An Interlude

 THOUGHT FOR TODAY

We are always stewards of our own lives. We have free will which means WE choose our who, what, when, where, and how’s of our day… and by extension - our lives.

I think that one of the first things we need to do, is remember that we never save anyone. That's really not our responsibility. What we do is to share who Jesus is in our lives, what being born again has meant for us. (This is called, giving your testimony,) We rarely give the respect our testimony can have. When we give our testimony... we are doing 2 things. Lifting up the name of our Savior and sharing how that has made a difference (never forget that we all are works in progress. 

There are a number of scriptures that point to our responsibilities:

   "But in your hearts set Christ apart [as holy—acknowledging Him, giving Him first place in your lives] as Lord. Always be ready to give a [logical] defense to anyone who asks you to account for the hope and confident assurance [elicited by faith] that is within you, yet [do it] with gentleness and respect." [1 Peter 3:15]

   " 7 So neither is the one who plants nor the one who waters anything, but [only] God who causes the growth. 8 He who plants and he who waters are one [in importance and esteem, working toward the same purpose]; but each will receive his own reward according to his own labor. 9 For we are God’s fellow workers [His servants working together]; you are God’s cultivated field [His garden, His vineyard], God’s building."  [1 Corinthians 7-9]

   "34 Jesus said to them, “My food is to do the will of Him who sent Me and to completely finish His work. 35 Do you not say, ‘It is still four months until the harvest comes?’ Look, I say to you, raise your eyes and look at the fields and see, they are white for harvest. 36 Already the reaper is receiving his wages and he is gathering fruit for eternal life; so that he who plants and he who reaps may rejoice together. 37 For in this case the saying is true, ‘One [person] sows and another reaps.’ 38 I sent you to reap [a crop] for which you have not worked. Others have worked and you have been privileged to reap the results of their work.”  [John 4:34-38]

It's just like seed planting. Some sow the Word... Some water what was sown... Some reap the watered sowed Word. Everyone has a role and is equipped, enabled, empowered by the Holy Spirit to do their part. And what an honor it is to be able to act in any capacity as the Lord's fellow workers. 

Paul said:

   "Working together with Him, we strongly urge you not to receive God’s grace in vain [by turning away from sound doctrine and His merciful kindness]. For He says, 

       “At the acceptable time (the time of grace) I listened to you,

        And I helped you on the day of salvation.”

Behold, now is “the acceptable time,” behold, now is “the day of salvation...” [2 Corinthians 6: 1-2]

The interlude? It's over. It's time for us to do all we are called to do - NOW.

[[ Lastly - if my blog post on October 7th (Reject a Gift?!!!) is something you can share with a family member, friend, … do. And if they get angry they can get angry at me rather than you. (Hmmm but it is you who shared it… that may not work. Worth a try though.). Let's face it - how much more time do we have to plant a seed or water it? I have no idea when the Lord will return, but I do feel that it is closer now than ever before, I also believe we all have people in our lives that concern us because they haven't accepted what Jesus did for them. I'm beginning to think that the hardest people to talk with are those who really are 'good' people and don't see their need. The second hardest are the 'churched' - they've gone to church all their lives and think that is sufficient (many times because the salvation message has not been preached from the pulpit).]]

Intercession and Spiritual Warfare

Have you ever given much thought to the relationship between intercession and Spiritual warfare? Is intercession a form or an expression of spiritual warfare? Do you know why you think the way you do about these 2?

I would suggest that they are highly related. And my semantics self says you need to define words - and you do. You need to know what you believe [and why]. As a counterpoint - I’m going to share what I think. I do believe that intercession is an expression of spiritual warfare but that all intercession isn’t warfare and not all warfare is intercession. 

My caveat is that I am a wordsmith on some level, words have always been important to me and I try to never use them lightly. This tends to make me a bit more intentional especially in prayer. I firmly believe in the power of the spoken word. Also, that too often we use colloquialisms and phrases such as 'I nearly died laughing' or 'that nearly killed me' without thinking about the ramifications of our words, what we are actually saying.  What about you? We all have our own unique way we pray… how often are we aware of the what and how of words? 

Do we actively seek to grow as pray-ers? What was your last important learning about prayer? I’m also quite specific when someone asks that I pray for them. While I readily agree to do so I more often than not ask the person to start the praying. Reason: the prayer of agreement is a powerful weapon we can wield. It's important to know what the other person is really asking and by them starting the prayer I can also discover if I do agree. Because if there isn’t agreement then we have another conversation. 

Is there a ‘right’ and ‘wrong’ way to pray? I doubt it. I do think that there is an effective way and a not so effective way. But what do you think and how do you act on praying?

In my not too subtle way I’m trying to remind us all that prayer is a very serious act with tremendous potential power - which is my definition of fervent, effective prayer. We never should enter into it cavalierly or lightly. It is such an honor and relief to know we can always turn to the Lord in prayer: seeking and asking and knocking. He said He would always be with us. The Word says that every good gift comes from the Father. So?????

Intercession is always available to help a brother or sister in need. Spiritual Warfare is also a powerful way of praying for/with that brother or sister... especially when we have our armor on! 

WHO am I???

WHAT does the Lord want OF, FROM ME???!!!!! I've faced the same question many times... and expect to continue to face it as I become the person the Lord's always seen in me. These 2 questions can be said in frustration... in demand... in humility and I suspect other ways. When you become born again/saved - yes the Lord accepts us just as we are, but I highly doubt He expects us to just stay there. Remember Ephesians

   "For we are His workmanship [His own master work, a work of art], created in Christ Jesus [reborn from above—spiritually transformed, renewed, ready to be used] for good works, which God prepared [for us] beforehand [taking paths which He set], so that we would walk in them [living the good life which He prearranged and made ready for us]." [2:10]

To me that means growth, change, improvement, etc. All that is a good thing. I believe He wants us to succeed with Him, not thinking of doing it apart from Him. He wants relationship with us... but allows us to choose this as well.

If you want specifics, I think Jesus gave us our greatest command - that really does take intentional behavior and words from us. He said:

   "And Jesus replied to him, “‘You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, and with all your soul, and with all your mind.’ This is the first and greatest commandment. The second is like it, ‘You shall love your neighbor as yourself [that is, unselfishly seek the best or higher good for others].’ [Matthew 22:36-39]

While it may appear 'easy', the doing isn't always easy. Unconditional is the watchword. 

