Tag: Victory

Posted on in Apologetics, Fear/Don't Fake Brave, Life is Short, Miscellaneous, Perseverance, Pivot, Prayer, Wisdom

Preparing for Persecution

I woke up thinking about a solemn topic yesterday, Christian martyrdom. I have been praying and thinking about the several international cities in flames due to riots. These dangerous situations are mostly politically and religiously motivated, yet they are nothing new. Persecution and violence happen every year around the world. While American Christians are sometimes mocked, we generally are not hunted down and attacked!

John Bunyan, the Puritanical preacher who wrote Pilgrim’s Progress, was imprisoned for preaching God’s word without “permission” for about twelve years! In fact, most of his writings were done while he was locked up! Similarly, I was recently reminded of the 21 Coptic Christians beheaded for their faith by ISIS members in 2015. And, I often think of Christians being killed in Africa or the those imprisoned and tortured in the underground churches in Asia… not to mention those in the Middle East.

So, one of the first thoughts in my mind yesterday was this: If a gun or ax was held to my head and I was asked to deny my faith, what would my reaction be? I pray that I would stand firm for Jesus, but it is easy to cave into fear. It makes me a little sick to think about the possibility. Hopefully, it will never happen and I am not trying to be dramatic… But in any case, I like to visualize what I would do and work through it well in advance. As I read Revelation, monitor the news, and pray for our upcoming elections, I know now is the time to prepare.

Generally, my focus is to write about God’s abundant grace in my life and show how He is making lemonade from all the chaos life brings. But when push comes to shove, every moment and decision counts. How I use my time and words each day matters.

Do I scroll on social media or do I read about heroes of the faith? Do I yell at Lydia to do the dishes, or do I talk with her about godly priorities? Do I pray for what I want, or do I persevere in prayer for the persecuted brothers and sisters around the world?

Last week, I had a conversation about reading the Bible. It seemed the people I was talking with had known God for quite awhile but were relatively new to reading the Bible, or at least they were not very proficient. One person said she was content with one simple Bible verse on a plaque that she received as a gift years ago. She did not want to move past that one simple verse, so I challenged her to find similar verses in the Bible to give her better understanding! Read the history, read the Psalms, read the Gospels, read the epistles, just read!!

We cannot survive on random Bible verses. How can we expect to know God or stand in our faith when trials come? We must dig deeper to find Truth, as one day, our very lives might depend on it. As we spend time with God in the Bible, the Holy Spirit will teach us and help us grow in faith. And, He will bring those verses to mind when we need them.

Jesus is the soon returning King; knowing Him personally, through prayer and reading His Word is vital. That is the only way we won’t be deceived in the future. Presently, we also can speak up on important topics, be kind and generous to those who need it, and exercise our right to vote for God-honoring policies and freedoms. Imagine if American Christians would actually vote in each election!

Ultimately, I know I don’t have to worry. I must take each day as it comes but look toward for the future. While I can’t always plan ahead, I am not helpless. Jesus is my Victory! The best thing I can do is to stay close to Jesus, reading His word, pouring out my heart to Him, and listening for His Voice. He is faithful to care for me and all my concerns! He is my hiding place!

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God, thank You for being my Protector. Help me stand firm in my faith and represent You well. Give me wisdom to know what to do and the courage to do it. In Jesus’ Name, Amen

Questions: When trials come, how do you handle them? Do whine and complain about the difficulty, or do resolve to never give up? Do you back down and cower in fear, or do you boldly rise up and move forward with Jesus?

Task: Check out this website and pray for the persecuted Church around the world!

Posted on in Apologetics, Books and Movies I Like, Gratitude, Miscellaneous, Wisdom, Worship

Book Review: Is God a Moral Monster?

On Monday night, my monthly church book club met to discuss the book, “Is God a Moral Monster?” by Paul Copan. Many of the ladies did not quite finish the book, but we had good discussion anyway. The book proved a little more difficult to get through, and that’s why I finished by listening to it on Audible! Nonetheless, it was a joy to meet together and talk about the book, God’s goodness, and how people perceive Him.

