Prayer and Praise (James 5:13-15)

Is anyone among you suffering? Then he must pray. Is anyone cheerful? He is to sing praises. Is anyone among you sick? Then he must call for the elders of the church and they are to pray over him, anointing him with oil in the name of the Lord; and the prayer offered in faith will restore the one who is sick, and the Lord will raise him up, and if he has committed sins, they will be forgiven him.
(James 5:13-15, NASB)

I think most of us would agree with the first part of today’s verses. We can pray when we’re suffering. We can praise when we’re cheerful.

We have an amazing privilege as children of God. We can talk to Him. Doesn’t that amaze you? The Sovereign Creator, the Lord of all, our heavenly Father, wants to hear our voices. That just astounds me. Who in the world am I that God would want to hear my words? I don’t understand it, but I’m grateful beyond words. Just listen to your Father: "Call to Me, and I will answer you, and show you great and mighty things, which you do not know" (Jeremiah 33:3). (excerpted from The Best Laid Plans © 2005 Sauni Rinehart)

Yes, we can speak to God when we’re hurting, when we’re confused, when we’re celebrating. And He listens.

Not only does He listen, but He delights in hearing our voices. Proverbs 15:8 tells us that “The sacrifice of the wicked is an abomination to the LORD, But the prayer of the upright is His delight.”

But then James also tells us that when we’re sick, we can call on the elders to pray over us and anoint us with oil, and we’ll be restored. And indeed that sometimes happens. We have to remember, however, that all prayer must be said with the sincere request for God’s will. Just as Jesus prayed in the garden (Luke 22:42). Sometimes, beyond our understanding, God's will is not to heal here on earth. Sometimes, His answer is to give us strength to endure the pain. And sometimes, His will is what I call eternal healing ... the privilege of entering His presence.

Prayer is indeed a privilege and something we should never take for granted.

God wants to hear our prayers. He desires to give us joy. He longs to provide for us. But He also knows what’s best for us. Again, He knows the plan He has for us. All we need to do is ask for His will and trust in that will. And He will answer. (excerpted from The Best Laid Plans © 2005 Sauni Rinehart)

Let Your Yes Be Yes (James 5:12)

But above all, my brethren, do not swear, either by heaven or by earth or with any other oath; but your yes is to be yes, and your no, no, so that you may not fall under judgment.
(James 5:12, NASB)

This is one of those verses of which I’m rather unsure, so I visited a couple of commentaries.

The Adam Clarke Commentary offered some illumination: Apparently, the Jews were “notoriously guilty of common swearing ... allowed on all hands; and that swearing by heaven, earth, Jerusalem, the temple, the altar, different parts of the body, was not considered by them as binding oaths, has been sufficiently proved.”

So instead of swearing by something, just do what you say you’re going to do.

Don’t say “yes” and then turn around and do “no.” To do so would be hypocritical (a couple of the commentaries I read said that “judgment” could be translated as “hypocrisy”).

How many times have you said you're going to do something, and did the opposite? Or how often have you promised not to do something and done it anyway?

Be true to your word. And be true to yourself.

The Blessing of Endurance (James 5:9-11)

Do not complain, brethren, against one another, so that you yourselves may not be judged; behold, the Judge is standing right at the door. As an example, brethren, of suffering and patience, take the prophets who spoke in the name of the Lord. We count those blessed who endured. You have heard of the endurance of Job and have seen the outcome of the Lord’s dealings, that the Lord is full of compassion and is merciful.
(James 5:9-11, NASB)

Endurance.

Webster’s Dictionary defines it as “the ability to withstand hardship or adversity; especially : the ability to sustain a prolonged stressful effort or activity.” James refers to Job, who is certainly an example of one who withstood hardship or adversity.

And he received God’s blessings after he endured (Job 42:10-13).

Many of us have had our own “Job moments.” Perhaps you’ve lost a child. Or a home. Or your health. You’ve experienced tragedy and hardship and suffering. Maybe you are still.

And too often, instead of enduring, we try to cover up our pain through alcohol or drugs or rejection of God.

I’ve mentioned in previous blogs that I covered my own suffering through the latter. I turned my back on God whom I blamed for allowing sexual abuse and emotional pain. I didn’t endure.

After I made my way back to God and recognized His compassion and mercy, I experienced new suffering—I continue to suffer today.

But now I’ve learned to endure because I know God is compassionate and merciful. I know He loves me through the pain. I know He gives me strength through my weakness (2 Cor. 12:9). I know I can crawl on His lap and cry out to my Abba.

And one day, after I’ve endured all this world throws at me, I will stand pain-free in the presence of my Lord God (Rev. 21:4). And I pray He’ll smile at me and say, “Well done, my daughter. Well done.” (See Matt. 25:14-30.)

Be Patient for Christ's Return (James 5:7-8)

Therefore be patient, brethren, until the coming of the Lord. The farmer waits for the precious produce of the soil, being patient about it, until it gets the early and late rains. You too be patient; strengthen your hearts, for the coming of the Lord is near.
(James 5:7-8, NASB)

Like many of you, patience is one of the “fruit of the Spirit” that I struggle with the most. Fortunately, the older I get, the easier it is to wait.

But the one thing that I feel really impatient about? Christ’s return.

I really can’t wait … although I know I must.

When I went through Philippians not too long ago, I talked a lot about this when I came to verses 21 and 23 in chapter 1. I believe with all I am that being with Christ is far better than being here on earth.

This earth and all it holds is nothing compared to being in the very presence of my Lord and Savior. Being free from this pain-filled body. Being free from wars and rumors of wars. Being free from natural disasters that maim and destroy.

So, I read words like these from James that I’m to be “patient … until the coming of the Lord,” and I think, "I don't want to wait." But I know he’s right. My impatience isn't going to hasten Christ's return.

I must patiently wait.

But James reminds me of something else I can do as I wait. I can strengthen my heart. I can grow more like Christ as I study and meditate on the word of God. I can spend time in prayer seeking the Father’s will. I can share the truth of the gospel.

And I can be assured that the “coming of the Lord is near” … nearer than it has ever been.

Oh, Lord Jesus, come quickly! But I’ll patiently wait for You and strengthen my heart as I wait.

The Perils of Riches (James 5:1-6)

Come now, you rich, weep and howl for your miseries which are coming upon you. Your riches have rotted and your garments have become moth-eaten. Your gold and your silver have rusted; and their rust will be a witness against you and will consume your flesh like fire. It is in the last days that you have stored up your treasure! Behold, the pay of the laborers who mowed your fields, and which has been withheld by you, cries out against you; and the outcry of those who did the harvesting has reached the ears of the Lord of Sabaoth. You have lived luxuriously on the earth and led a life of wanton pleasure; you have fattened your hearts in a day of slaughter. You have condemned and put to death the righteous man; he does not resist you. (James 5:1-6, NASB)

Our society seems to revere the rich and famous. We read about their escapades in the latest tabloid. We stand in awe of their homes, cars, and jewels. Even “mainstream” media seems obsessed with them. I can’t count how often the early morning news program I watch focuses on some celebrity’s multi-million dollar wedding or some star’s latest brush with the law.

