Day Eighteen: Speaking of Grace

Before You Begin:  Read Acts 13:13-41

            In Pisidian Antioch

From Papos, Paul and is companions sailed to Perga in Pamphylia, where John left them to return to Jerusalem. From Perga they went on to Pisidian Antioch. On the Sabbath they entered the synagogue and sat down. After the reading from the Law and the Prophets, the leaders of the synagogue sent word to them, saying, “Brothers, if you have a word of exhortation for the people, please speak.”

Standing up, Paul motioned with his hand and said: “Fellow Israelites and you Gentiles who worship God, listen to me! The God of the people of Israel chose our ancestors; he made the people prosper during their stay in Egypt; with mighty power he led them out of that country; for about forty years he endured their conduct in the wilderness; and he overthrew seven nations n Canaan, giving their land to his people as their inheritance. All this took about 450 years.

“After this, God gave them judges until the time of Samuel the prophet. Then the people asked for a king, and he gave them Saul son of Kish, of the tribe of Benjamin, who ruled forty years. After removing Saul, he made David their king. God testified concerning him: “I have found David son of Jesse, a man after my own heart; he will do everything I want him to do.”

“From this man’s descendants God has brought to Israel the Savior Jesus, as he promised. Before the coming of Jesus, John preached repentance and baptism to all the people of Israel. As John was completing his work, he said: “Who do you suppose I am? I am not the one you are looking for. But there is one coming after me whose sandals I am not worthy to untie.”

“Fellow children of Abraham and you God-fearing Gentiles, it is to us that this message of salvation has been sent. The people of Jerusalem and their rulers did not recognize Jesus, yet in condemning him they fulfilled the words of the prophets that are read every Sabbath. Thought they found no proper ground for a death sentence, they asked Pilate to have him executed. When they had carried out all that was written about him, they took him down form the cross and laid him in a tomb. But God raised him from the dead, and for many days he was seen by those who had traveled with him from Galilee to Jerusalem. They are now his witnesses to our people.

“We tell you the good news: What God promised our ancestors he has fulfilled for us, their children, by raising up Jesus. As it is written in the second Psalm:

            “You are my son; today I have become your father.”

“God raised him from the dead so that he will never be subject to decay. As God has said, “I will give you the holy and sure blessings promised to David.”

So it is also stated elsewhere:

                        “You will not let your holy one see decay.”

“Now when David had served God’s purpose in his own generation, he fell asleep; he was buried with his ancestors and his body decayed. But the one whom God raised from the dead did not see decay.

“Therefore, my friends, I want you to know that through Jesus the forgiveness of sins is proclaimed to you. Through him everyone who believes is set free from every sin, a justification you were not able to obtain under the law of Moses. Take care that what the prophets have said does not happen to you:

“Look, you scoffers, wonder and perish, for I am going to do something in your days that you would never believe, even if someone told you.”

Stop and Consider: “Therefore, my friends, I want you to know that through Jesus the forgiveness of sins is proclaimed to you. Through him everyone who believes is set free from every sin, a justification you were not able to obtain under the law of Moses.

Questions Asked of Me: Rather than guilt and compulsion, what should be our real motivation for having a word of Christian testimony ready for any occasion or opportunity?

For me, it was never about guilt or compulsion for the overwhelming urge to help others know they are not alone. I want everyone to know just how bad things were for me when Jesus found me because if He can help me in my situations; He can certainly help you where you’re at. My motivation now is to be the spokesperson He created me to be and be happy cheering about it no matter the content…but focusing on the outcome. The zeal I have for sharing my testimony is not for my benefit or to any credit of my own but to give Him all the glory and help others to see that in the process.

Evangelism is certainly bigger than any one method or model. What are some of the ways God has uniquely gifted you to be able to share your confidence in His saving grace?

Share my confidence? Hmmmm….. He gave me the personality that He gave me; the same personality that led people to do things as far from Jesus as possible is now the personality that I hope to lead others to doing what He has planned for them. I am transparent in Him. I am open to the point of scary but it is the outcome being what it is that allows me to share what Jesus brought me from. Don’t get me wrong; He somehow gave me confidence while I was going through these trials but being on the other side it is easy to share that confidence of His saving grace. I love the opportunity to show others that things like that don’t just happen in the bible; they happen now and they happen to people like me.

Detour: One of the first things I participated in at my church back home was something called “Discover Your Style”. It is an all-day class that is organized to help you discover your spiritual gifts; creative communication, prison ministry, hospitality, building, serving, and evangelism to name a few. There were a series of questions and there was one set in particular that I was slow to respond to. We were to list four great things that happened in our lives; things we were proud to share. Then we were to list four not-so-great things on the next page; things that we would rather not have happened and would be happy if no one really knew about them.

We weren’t asked to say them out loud; it was strictly for our benefit. But the next page was the one that shocked me most. Of the eight things we previously listed, we were now asked to list the four areas in which Jesus was working in us; the times in our life that we knew Jesus was going to use for His glory. My list was the same as my “not-so-great” list. I realized then that Jesus wasn’t looking to use me in the areas of my college degrees or the birth of my children but He was already using me to talk about brokenness, “Prodigal Son” moment, breast cancer, and DUIs.

Another segment of the class was determining our most prominent spiritual gift; my best friend high on the list of hospitality and prayer warrior. When a show of hands determined who was what, I quickly realized that I was the only one that had the spiritual gift of Evangelism. I freaked out. I immediately thought it meant that my answers to loads of questions had somehow determined that I wanted to go “door to door” talking about Jesus. Um… nope.