There are other scriptures that talk about who we are and what we should be about.

   "And now, Israel, what does the Lord your God require from you, but to fear [and worship] the Lord your God [with awe-filled reverence and profound respect], to walk [that is, to live each and every day] in all His ways and to love Him, and to serve the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul [your choices, your thoughts, your whole being], and to keep the commandments of the Lord and His statutes which I am commanding you today for your good?"  [Deuteronomy 10:12-13]

   "For I desire and delight in [steadfast] loyalty [faithfulness in the covenant relationship], rather than sacrifice, And in the knowledge of God more than burnt offerings." [Hosea 6:6]

Not a lot of expectation from us by the Lord? Doesn't look like it but these words from Matthew, Deuteronomy, and Hosea are attitudes, mindsets, ways of speaking and acting. We don't naturally default to these words and behaviors. It takes intentional understanding and acting for them to be who we are and what we do. The unmitigated wonder is that He is always with us to help us be this who and what.

Reject a Gift?!!!

Would, Have you ever rejected a gift? Have you ever said that the gift wasn’t wanted… needed… not ‘worth’ it? Goodness! Why would anyone reject a gift? 

Is it an issue of who’s in control? Maybe it’s an issue of values - the world’s or the Bible’s? However, many people do reject the gift and for a myriad of reasons. How about you? Have you rejected the gift of salvation, of eternal life with the Lord and all those who have accepted His gift? How many times have you said: 'not now', 'maybe later', 'why should I'? Basically you have to believe with every fiber of your being that you are right and I am wrong! Do you? What if you are wrong....

   "Working together with Him, we strongly urge you not to receive God’s grace in vain [by turning away from sound doctrine and His merciful kindness]. For He says, 'At the acceptable time (the time of grace) I listened to you, And I helped you on the day of salvation.'

Behold, now is 'the acceptable time,' behold, now is 'the day of salvation'—" [2 Corinthians 6:1-2]

But… you say you don’t need the gift? Are you certain? What if you’re wrong? What if I’m right?! What makes you so wise to disregard the Lord’s outstretched hands to you? Look at what you stand to lose - eternity with the Lord, your family, and friends who have chosen to accept His gift. And you have chosen the opposite because both exist - heaven and hell - and one or the other are our ultimate destination. 

The Lord will never force you to accept His gift, God doesn’t send you to Hell (and simply because you don’t believe in heaven and hell doesn’t make it less true). God has shown great restraint … and yes, for you 

   "The Lord does not delay [as though He were unable to act] and is not slow about His promise, as some count slowness, but is [extraordinarily] patient toward you, not wishing for any to perish but for all to come to repentance." [2 Peter 3:9]. 

But there will come that moment and then it will be too late. The point is that when you reject Him you choose Hell. It’s YOU who determines your ultimate destination. And YES... it is this serious.

If you scoff and say that my source (Bible) for my belief is flawed. Really! Are you willing to place your trust in man's alternative? 

(actually 2 flawed reasons: one, that if there is a God, He would never consign His creation (presupposing He created us v. evolution) to Hell... if there is such a place or two - that all there is is now, when you die it's over)

Just suppose, for a moment, that you could be wrong and I could be right... what if?

What’s ‘personal’???

Prior to, at the point of acceptance, and continuing - ‘they’ are always talking about a personal relationship with the Lord. I really love that concept … BUT no one ever says what ‘personal’ means: what it looks like, how it feels, what the expectations are, HOW you do this, etc. Do you believe a relationship is really a real thing or that it's church-ese? It can become quite frustrating because if you don’t know what it is, how will you ever know if you’ve attained it?!!! OK... enuf drama. But - the point, the questions are still valid. Do YOU know what your personal relationship with the Lord is? Is it static? Is it continuing to grow? 

WHY do you think you have or don't have a relationship? And if you point to being worthy - forget that designation because none of us are. Worthiness isn't the point. I believe the Father has always wanted a relationship with His creation. 

   "Then God said, “Let Us (Father, Son, Holy Spirit) make man in Our image, according to Our likeness [not physical, but a spiritual personality and moral likeness]; and let them have complete authority over the fish of the sea, the birds of the air, the cattle, and over the entire earth, and over everything that creeps and crawls on the earth.” So God created man in His own image, in the image and likeness of God He created him; male and female He created them. And God blessed them [granting them certain authority] and said to them, “Be fruitful, multiply, and fill the earth, and subjugate it [putting it under your power]; and rule over (dominate) the fish of the sea, the birds of the air, and every living thing that moves upon the earth.” So God said, “Behold, I have given you every plant yielding seed that is on the surface of the entire earth, and every tree which has fruit yielding seed; it shall be food for you; and to all the animals on the earth and to every bird of the air and to everything that moves on the ground—to everything in which there is the breath of life—I have given every green plant for food”; and it was so [because He commanded it]. God saw everything that He had made, and behold, it was very good and He validated it completely. And there was evening and there was morning, a sixth day." [Genesis 1: 26-31]

When you read further you'll read that God walked with Adam and Eve in the cool of the day (Genesis 3). If all this doesn't speak of the Father's desire to be in relationship with His creation... what will? 

If you return to the argument that man isn't worthy... read 2 Corinthians 5

   "17 Therefore if anyone is in Christ [that is, grafted in, joined to Him by faith in Him as Savior], he is a new creature [reborn and renewed by the Holy Spirit]; the old things [the previous moral and spiritual condition] have passed away. Behold, new things have come [because spiritual awakening brings a new life]. 18 But all these things are from God, who reconciled us to Himself through Christ [making us acceptable to Him] and gave us the ministry of reconciliation [so that by our example we might bring others to Him], 19 that is, that God was in Christ reconciling the world to Himself, not counting people’s sins against them [but canceling them]. And He has committed to us the message of reconciliation [that is, restoration to favor with God]. 20 So we are ambassadors for Christ, as though God were making His appeal through us; we [as Christ’s representatives] plead with you on behalf of Christ to be reconciled to God. 21 He made Christ who knew no sin to [judicially] be sin on our behalf, so that in Him we would become the righteousness of God [that is, we would be made acceptable to Him and placed in a right relationship with Him by His gracious lovingkindness]."

Read verse 21 again: He made Christ who knew no sin to [judicially] be sin on our behalf, so that in Him we would become the righteousness of God [that is, we would be made acceptable to Him and placed in a right relationship with Him by His gracious lovingkindness].

