Loving as Christ Does (Eph. 5:25-30)

Husbands, love your wives, just as Christ also loved the church and gave Himself up for her, so that He might sanctify her, having cleansed her by the washing of water with the word, that He might present to Himself the church in all her glory, having no spot or wrinkle or any such thing; but that she would be holy and blameless. So husbands ought also to love their own wives as their own bodies. He who loves his own wife loves himself; for no one ever hated his own flesh, but nourishes and cherishes it, just as Christ also does the church, because we are members of His body.
(Ephesians 5:25-30, NASB)

Yesterday, I resurrected my comments about wives being subject to husband. I wrote, “… in a healthy marriage, husbands and wives want the best for each other.”

Paul takes this a step further … for husbands, at least. Husbands are commanded to love their wives “as Christ also loved the church.”

Christ experienced overwhelming pain and suffering for His church. He faced betrayal, ridicule, and denial. He was rejected. He was brutally killed. For His church.

And that’s how husbands are to love their wives.

Further, they are to love their wives as they love themselves. They are to “nourish and cherish” their wives.

That means husbands are to “promote the growth of,” and I think that means providing for their wives physically, but also to encourage them emotionally and spiritually. Husbands are also to “feel or show affection for” their wives and to “keep or cultivate with care and affection.”

Husbands are not to belittle their wives or verbally abuse them. And they certainly are not to physically abuse them.

Rather, they are to be, as Paul wrote in 1 Corinthians 13, kind and patient, not jealous or arrogant (vv. 4-7).

Or as he wrote to the church in Ephesus: to love as Jesus does.

Wives Be Subject ... (Eph. 5:18-21)

Wives, be subject to your own husbands, as to the Lord. For the husband is the head of the wife, as Christ also is the head of the church, He Himself being the Savior of the body. But as the church is subject to Christ, so also the wives ought to be to their husbands in everything.
(Ephesians 5:18-21, NASB)

Over a year ago, I meditated on 1 Peter for this devotional. And when I got to 1 Peter 3:1-6, I wrote the following (and since today’s verses deal with the same, I’m going to use these words again):

I almost want to skip today’s verses because someone’s going to take issue with what I’m going to say. I can guarantee it. But if I’m going to go through [Ephesians] verse by verse, I need to meditate on every verse, even those that are uncomfortable for me or for others.
So here we go.

Submission—biblical submission—has quite a negative rap these days. I believe it’s not as bad as people make it out to be. I’m writing a Bible study for women in unequally yoked marriages, and I address this:

Submissive: Being willing to be subject to something. Did you catch that? To submit is an issue of willingness. I read recently that a wife-to-husband relationship is similar to a vice president-to-president relationship. Certainly a vice president is able to do as much (or perhaps more) than the president. They work together, often make decisions together. However, he willingly submits to the authority of the president because there needs to be one leader. In the same way, we as wives contribute and have a voice, but there does have to be a final authority. Submission does not mean we’re to accept bullying or abuse.”
Excerpted from You’re Not Alone © 2010 Sauni Rinehart

I believe there does need to be one leader in a marriage, one final decision maker. But I also believe in a healthy marriage, husbands and wives want the best for each other. So they’ll cooperate. They’ll discuss. They’ll compromise. So submission isn’t so difficult.

You may disagree, but I challenge you. If you’re in a Christian marriage, pray for God to work in your heart. Pray for that “imperishable quality of a gentle and quiet spirit” (1 Peter 1:4).

Not a doormat. Not a whipping post. Rather, a woman of God who desires to be precious in the sight of her God.

Sing Songs of Praise (Eph. 5:18-21)

And do not get drunk with wine, for that is dissipation, but be filled with the Spirit, speaking to one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody with your heart to the Lord; always giving thanks for all things in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ to God, even the Father; and be subject to one another in the fear of Christ.
(Ephesians 5:18-21, NASB)

I have no problem with a glass of wine here and there—I don’t think there’s anything in the Bible that says it’s wrong—but God’s word is very clear about one thing: We’re not to get drunk. Instead, we should be filled with the Holy Spirit and His fruit: love, joy, patience, self-control and so on (Gal.5:22-23).

And who needs to drink when we can praise God with songs and psalms? I love music. I love everything about it. I love harmonies and melodies. I love well-written, meaningful lyrics. I often feel closest to the Lord when I’m singing words of praise, and I feel joy when I’m “making melody with [my] heart to the Lord …” More joy than I feel at pretty much any other time.

When I sing words like, “Holy is the Lord God Almighty” or “Lord, I Believe in You” or “Awesome is the Lord More High”, I am filled with … well, feelings I just can’t fully explain. Gratitude. Humility. Awe.

And I’m so thankful for what God has done in my life. His faithfulness. His grace and mercy. His love.

Yep. Who needs wine when we can life our voices with song?

Be Careful How You Walk (Eph. 5:15-16)

Therefore be careful how you walk, not as unwise men but as wise, making the most of your time, because the days are evil. So then do not be foolish, but understand what the will of the Lord is.
(Ephesians 5:15-16, NASB)

When Paul wrote, “… the days are evil …” he could well have been written about our world today. No question.

So just as the Christians in Ephesus were cautioned, we should also take Paul’s words to heart. We too should be “careful how [we] walk.” We must be wise, not foolish.

We are to make “most of [our] time.” What might that mean? For me, that means I should be focused on things of the Lord. Always. I should be concerned with serving Him and others. I should love as Jesus loves. I should strive to use our time in kingdom-building efforts. Sharing the gospel. Encouraging others in faith. Strengthening our own faith through study of God’s word.

And finally, we’re to “understand what the will of the Lord is.” And we know God’s will through prayer, through His word, and—sometimes—through godly counsel from friends and family.

Yes, we live in evil days, yet we must not allow the evil of this world steal our focus from what’s really important: doing God’s will and keeping our eyes on the prize—eternity with our Lord and Savior.

Light in the Darkness (Eph. 5:11-14)

Do not participate in the unfruitful deeds of darkness, but instead even expose them; for it is disgraceful even to speak of the things which are done by them in secret. But all things become visible when they are exposed by the light, for everything that becomes visible is light. For this reason it says,
"Awake, sleeper,
And arise from the dead,
And Christ will shine on you."
(Ephesians 5:11-14, NASB)

I wrote yesterday that dark and light cannot coexist. When light is extinguished, dark wins. But when the tiniest flame is lit in a pitch-black room, it illuminates even the darkest corner.

We live in a dark world—a very dark world. Sin is rampant. Greed and corruption destroy. Lust and sensuality abound. The enemy of our souls and his minions are waging warfare. As Paul wrote:

For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this age, against spiritual hosts of wickedness in the heavenly places (Eph. 6:12).

Yes. A very dark world.

We can live with hope, however. If we truly believe in the grace of God, if we believe Jesus came to earth to save lost souls, if we desire to be salt and light, Jesus will shine on and through us. He’ll cast out darkness. He’ll conquer our enemies.

Because “He who is in [us] is greater than he who is in the world …” (1 John 4:4). And we already know Who wins the war: Jesus Himself said, “…in Me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation; but be of good cheer, I have overcome the world (John 16:33).

So let Him shine in and through you.

Take It to Heart (Eph. 5:5-10)

For this you know with certainty, that no immoral or impure person or covetous man, who is an idolater, has an inheritance in the kingdom of Christ and God. Let no one deceive you with empty words, for because of these things the wrath of God comes upon the sons of disobedience. Therefore do not be partakers with them; for you were formerly darkness, but now you are Light in the Lord; walk as children of Light (for the fruit of the Light consists in all goodness and righteousness and truth), trying to learn what is pleasing to the Lord.
(Ephesians 5:5-10, NASB)

Paul gives several exhortations in these few verses … and we should take them to heart.

Let no one deceive you with empty words. This world is full of promises—for success, for prosperity, even for salvation. Living according to the world’s standards is beyond foolish. It’s risking “inheritance in the kingdom of Christ and God.”

“… do not be partakers …” with those who are immoral, impure, covetous … those who worship other idols. We just cannot, cannot, live like the world. We must live as God’s word commands us, dwelling on those things that are pure and true and lovely (see Phil. 4:8).

“… walk as children of Light …” Our Lord and Savior is Light (John 1:6-10) and He Himself called us to be “light of the world” (Matt. 5:14). Light and darkness cannot co-exist. Light casts out all darkness, and our light—the Light—should shine through us to cast out the darkness of this world.

“… learn what is pleasing to the Lord.” And how do we do that? By reading His word. By meditating on its truths. By surrendering ourselves to Him every day. By seeking His will in all things.

Strong exhortations … will you take them to heart?

Out of the Mouth ... (Eph. 5:3-4)

But immorality or any impurity or greed must not even be named among you, as is proper among saints; and there must be no filthiness and silly talk, or coarse jesting, which are not fitting, but rather giving of thanks.
(Ephesians 5:3-4, NASB)

I’ve asked similar questions before, but if someone who didn’t know you observed you for a day, would he know you were a follower of Christ? If he listened to your interactions at work, read your FaceBook posts, watched you converse with your friends, would he see someone who’s any different than someone who didn’t claim to be a Christian?

How often do you share the latest off-color joke? Are certain vulgarities (those words that would be “bleeped” from a live television show or on an airline movie) part of your regular vocabulary? Do you gossip? Or lie? Or pad the books?

