Ennui ... (a moment of weakness ?)

Do you get those feelings that you've missed it? Or worse, blown it? That all you're currently doing is marking time and or languishing somewhere at the back of a very dusty shelf? It may not be depression or melancholy you are experiencing, but there is a tangible and distinct feeling of disquiet and restlessness. I finally had to face the fact that perhaps my 'problem' was that I really didn't have a problem. Silly? Not. We can get to the point that our 'lifestyle' is one of being in battle so that when there is a pause, a respite we are without anything to contend with/against. Thus... we don't know what we should be doing.?! Possible? Yes. Weakness? Maybe.

Most plausible. But, basically, deep down, that, my friends, I would argue, is the result of a longing to be home... as in Home in Heaven. For me, it descends every once in a while not necessarily heralding anything in particular but reminding me that this world is not my true home. That I am a representative. right where I am, with responsibilities  but that it really is only a temporary residence for a finite amount of time. I really should be about my Lord's business while there is time.

Don't misunderstand... I do love my life (for the most part) and have all the critical components (basic needs met, family, friends, and most importantly - a mission) - I am not longing for death. But I've discovered that you can long to be someplace else, Home, without desiring to abandon life. I've adhered to the scripture, "...it's appointed for each man a time to die..." (Hebrews 9:27) and I really am not seeking my day/time, yet... Typically I react to me in these times with a shrug and try to move on.

Years ago when I was a golf addict my brother said something that ended up being a tag line of mine in a variety of areas. He said, he tried to take the attitude that if a shot he made wasn't his best or didn't do what he wanted... it was only a shot - it didn't need to be the entire game. (paraphrased). Wise, yes. (Not a question) 

I do try and live by this standard - sometimes better than other times. One of the greatest verses for me became/is:

   "For we do not have a High Priest (Jesus)who is unable to sympathize 

    and understand our weaknesses and temptations, but One who has 

    been tempted [knowing exactly how it feels to be human] in every 

    respect as we are, yet without [committing any] sin." (Hebrews 4:15, AMP)

My answer to my time of ennui - recognizing that my Lord DOES recognize these feelings and is the one to turn to. We don't need to wallow in these times but we can overcome and go beyond them because He knows and understands. Now couple that verse with 1 Corinthians 10:13 AMP

   "No temptation [regardless of its source] has overtaken or enticed 

    you that is not common to human experience [nor is any temptation 

    unusual or beyond human resistance]; but God is faithful [to His 

    word—He is compassionate and trustworthy], and He will not let you

    be tempted beyond your ability [to resist], but along with the tempta-

    tion He [has in the past and is now and] will [always] provide the way 

    out as well, so that you will be able to endure it [without yielding, and 

    will overcome temptation with joy].

How's that for a 1-2 punch! Standing on these 2 scriptures provides me with an unshakable foundation. Your answer to your times may be different - find  scripture(s) that are foundational for you and that you can lean on to go beyond... ennui.

I Have Come...

Some of the more remarkable statements Jesus made was to tell us, unmistakably, why He came. It is an incredible list of what He brings us so that we can live the abundant life. None of His 'gifts' are insignificant and they all provide us with a foundation. Do we appropriate them for ourselves and then share this with others, demonstrating what happens for them when they accept Jesus' Lordship? 

To do the will of the Father.

To save sinners.
To bring light to the world.
To bear witness to the truth.
To destroy the work of the devil.
To give eternal life.

And those are only 6 of over 31 different acts Jesus came to bring and do for us. This is why He came and what He did. Jesus had a mission and a vision about who He was, why He was here, what He was about and His words and actions were meant to fulfill this. Scripture (Amplified) records:

   "Do not think that I came to do away with or undo the [a]Law [of Moses] 

    or the [writings of the] Prophets; I did not come to destroy but to fulfill." 

    (Matthew 5:17)

   "...I came that they may have and enjoy life, and have it in abundance 

    [to the full, till it overflows]." (John 10:10)

   "The Spirit of the Lord is upon Me (the Messiah), Because He has 

       **anointed Me to preach the good news to the poor.

       **He has sent Me to announce release (pardon, forgiveness) to the 

           captives,

       **And recovery of sight to the blind,

       **To set free those who are oppressed (downtrodden, bruised, crushed 

           by tragedy)" (Luke 4:18)

   "...for the Son of Man has come to seek and to save that which was lost.”

    (Luke 19:10)

Goodness! If you were tasked with these responsibilities, how would you feel? Knowing that you had only a short time to get your message understood by others, what would you say? How would you say it? Because inevitably there would be the final act, the final demonstration about who you are and this result would be your death. And... can you imagine a love so great that you willingly would undertake it because your love of the God of the Universe and His creation necessitated you, and only you, to give your life as an atonement for all?

What do these words mean to you? Are they manifested in your life? Have you ever taken the time to SEE and understand what has been bought for you... and the price it cost? Do you understand that when you accept Jesus as your personal Lord... you get so much more! Scripture tells us what that 'more' is. When it's available, How it's available, What you need to do to appropriate it for yourself.

Since the time of the fall of man, life has never been a 'piece of cake'. It is always fraught with so much that keeps us from 'abundance' - which is what Jesus wants for us.

   "The thief comes only in order to steal and kill and destroy. I (Jesus) 

    came that they may have and enjoy life, and have it in abundance 

    [to the full, till it overflows]." (John 10:10, AMP) 

He makes this same statement (He demonstrates this, He teaches this) over and over in order to give us hope and faith, to help us through this time... to help us see that through Him we CAN live a full and abundant life. Why would He tell us this if it was not possible? He doesn't tempt or tease us with this possibility, He tells us that this is why He came. Who He is. Who He continues to be (Hebrews 13:8). 