When our Lord pronounced 'It is Finished' - our separation from God was bridged and now we have the opportunity [because it is always our decision] to accept this gift of reconciliation that Jesus provides. This provides the foundation for developing your personal definition of relationship with the Lord and talking with Him about it - it never is one-sided. Relationship is also never static... you're in for a wonderful adventure!

Happy… Pleased?

Let me ask you a question… are you ‘happy’ (your definition), pleased with you and who you are becoming? Is your becoming constantly (again, your definition) growing in understanding?

   "Do not turn away from her (Wisdom) and she will guard and protect you;

Love her, and she will watch over you. The beginning of wisdom is: Get [skillful and godly] wisdom [it is preeminent]! And with all your acquiring, get understanding [actively seek spiritual discernment, mature comprehension, and logical interpretation]. [Proverbs 4:6-8]

 

When you look at who you were 6 months ago in comparison to now, do you see a refining? Is this the you, you want to be? Are you taking time to:

   "Study and do your best to present yourself to God approved, a workman [tested by trial] who has no reason to be ashamed, accurately handling and skillfully teaching the word of truth. But avoid all irreverent babble and godless chatter [with its profane, empty words], for it will lead to further ungodliness,..."

[2 Timothy: 2:15-16]

The context is you as a Christian. I’m not judging you but you should judge you. Judging isn't a negative, actually it's the best friend to 'study' because it focuses on discovering what you know which leads to discovering what you need to know. How many times does it say in scripture - examine. Scripture doesn’t say that as an accusation, it is reminding us that we live in a fallen world and sin resides at our doorstep just waiting to trip us up.

   "Therefore humble yourselves under the mighty hand of God [set aside self-righteous pride], so that He may exalt you [to a place of honor in His service] at the appropriate time, casting all your cares [all your anxieties, all your worries, and all your concerns, once and for all] on Him, for He cares about you [with deepest affection, and watches over you very carefully]. 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. But resist him, be firm in your faith [against his attack—rooted, established, immovable], knowing that the same experiences of suffering are being experienced by your brothers and sisters throughout the world. [You do not suffer alone.]   (1 Peter 5:6-9)

Did you notice how many times the word 'all' was used? I believe it's deliberate because we need to see the vastness of the Lord's 'all' - it's no little thing. These verses start with telling us what we need to do, then why, then what we receive when we do. It then points to our adversary and what he tries to do, then to what we can do and what is established when we do, and ends these verses with the commonality we who unite under the banner of Jesus have.

I started this little discussion with the title: Happy... Pleased? So ... are you? Minimally you should feel that you are not walking alone. We may get lonely occasionally but we are never alone. That fact alone should bring a sense of belonging. And the attribute of belonging goes a long way in describing 'happy' and 'pleased'.  

The Accuser

 As I was praying this morning and being quite irritated that the devil is still up to his tricks of saying to the Father, who knows ALL things, the things we do each day that are incriminating against us. Can you hear the glee in the devil's voice as he reiterates them? Stop for just a moment and begin to realize that this is precisely what the devil does to the Father, the Triune God... against Him to us! Isn't the doubt that springs uninvited the devil's voice accusing God to us? Of course it is! Had I realized this?... of course I didn't. For a smart person I don't always put 2 and 2 together to reach 4. Silly really.

Since the devil is not creative, all he can do is repeat what he sees, hears from us. And we are great at providing ways we go about spreading 'fake news', deceit, lies, gossip, etc. Plus, some of us have a master's degree in shooting ourselves in the foot! For just a moment look at how the devil uses his wiles. When he comes against us with doubt... what are we doubting? Is it a 'thing' or is it a person? or is it an interpretation of scripture? Is it another person? Or is it a combination of all of the above? Yep - all, and some I haven't indicated.

I've also noticed that he uses our former selves against us... especially when it comes to the Word that tells us:

   "He has not dealt with us according to our sins [as we deserve], Nor rewarded us [with punishment] according to our wickedness.

For as the heavens are high above the earth, So great is His lovingkindness toward those who fear and worship Him [with awe-filled respect and deepest reverence].

As far as the east is from the west, So far has He removed our transgressions from us.

Just as a father loves his children, So the Lord loves those who fear and worship Him [with awe-filled respect and deepest reverence]." [Psalm 103: 10-13]

We may longingly look at these verses, but do we accept them as the truth they are or do we listen to the voice that tells us... we really have committed the unpardonable sin... or do you think God cares so much for you that He would allow the travesty you committed to go unpunished... or do you really believe He has forgiven you - don't forget His words when He said that He was a jealous God (Exodus 34:14). And those are only some of the arguments the devil will use. Do you actually accept what the devil is saying? He does know scripture and how to use it against us or against the Lord.

I find myself totally irritated with myself when I discover I have bought into one of the devil's lies. Really, I should be more mature. I should do what scripture teaches:

   " Beloved, do not believe every spirit [speaking through a self-proclaimed prophet]; instead test the spirits to see whether they are from God, because many false prophets and teachers have gone out into the world. By this you know and recognize the Spirit of God: every spirit that acknowledges and confesses [the fact] that Jesus Christ has [actually] come in the flesh [as a man] is from God [God is its source]; and every spirit that does not confess Jesus [acknowledging that He has come in the flesh, but would deny any of the Son’s true nature] is not of God; this is the spirit of the antichrist, which you have heard is coming, and is now already in the world." [1 John 4:1-3] 

This gives us the what [test] and the answer. How much more do we need to defeat the accuser not only of ourselves but of the Lord?! And if you are accusing the accuser... to whom? God already knows. Why not defeat the devil the same way Jesus did - It Is Written! - and tell him NO! We really can resist the devil and not become ensnared with his attempts to defeat us, accuse us, or accuse the Lord. 

Closed?

 Closed... perhaps a definition wouldn’t go amiss. In this context (and yes, I know I haven’t provided a context - I will) - this is more of a: if you aren’t defining words, especially big words, how I learned and understood them and it's contrary to what you are saying -  then you’re wrong! Context: scripture and how we are and do Christianity. May I gently suggest that if your ‘teacher’ was a human then there’s every possibility they, you could be wrong... or if there's a 'not completely right' category, then that designation. Also… I really think scripture can easily defend itself - typically by providing other scriptures that confirm it.