YHWH in the Old Testament seems harsh and some people cannot reconcile that to Jesus who was ‘meek and mild.’ But, YHWH and Jesus are both God. Jesus was gentle and lowly at heart, but He also showed His wrath at times. Sometimes we forget that he flipped the money changer tables in the Temple! Even more, Jesus constantly referred to the Old Testament, which was their only Bible, and He is called the Word itself. He referred to or quoted parts of Genesis, Leviticus, Deuteronomy and Psalms, among others.

The book covers many hard topics in the Old Testament, that to our modern, Western mindset do not make much sense. The story of Abraham and Isaac seems abhorrent at first glance, but we miss that Abraham told his servants that both he and Isaac would be back. He trusted God, even when he didn’t understand.

Also, there is a common thought that Joshua killed all the Canaanites including innocent women and children. Yet, we see many of the Canaanites later still living in the land. We don’t know all the details of what happened, but there was likely some hyperbole involved, which was common to the era. Another reminder in the book is that God waited 400+ years to serve justice to the people of Canaan, and He did not reject anyone who wanted to come to Him (ex. Rahab in Jericho).

Reading about slavery in the Old Testament, we think of the horrors of American slavery, not a type of indentured servitude where every debt was canceled in the seventh year. Also, there’s a tendency to read about women and assume they are being mistreated because we do not understand how bad the other nations were to their slaves and women. Israel’s system was a significant upgrade for the time! Israelite men had to abide by rules of war, marriage, sanctity of life, etc. They were not allowed to rape and pillage like warriors in other nations. The system was not perfect, but it was sufficient for a certain time, place, and people.

Similarly, the kosher diet also was a specific way to set God’s people apart from the other nations. Of course, Israel was not “Chosen” because they were amazing, but because God keeps His promises (Deuteronomy 7). They were to show the nations what it means to follow YHWH and live for Him. They were to be an example for others to follow, and when they were not, God punished them. They were blessed to be a blessing and bring salvation (Jesus!) to the world.

The book reminds us that God’s original plan was laid out in the beginning of Genesis. And almost immediately, we ruined it. So, when He gives the law through Moses, it is a bridge, a stepping stone. The Israelites were so like the Egyptians that He had to retrain them to be His people. And still, they often failed miserably. (Israel is “all of us.”)

The Old Testament is descriptive, not always prescriptive or instructive. Not everything we read in the Old Testament is a recommendation or applies to us today (the Ten Commandments do!). Remember, the Law was a bridge to the New Covenant. That said, there is great value in reading about the ancient people and God’s faithfulness.

So, bottom line, God is not a moral monster. He is a Father who is slow to anger and rich in love (Psalm 103). His heart is righteous and pure, full of love and grace. The book content was very thorough and will continue to be a good resource. While it might be somewhat technical, I recommend it!

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God, You are the same yesterday, today, and forever. Thanks that Your heart for Your people is good! Help us reflect Your goodness to a world in need. In Jesus’ Name, Amen

Questions: Have you ever looked into the customs, culture, politics, worldview, or social structure of the Ancient Near East? How might that increase your understanding of the Old Testament?

Task: Next time you are reading a difficult passage of the Bible, take some time to figure out the culture. There are major differences between the Ancient Near East and our modern Western culture!

Posted on in Being Gracious, Gratitude, Journey of Grace, Kindness, MARPE/Orthodontics, Miscellaneous, Parenting, Perseverance, Prayer

Kindness and Gratitude

I have a lot going on in my heart this week. Mostly gratitude, and a little exhaustion, but I am also in awe as I watch God move on my behalf.

Lydia was sick from Friday to Monday and I had to miss some work on those days. I was glad I could take time off and that my team could cover for me. She is feeling somewhat better now and has some medications which are helping her make it through the school day! Thanks, Lord, for taking good care of us both!