   "Jesus said to him, (Thomas) “I am the [only] Way [to God] and the 

    [real] Truth and the [real] Life; no one comes to the Father but 

    through Me." (John 14:6, AMP)

Your Best gift

You do realize that there is no way you can repay the Lord for what He's done for you and keeps doing... yes? And that it has never been an understanding, perception that you deserve His consideration. Then again... that really isn't the question. So what DO you do? Is it a bit like what the boy does in the song "The Little Drummer Boy"? But what does scripture say about repaying the Lord?

So what can you (we, anyone) do? What 'repayment' could possibly be offered? The Answer is - You. That's your best (and only, I would argue) gift you can give. It is always your choice, your offering... your gift to the Lord. And it is a gift that keeps on giving as you grow into the person, the best you, you can be. The best win-win. Because becoming your best is your gift to you as well. 

Seriously, have you ever thought that growing, becoming the best you is also a gift to yourself? It is. And it is completely under your control - you decide if you will learn, if you will grow, if you will give your best gift. But it should also give you a great sense of direction to know that this is your method/way of acknowledging and 'repaying' the Lord.

When scripture talks about 'repayment' there is a shift from a 'quid pro quo' approach.

   "Owe nothing to anyone except to love and seek the best for one 

    another; for he who [unselfishly] loves his neighbor has fulfilled the 

    [essence of the] law [relating to one’s fellowman]." (Romans 13:8, AMP) 

This scripture is talking about not being in debt except the deb to love and seek the best for others. Again, something that we choose to do. It also comes with a gift attached: fulfilling the essence of the law.

   "But whoever has the world’s goods (adequate resources), and sees 

    his brother in need, but has no compassion for him, how does the  

    love of God live in him?" (1 John 3:17, AMP)

The context of repayment in this verse is a question, a way to judge our own actions. How would God's love be in evidence in us if we acted without compassion?

   "Carry one another’s burdens and in this way you will fulfill the require-

    ments of the law of Christ [that is, the law of Christian love]."

    (Galatians 6:2, AMP)

Again our choice. But this is behavior that is pleasing to the Lord. Even though it is impossible to repay Him for His gift of life to us, when we do the things that He would have us be/do, then we are becoming our best selves. Always remember His words:

   "Be on guard; stand firm in your faith [in God, respecting His precepts 

    and keeping your doctrine sound]. Act like [mature] men and be courage-

    ous; be strong. Let everything you do be done in love [motivated and 

    inspired by God’s love for us]." (1 Corinthians 16:13-14, AMP)

We, with all our flaws but also our qualities, still are our best gift to the Lord. We demonstrate this when we do what He tells us and know that when we abide in Him that we have everything we need to continue to be our best gift.

Do not fear...

How many times does the Lord say to us... do not fear? Take a look at how often He does say this in His word. Any thoughts? As a matter of fact, we are told not to fear 365 times in scripture! One for each day of the year.!? Incredible. So why don't we not fear? Is fear and faith a trust issue? OF COURSE. And more.

There is absolutely NO area in our lives that fear isn't addressed in scripture. I think the point is if you feel your faith is flagging and needs supporting, look to the (specific) fear and the Word's response to it. And still... why do we let fear in, because it is we who give in to the fear. Do we forget our faith? our weapons? our response to fear?

When you begin to study out the ‘why’ we aren’t supposed to fear, I think you’ll notice that many times it precedes an important announcement. It's almost like a divine attention phrase that is supposed to ease us into listening and understanding what will come next. One of my favorites is when the angels appear to the shepherds.

   “Do not be afraid; for behold, I bring you good news of great joy which 

    will be for all the people. For this day in the city of David there has been 

    born for you a Savior, who is Christ the Lord (the Messiah).” (Luke 2:10-11, AMP)

Obviously, when something occurs, from the momentous to the mundane that we don't understand, we do/may tend to respond initially with fear until we actually do hear, do begin to understand the message that is being imparted/given. Then the joy emerges. Can you put yourself, for a moment, into the shoes of those shepherds who have seen the great star (light) and now see rejoicing angels? Wouldn't you be just a tad bit concerned as to what this was purporting to be (do)? But fear?

Again, it may be an issue of semantics/definitions. Fear, in my world, is defined in terms of those 'things' that I have NO control over and never expected so I'm not certain how I should react. For me, 'fear' is an absence of knowing what to do and/or how. Simply because I've never experienced (fill in the blank) is not necessarily a cause for fear. 

I know that the church speaks in terms of fear as the absence of our faith but this is generalized and fear has many manifestation: physical, emotional, specific, general, harm, challenge, etc. When we do experience a sense of dread, fear... we need to do a quick assessment to discern what the threat is and what's being threatened. Rarely is this done. Bravado, anger, flight are only some of our reactions to a perceived fear.

All that leads to understanding but it does not eliminate our fear nor adequately explain it. I believe that this is because fear really is individually defined and experienced. What may cause fear in me may be laughable to you. What we all need to do is recognized when we are heading toward fear and stop before we react. Fear is meant to cripple us. But as we turn to the Lord and exercise our faith... we overcome and do not fear.

Trophy

YOU are a trophy for God! Betcha you never thought of yourself in this light. I know I certainly didn't. Can't take credit for the revelation... a pastor was giving a message from Galatians and made the comment. Now before you dismiss it out of hand... think about it. And, you are not only a trophy, you are a displayed trophy (person) in His trophy case by HIM. We all are. You may not be as invisible as you think. 

Everyone who accepts Jesus as Lord is a trophy for the Father and He relishes this not the least of reason is that a trophy for God means one less person the devil controls. Remember... the devil is sneaky and hasn't given up on leading you astray (1 Peter 5:8) and though you belong to the Lord, the devil really wants you on the sidelines totally ineffective. He tries to continually tell you that you aren't worth it, you can do nothing that brings honor to the Lord - you are a loser. Never, buy into this lie. The devil is actually very fearful of you... of the witness you can provide.

When you think about this a bit longer, it's what YOU do with this status, how you display yourself that becomes the gift you bring. Unlike trophies in a case, we aren't there to simply stand there. The times that we are best displayed are times we are living trophies, doing what's at our hand, bringing honor and glory to the Lord. I like to think that each time we do this, we are becoming more shiny, more visible, more of a witness of Whose we are. 