The instructor was quick to tell me that it didn’t mean that at all but simply meant that I was a “Cheerleader for Jesus.” Whew…. Yes, THAT IS ME. And the rest as they say… is history. <wink>

Praying God’s Word Today: Lord Jesus, I pray that I will no longer be held captive to fear but will rather set You apart as Lord in my heart, always being ready to give a defense to anyone who asks for a reason for the hope that is in me. But may I do this with gentleness and respect, keeping my conscience clear, so that when I am accused, those who denounce my Christian life will be put to shame (1Peter 3:14-16). May Your grace cover all!

1Peter 3:14-16

But even if you should suffer for what is right, you are blessed. “Do not fear their threats; do not be frightened.” But in your hearts revere Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect, keeping a clear conscience, so that those who speak maliciously against your good behavior in Christ may be ashamed of their slander.

Wow….my scripture that I felt you handpicked for me. Wow.

Dear Jesus:

I am grateful for every gift You have given me; even the ones I questioned initially. I am grateful for all that has happened to me in the “not-so-great” column because I know that You can do great things through those stories. Thank You for allowing me to see the good through the yucky. Thank You for showing me just how captive I was when I thought I was so free. Please continue to allow me to see just how awesome You are even when I am going through some things where most wouldn’t see it that way.

I am excited to see all of the echoes and confirmations that You give to me; even in this entry. Beth Moore pulling out 1Peter is the scripture that I KNOW You handpicked for me. This scripture is the tagline for this blog which is also a gift from You and a gift I hope others benefit from as much I do.

I know my motivation for sharing my testimony because it is YOUR testimony through me. Thank You for this great opportunity to be proof for someone that grace is given every day; to those not looking for it, not deserving of it, and not earning it…. because we don’t have to, it isn’t possible, and we can’t.

Love,

Me

Day Seventeen: Exposing the Enemy

Before You Begin:  Read Acts 13:4-12

            On Cyprus

The two of them, sent on their way by the Holy Spirit, went down to Seleucia and sailed from there to Cyprus. When they arrived at Salamis, they proclaimed the word of God in the Jewish synagogues. John was with them as their helper.

They traveled through the whole island until they came to Paphos. There they met a Jewish sorcerer and false prophet named Bar-Jesus, who was an attendant of the proconsul, Sergius Paulus. The proconsul, an intelligent man, sent for Barnabas and Saul because he wanted to hear the word of God. But Elymas the sorcerer (for that is what his name means) opposed them and tried to turn the proconsul from faith. Then Saul, who was also called Paul, filled with the Holy Spirit, looked straight at Elymas and said, “You are a child of the devil and an enemy of everything that is right! You are full of all kinds of deceit and trickery. Will you never stop perverting the right ways of the Lord? Now the hand of the Lord is against you. You are going to be blind for a time, not even able to see the light of the sun.”

Immediately mist and darkness came over him, and he groped about, seeking someone to lead him by the hand. When the proconsul saw what happened, he believed, for he was amazed at the teaching about the Lord.

Stop and Consider: “You are a child of the devil and an enemy of everything that is right! You are full of all kinds of deceit and trickery. Will you never stop perverting the right ways of the Lord?

Questions Asked of Me: Wow. Now that’s calling ‘em like you see ‘em. Is there a time when we should be this direct in our rebuke of someone? Are we sometimes guilty of being too nice?

Yes, I have been too nice so as not to offend or seem like a “Jesus Freak.” Definitely not something I am proud of but had completely forgotten this story of Paul and needed the reminder. I know how he was raised but how was he given such strength and authority for Jesus’ name so quickly? He clearly possessed something that I didn’t at his “Coming to Jesus” moment.

I know that Jesus has used my personality to work for His glory since accepting Him but, even having been reminded of this part of Paul’s journey, would I have the courage to “call it like I see it” as quickly and as readily as He did? I am a spokesperson for Him; a Cheerleader for Jesus but do I do as much as I know He wants of me? I would have to answer that perhaps I don’t but I also don’t think I am in too many places to be put into that position…maybe that is another part of the equation; not putting myself out there enough for Him. I will work on that.

What are some methods the Devil uses to try keeping the clear message of God’s Word from getting through to us? How are we to challenge and overcome these obstacles?

Just like the Devil’s visit to the Garden of Eden; he shines doubt on everything Jesus promises to us through His Word. He paints it in a different light and skews it to benefit him; clearly telling us that the easier, wrong decision is the better choice to make most immediately. If we are constantly in His Word we cannot be touched by Satan or his ‘assistants.’ He can’t distort the clear message of Jesus if we stay out of his way. He can’t skew Jesus’ words to be something they are not without being given the opportunity.

How does it help to know that a real enemy is engaged in battle against you, an actual foe who is seeking to deceive and distract you? Rather than suffering endless pangs of guilt over your inconsistency or weakness of character, does it strengthen your muscle to know that your acts of obedience are blows against Satan’s army? This is war! Wanna fight?

Praying God’s Word Today:  We heed Your call, Lord, to be sober, to be on alert! For our adversary the Devil is prowling around like a roaring lion, looking for anyone he can devour. May we resist him, Lord, firm in faith, knowing that the same sufferings are being experienced by our brothers in the world – knowing, too, that You, the God of all grace, who called us to Your eternal glory in Christ Jesus, will personally restore, establish, strengthen, and support us after we have suffered a little (1Peter 5:8-10).