Does your mouth, as James wrote, “… bless our God and Father, and with it we curse men, who have been made in the similitude of God. Out of the same mouth proceed blessing and cursing. My brethren, these things ought not to be so” (3:9-10).

Or would that observer see you spending time in God’s word. Praying. Helping others. Saying kind words. Edifying those around you.

I fear many of us wouldn’t stand up to that kind of scrutiny. I fear many of us have allowed the world to influence us rather than the other way around. I fear we love the world more than we love our Savior.

And “these things ought not to be so …”

Or as Jesus asked, “For what profit is it to a man if he gains the whole world, and loses his own soul? Or what will a man give in exchange for his soul?” (Matthew 16:26).

A Fragrant Aroma (Eph. 5:1-2)

Therefore be imitators of God, as beloved children; and walk in love, just as Christ also loved you and gave Himself up for us, an offering and a sacrifice to God as a fragrant aroma.
(Ephesians 5:1-2, NASB)

Walk in love. A continual, deliberate action.

Love as Jesus loves, giving ourselves to others just as Jesus gave Himself for us.

And why?

Well, first, because we’re commanded to do so as God’s children. But there’s a better blessing for us when we love as Jesus does.

Our love for others is given as an offering to God. And sometimes it is a sacrifice. When we love as Jesus loves us, we offer a “fragrant aroma” to God. And He is well-pleased.

When we love, we “are to God the fragrance of Christ among those who are being saved and among those who are perishing …” (2 Cor. 2:15). Others look at us and see how God’s love flows through us. A love that is kind and patient and forbearing. A love that doesn’t hold grudges and isn’t jealous. (See 1 Cor. 13:4-7.)

How many people might be attracted to Jesus because they see a sacrificial, other-serving love in us? Instead of judgment, they see mercy. Instead of anger, they see peace. Instead of hate, they see love.

As I wrote Saturday, it could change the world.

Change Your World (Eph. 4:32)

Be kind to one another, tender-hearted, forgiving each other, just as God in Christ also has forgiven you.
(Ephesians 4:32, NASB)

Think of how different our world would be if we were all kind to one another. If we forgave each other as we have been forgiven.

No anger or bitterness. No grudges or desire for revenge.

No jealousy or coveting.

No putting others down.

Just a world full of people showing love. Looking out for each other. Treating each other with respect. Providing for those less fortunate.

All of us would “regard one another as more important than [ourselves]” (Phil. 2:3). We’d love our neighbors more than we love ourselves ((Mark 12:30). We’d even be willing to lay down our lives for others (John 15:13).

Oh, what a world it would be.

Maybe we can’t change the entire world, but what about our own small circles of influence? What if each of us chose to be kind to those around us? If we were tender-hearted? If we forgave those closest to us?

It would be pretty amazing. So let’s try it. Let’s determine to accept Paul’s challenge and change—if not the whole world—our own “worlds.”

Put Away Anger (Eph. 4:31)

Let all bitterness and wrath and anger and clamor and slander be put away from you, along with all malice.
(Ephesians 4:31, NASB)

Bitterness and wrath and anger … These are destructive. They can tear apart families. They can annihilate friendships. They can kill the soul.

And so often they start “justifiably.”

Someone hurts us or someone we love. We have the “right” to be angry. And perhaps we do. We should be angry at injustice or blatant sin.

However, we have to be very, very careful to not let righteous anger grow to a bitterness that flames out of control.

I speak from experience. I was “justifiably” angry at the men who abused me. Between the ages of nine and sixteen, I was abused by three men … and I was angry. But instead of dealing with the pain, instead of offering forgiveness—whether they asked for it or not—I allowed the anger to grow from a tiny flame to a forest fire in my heart and soul. It burned away peace and joy and contentment.

And that bitterness and wrath and anger pulled me away from faith. From my Father.

There’s a saying: “Anger is like taking poison and expecting the other person to die.”

If your heart is full of anger—righteous or not—I encourage you to do two things: First, forgive whomever has hurt you. It won’t be easy, but you can do it if you do the second: Give all your bitterness and wrath and anger to the Lord. Ask Him to help you forgive. Ask Him to fill your heart with love instead of anger. Peace instead of bitterness. Joy instead of wrath.

Don't Grieve the Holy Spirit (Eph. 4:30)

Do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God, by whom you were sealed for the day of redemption.
(Ephesians 4:30, NASB)

Yesterday, we looked at how we should avoid “unwholesome” words. When we don’t, we “grieve the Holy Spirit of God.”

What does it mean to “grieve the Holy Spirit”? To grieve is to “cause to suffer.” Can you imagine it? Causing the Holy Spirit—part of the triune God—to suffer? As Paul often wrote, may it never be!

And what is the result of our grieving the Spirit? I researched this concept, and the Adam Clarke Commentary says, when we “give to sin,” we grieve the Spirit so He “shall withdraw both [His] light and presence …” And the Matthew Henry Concise Commentary exhorts, “Provoke not the holy, blessed Spirit of God to withdraw his presence and his gracious influences.”

Oh my … The Holy Spirit withdraws His very presence? This puts my using “unwholesome” words—or sinning at all—in a new perspective. I need the Spirit's presence. I need His affirmation and conviction daily. And to think that my sin might cause Him to withdraw His presence and influence?

That causes me to grieve.

No Unwholesome Words (Eph. 4:29)

Let no unwholesome word proceed from your mouth, but only such a word as is good for edification according to the need of the moment, so that it will give grace to those who hear.
(Ephesians 4:29, NASB)

Oh, I remember when the English language was rich and diverse. I’ve been a lover of the written world for as long as I can remember. I love to read. I love to write. I even taught English at the college level for over ten years. Yet now, it seems like people’s vocabulary is very limited.

Words that just a generation ago were considered vulgarities are part of our lexicon. One particular “former” vulgarity seems to be used as a noun, verb, adverb, and adjective. Yes, we have a new vocabulary in our culture. But that really doesn’t make it wholesome—or “sound in body, mind, or morals.”

And with the proliferation of ways to interact (internet, social networks, texts), we’re seeing and hearing things we never have before. But that doesn’t really mean it’s edifying—or “instruct[ing] or improv[ing] especially in moral or religious knowledge.”

Are the words we use true and just and honorable? (See Phil. 4:8.) Do they honor our Lord? Do they build up others?

Think about the words you use. Are they wholesome and sound? Will they instruct others’ moral knowledge?

Think about it. And then say it well.

God's Gift ... of Gifts (Eph. 4:11-13)

And He gave some as apostles, and some as prophets, and some as evangelists, and some as pastors and teachers, for the equipping of the saints for the work of service, to the building up of the body of Christ; until we all attain to the unity of the faith, and of the knowledge of the Son of God, to a mature man, to the measure of the stature which belongs to the fullness of Christ.
(Ephesians 4:11-13, NASB)

Each of us is gifted by God to serve Him in a way only we can. And when you stop to think about it, God’s gifts in us are gifts to us.

God doesn’t need us to do His work. He is more than able to reach people and care for them without us. In fact, I’m sure there are times when we hamper His work.

Yet He loves us so much, He allows us to join Him in His kingdom work. He uses us to serve others, and He gives us the privilege of seeing how that service impacts them.

What an amazingly wonderful gift!

So some of us evangelize. Some of us preach. Some of us teach. And all of us equip the saints and build the body of Christ. And though there may be thousands of preachers, God uses each uniquely. And though there may be thousands of teachers, God speaks through each differently.

I regularly speak to women’s groups, and I’m far from the best speaker around … Yet, when I speak, God uses me in a way He doesn’t use anyone else. He gives me a unique style, unique ways of using words. And He touches lives in a unique way—through me.

How has God gifted you? Do you know? If you don’t, talk to someone you trust, who knows you well, and ask them what they think. Find a gift assessment tool. And when you find out how God has uniquely gifted you, join Him in His kingdom-building plan.

And thank Him for allowing you to be a part of that plan.

Sin No Longer (Phil. 4:28)

He who steals must steal no longer; but rather he must labor, performing with his own hands what is good, so that he will have something to share with one who has need.
(Ephesians 4:28, NASB)

Today’s verse deals specifically with stealing, but I think we can replace “steal” with any habitual sin.

Whatever it is you deal with, whatever sin you struggle with, you “must [fill in the blank] no longer.”

We are, after all, “new creatures” in Christ (2 Cor. 5:17). We should be “transformed” every day (Rom. 12:2).

We need to do “what is good,” focusing on what is true and noble and just and pure and excellent. (See Phil. 4:8.) We need love our neighbors as Christ loves them—and He said, “Greater love has no one than this, than to lay down one’s life for his friends” (John 15:3).

And if we do, we’ll want to serve others, sharing with them what God has blessed us with.

Speak Truth. Avoid Anger. (Eph. 4:25-27)

Therefore, laying aside falsehood, SPEAK TRUTH EACH ONE of you WITH HIS NEIGHBOR, for we are members of one another. BE ANGRY, AND yet DO NOT SIN; do not let the sun go down on your anger, and do not give the devil an opportunity.
(Ephesians 4:25-27, NASB)

Speak truth. With everyone. This isn’t always an easy command to obey. Especially in our world where many say there is no real truth.

But if we serve the God of the Bible, we serve Truth, so we really have no choice. If we want to honor Him, if we want to serve each other, we must speak truth.