Remember the story of the prodigal son? Talk about a huge mistake... that man made it! Then again, before we accepted Jesus as our Lord, so were we - massively lost. At the end of that parable, remember... the father threw a huge party for his son to celebrate his return. 

   "...for this son of mine was [as good as] dead and is alive again; he was 

    lost and has been found.’ So they began to celebrate." (Luke 15:24, AMP)

We read this parable in John as well. I think it's meant to bring (and reinforce) hope that no matter how far away we are from God, He will find a way to help us home. Ultimately, it is always our choice to accept. That's what God does for us when we accept Him! Talk about a trophy snatched from the devil's hands! Regardless of how 'good' or 'bad' we are, we have this same opportunity. And being lost is not a viable choice.

We're actually returning to our roots. We come with all of us, warts and all - and it's this testimony to others that encourages them to do the same. And we continue to make mistakes, we sin - it really isn't new information. The Father knew this would happen so He gave us 1 John 1:9 so that we could return to fellowship with Him. 

Do you want to be a trophy? Do what's at your hand to His glory and honor... not yours. It is the Lord who provides us with opportunities to become trophies.

Controlling you

Controlling you. Do you? Does someone else or something else dictate? Do you allow yourself to express whatever it is you are feeling and yet not control you or your feelings? (Some people call this 'being transparent. Really?) Actually... never swallow your feelings, they will express themselves - now or eventually. The point isn't so much control versus the expression as it is our how of expressing, the length of time the emotion is dominant, and if we engage in punishing ourselves or others after the emotion is expressed. Punish others? Oh yes. Because typically our somewhat explosive expression is when we are vulnerable and don't hide ourselves.

   "Like a city that is broken down and without walls [leaving it 

    unprotected] is a man who has no self-control over his spirit [and 

    sets himself up for trouble]." (Proverbs 25:28, AMP) 

Is self control even possible or needed? Obviously 'yes' to both. This verse in Proverbs is only one of many that speak to us about the need for, our responsibility for, and our ability to do what's necessary in order that OUR self-control rules!

Galatians 5:19-21, AMP speak to the importance of our control over ourselves and includes the lack of our control over ourselves along with sexual immorality, witchcraft, hatred, rage, envy, drunkenness, etc. That may sound harsh but it's what the Word says... and ends with: "I warn you, as I did before, that those who live like this will not inherit the kingdom of God."  That just demonstrated how important self-control is.

Both the Old and New Testaments talk about self-control and its importance... so if we are asked to do something, we obviously can! There are over 50 verses that speak to this issue and more that tell us what WE receive when we do this. So what is it we receive if we practice self-control; and do remember this is an ongoing process that really never ends. We receive:

   "For the time being no discipline brings joy, but seems sad and painful; 

    yet to those who have been trained by it, afterwards it yields the peace-

    ful fruit of righteousness [right standing with God and a lifestyle and 

    attitude that seeks conformity to God’s will and purpose]." 

    (Hebrews 12:9-11, AMP)

   "For this very reason, applying your diligence [to the divine promises, 

    make every effort] in [exercising] your faith to, develop moral 

    excellence, and in moral excellence, knowledge (insight, under-

    standing), and in your knowledge, self-control..." (2 Peter 1:5-9, AMP) 

Self-control is NOT isolated. it is based in what we do know, where our faith is. Our knowledge (when acted on) and faith are strong pillars in who we are and how we present ourselves. Self-control also produces, among others qualities, steadfastness, godliness, love. I suspect that this is why the Galatian verses (5: 22-23) include self-control as a fruit of the Spirit!

1 Corinthians 9:24 admonishes us to run our race so as to get the prize. I would suggest that self control is the path to the prize.

   "I press on toward the goal to win the [heavenly] prize of the upward 

    call of God in Christ Jesus." (Philippians 3;14, AMP)

Here I am...

First consider 2 scriptures:

   "Then I heard the voice of the Lord, saying, “Whom shall I send, and who 

    will go for Us?” Then I said, “Here am I. Send me!” (Isaiah 5:8, AMP)

   "But you will receive power and ability when the Holy Spirit comes upon 

    you; and you will be My witnesses [to tell people about Me] both in 

    Jerusalem and in all Judea, and Samaria, and even to the ends of the 

    earth.” (Acts 1:8, AMP)

In the process of understanding these two verses and also their relationship, don't miss the phrase - 'I heard the voice of the Lord...' To me, that is revelatory and of great importance. Obviously, the words say there was no doubt that the voice was the Lords... AND this describes a relationship that was developed long enough for this to be a trusted fact - not a wonder of 'was this of he Lord, or just me'. Also, if you know it's the Lord, you don't need to test the spirits (1 John 4:1) to discover if the voice is or is not the His. 

[I'm also going to add an addendum to this paragraph. The Holy Spirit wasn't at work in the Old Testament as much as He is in the New. He did lead the Old Testament Prophets, however, in the New Covenant, WE have the Spirit residing in us and with us. I believe that in the Old Testament, the 'recipient' had to be more confident.] 

‘Here I am... send me’, Is that your goal, mindset - attitude. If it isn’t, don’t expect to be asked to 'do' something. It isn’t that you aren't always ‘used’, it’s the attitude of availability and preparedness. Remember the 'wise virgins' (Matthew 25:1-13)? We should always be in a position of preparedness and availability. Also remember Luke 12:48, AMP:

   "...From everyone to whom much has been given, much will be required; 

    and to whom they entrusted much, of him they will ask all the more."  

Those who are ready, will be those who are asked... at least in my world of understanding. 

