My Story, My Why: Intervention no. 10

My Story of a Personal Intervention

Finding God in the Daily

The purpose of this intervention series is to wake us up to the problem of pain, distance, lifelessness, and separation in a Christian’s life.

No matter the person, they must realize there is a problem to solve before they can take action to resolve it. The next section of this series presents troubles on the home front. These problems are quite real. They should not to be ignored as just problems of willful rebellion, although for some this could be true. 

My hope is to create an awareness of the deeper need that has gone mainly unnoticed in the church. After identifying the need, comes a solution in answer to the lack. This series offers ways for finding God as the Helper and Healer, the remedy and solution, to pain, suffering, depletion, deadness, and disillusionment. 

Most of what I write comes by way of personal experiences borne out of my heart's longing for God. My instruction came after I asked God to heal and change me. He did both. Through the lessons learned over the course of my spiritual journey, I  wakened to the deeper understanding of what it is to sit at the table and learn of Him. I discovered God to be real and caring and as a close friend for all seasons. My story is not included but you may listen to my story of transformation on my nlbrumbaugh log here.

I start at the backend from the viewpoint of a believer who thinks they’re doing just fine, believes they’ve dealt with their issues, is obedient spiritually, and is more or less content with their life. This satisfied Christian believer is stuck. Stuck means inmoveable. In this case, their get-along needs to get going.  Spiritual depth won't drop in their lap willy-nilly. It doesn't work that way.

This writing’s argument first exposes a limited Christian belief. This view says all is good and you are right where you should be as an upstanding Christian. You do the Christian thing well. You are obedient, faithful, and forgive those who hurt you. You go also go to church, read a devotional, pray, and treat people right.

If this is you, read on.

Most likely you are living your Christian life with some self-enacted limitations. You have erected a shield to hide any hidden issues in the interior self that have caused some kind of dysfunction, pain, emotional damage, anger,  trauma, or conflict. You've covered up those things that keep you traumatized or in bondage. You try and try and try but you never seem to measure up.

This is no way to live. There is a better way.

More tomorrow.

Dear Father, We are so thankful that you care about us and want us to be well in our spirit. Amen

To God be the Glory 

A Message of Life

Inspiration 48  

† † †

Where to Start: Intervention no. 9

How to Become Healthy and Whole

Finding God in the Daily

 The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want.
He makes me lie down in green pastures.
He leads me beside still waters. He restores my soul.

Psalm 23:1-3  ESV

The only way a person can be authentic in their Christian walk is to be close to the Source of spiritual life. This is an on-going process that frees, heals, and rejuvenates the soul-side of living.

A HOLY SOUL-CHANGING INTERVENTION begins when we get alone with God, take spiritual inventory of everything in our past and present, and ask God what to do about it. Similar to a computer scan that  exposes viruses to get rid of them, the Holy Spirit reveals those areas that are damaging our inner selves that we might be free of their negative influences.

First, the mask must come off. People put their best foot forward. They strive to  project wholeness and capability. Christians may believe they have to act like they have it together spiritually. Troublesome areas may be hidden from view. Masks do well at masking the true nature of how it really is inside. This acts as a sort of charade or pretending that hides the true condition of their reality. Believers want to be accepted and respected so the pretense continues to play its empty tune.

When we fail to recognize the internal state of affairs, a falseness enters. There can be a lot of garbage that needs taking out. Uncovering secret sins, hurts, resentments, and then dealing with them in a spiritual manner, is a process that takes time, effort, and God's grace. But it is worth it in every way.

A pattern of healthy spiritual living is then established through spiritually motivated disciplines that take us further still and make us more like Christ.

God transforms as He renews the mind, reveals transgressions, and teaches us to yield to Him. This takes an honest look with no excuses, blame, or self-righteous attitudes. It is in the raw moment of truthfulness that the seed of a soul-changing intervention is sown that will unlock this inner cell where the real self is hidden. Thus begins a life of surrender to God and living life His way. God refreshes, heals, restores, as a transparent identity with God is established.

Whoever pursues a close relationship with God will seek change and change will come. God uses friends, family, and a host of circumstances to bring His children to a place of open talk with Him. This is always good. They, we, become Father with child and child with Father in a close, intimate, loving, connected relationship that brings much joy and inner peace.

Father God, How we need Thee. We need Thee every hour of every day. Amen

To God be the Glory

A Message of Life
Inspiration 47

Relationship with God: Intervention no. 8

Christian Life is about Relationship

Finding God in the Daily

But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; 

and all these things shall be added unto you.

