Kinsman-Redeemer (Ruth 4:8-10)

Therefore the close relative said to Boaz, “Buy it for yourself.” So he took off his sandal. And Boaz said to the elders and all the people, “You are witnesses this day that I have bought all that was Elimelech’s, and all that was Chilion’s and Mahlon’s, from the hand of Naomi. Moreover, Ruth the Moabitess, the widow of Mahlon, I have acquired as my wife, to perpetuate the name of the dead through his inheritance, that the name of the dead may not be cut off from among his brethren and from his position at the gate. You are witnesses this day.”
(Ruth 4:8-10, NKJV)

God’s plan continues. The “close relative” gave up his rights to Elimelech’s legacy. And so Boaz redeemed Naomi’s land and was then able to take Ruth as his wife.

If you think about it, Boaz has really done a pretty amazing thing. By redeeming Elimelech’s legacy, he in some way jeopardized his own. I don’t know enough about ancient tradition to understand exactly how, but since the “close relative” didn’t buy Naomi’s land because he didn’t want to “ruin [his] inheritance” (see yesterday’s blog), one can only assume Boaz would face the same possibility.

But he did it anyway. He cared enough for Naomi and Ruth to take the risk.

And so, with an exchange of sandals (another rather odd tradition) and in the presence of witnesses, Boaz was now able to provide, protect, and care for Ruth and Naomi.

Isn’t this a beautiful story? And there’s still more to come!

God's Best Plan (Ruth 4:5-7)

Then Boaz said, “On the day you buy the field from the hand of Naomi, you must also buy it from Ruth the Moabitess, the wife of the dead, to perpetuate the name of the dead through his inheritance.” And the close relative said, “I cannot redeem it for myself, lest I ruin my own inheritance. You redeem my right of redemption for yourself, for I cannot redeem it.” Now this was the custom in former times in Israel concerning redeeming and exchanging, to confirm anything: one man took off his sandal and gave it to the other, and this was a confirmation in Israel.
(Ruth 4:5-7, NKJV)

Ancient customs do seem strange to us. For example, family lines could be continued through the wives of the deceased. So if this “close relative” chose to redeem Naomi’s land, he’d also have to marry and have a child with Ruth … and that child would inherit the land.

The close relative chose not to redeem the land because of that stipulation. Somehow taking on Elimelech’s inheritance would jeopardize his own. Perhaps it might interfere with children who already lived. We don’t know for sure, but he gave up his right to the inheritance to Boaz.

Again we see a little more of God’s plan. Ruth and Naomi probably would have been well taken care of by this close relative, but he wasn’t the right one for Ruth. He wasn’t the better choice for her.

And we can remember that He does the same for us. We may think one direction is better than another, and then God closes the door. Instead of fretting when our plans don’t come to fruition, we can rejoice. Because God’s way is always the best way. Always.

A Close Relative's Redemption (Ruth 4:1-4)

Now Boaz went up to the gate and sat down there; and behold, the close relative of whom Boaz had spoken came by. So Boaz said, “Come aside, friend, sit down here.” So he came aside and sat down. And he took ten men of the elders of the city, and said, “Sit down here.” So they sat down. Then he said to the close relative, “Naomi, who has come back from the country of Moab, sold the piece of land which belonged to our brother Elimelech. And I thought to inform you, saying, ‘Buy it back in the presence of the inhabitants and the elders of my people. If you will redeem it, redeem it; but if you will not redeem it, then tell me, that I may know; for there is no one but you to redeem it, and I am next after you.’”And he said, “I will redeem it.”
(Ruth 4:1-4, NKJV)

Sometimes ancient customs don’t make much sense to our modern minds. However, as my husband and I are currently going through the settlement of his mom’s estate, this idea of redeeming a relative’s property seems pretty straight-forward.

As next of kin, this “close relative” had the right to “redeem” Elimelech’s land and other property. He could buy the land and property, one would assume at a discount. And in the presence of ten elders of the city, the close relative agreed to redeem anything that belonged to Elimelech.

At first blush, it seems like Naomi and Ruth’s future was set. They’d receive monetary compensation that would likely give them funds to support themselves for the foreseeable future. Everything was working out well. Great plan.

Oh, but wait. As always, God’s plan was so much better! It’s getting exciting, folks!

Sit Still (Ruth 3:14-18)

So she lay at his feet until morning, and she arose before one could recognize another. Then he said, “Do not let it be known that the woman came to the threshing floor.” Also he said, “Bring the shawl that is on you and hold it.” And when she held it, he measured six ephahs of barley, and laid it on her. Then she went into the city. When she came to her mother-in-law, she said, “Is that you, my daughter?” Then she told her all that the man had done for her. And she said, “These six ephahs of barley he gave me; for he said to me, ‘Do not go empty-handed to your mother-in-law.’” Then she said, “Sit still, my daughter, until you know how the matter will turn out; for the man will not rest until he has concluded the matter this day.”
(Ruth 3:14-18, NKJV)

Patience. Something many of us struggle with.

It appears that perhaps sweet, loving Ruth may have struggled with it as well. After following Naomi’s strange instructions and spending the night at Boaz’s feet, she had to wait. She still didn’t know what her future held. Would Boaz, who had shown her such kindness, be her kinsman redeemer? Or would a stranger play a key role?

Naomi must have seen Ruth’s agitation. And she told her to relax. “Sit still,” she said. Be patient. Wait.

Not an easy thing to do, especially when your future is at stake. Are you waiting right now? For a child? For a job? For a spouse? For a move? Are you uncertain about what’s next on your life’s journey.

I’m right with you. Since taking part in a layoff from my job in February, I’ve enjoyed a time of both relaxation and productivity. It’s been great to get some important tasks done. But now I’m looking forward to the next leg of my own journey. And I have no idea where God is taking me.

So I wait. I “sit still.” This is where trust comes in. Trust that God is in loving control. Trust that His plan is best and will be fulfilled in His timing.

It’s times like these when we need to remember to just “Be still, and know that [He] is God.”

A Blessed Woman (Ruth 3:10-13)

Then he said, “Blessed are you of the LORD, my daughter! For you have shown more kindness at the end than at the beginning, in that you did not go after young men, whether poor or rich. And now, my daughter, do not fear. I will do for you all that you request, for all the people of my town know that you are a virtuous woman. Now it is true that I am a close relative; however, there is a relative closer than I. Stay this night, and in the morning it shall be that if he will perform the duty of a close relative for you—good; let him do it. But if he does not want to perform the duty for you, then I will perform the duty for you, as the LORD lives! Lie down until morning.”
(Ruth 3:10-13, NKJV)

Stop and think a moment. Poor Ruth left friends and family and home. She followed Naomi to a foreign land. She chose to follow what was, to her, a foreign God. She obeyed Naomi’s odd instructions. And now that she did what her mother-in-law asked, she had to wait again to see if Boaz would be her kinsman redeemer.

Boaz’s description of Ruth is spot-on. She was blessed. She was kind. She was virtuous. Even more, she was loving and compassionate, caring and trusting, faithful and loyal.

If someone were to describe me, would they use the same adjectives? What about you?

I have to ask myself: Do I exhibit kindness and compassion? Would my friends and family call me virtuous and faithful? I hope so … but it does make me want to truly radiate these attributes. Not so others will describe me well, but that my Lord God will shine through me. Just as He shone through Ruth.

Seeking a Redeemer (Ruth 3:6-9)

So she went down to the threshing floor and did according to all that her mother-in-law instructed her. And after Boaz had eaten and drunk, and his heart was cheerful, he went to lie down at the end of the heap of grain; and she came softly, uncovered his feet, and lay down. Now it happened at midnight that the man was startled, and turned himself; and there, a woman was lying at his feet. And he said, “Who are you?” So she answered, “I am Ruth, your maidservant. Take your maidservant under your wing, for you are a close relative.”
(Ruth 3:6-9, NKJV)

Back to Ruth …

Tradition in this time was for women to be cared for by relatives. First their fathers. Then their husbands. And, if necessary, their sons. Naomi had none of the above, and since Ruth chose to leave her homeland to be with Naomi, the younger woman didn’t have anyone to support her either. They were able to make due, but it wasn’t under the care of a kinsman.

When Ruth followed Naomi’s instructions to uncover Boaz’s feet and lay down, she was adopting the custom of claiming Boaz as a close relative, one who would take them in and provide for them. He would be, in fact, a "kinsman redeemer."

If you read commentaries on the book of Ruth, you’ll see a parallel drawn between Boaz as kinsman redeemer and our Lord Jesus Christ, the Redeemer of all mankind. We too can come to the feet of Jesus and seek redemption.

Just as Ruth sought Boaz as protector and provider, we can seek our Lord. Just as she came in confidence, so can we. The difference? She was uncertain of the reception she might receive. We are assured that our Redeemer is waiting for us to seek Him He’ll never turn us away.

A Morning Cry

I’m taking a quick break from Ruth today. I feel the need to meditate on different verses, and I sense I’m not the only one.

It’s another rough morning after some rough days. Seems I just don’t bounce back as quickly as I used to. I could easily fall into depression or a pity party. Day after day of pain does begin to take its toll—in more ways than one.

So this morning, I just need to cry out to my God. Are you feeling the same way? Then join me as I meditate on these three verses from Psalm 5:

Give ear to my words, O LORD,
Consider my meditation.

Oh, Lord, please listen to me. Please let me know you hear my voice.

Give heed to the voice of my cry,
My King and my God,

Hear my cry. Hear my pain. You and only You can help me through these valley days.

For to You I will pray.

I know you listen, Lord. I know You’re just a prayer away. I trust that You’re here right now and that You hear my prayer.

My voice You shall hear in the morning, O LORD;

This morning, I pray for an extra measure of grace, of strength, of peace. I know You really do hear my voice, this and every morning.

In the morning I will direct it to You,
And I will look up.

As I direct my prayer to You, as I cry out in my pain, I look up to the heavens. I raise my eyes to see You.