Two obvious points: 1. 'Send me' is definitely a decision by the person, unforced... of their own free will. And if you answer and say 'send me', then 2. is that you ARE equipped with everything you need to be successful. I have always found it amazing that even when I don't feel/think I'm prepared, at the point I need (fill in the blank) it is always present. I believe that the reason is that the Lord always provides whatever is needed when it is needed. We are never un-equipped. All we do is to be available and trust. We are His Ambassadors, why would He leave us and set us up for failure? Not. We do have our responsibilities though, we do need is to be prepared, to do our 'due diligence' - pray, study.

We are not alone though, we are equipped, enabled:

   "I thank Christ Jesus our Lord, who has granted me [the needed] 

    strength and made me able for this, because He considered me 

    faithful and trust-worthy, putting me into service [for this ministry]," 

    (1 Timothy 1:12, AMP)

   "For those whom He foreknew [and loved and chose beforehand], 

    He also predestined to be conformed to the image of His Son [and 

    ultimately share in His complete sanctification], so that He would 

    be the firstborn [the most beloved and honored] among many 

    believers. And those whom He predestined, He also called; and 

    those whom He called, He also justified [declared free of the guilt 

    of sin]; and those whom He justified, He also glorified [raising 

    them to a heavenly dignity]." (Romans 8: 29-30, AMP)

We receive so very much, when we say - Here am I... Send me. 

 

I think...

Hmmm... does this mean, "I believe"? And when I say, I believe, do I really mean, I think? Related they are but they aren't the same. At least to me. For me, 'I think' means that I have come to a conclusion, a point of understanding leading to a decision and an act... BUT, I am still open to input. I can still tweak my 'I think' without any negative ramifications. Not so with I believe.

'I believe' is putting all of me behind what follows. It is making a declaration, a statement. Does it mean that it's in cement? Never. 'I believe' can grow, can become more of a pillar or foundation with time. It says that I will stand on this, unequivocally, confidently, and without reservation. So is this just a fancy way of saying, 'it's relative'. Horrors... no! With every stand I take, I take fully and committed. HOWEVER, I will listen to your position when it differs and will take 'under advisement' to see how it blends or challenges or activates my belief. Remember, sometimes we say the same thing but have different meanings and sometimes we say different things and mean the same. It's always in the semantics and definitions.

When I say 'I think' I try to say this as an option for others. I'm indicating my thinking, what I know and understand. It's my pre-pretty much cement stage. I'm not 'testing the waters', because I've already done this. I have determined, based on my experience, how I will act. However, the point really is my foundation for assessing, coordinating, incorporating what I include as my criteria for determining my 'I think'.

While we all may know how we determine whether or not we accept/incorporate a piece of data into our frame of reference, mindset; but do we understand what underscores this? Perhaps this is part of the reason we need to renew our minds?! This, renewing, was never an idle suggestion - it has always held a place of predominance. It is also an ongoing process. You don't wake up one morning and tell yourself that this would be a good day to renew your mind (Romans 12:2) ... once you begin the process it will be continuous. 

I believe that the Lord created us with a mind that He expected us to use. However, we can always be mistaken or have only half truths but He expects us to be responsible for what we know and how we use this. At ALL time and in ALL situations. This means we need to renew and keep refining. Scripture speaks to our 'I think':

   "Set your mind and keep focused habitually on the things above [the 

    heavenly things], not on things that are on the earth [which have only 

    temporal value]." (Colossians 3:2, AMP)

   "We are destroying sophisticated arguments and every exalted and 

    proud thing that sets itself up against the [true] knowledge of God, 

    and we are taking every thought and purpose captive to the obedience

    of Christ," (2 Corinthians 10:5, AMP)

   "...whatever is true, whatever is honorable and worthy of respect, 

    whatever is right and confirmed by God’s word, whatever is pure and 

    wholesome, whatever is lovely and brings peace, whatever is admir-

    able and of good repute; if there is any excellence, if there is anything 

    worthy of praise, think continually on these things [center your mind 

    on them, and implant them in your heart]. 9 The things which you 

    have learned and received and heard and seen in me, practice these 

    things [in daily life], and the God [who is the source] of peace and well-

    being will be with you." (Philippians 4:8, AMP)

Renewing... I think... I believe are all part of who we are and how we go about being us. They all are also 'in process' since we are continually besieged from all sides with new information, challenges, temptations. Actually, there is very little that is in cement. Therefore, when we do act, we must confidently respond and act and continue. By the way... 'confidently' isn't afraid of differing thoughts nd positions. Challenges are seen in the context of 'iron sharpening iron' (Proverbs 27:17). But also remember we have help on our way so we can do and be... our best.   

A good work ... You!

One of my favorite verses is :

   "I am convinced and confident of this very thing, that He who has begun 

    a good work in you will [continue to] perfect and complete it until the day 

    of Christ Jesus [the time of His return]." (Philippians 1:6, AMP)

I must admit that sometimes when I'm reading scripture I come across a verse that tells me I'm not the only one who is facing the same issue. For me, this verse falls into this category. Because I sometimes need encouraging that I'm not alone in this journey to perfection and also the Lord is with me as I attempt to grow. 

This scripture also helps me in other ways, such as if I've misplaced my hope or joy. If you've misplaced your hope, you can find it in this verse. This is especially helpful when you are under attack and you can find no answer. Knowing that 'the Lord's not done with me yet' and 'I'm a work in progress' helps me regain me in the midst of those doubtful moments. If the Lord hasn't given up on me... if He is still involved in helping me become my best; then the least I can do is stand on this if my confidence in me is waning.

As confident as I typically am, there are always tests and challenges, plus the devil's temptations. But...because of the Lord, I can get through these trying times and rest in this scripture plus a few more: 1 Corinthians 10:13, Romans 8:37, and Romans 8:28 among others. One thing that I've learned is to have certain scriptures 'at the ready' to defeat whatever I'm facing. It is never wise to go into a battle (or have one thrust upon oneself) without being armed. Plus I have never forgotten how Jesus defeated the devil... 'it is written'.