Matthew 6:33  KJV

Christians have something special that no one can take away from them. They have a living relationship with God.

THE MORE WE LOVE GOD, the more we are able and free to share His love. Spiritual truth enlivens and equips the Christian for what life throws at them as the focus moves from rules, regulations, and scripted spirituality to a life of faith, trust, and fullness in God. Healing of damaged emotions from past painful experiences dovetail with a life embedded in a living relationship tempered and held fast by God.

Spiritual life like this is not established without challenge and hard work but at the same time it is anchored with meaning and strength. In this way, a true seeker of God comes to the knowledge of God in the context of a living relationship with Him. The result is to know and experience an ever-deepening awareness and inner awakening that stirs the soul to radiant life.

A relationship with God is one of strength and enjoyment, hope and help, love and goodness. This is a reciprocal friendship. The believer goes from duty-bound to love-bound as the relationship becomes genuine, closer, and intimate. Obedience and service spring forth from this relationship, out of the believer's love for God and also as an outworking of His love in them. The Christian's spiritual life continues to grow as they desire and receive pleasure in pleasing their Father God. 

Before this turned toward the better good, there was spiritual purpose without spiritual process, like an end without the means. What was missing in their spirituality was an emphasis on developing a spiritual-personal relationship with God as in a life totally integrated with the touch of God. 

What does this kind of relationship look like? 
    - It is about relationship with Father God, Christ Jesus, 
            and the Holy Spirit. 
         - It is about embracing Christ and staying there until He 
                begins to change you. 
              - It is a process of adding love to love to love to love.
                   - It is about changing what needs changing
                       and being fine with it.

Once God becomes real to the individual, then life as a Christ-follower is established on a foundation that does not crumble when life gets hard or disappointing.

Relationship is relationship. Like in a healthy relationship, when we love someone and they love us, we will want to please them. We draw upon this friend during the hard times. They are honest with us, speak the truth with us. We can depend on this friend when we are not at our best. 

This is this way is is with God. God is our all in all, our Deliverer, our Sustainer, our Lover, and our Redeemer. God makes all things new in His time.

Dear Father in Heaven, Thank you for Your love, faithfulness, and kindness. Amen

To God be the Glory

A Message of Life
Inspiration 46

When Christianity Leaves a Void -- Intervention no. 7

 Why the Religious Thing Unravels

Finding God in the Daily

Therefore, my beloved, as you have always obeyed, 

so now, not only as in my presence but much more in my absence, 

work out your own salvation with fear and trembling, 

for it is God who works in you, 

both to will and to work for his good pleasure. 

Philippians 2:12,13  ESV

God is in the life-changing business. What He does when we let Him minister to us is absolutely wonderful.

  
A SPIRITUAL RELATIONSHIP that is health-giving and health-receiving provides the impetus to live a genuine Christian life that has victory and power in its inner workings, its out workings, and in a satisfying, refreshing, and real way. However, this is not the case for many in the church.

The reasons for this phenomenon has to do with their spiritual life itself. If it isn't changing the person and isn't ministering to them in a life-giving way, then it is self-limiting and spiritual-limiting. This has consequences. Dullness, despair, and areas of unmet needs and unresolved issues begin to bog down weary Christians.

Those who do not function well within the church’s parameters may eventually abandon their faith or head in another direction. The church fails at times to address those troublesome gray areas. In particular, sometimes it fails to help those wounded by life or struggling with areas of bondage. They need something more than the church is offering. But sadly, the church is not equipped to help them. 

This is one of the flaws that trips up many a person and keeps them from returning to the "fold." The unfortunate side to this is when hurting people are convinced they may never measure up or be good enough to enter fully in the Christian community unless they attempt to pretend the part.

The equation of "being spiritual" with a list of specific spiritual behaviors is an end in itself--a performance-based Christian lifestyle. This can fall flat. As I have mentioned before, Christianity is not limited to salvation, obedience, service, prayer, bible reading and bible study, though, they are important spiritual disciplines and a Christian needs them and won't grow without them.

But there's more, and this is where all these other things sweeten the deal into a beautiful work of God. The Christian who desires to be alive and tender to the things of God seeks to grow and develop their relationship with Christ. This is where it's at and where the healing and promise of inner freeing begins.

This makes all the difference in
    how they live it,
           how they manage it, and
                how they are empowered to heal, grow, and thrive in it.

