God is my Justice

Passage: Psalm 91

Key Verse:

“A thousand may fall at your side, ten thousand at your right hand, but it will not come near you. You will only observe with your eyes and see the punishment of the wicked.” Vs. 7, 8  (NLT)

The telephone rang and the familiar voice bid me good morning from across the world. My brother called me early that day, which was quite unusual. At first I thought something bad had happened with a family member, but he quickly dismissed any tragedy. He proceeded to tell me that someone I knew had been arrested for breaking the law. I felt the blood in my veins turn cold. That same person had tried to harm me and my business just one year before. At the time, I wanted to fight and take justice into my own hands, but the Lord clearly told me to forgive and deliver them to Him. And so I did. One year - that is all that it took for God’s justice to be done. The Mighty Judge of the universe honored His Word in my life once again. As verse 8 of Psalm 91 promises, I “only observed with my eyes and (indeed saw) the punishment of the wicked.” All I had to do was stand and wait...nothing else. If there ever was a “Wow” moment in my walk with Christ, that was certainly one.

I believe that we will not always be able to acknowledge, on this side of eternity, the many times God has protected, vindicated us and honored our obedience. I wonder how many times His angels stood between my car and the one in front of me. I wonder how many times He has protected me from getting hurt by delaying my leaving the house another minute or two. I wonder how many times He has charged His angels into mighty spiritual battles against people and demons that tried to harm me. I believe that if we were to receive revelation of these many instances when God has been our Protector, Deliverer and defender, we would fall flat on our face before Him and never fret again. He promises to take care of us and so he does. Every time.

The Battle Belongs to the Lord

“No human wisdom or understanding or plan can stand against the Lord. The horse is prepared for the day of battle, but the victory belongs to the Lord.” Psalm 21:30-31 (NLT)

I don’t know about you, but when I am hurt, or someone hurts a loved one, this sanguine girl feels a lot like Peter in Gethsemane. Oh, I certainly can see how I’d be tempted to pick up the sword and slash the ear of the soldier who stepped forward to take my Savior captive. How dare him! 

Just like Peter, whenever we or someone we love is wronged, our response is invariably the same. Even if we don’t ever say it out loud, we desire that the person receives justice. Our society loudly preaches this concept – “if you punch me, be prepared to be punched back.” But as you read the New Testament, Jesus taught us that instead of seeking revenge, we are to pray for those who persecute us:

“You have heard that it was said, ‘you shall love your neighbors and hate your enemy.’ But I say to you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you (…)” Matthew 5:43-44 (NASB)

In the Old Testament, instead of taking justice into their own hands, men of God would deliver their enemies into His hand. A good example is David as he was unjustly persecuted by Saul and his kinsman. He cries out to God on Psalm 7:

“Arise, O Lord, in anger! Stand up against the fury of my enemies! Wake up, my God, and bring justice!” Vs. 6 (NLT)

David knew of his innocence. He knew his heart was clean before God and that he was being unjustly persecuted. Moreover, because he was blameless before God, he boldly asked Him to favor him with His protection and deliverance:

“The Lord judges the nations. Declare me righteous, O Lord, for I am innocent, O Most High!” Psalm 7:8 (NLT)

God is the Patron of the Innocent.

David had no high court to plea his innocence to. The king was his enemy! The very one who should have righted him was seeking to destroy him. But David had the court of Heaven to go to and a mighty and righteous Judge, who would certainly bring forth His justice in David’s life. David knew that, and as desolate and helpless and I am sure he felt while hiding in caverns and running for his life, he chose to cry out to God instead of seeking vengeance. He prepared his horse for the battle by living a life that pleased God, obeying His commandments and putting Him first. While he was still just a young lad, he witnessed what God did with a tiny stone strategically placed on the giant’s forehead. He also knew it was God Himself who had appointed him as king over Israel and therefore no one could overtake him unless He allowed.