One thing we should never entertain is giving up on ourselves. When we accepted Jesus as Lord, immediately the journey of helping us become our best began. Why give up before the goal is attained?

   "Let us not grow weary or become discouraged in doing good, for at 

    the proper time we will reap, if we do not give in." (Galatians 6:9 AMP)

Granted this verse is directed toward our behavior when we are attempting to accomplish a goal. But aren't we, the focus on us, just as important? Absolutely! Remember always that 

   "No weapon that is formed against you will succeed; And every tongue 

    that rises against you in judgment you will condemn. This [peace, 

    righteousness, security, and triumph over opposition] is the heritage 

    of the servants of the Lord, And this is their vindication from Me,” says 

    the Lord." (Isaiah 54:17, AMP)

In case you did some speed reading... stop and focus for a moment on the word, 'heritage'. You, We all have a heritage from the Lord! Webster defines 'heritage' as: "something possessed as a result of one's natural situation or birth". When you accepted Jesus as your Lord, you were reborn, a new creation. But Webster also uses the word, 'possessed' in the definition. To me that means an act on MY part... something I must do. And that 'doing' is to confirm, affirm, attest to my position as a servant of the Lord and thus entitled to His protection. 

We can walk in this as joint heirs (Romans 8:17) with Christ. A good work WAS begun in us. Live in this reality... and rejoice.

Lost your way?

Something's wrong? Perhaps your heart's a bit cold? Hurt? Where's the joy? Where's the hope? Where's the confidence? Feeling a bit low, sad, lost? Most important question - do you know why? I think we all find ourselves, from time to time, in this position. (A kind of 'aside' in this is... did we learn from the last time we were here?) So now that we've identified the issue - lost - what do we do? Since each 'lost' situation seems to have its own flavor and focus, is there anything we can utilized from previous times? 

Lost is a very uncomfortable feeling. My first question to me typically is... is this a feeling or a place (they really aren't the same and rarely are resolved in the same way)? Lost, for me, is a bit like numbness and I really intensely dislike being numb. Fortunately, there are scriptures that we can turn to to both identify what's happening and the resolution, such as:

   "Be sober [well balanced and self-disciplined], be alert and cautious at 
    all times. That enemy of yours, the devil, prowls around like a roaring 
    lion [fiercely hungry], seeking someone to devour." (1 Peter 5:8, AMP)

My questions: how am I responding? Am I balanced and self-disciplined... and, if not, what do I need to do to be in that state. Do I recognize who my enemy is and adjust my response to this? Actually, when I do this, I find myself gaining 'control' over me and my situation. (Then again, I am the analyzer type. If you're not... what will you do?)

While feelings are important and we do need to acknowledge them... we don't need to give them preeminence. We can operate in a different context, but I don't believe this is possible until we acknowledge and own how we feel. For me, my least favorite state is lost. Lost opens up so many different options of why I got there and what I can do now. So, I need to define 'lost' in this particular situation.

And I need to go to scripture for my response and scripture provides 16 verses to consider.

   "For God did not give us a spirit of timidity or cowardice or fear, but 

    [He has given us a spirit] of power and of love and of sound judgment 

    and personal discipline [abilities that result in a calm, well-balanced 

    mind and self-control]." (2 Timothy 1:7, AMP)

   "Do not fear [anything], for I am with you; Do not be afraid, for I am 

    your God. I will strengthen you, be assured I will help you; I will 

    certainly take hold of you with My righteous right hand [a hand of 

    justice, of power, of victory, of salvation]." (Isaiah 41:10, AMP)

   "Trust in and rely confidently on the Lord with all your heart and do 

    not rely on your own insight or understanding. In all your ways 

    know and acknowledge and recognize Him, and He will make your 

    paths straight and smooth [removing obstacles that block your way]." 

    (Proverbs 3: 5-6, AMP)

Reading them, reciting them, letting them sink into my spirit is how I emerge from my 'lost' condition. I need to remember the relationship I am building with the Lord and trust in Him and in it. Whenever times like these happen, cling to who you are becoming and whose you are.

Stop living like an orphan!

Actually, I can't take credit for the title. I heard this phrase while listening to a message by Pastor Shane. But goodness... this is a powerful thought! The important question is... is it true for you? Why? What is your relationship with the Father? Is it close and intimate? Is He only GOD? Do you keep Him at arm's length? Is yours the battlefront foxhole kind of relationship - you turn to Him in crisis situations but rarely in other times. Soooo how do you describe your relationship?

I would argue that too many Christians have an orphan mentality when it comes to their relationship with the Lord. Not certain why they think this... Could they feel like a full and complete commitment and involvement means they'll 'have to give up' people and activities that they don't want to but suspect they'll need to?

It's all about desire... yours!

Becoming a better me ... I do write about this a great deal because it’s so important… at least this is what I believe. I have made some discoveries regarding this subject. The first one is desire. You have to want to become your best because no one is going to do this for you! No magic wand. No words spoken over you. Just you determining, purposing in your heart to learn, to do, to become YOUR BEST! Just remember you do have a great deal of help such as study, prayer, and the work of the Holy Spirit. He's with you and He's there to do all He's supposed to do.

Read again what Jesus tells His disciples, and by extension - us:

   "And I will ask the Father, and He will give you another Helper (Comforter, 
    Advocate, Intercessor—Counselor, Strengthener, Standby), to be with you 
    forever—the Spirit of Truth, whom the world cannot receive [and take to 
    its heart] because it does not see Him or know Him, but you know Him 
    because He (the Holy Spirit) remains with you continually and will be in 
    you." (John 14:16-17, AMP)

Read, until it gets down into your spirit, the truth that... "you know Him 
because He (the Holy Spirit) remains with you continually". Knowing that as you go through the process (and it's never completed which should be of comfort - no deadlines) that the Holy Spirit in all His roles as helper, comforter, advocate, intercessor, counselor, strengthener, standby is continually with you to supply what you don't have at that moment.!