God is in the life changing business. He takes us, problems and all, and ministers to us. He holds up a mirror, with His illumination, He lets us see into our soul. We see the big picture--our scars, self-centeredness, lacks, strengths, and talents--and He helps us deal with them. God asks us to seek Him. When we do, it opens wide out. We begin to get real with God. We stop hiding and pretending. We take our salvation and spiritual life to a new level. It is wonderful! So very wonderful. I can't state how wonderful it becomes when our life with God becomes a warm and loving experience full of trust and joy.

Dear Father God, I want this sort of relationship for all my readers. May they know You, trust You, and abide in You. They will be blessed and enriched by Your loving Presence. Amen

To God be the Glory

A Message of Life.

Inspiration 45

The 'Quick Fix' Problem: Intervention no. 6

 The Quick-Fix Doesn't Always Take

Finding God in the Daily

 Commit your way to the Lord;
    trust in him, and he will act.

 Psalm 37:5  ESV

You can't do better unless you have a vision for what 'better' looks like. I discovered that we in the church are confused about our 'why.' That's what this intervention series is about.

SOME THINGS IN THE CHURCH seemed strange to me once I started paying attention without rose-colored glasses on. Sisters and brothers were falling away from faith. Why couldn’t they sustain their belief? The church thought they were rebellious. But were they? Looking back now, I realize some of these individuals, especially the ones that questioned, were not understood very well. There was more to it than was obvious at first blush.

People were seen as either in the camp or outside the camp. There was little gray area or room to debate areas of struggle. The many issues of questionable or wrong behaviors were lumped together and labeled as sinful behavior. Some were, but some were not. The common solution offered in most cases was to repent and get right with God. 

Somewhat like after the prodigal’s return, when a person did get right with God, there would be a return to the church, God, and God’s ways, as set forth by the church and based on biblical principles. It was assumed the prodigal would experience spiritual victory with a return to righteous, spiritual living. Such, was the logical conclusion. 

Though logical, it didn't always work out that way. People still struggled. Although the pattern for the faithful life was formulated with good intentions and valued for addressing truth as it relates to scripture, it had one major flaw. Better said, it had one glaring, missing component, a major lack within its parameters for living a victorious Christian life. The teaching didn't go far enough.

Some have stumbled upon the missing element, like I did. Others have found it as they drew closer and closer to the all knowing Source. Some continue on as they have have been taught, equating salvation, prayer, bible reading, bible study, and obedience as the express parts that make up the whole of Christian living. Yet, there still is that glaring defect. One only has to look around to notice a serious conundrum. The problem is, the formula doesn't work for everyone.

Too many stop short of going further still, because
     a) they aren't interested,
          b) they don't know it's possible, and
               c) they don't know how to get there.

That's the case I'm building here, day after day, post after post.

You will learn
      1. What the problem looks like in the Christian community.
          2. How to deal with it by using an evergreen solution.
               3. The joy and healing the solution produces in individuals,
                    communities, and globally.

That is what this is about. An intervention is curative. It uncovers why past practices don't work for everyone and it helps change it up. Your better spiritual life is not about doing things right or being a good person. It is about developing a personal relationship with God that is life-giving, healing, health building, gracious, intimate, and real.

More tomorrow.

Dearest Father. Thank you for giving us this message of hope. Amen

To God be the Glory

A Message of life.
Daily Inspiration 44

Christ in You - Intervention, no. 5

 As It Were

 Finding God in the Daily

To them God chose to make known how great among the Gentiles 

are the riches of the glory of this mystery, 

which is Christ in you, the hope of glory. 

Colossians 1:27

Spiritual approaches are not all alike, not even close. The motivators differ.

LIKE MANY RAISED in the faith community, my childhood was happy. I had loving parents who lived the walk, were faithful, true and consistent. It was a good home.

I was a devoted Christian and consistent churchgoer and was an active participant in the on-going liveliness found in the faith-based community.  My religious background sheltered me and my family life protected me. It was a good life and a conservative life.

Because of my background and my own desire to live a holy life, a blind-spot arose regarding an area of human struggle within this same spiritual community. Much of my religious instruction was shaped around two fundamental beliefs that provided the framework for our Christian lives. 

First, we learned that we needed to be saved. This was taught and preached faithfully and frequently. The church community shared with its people what scripture teaches, that salvation of a soul comes through saving faith in Jesus Christ.