Be angry, and yet do not sin. Elsewhere, we’re told that wrath is a work of the flesh (Gal. 5:19-21), so how do we reconcile Paul’s words? I think the first is habitual. It’s living in daily, unrelenting anger. Whereas in today’s verses, there’s an understanding that we may get angry, but we need to seek resolution before the sun goes down.

If we allow anger to take residence in our hearts, we really do give the “devil an opportunity.” I know this from experience. I held on to anger and bitterness after years of abuse. And that anger took me on a very long journey away from faith.

Do you struggle with anger? Has it taken residence in your heart? Ask the Lord to help you deal with it. Ask Him for love and peace to overcome the anger and hate.

Don’t give the devil an opportunity.

Daily Surrender (Eph. 4:20-24)

But you did not learn Christ in this way, if indeed you have heard Him and have been taught in Him, just as truth is in Jesus, that, in reference to your former manner of life, you lay aside the old self, which is being corrupted in accordance with the lusts of deceit, and that you be renewed in the spirit of your mind, and put on the new self, which in the likeness of God has been created in righteousness and holiness of the truth.
(Ephesians 4:20-24, NASB)

When we committed our lives to Jesus, when we accepted His gift of salvation through the shedding of His blood, His death, and His resurrection, we became new creatures (2 Cor. 5:17). Our sins were removed from us, as far as the east is from the west (Ps. 103:12).

The Father saw us—and sees us—as clean and pure (Ps. 51:7).

But we live in a daily battle against the enemy of our souls. And even though he knows he lost the war with us, as long as he can keep us distracted from serving God and impacting others for God’s kingdom, he can win a battle or two.

So we must be on alert against his wiles and lies (1 Peter 5:8-9). We must—daily—“lay aside the old self” and take up the cross of serving God. We must—daily—“put on the new self” by renewing our minds, by surrendering everything to God.

When you wake each morning, ask God to give you strength for that day. Surrender anew yourself to Him. Seek His will. And commit to live that day to glorify Him.

Winning the Battle (Eph. 4:17-19)

So this I say, and affirm together with the Lord, that you walk no longer just as the Gentiles also walk, in the futility of their mind, being darkened in their understanding, excluded from the life of God because of the ignorance that is in them, because of the hardness of their heart; and they, having become callous, have given themselves over to sensuality for the practice of every kind of impurity with greediness.
(Ephesians 4:17-19, NASB)

Read any newspaper or listen to the news, watch the latest movie, or do some internet surfing, and you immediately see a world “excluded from the life of God.” Everyone living according to his or her own rules. No truth. No absolutes.

Futile minds. Dark understanding. Hard hearts. Calloused spirits. Devoted to sensuality. Practicing impurities. Greedy.

Makes you think the enemy is winning … and yes, he’s winning a battle or two. And those of us who follow Christ must be ready for each day’s attack.

We need to put on our defensive armor every single day (Eph. 6:10-17). The helmet of salvation to protect our thoughts and mind. The breastplate of righteousness to protect our hearts and emotions. The belt of truth so we can live according to God’s truth. The sandals of the gospel of peace so we can revel in the joy of knowing what Jesus did for us and so we can be showered with His peace. And the shield of faith, the very foundation of our relationships with God.

And we must take up the one offensive weapon in our arsenal: the sword of the Spirit, which is the very word of God. We must study and meditate on and memorize God’s word to us.

So when the enemy comes and tries to attack us with all those enticements of the world, we can withstand. We can stand firm.

And we can shine the light of Jesus. We can have strong minds. True understanding. Loving hearts. Willing spirits. We can be devoted to loving God and others. Practice the fruit of the spirit. Be generous.

Childish Christians (Eph. 4:14-16)

As a result, we are no longer to be children, tossed here and there by waves and carried about by every wind of doctrine, by the trickery of men, by craftiness in deceitful scheming; but speaking the truth in love, we are to grow up in all aspects into Him who is the head, even Christ, from whom the whole body, being fitted and held together by what every joint supplies, according to the proper working of each individual part, causes the growth of the body for the building up of itself in love.
(Ephesians 4:14-16, NASB)

I don’t mean to offend anyone, but it seems like the Christian community is full of “children.” So many people who call themselves Christ-followers have bought into the “pick and choose” philosophy this world offers.

I’m a Christian, they say, but I like this from Hinduism or that from Buddhism. I like the “new age” idea of being my own god. I mean, I still believe in the God of the Bible, but it feels good to think I’m in control. And of course, the Bible probably isn’t really “inerrant.” It’s just some guidelines. But I am a Christian.

So many are “tossed … and carried away by every wind of doctrine.” So many don’t even know what they’re supposed to believe because they haven’t been taught what the Bible says.

Tragic.

So instead of “grow[ing] up in all aspects into” Christ, so many stay unhealthily childish. They don’t work together with other believers to build the body of Christ. They don’t speak truth because they don’t know the truth.

Tragic indeed.

I pray—daily—for a revival in the hearts of those who follow Christ. A revival to really study God’s word and hold it in their hearts. A revival to embrace truth. A revival to go and make disciples, “teaching them to observe all [Jesus] commanded” (Matt. 28:19-20).

God's Gift of Gifts (Eph. 4:11-13)

NOTE: blogger.com had an issue. This was the post for May 12, 2011.

And He gave some as apostles, and some as prophets, and some as evangelists, and some as pastors and teachers, for the equipping of the saints for the work of service, to the building up of the body of Christ; until we all attain to the unity of the faith, and of the knowledge of the Son of God, to a mature man, to the measure of the stature which belongs to the fullness of Christ.
(Ephesians 4:11-13, NASB)

Each of us is gifted by God to serve Him in a way only we can. And when you stop to think about it, God’s gifts in us are gifts to us.

God doesn’t need us to do His work. He is more than able to reach people and care for them without us. In fact, I’m sure there are times when we hamper His work.

Yet He loves us so much, He allows us to join Him in His kingdom work. He uses us to serve others, and He gives us the privilege of seeing how that service impacts them.

What an amazingly wonderful gift!

So some of us evangelize. Some of us preach. Some of us teach. And all of us equip the saints and build the body of Christ. And though there may be thousands of preachers, God uses each uniquely. And though there may be thousands of teachers, God speaks through each differently.

I regularly speak to women’s groups, and I’m far from the best speaker around … yet, when I speak, God uses me in a way He doesn’t use anyone else. He gives me a unique style, unique ways of using words. And He touches lives in a unique way—through me.

How has God gifted you? Do you know? If you don’t, talk to someone you trust, who knows you well, and ask them what they think. Find a gift assessment tool. And when you find out how God has uniquely gifted you, join Him in His kingdom-building plan.

And thank Him for allowing you to be a part of that plan.

Our Ascended Savior (Eph. 4:8-10)

Therefore it says,
"WHEN HE ASCENDED ON HIGH,
HE LED CAPTIVE A HOST OF CAPTIVES,
AND HE GAVE GIFTS TO MEN."
(Now this expression, "He ascended," what does it mean except that He also had descended into the lower parts of the earth? He who descended is Himself also He who ascended far above all the heavens, so that He might fill all things.)
(Ephesians 4:8-10, NASB)

Our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, came to earth in human form. He grew up, experiencing the same things we do … happiness and sorrow, hunger and a full belly, fatigue and rest.

Through His teen years and twenties, He learned and plied the trade of His earthly father, constructing … well, we’re not exactly told what, but likely tables and shelves and bedsteads. He may have smashed a thumb or two with a hammer or felt the pain of sore muscles.

At thirty-three, He began His earthly ministry, and at the very first, experienced temptation by the lies of the enemy. He went on to heal lepers and blind men, cast out demons, and raise the dead to life. He grew intimate relationships with twelve chosen followers.

He taught love and warned of persecution. He claimed oneness with the Father, the Creator of all. He forgave sins.

Finally, He was betrayed by a close friend, denied by an even closer friend, and forced through a sham trial. Beaten. Ridiculed. Spat on.

Crucified. Buried. “… descended into the lower parts of the earth …”

Ah, but then He rose from the dead. Alive!

After spending time with His followers—some 500 of them—He ascended to the right hand of the Father. Where He sits today. Alive and interceding for us.

And one day, He will return. He will gather all His followers to Himself. One day, He will set up an earthly kingdom, a new heaven and new earth (Rev. 21:1), where “… God will wipe away every tear from their eyes; there shall be no more death, nor sorrow, nor crying. There shall be no more pain, for the former things have passed away” (Rev. 21:4).

Praise our Lord Jesus today for what He’s done and for whom He is.

One Way (Eph. 4:4-6)

There is one body and one Spirit, just as also you were called in one hope of your calling; one Lord, one faith, one baptism, one God and Father of all who is over all and through all and in all. But to each one of us grace was given according to the measure of Christ's gift.
(Ephesians 4:4-6, NASB)

Many people would tell you that there are many ways to salvation. That it doesn’t matter what you believe as long as you’re sincere. That as long as your good outweighs bad, you’re set.

Even many who call themselves Christian say the same. They even say Jesus never claimed to be the only way of salvation.

Now you can certainly choose to believe what you will, but if you believe in the God of the Bible, you’re not given any other option but one: “Jesus said to him, ‘I am the way, and the truth, and the life; no one comes to the Father but through Me …’” (John 14:6).

No other way.