What about you? Has someone wronged you? Have you seen the wicked prosper while you’ve been hurting deeply? Or do you see ungodly people around you seemingly living much better lives than you do, prospering financially, physically or emotionally? Does the justice due you seem to be unnoticed by Almighty God? You’re not alone. Jeremiah, a prophet who knew the just God of Israel questioned the same thing as he was persecuted:

“Lord, you always give me justice when I bring a case before you. So let me bring you this complaint:

Why are the wicked so prosperous? Why are evil people so happy? You have planted them, and they have taken root and prospered. Your name is on their lips, but you are far from their hearts. But as for me, Lord, you know my heart. You see me and test my thoughts. Drag these people away like sheep to be butchered!    Set them aside to be slaughtered!” Jeremiah 12: 1-3 (NLT)

Another Opportunity to Grow your Faith

Do you believe that God will defend you? Through persecution, He may be giving you an opportunity once again to stand up on His Word and prove His faithfulness. We should see our trials as awesome landmarks of spiritual growth, and persecution should be no different. Instead of seeking to do justice with your own hands, set your eyes upon His promises and let Him take care of your enemies. Instead of fighting your battles, pray that God will work on your heart that you may get to the place where you honestly pray for those who harm you. I can personally testify to this: God’s justice may take much longer than what I would like, but it is always accomplished.

No human strength, understanding or plan can stand against the Lord, my friend! Better yet, not even plans that come from the depth of hell itself can destroy God’s children! I love it how “The Message” translation so vividly portraits how God protects His redeemed:

“So, what do you think? With God on our side like this, how can we lose? If God didn't hesitate to put everything on the line for us, embracing our condition and exposing himself to the worst by sending his own Son, is there anything else he wouldn't gladly and freely do for us? And who would dare tangle with God by messing with one of God's chosen? Who would dare even to point a finger? The One who died for us—who was raised to life for us!—is in the presence of God at this very moment sticking up for us. Do you think anyone is going to be able to drive a wedge between us and Christ's love for us? There is no way! Not trouble, not hard times, not hatred, not hunger, not homelessness, not bullying threats, not backstabbing, not even the worst sins listed in Scripture.(…) I'm absolutely convinced that nothing—nothing living or dead, angelic or demonic, today or tomorrow, high or low, thinkable or unthinkable—absolutely nothing can get between us and God's love because of the way that Jesus our Master has embraced us. ” Romans 8:31-39 (The Message – emphasis added)

What a promise!!

In the Shelter of the Almighty

“Whoever dwells in the shelter of the Most High will rest in the shadow of the Almighty.” Psalm 91:1 (NIV)

 It is very relevant that David starts this psalm with the condition under which God’s people can claim to receive His protection, deliverance, justice and favor. This divine privilege is only awarded to those who dwell in His shelter and rest under His shadow. Notice that the verb is “to dwell.” That does not mean Sunday visitations or the quest of the desperate, who hurry to God only when trouble strikes. Truth being told, the longer one dwells in God’s presence, the more he or she understands how little that has to do with religion.

Those who dwell in the Shelter of the Almighty deliberately reach out to God, seeking to know Him in an intimate way. It has to do with submitting ourselves to Him as living sacrifices and seeking to honor Him in all we do; not because we have to, but because we love Him.  It has little to do with how many ministries we are involved with, how much we give to the church or how often we are there. It has to do with how many times we open our Bibles, eager to know our Maker intimately. It has to do with how much we negate our desires and dreams to obey God and pursue that which He has called us to do. It has to do with trusting Him, even when we are wronged, humiliated or despised, because we truly understand that those who seek to harm God’s children become, ultimately, enemies of their Father.

You may have been hurt in the deepest way imaginable. Your heart may be crushed and you may feel like no one can understand or help. Remember this – David cried out to a God of justice because He dwelt in His presence. The battle is only yours if you are not near God. If you are living a life that seeks to please Him and honor Him; if you are living in His shelter; the God, the Mighty Judge of the universe sees your affliction. He sees your heart and what you are going through. He will deliver you and I guarantee you, my friend, you WILL see His justice come forth. You don’t have to fight. Just rest under His shadow and watch Him act on your behalf.