Second, Christians were to live a moral, separate from the world, holy life. We lived in obedience to God as set forth in the Holy Word. Close adherence to certain standards of action and behavior were expected. This structure didn’t have much bend or wiggle room, but I accepted it and did my best to abide by its teachings. It bothered me that some in the church struggled to abide by its teachings

Much later, I began to understand why they struggled. The church’s beliefs were not where it fell short, even though it had a legalistic bent. I now believe its motivation was off. People were working hard for God, but they could never do enough. In this case, the focus was on Christian work and obedience, not on the God of the work and relationship with Him. There is a distinction between the two approaches.

Life in the spirit is its own motivator. When the Spirit leads, it is then the base for action and behavior set in God. Christians are best served when their actions stem from their relationship with God rather than trying hard to live the best they can in every way they can. They will either fail and feel miserable or they will look good and become prideful or somewhere in the middle.

Christ first. Christ always. Christ in you.

Dear Gracious Father, Help us to get this right. We want to be salt and light in the world, the best we can be. But without you we are unable, and we can't hope to get it right. Be our motivation. Amen

To God be he Glory

A Message of Life
Inspiration 44

I'm Free Today: Intervention, no. 4

Bound Yesterday, Free Today

Finding God in the Daily

If the Son therefore shall make you free, ye shall be free indeed.

 John 8:36

The destination of the spiritual sojourner unfolds as it is lived out. 

I AM A FREE PERSON TODAY.  It hasn’t always been this way. Life used to be confusing and less fulfilling. Through a soul-changing process over time God brought me to a place of freedom and joy. It's changed my life and my perspectives. 

My point of view has altered somewhat as to what it is to be a sweet aroma of Christ in the world, church, and community. Love and grace are spiritually endued gifts of any Christian. 

God uses us.

The more we develop our spiritual, emotional, mental, and intellectual lives,
   the more we rely on the Spirit to guide and enable us,
      the more we are in-tune with others,
          the more we exhibit the fruits of the spirit,
              > the more we can expect God to use us in others' lives.

The time comes, though, when there is a drain on personal energy and supply: Some whom we help take advantage, some have physical, mental, and emotional needs, not to mention their addictions and dysfunction. As much as we may want to, we can't meet every need nor are we equipped to do so.

Two concerns
1) We can't help everybody nor would it be wise to do so. Common sense is needed.
2) We can't give them what we don't have ourselves. Platitudes mean little.

Two solutions
1) Use discernment and godly wisdom and follow your gut feeling. Be wise spiritually.
2) Share what you have those times God puts someone in your path. Be pro-active.

Like much in Christian life, we can't do this kind of thing in our own strength (unless our talents are in that area). It is best to rely on God to facilitate the discussion. This enables us to do and say what we didn't think ourselves capable of doing and saying. It is a beautiful thing to be used by God-- wherever it takes us, to assist whomever.

God loves others through our obedience to Him. God uses what we know and the power of our transformation to be lights in the world. This has everything to do with our embracing Christ and His embracing us back. God is in control. He is the loving controller of our lives and all things. Notice where He is at work.

After experiencing my spiritual transformation--from a spiritual life based on duty and performance to a spiritual life based on love and God’s goodness--I can look at my back trail and see parallels in my choices and the way God uses them for the better good.

God healed pockets of painful emotions within me. These areas blinded me to the true condition of my inner self. Now that I'm free from their bondage I can speak to the need. I promised God I would do so back in 2002. This is why I want other silent suffers to tap into real, loving, enlivened, spiritual life.

Dear Father, You are a good God. You make us to lie down by still waters. You restore our souls. You lead us in the paths of righteousness for Your name's sake and our betterment. Praise and thanksgiving. Amen

More to come.

To God be the Glory

A message of life.

Inspiration 43

From Here to There: Intervention, no. 3 -- Inspiration 42

From Here to There: Spiritual Transformation

Finding God in the Daily

It is the Spirit who gives life; the flesh is no help at all. 

The words that I have spoken to you are spirit and life.

John 6:63

Pain, disappointments, and wounds get buried. To allow them in the conversation might seem at odds with spiritual belief. The truth is, coverups don't work in spiritual life. Issues need to be addressed with God to live freely in the spirit. 

Active engagement with God affects spiritual perceptions. Reorganization in the interior self initiates an altering of viewpoint. Impact in the hidden place, which long functioned as a repository for hurts, wounds, and struggle, is inevitable. Hiding the wounded self is natural in believing Christians for many reasons. This is problematic. Hiding behind belief creates a false front. Internalized pain erects a barrier that disrupts the flow between experience and belief.