Becoming your best you starts with your desire to renew your mind. You really can't continue to become your best apart from that. There's a scripture that gives us one clue:

   "Finally, believers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable and 
    worthy of respect, whatever is right and confirmed by God’s word, 
    whatever is pure and wholesome, whatever is lovely and brings peace, 
    whatever is admirable and of good repute; if there is any excellence, 
    if there is anything worthy of praise, think continually on these things 
    [center your mind on them, and implant them in your heart]. The things 
    which you have learned and received and heard and seen in me, practice 
    these things [in daily life], and the God [who is the source] of peace and 
    well-being will be with you." (Philippians 4: 8-9, AMP)

Another component is:

   "regarding your previous way of life, you put off your old self [completely 
    discard your former nature], which is being corrupted through deceitful 
    desires, and be continually renewed in the spirit of your mind [having a 
    fresh, untarnished mental and spiritual attitude], and put on the new self 
    [the regenerated and renewed nature], created in God’s image, [godlike] 
    in the righteousness and holiness of the truth [living in a way that 
    expresses to God your gratitude for your salvation]." 
    (Ephesians 4: 22-24, AMP)

See why I consider becoming our best is a lifelong process? It can't be done overnight, but it can be begun overnight. As new challenges to your mindset arise, you meet them and overcome them because you are purposed, you become experienced, and you have a Helper! The delightful surprise is that with every victory you experience on your way increases your desire. A great way to live.

Abide

   "Remain in Me, and I [will remain] in you. Just as no branch can bear 
    fruit by itself without remaining in the vine, neither can you [bear fruit, 
    producing evidence of your faith] unless you remain in Me. I am the 
    Vine; you are the branches. The one who remains in Me and I in him 
    bears much fruit, for [otherwise] apart from Me [that is, cut off from 
    vital union with Me] you can do nothing. If anyone does not remain in 
    Me, he is thrown out like a [broken off] branch, and withers and dies; 
    and they gather such branches and throw them into the fire, and they 
    are burned." (John 15:4-6, AMP)

Do you know what 'abide' means (some translations begin this verse with 'Abide' and some with 'Remain')? To me, remain signifies a condition/state that has already been attained. So we already are in position to experience the intent of these verses - being fruitful. However, the caution is to remain/abide in this. We have to do the act consciously, intentionally. 

Also, consider the condition of those who do NOT remain. 1. we can do nothing and 2. we are thrown out where we wither and die. The end result is that we are thrown in to fire and burned. Obviously, we should not want this result. AND... we choose. The verse clearly state that WE are to remain. We choose. We can either bear fruit ... or not.

Though the word may seemingly to imply a passive state... it is not! Abiding, in my world of definitions, is very active. It is a defensive word implying protection. And it is a proactive word implying growth, activity, equipping, enhancing, etc. You don't just sit there... you act. There's another verse that springs to mind too. 

   "You have not chosen Me, but I have chosen you and I have appointed 
    and placed and purposefully planted you, so that you would go and 
    bear fruit and keep on bearing, and that your fruit will remain and 
    be lasting, so that whatever you ask of the Father in My name [as 
    My representative] He may give to you." (John 15:16, AMP)

Appointed, Placed, Planted SO that your fruit will remain... You choose: remain/abide = fruitful, don't remain/abide = thrown out, burned. Just make certain you make the decision for the right reason. The final phrase in this scripture can be a promise or seductive. Never both. Never the same reason.

You can't move in cement

While I realize that the title sounds like a 'duh'... we often don't apply that thinking. Once we, because it is we that do this, put any one or any thing in cement - they're (we're) stuck, nothing can move. Cement is not designed to be flexible, it's design so that whatever is in it won't move. Why would we ever do this to ourselves, to others, to life , let alone want to!? We have been designed to grow, to seek maturity, to become. Why wouldn't we allow this same mindset to be associated with people and with ideas and understandings. I'm not certain that we ever get to the end of understanding (fill in the blank) because there always seems to be another layer, a greater appreciation.

When you seriously consider this... the ONLY person/thing that doesn't change is God. He said He didn't change - end of discussion. 

   "Jesus Christ is [eternally changeless, always] the same yesterday 
    and today and forever." (Hebrews 13:8, AMP)

   "For I am the Lord, I do not change [but remain faithful to My 
    covenant with you];" (Malachi 3:8, AMP)

Actually, what would we want to not change... and for what reason? However, our understanding does grow, does expand as we interact and develop our relationship with the Father, Son, Holy Spirit. Relationships, human and spiritual, are designed to continue to develop. When they don't, they tend to atrophy because we don't engage with whom or what - ever. I don't think we ever learn everything about everything... which is why we need to be involved and engaged... expectant. Besides, this is the best method I've discovered to become who I can be. In cement - it's static.

Part of (my) the thinking is that when I do have something that I can count on, be assured of - like the changelessness of my foundation - then I can be bold, confident when I try to grow, to understand something I previously didn't fully grasp (even when I thought I had). But if I allow me to grow, to change, I have to accord the same option for others. I do try and not let my predispositions control and meet each interactions with openness. And yes... my preconceived ideas do get in the way at times.

I do appreciate that 'cement' gives us a way/method to order our lives and what populates and/or emerges into it. At some level we all need a way to order so that we can respond appropriately and understandably. But cement is so ... predictable and, let's be honest, boringly. What do you gain with cement? Other than a hoped for predictability... nothing! No spontaneity, no excitement, no discovering or adventure.

There's so much to learn, to discover, to share, to enjoy to allow cement to dictate. If you must have order then allow the order to shift and move. Being excited about life and those that populate yours is really much preferable. Cement blocks this. Risk living rather than only existing. Meet the 'new' with openness and anticipation. Throw open your windows!