I haven’t been feeling the greatest over the last week either. Not one particular issue other than not sleeping well. I am mostly just feeling a little depleted. In part, I think it is related to subtle seasonal shifts. As the weather changes and the days get shorter, it takes a toll on our bodies! I have been trying to go to bed early and get up early do my normal routine. God has been faithful to infuse me with His strength and energy!

This is a busy time of year at work and school anyway. So, maybe I am just anticipating the craziness before it comes. Like I have said before, just adding one activity can throw off my routine… and this week there are several extras. They are all good things, but just add up. God, help me prioritize my time and show Your goodness to others.

On Saturday, when Lydia was sick and I was on-call, my coworker texted to check on Lydia and see if I needed help with work. I was able to take care of the patient, but that kindness meant a lot.

On Sunday, I took Lydia to the walk-in clinic and CVS for meds. I tried to get ahead for the week though I was tired, too. It is a challenge to relax when there is more that needs to be done. But, the Lord is good and faithful to help me!

Because I only worked half the day on Monday so I could be with Lydia, I was able to quickly mow the lawn knowing I wouldn’t be available the rest of the week. It was as if the Lord overrode my schedule and helped me make the best of the situation.

Yesterday, Lydia and I both had dentist appointments. Mine was a little surprising! With my MARPE, I have been extra diligent to Waterpik, brush, floss, etc. Still, the lady cleaning my teeth noticed some staining in back. She did not not let me feel embarrassed and assured me this was by no means the worse she’d ever seen. She did a very good job of removing the stains and recommend I avoid my colored mouthwash since one of the ingredients could be the culprit! She was kind, gracious, and professional. That stands out to me. I don’t love having people work in my mouth, but I hope I get her again next time!

Lately, I’ve been taking a few moments to assess how I am doing physically and emotionally. I am not sick, just not 100%, and I am trying to find little ways to rest and feel my best. This season is difficult, but I knew it would be. I’ve noticed that a little kindness and gratitude go a long way, and God is sustaining me. So, while my body is a little depleted, my heart is full.

Matthew 11:28-30 says, “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.” Thank You, Jesus!

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God, thanks for taking such good care of me! When I am running low on energy, You are my strength and joy. When I need more time, You take care of my schedule. Help me do my best so You receive the glory. In Jesus’ Name, Amen

Questions: When you want to rest but still need to get things done, how do you handle the stress? Do you find it easy to rest in the Lord, or do you battle it out and struggle on your own?

Task: Review your to-do list and remove whatever is not needed today. Remember to pray and trust God, but also breathe, drink some water, stretch, and go to bed on time. Lean on the Lord, and He will sustain you!

Posted on in Finding Grace Weekly Recap, Gratitude, Miscellaneous

Finding Grace #549

You may have seen the acronym GRACE as God’s Riches At Christ’s Expense. Grace is also God’s unmerited favor, or God doing for us what we cannot.

I find grace overflowing with God’s love, joy, peace, blessings, mercy, power, provision, protection, and wisdom. Thank You, Jesus!

Where did I find God’s love and favor—His abundant grace—this week?!

This week was fairly normal with work, school, and activities.

We served at Oasis on Sunday and then had a 4 year old’s birthday party and family Zoom after that! It was a full day of fun! On Monday, Labor Day, we stayed home and mostly relaxed. It felt good to read and work on projects without rushing.

Work was good as usual. Besides the Monarch butterflies I have been visiting in the healing garden most days, one day I saw a pair of cardinals. I followed the male from a distance and then he followed me for a bit. I am fond of cardinals because where I grew up, we always had dozens of pairs. They are cheerful and familiar, but I haven’t seen one in quite awhile. So, it felt extra special.

Lydia is enjoying school so far. She had some tests and is working hard preparing for her Congress meet in a couple weeks. I am proud of her diligence!

Today, we just relaxed and did ‘Saturday things.’ I most enjoyed reading alongside Lydia. We both had our own books, and every so often, we would stop and share something we were reading. It wasn’t really planned, we just wanted to discuss our books with each other!