Dear Jesus:

Thank you for picking me to be on Your team. I am so glad to know that no matter how hard Satan tries to get to me, You are there. I am sure he was pretty excited when I hid from You. I know that he thought it was only a matter of time before I slipped back to my old ways; but You knew better. Thank you for being there for me when I decided to be obedient and follow You as I knew I should have from the beginning. I know that You have never taken me anywhere that You weren’t already there. Give me the strength to stand up for Your name in any situation and give me courage to seek those that don’t know what You are capable of. I know that with all that I have gone through, it pales in comparison to what You know I am strong enough to go through. Thank you.

Love,

Me

Day Sixteen: On Mission

Before You Begin:  Read Acts 13:1-3

            Barnabas and Saul Went Off

Now in the church at Antioch there were prophets and teachers: Barnabas, Simeon called Niger, Lucius of Cyrene, Manaen (who had been brought up with Herod the tetrarch) and Saul. While they were worshiping the Lord and fasting, the Holy Spirit said, “Set apart for me Barnabas and Saul for the work to which I have called them.” So after they had fasted and prayed, they placed their hands on them and sent them off.

Stop and Consider:  While they were worshiping the Lord and fasting, the Holy Spirit said, “Set apart for me Barnabas and Saul for the work to which I have called them.”

Questions Asked of Me: When you are just not certain what direction God is leading you, how do you go about discerning His will? What have you learned about this process by experience?

Quite frankly, the first thing I do is reach out to my parents and my best friend Lynnette. I explain to them the situation that I am unsure about and we talk together. No decisions are ever really made but they are eager to pray with and for me; as well as helping me to discern more readily the scenario that Jesus puts me in. Moving to Nineveh was such a scenario.

We prayed for my husband to get a permanent job instead moving from one 6month contract job to another. A year ago we prayed for a job in aerospace. He landed BOTH in a land far away from what I was comfortable with…in Nineveh.

It was months that I heard Jesus pulling me there to follow but I couldn’t be sure; probably because I didn’t want to be sure. I just knew my purpose was to be serving my church and ministry that He had already led us to and to write with my friend and go to conferences together. I needed to discern….was it possible that my purpose was in Michigan and Robbe’s was in Nineveh? Jesus would never do that but the alternative was not something I wanted.

I learned that it is more than talking about His will and praying about it. I have learned that when you pray for an answer and get that answer, you also need to live by and abide that answer. I can’t keep praying until I get the answer I want and the way I want it. I knew months before moving that it was His will for me….for us. I also knew that just because I was a Christian now, didn’t mean that I wasn’t still susceptible to pouting and putting things off.

I now know (and probably always did) that no matter what you pray for, or ask guidance about, or try to discern….you must always be willing to listen (not just hear) to what Jesus and those you trust are telling you, and be obedient. Dragging your feet where Jesus is concerned is not an option…. Just ask Jonah.

How deeply does the call to reach nations affect your praying, your heartbeat, and your church’s reason for being? How could this priority increase in intensity for you?

I haven’t had a desire to reach other nations but I do pray for our church members that go there to bring the Word of God to them and to show them the community spirit that our church feels for them. I learned this morning that our new church is about community and bringing people to God but not sure of their reach to other nations. It probably could be an increase in intensity for me but as of now I don’t feel led to reach out beyond my community. But, I am certain if Jesus decides that needs to change, I will be the first to know and act on that newfound intensity.

Praying God’s Word Today: You say to us, “Pay attention to Me, My people, and listen to Me, My nation; for instruction will come from Me, and My justice for a light to the nations. I will bring it about quickly. My righteousness is near, My salvation appears, and My arms will bring justice to the nations. The coastlands will put their hope in Me, and they will look to My strength” (Isaiah 51:4-5). Lord, I want to be part of this great work in our day, in whatever fashion You desire. “Speak, for Your servant is listening” (1Samuel 3:10).

Dear Jesus:

You say jump and I ask “How high?” As long as I feel like jumping. But when You said “Move”, I asked “Are You sure?” And then when you said “Move”, I asked “Really, Jesus? But You have set everything up for me here and things are going so well.” I’m sorry for that. I don’t feel compelled to travel and spread Your Word to other nations and I say I would go if you asked me to, but would I? I would pray and prepare and raise money for those that would feel compelled to go, but is that enough? This is a question not yet posed to me before but one I wholeheartedly THINK I would embrace if You told me.

I do want to be a part of this great work in our day, in whatever fashion You desire but when it comes right down to it, I run the opposite direction or stop moving altogether. My intentions and work for You are true. My love for You is unquestionable. Am I ready to be considered for something as big as “other nations”? Or could those other nations be right here at home where others have slowly begun to express their need for You but just not knowing how to get to You?

I will pray about this and speak to my parents and Lynnette. I will do my best to discern what Your will is for me and I promise to try harder to be the person You intended me to be at ALL times and not just when it is something that interests me.

I will be the cheerleader and spokesperson You created me to be. If that means I enroll in Rosetta Stone to learn another language…just give me a little heads up.

Love,

Me

Day Fifteen: Righteous Renegades

Before You Begin:  Read Acts 11:19-36

            The Church in Antioch

Now those who had been scattered by the persecution that broke out when Stephen was killed traveled as far as Phoenicia, Cyprus and Antioch, spreading the word only among Jews. Some of them, however, men from Cyprus and Cyrene, went to Antioch and began to speak to the Greeks also, telling them the good news about the Lord Jesus. The Lord’s hand was with them, and a great number of people believed and turned to the Lord.