Thank You, Lord, for the assurance that You do listen to me. You do hear my prayers. And You’ll carry me through—as You always do.

Amen.

Strange Instructions (Ruth 3:1-5)

Then Naomi her mother-in-law said to her, “My daughter, shall I not seek security for you, that it may be well with you? Now Boaz, whose young women you were with, is he not our relative? In fact, he is winnowing barley tonight at the threshing floor. Therefore wash yourself and anoint yourself, put on your best garment and go down to the threshing floor; but do not make yourself known to the man until he has finished eating and drinking. Then it shall be, when he lies down, that you shall notice the place where he lies; and you shall go in, uncover his feet, and lie down; and he will tell you what you should do.” And she said to her, “All that you say to me I will do.”
(Ruth 3:1-5, NKJV)

Strange instructions from Naomi. They must not have made much sense to Ruth. “Get all clean and pretty in your best dress, and head out to the threshing floor. Keep quiet, but watch where Boaz lies down, and after he falls asleep, go and uncover his feet and then lie down. When he wakes, he’ll tell you what to do.”

Strange indeed.

Yet, Ruth, with trust and respect for her mother-in-law, didn’t argue. Didn’t question. Didn’t say, “Are you nuts?”

She quietly and humbly said, “All that you say to me I will do.”

Ruth had left her homeland and family to follow Naomi. She went out each day to collect the leftovers from the reapers. She worked hard to provide for Naomi. And now she was asked to do something quite odd—for a Moabitess, that is.

Didn’t I tell you Ruth was a fascinating book? More to come!

God's Plan (Ruth 2:18-20)

Ruth the Moabitess said, “He also said to me, ‘You shall stay close by my young men until they have finished all my harvest.’” And Naomi said to Ruth her daughter-in-law, “It is good, my daughter, that you go out with his young women, and that people do not meet you in any other field.” So she stayed close by the young women of Boaz, to glean until the end of barley harvest and wheat harvest; and she dwelt with her mother-in-law.
(Ruth 2:18-20, NKJV)

The hand of God hovers throughout the book of Ruth. It’s no coincidence that Ruth returned with Naomi. It’s not chance that Ruth ended up in Boaz’ fields.

God already had a plan to redeem both women. He planned protection. He planned provision.

And just as He had a plan for Ruth and Naomi, He has a plan for you and me. I just came back from speaking at a couple of events in the Santa Barbara area, and the topic “just happened” to be on God’s plans for our lives. My theme verse is Jeremiah 29:11, which assures us that God knows the plans He has for us. His plans are for peace, not evil, to bring us a future filled with hope.

Even when things look dark as they did for Naomi in Moab, we who trust in God and are part of His family can be confident He really will work out all things for good (Romans 8:28).

God is Faithful (Ruth 2:18-20)

Then she took it up and went into the city, and her mother-in-law saw what she had gleaned. So she brought out and gave to her what she had kept back after she had been satisfied. And her mother-in-law said to her, “Where have you gleaned today? And where did you work? Blessed be the one who took notice of you.” So she told her mother-in-law with whom she had worked, and said, “The man’s name with whom I worked today is Boaz.” Then Naomi said to her daughter-in-law, “Blessed be he of the LORD, who has not forsaken His kindness to the living and the dead!” And Naomi said to her, “This man is a relation of ours, one of our close relatives.”
(Ruth 2:18-20, NKJV)

Naomi finally recognized what she should have known all along. God is faithful. Through dark times of sorrow, He is faithful. Through joyful celebrations, He is faithful.

He does not and will not forsake His children. Never.

Naomi allowed circumstances to pull her from faith in Jehovah God. I totally understand because I did exactly the same thing. I allowed the pain of abuse to take me away from God for years and years. But, praise God, I too remembered His faithfulness to me. His provision. His protection. His kindness.

Have you allowed circumstances to distance you from God? Have you allowed others to take your focus off of God’s faithfulness? Believe me when I tell you God hasn’t forgotten you. He hasn’t left you without hope.

If you feel forsaken, run to your Father God, your Abba, your Daddy. Climb up onto His lap and allow His love and grace to flow over you.

He’s waiting.

Compassion for Those In Need (Ruth 2:15-17)

And when she rose up to glean, Boaz commanded his young men, saying, “Let her glean even among the sheaves, and do not reproach her. Also let grain from the bundles fall purposely for her; leave it that she may glean, and do not rebuke her.” So she gleaned in the field until evening, and beat out what she had gleaned, and it was about an ephah of barley.
(Ruth 2:15-17, NKJV)

We’ve focused mostly on Naomi and Ruth, but today, let’s take a closer look at Boaz. As we’ve learned, he was a wealthy landowner and a relative of Naomi’s late husband. Those are facts. But as we read of his care for Ruth, we learn even more.

Boaz was a man of compassion. Yes, he was kin to Naomi, but only through marriage. And if you think about it, Ruth wasn’t really much of a relative at all—only by a technicality. But he saw this young woman in his fields doing her best to provide food for herself and Naomi. He appreciated her commitment to Naomi, and so he chose to help her.

He told his workers to treat her with respect (“do not reproach her” and “do not rebuke her”) and to intentionally drop pieces of choice grain for her to glean. In this way, he was able to protect her from ill treatment and provide better quality food.

I’d like to be more like Boaz. I’d like to think if I saw a need, I’d immediately work to provide for it. But I’m not nearly as observant as he was.

Lord, help me to see people in need. Help me to do something, give something to help provide for their needs. Let me have the compassion of Boaz. Amen.

Humble and Grateful (Ruth 2:13-14)

Then she said, “Let me find favor in your sight, my lord; for you have comforted me, and have spoken kindly to your maidservant, though I am not like one of your maidservants.” Now Boaz said to her at mealtime, “Come here, and eat of the bread, and dip your piece of bread in the vinegar.” So she sat beside the reapers, and he passed parched grain to her; and she ate and was satisfied, and kept some back.
(Ruth 2:13-14, NKJV)

Ruth is such a great example of humility and gratitude. Because of her kind and gentle spirit, she received favor from a wealthy landowner. She didn’t demand or come with any expectations. She didn’t feel she was entitled to anything.

She just humbly did as Naomi instructed, and she humbly walked behind the reapers to glean what food she could for Naomi and herself. And her humility and dedication to Naomi was recognized. She was able to eat until satisfied and still keep some aside for Naomi.

Ruth’s words to Boaz also show her deep gratitude for his favor. His kindly-spoken words brought her comfort. She knew she wasn’t really supposed to glean Boaz’ fields, but he chose to bless her anyway.

How do we approach God? With humility, knowing we don’t deserve any grace or mercy? Or with a sense of entitlement that He owes us something?

And when we receive His grace, are we deep-in-the-heart grateful?

Something to think about …

The Shelter of His Wings (Ruth 2:11-12)

And Boaz answered and said to her, “It has been fully reported to me, all that you have done for your mother-in-law since the death of your husband, and how you have left your father and your mother and the land of your birth, and have come to a people whom you did not know before. The LORD repay your work, and a full reward be given you by the LORD God of Israel, under whose wings you have come for refuge.”
(Ruth 2:11-12, NKJV)

Yesterday, Ruth asked Boaz why she had “found favor” with him. The answer? Because she was faithful to Naomi. Because she was willing to give up everything to care for her mother-in-law.

Then Boaz said something that we should take to heart today. Read that last sentence again. And again. What do these words say to you? I read a couple of really wonderful promises I believe we can embrace.

First, the Lord God of Israel will one day “repay” our work here on earth. We will one day receive rewards for how we served and what we did for His kingdom.

Then, some really beautiful, really comforting, really wonderful words: “… under whose wings you have come for refuge.” We find a refuge under the wings of our Lord God. I’ve written before of two of my favorite verses, Psalm 46:1-2a where I’m assured that God is “our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble. Therefore, we shall not fear.”

Have you seen a mother bird gather her babies under her wing, offering them comfort and protection? That’s how our Father gathers us to Him.

Take shelter under His wings. No matter what’s happening. No matter your storm. No matter what you face. He’s there to cover you with His strength.

Who Am I? (Ruth 2:8-10)

Then Boaz said to Ruth, “You will listen, my daughter, will you not? Do not go to glean in another field, nor go from here, but stay close by my young women. Let your eyes be on the field which they reap, and go after them. Have I not commanded the young men not to touch you? And when you are thirsty, go to the vessels and drink from what the young men have drawn.” So she fell on her face, bowed down to the ground, and said to him, “Why have I found favor in your eyes, that you should take notice of me, since I am a foreigner?”
(Ruth 2:8-10, NKJV)

Boaz invited Ruth to glean in his fields and offered her protection by commanding the “young men not to touch” her. All because she was part of his extended family.

But I want to focus on Ruth’s words: “Why have I found favor in your eyes, that you should take notice of me …?”

Just as I love Ruth’s words to Naomi in verses 15-17 that speak so eloquently of devotion and faithfulness, I love these in verse 10. To me, these are the same words I often speak to the Lord. So often, I’m overwhelmed as I think of how richly God has blessed me. I live in freedom, to worship as I choose, to enjoy relative peace. I have a wonderfully-supportive husband who, after 22 years of marriage, is still my best friend. I reside in a lovely home. I enjoy an amazing ministry speaking to and encouraging women to grow in their faith.

And then I say in wonder, “Why have I found favor in Your eyes, that you should take notice of me?” Or I resonate with the psalmist in chapter 8, verse 4: “Why do you bother with us? Why take a second look our way?” (The Message)

Just as Ruth didn’t understand how Boaz would provide and protect her, I don’t understand the immense love and grace God showers on me.

But I’m oh-so-grateful He does!

