes it clear that doing so renews my strength. I can soar like an eagle, high enough to get a different view of the circumstances. I can run hard at God’s plan without getting weary. Indeed, if I am getting weary, perhaps I’m not trusting and need to re-align myself as “His people”.

Lord, creation indeed speaks to your glory and power. When I reflect on this, I am amazed that You are mindful of mere individuals like me. Yet You are, and offer not only relationship, but your strength in me to live as You’ve created me to live. Show me your will and renew my strength today for today’s challenges. Then I can run again, and not grow weary.

Be Holy in everything you do - an impossibly High Standard?

noreply@blogger.com (SonDance) — Sat, 23 Jul 2011 03:25:00 +0000

But now you must be holy in everything you do, just as God who chose you is holy. - 1 Peter 1:12

Peter addresses his letter to God’s chosen people, living as foreigners in several lands. God the Father knew you and chose you long ago, and his Spirit has made you holy. As a result, you have obeyed him and have been cleansed by the blood of Jesus Christ.

Peter talks about a priceless inheritance that awaits in heaven. In light of this, Peter exhorts the believers to think clearly, exercising self-control. Don't slip back into your old ways of living to satisfy your own desires. Be holy in everything you do, just as God who chose you is holy.

Peter sets the bar very high. Be holy in everything you do.

Everything! Not just Sunday mornings in church, or in what I do for God, but in everything I do. 24/7. That’s an impossible standard!

On my own strength, it certainly is impossible. But, Peter reminds me it is God’s Spirit who has made me holy. Past tense. It has been done.

As a a result, all I have to do is think clearly and exercise self-control, living by God’s principles rather than living to satisfy my own desires. His Spirit enables me to choose God’s way, the way of my new nature, Christ’s nature in me.

Lord, thank you for your grace and your cleansing blood. Thank you for making me holy. May I express that holiness better each day, living out my Christ nature, your laws written in my heart. May I be holy in everything I do.

Aligning with God's Plan

noreply@blogger.com (SonDance) — Thu, 21 Jul 2011 03:05:00 +0000

2 Chronicles 29:36

And Hezekiah and all the people rejoiced because of what God had done for the people, for everything had been accomplished so quickly.

At 25 years of age, Hezekiah became king of Judah. His father had shut down the Temple, replacing worship of God with worship of pagan gods. Almost immediately, Hezekiah began to cleanse and restore the Temple of the Lord and to reinstate the priests to lead the nation in worship.

The work was done quickly and diligently under Hezekiah’s leadership. And when it was done, the people responded enthusiastically, bringing so many animals for burnt offerings that there weren’t enough priests to deal with them; the Levites had to help out!

The people rejoiced that Temple worship had been restored, seeing the hand of God in bringing it about so quickly.

Hezekiah enjoyed quick success because he aligned himself wholeheartedly with God, seeking to follow God’s laws and using everything at his disposal to make the Temple right again.

God delights when we do what is on His heart. When we align ourselves with His plans and work with Him, He empowers us to accomplish well beyond our own abilities. It may not always happen as quickly as it did here for Hezekiah, but it will happen. The very existence of the church around the globe is proof.

What about me? Am I aligning myself daily with God to work on His plans and what concerns His heart? Or am I following my own heart, asking God to join in and bless me?

Lord, help me to know your heart, to be aligned wholeheartedly with your plan each day, to hear your voice leading moment by moment, so that You can work your plan through me, and your hand will be evident. And I will rejoice at what the Lord has done.

Faith in Action = Doing Good Things

noreply@blogger.com (SonDance) — Wed, 20 Jul 2011 02:57:00 +0000

James 2:18

Another person might say, “You have faith, but I do good things.” Show me your faith apart from the good things you do. I will show you my faith by the good things I do.

It is easy to claim to have faith. After all, faith is unseen. But James is quite emphatic that faith requires action, or it is useless, no good to anyone.

James uses the example of a believer who needs clothes or food. It is easy to tell that person "God be with you", or in today's lingo "God bless you", or even "I'll pray for you". But if we do nothing to care for their needs when it is within our ability to help, then what good is our faith? It has certainly not made any difference for the one in need.

Without actions, without good things flowing from it, faith is as good as dead. There simply is no evidence that it even exists. However, faith working with action shows itself to be genuine.

On the evidence of my actions, do I have faith? Is my life marked by the good things I do?

But doing good things doesn't necessarily come from faith - there are a lot of good people doing good things with no knowledge of or connection to God. James is talking about good deeds motivated by faith, doing things from a heart transformed by God, His grace, and His love.

When I do good things, what is my motivation? Am I motivated by a desire to be accepted, by God or by other people? Do I do good things expecting some return on that investment? Am I seeking recognition or accolades from others? My good deeds may even be a normal human response to need.

The Holy Spirit not only motivates us to do good works, He also instructs us and empowers us to be agents of His Kingdom, bringing His influence into a very needy world.

Lord, may my life reflect your love and grace through my actions. May I be your hands and feet, extending your Kingdom to those around me

Be Still

noreply@blogger.com (SonDance) — Tue, 19 Jul 2011 11:04:00 +0000

Psalm 46:10

Be still, and know that I am God! I will be honoured by every nation. I will be honoured throughout the world. - NIV

Let go of your concerns! Then you will know that I am God. I rule the nations. I rule the earth. - GWT

With David as king, Israel was very much living up to the covenant God had established with His people. He would be their God, they would be His people.

Under this covenant, God was their refuge and strength. When trouble came in the form of other kings, God was always ready to help them, to defend and protect them. God dwelled in the city - it could not be destroyed.