A couple of things I've learned: never, as in ever, assume your definition is a one and done - there could be layers to understanding. Don't ever be arrogant about what you know (or think you know). Practice the attitude of an attentive student. Contemplate what you receive if you are 'closed' - when you don't allow questions or challenges or opportunities to expand your understandings. 

Obviously, there are aspects that should be a 'close' such as the fact that Jesus was fully human and fully God. 

   "Beloved, do not believe every spirit [speaking through a self-proclaimed prophet]; instead test the spirits to see whether they are from God, because many false prophets and teachers have gone out into the world. By this you know and recognize the Spirit of God: every spirit that acknowledges and confesses [the fact] that Jesus Christ has [actually] come in the flesh [as a man] is from God [God is its source]; and every spirit that does not confess Jesus [acknowledging that He has come in the flesh, but would deny any of the Son’s true nature] is not of God; this is the spirit of the antichrist, which you have heard is coming, and is now already in the world." [1 John 4:1-3]

That there aren't many paths to God. He has made it abundant clear that there's only one, [1] way to God and that is through His Son, Jesus. That the Bible is a love story from God to His creation, His people. That the Bible has everything that speaks to His creation (us) living, working, who we are, how we should go about being us, etc. That the Holy Spirit is the one who determines and gives us our gifting. I could on in this vein, but I think the context makes it especially blatant. There are certain obvious issues that are settled, that are closed. But closed doesn't mean you can't ask questions. When our motivation is understanding, I don't believe this angers God. 

I ask you what you believe is 'closed'. It's important to know the foundation for what we believe, why we believe, and what we do about our belief. Closed can mean a way of sharing eternal truths are are immutable because that identifies our foundation. Closed is only an unfortunate choice when the subject is one that doesn't have universal definition based in scripture. I believe that Closed mean a security of finality.

Seed

 Should I have written an 's' at the end? 

   "While the earth remains, Seedtime and harvest, Cold and heat, Winter and summer, And day and night Shall not cease.” [Genesis 8:22]

   [Jesus parable teaching] "... a sower went out to sow [seed in his field]; and as he sowed, some seed fell beside the road [between the fields], and the birds came and ate it. Other seed fell on rocky ground, where they did not have much soil; and at once they sprang up because they had no depth of soil. But when the sun rose, they were scorched; and because they had no root, they withered away. Other seed fell among thorns, and thorns came up and choked them out. Other seed fell on good soil and yielded grain, some a hundred times as much [as was sown], some sixty [times as much], and some thirty. He who has ears [to hear], let him hear and heed My words.” " [Matthew 13:3b-9] 

HOWEVER, for understanding read verses 10-14.

   "but God [all the while] was causing the growth. So neither is the one who plants nor the one who waters anything, but [only] God who causes the growth. He who plants and he who waters are one [in importance and esteem, working toward the same purpose]; but each will receive his own reward according to his own labor. For we are God’s fellow workers [His servants working together]; you are God’s cultivated field [His garden, His vineyard], God’s building." 

[1 Corinthians 3: 6b-9]

There are other scriptures that discuss seed(s), roles, etc. Actually my question is - if you are seed scattering... what are you scattering? Most of the time we seem to focus on having seeds, being in the role based on where the person you are talking with seems to be, but what about how we speak depending on where that person is? Do we know what we can/should share? Or do you think I'm overthinking? 

Another way of looking at this is ... how do You do evangelism? If your response is that being an evangelist is not your calling. Not the question. Isn't every Christian called to be a spokesman, an Ambassador for Jesus, to share the Good News? At least my Bible says we all are. You may not be called to the office of an evangelist, but everyone is called to share the saving news.

   "But in your hearts set Christ apart [as holy—acknowledging Him, giving Him first place in your lives] as Lord. Always be ready to give a [logical] defense to anyone who asks you to account for the hope and confident assurance [elicited by faith] that is within you, yet [do it] with gentleness and respect. And see to it that your conscience is entirely clear, so that every time you are slandered or falsely accused, those who attack or disparage your good behavior in Christ will be shamed [by their own words]. For it is better that you suffer [unjustly] for doing what is right, if that should be God’s will, than [to suffer justly] for doing wrong." [1 Peter 3:15-17]

Typically all we hear is the second sentence in 1 Peter 3: 15. But these 2 verses are so much more. Verse 15 gives us our grounding, our confidence to speak. At the end of the verse is the manner in which we should share. Verse 16 is an 'examination' verse - we need to know what our relationship is how it's supposed to be because this also affects how and what we share. Verse 17 may seem to be a hard pill to swallow but we aren't alone in this - look at all the people who have gone before us that thought Jesus was far more important than our 'justice'.

Never forget that your words, your behavior, how you go about being and doing you are all visible seeds. They may also be a comfort for fellow Christians who need confidence. Did you ever consider that you are a seed?

THE Name

JESUS

Some call Him Master... so do I. Some call Him Savior... so do I. Some call Him Lord... so do I. His name is - JESUS.

As the song says… ‘There’s just something about that name… Master, Savior…. Jesus, like the fragrance after the rain.” Is that what you think when you hear - Jesus? Do you follow the descriptions scripture provides? 

One interpretation [karengirlfriday.com] says:

   "We describe Jesus as: love, mercy, peace, hope, grace, truth, freedom, kindness, joy, victory."

She also uses scripture to 'flesh out' the descriptions. I have no problem with her delineation... it begins our understanding. But the Bible is rich from Genesis through Revelation in it's descriptions. The Bible is really all about Jesus, all about who He is, what He does, how He does it, what it represents for us. I'm not going to indicate all of the descriptions, but I do want to highlight a few of them to show us the FULLNESS of Jesus.

1. Savior - Acts 4:10-12

   "Let it be known and understood by all of you, and by the whole house of Israel, that in the name and through the power and authority of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, Whom you crucified, [but] Whom God raised from the dead, in Him and by means of Him this man is standing here before you well and sound in body. This [Jesus] is the Stone which was despised and rejected by you, the builders, but which has become the Head of the corner [the Cornerstone]. And there is salvation in and through no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given among men by and in which we must be saved."

There may be many paths to get to Jesus, but once there - there is no other path! He is The Way... The Truth... and The Light. John 14:6 says:

   "Jesus said to him, I am the Way and the Truth and the Life; no one comes to the Father except by (through) Me."

This puts a period. These verses give us the foundation for Jesus and relationships.