Worthy of God's Calling (Eph. 4:1-3)

Therefore I, the prisoner of the Lord, implore you to walk in a manner worthy of the calling with which you have been called, with all humility and gentleness, with patience, showing tolerance for one another in love, being diligent to preserve the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace.
(Ephesians 4:1-3, NASB)

We are unworthy of any grace or mercy, yet God sees us as worthy. We are sinful by nature, yet when we accept the gift of salvation, our sins are washed away.

So how do we—in even the smallest way—honor God and show Him gratitude for that gift?

By learning to “walk in a manner worthy of [God’s] calling.”

And how do we do that?

Paul lays it out well: We need to be humble, gentle, patient, and tolerant in love, and we need to preserve unity in peace.

Pretty tall order, isn’t it?

I’m pretty sure I can be gentle … and I’m pretty tolerant in love, accepting people as they are. And sometimes that does mean “love the sinner, hate the sin.” I seek peace in all interactions.

But patience? I’ve been working on that one for ages—or should I say the Spirit has been working in me. I still tend to want what I want when I want it. I am getting better at this, though, the older I get. I recognize how God has worked in the past, and His timing is usually not my timing.

And humility? This is another area in which I need help. I’m learning to put others ahead of myself (Phil. 2:3-4).

It’s not easy, but it’s part of the journey. And—praise God!—my walk is an ongoing, continuous action, and I’ll continue growing and learning until I meet my Lord face-to-face.

So how’s your walk? Are you struggling with any of these? Pray that the Spirit will work in you and through you, so you will be worthy of God’s calling.

Glory, Honor, and Praise (Eph. 3:20-21)

Now to Him who is able to do far more abundantly beyond all that we ask or think, according to the power that works within us, to Him be the glory in the church and in Christ Jesus to all generations forever and ever. Amen.
(Ephesians 3:20-21, NASB)

Our God—Father, Son, and Spirit—deserves all glory, honor, and praise.

He is all-mighty, all-knowing, all-loving. He is Lord of lords and King of kings. He is Savior and Redeemer.

He is wise and just, righteous and holy. He is counselor and friend, ever-present and constant.

He is the Alpha and Omega. He has always been and will always be.

He is our strength, our refuge, our stronghold. He heals, protects, and provides.

He is our Shepherd, and He carries us when we’re weak.

He is the giver of peace and joy.

He is our guide and the lifter of our heads.

He works all things for good, and His plan is perfect.

He is everything we could ever want or ever need.

And one day, we’ll be able to stand in His very presence and worship Him eternally.

A Prayer for Today (Eph. 3:13-19)

Therefore I ask you not to lose heart at my tribulations on your behalf, for they are your glory. For this reason I bow my knees before the Father, from whom every family in heaven and on earth derives its name, that He would grant you, according to the riches of His glory, to be strengthened with power through His Spirit in the inner man, so that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith; and that you, being rooted and grounded in love, may be able to comprehend with all the saints what is the breadth and length and height and depth, and to know the love of Christ which surpasses knowledge, that you may be filled up to all the fullness of God.
(Ephesians 3:13-19, NASB)

This is my prayer for my family and friends today.

I pray, as Paul did, that each of them might be “strengthened with power through His spirit.” We live in difficult, turbulent times. So many of those I love are struggling with health issues. They’re valiantly searching for jobs, wondering how they’ll pay next month’s bills. They’re grieving over the loss of loved ones. And so I pray for a supernatural strength that comes only from our Lord.

I pray that “Christ may dwell in [their] hearts through faith.” Faith is the foundation of our relationships with God—Father, Son, and Spirit. It is the “handle on what we can’t see” (Heb. 11:1, MSG). Faith comes from having complete trust in God, knowing He is working all things for His glory and our ultimate good (Rom. 8:28).

I pray that they will truly, deeply know God’s love, the love that “surpasses knowledge.” A love that is everlasting (Jer. 31:3). A love that will never forsake (Heb. 13:5). A love that was willing to sacrifice God’s only Son for us (John 3:16).

Those of us who know God are blessed, just by being His children. And yet He gives us so much more. No matter what is happening in this world and in our lives, God is in loving control. He will strengthen us with a love that is beyond comprehension.

Amen and amen.

Boldness and Confidence (Eph. 3:11-12)

This was in accordance with the eternal purpose which He carried out in Christ Jesus our Lord, in whom we have boldness and confident access through faith in Him.
(Ephesians 3:11-12, NASB)

How bold is your faith? How confident are you in God’s eternal purpose?

I would like to be able to say I’m as bold as Paul, as confident as Peter. Or as my maternal grandfather.

My grandpa Hess was bold in his faith. He never failed to tell others about his love for his Savior. He was, along with Paul, “not ashamed of the gospel” because he knew it is “the power of God for salvation to everyone who believes” (Rom. 1:16).

He always believed God had a purpose for his life, and he lived to fulfill that purpose.

This is my legacy. Yet how often do I fail to share the good news of salvation. How often do I lack confidence in God’s eternal purpose.

Yesterday, I neglected to write a devotional. Why? Because I was feeling sorry for myself. I’ve been feeling quite unwell lately, and I just hit a wall. While I didn’t lose faith in God, I questioned His purpose in my pain.

I allowed my momentary, temporary pain to cloud my vision of God’s faithfulness to me. I failed to remember that “… the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory that is to be revealed to us” (Rom. 8:18).

I certainly didn’t remain bold and confident.

And so I confessed my doubt and questioning, and my Lord God forgave me … yet again.

Today’s a new day, and I pray for a renewed boldness in faith and a fresh confidence in God’s eternal purpose, trusting His higher-than-mine ways (Is. 55:9).

I pray the same for you.

Acquire Wisdom (Eph. 3:8-10)

To me, the very least of all saints, this grace was given, to preach to the Gentiles the unfathomable riches of Christ, and to bring to light what is the administration of the mystery which for ages has been hidden in God who created all things; so that the manifold wisdom of God might now be made known through the church to the rulers and the authorities in the heavenly places.
(Ephesians 3:8-10, NASB)

Our God wants to grant us wisdom. Psalm 51:6 tells us

Behold, You desire truth in the innermost being,
And in the hidden part You will make me know wisdom.

Wisdom allows us to know more of God and His desires for us.

And how do we gain wisdom? It begins with a reverent awe of our Lord God:

The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom;
A good understanding have all those who do His commandments;
His praise endures forever (Ps. 111:10)

When you seek wisdom, God will give you understanding of Him and His will.

Wisdom is a gift, and when we read God’s word and meditate on its truths, we will know Him. As the psalmist wrote:

Acquire wisdom! Acquire understanding!
Do not forget nor turn away from the words of my mouth.
Do not forsake her, and she will guard you;
Love her, and she will watch over you.
The beginning of wisdom is: Acquire wisdom;
And with all your acquiring, get understanding (Prov. 4:5-7).

The Gift of God's Grace (3:1-7)

For this reason I, Paul, the prisoner of Christ Jesus for the sake of you Gentiles—if indeed you have heard of the stewardship of God's grace which was given to me for you; that by revelation there was made known to me the mystery, as I wrote before in brief. By referring to this, when you read you can understand my insight into the mystery of Christ, which in other generations was not made known to the sons of men, as it has now been revealed to His holy apostles and prophets in the Spirit; to be specific, that the Gentiles are fellow heirs and fellow members of the body, and fellow partakers of the promise in Christ Jesus through the gospel, of which I was made a minister, according to the gift of God's grace which was given to me according to the working of His power.
(Ephesians 3:1-7, NASB)

Anyone can receive the “gift of God’s grace.” Anyone. God doesn’t look at gender, race, cultural background or socio-economic status. He doesn’t care if you’re nine or ninety. He doesn’t restrict you because you’ve done shameful things.

All He wants is a repentant heart, a surrendered life.

Anyone who believes in God and accepts salvation through the death, burial, and resurrection of Jesus Christ—God the Son—will be saved (Acts 2:21). Jesus is the Giver of eternal life (John 3:16; 10:8-10).

You don’t have to work for it. You don’t have to hope your good outweighs your bad. You don’t have to wonder if what you did in a past life has brought you one step closer to heaven.

You just have to believe and receive.

I don’t know about you, but I’m so very grateful that God loves each and every one of us. I’m grateful that He had a plan for my salvation—a Gentile, middle-class American woman. He has the same plan for each one of us. What a good God He is!

Children of the King of kings (Eph. 2:19-22)

So then you are no longer strangers and aliens, but you are fellow citizens with the saints, and are of God's household, having been built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Christ Jesus Himself being the corner stone, in whom the whole building, being fitted together, is growing into a holy temple in the Lord, in whom you also are being built together into a dwelling of God in the Spirit.
(Ephesians 2:19-22, NASB)

It’s such an amazing thought: We are part of God’s household. We are sons and daughters of the King of kings too.

But, I especially love the thought of being God’s daughter. I love my earthly father, but we don’t have that strong of a relationship. For a while, I struggled with the idea of a loving father, one who cared for me no matter what.

When I finally recognized how much God loves me—unconditionally loves me—I understood what a Father really is.

He is gentle, compassionate, and caring. He protects His children and provides for them. He’s a refuge when things are difficult.

I can crawl on my Father’s lap when I’m sad. I can reach my hand to Him for His strength when I don’t have any of my own.

And I can’t wait until I see my Father face-to-face. What a moment that will be—in the arms of my Abba—my daddy.