The Lord Be With You (Ruth 2:4-7)

Now behold, Boaz came from Bethlehem, and said to the reapers, “The LORD be with you!” And they answered him, “The LORD bless you!” Then Boaz said to his servant who was in charge of the reapers, “Whose young woman is this?” So the servant who was in charge of the reapers answered and said, “It is the young Moabite woman who came back with Naomi from the country of Moab. And she said, ‘Please let me glean and gather after the reapers among the sheaves.’ So she came and has continued from morning until now, though she rested a little in the house.”
(Ruth 2:4-7, NKJV)

Boaz was clearly a godly man. The first words we hear from him are, “The LORD be with you!” I imagine this was a common greeting from Boaz.

What if our regular greeting to each other was “The Lord be with you!”? What if our first thought when we woke in the morning was about our Lord? What if our last waking breath each night was a prayer?

What if God really was first and foremost in our hearts and minds?

The Bible tells us we’re to meditate on God’s word “day and night” (Psalm 1:2). We’re to “pray without ceasing” (1 Thess. 5:17). We’re to “rejoice always” (Phil. 4:4).

Constancy. Consistency. Steadfastness. Single-mindedness.

Do these words describe your relationship with God? As much as I’d like to say they do mine, I still have too much of “me” in me, certainly not nearly enough of God. But since I’m that work in progress Paul described (Phil. 1:6), I know I can strive each day to keep more and more focused on God. I can strive to let Him increase while I decrease (John 3:30).

That’s my prayer. What about you?

Gleaning the Fields (Ruth 2:1-3)

There was a relative of Naomi’s husband, a man of great wealth, of the family of Elimelech. His name was Boaz. So Ruth the Moabitess said to Naomi, “Please let me go to the field, and glean heads of grain after him in whose sight I may find favor.”And she said to her, “Go, my daughter.” Then she left, and went and gleaned in the field after the reapers. And she happened to come to the part of the field belonging to Boaz, who was of the family of Elimelech.
(Ruth 2:1-3, NKJV)

A new character enters our story. Boaz is described as a relative of Naomi’s husband, a man of great wealth, and he plays a key role in Ruth and Naomi’s story.

Not having any idea of what the future would bring for her, Ruth decided to “glean heads of grain” in nearby fields. It was an accepted practice for the poor to follow the reapers and gather up what was left behind.

When I read these verses, it seems clear to me that Naomi and Ruth returned to Bethlehem to nothing. As I wrote in previous blogs, women in that time were dependent on relatives. Husbands, sons, nephews. That Ruth needed to glean the fields is a strong indication she and Naomi were destitute. Perhaps a friend gave them a corner of a room for shelter, but they had to get their own food.

And so Ruth went to the fields … and just “happened” on a field belonging to Boaz.

As Sherlock Holmes would say, “Something’s afoot.”

Stay tuned as the intrigue continues …

Bitter Against God (Ruth 1:19-22)

Now the two of them went until they came to Bethlehem. And it happened, when they had come to Bethlehem, that all the city was excited because of them; and the women said, “Is this Naomi?” But she said to them, “Do not call me Naomi; call me Mara, for the Almighty has dealt very bitterly with me. I went out full, and the LORD has brought me home again empty. Why do you call me Naomi, since the LORD has testified against me, and the Almighty has afflicted me?” So Naomi returned, and Ruth the Moabitess her daughter-in-law with her, who returned from the country of Moab. Now they came to Bethlehem at the beginning of barley harvest.
(Ruth 1:19-22, NKJV)

It’s okay to be upset with God. Does that shock you?

A lot of people seem to think it’s somehow wrong to tell God everything on their hearts—even when that “everything” includes anger or fear or frustration.

Have you read Job lately? Or the Psalms? Or what about Moses? Or Abraham—the father of the nation of Israel lied about his wife twice because of fear. Many, many times, people cried out to God in their fear, their pain, their confusion … and yes, their anger. Naomi joined other devoted followers of God in when she complained about God’s “affliction” as she told the women in her hometown that she wanted to be called “Mara.”

Bitter.

Have you felt bitter about what’s happening to your life? Have you felt that God has afflicted you? Have you felt empty?

It’s okay to cry out to Him. It’s okay to tell Him you’re upset or angry or confused. He knows your heart anyway. Just make sure you do as Naomi did: Even in her pain, she never denied her God.

Who's Your Burden-Sharer (Ruth 1:14-18)

Then they lifted up their voices and wept again; and Orpah kissed her mother-in-law, but Ruth clung to her. And she said, “Look, your sister-in-law has gone back to her people and to her gods; return after your sister-in-law.” But Ruth said:

“ Entreat me not to leave you,
Or to turn back from following after you;
For wherever you go, I will go;
And wherever you lodge, I will lodge;
Your people shall be my people,
And your God, my God.
Where you die, I will die,
And there will I be buried.
The LORD do so to me, and more also,
If anything but death parts you and me.”

When she saw that she was determined to go with her, she stopped speaking to her.
(Ruth 1:14-18, NKJV)

These verses contain some of the most beautiful words in the Bible—and that says a lot!

Naomi insisted her daughters-in-law return to their families. Orpah sadly did so, but Ruth refused, with those beautiful, overwhelmingly-loving words. The Message’s paraphrase:

"Don't force me to leave you; don't make me go home. Where you go, I go; and where you live, I'll live. Your people are my people, your God is my god; where you die, I'll die, and that's where I'll be buried, so help me GOD—not even death itself is going to come between us!"

Can you imagine how Naomi’s heartache was soothed by Ruth’s words? Her dearly-loved daughter-in-law—really her daughter by now—wouldn’t leave her. Naomi would return to her homeland with someone by her side. Although she still grieved her losses, she wouldn’t be alone.

Whom do you have to stay by your side when you grieve? Who will be with you when you face loss? I pray you have a friend or family member no further than a phone call, one who will be your burden-sharer.

When God's Hand Seems Distant (Ruth 1:11b-13)

“Are there still sons in my womb, that they may be your husbands? Turn back, my daughters, go—for I am too old to have a husband. If I should say I have hope, if I should have a husband tonight and should also bear sons, would you wait for them till they were grown? Would you restrain yourselves from having husbands? No, my daughters; for it grieves me very much for your sakes that the hand of the LORD has gone out against me!”
(Ruth 1:11b-13, NKJV)

Naomi’s grief continued. She lost everything important to her. She knew she was destined to be alone. No husband. No children. No grandchildren.

And she—for a while at least—lost her faith. “… the hand of the Lord has gone out against me!” she cried.

Have you ever felt that way? That the hand of the Lord has gone out against you? That you’ve lost everything that had any meaning?

My heart aches for those of you who’ve lost spouses, parents, children. Or maybe you’ve lost your home or have had to travel far to find work. Or maybe you’ve lost your health.

Sometimes we too wonder whether God is really with us when we face overwhelming pain or loss. I know I wondered where God was when I experienced sexual abuse as a child and young teen. When Russ and I first began trying to have children—and month after month went by—I cried out to God, asking “Why?”

And yes, even now on those days when the pain is unrelenting, I sometimes don’t feel God’s presence. But even when I don’t feel Him, I know He’s there, right beside me. I also know that nothing will happen to me—to any of His children—without His arms ready to embrace me.

I spoke this weekend about how rainbows only come after the storm, but we have to go through the storm to see them. Naomi went through her own devastating storm and didn’t know a rainbow was just around the corner.

If you’re in a storm right now, I pray you’ll cling to your Father’s hand. And know the rainbow is coming.

Mother and Daughter Love (Ruth 1:9b-11b)

So she kissed them, and they lifted up their voices and wept. And they said to her, “Surely we will return with you to your people.” But Naomi said, “Turn back, my daughters; why will you go with me? …”
(Ruth 1:9b-11a, NKJV)

Today’s verses are so poignant. They’re why I think these three women loved each other deeply. After Naomi sadly instructed her daughters-in-law to return to their people, they both wept and stated they’d rather go with Naomi.

Then I love how Naomi calls them “daughters.” Not “in-laws,” but daughters. This reminds me so much of my own Ruth. She used to call me her “daughter-in-love.” Having had only sons, she saw me as her daughter, not merely the wife of her son.

On this day that’s been set aside to honor mothers, I’d like to wish a Happy Mother’s Day to each and every mother, mother-in-law, grandmother, aunt, and mentor—really anyone who’s had a child or has been an influence in a child’s life. May you enjoy all the younger people around you. May you be uniquely blessed this day. May you know great love, especially from your Father.

More Loss ... (Ruth 1:6-9a)

Then she arose with her daughters-in-law that she might return from the country of Moab, for she had heard in the country of Moab that the LORD had visited His people by giving them bread. Therefore she went out from the place where she was, and her two daughters-in-law with her; and they went on the way to return to the land of Judah. And Naomi said to her two daughters-in-law, “Go, return each to her mother’s house. The LORD deal kindly with you, as you have dealt with the dead and with me. The LORD grant that you may find rest, each in the house of her husband.”
(Ruth 1:6-9a, NKJV)

Naomi, still grieving the loss of her sons, decided to return to her homeland. We can’t know exactly what she was feeling, but I think it’s safe to say she wanted to get as far away from the place that had caused her such sorrow. At least at home, she’d be with friends and family … or would she?

It just struck me that it had been well over ten years since she’d left the land of Judah. Years with no contact whatsoever. No mail. No phone. No telegram. Just as she’d followed her husband to the unknown land of Moab, she’d be heading back to a familiar land, yes, but to a completely unknown situation. Who would be there to care for her? What family member or friend might take her in?

I’d never thought about the kind of strength and courage Naomi must have had.

And as she prepared to leave Moab, she faced another loss. Her daughters-in-law of ten years. Again, we don’t know exactly how she felt about them, but I believe there was tremendous love between the three women. Naomi knew, however, the younger women’s best chance to live well would be to remarry, and who better than to men from their own culture?

So she blessed them, “The LORD deal kindly with you, as you have dealt with the dead and with me. The LORD grant that you may find rest, each in the house of her husband.”

Then she packed her bags.