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These are only a few examples, but God’s grace never runs out!

There’s grace in every situation—we just need to look for it. God promises if we seek Him, we will find Him (see Jeremiah 29:13)!

Posted on in Gratitude, Life is Short, Miscellaneous, Perseverance, Pivot, Wisdom

Don’t Let the Fire Die

Last week, I talked about identifying apathy, which is the complete lack of emotion or desire. This week, I wanted to go a little further and review some ways to combat it or address it before it becomes an issue. Just like we might fan the flame on a campfire to prevent it from burning out, we can stoke ourselves to keep our love for God and others strong.

First, we must be honest with ourselves and God on how we are feeling. If we are creeping closer to apathy, we must acknowledge it. You can’t defeat what you can’t define. We can pray about our attitudes and take steps to deal with them in advance. Check your “why” and your motivation. Consider if there is sin or unforgiveness in your life. We are naturally selfish, so embrace the discomfort in order to figure it out.

Personally, I periodically have to remind myself that this is God’s Kingdom, not mine. Therefore, HIS will be done on Earth as it is in Heaven… Sooner or later, I accept that I am not in control and never will be. I remember that I can choose to get on board with what God wants me to do (and thrive), or I can choose to grumble, resist, drag my feet, and miss out on the blessing and joyful reward. Tough love!

Next, we can lean into self-care to shore up any area in which we are overextending ourselves. We cannot pour from an empty cup, and knowing about the seven types of rest can be a first step in feeling replenished. Sleep, gentle movement, proper nutrition, and taking a break from social media bring welcome renewal. Seeking professional support may be warranted here to process, plan, and reset boundaries. There is no shame in asking for help!

Learning to say “no” to the wrong things is a must! Once we do, we have the opportunity to say “yes” to the task(s) God has specifically for us. Sometimes, we just need to fill a gap or need, but if we never do anything that is personally fulfilling or part of our God-given call, then we will just circle back to burnout and be worse off than before.

We can also remember a grateful heart is a happy heart. Gratitude and serving others in practical ways can be a powerful combination to beat apathy. When we serve with the right priorities, God is glorified, we find our purpose and connect with others, and our problems come into perspective.

Finally, to prevent apathy and keep the fire going strong, try something new! This helps us get out of a rut when our routine feels boring. Maybe it is going on a trip or buying a nifty gadget, but don’t overlook all that we can do for free! Take a nature walk or find a different way home. Go to your local library to check out a book on an interesting topic or experiment in the kitchen for supper. Do an art project or listen to music. Find something that brings you joy!

Ultimately, our spiritual life is a vital part of who we are. We have value just as we are, and the Holy Spirit is the source of our spiritual fire. Thankfully, we don’t have to figure it all out or get our ducks in a row for God to love us or help us. He has everything we need, as we seek His Kingdom first. So, we can be kind to ourselves and come to Jesus!!

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Heavenly Father, all power and glory and dominion belong to You! Soften our hearts and  give us fresh fire. Help us see the bigger picture and all that is at stake if we remain blasé. In Jesus’ Name, Amen

Questions: How do you keep your spiritual fire stoked? What other ideas do you implement when apathy creeps in?

Task: Read about the lukewarm and ineffective church in Laodicea. They received a direct warning from Jesus in Heaven. Confess your apathy and ambivalence to the Lord. Use any tears and frustration as fuel to bring you back to where He wants you to be.

 

Posted on in Finding Grace Weekly Recap, Gratitude, Journey of Grace, Miscellaneous, Parenting, Wisdom

Finding Grace #548

You may have seen the acronym GRACE as God’s Riches At Christ’s Expense. Grace is also God’s unmerited favor, or God doing for us what we cannot.

I find grace overflowing with God’s love, joy, peace, blessings, mercy, power, provision, protection, and wisdom. Thank You, Jesus!

Where did I find God’s love and favor—His abundant grace—this week?!