Character

One of the very first posts I wrote (3/4/10**) was on Character... and it typically is implied in all my posts. Remember, we all are in a continuous process of developing our character. Yes, we slip, sin, err but we also discover, confirm and grow. Some of the thoughts from 2010 were:

**If there is one word that defines your 'who' it's character. There are 
    a number of attributes that describe/define character such as integrity,
    honesty, reliability, etc. However, in my world of definitions, bottom 
    line, when everything is stripped away, you are your character.  ...
** I believe that it is best displayed and seen in crisis situations. So 
    what does that look like for you? How does this define and describe 
    you?
**My questions are: If you were to meet you, would you like you? Do 
    you think you'd trust you? If you were in a place where you needed 
    assistance, would you ask you for help? If you were going to celebrate 
    something special or significant in your life, would you ask you to 
    participate? The answers to those questions disclose your character. ...
    It takes courage to face who you are - both the positive as well as the 
    negative - not just one. 

Your character can always be improved... if you are willing. But somehow, character is never stagnant. Every moment in your day you display who you are and what you think and believe and every moment is bombarded with new information that gives you options for change or confirmation.

   "And not only this, but [with joy] let us exult in our sufferings and 
    rejoice in our hardships, knowing that hardship (distress, pressure, 
    trouble) produces patient endurance;and endurance, proven 
    character (spiritual maturity); and proven character, hope and 
    confident assurance [of eternal salvation]. Such hope [in God’s 
    promises] never disappoints us, because God’s love has been 
    abundantly poured out within our hearts through the Holy Spirit 
    who was given to us." (Romans 5:3-5, AMP)

In some translations, character is described as 'virtue'. Webster has some very interesting definitions related to this word:

   "a quality that gives something special worth;conduct that conforms 
    to an accepted standard of right and wrong; strength of mind to carry 
    on in spite of danger..."

The (some) synonyms: grace, merit, value; character, decency, honesty, integrity; bravery, courageousness. As you can see, character/virtue is to be prized, is to be a standard by which we think and speak and act.

Do you think very often about your character? Can you describe, define yours? A different perspective is, if you were standing before the Lord, how would He describe you? (You do remember that that particular time will occur.)

   "For we [believers will be called to account and] must all appear before 
    the judgment seat of Christ, so that each one may be repaid for what 
    has been done in the body, whether good or [b]bad [that is, each will 
    be held responsible for his actions, purposes, goals, motives—the use 
    or misuse of his time, opportunities and abilities]. (2 Corinthians 5: 10, AMP)

We should never consider our character as unimportant. Who we are is displayed by our character and is visible to all.

**If you've never thought about yourself in terms of your character - you     
    should. Your character will be evident to others - partially from your 
    words but mostly from your behavior, it states very clearly who you are.
    Since character is visible through your actions, your words either confirm 
    or deny what you do, who you are. People, however, are more prone to 
    believe what they see, what they experience over just what you say. 
**You always are in a position of consciously, or not, refining your character. 
    Every experience impacts on who you are. 
**Are you stuck with your character? Yes, unless you consciously decide 
    to change it and are willing to honestly look at who you are, determine 
    who you want to be, and work on making the changes necessary to 
    become who you will be.

Your character is yours... all yours. You can do with it whatever you want

 

On Fire

Soooo... are you? Are you still on fire for the things of the Lord like you were when you were first saved? If not - why? The Lord hasn't lost or misplaced His passion for you, why has yours grown cold... or only lukewarm? Most important... are you concerned? Do you want your embers fanned into a fire? Are you still hungry and thirsty for the things of God?

Passion : 
   "intense, driving, or overmastering feeling or conviction,  a strong liking
    or desire for or devotion to some activity, object, or concept..." (Webster). Scripture expands our understanding: 
   "...for where your treasure is, there your heart [your wishes, your desires; 
    that on which your life centers] will be also." Matthew 6:21, AMP)

Considering both definitions we see that passion is a driving force based on a strong foundation and that it affects our wishes, desires. One of Webster's synonyms is - love. Which leads to the question... has your love for the things of the Lord grown cold? Are you doing anything to change this condition... do you want to? Do you think you even need to?

Psalms 69:9, AMP says: "For zeal for Your house has consumed me," - is this your 'condition'? How do you know? When you consider that we are supposed to be salt and light... not sure how we can do this apart from passion. Our message to the world is powerful, life changing, so how can we present this if our passion isn't engaged? 

Are you on the sidelines because you believe the lie that you can never be of use for the Lord? And goodness, you sinned after you were saved! Granted, and your point? You do remember that when you err and sin, you have a way back into relationship (1 John 1:9). We should be mature enough to know, not just realize, know that the Lord isn't surprised when this happens. Obviously, not pleased... just not surprised. And wouldn't He have considered this in advance and prepared a way to restoration? Of course. If He gave His life for us, wouldn't He want us to continue? AND, do you realize just how powerful this revelation can be for those who aren't saved? If that isn't 'shoutin' time', what is? 

I realize it may be difficult to comprehend a love that deep, that pervasive... but this is truth. Remember, He wants the best for you and He knows that He is the one that can help you to this. Maybe your issue is what to do with your passion, being on fire for the Lord? Simple. What's at your hand, or more precisely - who? You can share and display your passion about the Lord with... whoever is at hand. 

Message of Grace

A recent message by Pastor Shane was incredibly powerful. One of the insights I learned is that when we share Jesus, we are sharing a message of Grace. I hadn't thought of witnessing in this context. Everything is accomplished in Him. All we need do is believe. Believe in who Jesus was, what He did, and what He continues to do. No additions. Simply our faith. Isn't that incredible?! To become a child of God... all we need do is - believe.

   "Grace to you and peace [inner calm and spiritual well-being] from 
    God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ, who gave Himself [as a 
    sacrifice to atone] for our sins [to save and sanctify us] so that He 
    might rescue us from this present evil age, in accordance with the 
    will and purpose and plan of our God and Father—to Him be 
    [ascribed all] the glory through the ages of the ages. Amen."
    (Galatians 1: 3-5, AMP)

You did see the word 'rescue'? Our faith rescues us when our faith rests in Him. He is always the source of rescue. Rescue us from???? "... from this present evil age". But also note that this rescue is 'in accordance with the will and purpose and plan of our God and Father'. From the very beginning, there was a will/purpose/plan to rescue us. 