A Total Loss (Ruth 1:3-5)

Then Elimelech, Naomi’s husband, died; and she was left, and her two sons. Now they took wives of the women of Moab: the name of the one was Orpah, and the name of the other Ruth. And they dwelt there about ten years. Then both Mahlon and Chilion also died; so the woman survived her two sons and her husband.
(Ruth 1:3-5, NKJV)

If you’re like me, you’ve read at least part of the book of Ruth several times. Yet, it never ceases to touch my heart when I read of all Naomi suffered.

She’d left her home and extended family to go to a foreign land, and sometime thereafter, her husband died. How hard would that have been? Losing your spouse so far from your homeland. Knowing, if you were fortunate enough to return home, you’d do so without your husband?

Then things picked up again. Her sons married Moabite women, and based on what we’ll read in the next few days, Naomi seemed to have good relationships with them. For ten years, her life was likely relatively carefree.

Although an interesting fact just struck me: Her sons were married for ten years, yet apparently there were no grandchildren. We can only assume God had “closed the wombs” of her daughters-in-law, just as He had Sarai, Hannah, and Rachel in previous generations.

Naomi would have grieved over this just as she’d grieved over the loss of her husband.

And then the unthinkable … both of her sons die. In those days, women were dependent upon the men in their lives. First their fathers. Then their husbands. And if their husbands died, they’d live with and be supported by their sons.

Suddenly, Naomi had no one. And she lived far from any extended family that might have taken her in.

Imagine. Imagine how devastated she must have been, how alone, how frightened.

Have you ever been in a place where you seemed to lose everything? Are you in that place now? Stick with me, my friends. As we continued through the book of Ruth, we’ll see how God can and will work in what appear to be the direst, darkest moments.

Always.

A New Journey Begins (Ruth 1:1-2)

Now it came to pass, in the days when the judges ruled, that there was a famine in the land. And a certain man of Bethlehem, Judah, went to dwell in the country of Moab, he and his wife and his two sons. The name of the man was Elimelech, the name of his wife was Naomi, and the names of his two sons were Mahlon and Chilion—Ephrathites of Bethlehem, Judah. And they went to the country of Moab and remained there.
(Ruth 1:1-2, NKJV)

A year ago, my husband and I were loving his mom during her final weeks on earth. The cancer she’d fought five years previously had come back, and this time she was losing this earthly battle.

She’s been on my mind a lot lately. Not only are we nearing the first anniversary of her death, we’ve been spending a lot of time getting her home of 50 years ready to sell. We’ve uncovered countless treasures, and I’ve wished more than once we’d had more time to ask her questions. But I’m confident she’s with her Lord now—pain and sorrow free.

As I was praying about the next chapter or book I wanted to focus on, it seemed fitting that I spend some time in one of my favorite books, one that speaks of loyalty, love, faith, and redemption. And just so happens shares my mother-in-law’s name—Ruth.

I dedicate the next several blogs to my Ruth.

Today, we begin our journey through this short but powerful book. We meet one of the leading characters, Naomi. Her story starts as many did in her time. To avoid the famine, she and her husband took their two sons to Moab. Nothing terribly exciting in these first two verses.

Oh, but wait, my friends. We have so much to learn. Travel with me.

Search Me and Know My Heart (Ps. 139-23-24)

Search me, O God, and know my heart;
Try me and know my anxious thoughts;
And see if there be any hurtful way in me,
And lead me in the everlasting way.
(Psalm 139:23-24, NASB)

I’ve read these verses countless times. I’ve memorized them. I’ve quoted them. And yet I forget how profound these two short verses are.

Search me, O God, and know my heart …

I want to be intimately connected to my Abba Father. I want Him to be the focus of my thoughts, of my heart. I want every part of me to be open to Him.

Try me and know my anxious thoughts …

He knows the trials I face. He knows my struggles. He uses those to refine and mold me. But He also knows I can be anxious and worried at times—I’m only human, after all.

And see if there be any hurtful way in me …

God knows the deepest parts of my heart, those areas I hide from the world. He knows my weaknesses. I want to be free from any thought or action that would hurt others—or myself.

And lead me in the everlasting way.

As a daughter of the King, as a follower of Christ, I know—beyond doubt—where I’ll spend eternity. I’m going to be with my God—Father, Son, and Spirit—forever.

Amen and amen.

Loving Our Enemies (Ps. 139:19-22)

O that You would slay the wicked, O God;
Depart from me, therefore, men of bloodshed.
For they speak against You wickedly,
And Your enemies take Your name in vain.
Do I not hate those who hate You, O LORD?
And do I not loathe those who rise up against You?
I hate them with the utmost hatred;
They have become my enemies.
(Psalm 139:19-22, NASB)

Solomon wrote, “… there is nothing new under the sun” (Ecc. 1:9). Isn’t that the truth? Centuries ago, David wrote about those who spoke against God and took His name in vain. God’s enemies rose up against Him, and David considered God’s enemies his own.

And what’s happening today? A new generation of atheists is inviting people to actually denounce God—Father, Son, and Spirit—on an on-line forum. It seems that the only acceptable swear words are “Jesus Christ” or “Oh my God.” You don’t hear anyone saying “Buddha” or “Oh my Mohammed.” It’s only the name of the one true God that’s taken in vain.

One thing has changed, however, since David wrote this psalm. God Himself came to earth in human form, and Jesus spoke of loving our enemies and loving others as ourselves. David hated his enemies and wanted to see them destroyed. We, one the other hand, should love them.

And we must stand firm in our own faith, continually filling our minds with God’s word. We must ask God to fill our hearts with love for those who speak against Him. We must let our hearts be broken when we think of how the enemy has brainwashed so many. And we must do all we can do to help them see truth.

God's Higher Thoughts (Ps. 139:17-18)

How precious also are Your thoughts to me, O God!
How vast is the sum of them!
If I should count them, they would outnumber the sand
When I awake, I am still with You.
(Psalm 139:17-18, NASB)

God spoke through the prophet Isaiah, reminding him—and us—that He is God. All-knowing. All-powerful. All-loving.

"For My thoughts are not your thoughts,
Nor are your ways My ways," declares the LORD.
"For as the heavens are higher than the earth,
So are My ways higher than your ways
And My thoughts than your thoughts.”
(55:7-8)

Honestly? I find this very comforting. I wouldn’t want to serve a God whom I could fully understand. I love the mystery of a God who is so great and so vast. He is the Creator; I am the created. As it should be.

The really great thing? He is so much greater and higher than I, but He still reveals so much of Himself. Through His word. Through His creation.

I may not know everything. I may not understand everything. But I do know this: My God loves me more than I can truly comprehend. And He holds my life in His gracious and merciful hands. I can have confidence in His plan for me.

So can you.

Awesome and Wonderful You! (Ps. 139:13-16)

For You formed my inward parts;
You wove me in my mother's womb.
I will give thanks to You, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made;
Wonderful are Your works,
And my soul knows it very well.
My frame was not hidden from You,
When I was made in secret,
And skillfully wrought in the depths of the earth;
Your eyes have seen my unformed substance;
And in Your book were all written
The days that were ordained for me,
When as yet there was not one of them.
(Psalm 139:13-16, NASB)

Fearfully and wonderfully made. I often joke when I speak that many of us would agree with “fearfully.” I’m downright scary! you say. But that’s not what “fearfully” means. It means “awesomely.”

Awesomely. Wonderfully.

You are awesomely and wonderfully made. If you have a relationship with Jesus, you are God’s beloved daughter or son. God looks at you and sees such beauty. Have you stopped to think about that?

So often, all we see are the scars, the flaws, the wrinkles. We see the many mistakes. The times we strayed.

But God doesn’t see all of that. Those of us who are cleansed by Jesus Christ’s sacrificial blood are as white as snow in the eyes of our Abba Father (see Psalm 51). He sees purity where we see sin. He sees beauty where we see ugliness. He sees awesome where we see a big ol’ mess.

Try and see yourself the way your Lord God does. Look through His eyes. Know that you’re awesome and wonderful. And you are.

God Through the Darkness (Ps. 139:11-12)

If I say, "Surely the darkness will overwhelm me,
And the light around me will be night,"
Even the darkness is not dark to You,
And the night is as bright as the day
Darkness and light are alike to You.
(Psalm 139:11-12, NASB)

Today’s verses are especially appropriate for me today. I feel overwhelmed by darkness. I’ve mentioned in other blogs that I deal with several chronic health issues, and this morning (it’s 3:30 a.m., by the way) I’m feeling the effects of each and every one of them … It’s literally and figuratively dark.

It would be really, really easy to wallow in self-pity. I have so much to do, so many things on my plate. But today? Not much is going to get done.

When I woke up a half hour ago and knew today was going to be a “pull the covers and hibernate” day, my immediate thought was—let’s be frank here—why? I don’t have time. Places to go. People to see. Definitely not a good day to do what I must do—give my body time to heal.

Then I read verse 11 and yes, I felt the darkness. Oh, but then I read verse 12. There is no darkness in my Lord God. As the apostle John wrote, “…God is Light, and in Him there is no darkness at all” (1 John 1:5). It may seem very dark, but I’m not alone. I can bask in the light of my Lord and know He has a purpose, even today.

Are you feeling overwhelmed by darkness? If so, I pray for God’s light to shine over and through you. I pray you’ll feel the warmth of His brightness cut through whatever darkness you’re experiencing.

And if you feel in the depths of night, remember: Day is coming.

You're Never Alone (Ps. 139:7-10)

Where can I go from Your Spirit?
Or where can I flee from Your presence?
If I ascend to heaven, You are there;
If I make my bed in Sheol, behold, You are there.
If I take the wings of the dawn,
If I dwell in the remotest part of the sea,
Even there Your hand will lead me,
And Your right hand will lay hold of me.
(Psalm 139:7-10, NASB)

A couple of days ago, I asked if the thought of God’s being with you all the time was comforting or scary. And when you’re in close relationship with God, it should be comforting. Then yesterday, I wrote of the wonder of knowing God surrounds us and lays His hand on us.