This was a pretty good week, a mix of slower days with some important decisions!

Work was busy but fun. I brought some no bake cookies for a coworker’s birthday treat. I even took a few walks with my coworkers in between patients. I made sure to take them through the healing garden to count the Monarch butterflies. I introduced four of my coworkers to them this week, and at one point, we counted fifteen!

Lydia had a good week of school and likes her classes. She is learning to balance the block scheduling with one easier day and one that is more difficult. So far, the homework has been manageable.

This week, Lydia and I had to work through a situation where she disobeyed me. What she did was not the end of the world. However, I wanted to make sure she realized that sin always comes to light in the end. If we hide it, it will fester and then likely become a bigger issue when the truth comes out. Typically, Lydia doesn’t need me to discipline her much since she has a sensitive conscience and usually autocorrects. In this situation, she had already ‘fixed’ the problem, but failed to mention it to me in a timely manner… So, I enforced some real world consequences, and I hope she learned a lesson she won’t soon forget. We ended on a good note, and I am grateful for God’s help in parenting!

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These are only a few examples, but God’s grace never runs out!

There’s grace in every situation—we just need to look for it. God promises if we seek Him, we will find Him (see Jeremiah 29:13)!

Posted on in Finding Grace Weekly Recap, Gratitude, Journey of Grace, Miscellaneous, Parenting

Finding Grace #547

You may have seen the acronym GRACE as God’s Riches At Christ’s Expense. Grace is also God’s unmerited favor, or God doing for us what we cannot.

I find grace overflowing with God’s love, joy, peace, blessings, mercy, power, provision, protection, and wisdom. Thank You, Jesus!

Where did I find God’s love and favor—His abundant grace—this week?!

We had a good week easing into our next season!

Work was a little lighter this week. I was still fairly busy but had a few open spots, which let me catch up and work on some projects. It felt good!

The weather was perfect this week as we move closer to Autumn. I have enjoyed watching all the Monarch butterflies in the healing garden at work. Every day there seems to be a couple more, though I am sure they will soon start their great migration south.

Lydia had a great start to her Freshman year on Thursday. We went to the back-to-school night on Tuesday, which helped her feel more prepared. She likes her classes, and I think she will do well!

Today, Lydia worked on some homework, and I did my usual Saturday things. I’m trying to soak up the quiet, calmer pace before things really pick up in the next week or so!

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These are only a few examples, but God’s grace never runs out!

There’s grace in every situation—we just need to look for it. God promises if we seek Him, we will find Him (see Jeremiah 29:13)!

Posted on in Finding Grace Weekly Recap, Gratitude, Journey of Grace, Life is Short, Miscellaneous

Finding Grace #545

You may have seen the acronym GRACE as God’s Riches At Christ’s Expense. Grace is also God’s unmerited favor, or God doing for us what we cannot.

I find grace overflowing with God’s love, joy, peace, blessings, mercy, power, provision, protection, and wisdom. Thank You, Jesus!

Where did I find God’s love and favor—His abundant grace—this week?!

I had a great birthday week! Originally, I took the week off work for a trip, but we canceled it due to unexpected circumstances with our fellow travelers. We hope to reschedule, but I kept the time off anyway. I soon discovered God had a lot of other things planned for me instead!

On Sunday, after church, I attended a short training. I had been through a version of it years ago, but it was good to get up-to-date on ways to serve in the church. I prayerfully signed up for some activities this Fall, but we will see how it all pans out.

On Monday, Lydia and I did some back-to-school shopping, then cleaned the car and the garage. Later, I squeezed in a quick hair cut and met a friend for coffee. It was great to catch up!

On Tuesday, I got messages from two coworkers that I had a flower delivery. I was not expecting anything, so I went in to pick them up. Lydia came with me and had fun saying hi to my coworkers!

Tuesday evening was really special, as we met some old Caterpillar friends for dinner. They contacted us within seconds after we canceled our previous travel plans, so I feel like it was from God. It would have been a bummer to miss them; I always hold a special place in my heart for friends who actually knew Dave. Thanks, Lord!