News of this reached the church in Jerusalem, and they sent Barnabas to Antioch. When he arrived and saw what the grace of God had done, he was glad and encouraged them all to remain true to the Lord with all their hearts. He was a good man, full of the Holy Spirit and faith, and a great number of people were brought to the Lord.

Then Barnabas went to Tarsus to look for Saul, and when he found him, he brought him to Antioch. So for a whole year Barnabas and Saul met with the church and taught great numbers of people. The disciples were called Christians first at Antioch.

Stop and Consider: Some of them, however, men from Cyprus and Cyrene, went to Antioch and began to speak to the Greeks also, telling them the good news about the Lord Jesus.

Questions Asked of Me: What experiences have you had with people who take bold risks to share the faith of the gospel? Do they make you feel guilty? Annoyed? Suspicious? Challenged?

I hear great things that great people are doing in not so great areas; just to get Jesus’ name out there. I even hear great things about everyday people doing amazing things in not so great areas; and yet it wasn’t me. I feel challenged but am I challenged enough to do something about it? Every time I don’t think it possible to do something; that dang Jesus shows up and points out exactly how I can do something. I love writing this blog but sometimes I feel it is me being transparent but in a safe place. I know the people looking at this blog are Christians or open to the idea of Christianity but am I sharing my faith of the gospel with others I am not so sure about?

I have. I think I did that this time last year but it isn’t something you put on a “To Do” list and once it is done you don’t have to worry about approaching it again and I know that… but what am I doing about it.

I have a secret to reveal in my “Detour” section that follows. Soooo excited. A bit “renegade” ….but excited.

What kind of difference would you love to see your church make in your community? How could you be part of God’s plan in following through on this desire?

I wish I could answer this question but being SUPER new to the community of “Nineveh” and even newer to my church, I wouldn’t have a clue what to hope or pray for. BUT…. I have committed to Jesus to be part of his plan by simply getting “plugged in” as quickly as we have, but I can’t take credit for any of it.

A phone call to an area church before moving here just because I can see it from our apartments was purely logistical. A visit to a larger church like what we were used to was by design and comfort level and just enough for my husband Robbe in the six months before I followed him here; Jesus’ involvement behind the scenes for each scenario of course.

But, getting plugged in was a necessity and one I ‘think” I would have followed up on for sure. Just as I said I was going to call the church office I phoned before moving here… but I didn’t get around to it. Jesus decided not to leave it to chance and must have gotten tired of waiting because she “just happened” to call me this afternoon; following up. Of course she was.

Needless to say, I don’t know the needs of the community and I don’t know what our new church is or is not doing….yet. But I DO know that we are now connected with the right people at the right church and are committed to doing what we need to be a part of something bigger than ourselves. AND, if that benefits others in the community…. Even better.

Those who took God’s Word to the streets remind us that adversity gives our faith a place to shine. What can you do to keep your faith sharp in advance of its greatest challenges? How can you ensure that struggles will not lead you to doubt but to daring deeds?

It is my opinion  that the best thing we can do to keep our faith sharp is to stay connected with those that are looking to do the same thing. “Although one may be overpowered, two can defend themselves, a cord of three strands is not quickly broken.” Ecclesiastes 4:12

Just as I went down a bad path by following the wrong people, it is nearly guaranteed to be a good path when following the right people; or perhaps even leading…depending on the situation and the plan that Jesus has laid out before us. Another way to deter struggles leading to doubt instead of daring deeds is to be transparent in what we are going through with friends Jesus has put in our path. If we are encouraged and also do the encouraging; we can be stronger together for His purpose instead of isolation and doubt. I am excited at the opportunity and to prove this theory with the new people Jesus continues to put in my path daily….even in Nineveh.  =)

Detour: When asked before about people taking bold risks, sharing the faith of the gospel I answered that I felt challenged, and I do… but I also don’t feel prepared to meet the challenge; or so I thought. I was asked to write an inspirational, business driven blog about Avon; being a new Representative. I wrote the blog and will continue to do so but it has taken a direction all its own.

For me, being an Avon representative is more than playing dress up and that is the gist of my blog in its entirety. I am going to be blogging beauty tips, product information, business hints, and inspiration; inside and out. As I wrote the first blog something began to happen…. Jesus showed up and reminded me that this was yet another opportunity that He had put in my path; an opportunity to make new friends in my area, offer them great skin care and makeup products, and share the opportunity of becoming a representative and begin their own home business. BUT what I didn’t realize was that this new blog was also going to be an opportunity to share the faith of the gospel to those that may not already have a relationship with Him. What??

No one was more surprised than me but when I wrote my second blog today it hit me. The one book that I turn to for advice, proof, and confirmation for my Avon business AND in real life is the bible. I was assigned to read a book on inspiration and business and share what I learned with other Avon representatives for them to improve their “business” as well.

This is more than improving businesses but a way that Jesus has given to me to be bold and take a risk. I have been given this challenge that I didn’t think I was ready for but Jesus seems to think that Nineveh and Avon are the best ways for me to practice living boldly for Him so I am doing just that.

Who knows? Maybe this blog that is written for Avon can reach someone that is looking for success. Someone that is struggling with more than selling makeup and skin care but looking for answers in all the books except for the one I use daily. If just one person reads and gets something more than beauty tips from this other blog (www.morethanplayingdressup.blogspot.com ), I am certain that Jesus won’t quit challenging me with other opportunities to take risks for Him.