Some day, however, all the houses, cars, and jewels will mean nothing. The exotic vacations. The wild parties.

None of it will matter.

When Jesus Christ returns to set up the new heaven and the new earth, this world and all that’s in it will be no more. (See Revelation 21:1.)

The only thing that will matter then is whether or not a person has put her faith in Christ. Riches themselves aren't really the issue. Commitment to Christ is. God doesn’t condemn riches. But if you’ve been blessed with money, use what you’ve been blessed with to serve others. Provide for the “least of these” (Matthew 25:35-40).

Don’t live wantonly, focusing only on your money and what it can do for you. Don’t risk the “upcoming misery” of eternity separated from God … because you’ll also be separated from your riches.

You really can’t take it with you.

Plan Within God's Will (James 4:13-17)

Come now, you who say, “Today or tomorrow we will go to such and such a city, and spend a year there and engage in business and make a profit.” Yet you do not know what your life will be like tomorrow. You are just a vapor that appears for a little while and then vanishes away. Instead, you ought to say, “If the Lord wills, we will live and also do this or that.” But as it is, you boast in your arrogance; all such boasting is evil. Therefore, to one who knows the right thing to do and does not do it, to him it is sin.
(James 4:13-17, NASB)

I have an entire weekend retreat talk centered around knowing God’s plan for our lives. I do believe God will reveal His plan—sometimes. Yet I do believe He expects us to do a bit of planning ourselves.

It’s a fine balance. Trusting God and planning our futures.

I’m a big-time planner. I like to know what I need to do and where I need to be—often months ahead. But I do my planning with a major caveat: I pray for God’s will in all things.

In my book, The Best Laid Plans, I quoted Bill Russell:

Any plan has to be submitted with the qualifier, “Lord willing.” Still, although God may alter any plan through dramatic circumstance or counsel, Jesus said, “No man builds a tower without first sitting down and calculating the cost” (Luke 14:28). While we realize that God is in control, he does expect us to make provisions for the future (When God Builds a Church © 2000, p. 89).

We know this. We know we should say, “Not my will, but Yours be done.”

But have you ever thought that when you don’t ask for God’s will—sincerely ask for it—you’re being arrogant? Even more, you’re sinning?

When you commit your life to the Lord, you’ve given Him back what’s already His. Plan your life. But put everything in God’s loving hand. Ask Him to do His will in all things. And trust that His plan is perfect for you (Jeremiah 29:11).

Don't Judge (James 4:11-12)

Do not speak against one another, brethren. He who speaks against a brother or judges his brother, speaks against the law and judges the law; but if you judge the law, you are not a doer of the law but a judge of it. There is only one Lawgiver and Judge, the One who is able to save and to destroy; but who are you who judge your neighbor?
(James 4:11-12, NASB)

We are told in these verses and others in God’s word that we are not to judge others. It is not our job. Yet how often do we point fingers at others? We judge their behavior. We judge their choices.

But the Bible makes it clear: We are not to judge others.

That’s God’s job.

“There is only one Lawgiver and Judge, the One who is able to save and to destroy …” God and He alone has the right to judge because He and He alone is holy and righteous. He is perfect and without sin.

We are not—definitely not—holy and righteous. Oh no. We are sinful and fleshly. We should be focused on cleaning up our own acts rather than telling others how they should clean up their own.

So next time you’re tempted to judge someone else, let it go. Let the Judge of all of us do His job. And you do your job of becoming more like Christ.

Christian Living (James 4:7-10)

Submit therefore to God. Resist the devil and he will flee from you. Draw near to God and He will draw near to you. Cleanse your hands, you sinners; and purify your hearts, you double-minded. Be miserable and mourn and weep; let your laughter be turned into mourning and your joy to gloom. Humble yourselves in the presence of the Lord, and He will exalt you.
(James 4:7-10, NASB)

James gives us a check list of things we should do as Christ-followers. We should:

Submit to God. This means giving everything we are and everything we have to Him. Every day. It all belongs to Him anyway, but sometimes we hold back a little. A habit. A desire. A relationship. Give it all to Him.

Resist the devil. Don’t just hope he’ll go away. Resist him. Combat his wiles with scripture. Defy his presence.

Draw near to God. Seek Him constantly. Pray. Read His word. Ask Him to reveal His will.

Cleanse your hands and purify your heart. Figuratively cleanse yourself of all sin by confessing everything that takes your mind and heart off of God.

Be miserable … Okay, I kind of hit a roadblock with this one. Everything up to this I totally understand. But we’re to be miserable and mourn and weep? Why? So I went to one of my trusted commentaries. According to the Adam Clarke Commentary,

“… many of those to whom St. James addressed this epistle had lived a very irregular and dissolute life. He had already spoken of their lust, and pleasures, and he had called them adulterers and adulteresses; and perhaps they were so in the grossest sense of the words. He speaks here of their laughter and their joy; and all the terms taken together show that a dissolute life is intended.”

In other words, if you’re living in the joy and laughter of sin, you need to feel the misery and sadness of your sin, and you need to repent.

And finally, humble yourself. God exalts (other translations say “lifts up”) the humble—the truly humble in heart. It’s not necessarily that He’ll give you all the desires of your heart or lift you to a place of prominent. Rather, He’ll lift you from the depths of your sin and cloth you in pure garments.

Are there any of these you need to work on? Pray for God to work through you to be more like Christ.

Cheating God (James 4:4-6)

You adulteresses, do you not know that friendship with the world is hostility toward God? Therefore whoever wishes to be a friend of the world makes himself an enemy of God. Or do you think that the Scripture speaks to no purpose: “He jealously desires the Spirit which He has made to dwell in us”? But He gives a greater grace. Therefore it says, “GOD IS OPPOSED TO THE PROUD, BUT GIVES GRACE TO THE HUMBLE.”
(James 4:4-6, NASB)

James has been writing about how the tongue can destroy and how conflict between believers can harm and how we don’t receive answers to prayer because of wrong motives.

Now he really lays it on the line.

He accuses those of us who have “friendship with the world” as adulteresses. And rightfully so. The church, the body of Christ, is described as the bride of Christ (Revelation 19:7; 21:2, 9; 22:17). And what do we call a bride who cheats on her bridegroom?

So if we cheat on the Lord by being friends with the world, we are rightly called adulteresses. We are enemies of God.

Wow.

I don’t know about you, but that thought makes me cringe. I in no way want to be God’s enemy. But I see myself often spending too much time watching TV shows that don’t honor God or reading books that don’t nurture my faith. Time that I should be spending with my Bridegroom.