With comfort and wonder in our minds, today’s verses should bring joy. There is nowhere we can go without God’s being with us. Nowhere. He’s with us no matter what, no matter where. He’s with us in the battle against the enemy. He’s with us through the pain, through the joy, through the struggles, through the celebration.

And then there’s verse 10. No matter where we are, God will lead us. No matter what we’re experiencing, His hand lays hold of us.

I pray you’re filled with confidence when you read these words. I pray you’re filled with peace when you remember your loving Father is always with you, leading you, wrapping His arms of strength and protection around you.

You’re never alone. Never.

God Surrounds Me (Ps. 139:5-6)

You have enclosed me behind and before,
And laid Your hand upon me.
Such knowledge is too wonderful for me;
It is too high, I cannot attain to it.
(Psalm 139:5-6, NASB)

My heart overflows with gratitude when I read these words.

God encloses me. He surrounds me.

He envelops me with His love. He showers me with His grace. He embraces me with His grace and mercy. He wraps His strength around me.

I feel quite weary and aching this morning. The last few weeks have been unusually busy and hectic, and today’s the first day in a while when I can just rest. I can give my body a day to refresh and heal.

On days like today, it’s such a comfort to know God’s hand is on me. I know I can crawl onto my Abba’s lap, and He’ll surround me.

Do you need a loving hand to guide you? Do you need to feel Someone’s love today? Reach out your hand … His is already reaching out to you.

God's Intimate Presence (Ps. 139:1-4)

O LORD, You have searched me and known me.
You know when I sit down and when I rise up;
You understand my thought from afar.
You scrutinize my path and my lying down,
And are intimately acquainted with all my ways.
Even before there is a word on my tongue,
Behold, O LORD, You know it all.
(Psalm 139:1-4, NASB)

God is with us. At all times. In all circumstances. Always.

How does that make you feel? For some, it’s a tremendous comfort. We’re never alone on our journeys. God is with us to guide us, to protect us, to provide for us, to strengthen us. No matter the curveballs life throws our way, our Lord God walks alongside us.

Always.

For some, however, these verses bring fear or trepidation. God knows me that intimately? they ask. He knows my inner thoughts? He knows my words before I say them? I do nothing in secret? Yes, yes, yes, and no.

When I yell at another driver on the road, it’s not just me in the car. When you access that certain website, it’s not just you at the computer. When she thinks about her boss with true hate, her thoughts aren’t just her own.

Scary? Or comforting?

If your relationship with God is constant and intimate, you may feel remorse or regret when you act or think in a way that doesn’t honor Him, but you quickly repent and immediately regain the intimacy. You love that He’s with you at all times.

However, if you’re distant from God and you’re doing things or thinking things you know displease Him, you would rather He not know every little detail of your life. You want to keep some things in hiding. But you can’t. Not at all.

Where are you today? If it warms your heart to know God is intimately involved in your life, thank Him. Rejoice. For the others of you? Confess your sins. Seek His will. Be grateful that He’s with you to protect, provide, comfort, strengthen, and, yes, convict you.

Exhoration and Encouragement (Philemon vv. 20-22)

Yes, brother, let me have joy from you in the Lord; refresh my heart in the Lord. Having confidence in your obedience, I write to you, knowing that you will do even more than I say. But, meanwhile, also prepare a guest room for me, for I trust that through your prayers I shall be granted to you.
(Philemon vv.20-22, NKJV)

Paul ends this short letter with such encouragement for Philemon. He found joy and refreshment in just having Philemon as his brother in Christ. He had confidence that Philemon would follow his exhortations because he knew the latter desired to serve God.

And finally, he planned a face-to-face visit.

We’ve been studying the book of Acts at church for a while now, and our pastor often pulls shows a map when he talks about Paul’s journeys. We forget how arduous travel was for Paul and other early missionaries. It wasn’t just getting in a car and driving several hundred miles in just a few hours. Or on a plane and traveling several thousands of miles in the in the same few hours.

Paul probably mostly traveled by foot. It would take days to journey just tens of miles. Yet he made the effort to get to his spiritual children. What encouragement.

And especially for Philemon. This letter wasn’t necessarily an easy read, yet he was left with the affirmation he’d been a blessing for Paul. And he’d have the added blessing of seeing Paul again.

As Philemon was both exhorted and affirmed, so am I. I pray I see every brother and sister equally, no matter their background, race, socio-economic status. I pray I’m a blessing and joy to others as Jesus shines through me.

It is, after all, the second greatest commandment according to our Lord Jesus: Love your neighbor as yourself (Matt. 22:39; Mark 12:31; Luke 10:27).

Paying Others' Debts (Philemon vv.17-19)

If then you count me as a partner, receive him as you would me. But if he has wronged you or owes anything, put that on my account. I, Paul, am writing with my own hand. I will repay—not to mention to you that you owe me even your own self besides.
(Philemon vv.17-19, NKJV)

Often Paul wrote explicit commands to his readers. But at other times, he led by example. In today’s verses, the latter is true.

Throughout our journey through this short book, we read of Paul’s exhortation to Philemon to receive Onesimus as a true brother. And to make certain both men’s needs were met, Paul offered to cover any loss Philemon might have experienced. He would pay Onesimus’ debts.

Would we be willing to do the same? If we’re blessed to share the gospel and lead others to the foot of the cross, would we be willing to go even farther and pay their debts? To make certain they had no barriers to completely serve God?

I wonder.

Brothers and Sisters (Philemon vv. 14-15)

But without your consent I wanted to do nothing, that your good deed might not be by compulsion, as it were, but voluntary. For perhaps he departed for a while for this purpose, that you might receive him forever, no longer as a slave but more than a slave—a beloved brother, especially to me but how much more to you, both in the flesh and in the Lord.
(Philemon vv. 14-15, NKJV)

Yesterday, we learned how Paul exhorted Philemon to receive Onesimus as Paul’s own son, as Philemon’s own brother. Today’s verses make it even clearer. Philemon was to receive him forever as a beloved brother.

We are all equal in God’s eyes. Each and every one of us. It doesn’t matter where we come from, what our family tree looks like, how much money we have. It doesn’t matter what language we speak, if we went to college, where we work. When we submit our lives to Jesus Christ, accept the gift of salvation through His death and resurrection, and strive to live Christ-like lives, God looks at us with delight and love. We are His dearly-loved sons and daughters.

Do you know that? Do you really believe it? As I wrote in a previous blog, two of my life verses are Philippians 3:13b-14. We can forget about our past, what we’ve done, what we have—or don’t have—and look forward to a future with God’s loving hand leading us.

Because we’re His sons and daughters. And so, we’re also brothers and sisters. Let’s receive each other with love, just as Paul exhorted Philemon.

A Brother in Love (Philemon vv. 8-13)

Therefore, though I might be very bold in Christ to command you what is fitting, yet for love’s sake I rather appeal to you—being such a one as Paul, the aged, and now also a prisoner of Jesus Christ—I appeal to you for my son Onesimus, whom I have begotten while in my chains, who once was unprofitable to you, but now is profitable to you and to me. I am sending him back. You therefore receive him, that is, my own heart, whom I wished to keep with me, that on your behalf he might minister to me in my chains for the gospel.
(Philemon vv. 8-13, NKJV)

This tiny 22 verse book tells a fascinating story. Onesimus was a slave of Philemon’s, yet somehow, he ended up serving Paul. He became a son to Paul. In today’s verses, Paul wrote he was sending Onesimus back to Philemon, with a very pointed request—a command really. Philemon must receive Onesimus with love, with gratitude for his service to Paul.

We in the U.S. have a specific impression of slavery because of a devastating history. Things were different during the time of Paul. Slaves were more like indentured servants and not viewed as property. However, they were still servants—certainly not family.

I imagine Paul was thinking about words he’d written to the church at Galatia: “There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither slave nor free man, there is neither male nor female; for you are all one in Christ Jesus.” (3:28)

Receive our brother, Paul was writing. Our brother in our Lord Jesus Christ.

Share Your Story (Philemon vv. 4-7)

I thank my God, making mention of you always in my prayers, hearing of your love and faith which you have toward the Lord Jesus and toward all the saints, that the sharing of your faith may become effective by the acknowledgment of every good thing which is in you in Christ Jesus. For we have great joy and consolation in your love, because the hearts of the saints have been refreshed by you, brother.
(Philemon vv. 4-7, NKJV)

I love to talk about ways we can keep our faith fresh. Meditating on God’s word. Singing songs of worship. Keeping a journal.

And one of my favorites is hearing how the Lord is working through other believers. When I hear of a miraculous healing, my faith is strengthened. When I hear of changed lives in China or Greece, my faith grows. When I hear of young Christians who feel called to the mission field—here or abroad—my faith is refreshed.

Do you share stories of God’s work in your life with others? Do you let them know how He’s carried you through valleys and met you on the mountaintop? Do you let your children see how faithful God is in your life?

As I’ve written a couple of times, we are a family. And as a family, we need to encourage and affirm each other, and one of the ways we can do both is story-telling.

To whom have you told your story lately?

Beloved (Philemon vv. 1-3)

Paul, a prisoner of Christ Jesus, and Timothy our brother, To Philemon our beloved friend and fellow laborer, to the beloved Apphia, Archippus our fellow soldier, and to the church in your house: Grace to you and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.
(Philemon vv. 1-3, NKJV)

I wrote a few days ago about what a blessing it is to be part of the family of God. We have an immediate affinity with our brothers and sisters, and we share a sincere love for one another.

I love how Paul opens his letters, but I especially love his greeting at the beginning of the tiny book of Philemon. He mentions three special brothers by name and then greets a specific house church.

The clear and evident love Paul displays should be an example to all of us. Do we greet one another with love? Do we pray for God’s grace and peace to flow over our brothers and sisters? Do we pray for them at all?

I encourage all of us—myself included—to regularly pray for each other. Let’s greet each other with the genuine love Paul had for his brothers and sisters.

And so, my beloved, I echo Paul’s words that God’s grace and peace will abundantly cover you this day.