For spiritual life to thrive, the barriers need to come down. After the shake-up happens, when the spiritual awakens and enlivens the soul, those formerly empty clichés no longer ring a false note. Experience and belief blend into one solid, health-building unit. Gone are pretense and disillusionment. The means to get there takes a process and some doing.

Once the deeper understanding is apprehended and becomes part of daily experience, spiritual life is anchored in such a way that the person becomes secure, content, confident and able to function well while in the best and worst of times. Because spiritual life is centered and secure, the personal flows hand-in-hand with the spiritual. No longer does a breach separate belief from experience. The two operate on the same page and act in tandem with each other.

The effects of this are wonderful. Newness in outlook and refreshment in the spirit have internal liveliness and quiet authority. Others can't help but notice the change. What is this? they ponder. A thing of beauty, transformational and real, is happening right before their eyes. From the inside to out, the Christ-life is transformational, and it shows. This amazes onlookers.

In the context of a soul-changing intervention, what transpires throughout the process is utterly life-changing and is evident once the intervention has culminated. It is like how you know you are free once you experience freedom. God heals, engages the heart, mind, and soul, sets free, and opens a new path.

A soul-changing intervention enacts several steps that enable a living relationship with God. God, plus the individual, are in this for the long haul. They cannot act independent of each other for this is a joint venture. To be frank, a soul-changing intervention is an active time of serious soul searching combined with intentional seeking of God for answers and truth.

Dear Father, Thank you. You meet us where we're at and it doesn't phase You. Amen

To God be the Glory

 

 *More in my next post.

Swimming Upstream: Intervention, no. 2 -- Inspiration 41

Swimming Upstream without a Paddle

Finding God in the Daily

 But how can a man be in the right before God? 

Job 9:10. ESV

Your Christian experience is good but not great, but you really want it to be great and not just 'good enough.' Is the problem with you, with God, or with your spiritual life?

WHO ARE WE FOOLING? Life as a Christian isn’t all that easy, is it? We think we know how it should be. We parrot the lingo. The clichés abound. Just give it to God. Living the abundant life. God wants us to be happy. Trust the Lord and everything will be okay . I KNOW this is God’s will (this one is especially bothersome). But it doesn't seem to pan out that way. It is irksome when personal experience fails to match spiritual belief.

Christians often ignore the fact that for them spiritual living is empty. That would mean they'd have to admit there is a problem. This troublesome scenario indicates the problem is with them, or worse, there is a problem with their belief system. Aren’t Christians supposed to be happy and victorious? Hm. Yes, they should be. This is true.

This gets a little uncomfortable and hits too close to home. (I’ve been watching what's going on, and I’ve been on both sides of the equation. Something is going on.) More often than not, people's conversations express their true truth and thinking about the matter. Not all is well. It is easy to find fault with the way it is, and rightly so. 

 Christians are swimming upstream without a paddle. 

When it's not going as well as they expect, when the internal dialogue gives way to the negative, when struggles and conflicts slow them down or are at cross-purposes, discouragement or denial sets in. Such is common to human experience. But why does it have to be so hard? they ask. The real reason escapes them.

Could it be that something else is contributing to the mismatch of belief versus experience?

Could there be a reason for the hollow sound in the clichés, when the talk fails to match the walk? Something is amiss. The need for a change in perspective or for a Spirit led, soul-changing intervention suggests a roadblock is ahead and a choice is in front of them. Their spiritual path will come to a Y.  A choice is upon them that may well determine their spiritual destiny.

Good news! They are right where they need to be. God is ready to intervene. He has a plan, and He has the tools. May the soul-changing intervention begin. Now comes the uniting of  human self with the holy Triune God whereby forcing an end to mediocre spirituality. Let the journey commence. Straight ahead the adventure awaits. Hang on . . .

To God be the Glory

The Stuff of Real Life: Intervention, no. 1 -- Inspiration 40

  Interventions are the Stuff of Real Life

Finding God in the Daily

Commit your way to the Lord; 
trust in him, and he will act.
Psalm 37:5

  
Who needs a spiritual intervention? Most of us do. You may immerse yourself in your own personally motivated intervention. It may well be the best thing you ever do to get on the bright side of spirituality.

INTERVENTIONS have a purpose. In essence, they put their loved one on notice, to face it, change it, and improve it. Basically, a group stages an intervention to confront the issue and create awareness that something needs to change. Drug addictions and alcoholism are common causes for interventions. Interventions acknowledge the person’s struggle and demonstrate how it affects them and others.