Praying God’s Word Today: We are aware, Lord, that during times of hardship and cultural deception, the people who know their God will be strong and take action. Those who are wise among the people will give understanding to many (Daniel 11:32-33). May we not be those who are lulled to sleep by the times or driven to despair. May we instead be like warriors in battle trampling down the mud of the streets, fighting because You, Lord, are with us (Zechariah 10:5).

Dear Jesus:

I know that there are many people going through many things. I know that you want those that have a relationship with You and have put our faith in You to show them a way out by living as a Christian. Thank you for the challenges and opportunities that you have given to me lately.  I am scared of the unknown but know that You would not put me in a position that You are not already there.

The things that I have gone through in the past are not a shame to You but proof of what You can do with ANYONE. Please continue to give me the strength You give and remind me that no matter what we have gone through, those that call ourselves Christians were not given the gift of Your love and salvation to keep to ourselves but to share with those that are unaware of what is out there.

I am ready to take some risks and live boldy for You; more boldly than I think I have been by just “preaching to the choir”. Thank You for trusting me with those that are still lost as I was and for allowing me the chance to make a difference for You.

Love,

Me

Day Fourteen: Season of Suffering

Before You Begin:  Read 2Corinthians 11:22-33

Paul Boasts about His Sufferings

Are they Hebrews? So am I. Are they Israelites? So am I. Are they Abraham’s descendants? So am I. Are they servants of Christ? (I am out of my mind to talk like this.) I am more. I have worked much harder, been in prison more frequently, been flogged more severely, and been exposed to death again and again. Five times I received from the Jews the forty lashes minus one. Three times I was beaten with rods, once I was pelted with stones, three times I was shipwrecked, I spent a night and a day in the open sea, I have been constantly on the move. I have been in danger from rivers, in danger from bandits, in danger from my fellow Jews, in danger from Gentiles; in danger in the city, in danger in the country, in danger at sea; and in danger from false believers. I have labored and toiled and have often gone without sleep; I have known hunger and thirst and have often gone without food; I have been cold and naked. Besides everything else, I face daily pressure of my concern for all the churches. Who is weak, and I do not feel weak? Who is led into sin, and I do not inwardly burn?

If I must boast, I will boast of the things that show my weakness. The God and Father of the Lord Jesus, who is to be praised forever, knows that I am not lying. In Damascus the governor under King Aretas had the city of Damascenes guarded in order to arrest me. But I was lowered in a basket from a window in the wall and slipped through his hands.

Stop and Consider:  I have been in danger from rivers, in danger from bandits, in danger from my fellow Jews, in danger from Gentiles; in danger in the city, in danger in the country, in danger at sea; and in danger from false believers.

Questions Asked of Me: Have you been through seasons when it felt like the floodgates were open, when trouble was coming from all directions? What do you think God expects of us in times like these?

I think everyone has but, speaking personally… OH, have I ever. Not everyone has the literal “Coming to Jesus” moment that leads to complete surrender but that is exactly where I was; and it was the floodgates wide open and broken off that humbled me and brought me to my knees. And I think that is what God expects.

Don’t get me wrong; accepting Jesus does not mean that those floodgates don’t ever reappear but it DOES mean that WHEN they do…I am not alone. It DOES mean that He will give me the tools and resources and people….to get through it; to get through ANYTHING. One of these days, via this blog, I will share my story completely…in living color and HD as to the extent of those floodgates and just how amazing a relationship with Jesus is at times like that….no matter how long those times last; minutes, days, weeks, months, or years.

Having been there, what are the best ways to help others who are going through their own odysseys of suffering? Think of someone who could use your encouragement today.

Leading by example. Jesus did it for Paul, Paul did it for me, perhaps I can do it for someone else. It is always easier to jump after seeing someone else jump. Since finding Jesus, I have realized that part of my purpose is to be transparent and to help others see the intimate relationship that is possible with Jesus and what can be attained through that relationship. It is hard to open up, especially when you aren’t sure how that honesty will be received. BUT the best way to help others who are going through their own sufferings is to share the sufferings, and their results, that you have also been put through but use the outcome for His glory.

Praying God’s Word Today: I rejoice today that You are protecting us by Your power through faith for a salvation that is ready to be revealed in the last time, though now for a short time we have had to be distressed by various trials. May the genuineness of our faith – more valuable than gold, which perishes though refined by fire – result in praise, glory, and honor at the revelation of Jesus Christ. (1Peter 1:5-7)

Dear Jesus:

No one knows more than You just how much I rejoice and what I have had to rejoice over. The power of Your salvation has been life-changing for me; and I don’t say that lightly. I love how Beth Moore clarifies our time on earth is “a short time we have had to be distressed by various trials”….making our issues seem so miniscule and small. They are …even if they don’t feel so miniscule as we go through them. I personally know that I have You to thank for that.

You know my trials. You were there when those floodgates opened, and opened wide. But You knew the results and were worried about none of it. As much as I would like to know the ending of all my trials AND triumphs, I guess it is good enough to know You know the ending and it all works out for a reason.

No matter the season; fair weather or dark….You have it all under control and I WILL have genuine faith in You; for myself and as an example to others that are weathering their own season.

Love,

Me



Day Thirteen: Pride and Prejudice

Before You Begin:  Acts 10:9-28

Peter’s Vision

About noon the following day as they were on their journey and approaching the city, Peter went up on the roof to pray. He became hungry and wanted something to eat, and while the meal was being prepared, he fell into a trance. He saw heaven opened and something like a large sheet being let down to earth by its four corners. It contained all kinds of four-footed animals, as well as reptiles and birds. Then a voice told him, “Get up, Peter. Kill and eat.”