But there is hope. God’s grace. If we humble ourselves and come to Him, surrendering our lives to Him, He showers us with His grace. He forgives our sins. And He invites us to one day attend the marriage feast.

When you one day stand before God’s throne, whose friend do you want to be?

Asking With Right Motives (James 4:1-3)

What is the source of quarrels and conflicts among you? Is not the source your pleasures that wage war in your members? You lust and do not have; so you commit murder. You are envious and cannot obtain; so you fight and quarrel. You do not have because you do not ask. You ask and do not receive, because you ask with wrong motives, so that you may spend it on your pleasures.
(James 4:1-3, NASB)

We truly are fleshly, fallen creatures, and James perfectly captures the state of our hearts. We want what we want. And many of us do pretty much anything in order to get what we want.

Not too long ago I read an article written by a “ghostwriter.” Most people know that a ghostwriter writes another person’s story and that other person gets the credit. This particular person gets paid by graduate students to write their papers for them. They then turn them in to get credit. Sad, isn’t it? But what was really tragic? Many of his “customers” are seminary students …

Truly sad …

Then those of us who selfishly seek what we want complain when God doesn’t answer our prayers. Perhaps we should memorize verse three of today’s passage. We don’t receive answers to our prayers because we’re asking with “wrong motives.” Instead of praying for God’s will, no matter what that might be, we pray for our will.

We want a better-paying job, not so we can better support our families or give more to God’s word, but so we can buy a bigger house, a luxury car, and a summer cottage.

We pray for a change of heart in our spouse, instead of praying for a change in our own hearts.

God does answer prayer. Always. But He knows our motives. He knows our selfishness. And He’s going to say “no” when what we’re asking for isn’t within His will.

When you pray today, ask Him for whatever you want. However, make sure you’re asking with right motives. And make sure you’re asking for His will—over and above your wants.

Godly Wisdom (James 3:14-18)

But if you have bitter jealousy and selfish ambition in your heart, do not be arrogant and so lie against the truth. This wisdom is not that which comes down from above, but is earthly, natural, demonic. For where jealousy and selfish ambition exist, there is disorder and every evil thing. But the wisdom from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, reasonable, full of mercy and good fruits, unwavering, without hypocrisy. And the seed whose fruit is righteousness is sown in peace by those who make peace.
(James 3:14-18, NASB)

The world has wisdom of its own. It is a wisdom that says, “I know everything and am in total control. Therefore, I don’t need a god.” The worldly wise are selfish, looking out only for themselves.

That’s not the wisdom the Bible talks about. Godly wisdom is selfless. Those of us who follow Christ and seek the Father’s will grow to know our triune God more intimately through His word.

We learn about loving our neighbors as ourselves (Mark 12:31). We learn about godly humility and meekness (Matthew 23:12; Philippians 2:5-9). We learn about taking up our cross (Luke 14:27). We learn about the fruit of the Spirit manifested in each of us (Galatians 5:22-23).

That wisdom is so very different than the “intellect” the world sees as wisdom. It has nothing to do with book knowledge or degrees or facts. It has everything to do with a pure heart.

How wise are you? Are you so busy trying to attain worldly wisdom that you neglect to seek wisdom that will last through eternity?

Seek God’s wisdom, a wisdom that is pure and gentle and merciful. A wisdom that loves and serves both God and those around you.

The Gentleness of Wisdom (James 3:13)

Who among you is wise and understanding? Let him show by his good behavior his deeds in the gentleness of wisdom.
(James 3:13, NASB)

I usually feel far from “wise and understanding.” As I continue growing in my faith and learn more about who God is, I realize how little I really know.

But I do realize this: True wisdom equals humility. It equals gentleness. Proverbs 11:2 says, “When pride comes, then comes dishonor, But with the humble is wisdom.”

And how do we gain wisdom? First, we need to know and honor the one true God: “The fear of the LORD is the beginning of knowledge; Fools despise wisdom and instruction” (Proverbs 1:7). Then we need to spend time in His word.

God gave us a written document through which He teaches, exhorts, admonishes, convicts, encourages … When I speak I often say that He didn’t have to give us His word. He could have just let us “wing it.” However, He loves us so much, He inspired writers over centuries to put to paper what He wants us to know about the history of His people, about what lies ahead of us, and how He wants us to live. Most importantly, He gave us exactly what we need to know to find salvation and how to live in relationship with Him.

That’s how we acquire wisdom. And when we come to know Him more through His word, when we realize how much He’s done for us, we serve Him with gratitude and humility.

And the gentleness and humility others see in us may very well attract them and lead them to the Giver of wisdom.

Taming the Tongue (James 3:5b-12)

See how great a forest is set aflame by such a small fire! And the tongue is a fire, the very world of iniquity; the tongue is set among our members as that which defiles the entire body, and sets on fire the course of our life, and is set on fire by hell. For every species of beasts and birds, of reptiles and creatures of the sea, is tamed and has been tamed by the human race. But no one can tame the tongue; it is a restless evil and full of deadly poison. With it we bless our Lord and Father, and with it we curse men, who have been made in the likeness of God; from the same mouth come both blessing and cursing. My brethren, these things ought not to be this way. Does a fountain send out from the same opening both fresh and bitter water? Can a fig tree, my brethren, produce olives, or a vine produce figs? Nor can salt water produce fresh.
(James 3:5b-12, NASB)

As I was beginning to write today’s devotional, I really struggled with what to say. Even after I prayed and started several times, I kept hitting the delete button.

I feel very strongly about the fact that many Christians “bless our Lord and Father, and … curse men” with the very same tongue. “… from the same mouth come both blessing and cursing.” I so agree with James when he writes, “… these things ought not to be this way.”

Things as seemingly simple as writing “OMG” on a Facebook page are so not right … And the proliferation of vulgarities …

I know I sound old-fashioned, but when did it become okay to use really vulgar words in everyday language? What makes us different from everyone else when we’re using the same curses they do?

I think the problem is these words have become part of the world’s lexicon. You hear and read them everywhere.

But think about it. Jesus is with you all the time. He hears your words and knows your thoughts. What would He want to hear?

Think about it.

Avoid Stumbling (James 2:1-5a)

Let not many of you become teachers, my brethren, knowing that as such we will incur a stricter judgment. For we all stumble in many ways. If anyone does not stumble in what he says, he is a perfect man, able to bridle the whole body as well. Now if we put the bits into the horses’ mouths so that they will obey us, we direct their entire body as well. Look at the ships also, though they are so great and are driven by strong winds, are still directed by a very small rudder wherever the inclination of the pilot desires. So also the tongue is a small part of the body, and yet it boasts of great things.
(James 3:1-5a, NASB)

“… we all stumble in many ways.” Isn’t that the truth?

None of us is able to “bridle the whole body.” None of us is perfect. We will stumble.

The question is, what do we do when we stumble? Do we throw our hands up in defeat and continue in our sin? Do we figure we’ve failed so badly there’s no hope?