I did not have any overt plans for my actual birthday on Wednesday. But that was 100% fine with me since it was good to relax! Also, I usually receive a ton of cards, calls, texts, and social media messages, so I like to take time to connect with everyone who thought of me and made me feel special. Thank you!!

Thursday was a good day for continuing education and errands. Mainly, I wanted to get a few things done to set us up better for when Lydia starts high school in a couple of weeks!!! In the evening, we had a blast attending a murder mystery dinner show. This was unlike your typical dinner theater. The cast was dressed like everyone else and was interspersed within the audience, so we all participated in solving the crime. The four-course meal was delicious, and we had a lot of laughs!

On Friday, I got my oil changed, along with some other minor car repairs. It was all part of my scheduled 120K-mile tuneup. I gotta keep my car in good working order! In the evening, Lydia and a friend met up with the church youth group for a Redhawks game before enjoying a sleepover at our house.

Today, I did Saturday things while Lydia and her friend slept in. Later, I took the girls shopping and out to eat. It was a fun end to my birthday week!

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These are only a few examples, but God’s grace never runs out!

There’s grace in every situation—we just need to look for it. God promises if we seek Him, we will find Him (see Jeremiah 29:13)!

Posted on in Fear, Faith, and Moving Forward book, Gratitude, Journey of Grace, Life is Short, MARPE/Orthodontics, Miscellaneous, Wisdom, Worship

Cheers to Another Year!

Today, I am celebrating another trip around the sun!! I am really grateful for all the ways God blessed me over the last year! Last summer, I sensed that He had something special for me. Soon I recalled that I was about three years old when I decided to follow Jesus… So, essentially, this was my fortieth year of walking with Him!

Here’s a quick recap of some of the highlights:

Last Fall, I finally had some landscaping done! It took me years to get around to it (to have the money, set it up, and make the decisions). But the Lord helped me follow through. No, I have not added any plants yet, lol. But, truthfully, I just love how the rocks look, and so the plants are not my top priority right now!

From September to May, I completed two semesters of leadership training at my church. This was a comprehensive class where we met once a month for teaching and did some online coursework. It covered many important topics and gave me more confidence in sharing my faith. I am excited to see what God has in store for me next!

After years of avoiding it, I made the decision to widen my palate and start orthodontics in January! I will get the metal MARPE device out in the next couple of months and then finish with more aligners. I am still hoping to avoid double jaw surgery, but I am happy with my progress so far!

In March, I went full-time at the VA, after years of being classified as part-time! I am grateful for all the ways God has provided for us since Dave died in 2013. He continues to be a wonderful Provider. Somehow His math always works out!

In May, Lydia and I flew to Chicago to see family and attend a barefoot shoe expo. Spending time with my sister was just what I needed! We hadn’t had that much time together – just the two of us – in many years! It was a fun trip and helped us get through the thirteen-year mark of Dave’s death. The Lord has been so faithful!

I have continued my journey to relieve pain and tension in my neck, shoulders, back, and hips. I’ve changed my workouts, practiced mobility exercises, gone to the chiropractor, prioritized sleep and rest, and said ‘no’ to better manage stress.  I can’t take good care of others if I don’t take care of myself! One specific praise is that in June the Lord healed my neck on the spot at a prayer event. I was surprised but gladly received His personalized gift.

I joined a book club at church, and it has been such a joy. Books + deep conversations about faith + friends = a few of my favorite things! Pretty much any book or genre is fair game. So far, we’ve read Murder, Motherhood, and Miraculous Grace by Debra Moerke, and also Seeking Allah, Finding Jesus by Nabeel Qureshi. Our current book, The Winning of Lady Wisdom, is by a North Dakota author, Sarah Dixon Young!

Over the last few months, Lydia and I have visited with several Caterpillar families. It’s really special when we meet up with friends who actually knew Dave when he was at his best. I appreciate how these dear ‘CAT guys’ still reach out to connect with us. Thank You, Jesus!