Our Three-in-one God (Eph. 2:17-18)

AND HE CAME AND PREACHED PEACE TO YOU WHO WERE FAR AWAY, AND PEACE TO THOSE WHO WERE NEAR; for through Him we both have our access in one Spirit to the Father.
(Ephesians 2:17-18, NASB)

“Through Him [Christ] we both [Jews and Gentiles] have our access in one [Holy] Spirit to the Father …”

Do you see the significance of the words in this verse? We who believe in the God of the Bible believe in a three-in-one God. It’s one of those mysteries that we won’t fully understand this side of heaven.

But we believe in God the Father—Creator, Sustainer. We believe in God the Son, Jesus Christ—Redeemer, Savior. We believe in God the Holy Spirit—Intercessor, Indwelling Strength. One God acting in three persons.

And so I can go to my Father, my Abba, and praise Him for this amazing world He created and for His loving plan for my life (Jer. 29:11). I can thank my Lord Jesus for His incredible sacrifice that allowed for my salvation (Rom. 5:8). I can ask the Holy Spirit to speak to the Father through my groaning (Rom. 8:26).

I’m not sure exactly why God—the three-in-one God—is how He is … but I don’t have to know. I just have to trust in His word. And know He is everything I need.

The Giver of Peace (Eph. 2:14-16)

For He Himself is our peace, who made both groups into one and broke down the barrier of the dividing wall, by abolishing in His flesh the enmity, which is the Law of commandments contained in ordinances, so that in Himself He might make the two into one new man, thus establishing peace, and might reconcile them both in one body to God through the cross, by it having put to death the enmity.
(Ephesians 2:14-16, NASB)

Jesus provides reconciliation for everyone. Everyone. He “broke down the barrier of the dividing wall” between Jew and Gentile. He brought peace to all people.

And He’s still the Giver of peace. We can call the Father, Jehovah Shalom, the Lord is peace.

One of my favorite verses about peace comes from one of my favorite books. Philippians 4:6-7 commands us to:

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 in Christ Jesus.

I often speak on Jeremiah 29:11-13, and when I get to the part about God’s having a plan of peace for our lives, I say:

Do you know what this verse says to me? When I’m focusing on God, when I’m asking in His name, when I’m praying for His will, I can be assured of two things: I don’t need to be anxious for anything, and I will have peace—a peace that surpasses anything I could experience without God in my life, a peace that surpasses anything that I could get from my earthly relationships, from my job, from my church, from my family . . . from anything else. Isn’t that what you’re looking for? A peace that surpasses anything you’ve ever experienced? Ask Him. Ask Him now. Give your plans, your timelines, your dreams to Him. Trust Him to bring about that perfect will in your life. Then, and only then, will you have that peace. You will have that peace. I promise. More importantly, He promises.

Could you use a little peace in your life? First, you need to know the Giver of peace. And then just ask Him.

Hope in Christ (Eph. 2:11-13)

Therefore remember that formerly you, the Gentiles in the flesh, who are called "Uncircumcision" by the so-called "Circumcision," which is performed in the flesh by human hands—remember that you were at that time separate from Christ, excluded from the commonwealth of Israel, and strangers to the covenants of promise, having no hope and without God in the world. But now in Christ Jesus you who formerly were far off have been brought near by the blood of Christ.
(Ephesians 2:11-13, NASB)

Separate from Christ … strangers to the covenants of promise … having no hope … without God in the world …

What tragic words. Words that described each of us before we met Jesus and accepted the gift of salvation. And they describe millions of people throughout our world today.

I can’t imagine living without Jesus in my life. I don’t know how I made it through my twenty-year rebellion without him. Without the confidence that God has a purpose for my life, a purpose for the pain, a purpose for the trials, I’d be … well, I might just not be at all.

These days, my only real hope comes from my relationship with my Lord and Savior. It hurts my heart to see people I love who don’t have that hope. I wrote in my book, The Best Laid Hands:

Why in the world would I, would you, want to look forward to another day on this earth without hope that every new day would bring the peace that God promised? God does promise us a future filled with hope. A synonym for hope is “expectation.” God promised us a future full of expectation for His provision, for His comfort, for His protection, and, yes, for His peace. I often wonder how those who don’t know Jesus have hope. What is it they hope for? Is it wealth? Is it possessions? Is it a relationship? And when money or things or people let them down, then what do they hope for?

I’m ever-grateful for my Lord, who welcomed this prodigal back with open and loving arms. I’m ever-grateful that I am no longer separated from Christ, that I’m no longer a stranger to God’s covenant of promise, that I have hope, and that I am a beloved daughter of the Father.

Where are you? Are you separated from Christ, without real hope? God the Father is waiting patiently for you to open the door of your heart.

Saved Through Faith (Eph. 2:8-10)

For by grace you have been saved through faith; and that not of yourselves, it is the gift of God; not as a result of works, so that no one may boast. For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand so that we would walk in them.
(Ephesians 2:8-10, NASB)

If you ask people if there’s a heaven, most will answer yes. If you ask them how you get to heaven, many will answer, “Be good” or “Do good things.” And if the good outweighs the bad, you’ll get through those pearly gates.

While doing good things is certainly important, the Bible makes it very clear: Doing good things (what Paul calls “works”) doesn’t save us. Salvation comes only through faith. God’s grace—His unmerited favor—is offered to us freely, and when we accept His gift, we are saved from our sins and we can be confident of eternal life in heaven.

Good works are still important for those of who follow Christ, however. As James wrote,

My friends, what good is it to say you have faith, when you don't do anything to show that you really do have faith? Can that kind of faith save you? If you know someone who doesn't have any clothes or food, you shouldn't just say, "I hope all goes well for you. I hope you will be warm and have plenty to eat." What good is it to say this, unless you do something to help? Faith that doesn't lead us to do good deeds is all alone and dead! (2:14-17, CEV)

But make no mistake, works alone won’t get you to heaven. They won’t save you from your sins.

So if anyone asks you how to get to heaven, tell them the truth. Tell them the good news of salvation through faith. Maybe you’ll be the one who leads them to a relationship with their Savior!

God's Amazing Gifts (Eph. 2:4-7)

But God, being rich in mercy, because of His great love with which He loved us, even when we were dead in our transgressions, made us alive together with Christ (by grace you have been saved), and raised us up with Him, and seated us with Him in the heavenly places in Christ Jesus, so that in the ages to come He might show the surpassing riches of His grace in kindness toward us in Christ Jesus.
(Ephesians 2:4-7, NASB)

Yesterday, I wrote that if we’re not following God, we’re following His enemy. We’re “dead people walking.” But when we commit our lives to Christ, we are “made alive.” And it’s because of God’s love, His mercy, His grace, and His kindness.

God loves us so very much, and He freely showers us with mercy, grace, and kindness.

Mercy … “compassion or forbearance shown especially to an offender or to one subject to one's power.”

Grace … “unmerited divine assistance given humans for their regeneration or sanctification.”

Kindness … “the quality or state of being kind; favor; benevolence.”

We don’t deserve any of these precious gifts. We don’t deserve being “seated with Him in the heavenly places.” We don’t deserve His love.

But He does love us:

God loved the people of this world so much that he gave his only Son, so that everyone who has faith in him will have eternal life and never really die (John 3:16, CEV).

That’s how much He loves me. That’s how much He loves you.

Have you accepted God’s amazing gifts of love, mercy, grace, and kindness? He’s waiting.

(Definitions from Webster's Dictionary on-line)

Dead People Walking? (Eph. 2:1-3)

And you were dead in your trespasses and sins, in which you formerly walked according to the course of this world, according to the prince of the power of the air, of the spirit that is now working in the sons of disobedience. Among them we too all formerly lived in the lusts of our flesh, indulging the desires of the flesh and of the mind, and were by nature children of wrath, even as the rest.
(Ephesians 2:1-3, NASB)

I have no desire to be who I was. Although I asked Jesus into my heart when I was six years old, I allowed circumstances to take me away from my child-like faith. I made very deliberate, very poor choices, and I became a “dead woman walking.”

I reveled in what the world offered—partying, drinking, dancing ‘til dawn. I indulged the lusts and desires of my flesh. It was all about me.

As I think about it now, I realize I’d changed my alliance. Instead of serving the God of the universe, I was serving the “prince of the power of the air.” Just writing those words just about breaks my heart. It’s one thing to say I chose not to follow God’s leading; it’s quite another to say I chose to follow His enemy.

Jesus was so very right when He said we can’t serve two masters. And if we’re not serving God, we’re serving Satan.

No matter whom we are now, at one time—before we chose to follow Christ—we followed Satan. The question is, how obvious is it that we are serving God? If someone were to look at us as we’re standing in a very long line at the grocery store, would they know we’re Christians? If they read our Facebook page, would they see Christ shine through us? If they heard us joke with our friends, would they hear the love of God?

Would the world still see us as “dead people walking”? Or would they see something different. Something appealing. Something like Christ.

Jesus-Alive and Well (Eph. 1:20-23)

These are in accordance with the working of the strength of His might which He brought about in Christ, when He raised Him from the dead and seated Him at His right hand in the heavenly places, far above all rule and authority and power and dominion, and every name that is named, not only in this age but also in the one to come. And He put all things in subjection under His feet, and gave Him as head over all things to the church, which is His body, the fullness of Him who fills all in all.
(Ephesians 1:20-23, NASB)

Yesterday, we celebrated the resurrection of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. And today’s verses remind us that Jesus is—without doubt—alive and well!