Eventually, I assure you that you will join David in his song of victory, when God delivered him from Saul and his other enemies:

“The Lord lives! Praise my defender! Proclaim the greatness of the strong God who saves me! He gives me victory over my enemies; he subdues the nations under me and saves me from my foes.” 2 Sam 22:47-49 (NLT)

Heavenly Father, thank You for Your Word that stands forever. Thank you for Your promises, which never fail. Thank you that You promise to deliver me from those who try to harm me and that I don’t ever have to fight my battles, because You are my Defender and Shield.  I pray for my enemies, Lord, that they may see the harm that they’ve done, repent and turn to You. Remind me, Lord, to keep my  heart  pure before You and to delight myself in knowing You more intimately each day and loving You with all that I do. Remind me that this is my only part in the battle: to dwell in Your presence and keep a heart that is pure before You. I praise You for what I know You will do in my life. In Jesus’ Mighty Name I pray, Amen.

Thank You for Manna!

Passage:

Numbers11:1-10

Key Verses:

“Then the foreign rabble who were traveling with the Israelites began to crave the good things of Egypt. And the people of Israel also began to complain. ‘Oh, for some meat!’ they exclaimed. ‘We remember the fish we used to eat for free in Egypt. And we had all the cucumbers, melons, leeks, onions, and garlic we wanted. But now our appetites are gone. All we ever see is this manna!’ ” (v. 4-6 – NLT)

“Mommy, I don’t want to thank God for this right now. I am too upset.”

I had just got off the phone with our pediatrician and  my suspicions were confirmed. Our oldest daughter is also allergic to gluten. The diagnostic sounded like music to my ears. I know that sounds crazy, but bear with me.

To most people I know, the doctor might as well have told them that they had six months to live. Having been on a gluten-free diet for almost 3 years now, the most common comment I hear from friends and family is “I would diiiiieeee if I had to give up pizza and bread.”

If you have never heard of this most annoying protein called gluten, it happens to reside inside some of the best foods ever made: cakes, brownies, pizza, pasta, bread, several dressings and sauces. Living without gluten is no cupcake (no pun intended.) 

About 2 months ago, my daughter started having daily abdominal pain. She started waking up in the middle of the night because her belly hurt so badly. I tried everything that I knew to make her feel better, and we even put her on a gluten-free diet for a week to see if things would get better, without much success. I have to confess that in the beginning I was hoping that it was not the gluten causing all the pain. I knew first hand that the changes in diet that totally changed my life as an adult would absolutely be a nightmare for a 9 year old. But as the weeks went by and the pain seemed to get worse, I started praying that gluten was the culprit. As much as I do not consider myself a worrier, I started wondering…. What if something was terribly wrong with my baby? I did not share my fears with anyone but the Lord. I cried out to God when she would come to our bedroom in pain: “Lord, have mercy!”. So by the time that the diagnostics came back and I found out that indeed her problems would be solved with a permanent change in diet, I was ready to shout “Halleluiah!!!” As I hung up the phone and told her of the results, my cake-brownie-pizza-bread-loving daughter started crying. She was not too happy when I told her what was in my heart: “We need to thank God, honey. Thank God that this is all that you have.”

Later that night as we prayed together, she looked at me and said: “Mommy, I’m so sorry I said I did not want to thank God. I do now.” And in a whisper filled with conviction, she told her Maker: “Lord, thank you that we found out what is wrong with me. And thank you that it’s nothing too serious.” She then looked at me and joyfully declared: “Mommy, this is sooo cool! We’ll be gluten-free buddies!”

I smiled, proudly. That’s my girl!