2. High Priest - Hebrews 4:14-16

   "Inasmuch then as we have a great High Priest Who has [already] ascended and passed through the heavens, Jesus the Son of God, let us hold fast our confession [of faith in Him]. For we do not have a High Priest Who is unable to understand and sympathize and have a shared feeling with our weaknesses and infirmities and liability to the assaults of temptation, but One Who has been tempted in every respect as we are, yet without sinning. Let us then fearlessly and confidently and boldly draw near to the throne of grace (the throne of God’s unmerited favor to us sinners), that we may receive mercy [for our failures] and find grace to help in good time for every need [appropriate help and well-timed help, coming just when we need it].

Jesus is still interceding on our behalf. He is still involved when we come to Him for mercy and grace.

3. Purpose for Coming. lay down divinity, purpose in John 3:16+. 

I don't know about you, but I definitely have difficulty getting my head around the fact of knowing that I would be tortured and killed. Yet that is exactly what our Lord knew and did.

   "For God so [greatly] loved and dearly prized the world, that He [even] gave His [One and] only begotten Son, so that whoever believes and trusts in Him [as Savior] shall not perish, but have eternal life." [John 3:16]

I doubt that there's anyone that doesn't know this verse - believer and non-believer alike. But this verse is only the beginning. Too often we aren't even aware of the verses that come next.

"For God did not send the Son into the world to judge and condemn the world [that is, to initiate the final judgment of the world], but that the world might be saved through Him. Whoever believes and has decided to trust in Him [as personal Savior and Lord] is not judged [for this one, there is no judgment, no rejection, no condemnation]; but the one who does not believe [and has decided to reject Him as personal Savior and Lord] is judged already [that one has been convicted and sentenced], because he has not believed and trusted in the name of the [One and] only begotten Son of God [the One who is truly unique, the only One of His kind, the One who alone can save him]. This is the judgment [that is, the cause for indictment, the test by which people are judged, the basis for the sentence]: the Light has come into the world, and people loved the darkness rather than the Light, for their deeds were evil. For every wrongdoer hates the Light, and does not come to the Light [but shrinks from it] for fear that his [sinful, worthless] activities will be exposed and condemned. But whoever practices truth [and does what is right—morally, ethically, spiritually] comes to the Light, so that his works may be plainly shown to be what they are—accomplished in God [divinely prompted, done with God’s help, in dependence on Him].” [v.17-21]

The NAME of Jesus is powerful and provides us with truth... because HE is the way and the life.

 

The Fullness of Thankful

    “I am so thankful that l have a joy that the world can not rob me of; I have a treasure that the world can not take from me; I have something that is not in the power of man or devil to deprive me of, and that is the joy of the Lord.”

Those words were spoken by D.L. Moody. His thoughts spoke to me and resonated. My question… how full is our thankfulness! Can we say we are FULL of thanksgiving? Do we look at our joy and treasure with eyes of thankfulness? And... how do you express your thankfulness?

Those aren't idle questions. They really go to the heart of who we are and how we see the Lord's hand in our lives. The words in Hebrews tell us:

   "Therefore let us [with privilege] approach the throne of grace [that is, the throne of God’s gracious favor] with confidence and without fear, so that we may receive mercy [for our failures] and find [His amazing] grace to help in time of need [an appropriate blessing, coming just at the right moment]."  [4:16]

You really can't come with this attitude, assurance if you don't know the person you are coming to and the relationship you have together. This speaks of a confidence that you know and appreciate who you seek... plus knowledge based in experience. 

There's also a parable in Luke that's relevant:

   " Then He said to them, “Suppose one of you has a friend, and goes to him at midnight and says, ‘Friend, lend me three loaves [of bread]; for a friend of mine who is on a journey has just come to visit me, and I have nothing to serve him’;  and from inside he answers, ‘Do not bother me; the door has already been shut and my children and I are in bed; I cannot get up and give you anything.’ I tell you, even though he will not get up and give him anything just because he is his friend, yet because of his persistence and boldness he will get up and give him whatever he needs." [Luke 11:5-8]

For the person asking, seeking this parable implies a relationship that he knows he will receive from his friend what is needed. Now take that same thought, that same attitude and apply it to when you seek the Lord. Do you come with confidence based on your relationship?

Back to Moody's words. He is speaking with confidence and knowledge of his relationship with the Lord. And he is telling us that it brings him such joy that he is full of thankfulness. Personally... I want that depth, breath of relationship with Jesus that I know that I can always come. And with outstretched hands He is welcoming me. Joy! Priceless.

   "And do not be worried, for the joy of the Lord is your strength and your stronghold." [Nehemiah 8:10b]

Boundaries

Who’s in charge of your boundaries and limits? Are you? If you are a Christian, is it the Word? Does your job place limits on you? How about your family? Maybe those boundaries and limits are impacted (determined) by your income, your education or training or experience? How about your character? The people you associate with? Your behavior? I could continue to create the list of those aspects that influence those limits and boundaries. Some are easily answered… some not so much.

Back to the first question… regardless of what or where your boundaries are - who sets them? And equally important- did you first give them the authority to do so? Do they have your best interests at heart? Do you trust ‘them’? What does scripture say about boundaries? 

According to 'Got Questions':

   "A boundary is a “dividing line.”  ...  In interpersonal relationships, a boundary is what divides one person from another, so that each can have separate identities, responsibilities, and privileges. A boundary creates necessary “space” between individuals. Healthy boundaries define expectations and show respect for others.

Biblically speaking, boundaries are related to self-control. The Bible commands us to control ourselves, whereas our human nature desires to control others (Titus 2:12). If left unchecked, our natural desires run roughshod over others. Personal boundaries help to limit our selfish inclination to control or manipulate others. Likewise, boundaries protect us from those who have no self-control and who wish to control us. A person with clear, healthy boundaries communicates to others what is and is not permissible, saying, in effect, “This is my jurisdiction, and you have no right to interfere.”

Help limit... protect us. This is what boundaries are designed to do. They aren't there for show. And while they limit our selfishness... they also protect us from those who wish to control us. We use strong words to define boundaries. Quoting Got Question's response: "Boundaries can be used in healthy ways and sinful ways. The way to know which boundaries are godly is to examine the motive." And therein lies the rub - motive. 

Our motives are the facilitators of boundaries. They also guide us when we don't use them as excuses.