If you have never accepted the gift of salvation of your sins, all you need to do is confess your need for salvation and submit your life to the Lord Jesus Christ. Then find a Bible-teaching church. Get a Bible and read it every day. Pray for guidance and help from the Holy Spirit.

But if you’re already a Christ-follower, don’t ever give up. Know that you will stumble, but the more you grow in your faith, the more you become like Christ, the less you’ll stumble. And when you do, confess your failings and commit to avoiding that sin in the future. Keep away from anything that might make you stumble—that means you may have to give up certain friends or seeing certain movies or going certain places.

Because, yes, you may stumble. But you have choices to make that might keep you from stumbling again.

An Example of Faith and Works (James 2:24)

You see that a man is justified by works and not by faith alone. In the same way, was not Rahab the harlot also justified by works when she received the messengers and sent them out by another way? For just as the body without the spirit is dead, so also faith without works is dead.
(James 2:24, NASB)

Rahab is an unlikely example of faith. She was, indeed, a harlot, a prostitute. For reasons we’ll never know, she made her living by giving her body away.

But God redeems those who seek Him.

Rahab lived in Jericho, a city that God had promised to His people. But the city was surrounded by high walls, and God’s people needed to see more of the city. So two spies snuck into the city and found shelter with Rahab. And this woman—who was not a member of God’s chosen people—hid the spies and saved their lives.

Somehow, though, she knew of their God:

“I know that the LORD has given you the land … Now therefore, please swear to me by the LORD, since I have dealt kindly with you, that you also will deal kindly with my father’s household, and give me a pledge of truth, and spare my father and my mother and my brothers and my sisters, with all who belong to them, and deliver our lives from death” (Joshua 2:9, 12-13).

She knew this God whom she didn’t serve was the one true God. And she knew He could save and protect His people—and those who helped His people.

She had faith, and she demonstrated that faith through her actions.

And Rabab—that unlikely example of faith—became the mother of Boaz, who married Ruth. And is in the line to Joseph … the earthly father of Jesus.

When we claim to have faith, our heart’s desire should be to show that faith through serving others. And when people see faith in action, they’ll be attracted to the One in whom we’ve placed our faith.

More Than Belief (James 2:18-23)

But someone may well say, “You have faith and I have works; show me your faith without the works, and I will show you my faith by my works.” You believe that God is one. You do well; the demons also believe, and shudder. But are you willing to recognize, you foolish fellow, that faith without works is useless? Was not Abraham our father justified by works when he offered up Isaac his son on the altar? You see that faith was working with his works, and as a result of the works, faith was perfected; and the Scripture was fulfilled which says, “AND ABRAHAM BELIEVED GOD, AND IT WAS RECKONED TO HIM AS RIGHTEOUSNESS,” and he was called the friend of God.
(James 2:18-23, NASB)

Countless people say they believe in God, and because of that belief, they feel they’re headed to heaven. But James makes a chilling assertion here: “… the demons also believe, and shudder.” Satan and his minions certainly believe that God exists, but if you’ve read Revelations, you know their fate (Rev. 19:20; 20:10, 15).

Again, as we saw yesterday, faith—true faith—demonstrates itself in more than just lip-service. True faith shows itself through works of service, works of obedience.

Then James gives us a marvelous illustration of amazing obedience. Every time I read about Abraham’s willingness to sacrifice Isaac, I’m humbled. He was so willing to do anything God asked him to do, trusting that his Jehovah would work everything out for good.

And because of his obedience, Abraham was called a “friend of God.”

Isn’t that what your heart desires? To be a friend of God?

Believe in Him, certainly. But don’t stop there. Commit your life to Him. Submit everything to Him. Obey His every command. Seek His will. And serve Him by doing what He asks.

Faith vs. Works (James 2:14-17)

What use is it, my brethren, if someone says he has faith but he has no works? Can that faith save him? If a brother or sister is without clothing and in need of daily food, and one of you says to them, “Go in peace, be warmed and be filled,” and yet you do not give them what is necessary for their body, what use is that? Even so faith, if it has no works, is dead, being by itself.
(James 2:14-17, NASB)

The next couple of days are going to cover some rather controversial verses.

James makes quite an argument about faith vs. works, and some say he contradicts other passages that speak to our being saved by faith in Jesus Christ (See Romans 3:21-28; 5:1-3; Eph. 2:8-9.) Salvation does come through faith in Jesus Christ and the belief and acceptance of His death, burial, and resurrection.

But James adds a dimension: The person who has true faith in Jesus, who has committed himself to Him, demonstrates that faith through service. Just as Jesus Himself served.

This means taking action against those who exploit others. I have friends who are active in the fight against sex trafficking. They are the hands and feet of Jesus as they go into the bowels of some cities to serve those forced into prostitution.

This also mean serving the “least of these” (Matt.25:34-46). Helping out at a soup kitchen. Volunteering at a local prison. Giving to organizations that provide food and shelter for the disenfranchised.

I believe a person is saved through faith. Forgiveness of sins and promise of eternal life comes through faith in Jesus Christ. But if she stops there, her faith doesn’t grow. If she’s not demonstrating her faith through service, her faith can become stagnant.

Don’t let your faith “die.” Go out and do something. Let the world see Jesus Christ through what you do to serve others.

God's Mercy (James 2:8-13)

If, however, you are fulfilling the royal law according to the Scripture, “YOU SHALL LOVE YOUR NEIGHBOR AS YOURSELF,” you are doing well. But if you show partiality, you are committing sin and are convicted by the law as transgressors. For whoever keeps the whole law and yet stumbles in one point, he has become guilty of all. For He who said, “DO NOT COMMIT ADULTERY,” also said, “DO NOT COMMIT MURDER.” Now if you do not commit adultery, but do commit murder, you have become a transgressor of the law. So speak and so act as those who are to be judged by the law of liberty. For judgment will be merciless to one who has shown no mercy; mercy triumphs over judgment.
(James 2:8-13, NASB)

Many belief systems or religions believe that if your good outweighs your bad, you’ll get to heaven or some kind of an eternal realm of peace or nirvana. What that percentage of good over bad no one quite knows.

The Bible tells us something very different. "All have sinned and fall short of God’s glory" (Rom. 3:23). "There is none righteous" (Romans 3:10). Or as James puts it, if we “stumble in one point, we have become guilty of all.” And each of us has stumbled … at least once.

We are all deserving of judgment, and if it were up to us, we wouldn’t get anywhere near heaven. But God is merciful. He, through His love and grace, offers freedom from our sin. He offers liberty. He offers forgiveness. To everyone.

“For God so loved the world that He gave His one and only Son, that whoever believes in Him will have eternal life” (John 3:16). “If we confess our sin, He is faithful and just to forgive our sins and cleanse us from all unrighteousness” (1 John 1:9).

We are sinners. We do deserve judgment. We do deserve eternal separation from our God. We don’t deserve mercy. We don’t deserve grace.