Be Still (Ps. 46:10-11)

"Cease striving and know that I am God;
I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth."
The LORD of hosts is with us;
The God of Jacob is our stronghold. Selah.
(Psalm 46:10-11, NASB)

The psalmist nicely wraps up with today’s verses, but he starts with a very important command: “Cease striving and know that I am God.” Other translations say, “Be still …” Or as the Contemporary English Version says, “Calm down, and learn that I am God!”

I just spent an amazing weekend with some wonderful women. I spoke on God’s plans for our lives, and spent some time on how we hear God’s voice. I used verse 10 of this psalm as an important guideline. We must be still. We must cease striving to do things on our own. That’s how we begin to hear the voice of our Lord.

Being still is hard for some of us, myself included. But I can tell you from experience, when I sit silently before God’s throne and pray for all distractions to leave my heart and mind, it’s then when I feel God’s presence most intimately. It’s then when I hear His voice speaking softly to my heart.

It’s hard to cease striving or be still or calm down in our crazy, hectic world. But may I encourage you? Take a moment today to just be still in the presence of your Father. It’ll change your life. I guarantee it!

Wars Will Cease (Ps. 46:8-9)

Come, behold the works of the LORD,
Who has wrought desolations in the earth.
He makes wars to cease to the end of the earth;
He breaks the bow and cuts the spear in two;
He burns the chariots with fire.
(Psalm 46:8-9, NASB)

In the beginning, God created the heavens and the earth … God is all powerful, and everything we enjoy on this earth is from His hand. We can behold His works. We can wonder at the beauty of His creation. That’s what the psalmist tells us in the first part of today’s passage.

But then he writes of God’s making “wars to cease.” Wars to cease? That certainly doesn’t sound like something He’s doing today, does it? Wars and rumors of war (Matthew 24:6; Mark 13:7) abound in our world. Nothing seems to be close to ceasing.

I believe these are prophetic words. One day (in the not too distant future, I pray!) wars will cease. Joy will abound. Peace will reign.

One day, when God builds His new heaven and new earth (Revelation 21:1), there will be no more war. There will be no more need for bows and spears and chariots.

One day. And I pray, Lord Jesus, come quickly.

God, Our Stronghold (Ps. 46:6-7)

The nations made an uproar, the kingdoms tottered;
He raised His voice, the earth melted.
The LORD of hosts is with us;
The God of Jacob is our stronghold. Selah.
(Psalm 46:6-7, NASB)

This Psalm just keeps getting better. Yesterday, we learned God is in the midst of our lives. He will help us.

Today, we’re reminded again that the “Lord of hosts is with us.” But even more, He’s our stronghold. A synonym for stronghold is “vice-like grip.”

We can hold onto God with a grip nothing can shake. And as the apostle Paul wrote, nothing, absolutely nothing can separate us from God’s love (see Romans 8:38-39).

He is our stronghold, in our vice-like grip. What a wonderful blessing we have to know God is with us. The Sovereign Creator and Lord of all is with us.

And nothing can pull Him from us. Nothing.

Amen and amen.

God in Our Midst (Ps. 46:4-5)

There is a river whose streams make glad the city of God,
The holy dwelling places of the Most High.
God is in the midst of her, she will not be moved;
God will help her when morning dawns.
(Psalm 46:4-5, NASB)

Someday, I’m going to take a class on the Old Testament. There’s so much in it that I think I understand, but I’m probably wrong. Take today’s verses. I think they’re prophetic, talking about the new heaven and new earth John describes in Revelation. But even if that’s true, there’s a nugget we can take away now, I believe.

If God is “in the midst” of things, we too “will not be moved.” God will help us when morning dawns. I absolutely love the fact of God’s omnipresence. He’s with me at all times. He’s here to protect me, provide for me, strengthen me. He’s “in the midst” of my life, always.

Mornings like this one, God is with me. I’m speaking at a retreat this weekend, and last night’s opening session was wonderful. This is a great group of ladies, and I’m excited about getting to know some of them better.

But it’s 3:30 a.m., and I awoke in more-than-usual pain. It would be easy to fret about this: How will I handle today’s two sessions? Well, here’s the deal: I won’t. God has carried me through times like this in the past, and “when morning dawns,” I have confidence He’ll help me again.

Thank You, Abba Father, that You’re in the midst of our lives. Be glorified this day. Amen.

God, Our Refuge and Strength (Ps. 46:1-3)

God is our refuge and strength,
A very present help in trouble.
Therefore we will not fear, though the earth should change
And though the mountains slip into the heart of the sea;
Though its waters roar and foam,
Though the mountains quake at its swelling pride. Selah.
(Psalm 46:1-3, NASB)

For the next few days, we’re going to spend some time in one of my favorite psalms. And it starts with verses I’ve committed to memory, that have brought me comfort many, many times:

God is our refuge and strength,
A very present help in trouble.
Therefore we will not fear …

I love these words. So many times I need a refuge, and God is there. So many mornings, I wake up weak and aching, and God is my strength. Every moment of every day, He is my present help. My present help.

So I never have to fear. Through earthquakes and floods, I don’t have to fear.

I don’t know about you, but these words bring me such peace, such hope. On days like today when I have a full schedule preparing to speak at a weekend retreat, yet I feel less than well, I know God will be my refuge and strength. He’ll be my shelter, my help.

And so I can move forward with confidence, without fear. So can you.

Our Family (Phil. 4:21-22)

Greet every saint in Christ Jesus. The brethren who are with me greet you. All the saints greet you, but especially those who are of Caesar’s household. The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you all. Amen.
(Philippians 4:21-22, NKJV)

We enjoy so many blessings as children of Jehovah God. He’s our refuge (Ps. 46:1-2). He provides for our needs (see yesterday’s blog). He’s our Shepherd, who walks beside us in the valleys (Ps. 23). God the Son, Jesus Christ, is our Savior. We are redeemed and justified through His death and resurrection.

So many blessings.

There’s another wonderful blessing that I particularly love. We are part of a family. Haven’t you been on vacation or traveling for business, and you sit next to a stranger. As you chat, you find out she knows our Lord. Suddenly, you’re no longer strangers. Or you move across town—or across the country—and you find a new church home. Immediately, you’re part of a family.

I love it!

And so today, I leave you, my family, with Paul’s benediction: The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you all. Amen.

Supplying Our Needs (Phil. 4:17-20)

Not that I seek the gift, but I seek the fruit that abounds to your account. Indeed I have all and abound. I am full, having received from Epaphroditus the things sent from you, a sweet-smelling aroma, an acceptable sacrifice, well pleasing to God. And my God shall supply all your need according to His riches in glory by Christ Jesus. Now to our God and Father be glory forever and ever. Amen.
(Philippians 4:17-20, NKJV)

When you stop to think about it, we have very few needs. We need water and food to sustain our bodies. We need shelter to protect us from the elements. We need relationships. And in our society, we need some method of financial trade.

That’s about it.

We don’t need big, fancy houses. We don’t need the latest car or gadget. We don’t need trendy clothes. We don’t need jewels or filet mignon.

And God promises to supply all our needs, not our wants. The amazing thing? Sometimes He also provides our wants as well. It’s okay to pray for our wants. When my husband and I wanted to buy a larger home, I prayed about it. I wanted God’s will in that purchase, and He worked it out beautifully.

Our God, like a loving father, desires good things for His children, and He will care for us. He will supply our needs. And sometimes our wants, as well.

The Church Family (Phil. 4:14-16)

Nevertheless you have done well that you shared in my distress. Now you Philippians know also that in the beginning of the gospel, when I departed from Macedonia, no church shared with me concerning giving and receiving but you only. For even in Thessalonica you sent aid once and again for my necessities.
(Philippians 4:14-16, NKJV)

Members of the early church were a family, in the truest sense of the word. They ate together, worshipped together, supported each other, gave freely to those in need (see Acts 2:41-47). Paul was the recipient of gifts from the church in Philippi, as they desired to meet his needs.

I read these words and have to ask myself, “Is the church of today anything like this?”

In some ways, the answer is yes. We do worship together. We do fellowship together. But not in the almost constant way of the early church.

I fear, for the most part, the answer is no. Let’s be honest. Would we be willing to sell all we own and give it to those in need? Would we be willing to get together with other believers every day—even several times each day—for worship and fellowship?

Yes, we have busy schedules. Yes, we have work or school commitments. Yes, we live miles away from our church homes. It’s not as easy as it was when everyone lived within walking distance.

But could we do more to emulate the early church? I ask this of myself as well. I think we could do more to be a true family. And I pray that somehow we will be.

Contentment (Phil. 4:10-13)

But I rejoiced in the Lord greatly that now at last your care for me has flourished again; though you surely did care, but you lacked opportunity. Not that I speak in regard to need, for I have learned in whatever state I am, to be content: I know how to be abased, and I know how to abound. Everywhere and in all things I have learned both to be full and to be hungry, both to abound and to suffer need. I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.
(Philippians 4:10-13, NKJV)

Paul understood “contentment” better than anyone. He knew he could be content at all times, no matter the circumstances, because Christ would give him strength.

It’s taken me a long time to learn contentment. Oh, I still get anxious or frustrated at times. I often dream of that Victorian cottage on the banks of a quiet river (maybe someday?). I sometimes wish I didn’t have health issues.

But, most of the time, I’m content with the life God has planned for me. And I anticipate—without fear or worry—my future because I know my Lord God, my Abba, will give me exactly what I need. My Savior will give me strength to accomplish what I’m supposed to do. The Holy Spirit will guide, encourage, and convict me.

I highly recommend contentment. It makes living this very hectic, stressful, uncertain life a little bit easier. Seriously.

Meditate on the Right Things (Phil. 4:8-9)

Finally, brethren, whatever things are true, whatever things are noble, whatever things are just, whatever things are pure, whatever things are lovely, whatever things are of good report, if there is any virtue and if there is anything praiseworthy—meditate on these things. The things which you learned and received and heard and saw in me, these do, and the God of peace will be with you.
(Philippians 4:8-9, NKJV)

If only we could really live by Paul’s exhortation in these verses. If only we could really meditate only on those things that are true, noble, just, pure, lovely, and of good report. If only we could really focus only on things of virtue, praiseworthy things.