A Chapter of Complaints

The eleventh chapter in the book of Numbers should be titled “the chapter of complaints.” In this particular passage, the people of Israel started to complain to Moses about the type of food that God had provided for them. Manna! Nothing but Manna!, they cried. Later on Moses himself lifted up his voice in complaint to God “Why are you treating me, your servant, so harshly? Have mercy on me! What did I do to deserve the burden of all these people?” (v. 11 – NLT)

The whining goes on and on. It is indeed not a pretty picture, mainly because unfortunately, most of us can relate to it at some point in our history. The people of Israel were basing their heart’s attitude on skewed views which neglected God’s goodness and past performance. As we look closely into this passage, we can learn important lessons from Israel’s ingratitude towards God.

Lesson # 1 – Be careful who you hang out with

Notice on verse 4 that the people who started the complaints were part of the “foreign rabble” that was traveling with the Israelites. These people were not God’s people. They hitch-hiked along with God’s people, so to speak, as He freed them from Egyptian bondage. These people were along for the ride towards the land of promise, but they were not willing to go through the state of probation necessary to get there. They were like sick sheep that infected the flock. Just like medieval plagues, which started in the outskirts of the cities where filthiness and poverty reigned, and quickly took over the palaces, killing the mighty and wealthy, these people walked along God’s people but not with God’s people, and therefore their lust quickly spread and infected Israel’s attitude. As they moaned and complained about what they did not have, their faithless viewpoint clouded God’s children’s eyes. And so, suddenly, Egypt turned into paradise.

Unfortunately, this type of “infection” is not uncommon amongst God’s people today. There are many Christians that are being infected by the ungodly.  I know I am perceived as a radical by some, but I cannot help but believe as I read the Bible that the only way to be light in the world is if you keep your light shining brightly. We must be in the world, but we don’t have to act worldly. If we behave as the world does, doing what they do, using the same language, watching what they watch, laughing at what they laugh, our light cannot help but be dimmed. And that is a true danger – that we may be infected by the world rather than affect our world for Christ.

“You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden. Nor does anyone light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on the lamp stand, and it gives light to all who are in the house. Let your light shine before men in such a way that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father who is in heaven.” Matthew 5:14-16 (NLT)

Lesson # 2 – Leave the past where it belongs.

“We remember the fish which we used to eat free in Egypt, the cucumbers and the melons and the leeks and the onions and the garlic, but now our appetite is gone. There is nothing at all to look at except this manna.” (v.5 – NLT)

One of the things that called my attention as I studied the background in this passage is the place where they were located. If the people were camped in Horeb, they would have had some provision within their reach, such as herbs and vegetables. But in the wilderness of Paran, where they were located, they had no resources to draw from. Their daily complaint should have quickly turned into worship and thanksgiving because of how obvious it was that the manna sent from Heaven was nothing short of another miracle from Almighty God. Instead, with their eyes blinded by lust, they started longing for the place God had delivered them from.  They magnified the plenty of food in Egypt, as if God had made a horrendous mistake delivering them from slavery. While they were in Egypt, they complained about the burdens they were submitted to day and night, and here they are in this passage, talking about Egypt as if they had lived there as royalty. They talked as if the plenty of food they ate while under Pharaoh’s watch was theirs for free, evidently forgetting that they paid for it with their own freedom.  They remembered cucumbers, melons, leeks, onions and garlic as if they were precious, dainty foods, all along forgetting the slave masters’ whip, the death and sorrow that surrounded their lives. How foolish!

Cucumbers, Melons, Leeks, Onions and Garlic? Really???

“Manna was a seed-like substance with a shiny appearance like resin. The people went around collecting it and ground it between stones or pounded it fine in a mortar. Then they boiled it in a pot and shaped it into cakes. It tasted like a delicacy cooked in olive oil.” Numbers 11:7 (The Message – emphasis added).

If we are not careful, we may fall into the same mistake as the Jews did time and again. As we wander in our own wilderness at times, waiting for God’s promises to be fulfilled in our lives, we may fall into Satan’s trap of so focusing on our past that we totally miss God’s miracles of provision and deliverance in the present. On verse 6, the Jews were complaining about the Manna that they so admired when they first saw it. It was good food, Heaven food. The food was free and enough was provided for what each family needed each day. Moreover, the manna came from the bounty of God. It was new every morning, just like God’s mercies to us are (Lam 3:23). And yet, they started despising God’s provision.