But when we accept God’s gift of salvation, we don’t receive judgment or eternal separation from God. Instead, we receive His mercy and grace.

What an amazing God we serve!

Don't Play Favorites (James 2:1-7)

My brethren, do not hold your faith in our glorious Lord Jesus Christ with an attitude of personal favoritism. For if a man comes into your assembly with a gold ring and dressed in fine clothes, and there also comes in a poor man in dirty clothes, and you pay special attention to the one who is wearing the fine clothes, and say, “You sit here in a good place,” and you say to the poor man, “You stand over there, or sit down by my footstool,” have you not made distinctions among yourselves, and become judges with evil motives? Listen, my beloved brethren: did not God choose the poor of this world to be rich in faith and heirs of the kingdom which He promised to those who love Him? But you have dishonored the poor man. Is it not the rich who oppress you and personally drag you into court? Do they not blaspheme the fair name by which you have been called?
(James 2:1-7, NASB)

In God’s eyes, everyone is equal. Gender. Age. Cultural background. Wealth. He doesn’t care about any of that. He just cares about the heart.

But us? Not so much.

We look at the outside. We admire the beautiful. The young. We want to be around those who are like us.

And we especially hold those with all the “stuff” in high esteem. For some reason, we think those with lots of money are somehow more important. We’d rather hang out with the rich and famous than spend time in the soup kitchen.

But think about it. Where do you often find the most faithful? In the palaces? No, you find them in the slums. Friends of mine who have had the privilege of going on short or long term missions to “third world” countries have told stories of the generosity of the “least of these.” And of their love for Jesus. They live with nothing, but they praise the name of their Lord and Savior.

These are the people we should hold in highest esteem. These are the people whose faith we should emulate.

Worthy Religion (James 1:26-27)

If anyone thinks himself to be religious, and yet does not bridle his tongue but deceives his own heart, this man’s religion is worthless. Pure and undefiled religion in the sight of our God and Father is this: to visit orphans and widows in their distress, and to keep oneself unstained by the world.
(James 1:26-27, NASB)

Statistics would tell us that there are many, many “religious” people in our world. They are “spiritual.” They believe in a “higher power.” Some even call themselves Christians.

I can’t speak to those of other religions or belief systems. But I can speak to those who call themselves Christians yet don’t live anything like Christ. With their words and actions, they show hate and intolerance and anger. They put down others. They despise the sin and the sinner.

Tragically, this is often all the world sees of so-called Christians. And indeed Christianity that is not like Christ is “worthless.”

You know what kind of behavior attracts the world? That makes them look at our religion as worthy rather than worthless? When we act as Christ did. When we serve others. When we speak love. When we “visit orphans and widows in their distress.”

St. Francis of Assisi said, "The deeds you do may be the only sermon some persons will hear today.”

What sermon will you give today?

Doers ... Not Just Hearers (James 1:21-25)

Therefore, putting aside all filthiness and all that remains of wickedness, in humility receive the word implanted, which is able to save your souls. But prove yourselves doers of the word, and not merely hearers who delude themselves. For if anyone is a hearer of the word and not a doer, he is like a man who looks at his natural face in a mirror; for once he has looked at himself and gone away, he has immediately forgotten what kind of person he was. But one who looks intently at the perfect law, the law of liberty, and abides by it, not having become a forgetful hearer but an effectual doer, this man will be blessed in what he does.
(James 1:21-25, NASB)

How many of us are guilty of being “hearers” but not “doers”? How many of us go to church on Sunday, listen to a wonderful message about being the light of Christ, and then just go about our weeks? Or a podcast about serving the less fortunate, and ignore the needs of those around us? Or read a passage about helping the widow and orphan, and hope someone else does the work?

You can’t see me, but my hand is raised …

I do try to live those “greatest commandments”: Love the Lord, heart, soul, mind, and strength, and love others. I truly try to show love, kindness, patience, and gentleness. I want to “judge not.”

But I know I could do more to serve others as Christ did. I could figuratively (or perhaps literally) wash the feet of those around me. It’s funny, but I was thinking about this very thing this weekend. What in my own community could I be doing to help the “least of these”? I know there are prisons and shelters within just a few miles of where I live.

What more could I do? What more could you do?

Let’s be doers of God’s word. Let’s shine Christ’s light and be so sincerely caring of those around us that they’ll be attracted to our Lord

Words to Live By (James 1:19-20)

This you know, my beloved brethren. But everyone must be quick to hear, slow to speak and slow to anger; for the anger of man does not achieve the righteousness of God.
(James 1:19-20, NASB)

Oh, if we could only live by these words. If we would listen more and speak less. If we would take time to think before reacting … what a difference it would make.

I used to facilitate Seven Habits for Highly Effective People, and these verses remind me of two of the habits.

The first is "Be Proactive." It’s the habit of choosing how you respond. You may have been told as a kid to count to ten before reacting? That’s what this is about. Being “slow to anger.” Instead of having a knee-jerk reaction, you stop and think. Then you respond based on what you value. In other words, if you value your relationship with your child, then instead of yelling at him when he accidentally spills grape juice on your new white linen tablecloth, you take a deep breath and respond with gentleness.

The fifth habit is "Seek First to Understand." In this habit, you listen, really listen, to what the other is saying. You don’t judge. You don’t think about what you’re going to say. You don’t interrupt. You just listen. The other person is your focus. Not you.

Try this today: When your spouse or your friend or your child wants to talk to you, put everything else aside. Look them in the eye. And listen.

And if someone does something that upsets you? Count to ten. And respond in love.

Our Never-changing God (James 1:17-18)

Every good thing given and every perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of lights, with whom there is no variation or shifting shadow. In the exercise of His will He brought us forth by the word of truth, so that we would be a kind of first fruits among His creatures.
(James 1:17-18, NASB)

One of my favorite all-time hymns is “Great is Thy Faithfulness.” The chorus comes from Lamentations 3:22-23:

The LORD’S lovingkindnesses indeed never cease,
For His compassions never fail.
They are new every morning;
Great is Your faithfulness.

But there’s also a hint of James 1:17 in the first verse:

Great is Thy Faithfulness, O God My Father,
There is no shadow of turning with Thee.
Thou changest not. Thy compassions, they fail not.
As Thou hast been, Thou forever wilt be.

God was, is, and forever will be. We can have be confident of that.

And our never-changing God, our Father of lights, showers us with “every good thing … and every perfect gift.”

He carries us through the difficult times. He provides for our every need. He works through us to tell the world His truth.

I don’t know about you, but I feel tremendously blessed to know that God is the same loving, compassionate, righteous, and faithful God He’s always been … and always will be.