He rules. He causes wars to end throughout the earth. He alone is supreme.

The people of God were to be still. “Be still, and know that I am God.” They weren’t to move out with their armies unless and until God instructed them to do so. Then all nations would also see that He is God. He will be honoured throughout the world.

It is in stillness that I can know God. Starting each day by being still, letting the Holy Spirit speak to me through his word, I can know afresh that He is God. I can know that no matter what the day holds, God is my refuge and my strength.

The only requirement is that He is my God, and I be His people.

When I follow or chase after other lesser gods, I move myself out from the refuge and strength. I need to let go of my concerns, set aside my own selfish ambition, my own plans, submitting instead to His better plan.

Then I can see the glorious works of the Lord. I could possibly even be an instrument through which He works and is glorified and honoured.

Lord, thank you for making the way through Jesus’ death and resurrection for me to be counted among your people. May I be still in the face of my daily pressures and challenges. May I know first hand that you are God, my refuge and my strength. By this strength, I can do all things and give you honour.

Thinking Differently

noreply@blogger.com (SonDance) — Wed, 13 Jul 2011 02:11:00 +0000

Isaiah 8:11-13

The Lord has given me a strong warning not to think like everyone else does. He said,

"Don't call everything a conspiracy, like they do, and don't live in dread of what frightens them.

Make the Lord of Heaven's Armies holy in your life. He is the one you should fear. He is the one who should make you tremble.

Israel lived among powerful neighbours, under constant threat of attack. Making alliances was a common survival strategy for kings of the day.

God warns the prophet not to think like everyone else, worrying about conspiracies, other nations or alliances. Instead, he is to make the Lord of Heaven’s Armies holy in his life. He is the One to fear. He is the strongest, with the greatest armies - if they’re not on his side, and He advances in anger, they have every reason to tremble.

Don’t think like everyone else does.

There is so much prevalent thinking in this day that is counter to how God thinks - “what’s in it for me?”, “have it your way”, “if it feels good, do it”, “imagine the freedom” from winning the lottery, “look out for number one”, and so many more. There is much talk of conspiracies, between nations, among leadership, between corporations. People live for the weekend, in dread of economic collapse, disease epidemics, violence.

The Lord’s words to Isaiah remind me to think differently, to fear God the highest One, make Him holy in my life. Indeed, because of Christ’s death and resurrection, I can move beyond fear of God into a close, intimate relationship with Him, living by His principles empowered by his Holy Spirit.

Starting each day with time in His Word is a key way for me to stay focused on God, and for His Spirit to transform my thinking to be aligned with His.

Lord, thank you for your Spirit, who reveals and applies the wisdom in your word to my daily situations. Thank you for teaching your ways, for your patience with me when I’m slow to get it.

Missing God's Point

noreply@blogger.com (SonDance) — Wed, 06 Jul 2011 11:06:00 +0000

Hosea 6:6 - I want you to show love, not offer sacrifices. I want you to know me more than I want burnt offerings.

Israel has abandoned both the spirit and letter of the law, God’s principles for living. Yet, they maintained the rituals of sacrifice therein, as offerings for their sin.

They have missed the point.

God established the law as the framework for life together in community, setting Israel apart from their harsh, cruel neighbours. Living together with love and mercy, in relationship with God, was His intent, His priority.

Instead, the people lived unfaithful, evil lives, subjecting each other to injustice and wicked deeds. They abandoned God, chasing instead after other gods, then offered sacrifices to make it right.

God wants us to show love for each other, to stand out in a world where people focus primarily on themselves. He doesn’t want us to simply write a cheque, however sacrificial to fix something, if it is not an expression of true love and mercy.

Unbelievable as it sounds, God wants me to have relationship with Him - that’s why He created me, us, for fellowship together. He cares more about me knowing Him, than what I do for Him.

Lord, forgive me for the many times I get busy doing, rather than spending time with You. Thank you for the invitation to relationship with You - help me to make time for you each day, regardless of how busy things might get. As we do spend time together, fill me with your love and mercy so that I can live in relationship with others the way you patterned for us to live.

God's Plumb Line

noreply@blogger.com (SonDance) — Fri, 01 Jul 2011 01:51:00 +0000

Amos 7:8

He asked me, “What do you see, Amos?”

I answered, “A plumb line.”Then the Lord said, “I’m going to hold a plumb line in the middle of my people Israel. I will no longer overlook what they have done."

Amos was a rancher and a grower of figs, not a prophet. But the Lord took him away from herding the flock, instructing him to ‘Prophesy to my people Israel.’

The Lord was disgusted with His people, despising their religious assemblies and rejecting their offerings because expressing they trampled righteousness and justice. He reflected aloud to Amos about possible plagues or droughts that might be appropriate. Amos appealed to the Lord to forgive, to stop thinking this way because the people would not survive.

The Lord's patience had reached it's limit. He will no longer overlook what His people have done, how they have lived. He will use a plumb line in the midst of His people as the standard by which He will measure His people.

A plumb line is a line with a weight at one end, used to determine verticality. It establishes a true vertical line, by pointing to the center of gravity of the earth.

How does the way I live measure up to the plumb line of God's Word? Is my life aligned with the righteousness, compassion and justice of God? Am I concerned for the things that concern God? Or am I about doing seeking my own ends, participating in religious assemblies and offerings to curry God's favour?

Lord, may your Holy Spirit change my heart each day to be more like Your's, to live as You would have me live. Stir and empower me to love You with all my heart, mind and strength, and to love my neighbour as myself, in action not simply in word.