Be careful to leave your past where it belongs. If you don’t, you will magnify things that looked good, but at the end, cost you your freedom, your peace and your joy. Worse yet, you may miss the miracles of provision that God is sending your way now. Provision for your body needs and for your soul longings as you walk closely to Him in the desert.

Lesson # 3 – Don’t Pout. Instead, lift up your eyes and see God.

When I read the accounts of the children of God in the wilderness, I cannot help at times but to visualize a group of spoiled five-year olds pouting all at the same time. They cried when they did not have what they wanted, and then they cried again when they got what they wanted. They shouted at poor Moses (v.1), complained, murmured, rebelled and disobeyed. They really remind me of some kids I see around the malls, whose parents evidently don’t believe in Proverbs 13:24. Poor Moses. No wonder he wanted to resign from being their leader!

As you read the account of the Jews in the wilderness, you don’t see them looking for God. You hardly see them praying unless they are in so much trouble that they have no option but to repent in order to receive God’s favor once again. They sinned and they pouted. That’s what they did. Instead of looking for God in their circumstances and looking back in their past to remember the numerous times that God showed up in miraculous ways, they would focus on their lustful desires and apparent unmet needs. God faithfully provided forgiveness, deliverance, food, protection and shelter. And instead of being thankful for what they had, they would lust after what they did not have. Oh, what a sad place to be! The Psalmist remembers the account and relates that God was “furious” with their attitude:

“When the Lord heard them, he was furious. The fire of his wrath burned against Jacob.Yes, his anger rose against Israel, for they did not believe God or trust him to care for them.” Psalm 108:21-22 (NLT)

All the Jews wanted was meat. There is no sin in that. Or is there?

Remember this: even things that are perfectly lawful can become evil to us if they are not God’s plan and when we so eagerly desire them, that we allow our lust to take over our trust and faith in God.

True thanksgiving can only take root in the heart of those who trust God, even if His modus operandi does not make sense to us. I don’t understand everything that God does and why sometimes it takes Him so long to do something. We cannot comprehend His mind. “For just as the heavens are higher than the earth, so my ways are higher than your ways and my thoughts higher than your thoughts.” Isaiah 55:9 (NLT). But this one thing I know: the longer I walk with my Jesus, the more I learn to trust Him. The longer I stay in His presence, the more He shows me His mercy in big and small ways. Small and huge mercies fill my plate. They may not always taste like the dainty foods that I used to eat when I was a slave in Egypt. But they are food from Heaven; food that not even the angels will ever taste, for they are reserved only for God’s redeemed. They may not be exactly what I want, but they are what I need.

I don’t know about you, but I have a huge list to bring before the Lord this Thanksgiving. And my list this year will not only include the blessings I have, those that are so obvious to be thankful for: family, friends, jobs. I am grateful for things that don’t taste that great, but which are drawing me closer to Him. I challenge you to jot down the not-so-great things in your Thanksgiving list this year. They may just be your manna - food from Heaven. Food that will change you from within. I believe that can be a huge thing to be thankful for.

Happy Thanksgiving, Y’all!

He's Been There

Passage: Hebrews 4:14-16

Key Verse:

“This High Priest of ours understands our weaknesses, for he faced all of the same testings we do, yet he did not sin.” (v. 15 - NLT)

My head was stuck to the pillow that morning. Any hope for energy had vanished with the dawn of a new day. The sanguine in me wanted to jump out of bed and start the day as usual – study my Bible, prepare the kids for school, get ready, run out of the house to face Atlanta traffic. But my body answered quickly: “No, ma’am. Not today. We’re not getting up.” (Sigh.) As I lay in bed, half conscious, I started muttering a prayer: “Jesus… I need you to be the wind beneath my wings.” In the quietness of the moment, when a prayer is said and an answer is anticipated, I heard His tender voice whisper to my soul: “I’ve been there.” It seemed like a strange answer to me. I was hoping to hear something more like: “get up, take thy bed and walk!” But His answer was clear: “I’ve been there.” Suddenly images from Jesus’ life on earth came to my mind – moments depicted in epic movies such as the Passion of the Christ and Jesus: the painful, unforgettable images of my Savior, as He suffered on his flesh more than any man or woman ever has or ever will.