Jesus is “seated … at [the Father’s] right hand in the heavenly places …” And one day, those of us who follow Christ will join Him in those heavenly places. Whether it’s through the end of our earthly lives or when Jesus returns to bring us into the very presence of God, we will spend eternity in worship and service to God—Father, Son, and Spirit.

Jesus is “far above all rule and authority and power and dominion …” I don’t know about you, but there are days when it seems like the “power and dominion” of this earth are winning. And yes, sometimes they’re winning the battles. This world continues to decline—more perversion, more corruption, more pain, more suffering. It can make me want to throw up my hands and cry out, “Jesus, take me now!” But we can be confident that even though some battles may be lost, our Lord and Savior has already won the war! (See John 16:33.)

Jesus is the “head over all things to the church …” We who follow Christ are part of the church, His very body. And I have to ask: Is this “body” healthy? Are we daily communing with our “Head”? Are we striving to know Him better through study and meditation of the word of God? Are we spending time with other members of the body, strengthening and challenging each other?

Jesus is definitely alive and well, and He’s ready and willing to work in the lives of those who choose to follow Him. Let’s praise Him for what He’s done for us, let’s follow the will of the Father, and let’s strive to be healthy members of Christ’s body.

He is Risen! (Easter Sunday)

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 20:15)

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 and the other disciples. 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 thing we don’t have to imagine?

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

Twenty-four Hours (Good Friday)

Today is Good Friday, the day we Christians solemnly recognize the sacrificial death of our Lord and Savior, and I just want to spend a few moments reflecting on what Jesus did for us. I’ve been thinking a lot of the unbelievable suffering and pain our Lord experienced—and not just physically. I’ve been thinking a lot about His last twenty-four hours …

In twenty-four hours …

Jesus washed the feet of His disciples … and then felt the agony of a spike through His own.

He celebrated Passover with twelve men who promised to follow Him no matter what … and then watched as every one of them deserted Him.

He sipped wine with His closest friends … and then vinegar from a sponge.

He reclined with the disciple He loved at His side … and then had a spear through that same side.

He prayed in the garden for deliverance from separation from His Father … and then agonized through that very separation.

Our Lord and Savior felt joy and sorrow, friendship and betrayal, comfort and suffering … all within twenty-four hours.

Just for us.

Each of us is given a certain number of twenty-four hours. Only God knows how many twenty-four hours we have. The question is, what are we going to do with each of our twenty-four hours?

He did so much for us. What are we going to do for Him?

The Hope of His Calling (Eph. 1:18-19)

I pray that the eyes of your heart may be enlightened, so that you will know what is the hope of His calling, what are the riches of the glory of His inheritance in the saints, and what is the surpassing greatness of His power toward us who believe.
(Ephesians 1:18-19, NASB)

God has a calling for each of His children.

Some are called to be preachers. Some are teachers. Some are encouragers.

Each of us has a place in His kingdom. Each and every one of us. No matter who you are, no matter what you can—or cannot do—God will use you.

It’s easy sometimes to think that, because we aren’t a preacher standing in front of a church, we’re just not that important. Or because we’re not a world-renowned evangelist leading hundreds and hundreds of people to know the Lord, we’re not impacting the kingdom.

But that’s not true; that’s not what the Bible tells us. The apostle Paul tells us that each gift is important—even critical—to the healthy function of the body of Christ:

But God composed the body, having given greater honor to that part which lacks it, that there should be no schism [division] in the body, but that the members should have the same care for one another. And if one member suffers, all the members suffer with it; or if one member is honored, all the members rejoice with it. (1 Corinthians 12:24b-26)

You can have hope in knowing that God will call you to use the gifts that He’s given you.

Do you believe that God has called you to serve Him? Do you know how He’s gifted you? If you do, use those gifts to serve and glorify Him. If you don’t, ask Him to reveal your gifts.
(from Hope: Devotions for Finding Hope in Every Situation © 2007 Sauni Rinehart)

Be Spiritually Healthy (Eph. 1:15-17)

For this reason I too, having heard of the faith in the Lord Jesus which exists among you and your love for all the saints, do not cease giving thanks for you, while making mention of you in my prayers; that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of glory, may give to you a spirit of wisdom and of revelation in the knowledge of Him.
(Ephesians 1:15-17, NASB)

Without proper nutrition, we cannot grow well physically. Malnourishment affects every part of the body.

It’s the same with our spiritual growth. If we’re not properly nourished in God’s word, we remain stagnant … and sometimes even decline.

Paul prayed that the Christians in Ephesus would have a “spirit of wisdom and of revelation in the knowledge of Him.”

Proverbs 2 outlines the importance of godly wisdom. It should be a “hidden treasure” that we search for diligently, and when we find it, we will “understand the fear of the LORD, And find the knowledge of God” (v. 5). Moreover:

… knowledge is pleasant to your soul,
Discretion will preserve you;
Understanding will keep you,
To deliver you from the way of evil … (vv. 10b-12)

And where do we gain knowledge? Through God’s word. Daily study and meditation is imperative.

Think of it this way: If you’re planning to be a doctor, you will be diligent in your study. You may even have to curtail other activities in order to have the time and energy to devote to learning. Right?

It’s the same as a follower of Christ. If you want to grow in Christ, if you want to have godly wisdom, if you want to truly know God, you need to spend time in the Bible. It shouldn’t be an afterthought. Rather, it should be the first priority of your day.

What are you doing that would be better spent gaining wisdom and knowledge of your Lord? Nourish yourself daily so that you will be spiritually healthy.

Never Alone (Eph. 1:13-14)

In Him, you also, after listening to the message of truth, the gospel of your salvation—having also believed, you were sealed in Him with the Holy Spirit of promise, who is given as a pledge of our inheritance, with a view to the redemption of God's own possession, to the praise of His glory.
(Ephesians 1:13-14, NASB)

Do you ever feel lonely?

I sometimes do. With my family spread throughout the U.S., with my friends busy with their own lives … sometimes, I feel quite alone.

But then I remember, I’m never alone. Never. I’m God’s beloved daughter, “sealed … with the Holy Spirit of promise …”

My trusty commentary says:

… the Holy Spirit, which is promised to them who believe on Christ Jesus, was given to you, and thus you were ascertained to be the children of God, for God has no child who is not a partaker of the Holy Ghost, and he who has this Spirit has God's seal that he belongs to the heavenly family (The Adam Clarke Commentary).

I am part of God’s family, and the Holy Spirit is within me.

Thank You, Lord God, for the reminder that I’m never alone. Thank You, Holy Spirit, for living in me.

In Him ... (Eph. 1:7-12)

In Him we have redemption through His blood, the forgiveness of our trespasses, according to the riches of His grace which He lavished on us. In all wisdom and insight He made known to us the mystery of His will, according to His kind intention which He purposed in Him with a view to an administration suitable to the fullness of the times, that is, the summing up of all things in Christ, things in the heavens and things on the earth. In Him also we have obtained an inheritance, having been predestined according to His purpose who works all things after the counsel of His will, to the end that we who were the first to hope in Christ would be to the praise of His glory.
(Ephesians 1:7-12 NASB)

In Him … In our Lord Jesus Christ … We have been given so much.

As we learned yesterday, God had a plan to make redemption and forgiveness available to both Jew and Gentile.

In God’s perfect plan, anyone who believes in Jesus as Lord and Savior and accepts the free gift of salvation, receives God’s grace and mercy. These verses remind us of other blessings:

We receive redemption. According to Webster’s Dictionary, Redeem means to “buy back,” to “release from blame or debt” or to “free from the consequences of sin.” Because of our Lord God’s love for us, we are “free from the consequences of sin.”

We know the “mystery of His will.” While God may not reveal all of His will to us, if we ask Him to direct our paths, if we surrender ourselves completely to Him, He will guide us.

We can be assured that He has a purpose for our lives. And sometimes, for me at least, this is the one that gets me up in the morning. If I didn’t believe God had a purpose for my pain, I’d never get out of bed. Days like today, when the pain level is almost off the charts, make me long for heaven, “... having a desire to depart and be with Christ, which is far better” (Phil. 1:23). But I know God isn’t finished with my earthly journey yet; He still has a purpose for me.

And so I crawl out of bed, praising Him that I can do so. I praise Him for redemption. I praise Him for His will for me. I praise Him for His purpose.

He is such a good God!

God's Grace for All People (Eph. 1:3-5)

Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us with every spiritual blessing in the heavenly places in Christ, just as He chose us in Him before the foundation of the world, that we would be holy and blameless before Him. In love, He predestined us to adoption as sons through Jesus Christ to Himself, according to the kind intention of His will, to the praise of the glory of His grace, which He freely bestowed on us in the Beloved.
(Ephesians 1:3-5, NASB)

We have been blessed beyond measure as children of God. No matter what we’ve done, no matter where we’ve been, no matter how poor the choices we’ve made, we can be "holy and blameless" in the eyes of our Father.

Praise our God!

Now we come to a more controversial part of Paul’s letter. God “chose us before the foundation of the world …” and “He predestined us to adoption as sons [and daughters]” …

Some argue that this is in direct contrast to the idea of free will—that we choose to follow Christ.