“Surely not, Lord!” Peter replied. “I have never eaten anything impure or unclean.”

The voice spoke to him a second time, “Do not call anything impure that God has made clean.”

This happened three times, and immediately the sheet was taken back to heaven.

While Peter was wondering about the meaning of the vision, the men sent by Cornelius found out where Simon’s house was and stopped at the gate. They called out, asking if Simon who was known as Peter was staying there.

While Peter was still thinking about the vision, the Spirit said to him, “Simon, three men are looking for you. So get up and go downstairs. Do not hesitate to go with them, for I have sent them.”

Peter went down and said to the men, “I’m the one you’re looking for. Why have you come?”

The men replied, “We have come from Cornelius the centurion. He is a righteous and God-fearing man, who is respected by all the Jewish people. A holy angel told him to ask you to come to his house so that he could hear what you have to say.” Then Peter invited the men into the house to be his guests.

Peter at Cornelius’s House

The next day Peter started out with them, and some of the believers from Joppa went along. The following day he arrived in Caesarea. Cornelius was expecting them and had called together his relatives and close friends. As Peter entered the house, Cornelius met him and fell at his feet in reverence. But Peter made him get up. “Stand up,” he said, “I am only a man myself.”

While talking with him, Peter went inside and found a large gathering of people. He said to them: “You are well aware that it is against our law for a Jew to associate with or visit a Gentile. But God has shown me that I should not call anyone impure or unclean.

Stop and Consider: You are well aware that it is against our law for a Jew to associate with or visit with a Gentile. But God has shown me that I should not call anyone impure or unclean.

Questions Asked of Me: Has God opened your mind about some form of prejudice in your life? How has he led you to correct these tendencies? What might happen if you followed through on them?

I used to judge everyone; prejudice aside. I would judge based on handbags or shoes, to paychecks and addresses; no one was safe. I don’t know who I thought I was but Jesus was quick to show me who I wasn’t. I would talk about anyone to make myself look better or feel better about myself. He has humbled me in a way I didn’t think I deserved….in the beginning.

We kept a house for months longer than we should have. He kept showing us in different ways we couldn’t afford it and move on but for whatever reason, we kept shelling out money we didn’t have just to pay the bills, no frills to speak of. When push came to shove, we finally realized that it was more house than we could handle but was it too late? We began selling “stuff” and “toys” we didn’t need; a car that was merely a status symbol for me but sitting in a garage, undriven, Two motorcycles for Robbe; undriven…much and just lending itself to a lifestyle we could no longer afford. Just to name some biggies.

We downsized in the heart of winter to a house half the size; the judging and prejudice of others a thing of the past, but the reality of the humbling affect from Jesus ever present. I felt punished in the beginning but kept telling myself that is what He needed from us.

There was no question “What MIGHT have happened if I followed through on them?” I did follow through on these prejudices I had (all in the PJ era …. Pre-Jesus) but they happened.

I hurt feelings and what I thought would make me feel better about myself in being prejudiced towards people that made less money or wore different brands of shoes…. Actually didn’t. But instead of making that realization, I continued to hang out with those that acted like me, dressed like me, drank like me….and we all know how that turned out.

Just another set of scenarios that makes me wish I had found Jesus sooner. But even THOSE moments will be used for His glory one day. Not my finest moments for sure but if anyone can find a way to use them for something positive…. I am certain Jesus can.

If you knew that prejudice was one of the things blocking your free flow of communication with God and His Word, how much importance would you place on removing it?

I didn’t place any importance on it from the beginning…. I ran from it. I no longer was prejudice against others but I was soooo worried about being the one prejudiced against, I tended to shy away from situations where I felt that was an opportunity….even a bible study or two.

I was worried that walking into a bible study, these Christian women would be able to tell I wasn’t one of them. I was worried that it would be painfully obvious, even though I had a bible in hand, that I didn’t know many of the stories in them; stories that they so readily talked about and nodded to in agreement.

I place the utmost importance on removing prejudice now and even try to do what I can to make others feel at ease when I think they look like I did just two years ago. I know that I was afraid to read my bible and pray to Jesus, feeling less than those He directed me to. I know that even just the feeling or fear of being prejudiced against was enough for me to feel unworthy in seeking knowledge from His Word or communicating directly with Him.

Because I know how that feels; I would never want another to experience that.

Detour: From Beth in her extended reading today: “God had issued Saul an undeniable apostolic calling. He probably assumed his place was with the other apostles. But when he arrived in Jerusalem and tried to associate with them, “they were all afraid of him, since they did not believe he was a disciple” (Acts 9:26). As despicable as he had been, our hearts sting for him a little, don’t they? Perhaps each of us can relate to the unique stab of loneliness.””

I was lonely. In a room full of people that I thought I was “friends” with or thought I was better than…. I was lonely. I had alienated so many people by my prejudices and simply “pre-judging” that many times I had just myself to contend with. I didn’t fit in anywhere and unlike Paul; I didn’t have the backing of Jesus or Barnabus.

I joke all the time about using my powers for good and not evil now but this is just how I see it. I used to be the center of attention for one reason or another; life of the party, drinking the most, dressing the most outrageous, or just having fun and making others wish they were part of the party I was running.

Jesus let me know quickly that I can use that personality for His glory by doing the things He wants others to follow; going to church, being a part of fellowship with bible study or small groups, getting people excited about worship or women’s conference opportunities or just being the first one to be transparent and let others see…they are not alone.