Could you imagine how amazing life would be? All of us truthful. All of us speaking words of justice and nobility. All of us sharing pure and lovely thoughts.

Amazing.

Yet—and I can speak only for myself—too often my thoughts aren’t lovely. Too often, instead of words of praise, I utter words of reproach. I want to think pure thoughts. I want to speak words of truth. But too often, I fail.

Praise our Lord God, I can come to Him and ask for forgiveness when I do fail. I can ask for His help in keeping my thoughts pure and noble, and my words just and lovely. After all, I am that work in progress we talked about a while ago (Phil. 1:6).

And praise God for that!

All-surpassing Peace (Phil 4:6-7)

Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.
(Philippians 4:6-7, NKJV)

Ah. Two of my very favorite verses. I can’t count how many times the Lord has brought these verses to mind when I’ve faced challenges or trials. In fact, my “trademark” talk is called “Peace—It’s not just another sign,” and I refer to this verse more than once.

I’ve sought peace all my life. As a child, asking Jesus to come into my heart. Through rough teen and early-twenty years, when I rebelled. During my struggle with infertility. And now as I deal with chronic health issues.

I seek peace. Contentment. Even joy.

And I’ve learned over the years, I don’t have peace—won’t have peace—unless I submit to the Giver of peace. My Lord God, Sovereign of all creation, loves me with an everlasting love (Jeremiah 31:3), and He desires joy and peace for me.

Today’s verses give great guidelines for receiving God’s peace:

• Don’t be anxious.
• Be thankful.
• Request from God.

Then, that wonderful peace of God that surpasses anything we can find on earth will guard our hearts and minds. It will flow through us. It will let us handle each and every situation we encounter. Every time.

The Lord is At Hand (Phil. 4:5)

Let your gentleness be known to all men. The Lord is at hand.
(Philippians 4:5, NKJV)

The Lord is at hand. I love these words. So often in His word, our Lord reminds us that He is here with us at all times. Joshua heard the words, “… for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go” (1:9). The psalmist wrote, “Where can I go from Your Spirit? Or where can I flee from Your presence?” (139:7). His conclusion? Nowhere.

And we can know He loves us with an “everlasting love” (Jeremiah 31:3) and His covenant is equally everlasting (Jeremiah 32:40).

Jesus Himself promised to be with us always … always (Matthew 28:20).

Some might see God’s constant presence as “Big Brother” watching our every move, ready to pounce on us should we displease Him. Not me. I’m comforted beyond measure that He is with me, every moment of every day.

He walks alongside me, rejoicing with me in the good times, weeping with me in the times of pain. He holds my hand, guiding me. He carries my daily burden (Psalm 68:19).

The Lord is at hand. Thank You, Abba!

Rejoice Always (Phil. 4:4)

Rejoice in the Lord always. Again I will say, rejoice!
(Philippians 4:4, NKJV)

We Christians quote this verse … a lot. But it’s not as easy as it sounds, is it?

Oh, when the sun is shining, the pantry is full, the bills are paid, the children are home and safe, the husband empties the dishwasher without being asked … then it’s easy to rejoice. We sing praise songs. We thank the Lord for His blessings.

But rejoice always? When the storms hit? When past due notices pile up? When yet another interview ends with “You’re not quite the right fit”? When your teenager comes home reeking of alcohol? When your wife says she just doesn’t love you anymore? When the pain is unrelenting?

Rejoice?

That’s what Paul wrote. Rejoice always. Not just in the good times. Not just when the sun shines. Always.

How can we do this? It all comes down to a choice. You choose to rejoice. You choose to trust God’s faithfulness. You choose to believe Romans 8:28.

It’s okay to ask God “why” when things are hard or painful or confusing. But even when we don’t understand, we can remember God’s blessings, His past provision, His loving-kindness.

And we can rejoice.

Godly Women (Phil. 3:2-3)

I implore Euodia and I implore Syntyche to be of the same mind in the Lord. And I urge you also, true companion, help these women who labored with me in the gospel, with Clement also, and the rest of my fellow workers, whose names are in the Book of Life.
(Philippians 3:2-3, NKJV)

We sometimes forget how women were involved in the start of the early church. In Luke’s account of the early church, he wrote specifically that women were praying alongside the men (Acts 1:14) and believing women “were added to their number” (5:14). Later in his book, Luke wrote of a time when, in a “place of prayer," he spoke to the “women assembled there” (16:13). And women of prominence were involved in the early church (17:4, 12).

There’s a wonderful story of a godly couple who intervened when Apollos was preaching a partial gospel: “Priscilla and Aquila heard him, they took him aside and explained to him the way of God more accurately” (Acts 18:26). Notice whose name is first.

And I love Paul’s introduction in his second letter to Timothy. He wrote in glowing terms of his protégé’s faith, one that the younger man witnessed in his grandmother, Lois, and mother, Eunice (1:5).

Women were and are crucial to the faith. We too must “labor in the gospel” and be “fellow workers” in support of the body of Christ.

For we too have our “names in the Book of Life.”

Stand Fast (Phil. 4:1)

Therefore, my beloved and longed-for brethren, my joy and crown, so stand fast in the Lord, beloved.
(Philippians 4:1, NKJV)

Yesterday, we were reminded that those of us who follow Christ are far from home. But one day our Savior will transform and conform us. One day we will be with Him for eternity.

So while we’re here on this rapidly-declining earth, we can “stand fast.” We can live in hope. We can trust our heavenly Father to work His perfect plan in and through us. We can be assured of His faithfulness.

And although Paul wrote these words almost two millennia ago to the believers in Philippi, we can know—beyond doubt—we are beloved of God. We are longed-for. We are His joy and crown.

Stand fast, my friends. Stand fast.

Homesick (Phil 3:20-21)

For our citizenship is in heaven, from which we also eagerly wait for the Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ, who will transform our lowly body that it may be conformed to His glorious body, according to the working by which He is able even to subdue all things to Himself.
(Philippians 3:20-21, NKJV)

Are you homesick? Maybe you’re away at school, and you miss home-cooked meals. Or you’re serving as a missionary, and you long for a face-to-face conversation with your mom. Or you’re in the military, and you would give anything to hold your toddler.

I remember a time when I felt homesick. I’d spent the summer traveling with a Christian musical group, and then because of some difficult choices, I decided to move temporarily to the mid-west. It was hard being away from friends and family. And when my sister-in-law announced she was pregnant, I packed my car and moved back home.

Yes, I’ve been homesick. But I’ve never been as homesick as I am now. But it’s not for this physical home God’s blessed me with. It’s not missing family or living on memories. I’m homesick for my real home.

There’s an old gospel song, “This world is not my home. I’m just a’passin’ through.” And that’s exactly how I feel. I reside in a temporary home, and my heart longs more and more for the place of my true citizenship. One day, Jesus will take me home, whether through death or through His triumphant return.

One day, I’ll be home. And I’ll never be homesick again.

A Morning of Joy

The women rose early that Sunday morning—those who could sleep at all. Yesterday, they’d gathered together to mourn the terrible loss. They’d embraced, holding each other in desperate grief.

It was beyond comprehension. Jesus was dead.

Mary Magdalene, who owed her very life to the Master, assembled the various herbs and oils they’d need to anoint the body. The body of Jesus …

Salome, who’d followed Jesus for months, folded clean linens that would replace Friday evening’s hastily applied wrappings.

Mary, the mother of James, assured Jesus’ own mother they’d take great care of her Son. “Just rest today, Mary. We will come back to you as soon as we can. Just rest.”

They met outside Salome’s home, and quietly made their way to the tomb. Speaking softly. Weeping quietly. Mary Magdalene wondered out loud, “Who will move the stone? Certainly the guards will not help us.”

Around the last bend to the burial site. Bracing themselves to view the body of their Master.

What was this? The stone already rolled away? Who had already been to the grave so early this Sunday morning?

Mary Magdalene stooped to look, and then wailed, “He is gone! Someone has stolen His body.”

Salome and Mary joined in her sobbing.

Then a voice: "Do not be amazed; you are looking for Jesus the Nazarene, who has been crucified He has risen; He is not here; behold, here is the place where they laid Him. But go, tell His disciples and Peter, He is going ahead of you to Galilee; there you will see Him, just as He told you.” (Mark 16:6-6)

The women fled, trembling, and rushed back to where Christ’s intimates had gathered. They told Peter and the others what they had been told. Peter and John ran to the tomb, followed closely by Mary Magdalene. As the two men entered the tomb, Mary stood outside weeping. Even with the words she’d heard, she still didn’t understand.

Then a voice just behind her asked, “Woman, why are you weeping?”

She assumed it was the gardener and cried, “Because they have taken away my Lord, and I do not know where they have laid Him … if you have carried Him away, tell me where you have laid Him, and I will take Him away." (John 20:14-15)

Then a miracle. The voice, one she finally recognized, said just one word, “Mary!”

She turned. It was the Master! Alive! Just as He’d said.

A night of sorrow and a day of silence, immediately became a morning of joy! The Master lived!

And the world would never be the same.

A Day of Silence

Saturday morning. Those who had followed Jesus woke to silence.

John remembered standing at the foot of the cross, his arm around Mary. Jesus had asked him to look after her as a son would. In silence, he wept as Jesus took His last breath. In silence, he watched as they lowered His broken body. In silence, he followed Joseph of Arimathea, who took Jesus’ body to a tomb. In silence, he watched them roll the stone. In silence, he led the grieving mother back to his own home. And this morning, in silence, he grieved.

Peter remembered Jesus’ prophecy. He would deny his master. How prideful he’d been as he boasted, “Never, Lord! Never will I deny you.” In silence, he now wept bitter tears. In silence, he prayed to Yahweh, begging for forgiveness. In silence, he wished for another chance to unashamedly claim allegiance to Jesus. And this morning, in silence, he grieved.