An intervention is an effective 'Come to Jesus' moment with a come-along-side you-need-to-do-this approach.

A soul-changing intervention is for spiritual growth and any area that inhibits healthy spirituality. It provides a process to get to the heart of harmful issues and unhealthy bonds. Christians can be blind to their own stuff and unaware of areas that keep them in bondage. Friends, relatives, or God, may help them face their deal. God is good at this. He awakens people from their slumber.

God may initiate the intervention to address a problem and to show the hiding is over. As the result of a spiritual intervention, the individual takes steps to overcome it, take ownership of it, and institute a plan that aims to alter harmful behavior. The goal is to live free of its control and to become healthy and whole.

An intervention involves a plan of action and loving support. Those who intervene risk discomfort when they participate in an intervention to help their loved one. Their concern supersedes their own personal comfort. Participants encourage necessary changes and offer moral support. 

God is the same way with us.

God initiates an intervention by showing us where we are stuck. He works toward the goal and offers a path to freedom. By the way, this is quite doable. I've experienced it. God showed me what needed to change. Next I went about the business of changing it -- all the time asking Him to guide and help me.

To do this, you see the situation for what it is, and then become an active participant in your own transforming. Healing is accessed by a spiritual transforming in your interior life. This facilitates the ability to live life with spiritual acuity. A side benefit is you grow closer to God.

Dear Father, Help us. We need You to show us our lacks and our abilities. Give us courage to carry on and strength to meet our needs. Amen

To God be the Glory

The Spirit Life Rocks -- Inspiration 39

Make Your Life Count for the Good

  

So every good tree bears good fruit, 

but the bad tree bears bad fruit.

Matthew 7:17

People with a purpose live differently than those who meander along without one. Christians have a common purpose, to glorify God. How they do this involves living in the Spirit and developing a sensitivity to God's ways. This leads to fruitful living.

EVERY LIFE has potential. What an individual chooses to do with their life is up to them, barring outside manipulation, control, misfortune, or unwanted circumstances. Life can be lived for the better good. That happens when the person desires and determines to live in such a way. It is not as easy as it sounds. We can be our own worst enemy.

 Humans are born with a self-centered bent that requires managing. Scripture calls this the flesh. The flesh seeks its own and has lusts it wants to feed. Christians also have the spirit in them. The things of the flesh and the things of the spirit are oppositional in nature. Only one of these controls the person at any given time. The flesh is the default position. Even though the Spirit lives within the Christian, it is not given free access until the person aligns with it. This requires intentionality.

The Spirit dwells in the Christian. Their lives, with both flesh and spirit influences, means there is going to be spiritual conflict. Whichever one receives the focus will influence their thoughts and actions. Of course, anyone can do good and make their life count without being a Christian, that's a given. The person focused on Christ and open to the Spirit lives in a way that is becoming to their Lord. Their life becomes a reflection of Christ both inwardly and outwardly. 

The Spirit leads and guides in a multiplicity of ways. Christians can't help but bear good fruit when they're attached to things of God. You can know them by their deeds, conversation, and also, consequently, by their fruit. Often their fruit is produced behind the scenes and is not overtly visible unless you look for it, for they do their alms for God, not for human praise. So we could say, they are also known for their humbleness of spirit. 

Dear Father, Thank you for giving us the tools to live the life You've called us to. We couldn't do it without Your enabling. Blessed be the name of the Lord. Amen

To God be the Glory

A 'Let's Get Real' Conversation -- Inspiration 38

Finding God in the Daily

It's Not Too Late

And He said to them, "Go into all the world and preach the gospel to all creation.

Mark 16:15  NASV

We think the time has passed, but thinking like that is in error. Christians have a mission to speak life to others. It is up to them to get past shut doors to enter the public arena.

PEOPLE BELIEVE what they want to believe even if it isn't true. For them, validity comes when others agree with them or they agree with others. The more they hear a set view the more they believe it is true until someone upsets the apple cart. Beliefs are that way. Some current spiritual beliefs are out of sync with culture at large. Christianity, for instance, has lost favor these days.

Many are conditioned to hold Christian belief in contempt. Recent church scandals shore up this thinking to some degree. I believe some of this suspicion is the fault of Christians for not being salt and light in the world, and some of it thrives in a cultural system that denigrates Christian belief as contemptible nonsense. A lack of Christian love towards others makes the gospel unreadable for persons without faith. (How we need people who walk the walk like Keith Green did.)