   "Proper boundaries aid believers in keeping out worldly influences. (2 Corinthians 6:14). Simply, we are not to embrace the world’s way of doing things (James 4:4). Boundaries are about taking responsibility for our own lives. God gives us freedom to choose to live within His boundaries or outside of them, and to live outside of God’s boundaries means to accept the consequences. Living inside God’s boundaries brings blessing, and living outside of them brings destruction and death (Romans 6:23)."

I couldn't have said it better... Got Questions gives us concepts to consider as we develop our boundaries. I would hazard a guess that if we don't set our own boundaries with scriptural help, others will attempt to set them for us. As Christians we have a freedom than only a Jesus follower has because we aren't without His help to create boundaries that enable not bind.

Ready?

   " Therefore, be on the alert [be prepared and ready], for you do not know the day nor the hour [when the Son of Man will come]." [Matthew 25:13]

He will return. He said so, scripture says so and in a number of places. It never was an 'if', it's always been a 'when'. Then again... maybe you don't believe in the rapture of the church...? Granted, the word is not in scripture, but what is it Thessalonians say?

   "For we say this to you by the Lord’s [own] word, that we who are still alive and remain until the coming of the Lord, will in no way precede [into His presence] those [believers] who have fallen asleep [in death]. For the Lord Himself will come down from heaven with a shout of command, with the voice of the archangel and with the [blast of the] trumpet of God, and the dead in Christ will rise first.  

Then we who are alive and remain [on the earth] will simultaneously be caught up (raptured) together with them [the resurrected ones] in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air, and so we will always be with the Lord! Therefore comfort and encourage one another with these words [concerning our reunion with believers who have died]. [1 Thessalonians 4:15-18]

The Amplified does go back to the original and describe 'caught up' as raptured. Do you not believe in this? Have you chosen to ignore one of the greatest events in Christianity? And if your argument is that we will go through the tribulation... then how do you explain:

   "But since we [believers] belong to the day, let us be sober, having put on the breastplate of faith and love, and as a helmet, the hope and confident assurance of salvation. For God has not destined us to [incur His] wrath [that is, He did not select us to condemn us], but to obtain salvation through our Lord Jesus Christ, who died [willingly] for us, so that whether we are awake (alive) or asleep (dead) [at Christ’s appearing], we will live together with Him [sharing eternal life].

[5:8-10]

It does not say we will have to endure His wrath for a season... or for the duration of the display of God's wrath. If you decide you know best and skip over the 'rapture'... then on to the second coming? Consider the following verses:

1. Matthew 24:36–44

“But concerning that day and hour no one knows, not even the angels of heaven, nor the Son, but the Father only. For as were the days of Noah, so will be the coming of the Son of Man.  

2. Luke 21:25–28

“And there will be signs in sun and moon and stars, and on the earth distress of nations in perplexity because of the roaring of the sea and the waves, people fainting with fear and with foreboding of what is coming on the world. For the powers of the heavens will be shaken. And then they will see the Son of Man coming in a cloud with power and great glory. 

3. John 5:28–29

Do not marvel at this, for an hour is coming when all who are in the tombs will hear his voice and come out, those who have done good to the resurrection of life, and those who have done evil to the resurrection of judgment. 

4. 1 Thessalonians 4:16–17

For the Lord himself will descend from heaven with a cry of command, with the voice of an archangel, and with the sound of the trumpet of God. And the dead in Christ will rise first. Then we who are alive, who are left, will be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air, and so we will always be with the Lord. 

5. Revelation 1:7

Behold, he is coming with the clouds, and every eye will see him, even those who pierced him, and all tribes of the earth will wail on account of him. Even so. Amen.  

6. Hebrews 9:27–28

And just as it is appointed for man to die once, and after that comes judgment, so Christ, having been offered once to bear the sins of many, will appear a second time, not to deal with sin but to save those who are eagerly waiting for him.  

7. Matthew 24:26–31

“So, if they say to you, ‘Look, he is in the wilderness,’ do not go out. If they say, ‘Look, he is in the inner rooms,’ do not believe it. For as the lightning comes from the east and shines as far as the west, so will be the coming of the Son of Man. Wherever the corpse is, there the vultures will gather.

Immediately after the tribulation of those days...

8. 1 Thessalonians 5:1–3

Now concerning the times and the seasons, brothers, you have no need to have anything written to you. For you yourselves are fully aware that the day of the Lord will come like a thief in the night. While people are saying, “There is peace and security,” then sudden destruction will come upon them as labor pains come upon a pregnant woman, and they will not escape. Read More

9. 1 Corinthians 15:51–52

Behold! I tell you a mystery. We shall not all sleep, but we shall all be changed, in a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trumpet. For the trumpet will sound, and the dead will be raised imperishable, and we shall be changed. R 

10. John 14:1–3

“Let not your hearts be troubled. Believe in God; believe also in me. In my Father’s house are many rooms. If it were not so, would I have told you that I go to prepare a place for you? And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again and will take you to myself, that where I am you may be also.”  

 The credit for this compilation belongs to Crossway. They also go into further depth on each of these points.

So... are you challenged, confirmed or confused? The days we live in now point even stronger that we are so very close - and yes, I know every century seems to say this. Does it matter? Yes. How will the Lord find us when He comes because it is unmistakable He is returning. I remember my Mom being concerned about this. She didn't feel worthy enough (this was over 37 years ago since she found her answer). The scripture

   

   "But He replied, ‘I assure you and most solemnly say to you, I do not know you [we have no relationship]." [Matthew 25:12]

I have no doubt that Mom found her answer: I think, without a doubt that she discovered her concern answered as she found herself in the presence of the Lord. 'Doing things' for the Lord really does come after our relationship with Him. He seeks worshippers (John 4:24). He seeks! Can we not do our part in this? He tells us what He wants...

   "Therefore I urge you, brothers and sisters, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies [dedicating all of yourselves, set apart] as a living sacrifice, holy and well-pleasing to God, which is your rational (logical, intelligent) act of worship."  [Romans 12:1]

Are you ready?

Christian

Do you understand what you are saying when you say you are a Christian?! You have just aligned yourself with Jesus and who He says He is. You are also His representative. Does what you say or do (or don’t do) reflect Him and His who/what/how? Or, is your representing only what you deem important? Is ‘can’t’ a quick response from you?

Being a Christian isn't for cowards. Being a Christian does mean that you live in a kind of a fishbowl in that with your proclamation you now are visible and your words and actions take on a heightened meaning. You can't be OF the world and still be a Christian.