Do Not Be Deceived (James 1:13-16)

Let no one say when he is tempted, “I am being tempted by God”; for God cannot be tempted by evil, and He Himself does not tempt anyone. But each one is tempted when he is carried away and enticed by his own lust. Then when lust has conceived, it gives birth to sin; and when sin is accomplished, it brings forth death. Do not be deceived, my beloved brethren.
(James 1:13-16, NASB)

For reasons beyond my comprehension, God has allowed evil to exist since Adam and Eve. And He’s allowed this continual battle between those who follow Him and the “spiritual hosts of wickedness” (Eph. 6:12).

But He Himself does not tempt us. Rather, we allow circumstances or other people to infiltrate our hearts and minds. We make poor choices. We listen to the voice of the enemy.

And when we open ourselves to those things not of God, we are enveloped by sin. And unrepentant sin leads to death—eternal separation from God.

I spent many years with my back turned firmly away from God. I let myself think that, because I’d been abused and hurt as a child, I had an excuse. If God allowed these things to happen, I thought, then I would make my own decisions, chart my own course.

I was deceived.

It wasn’t until I realized that I was indeed in a battle, and I was letting the enemy win, that I came back to the One who will be ultimately victorious.

Don’t let the enemy win. If you’re struggling with sin, turn it over to the Lord. Ask Him to forgive you and to help you overcome whatever temptation the enemy of your soul sends.

Do not be deceived, my friend

A Crown of Life (James 1:12)

Blessed is a man who perseveres under trial; for once he has been approved, he will receive the crown of life which the Lord has promised to those who love Him.
(James 1:12, NASB)

This is one of those verses that we Christians should commit to memory. It’s a wonderful reminder of why we can find joy in our trials. (See devotional from August 1.)

One day, each of us will stand before our Lord God, and He will place on our heads the crown of life. He will look at what we did to serve Him and others. He will review how we stood strong through trials and sufferings.

And He will say, “Well done, good and faithful servant” (Matt. 25:14-30).

When I think of seeing my God face-to-face and hearing those words, anything that happens to me here on earth is worth it. The abuse I experienced as a child. My struggle with infertility. My daily pain.

Every trial has refined me and made me stronger. God has used—and continues to use—me and my stories to encourage others.

And one day, I’ll wear that crown of life.

If you’re struggling, remember that God loves you and will help you through whatever storm you’re going through. Persevere and know one day you, too, will wear that crown.

The Futility of Riches (James 1:9-11)

But the brother of humble circumstances is to glory in his high position; and the rich man is to glory in his humiliation, because like flowering grass he will pass away. For the sun rises with a scorching wind and withers the grass; and its flower falls off and the beauty of its appearance is destroyed; so too the rich man in the midst of his pursuits will fade away.
(James 1:9-11, NASB)

Just a few days ago, I saw a stage production of Fiddler on the Roof. If you’ve never seen it ... get a copy of the DVD and watch it! It’s a great musical with a great story.

The main character, Tevye, is a poor milk man, and at one point, he asks God why He couldn’t have given him riches (singing the iconic “If I were a rich man …”). Tevye thinks that having money, being rich, would take care of all his problems.

And the same is true for many of us today. If I were rich, I’d have a perfect life, we think.

So we work too hard, trying to earn just one more dollar or get just one more promotion. We fudge on our taxes. We gamble.

We seem to forget one thing: Riches do not necessarily equal happiness. Think of the rich and famous who have spiraled out of control due to drug or alcohol use. Think of the lottery winners who are bankrupt in just months. Solomon wrote in Ecclesiastes that wealth is futile: “behold all was vanity and striving after wind and there was no profit under the sun” (2:11b).

Instead of focusing on wealth, perhaps we would be wise to focus on contentment, on being satisfied with whatever God gives us. Or as the apostle Paul wrote:

“Not that I speak from want, for I have learned to be content in whatever circumstances I am. I know how to get along with humble means, and I also know how to live in prosperity; in any and every circumstance I have learned the secret of being filled and going hungry, both of having abundance and suffering need” (Phil. 4:11-12)

Trust Without Doubting (James 1:5-8)

But if any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all generously and without reproach, and it will be given to him. But he must ask in faith without any doubting, for the one who doubts is like the surf of the sea, driven and tossed by the wind. For that man ought not to expect that he will receive anything from the Lord, being a double-minded man, unstable in all his ways.
(James 1:5-8, NASB)

I like the first part of today’s scriptures. I’d like a bit more wisdom, and I’m assured I can ask God, and He’ll give generously to me.

But then comes that phrase that breaks my heart: “… he must ask in faith without any doubting …”

Without any doubting? Is that humanly possible?

Because there are still times when I doubt, when I question—even after walking with the Lord for years. There are times when I feel “driven and tossed by the wind.” So does this mean that I shouldn’t “expect that [I] will receive anything from the Lord”? Am I “double-minded, unstable in all [my] ways”?

Praise God, I believe the answer is “no.”

Just as the Bible convicts those who live in habitual sin, I believe these verses speak about a state of mind. A constant doubting. A continual double-mindedness.

The Adam Clarke Commentary gives some insight:

The man who is not thoroughly persuaded that if he ask of God he shall receive, resembles a wave of the sea; he is in a state of continual agitation; driven by the wind, and tossed: now rising by hope, then sinking by despair … The man whose mind is divided, who is not properly persuaded either of his own wants or God's sufficiency. Such persons may pray, but having no faith, they can get no answer … The man of two souls, who has one for earth, and another for heaven; who wishes to secure both worlds; he will not give up earth, and he is loth to let heaven go. (http://www.studylight.org/com/acc/view.cgi?book=jas&chapter=001)

I know God is in loving control. I know He has a perfect plan for me. I may not always understand. And doubt may sometimes make me question why things happen the way they do. But then I am reminded how faithful God has been and how faithful He will be.

And so I know I can ask for wisdom to know His will. And the strength to do it.

Joy In Trials (James 1:1-4)

James, a bond-servant of God and of the Lord Jesus Christ, to the twelve tribes who are dispersed abroad: Greetings. Consider it all joy, my brethren, when you encounter various trials, knowing that the testing of your faith produces endurance. And let endurance have its perfect result, so that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing.
(James 1:1-4, NASB)

Many Christians know and quote verses 3 and 4 often. Those of us who've walked with Christ know we’re to find “joy” in our trials because trials do, indeed, test and grow our faith.

I believe this with all my heart. I believe each and every trial or test I’ve gone through has made me stronger, both in mind and spirit. I know when I face adversity or difficulty, I have two choices: I can whine and complain and roll up into a little ball, or I can seek God’s strength to get me through.

I’d rather do the latter.

But I do know that there are those whose struggles have been so much greater than mine. How do you find the joy when you lose your dearly-loved child? Or the job you’ve faithfully served for 20 years lays you off? Or your spouse tells you he just doesn’t love you anymore? How do you find the joy then?

The only thing I can tell you is take your pain to God. I know that sounds clichéd, but it’s true. I spent too many years suffering alone. I turned my back on God as a teenager because I couldn’t understand why He’d allowed very painful things to happen to me.