Instead of going into hiding, I sincerely believe the bearers of the message of Christianity need to find a better way to communicate its truth to the masses. Let's look at Christ's actions. Jesus stood up to the bullies, called a spade, a spade, helped the poor, loved the unlovely, ministered to the spiritually hungry, and was true to His Father in Heaven. He was a man on a mission and wouldn't take any guff. Jesus was gentle in spirit and welcomed the children. His compassion and truth-talk defined Him.

Maybe more people would be challenged in their fixed beliefs about Christianity if  they could actually see the God-person of Christ in His followers. Maybe the skeptics would be impressed by the warmth of the gospel and in the Christ-followers. Maybe, just maybe, Christians can learn how to articulate the message of life in a way that people can hear, to a world that desperately needs it--that's on life support--that needs a hope and a promise for a better tomorrow. Christ promises living water for those who are thirsty. Are you thirsty? Quench your thirst in Christ. Come alive. Be blessed.

Dear Father God, Your message is life. We pray for those who can't hear Your message. May we articulate it to others in a way they can receive. May we be love to all. Amen

To God be the Glory

God Alone, Really? -- Inspiration 37

The Trouble with Idolizing

Finding God in the Daily

Thou shalt have no other gods before me.

Exodus 20:3  KJV

It creeps me out when I see Christians idolize pastors and leaders with celebratory status. They are not gods. It concerns me when parents idolize their children to the extreme. I think we must be careful lest we worship a person or thing rather than God. It's called idolatry. Let's be free of it.

A FORM OF IDOLATRY happens in some Christian homes. Idolizing someone or some thing leads to wrong-minded thinking about the person or thing. This type of idolizing occurs when the person or thing is put on a pedestal and viewed worshipfully and possessively. God says that He alone is to be worshiped. A parent may idolize their talented child and attribute over-zealous attention to the child's success. In a relationship, one friend can idolize the other friend and practically worship the ground they walk on. Almost anything is subject to this temptation i.e. politics, religion, nature, culture, pleasures.

Families can idolize their roots; 

     churches, their denominations; 

          institutions, their status; 

               sports, their heroes;

                    individuals, their achievements.

To revere and hold in high regard any of these is fine. Heroes and such are important to the conversation. People's passions are fine, as well. Spiritually speaking, the problem surfaces when people, things, and accomplishments are elevated to god-like status. They probably don't know they're doing that nor do they know that idolizing can become a form of idolatry, which is offensive to God. It is a subtle thing that as it grows gets out of hand. Attention placed where it belongs and according to God's truths keeps a right focus. Little gods have no place in the Christian life. And that's a good thing. God alone deserves our praise and worship.

Dear Father God. We're sorry for idolizing people and other things. Forgive us, we ask. Thank you. You are holy. You are mighty and just. Praise Your holy name. In Jesus name, Amen.

A Silence that Empowers - Inspiration 36

 Experience Quiet in a World of Unrest

 Finding God in the Daily

 Blessed is the man
    who walks not in the counsel of the wicked, 

nor stands in the way of sinners, nor sits in the seat of scoffers;

 but his delight is in the law of the Lord,
    and on his law he meditates day and night.

He is like a tree planted by streams of water 

that yields its fruit in its season, and its leaf does not wither.

Psalm 1:1-3  ESV

Spiritual life is not that easy. It faces fear just like the rest of the world does. However, time spent in the stillness accesses the quietness of peace found in God's presence. Being alone with God is a spiritual discipline that develops intimacy with God. Peace is its reward.

HOW TO BE QUIET in a world of unrest is in a state of being. Those who know Christ as their Savior and maintain close fellowship with Him are able to center themselves in Him. This is cultivated as one matures in their spiritual relationship. Quietness is facilitated through times alone with God without the demands of outside influences. The Holy Spirit ministers with wisdom, grace, and understanding. In the quiet place it is easier to be still enough to enter the peacefulness of presence with God. The person slows down everything else to listen and commune in a close intimate way. Elijah heard God's still, small voice when he needed it most. He drew strength from God and the courage to go on. We can too. God doesn't act like a magician, He doesn't remove the fear or unrest. Instead, God gives the wherewithal to help minimize the effects of stress caused by the unrest around you. His presence buoys your spirit up. He ministers in the internal place in the person where the fear would rage if it was left to do so. Seek God in the stillness. Rest in His Presence. Like the tree by the river, be filled with what God gives. Angst and fear lessens in the context of presence and strength found in the peace of God.