This year, I have greatly enjoyed watching Lydia grow in confidence and faith. She got her driver’s permit last fall, and it’s been fun watching her learn the rules of the road and put them into practice. I can’t believe she will start Freshman year in a couple of weeks! I’m extremely grateful for how God has gotten us to this point!

Finally, I’ve seen how God continues to use my story to help others. I have had the opportunity to share my book and, in some cases, to get together for coffee to encourage people: widows, moms, etc. After all, the highlights above don’t overlook the real struggles and sacrifices of the last year, but God’s goodness and grace triumph over them.

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Heavenly Father, thanks for Your faithfulness in my life. It is a privilege to walk with You every day and move Your heart. May I never take it for granted! Help me continue to be a blessing to others so they may know You, too. In Jesus’ Name, Amen

Questions: As you reflect on the past year of your life, where do you see God’s faithfulness? Have you thanked Him for all He has done for you, or are you focused only on the lack?

Task: If you’ve read this far, the yellow roses in the picture were sent to me at work yesterday!! It was a timely reminder that God sees me – and it felt like a capstone to finish off an amazing year. My kind, generous friend was simply obeying what God told him to do, and we had a good chat about all that He is doing in our lives. We don’t always know the outcome of our obedience, but as Dr. Charles Stanley always said, “Obey God and leave all the consequences to Him.”

Posted on in Gratitude, Miscellaneous, Wisdom, Worship

No Need to Earn Status

I came across an advertisement recently that said collecting points in their membership program was “a new way to earn status.” Of course, a purchase was required! The more money spent, the faster you earned rewards. Naturally…

As soon as I heard that, I was indignant. I told Lydia, “That is not right! There’s no need to earn ‘status!’ We already have it in Jesus!”

As I thought about it more, I grew more annoyed. The world wants us to obsess about earning and achieving. The implication is that there is always something else to work towards. But, praise God, Jesus already accomplished all that needs to be done!

Our part is to believe that Jesus is Lord, agree with Him that we need to be saved, and place our full trust in Him (that His sacrificial death and Resurrection are enough). That is all that He requires. Straightforward faith with nothing added to it.

Here are some Bible verses about our identity in Christ. That is all that matters!

  • 2 Corinthians 5:17 – “Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come.”
  • Galatians 2:20 – “I have been crucified with Christ, and it is no longer I who live, but Christ who lives in me. The life I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me.”
  • Ephesians 2:10 – “For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.”
  • Colossians 3:3 – “For you died, and your life is now hidden with Christ in God”
  • 1 Peter 2:9 – “But you are a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people for his own possession, that you may proclaim the excellencies of him who called you out of darkness into his marvelous light.”
  • John 1:12 – “But to all who did receive him, who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God” affirms adoption into God’s family and the privileges of being His child.
  • Romans 8:16-17 – “The Spirit himself testifies with our spirit that we are God’s children… Now if we are children, then we are heirs—heirs of God and co-heirs with Christ.”
  • 2 Corinthians 5:21 – “For our sake he made him to be sin who knew no sin, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God.”

We are transformed in Christ, leaving behind the old self and embracing a renewed life in Him. We live by faith in Jesus and are intentionally designed for purpose and good works. The Holy Spirit empowers us, and we reflect His glory with our attitudes and actions. We are adopted into God’s family, and our full inheritance is found in Jesus. We are beloved, called, and redeemed. All we have and all we need is in Him!

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Heavenly Father, thanks for choosing us and caring for us. You do all things well. Help us remember the high calling You have on our lives. May we glorify You in all we do. In Jesus’ Name, Amen

Questions: If we are constantly worrying about getting ahead, what does that say about our faith in God’s provision?! Which verse above speaks to you the most?

Task: Print the verses above and place them on your bathroom mirror or on your vehicle’s dashboard… or somewhere you will see them often. Let the Lord renew your mind and help you understand all He has for you!