One of my favorite commentaries clears this misconception up for us. Until Paul began preaching to the Gentiles, the Jews:

considered themselves an elect or chosen people, and wished to monopolize the whole of the Divine love and beneficence. The apostle here shows that God had the Gentiles as much in the contemplation of his mercy and goodness as he had the Jews; and the blessings of the Gospel, now so freely dispensed to them, were the proof that God had thus chosen them, and that his end in giving them the Gospel was the same which he had in view by giving the law to the Jews ...

So when Paul wrote about predestination, he was writing about the Gentles as a people group, and thus used that word to “point out God's fixed purpose or predetermination to bestow on the Gentiles the blessing of the adoption of sons by Jesus Christ” (from The Adam Clarke Commentary http://www.studylight.org/com/acc/view.cgi?book=eph&chapter=001).

What this means is that God’s grace and mercy is available to all people. All people. But Jesus is still waiting patiently at the door of countless hearts. We still have to open the door. (See Rev. 3:20.)

Have you opened the door? Have you invited Jesus to be Lord of your life? Then and only then will you experience the “kind intention of His will.” His loving, gracious, merciful, righteous will.

Love Letters (Eph. 1:1-2)

Paul, an apostle of Christ Jesus by the will of God, to the saints who are at Ephesus and who are faithful in Christ Jesus: Grace to you and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.
(Ephesians 1:1-2, NASB)

Today, we begin a journey through another of my favorite books, Ephesians. I look forward to learning more about my Lord and Savior. I pray you’ll do the same.

Letter writing is a lost art. With texts and emails, FaceBook status updates and instant messaging, no one sits down to put pen to paper. And I think it’s sad.

Just think. If Paul had had access to today’s technology, he would have sent off his letters via cyberspace, and who knows where they would have ended up. Instead, he took quill and ink, and left for us his God-inspired words. Words that have impacted generation after generation.

That’s why I love to journal. Not that I expect my words to impact even one generation, but there’s something satisfying—and sometimes cathartic—about actually writing about what’s happening in my life. I journal about what God has taught me through His word. I meditate on verses that inspire me—or convict me. I write out prayers. I scribe love letters to God. And maybe someday, someone will read my “letters.” And be impacted in the smallest way.

Write a letter today. Put pen to paper. A real pen to real paper.

And pray as Paul did in his letter to the Ephesians—and to us: “Grace to you and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.”

Blessed Be the Lord (Ps. 72:17-19)

His name shall endure forever;
His name shall continue as long as the sun.
And men shall be blessed in Him;
All nations shall call Him blessed.
Blessed be the LORD God, the God of Israel,
Who only does wondrous things!
And blessed be His glorious name forever!
And let the whole earth be filled with His glory.
Amen and Amen.
(Psalm 72:17-19, NKJV)

I almost don’t need to include any commentary with these verses!

Our God is amazing, loving, gracious, merciful, good, just, and righteous.

He is the Alpha and Omega. He is all-knowing, everlasting, and with us at all times.

He is Creator, Savior, and Redeemer.

He provides. He protects. He strengthens. He heals.

He is the giver of peace, the lover of our souls, and the source of all good things.

And He is worthy of all glory, all honor, all worship, all praise.

Indeed, let the whole earth be filled with His glory.

Praise Him. Glorify Him. Worship Him.

With all your heart, soul, mind, and strength. He is worthy of nothing less.

Prayer and Praise (Ps. 72:15-16)

And He shall live;
And the gold of Sheba will be given to Him;
Prayer also will be made for Him continually,
And daily He shall be praised.
There will be an abundance of grain in the earth,
On the top of the mountains;
Its fruit shall wave like Lebanon;
And those of the city shall flourish like grass of the earth.
(Psalm 72:15-16, NKJV)

The apostle Paul wrote that we’re to “pray without ceasing” (1 Thess. 5:17). And King David wrote, “I will bless the LORD at all times; His praise shall continually be in my mouth” (Ps. 34:1).

We should be praying and praising all the time … but how often do we do either? We tend to pray when we need something. We praise Him when things are going well.

But think about how different your life would be if prayer and praise were the first things you did rather than afterthoughts? What if you were that focused on God and His will?

Would your thought-life be different? Would you speak differently? Would you act differently?

What if all of us who followed Christ did the same? How would the world perceive us?

More loving? More compassionate? More servant-hearted? More joyful? More peaceful?

This morning (or tomorrow morning if you’re reading this later in the day), commit to make God your true focus today. Pray throughout the day. Just thanking Him for what He’d doing in your life. Confessing every sin. Interceding for others.

And praise Him continually. For everything and anything.

See what a difference it might make.

Poverty vs. Riches (Ps. 72:12-14)

For He will deliver the needy when he cries,
The poor also, and him who has no helper.
He will spare the poor and needy,
And will save the souls of the needy.
He will redeem their life from oppression and violence;
And precious shall be their blood in His sight.
(Psalm 72:12-14, NKJV)

I’ve never been truly poor. Even when my mom was raising my siblings and me on her own, we never wanted for anything. Oh, we may have shopped for school clothes at thrift stores, and treats like ice cream were few and far between. But we had a roof over our heads. We had clothes and enough to eat.

I was poor in another way: spiritually. I spent too many years turning away from God and trying to find my own way. Trying to find peace. Trying to find joy. Trying to find contentment.

It was only when I cried out to God from the deepest part of me when I realized how very poor I really was. And He delivered me from my spiritual poverty.

He helped me. He saved my soul. And He redeemed my life.

What about you? Are you rich in the only thing that really matters? Are your spiritual coffers full of God’s promises?

Our earthly lives are just a blip on the radar in comparison with eternity. And any earthly riches we have will one day be meaningless.

Only our riches in God—our faith and how God has used us to impact His kingdom—will remain.

Praise and Service (Ps. 72:8-11)

He shall have dominion also from sea to sea,
And from the River to the ends of the earth.
Those who dwell in the wilderness will bow before Him,
And His enemies will lick the dust.
The kings of Tarshish and of the isles
Will bring presents;
The kings of Sheba and Seba
Will offer gifts.
Yes, all kings shall fall down before Him;
All nations shall serve Him.
(Psalm 72:8-11, NKJV)

As I wrote a couple of days ago, this psalm describes Solomon’s rule as well as the prophecy of the Messiah’s eventual reign. And again, I see more of the latter than the former.

Only our Lord Jesus will one day “have dominion … from sea to sea.” One day, everyone—kings and peasants—will fall down before Him. One day, all nations will recognize that He alone is Lord. And all of us who have chosen to accept His gift of salvation will serve Him.

The apostle Paul wrote something similar in one of my very favorite books, Philippians.

“ … God highly exalted Him, and bestowed on Him the name which is above every name, so that at the name of Jesus EVERY KNEE WILL BOW, of those who are in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and that every tongue will confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father” (2:9-11).

But we don’t have to wait until His return to fall down before Him. We can—and should—be on our knees praising and worshiping Him every day. We have the privilege of communing with Him, and we so often take that privilege for granted.

And we don’t have to wait until His return to serve Him. He invites us to participate in His plan for kingdom growth.

Do you fall to your knees daily? Do you ask the Lord to reveal how you can serve Him?

Don’t wait. Praise Him and serve Him today.

An Abundance of Peace (Ps. 72:5-7)

They shall fear You
As long as the sun and moon endure,
Throughout all generations.
He shall come down like rain upon the grass before mowing,
Like showers that water the earth.
In His days the righteous shall flourish,
And abundance of peace,
Until the moon is no more.
(Psalm 72:5-7, NKJV)

One day, there will be an “abundance of peace.” Sometimes that’s hard to believe even for those of us who are in relationship with the Prince of Peace (Is. 9:6).

If there’s one thing I really could use more of, it’s peace. Too many times my mind gets caught up with all the junk in the world, and I feel an unsettledness in my heart.

Earthquakes. Floods. Tsunamis.

People starving. People dying.

Hate. Persecution. War.

This world feels anything but peaceful these days.

Yet, one day, all we’ll feel is peace because we’ll be in the very presence of our Lord and Savior, our Prince of Peace.

No worry. No unsettled hearts. No anger. No anxiety.

Just peace. An “abundance of peace.”

Oh, Lord Jesus … Come quickly!

Peace and Justice (Ps. 72:3-4)

The mountains will bring peace to the people,
And the little hills, by righteousness.
He will bring justice to the poor of the people;
He will save the children of the needy,
And will break in pieces the oppressor.
(Psalm 72:3-4, NKJV)

This psalm is written about an earthly king, Solomon, but it also “anticipates Messiah’s reign as the culmination of the Davidic Covenant” (note from The MacArthur Study Bible).

During Solomon’s time, I don’t believe there was the peace and justice described in this psalm, and so I also anticipate Messiah’s reign when He returns.

I can’t wait!

One day, we will live in a “new heaven and a new earth” (Rev. 21:1) where we’ll experience eternal light as God Himself will “illumine” us (Rev. 22:5). And then some of the most encouraging, hope-filled promises:

“ … He will wipe away every tear from their eyes; and there will no longer be any death; there will no longer be any mourning, or crying, or pain; the first things have passed away” (Rev. 21:4).

The oppressor of this world God will “break in pieces” and justice will finally be served.

I can’t wait!

God's Righteousness (Ps. 72:1-2)

Give the king Your judgments, O God,
And Your righteousness to the king’s Son.
He will judge Your people with righteousness,
And Your poor with justice.
(Psalm 72:1-2; NKJV)

We are not deserving of God’s grace. We are not deserving of His mercy. We are not deserving of His love.