THAT is the best part about being saved by Him…. I didn’t have to change who I was but I had to change the playground and those in it that were not following Him, and I had to change the things I was doing to excess that weren’t in His name. I still got to be the goofball that said and did what was on her heart…but He changed my heart. I still was the one that gets to have fun but it is always in a playground where He picks the playmates.

And you know what?  He has YET to say “I told you so.”

Praying God’s Word Today: Father, I take Your clear Word as a warning when You say, “If you really carry out the royal law prescribed in Scripture, “You shall love your neighbor as yourself; you are doing well. But if you show favoritism, you commit sin and are convicted by the law as transgressors. (James 2:8-9). I confess my sin of letting tastes and preferences legislate my behavior toward other people equally created in Your image. May I not just realize my fault; may I act on change in attitude.

Dear Jesus:

Thank you for showing me that I have no business being prejudiced of others. I am no better than any of those around me; either then, or now…having a relationship with You. I know what it is like to even feel as if I may be prejudiced against and I am grateful that You showed me quickly that I had nothing to worry about; almost as quickly as the way you humble me at a moment’s notice. There is no better time than time spent with You and I will continue to thank You for Your Word and the parables You share to make things so apparent to us. I am forever grateful for Your love for Paul when no others would trust Him….You did that for me. I am so blessed to have found those letters that Paul wrote throughout the New Testament and I know that You were the reason for me even stumbling across them.

Please help me to continue to not show prejudice to others; not only in my words and actions, but my thoughts. Please continue to show me that we are no better than those we see. Allow me to recognize prejudice in myself and in others and keep me from being too prideful to do anything about it.

Love,

Me

P.S. I know that I can be a handful at times. And I know that You probably get requests like mine every day. But, I want You to know that I DO appreciate all that you have done for me and continue to do for me every day. I am grateful that You do not turn Your back on me even when I get quiet in Your Word or devotion. The people that You have brought into my life this weekend are proof that You have no prejudice against me or my actions of this past month as I literally dragged my feet to Nineveh. Help me to have a heart more like Yours and those you put in my path.

Oh… and thanks for not saying “I told you so”. You were right again when You asked us to continue looking and getting out of our comfort zone of churches. Saving our seats in Row 5, right in the center, was just icing on the cake.

And you know how I love icing.

Day Twelve: The Encourager

Before You Begin:  Acts 9:26-31

Saul in Damascus and Jerusalem

When he came to Jerusalem, he tried to join the disciples, but they were all afraid of him, not believing that he really was a disciple. But Barnabus took him and brought him to the apostles. He told them how Saul on his journey had seen the Lord and that the Lord had spoken to him, and how in Damascus he had preached fearlessly in the name of Jesus. So Saul stayed with them and moved about freely in Jerusalem, speaking boldly in the name of the Lord. He talked and debated with Hellenistic Jews, but they tried to kill him. When the believers learned of this, they took him down to Caesarea and sent him off to Tarsus.

Then the church throughout Judea, Galilee and Samaria enjoyed a time of peace and was strengthened. Living in the fear of the Lord and encouraged by the Holy Spirit, it increased in numbers.

Stop and Consider: But Barnabus took him and brought him to the apostles. He told them how Saul on his journey had seen the Lord and that the Lord had spoken to him, and how in Damascus he had preached fearlessly in the name of Jesus.

Questions Asked of Me: Who are some of the people that have been particularly encouraging to you at times when you were down, lonely, or just plain out of sorts? How did their encouragement help you?

Without question it would be my mom, DeAnne, and Lynnette. These women have been there through it all. Okay; maybe DeAnne first, then getting the courage to let mom in on all that I was going through, and then Lynnette.

DeAnne was the probation officer early on that knew what I needed and the only thing to get me through it; in Jesus, but she couldn’t say a word until I was ready. Even when she wasn’t able to talk about Him, she was there encouraging me and showing me what was possible if I was open to change and humbling myself. I soon realized it was harder than I thought.

DeAnne actually encouraged me to reach out to my mother and begin communication with her again. I am certain now, looking back, that she knew of my mom’s relationship with Jesus and she could pick up where she was unable to, in directing me to the one person that I could put all of my trust and hopes in….Him. DeAnne and my mom actually began talking with each other this time last year too despite living 2500 miles apart.

My mom was the one who encouraged me…along with my dad, to seek Him. If I really wanted to change my life and truly get on the right path, I couldn’t do it alone. I told her I wasn’t on my own, I now had her and my dad to help me in making better decisions. I had my husband Robbe and I had better friends that wanted to see better things from me. She said it wasn’t enough. None of the things I mentioned would be enough…. without Him.

She was there for me in the hardest times I ever had to go through and even though she has never told me, I am sure that she had to stick up for me just like Barnabus had to stick up for Paul.

Then there is Lynnette. My Barnabus for sure; perhaps even in her own household, although she would never tell me. She was the most surprising of friendships found in my first bible study at my new church. Without question or hesitation she looked beyond my past and embraced me as a friend she knew that Jesus called me to be; even if I didn’t have a clue and her husband was probably a bit “iffy” about too.

She helped me to find inner strength I didn’t know I had. She encouraged me most last summer when she knew I would be speaking to people that most would shy away from. She knew I was going to be ministering to women that didn’t seek Jesus and probably even blamed Him for the situations they now found themselves in. I was scared and I was feeling less than worthy to do what I knew Jesus was calling me to do. Her response…. “You may be the only Jesus they see. You can do it….even if you don’t think you can.” Those words have stuck with me ever since in many different scenarios. When I don’t think I can make a difference in being a messenger for Him, she reminds me that I can because He tells me so.