I did make it out of bed that day… eventually.

As I opened my Bible the next day to continue my study on Hebrews, the Lord’s answer from the day before still resounded on my mind. As I read the end of Chapter 4, God’s answer to me started to make sense with Paul’s comments to His countrymen regarding the nature of our High Priest.

 The book of Hebrews was written for the first century messianic Jews. These men and women perfectly understood the establishment of priesthood. They knew that the High Priests of the Old Testament had to be men appointed by God and consecrated for Him. After Christ’s death and resurrection, there are no mentions to the title “High Priest” in the New Testament in reference to ministers within the church. This title became Christ’s alone. His atoning sacrifice on Calvary ended once and for all the Jewish priesthood, demonstrating that priests or animal sacrifices are no longer required.

Jesus – our Sympathetic High Priest

“Surely He has borne our griefs (sicknesses, weaknesses, and distresses) and carried our sorrows and pains [of punishment], yet we [ignorantly] considered Him stricken, smitten, and afflicted by God [as if with leprosy].

But He was wounded for our transgressions, He was bruised for our guilt and iniquities; the chastisement [needful to obtain] peace and well-being for us was upon Him, and with the stripes [that wounded] Him we are healed and made whole.” Isaiah 53:4-6 (Amplified)

The power of sympathy of our Great High Priest is not referred to as something that would distinguish Him from other high priests, but rather to express the resemblance and understanding that our Savior has regarding the feelings and struggles we all face. “For He understands our weaknesses, for He faced all the same testings we do” (v.15)  The greek word “astheneia” (transliteration) translated as “weaknesses” or “infirmities” in most texts, refers to both bodily infirmities, such as disease and also the general weaknesses of human nature. Jesus has suffered all our infirmities, both physically and emotionally. If it were not so, our King would not have been the perfect mediator between us and Holy God, for He would not be able to sympathize with our shortcomings and hurts. You see, our Savior’s unparalleled greatness as God, the Son, does not by any means make Him incapable of sympathy. Although He is indeed the Son of God, He has a human soul – a soul actually, intensely human – which went through a complete array of trials and tribulations and reached Its glory through suffering. Although He was without sin (v.15), He lived a life of constant temptation and sorrow because of the sin that assails mankind. Therefore we understand the meaning of the prophetic voice of Isaiah as He foretold of our Great High Priest that He would “bear our griefs” – of sickness, disloyalty, irritations, loneliness and death. He knows, in His flesh, the precise force of every evil that ever tried and tempted mankind.

All Things Considered

“For since He Himself was tempted in that which He has suffered, He is able to come to the aid of those who are tempted.” (Hebrews 2:18 – NASB)

So, you are facing a trial. A very difficult one.

Sickness…

Stress…

Financial need…

Loneliness…

Overwhelming temptation…

Betrayal…

Death…

“Come to Me, all who are weary and heavy-laden, and I will give you rest.” Matthew 11:28 (NASB)

Go to your High Priest. He’s been there! No matter where you look and what you are facing, there’s not a facet of our humanity that Jesus did not experience. Except sin. He has gone through everything you and I experience and conquered every single temptation and overcame every single pain. Therefore you and I can boldly come and ask the Father, in the Son’s Name and have the perfect confidence that He hears AND understands.