We are deserving of His judgment. We are deserving of His justice.

He, the all-Holy, all-righteous One, the Creator of all things, has every right to judge us for our many sins.

And yet, He does love us. He does offer grace and mercy. He does forgive us if we believe in Him and accept the gift of Jesus Christ’s sacrificial death, burial, and resurrection.

But make no mistake. Judgment will come to those who choose not to follow God. Eternal separation from Him will occur.

Jesus Himself said, “I am the way, and the truth, and the life; no one comes to the Father but through Me” (John 14:6, NASB).

Have you chosen the one way?

Reverent Awe for Our God (Ps. 111:10)

The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom;
A good understanding have all those who do His commandments.
His praise endures forever.
(Psalm 111:10, NKJV)

When we truly fear God, focusing on Him with reverent awe, we want what He wants. We seek His will. We find wisdom as we read His word—and we’re eager to do so.

As we read and meditate on His word to us, we understand more the desires of His heart. We understand that we’re to love and serve Him, with everything we are (Mark 12:30). We’re to seek first Him and His kingdom (Matt. 6:33). We’re to daily take up the cross (Luke 9:23). We’re to love others (Mark 12:31).

When we know God more intimately, we become more certain of His trustworthiness and faithfulness (Deut. 7:9). We can be confident in His everlasting love (31:3). We can rest assured in His constant presence (Deut. 31:6, 8).

We can rejoice that He listens to us (Jer. 29:12). He sees us (Gen. 16:13). He provides for us (Gen. 22:14). He heals us (Ex. 15:26).

And we can praise Him for all that He has been, all that He is, and all that He will be. Forever.

God's Redemption (Ps. 111:9)

He has sent redemption to His people;
He has commanded His covenant forever:
Holy and awesome is His name.
(Psalm 111:9, NKJV)

I’m refining a talk for a retreat I’m speaking at in May, and one of the sections is on our being redeemed. What an amazing blessing it is to know we’re “free from the consequences of sin” (Webster’s Dictionary)!

Even though Adam and Eve chose to follow their own path and thus sin entered the world, God loved His children so much, He “sent redemption” to us. He established a covenant with the people of Israel , and atonement came through annual sacrifice. Why was this sacrifice required? God is holy, and without His providing a plan of redemption, we would be forever separated from Him. But He loves us too much for that.

So throughout the Old Testament, atonement was for God’s chosen people. Oh, but then the New Covenant! In just a couple of weeks, we’re going to celebrate the culmination of God’s plan for the redemption of all mankind: the death, burial, and resurrection of God the Son, Jesus Christ.

That’s how much God loves us: “For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him will not perish but have eternal life” (John 3:16). And anyone who “calls on the name of the LORD will be saved” (Rom. 10:13).

What an amazing, awesome God we serve.

Praise Him today … and every day.

God's Truth (Ps. 111:6-8)

He has declared to His people the power of His works,
In giving them the heritage of the nations.
The works of His hands are verity and justice;
All His precepts are sure.
They stand fast forever and ever,
And are done in truth and uprightness.
(Psalm 111:6-8, NKJV)

“The works of His hands are verity …”

Verity isn’t a word we use much these days, but it has rich meaning:

“ the quality or state of being true or real ... a fundamental and inevitably true value ... the quality or state of being truthful or honest”

God is truth. He is real. He has infinite value.

“The works of His hands are … justice … “

God is just. He is holy and righteous.

And He inspired a written account of His precepts, His commandments, His assurances, His encouragements. His word, the Holy Bible, is “trust and righteousness,” and it will “stand fast forever and ever.”

Do you know this God? Do you know the one true, real, holy, righteous God? Read His word. Read the history of His people. Read about His plan of reconciliation for you. Read about His love—an everlasting love.

Just for you.

God's Truth (Ps. 111:6-8)

He has declared to His people the power of His works,
In giving them the heritage of the nations.
The works of His hands are verity and justice;
All His precepts are sure.
They stand fast forever and ever,
And are done in truth and uprightness.
(Psalm 111:6-8, NKJV)

“The works of His hands are verity …”

Verity isn’t a word we use much these days, but it has rich meaning:

“ the quality or state of being true or real ... a fundamental and inevitably true value ... the quality or state of being truthful or honest”

God is truth. He is real. He has infinite value.

“The works of His hands are … justice … “

God is just. He is holy and righteous.

And He inspired a written account of His precepts, His commandments, His assurances, His encouragements. His word, the Holy Bible, is “trust and righteousness,” and it will “stand fast forever and ever.”

Do you know this God? Do you know the one true, real, holy, righteous God? Read His word. Read the history of His people. Read about His plan of reconciliation for you. Read about His love—an everlasting love.

Just for you.

God's Grace (Ps. 111:4b-5)

The LORD is gracious and full of compassion.
He has given food to those who fear Him;
He will ever be mindful of His covenant.
(Psalm 111:4b-5, NKJV)

The greatest gift we receive as children of God is grace—unmerited favor.

We deserve nothing from God. Nothing.

I take that back. We do deserve something. We are sinful, fallen, rebellious creatures who really only deserve God’s wrath and justice. We deserve punishment. We deserve hell.

What we don’t deserve is forgiveness. We don’t deserve God’s forgetting our sin. We don’t deserve His grace.

“ … God demonstrates His own love toward us, in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us” (Rom. 5:8). What an amazing grace we receive because of God’s compassion and love for us! Even knowing how sinful and rebellious I would be, Jesus still died for me.

And He did the same for you.

Have you accepted the gift of God’s grace? If you have, don’t take it for granted. Thank Him, and determine to live in humble gratitude.

It’s the least any of us can do for the most He did for us.

God's Green Earth (Ps. 111:2-4a)

The works of the LORD are great,
Studied by all who have pleasure in them.
His work is honorable and glorious,
And His righteousness endures forever.
He has made His wonderful works to be remembered ...
(Psalm 111:2-4a, NKJV)

Yesterday as I was driving to do some errands, I was once again blessed by the sight of majestic snow-capped mountains in the distance. Later, I glanced out into my backyard and had a splash of joy from lovely flowers blooming brightly. Still later, I held an adorable, dimpled-smiling baby and my heart was touched.

I couldn’t help but be in awe of God’s creation. And I thought to myself, How can anyone truly deny the existence of—at the very least—an Intelligent Designer? To think that all of this came from some kind of big bang that led to plant life and animal life. To think humanity developed from a single cell.

It makes no sense to me, and frankly takes a lot of faith.

What does make sense is that a loving, creative, glorious God created this world and all that’s in it. And so much of what He created, He did so for our pleasure. Those flowers and snow-capped mountains and smiling babies … those things that bring us so much joy …

Just to make us smile …

I’m reminded of a line from a Point of Grace song, “God’s Green Earth”:

“On God’s Green Earth
If every color was the same
And every child had just one name
There’d be no beauty for each of us to claim …”

What an amazing, loving, creative God we serve!

Whole-hearted Praise (Ps. 111:1)

Praise the LORD!
I will praise the LORD with my whole heart,
In the assembly of the upright and in the congregation.
(Psalm 111:1, NKJV)

One of the greatest privileges we have as followers of Christ is praising our Lord. He—the Sovereign Creator of all things—wants to hear our voices. When we lift our voices in abandoned praise, He is well-pleased.

And we can praise Him at any time. As we rise in the morning. As we go through our days. As we lie down at night. Words of praise can and should fill our hearts—our whole hearts.

Praise Him for His grace, His mercy, and His love. Praise Him for His holiness, His justice, and His righteousness.

Praise Him for His attributes: He is our refuge and strength (Ps. 46:1). He is our Provider (Gen. 22:14). He is our Healer (Ex. 15:26). He is the Lord of Peace (Judges 6:24).

Praise Him through struggles, knowing He’s working everything out for good (Rom. 8:28). Praise Him for His blessings, knowing He’s taking care of you (1 Peter 5:7).

Sing songs of praise. Memorize and recite psalms that lift His name in worship. Stand in the congregation of other believers and lift your hands in reverence.

He is worthy of our praises—our whole-heart praises.

A Happy Ending (Est. 8:9-17)

Esther 8:9-17 (CEV)

And so our story ends.

A law is enacted that the Jews may defend themselves against any attacks. And throughout the region, there is great rejoicing as the people of Israel realize their God has secured for them the victory.

So what lessons can we learn from Esther’s story?

First, pride will usually bring its own downfall. Perhaps it won’t lead to hanging on a tower, but it will alienate others. It will breed discontent. It will sow a desire for wanting more—and even more.

Second, standing by our convictions may mean persecution (Matt. 5:10-11; Mark 13:13). This is especially pertinent today. People are careful—for the most part—to avoid ridiculing others for race, gender, or religious background. Except if you’re a Christian, that is. We’re fair game. If we proclaim something as biblically-determined sin, we’re intolerant. If we surrender our lives to God’s will, we’re weak. If we rely solely on Him, we need a crutch.

Third, God is in loving control—whether we sense His presence or not. He never leaves us or forsakes us (Heb. 13:5). Never. And even if we never mention His name, He is here.

Finally, our God is the victor. Even when it seems the enemy is winning the battle, God will win the war (John 16:33). And if we follow Him, trusting Him in all circumstance, we too will be victorious.

We can learn a lot from Esther’s story. Pray for God to reveal His lesson for you.

And may the God of Esther and Mordecai bless and keep you. Amen.