How could you be an encouragement to some of the believers you know, those who are feeling weary or misunderstood?

I hope that I can do that by writing this blog. Even though sometimes, I wonder if anyone reads it. I want to be a Cheerleader for Jesus by writing for Him, sewing for Him, speaking for Him, and learning and sharing for Him. I want to tell those that are feeling weary and misunderstood that I’ve been there. He found me at my worst and turned my life around. Even when He asked more of me than I thought I could muster; I was obedient and followed Him, hoping to figure it out sooner rather than later. It is not only possible with Jesus but guaranteed. Being transparent for His glory was not something I thought I could do and when it was put in front of me…. I did it; surprising us both.

I don’t want others to feel they can’t write or speak in front of hundreds so giving Him the trust and glory is not for them. I want them to be encouraged that because He gives me strength and courage, through my bad days and good….they too, can benefit from what Jesus does in, through, and for me.

Detour: We visited a new church today. We are happy with the church that my husband has been attending for the last six months and I have been to twice in two weeks but there was something missing; the “getting connected” opportunities. The church we attended today just happens to be down the road and has small groups as well as a variety of bible studies to choose from. I was happy to learn that one of the studies is one I missed at my church last summer when I was in California; so I signed up for that straight away.

I definitely could have used some encouragement on the way home today as we now have a clear dilemma. Where are Lynnette, DeAnne, and mommy now?

We walked into the church this morning and were welcomed by Women’s Ministries and then Small Groups. We were immediately introduced around to pastors, ushers, and bible study leaders. They were so darn friendly. The service was smaller than we are used to but the message was right where we were at. We even got to sit in our same row back from the stage, right in the center, as if Jesus saved us a seat.

Of course He did.

The pastor spoke of the Young Rich Ruler found in the parable in Mark 10. I didn’t relate to this parable; not having the treasures to be pulled from but I did relate to him especially when He asked Jesus “Good Teacher, what must I do to inherit eternal life?” I know that I can’t be good enough or do enough to get into Heaven on my own merit BUT the relative part to me in this statement was asking a question, merely to get the answer and go about my day….just doing whatever I was asked to do.

I did exactly that after church today when I called my daddy. I was looking for advice on which church to attend. I wanted him to give me the answer and encourage me in the decision being made for me. Instead…. We talked about it a bit and then he said it was a decision my husband and I would have to talk about and get on our knees and pray about it.

I found myself, just like the Young Rich Ruler, not liking what was told to me but wanting my “quick fix;” someone who would just tell me what I had to do and move on. I am certain that no matter where Jesus tells us is “our” church, us attending the service today and me calling daddy, were not unintentional.

Encourage

1.    To inspire with courage, spirit, or confidence

2.    To stimulate by assistance, approval, etc.

3.    To promote, advance, or foster.

I hope to inspire with courage and confidence but know that I need to be filled by Jesus more than just one day a week in order to do that; for others, and for myself.

I want to stimulate by offering assistance and approval to those that Jesus puts in front of me. How many will I truly get to reach at the larger church when there are no opportunities to interact with others in the congregation?

I need to promote and advance others to a better, stronger relationship with Jesus. Will those opportunities be available to me in a church I love on Sundays but have no interaction with anyone during the week?

Talk about the ultimate encourager….. I think Jesus may have helped me answer my own question in just putting “fingers to keyboard”. Even though a smaller church is not my comfort level….is this about me? NO. This is about Him working in me, through me, and around me. It is NOT about me. Despite our comfort level in a larger church setting and sitting with 3,000 of our closest friends during a service, He knows I need the interaction with others on a more personal level. Just as He knows I need the intimacy of our devotion time together via this blog, our coffee and study time, and prayer.

Praying God’s Word Today: God of endurance and encouragement, I thank You for granting us agreement with other believers so that we may glorify You, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, with a unified mind and voice (Rom. 15:5-6). With this in mind, open my eyes to new opportunities to encourage others daily, while it is still called today, so that none of us will be hardened by sin’s deception. For we have truly become companions of Christ if we hold firmly until the end the reality that we had at the start (Heb. 3:13-14). Make me an encourager!

            Romans 15:5-6

May the God who gives endurance and encouragement give you the same attitude of mind toward each other that Christ Jesus had, so that with one mind and one voice you may glorify the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ.

            Hebrews 3:13-14

But encourage one another daily, as long as it is called “Today,” so that none of you may be hardened by sin’s deceitfulness. We have come to share in Christ, if indeed we hold our original conviction firmly to the very end.

Dear Jesus:

Thank you so much for those encouragers that you have brought, and continue to bring, into my life. Please open my eyes more to the opportunities put before me to encourage others. Confirm with me this week that a change of church to better serve you is what you are asking of me. Show me that the decision to change to a smaller church with better connections is what you want from me; letting me know that you want me to step further out of my comfort zone of the “mega church” into a more intimate, healthy church that lives for You and has already begun to encourage and welcome us to their family. Thank you for my daddy that doesn’t just give me the answers but directs me to You to help me figure out what You think is best for me. I appreciate the encouragers in my life in all capacities and promise to continue to encourage others, especially those that feel weary and misunderstood; only You know just how weary and misunderstood I felt when You found me.

Love,

Me