   "If the world hates you [and it does], know that it has hated Me before it hated you. If you belonged to the world, the world would love [you as] its own and would treat you with affection. But you are not of the world [you no longer belong to it], but I have chosen you out of the world. And because of this the world hates you. Remember [and continue to remember] that I told you, ‘A servant is not greater than his master.’ If they persecuted Me, they will also persecute you. If they kept My word, they will keep yours also. But they will do all these [hurtful] things to you for My name’s sake [because you bear My name and are identified with Me], for they do not know the One who sent Me."  [John 15:18-21]

Though there are other scriptures that talk about the Christian being IN the world but not OF it. But these verses in John paint a more complete picture. Our allegiance, identification with Jesus marks us out. And yes, it isn't always easy but look at what you receive with your identification!

In 1 Peter, he is telling the reader:

   "Come to Him [the risen Lord] as to a living Stone which men rejected and threw away, but which is choice and precious in the sight of God. You [believers], like living stones, are being built up into a spiritual house for a holy and dedicated priesthood, to offer spiritual sacrifices [that are] acceptable and pleasing to God through Jesus Christ.  [1 Peter 2: 4-5]      ...

Why?

   "But you are a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a consecrated nation, a [special] people for God’s own possession, so that you may proclaim the excellencies [the wonderful deeds and virtues and perfections] of Him who called you out of darkness into His marvelous light. Once you were not a people [at all], but now you are God’s people; once you had not received mercy, but now you have received mercy."   [1 Peter 2:9-10]

Do you that you are being built up? Are you grasping the opportunity and growing to offer spiritual sacrifices? Have you accepted the identity offered? Do you feel you are chosen? Chosen to be a royal priesthood, a consecrated nation, a special people to proclaim the excellencies of Him who called you out of darkness into light? This is how Peter describes Christian. What are you doing to embody this identity?

What you need to realize is the potentiality that is offered you. Then again... I have difficulty imagining a small c -Christian. Do they really exist? Or have they simply not stepped up and said - 'Here am I... with my mouth I confess and with my heart I believe.'

 

Distance

 Recently I heard a friend's testimony and she referred to the '16 inches'. Explaining further she said it can be the most difficult distance there is. It's not just a distance between head and heart - it's a lifestyle. Further intrigued I came across this:

   "The distance between the head and the heart, in terms of physical location in the body, is roughly 18 inches, according to some sources. However, when referring to the distance between the mind and the emotions, it is often described as the longest journey a person can take, emphasizing the difficulty of translating intellectual understanding into heartfelt action."

I have to credit the unknown Google source for this statement. And yet.... there can be a long journey between head and heart. Some of us are mind based. We use the mind as our filter. Others are emotion driven and it's their feelings that determine their filter. I have a feeling that it is a combination of both head and heart for most people. Do you know which of the 3 defines you?

Quoting Google again:

   "In some spiritual contexts, the 18 inches can be interpreted as the difference between intellectual belief and genuine faith. It suggests that true transformation and connection with a higher power requires more than just mental assent; it requires a heart-felt commitment, according to some sources."

In case there's any doubt... the 'higher power' is God. So how does scripture say about these two forces within us? Does scripture suggest a preference? How did Jesus respond to this 'tug'? When Jesus was with His disciples Peter asked Him about the explanation of one of His parables that might give us His view:

   "But whatever [word] comes out of the mouth comes from the heart, and this is what defiles and dishonors the man. For out of the heart come evil thoughts and plans, murders, adulteries, sexual immoralities, thefts, false testimonies, slanders (verbal abuse, irreverent speech, blaspheming). These are the things which defile and dishonor the man;” [Matthew 15:18-20a]

   "... For the mouth speaks out of that which fills the heart. The good man, from his [inner] good treasure, brings out good things; and the evil man, from his [inner] evil treasure, brings out evil things." [Matthew 12:34b-35]

I think that's why we hear the plea in Psalm 51:10

   "Create in me a clean heart, O God, And renew a right and steadfast spirit within me."

We do know but do we? Do we realize what happened when we were born again? Not just the wonderful gifts that the Lord planned for those who accepted Him but us - who we are, who we can become... what we can do. What is crucial for us to realize is that for some of us we need to close the 18 inches gap between head and heart. But also, we don't do this alone - the Lord is always available to assist us. Now look at John and what we receive in this process:

   "...He who believes in Me [who adheres to, trusts in, and relies on Me], as the Scripture has said, ‘From his innermost being will flow continually rivers of living water." [John 7:38]

The distance shortened we become carriers of living waters for others in order to give them a cup of cold water.

Examine... next: ALL facets

 For a 'Part 2' I'm going to set out a list of questions/statements and then try and speak to each.

  1. ALL facets of one's person need to be included

  2. Who you are that you are seen as

  3. Who do you want to be remember as

  4. What you are willing to pay to grow and not grow

  5. The connection between desire and fact

  6. The connection between calling and fact

I think I would argue that the first step in 'examine' is identifying. All of who you are. The good. The not so good. The definite bad. We all have these in our DNA and definitely in our character. I suspect that we lament as Paul did - do read all of these verses, but I'm going to highlight certain parts in light of our 'examining' Romans 7:15-25

   "15 For I do not understand my own actions [I am baffled and bewildered by them]. I do not practice what I want to do, but I am doing the very thing I hate [and yielding to my human nature, my worldliness—my sinful capacity].  ...

18 For I know that nothing good lives in me, that is, in my flesh [my human nature, my worldliness—my sinful capacity]. For the willingness [to do good] is present in me, but the doing of good is not. 19 For the good that I want to do, I do not do, but I practice the very evil that I do not want. 20 But if I am doing the very thing I do not want to do, I am no longer the one doing it [that is, it is not me that acts], but the sin [nature] which lives in me. ...

22 For I joyfully delight in the law of God in my inner self [with my new nature], 23 but I see a different law and rule of action in the members of my body [in its appetites and desires], waging war against the law of my mind and subduing me and making me a prisoner of the law of sin which is within my members. 

24 Wretched and miserable man that I am! Who will [rescue me and] set me free from this body of death [this corrupt, mortal existence]? 25 Thanks be to God [for my deliverance] through Jesus Christ our Lord! So then, on the one hand I myself with my mind serve the law of God, but on the other, with my flesh [my human nature, my worldliness, my sinful capacity—I serve] the law of sin."