So what's the problem? There are a variety of reasons but I would be tempted to believe that it is because man somehow has trouble accepting that man did nothing to achieve the condition of salvation. This is what gets in the way - what man 'adds'. Remember the song... "I did it my way"? That sums up our attitude. The irony is that man does add, and it's critical. What man adds is the his faith. Knowing salvation was beyond the ability to achieve alone because of our sin nature, we seemingly have nothing to bring. But we do. It's our total reliance on Jesus as our only way. This is always our choice. But it makes ALL the difference.

Another point to remember are the words, God and Father. Too often all we see is the word 'God' and feel somewhat intimidated. We shouldn't because we have been adopted into His family... and this was not of our doing, through Jesus we become adopted into God's family. When it comes to considering the God of the universe as our Father... now other issues emerge. Seeing God as Father is typically based in our own relationship with our earthly father. Shouldn't do this. Many of us experience a wonderful relationship with our fathers and for others, it is definitely not positive, not loving. If we apply our earthly examples, we are doing an injustice to both our earthly and, especially, our heavenly Father. 

Grace to you and peace, inner calm and spiritual well-being from God is the message we bring to a hurting and lost world. As we bring this message of good news and bless others with this understanding, we are providing a path to a life filled and fruitful. Our message of Grace to others begins the process.

Adjustment???!

Have you even been in the situation in which you discovered you just might need an attitude adjustment... but in an area that you felt you had already reach an understanding about who you were and how you should act in (fill in the blank) situations? How did this make you feel? Slightly embarrassed? Irritated? Surprised? Actually, if you are the 'nothing is in cement' type, surprise should never be the reaction/response since change is not just a way of life... it is what identifies life. And from that basis, adjustment is a way of life. 

Adjustments aren't always or necessarily negatives because we don't know what the results of the new impacts will be. It really is alright. However, we do have a standard and probably a method to handle any 'new' that enters our non-cement, yet understood foundation pillars. So why get rattled when this happens? Can't speak for you, but it does happen for me. Sometimes it's a head slap kind of realization. Other times it comes as a quiet question that leads to a different thinking, mode of responding. Rarely, though occasionally, it is a back against the wall situation. Regardless... adjustment is the order of the day.

While it may be tempting to 'throw the baby out with the bathwater', don't. And you don't have to recreate the wheel either. Adjustments aren't major changes, they are tweaks. Except for your foundation, we find ourselves tweaking many areas that we thought we had the answer. And... you probably did for that moment. Things change and adapting or adopting will always be part of growth. Adjustments are our way of understanding the new that is always entering our lives. If the new doesn't require an adjustment, then it may turn into a confirmation related to (fill in the blank).

I realize that adjustment is typically preceded by the word, 'attitude'. And is typically a warning or command from someone else. Adjustments, like most of the major building blocks of our lives, are ours to determine the response. You always have the choice, decision. I quote Romans 12:2, AMP often... but it does speak to the issue:

   "And do not be conformed to this world [any longer with its superficial 
    values and customs], but be transformed and progressively changed 
    [as you mature spiritually] by the renewing of your mind [focusing on 
    godly values and ethical attitudes], so that you may prove [for yourselves]
    what the will of God is, that which is good and acceptable and perfect [in 
    His plan and purpose for you]."

If you take nothing else away from this discussion, focus on: "...be transformed and progressively changed [as you mature spiritually] by the renewing of your mind..." Renewing one's mind is a process, a never ending process - it's not one and done. And it is critical to who we are and who we become. Without renewal we live in yesteryear. 'Adjustment' is part of the renewal process. Adjustments are refinements. And, as you can see... it is we who do the doing. 

One day at a time

Remember this song? The chorus gives us one lifestyle option to consider. Do you try and practice the thought? 

   "One day at a time sweet Jesus that's all I'm asking from you
    Give me the strength to do everyday what I have to do
    Yesterday's gone sweet Jesus and tomorrow may never be mine
    So for my sake teach me to take one day at a time" 
    (Kris Kristofferson, Marijohn Wilkin)

I've tried this... multiple times. It's not easy. I'm the organizer/planner type so while I am spontaneous, I also have some sort of sketchy plan in the back of my mind. Ergo - I do plan for tomorrow on some level. And yet, I don't think this song dis's this, but it does focus our attention on our now. Do we? Are we engaged in the moments of our day... or... does the day slip away from us and at its end, if we look back, are we pleased about how we spent our moments?

It's the second line that I tend to focus on... "give me the strength to do everyday what I have to do" - strength, everyday, have to do. I suspect we all need this. But while on the surface this may appear to be a negative, that we don't have the strength, not necessarily. Equipping may be an adding, or a backup to what we already have. A new learning. We've been given so much... do we use everything that's provided?

'Everyday'... I need to be certain not to miss my day and also not to miss what's in my day. For me this means to look at what I 'want' as much as what I /have to' do. Personally, the 'have to's' are rarely a negative (even the tasks that I don't want to do) since, at days end, I have accomplished at least some of my goals (have to's) - and that, for me, is a plus. However, there is always a list of 'wanna's'. And they are equally important. They are the spice and flavoring to our day. I believe it's important to be able to look at my wanna's and see that this was also part of my day's accomplishments.

My 'every days', like yours, are precisely what I make them. They can be positives and negatives and I don't cares, and new thoughts for the future... etc. Days can be full and fruitful as well as frustrating and futile. Don't preordain your days so tightly that the unexpected doesn't have room to be present. Unexpected's can be fun, can be a warning... they are never boring - but also, never ignore them.

The lifestyle of 'one day at a time' may not be yours. However, it can be when you decide this is what you want and you define the words. You've been given life... how you spend your time really is your choice. But never just throw it away - be engaged!