Thomas remembered Jesus telling them He was going to prepare a place for them, but he didn’t understand what He meant. He thought Jesus would be setting up a kingdom on earth. Now He was dead. In silence, he wondered what would become of him. In silence, he listened for the gait of soldiers coming to arrest him as well. In silence, he questioned all he’d learned. And this morning, in silence, he grieved.

The others—Philip, James, Nathanael, Andrew, Matthew, Bartholomew, Judas [son of James], Simon—each remembered the words of Jesus. In silence, they recalled His miracles. In silence, they feared for their own lives. And this morning, in silence, they grieved.

The hours between Jesus’ death on Friday and Sunday morning are silent for us as well. The Bible doesn’t give even a hint of where His followers went, what they said, what they thought. But we can imagine. We can imagine their thoughts, their fears, their confusion. But the one things we don’t have to imagine?

In silence, that Saturday, they grieved. Because they didn’t know Sunday morning was coming.

A Night of Sorrow

They really didn’t understand. The Master had told them time and time again that He must die. But somehow they thought He would live forever. Teach forever. Heal forever. Always be with them.

Last night, the Master had washed their feet. He had broken bread with them and told them it was as though they were eating His very body. And then He passed the wine. It was as His blood, He said. As they supped together, He told them one of them—one of His own—would betray Him. Judas Iscariot left abruptly, but they didn’t realize why.

Supper over, they accompanied Him to the garden where He often went to pray. It was quiet, peaceful. And then all hell broke out. Judas Iscariot led a detachment of soldiers, and they arrested Jesus! Jesus. The Master.

How could this be?

They all ran in fear, but they heard of the trumped up charges. The false witnesses. The beatings. The ridicule.

When they saw Him again, He was carrying His own method of execution. And they barely recognized Him.

Bloodied. Beaten. Eyes swollen almost shut. Skin flayed. Such suffering. Such agony.

How could this be?

From a distance, many followed the parade of jeering people. The fingers pointing. The cruel laughter.

And finally, Golgotha. Nails pounded through flesh. Cross lifted and then dropped. Moans. Cries of pain. Struggled breathing.

“My God! My God, why have You forsaken Me?”

A mother’s heartbreak. A beloved friend’s tears. Enemies’ mocking voices, “If You’re really the King of the Jews, get down from there!”

A quiet voice, “Lord, remember me when You come into Your kingdom.” An answer, “You will be with Me this very day.”

“It is finished!”

Earthquakes. Darkness. Silence.

The Master, Jesus, was … dead.

How could this be?

Walk With the Godly (Phil. 3:17-19)

Brethren, join in following my example, and note those who so walk, as you have us for a pattern. For many walk, of whom I have told you often, and now tell you even weeping, that they are the enemies of the cross of Christ: whose end is destruction, whose god is their belly, and whose glory is in their shame—who set their mind on earthly things.
(Philippians 3:17-19, NKJV)

Paul’s heart broke when he thought of the lost. He didn’t look down on them or take on a “holier than thou” attitude. He didn’t ridicule them. He didn’t ignore them.

He wept over them. He foresaw their destruction—eternal separation from God. And he desired that his spiritual children would not follow in their steps. Paul exhorted the Christians in Philippi to follow the example of godly men and women, to walk as they walked. I know he’d pray the same for us today.

Do you have an example of strong faith that you can emulate? Do you have a mentor who exemplifies a godly walk? Maybe it’s your parents. Or a church leader. Or someone whom you’ve never met, but who inspires you.

If you don’t, please find one. Read the works of C.H. Spurgeon or Oswald Chambers. Ask your Bible study teacher if she would recommend a mentor. Look around you. There’s someone who would be honored and privileged to walk with you on your path to stronger faith.

And if you’ve been walking with the Lord for a while now, be an example to those younger in their faith. Help them to avoid any pitfalls of following the world. And for those who don't know Christ? Be salt and light to them. Weep over them. Let your heart break so your desire is to help them find truth.

We're on this journey together, brothers and sisters. Let's do all we can to help others know Christ more and more deeply.

Be Mature (Phil. 3:15-16)

Therefore let us, as many as are mature, have this mind; and if in anything you think otherwise, God will reveal even this to you. Nevertheless, to the degree that we have already attained, let us walk by the same rule, let us be of the same mind.
(Philippians 3:15-16, NKJV)

Just as we mature and grow physically, we mature and grow spiritually. And we require the same things: food to nourish; relationships to develop emotionally; study and learning to stimulate mentally.

If a child isn’t fed regularly and nutritionally, her growth is stunted. If she doesn’t have regular, positive interaction with others, she becomes socially inept. If she is never given the opportunity to read or learn, she stays childlike in her thinking.

The same is true for believers. We must be nourished by God’s word—studying it, meditating on it—every day. We must spend time with God in prayer and solitude, listening to His voice. We must also spend time with other believers to learn from them and fellowship with them. We must stimulate our minds by reading books that make us question, that strengthen our beliefs, that challenge us.

Some seem to think that being a Christian means praying a prayer and then just going merrily on our way. While accepting God’s gift of salvation is key to forgiveness and eternity with our Lord, it’s not the end. It’s the beginning. Let us not be content with where we are today. Rather, let us have a true desire to be more, grow more, develop more. So we can indeed be mature Christ-followers.

Leaving the Past Behind (Phil. 3:12-14)

Not that I have already attained, or am already perfected; but I press on, that I may lay hold of that for which Christ Jesus has also laid hold of me. Brethren, I do not count myself to have apprehended; but one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind and reaching forward to those things which are ahead, I press toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus.
(Philippians 3:12-14, NKJV)

When I recommitted my life to the Lord over sixteen years ago, I adopted Philippians 3:13-14 as my life verses. Short story: Although I’d asked Jesus to come into my heart when I was six years old, I’d allowed some painful situations to take me away from my child-like faith. For twenty years, I walked a deliberate path, one far from my Lord, and I made some really poor choices.

For a time after I found my way back to the arms of the Father, I’d beat myself up with regret over those twenty lost years. If only I’d been stronger. If only I’d clung more tightly to Jesus. If only …

Then God blessed me with these verses. I don’t have to live in the past. I don’t have to continually berate myself for former choices. When I asked Jesus to take over my life—completely—and forgive me for all the things I’d done that were wrong and selfish and rebellious, He forgave me. He washed me clean. He removed my sin as far as the east is from the west (Psalm 103:12).

I didn’t have to look at what had been. Rather, I could look forward to what God had planned for my future. I could anticipate being used for His glory, to serve others. I could delight in knowing that, one day, I’ll receive the prize of eternity with Christ Jesus.

These verses have been a comfort and have encouraged me countless times. And I praise God for the assurance I have that He has truly forgiven me, that He continues to work in and through me. That the story isn’t quite complete.

I can press on, leaving the past behind, knowing He’s beside me all the way.

Gain Versus Loss (Phil. 3:7-11)

But what things were gain to me, these I have counted loss for Christ. Yet indeed I also count all things loss for the excellence of the knowledge of Christ Jesus my Lord, for whom I have suffered the loss of all things, and count them as rubbish, that I may gain Christ and be found in Him, not having my own righteousness, which is from the law, but that which is through faith in Christ, the righteousness which is from God by faith; that I may know Him and the power of His resurrection, and the fellowship of His sufferings, being conformed to His death, if, by any means, I may attain to the resurrection from the dead.
(Philippians 3:7-11, NKJV)

How often do we put our trust in things? Or circumstances? Or people? How often do we think, if I only had this job? Or if I were married to so and so? Or if I lived there?

Then life would be perfect.

But that’s a lie. Things are temporary. Circumstances come and go. What we think is so important today means nothing tomorrow. Nothing has real meaning in this world. Nothing except our faith, that is. What the world sees as “gain” is “rubbish.” It’s trash. It belongs in a landfill.

So we can and should hold things loosely. We should gladly give up everything for our Lord and Savior. We should be willing to lose what the world so highly cherishes, being assured that, if we do, we will attain what lasts: resurrection from the dead. Eternity with Christ.

Nothing else matters.

Nothing We Do (Phil. 3:3-6)

For we are the circumcision, who worship God in the Spirit, rejoice in Christ Jesus, and have no confidence in the flesh, though I also might have confidence in the flesh. If anyone else thinks he may have confidence in the flesh, I more so: circumcised the eighth day, of the stock of Israel, of the tribe of Benjamin, a Hebrew of the Hebrews; concerning the law, a Pharisee; concerning zeal, persecuting the church; concerning the righteousness which is in the law, blameless.
(Philippians 3:3-6, NKJV)

Saul was the most religious of the religious. Before meeting Jesus on the Damascus road, he was a letter-perfect Pharisee. He traced his family tree back to Benjamin, the son of Jacob. He followed the law with precision. He was, in the eyes of man, “blameless.”

How often do we rely on our “pedigree” to save us? Even today, with Christianity so reviled in the press, polls are taken in which a very high percentage of respondents claim to be Christians.

I went to church as a kid, they say. I was raised in a Christian home, they say. I’m an American, so I’m a Christian, they say. (Although the latter seems to be said less and less these days …) I follow the Ten Commandments, so I’m good, they say.

Saul—now Paul—thought he had everything under control. He thought he knew it all. Then he met Jesus Christ, God the Son. And he recognized that nothing he was, nothing he’d done, brought salvation. He met the true Messiah, the Savior, the Redeemer.

And his life changed forever.

It’s not our heritage that brings salvation. It’s not our hard work. It’s not who we know or where we come from. No. It’s a meeting with God. It’s the realization that we cannot do anything to receive the blessing of forgiveness and eternal life with God—Father, Son, and Spirit.

Have you met Jesus? If not, you can meet Him today. Just admit you’re incapable on your own and ask Jesus to forgive you and to take over your life. Then get a Bible and read the book of John. Find a church that teaches truth from the word of God.

And your life will be changed forever.