When I finally made my way back to Him in my late-twenties, my suffering didn’t end. But a level of maturity let me know that trials do come to all of us. And I know now that I can truly find joy in knowing God has a plan beyond my understanding. And that plan is surrounded by His love.

A woman of faith I greatly admire said it this way:

I have learned that all things fit together into a pattern for my good and God’s glory. Hardships have forced me to make decisions about God. Ah, this wheelchair has made muscular my faith.

You know who said these words? Joni Earekson Tada who’s been in a wheelchair as a quadriplegic for over 40 years.

Yes, we will all suffer at one time or another. Yes, we will face trials and temptations. But we can find joy if we just trust God. Trust Him and His plan

Exalt the Lord ... Every Day (Ps. 99:9)

Exalt the LORD our God
And worship at His holy hill,
For holy is the LORD our God.
(Psalm 99:9, NASB)

How appropriate to end this psalm with words of praise on this Lord’s day!!

Depending upon where you live, you’ve already attended a worship service, you’re praising God right now, or you will be enjoying fellowship with other believers soon.

No matter where or when you might be gathering with other “family” members, your praise and worship doesn’t have to stop there. In fact, it shouldn’t.

Today—and every day—should be spent in exaltation of the holy Lord. We can praise Him when we get up in the morning. When we eat breakfast. When we take our morning shower. When we drive to school or work. When we exercise. When we sit at a desk or play with our friends. When we have dinner with our family. When we lie down to sleep.

Words of praise and worship should continually be flowing through our hearts and minds.

That’s why I love music so very much. I can praise God throughout my day by singing my favorite hymns and praise songs. And that’s why I try to memorize parts of scripture. I can praise God with words of exaltation as I’m reminded of His attributes.

So today, on this day many of us set aside to attend worship services, don’t just praise Him as you sit in a pew. Praise Him all day. Today and every day.

Call Upon the Lord (Ps. 99:6-8)

Moses and Aaron were among His priests,
And Samuel was among those who called on His name;
They called upon the LORD and He answered them.
He spoke to them in the pillar of cloud;
They kept His testimonies
And the statute that He gave them.
O LORD our God, You answered them;
You were a forgiving God to them,
And yet an avenger of their evil deeds.
(Psalm 99:6-8, NASB)

Jehovah God never changes. He is the same as He was in the days of Moses, Aaron and Samuel. When they called upon Him, He answered them. He does the same today.

That’s what prayer is all about: Calling on God and listening to His answer.

Sometimes, though, we can get caught up in the calling and forget about the listening. Or am I the only one who does this?

I love to intercede for my friends and family. I love praying for their needs, for provision, for peace and comfort.

And doing this is a very good thing.

But all too often, I’m so busy doing that very good thing that I neglect to just sit quietly and listen to God’s voice. I wrote this in my book The Best Laid Plans:

The most important thing about listening for God’s voice is that, in order for Him to be heard, you must be silent. God doesn’t want to compete with the world’s noise, nor should He. We know God, we hear His voice, in the stillness, in the quiet. God tells us to “Be still, and know that I am God.” (Psalm 46:10) King David said with confidence that “the Lord has set apart for Himself him who is godly; the Lord will hear when I call to Him . . . Meditate within your heart on your bed, and be still” (Psalm 4:3,4). (© 2005 Sauni Rinehart)

God promises to answer when we call out to Him, when we listen quietly for His voice.

Just as He did with Moses, Aaron, and Samuel

Exalt the Lord (Ps. 99:4-5)

The strength of the King loves justice;
You have established equity;
You have executed justice and righteousness in Jacob.
Exalt the LORD our God
And worship at His footstool;
Holy is He.
(Psalm 99:4-5, NASB)

The Lord is holy and righteous. He is just. He is equitable as He offers salvation and forgiveness of sin to all people.

If only they seek Him.

Anyone who exalts God and worships at His footstool, seeking His forgiveness through faith in His Son, will be cleansed from his or her sins.

And here on earth, we can praise Him, worship Him, and exalt Him. We can honor Him with our actions, thoughts, and words. And we have the privilege of speaking directly to Him in prayer and reading His word to us.

Our holy God demands—and deserves—our total surrender. For some, that seems too much. They don’t want to give up control. But honestly? I’ve found that when I surrender my life, my plans, my relationships to Him, He does amazingly beyond my expectations. And even those times when I didn’t get what I wanted, even those times when I suffered—when I still suffer—I see how God works everything for good (Rom. 8:28).

And He is worthy—more than worthy—of all my praise and exaltations.

The One and Only God (Ps. 99:2-3)

The LORD is great in Zion,
And He is exalted above all the peoples.
Let them praise Your great and awesome name;
Holy is He.
(Psalm 99:2-3, NASB)

One of the saddest commentaries of current culture is the idea that there are many gods—even that we can be gods ourselves.

There is only one God. Only one.

And one day, every person who ever lived or will live will recognize this truth. (See Phil. 2:9-11.)

Those of us who know Him and have committed our lives to Him will praise His great and awesome name. We will stand in His presence in reverent awe, rejoicing that we will spend eternity with Him.

But the millions who have denied His existence will stand before Him and experience His final judgment. They will know—for certain—that He is the one and only God. And then they will be separated from their Creator forever.

I don’t know about you, but this makes it all the more urgent to gently and lovingly share Christ. We need to be Christ’s light to a dark world. We need to love as Christ loves—with patience and kindness and gentleness.

We need to help those who say “there may be a god” or “there is no god” see that there is. There is a God … the one and only God. The God who loves them. The God who wants to spend eternity with them (2 Peter 3:9).

The one great God.

The Lord Reigns (Ps. 99:1)

The LORD reigns, let the peoples tremble;
He is enthroned above the cherubim, let the earth shake!
(Psalm 99:1, NASB)

The Lord God reigns! He is all-powerful, all-knowing, and all-loving. He is just and holy and righteous. He is good and full of compassion.

We should tremble in His presence—perhaps not literally, but certainly figuratively. We should be so in awe of Him that our hearts shake with humility. Yet how often do we—do I—take Him for granted.

I’m especially convicted as I write these words this morning. On Monday, I had what I call a mini-retreat. It’s extended time I take every three or four months to just sit and commune with the Lord. And as I meditated on God’s word and prayed for a couple of hours, I recognized how often I treat my daily time with the Lord as just another task to complete.

Instead of anticipating this time with joy, humility, and gratitude, I rush through it, just to get it done. I’m certainly not trembling in awe.

The fact that I can come to the sovereign, reigning Lord and spend time with Him is amazing. The God of the universe wants to listen to my voice and speak to my heart. And He wants to do the same with you.

Oh, Lord, forgive me for taking You for granted, for not trembling in Your presence. Help me, Holy Spirit, to come to the foot of the throne without distractions—every day.