This is what we all have to deal with. Part of our warfare is really internal - with ourselves. The point should be - we are NOT alone in this battle. Read again verses 24-25. Do you see that we are aided in this by the Lord? He wants to engage with us - not do it to us. Remember He has created us with Free Will, and that is no small thing, He will always allow us to make our decision. I would also suggest that this is so fundamental, so crucial to our relationship as well as to who we are becoming, that we can't treat this cavalierly. We don't just toss a prayer in the air: Please God help me (fill in the blank) and then go merrily on our way. 

Which leads to point 1: ALL facets of one's person need to be included. I would argue that we have bought into a mindset that tells us we learn more from our mistakes. While we DO learn from our mistakes, we also learn from our successes. How can we build on a strong foundation (success) is as valuable as learning what not to do. Let me ask you - how often do you assess, examine your successes? Do you use them as a basis for further success? Are we going to throw away those words, actions, mindsets, etc. that do work? And our logic????

Examining our who, what, why, when, how is crucial to our growth but it's all of us and as the old song goes... '... you gotta accent the positive, eliminate the negative...' Sometimes our greatest understandings come from analyzing our positives - it definitely makes easier our ability and understanding to analyze our negatives and improve and learn from them.

A force to be reckoned with

Do you realize that is a description of YOU? You know that you were wonderfully and fearfully made … that the God of the universe breathed the breath of life into you which means that He breathed some of Himself into you. Now the only question is - what are you doing with your earthly inheritance?

One extremely easy thing to do is to discover if those around you are in fact saved when they say they are. They could be operating under, what I consider, one of the greatest lies satan has every perpetrated. Church going does not necessarily mean someone is saved even though they may think so. 

   "Jesus answered, “I assure you and most solemnly say to you, unless one is born of water and the Spirit he cannot [ever] enter the kingdom of God. That which is born of the flesh is flesh [the physical is merely physical], and that which is born of the Spirit is spirit. Do not be surprised that I have told you, ‘You must be born again [reborn from above—spiritually transformed, renewed, sanctified].’ The wind blows where it wishes and you hear its sound, but you do not know where it is coming from and where it is going; so it is with everyone who is born of the Spirit.” [John 3:1-8]

Jesus is who said this! Shouldn't we follow what He says rather than what man has proposed? Jesus went on to teach:

   "For God so [greatly] loved and dearly prized the world, that He [even] gave His [One and] only begotten Son, so that whoever believes and trusts in Him [as Savior] shall not perish, but have eternal life. For God did not send the Son into the world to judge and condemn the world [that is, to initiate the final judgment of the world], but that the world might be saved through Him. Whoever believes and has decided to trust in Him [as personal Savior and Lord] is not judged [for this one, there is no judgment, no rejection, no condemnation]; but the one who does not believe [and has decided to reject Him as personal Savior and Lord] is judged already [that one has been convicted and sentenced], " [v 16-18a]

This should be crystal clear with no misunderstandings. If, however, further proof is needed there is always the writings in Romans 3, 5, 6, 10

   "... since all have sinned and continually fall short of the glory of God,
[3:23]
  " For the wages of sin is death, but the free gift of God [that is, His remarkable, overwhelming gift of grace to believers] is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord" [6:23]

   "But God clearly shows and proves His own love for us, by the fact that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us."

[5:8]

   "... if you acknowledge and confess with your mouth that Jesus is Lord [recognizing His power, authority, and majesty as God], and believe in your heart that God raised Him from the dead, you will be saved. 

For with the heart a person believes [in Christ as Savior] resulting in his justification [that is, being made righteous—being freed of the guilt of sin and made acceptable to God]; and with the mouth he acknowledges and confesses [his faith openly], resulting in and confirming [his] salvation."

[10:9-10]

   " For “whoever calls on the name of the Lord [in prayer] will be saved.”

[10:13]

We can also add the words spoken by Peter on the day of Pentecost when the Holy Spirit descended:

   " And there is salvation in no one else; for there is no other name under heaven that has been given among people by which we must be saved [for God has provided the world no alternative for salvation].”

[Acts 4:12]

Now, in any of those words from the Lord say anything about Church going? Yes, in another part of scripture it does tell us not to forsake the gathering together (Hebrews 10:25), but that is the gift we get the pleasure of enjoying after salvation. 

Church going, fellowshipping is important for us all. It's where we learn, grow, get healed, understood, share our gifting and so much more. But it is what comes from salvation. Salvation is the beginning. And most certainly is a force to be reckoned with when applied. So how do you know if the person sitting next to you is saved? A very simple question. Turn to them and ask - would you share your testimony with me... testimonies always encourage me in my here on earth journey. If they won't then 10 times out of 10 they aren't saved and you have a chance to be a seed planter - share your testimony.

Not Right

Have you ever been in a season where you felt that if it were possible to do the wrong thing or say the wrong thing (especially to the wrong person) that you were in this time? That it seems no matter what you are engaged in - it all goes plop? Do you feel like you are running after yourself, apologizing for whatever you did that you shouldn't have? Yep! Been there too... and I seem to be back there - again. 

Now what? What is it you can do?

I might suggest that one of the first things to do is to review - was there something you should have done that you didn't or haven't yet? Or, conversely, something you did do that you shouldn't have but that you've done nothing to reconcile that? However, there are also those times that you really can't do or say anything, it is your changed behavior that needs to be in evidence (which always requires time). 

Saying 'sorry' when there's no change in behavior (stemming from a changed attitude) is only words. I also believe that if this is typical and recognized behavior is usually dismissed by others as well.

The point? There are times in our lives when you can feel like running away and hiding. Persevering is probably the only thing that can be done. But... what is persevering? According to one source

   "In a scriptural context, persevering means to steadfastly continue in faith and practice despite trials, temptations, and difficulties. It's about maintaining a course of action, holding firmly to a purpose, and not giving up in the face of adversity. It encompasses endurance in faith, obedience to God, and a commitment to remain devoted even when faced with hardship." [Google]

Look at: maintaining, holding firmly, not giving up, endurance, obedience, commitment. Perhaps it's a time of testing? This is a dig deep time. It's a time to 'strengthen the arms that hang down'. Persevering is crucial. And in doing this we should analyze what is going on. Are we in a time of teaching? Are we in a time of applying our learning? Are we being chastised (this is not necessarily punishment - our attitude about this makes the difference)?

Not right? Perhaps... but maybe it's so much more - an opportunity to stop and know the who, what, why, when, and how we are who we are in our world.