Dear Father God, Blessed we are to sit at Your table, partake of Your bounty, and center ourselves in Your peace. You promise us peace, "Peace I leave with you, not of the world give I unto you." Praises. Amen

To God be the Glory

Secular v Christian Worldviews -- Inspiration 35

Discover Your World View

Finding God in the Daily

As a man thinketh in his heart, so is he.

Proverbs 23:7. KJV

 Your worldview matters. For the Christian it is helpful to know if you have a secular or spiritual worldview. This will impact your decisions going forward. Is God an ongoing conversation in your life?

AN ADULT'S WORLDVIEW encompasses what he or she believes about life; their philosophy of life and conception of the world. It is not possible to have two worldviews competing and tangling. This would project in two different realms and function on separate planes. There is some confusion going on. Religious people can be secular oriented and perform spiritually. Is this a competing worldview? Quite possibly. To figure it out whether a world view is secular or spiritual takes a bird's-eye view. Follow a person's habits, desires, and conversations and it soon becomes apparent. A spiritual worldview is where the things of God flow as a natural process throughout the person's life. On the other hand, some Christians compartmentalize their spiritual activities as an add-on to their normal routines. They are more of a secular view with spiritual overtures. It helps to be mindful of this. Where God is active in a person's life will show. When God 's presence is not all that meaningful then the spiritual gives way to the secular. A worldview where Christ comes first is defined by Him being given preeminence. A spiritual worldview will look for God in everything, which includes God in the daily. In this case, daily functionality is mixed with a Jesus dynamic and a living spiritual dimension.

Dear Father God, our world needs You and Your loving touch. May we awaken to the meaning You impart to in our own lives. Amen

To God be the Glory

God is Greater than the Enemy -- Inspiration 34

Greater is He that is in You

Finding God in the Daily

Little children, you are from God and have overcome them, 

for he who is in you is greater than 

he who is in the world. 

1 John 4:4  ESV

Christians can be easily defeated until they claim the scriptural promises that speak truth in the situation. God is greater than he that is in the world.

GOD IS GREATER than he that is in the world. During times of what is called 'spiritual warfare,' it is a comfort and encouragement to know God is on the winning side against evil and injustice. Christians can claim this while in the middle of a battle where the enemy is using his tricks to trip us up. There is power in the name of Jesus. In the name of Jesus you can confront the wicked and dismantle the traps put in your path. You can orally say Jesus' name. Name it and claim it. You can pray for protection. You can focus your mind on Jesus. Speak to Him and picture yourself kneeling humbly before Him, asking for help. Saying, "Jesus" gives strength and banishes fear. Claim this promise and believe. Receive His blessedness.

Dear Father in Heaven, praise to Father, Son, and Spirit. We are thankful for Your protection, love, and kindness. You are greater than he that is in the world. This comforts us. Wonderful You are to us. Amen

To God be the Glory

In Pursuit of God -- Inspiration 33

The Joy of Knowing God

You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart 

and with all your soul and with all your mind.

Matthew 22:37

God can be known. Astounding as that may sound, it is true. God seeks relationship with His children. They can seek relationship with Him. This involves getting closer to God.

KNOWING GOD is a pursuit of the richest kind. Apprehending knowledge about God is one thing, but actual knowing God is another. The two are not the same. To know someone implies intimacy. You don't know someone or something unless you are familiar with them. The same is true for knowing God. One has to immerse themselves totally in seeking God to know Him. God desires for His children to know Him. He delights in this endeavor. We know this through Scripture's encouragement to love God with heart, mind, and soul. To know God is to love Him. Allow God access by engaging in activities of spiritual pursuit

1. Read the Bible: Learn about God: Know about God.
2. Pray: Confess: Give thanks: Ask: Seek: Knock at the door.
3. Meditate: Contemplate: Praise Him: Open up with God.
4. Absorb God's promises: Appreciate His ways: Be thankful.
5.  Desire God in relationship: Surrender: Let God lead you.

There is no one right way to pursue God to know Him. Individuals are individual, right? They will find God as they seek His favor. Asking God to reveal Himself is good place to start. Scripture can be studied. The Holy Spirit can be accessed to make this personal and revealing. An open heart and mind turned toward God is essential to the process. The spiritual journey becomes a blessed time of love, joy, and goodness. God becomes a faithful friend. He can be counted on. Knowing God and Him knowing you is the stuff of a beautiful relationship.

Dear God, thank you for being life to us. You are everything. Amen

To God be the Glory