Cease Striving (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. 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 often speak about God’s plans for our lives, and I talk about how we can hear God’s voice. I use this verse 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 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!

One Day ... (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. Peace will reign. Joy will abound.

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.

A Vice-Grip (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. As the apostle Paul wrote, nothing, absolutely nothing can separate us from Christ’s love (see Romans 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.

This has been one of those “best of times, worst of times” weeks.

I started out Monday morning feeling great, full of energy. For three days, I volunteered at my church’s VBS, teaching a group of sweet second-graders. Monday evening, I demonstrated a Dove tasting party. Tuesday evening, I had a rehearsal for a play I’m in. So much fun!

Then Thursday morning, I awoke in much-more-than-usual pain. It became very clear that I’d overdone it. And I spent the last two days in bed. It would be easy to fret about this: How will I handle today’s Dove tasting party and all the other things I have to do this weekend? 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.

My 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, physically, I have absolutely no strength, when the pain is unrelenting, 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.

The Lord, My Salvation (Ps. 3:5-8)

I lay down and slept;
I awoke, for the LORD sustained me.
I will not be afraid of ten thousands of people
Who have set themselves against me all around.
Arise, O LORD;
Save me, O my God!
…
Salvation belongs to the LORD.
Your blessing is upon Your people.
(Psalm 3:5-8, NKJV)


Not only is the Lord our shield, as we learned yesterday, but He’s also our salvation from enemies and circumstances—and sleepless nights.

I like the beginning of verse 5. I don’t know about you, but sometimes when I face uncertainty, one of the first things that goes is sleep. Tossing and turning. Worrying and fretting. In times like these, I’ve learned if I talk to God just before I go to sleep and then again when I wake, He will sustain me. He will give me the strength I need to get through each moment, each day.

These verses also remind me I don’t have to fear. I really, really don’t. He’s in control, and He’ll save me. I may—no, let’s be honest here—I will face trials. I will face temptations. I may even face an enemy full-on. But He’ll carry me through.

God’s word promises salvation from our enemies. But let’s not forget, it also promises eternal salvation. So even if today seems rough, even if there’s not even a glimmer of light at the end of that proverbial tunnel, we who know Jesus Christ can be assured that this temporary life will one day be not even a memory. We’ll be face-to-face with our Lord and Savior.

Forever.

The Lord, My Shield (Ps. 3:1-4)

LORD, how they have increased who trouble me!
Many are they who rise up against me.
Many are they who say of me,
“There is no help for him in God.”
But You, O LORD, are a shield for me,
My glory and the One who lifts up my head.
I cried to the LORD with my voice,
And He heard me from His holy hill.
(Psalm 3:1-4, NKJV)

This psalm spoke to my soul this morning as my heart continues to hurt for many of my friends who are struggling: still unemployed (or underemployed); facing health issues; dealing with relationship problems. It has to be a little scary, even for those who have a strong faith in our loving, Sovereign God.

They’re facing troubles, and there are some who may very well say, “You have no help.” Moments may come when even those who trust the Lord may wonder when help will come.

The writer of this psalm certainly understood trouble from those “who rise up against” him. But he knew the One who held him. He knew he could cry out to his Lord, and he would be heard.

We can do the same. No matter our trouble, no matter our pain, no matter our distress, we can cry out to our Lord. We can have confidence that He is our shield. He is the one who lifts our heads.

Life isn’t easy. And we’ve never been promised it would be. But we do have a protector, a shield against the troubles this world—and its “prince”—may bring.

Cry out to Him. If you’re feeling troubled, unsure, weary, worried … Cry out to Him. He will listen. He will shield you.

Trust Him.

Greet Each Other in Christ (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.

God Supplies All 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.

Serving Each Other (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.

Learning 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 These 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 really would live by Paul’s exhortation in these verses. If only we really would meditate only on those things that are true, noble, just, pure, lovely, and of good report. If only we really would 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!

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.

Women in the Church (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. Yes, in verse 2, Paul is encouraging unity between two women, but it's clear he saw the importance of women in 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 spoke to a “place of prayer” and spoke to the “women assemble there” (16:13). And there were women of prominence 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).

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 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)

Have you ever been homesick? Maybe you’ve been away at school, and you missed 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.

Godly Examples (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.

Growing More 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.

Pressing On (Phil. 3:12-13)

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 [almost eighteen] years ago, I adopted Philippians 3:13-14 as my two of 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 that was 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, knowing He’s beside me all the way.

What Really Matters (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 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: eternity with Christ.

Nothing else matters.

Life Forever Changed (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—the one we now know as 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.

Rejoice in the Lord (Phil. 3:1)

Finally, my brethren, rejoice in the Lord. For me to write the same things to you is not tedious, but for you it is safe.
(Philippians 3:1, NKJV)

It all comes down to this: Rejoice in the Lord. Through good times and bad times. On mountaintops and in valleys. At the wedding altar and at the graveside. When the doctor says “you’re cured” and when the words are “I’m so sorry.”

Rejoice in the Lord.

It’s not always easy. I admit there are many, many times I fail in this. When I don’t feel well. When the future looks so uncertain. When a friend turns from me. How do I rejoice in these times?

I just do. It’s a deliberate decision to find joy in all circumstances. A choice. I can choose to wallow and whine, or I can choose to give praise and glory to my Lord. And the latter is certainly better than the former.

Rejoice in the Lord. Remember His abundant love. Revel in His overwhelming blessings. Reach out your hand to Him and thank Him for being your Lord and Savior.

And rejoice.

Fellow Workers and Soldiers (Phil. 2:25-30)

Yet I considered it necessary to send to you Epaphroditus, my brother, fellow worker, and fellow soldier, but your messenger and the one who ministered to my need … Receive him therefore in the Lord with all gladness, and hold such men in esteem; because for the work of Christ he came close to death, not regarding his life, to supply what was lacking in your service toward me.
(Philippians 2:25-30, NKJV)

I’m taking a bit of license with today’s devotional, but I feel led to share some thoughts …

God has called some men and women to be His spokespeople. People like Billy Graham or Beth Moore have been placed on platforms throughout the world to proclaim God’s truth. The pastors of our churches likewise have a great responsibility to spread the gospel.

Yet sometimes, rather than “holding them in esteem,” we criticize. We judge. We disparage. Or at the very least, we take them for granted. This isn’t to say we should look at them as if they were Christian “pop stars.” They’re being used of God as He sees fit, but our roles in the body of Christ are no less important.

However, I wonder sometimes if we “receive with all gladness” those who are God’s messengers. Do we offer words of encouragement to our pastors and church leaders? Do we thank our small group or Bible study leaders for the preparation they do for our studies? Do we show gratitude to our children’s Sunday School teachers?

While we’re all called to serve—and are gifted to do so—some of our body are in positions of leadership or are more visible than others. Let’s esteem those brothers and sisters. Let’s encourage them. Let’s thank them for their service.