Bold Before the Throne

“So let us come boldly to the throne of our gracious God. There we will receive his mercy, and we will find grace to help us when we need it most.” Heb 4:16 (NLT)

The Gospels show us the reality of the many trials that Jesus has gone through in His life on earth; from the temptation by Satan in the Wilderness and reaching its climax in Gethsemane. And yet, “He was without sin” (4:15.) He stood firm, at great cost, during the hardest moments of His life as God, the Son, and today He stands with us during our hardest trials. This should make us shout for joy! In Hebrews 4:16, the author calls us to “hold firmly to the faith that we profess” and then calls us to “be bold” as we come before the Throne of Grace. We are to be bold as we pray for our needs and the needs of others: “Let us hold fast the confession of our hope without wavering, for He who promised is faithful.” Hebrews 10:23. This boldness is to be reflected in our prayer life and in our testimony to others. We have access to the Holy of Holies through the blood of Christ that redeemed us.

We too often criticize other religions for their legalism concerning their prayer rituals. And yet, many times these devotees are much more faithful than we are to come before their gods and plea for their needs. That is a shame! Sometimes our reluctance in praying for our needs and others’ may suggest a lack of gratitude for the amazing access we have into God’s presence. Jesus is always there, eager to be summoned by His children. Let us come into His presence more often! Let us bow before Him with expectant hearts, knowing that He who promised is (indeed) faithful!! Let us talk to our High Priest, who loves us so much and so desired to make a way for us into God’s presence that He laid down His life for you and me.

What a Joy to know that we have a friend before the Throne of Grace, and that He is the Almighty’s Son! As often as we look up to His loving face, we can boldly enter His courts and ask for anything In Jesus’ Name, whether it is forgiveness for the past or helping grace for the future. Not only do we have ample access to the Throne of Grace, but we also have freedom of speech with Him who sits thereon. We can draw near with confidence!

Overwhelming Love

“And I am convinced that nothing can ever separate us from God’s love. Neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither our fears for today nor our worries about tomorrow—not even the powers of hell can separate us from God’s love.” Romans 8:38 (NLT)

It grieves my soul when I hear someone say that they don’t feel “loved” by God. I think of Jesus as He went through all the trials and temptations during His life on earth. He did so, all the while possessing the power to stop anything at any time and yet, choosing to suffer to set me free. Moreover, choosing to die to give me ample access to the God of the Universe.

When I think about my trials, I think of our Savior at the cross, blood running down His precious face, as the crowd that He was willingly dying for shouted “crucify Him!”  I’m reminded that my sin shouted “crucify Him” at the foot of the cross. I remember that He chose to die to become the One who would fill the gap between me and a perfect, Holy God. Why? For love. Overwhelming, amazing love.

When I think of my trials in light of eternity, of my wants in light of the surpassing riches of knowing my Savior, they pale in contrast. When I think that my Jesus is seated on the High Heavens, at God’s right hand and interceding for me, I am filled with the assurance that every trial I go through must be allowed by a loving God who is molding me, making me more like His Son. And in the process of doing so, He gives me glimpses of His amazing grace, eternal and unfailing love, and yes, He even sends me that wind to lift my wings up when I am too weak to fly. I pray that I learn more each day, to obediently and expectantly stretch my wings out by faith, knowing that He is getting ready to make me soar. For I know that I know, that “He who began a good work in me will perfect it until the day of Christ Jesus.” Philippians 1:6.

Dear Father, I thank You with all my heart and soul that You have sent us Your only Son to provide a way to Your presence.

 I worship You and thank You, my Jesus, for living on this earth and suffering all the pains and sorrows that we suffer, so you could nail all our hurt and sins to the cross. I know that the Father hears my prayers because of Your sacrifice and love. I know, that all things will work together for my good, and I know that this is only possible because of You. I love you, Jesus, My Great High Priest. In Your Name I pray, Amen.

Guilty Before The Trial Starts

Passage: Proverbs 18:1-17

Key Verse: 

“The first to plead his case seems right, until another comes and examines him.” (Vs.17)

Just one week ago newspapers worldwide featured the story of Troy Davis, a man who was in the death row and seeking to delay his execution for the second time. After spending 22 years in jail and unable to prove his innocence, he was executed for the 1989 murder of a Georgia police officer. Davis died swearing he was innocent and initiated a debate across the borders which included several dignitaries who believed his innocence. The controversy surrounding his case was not a matter of pro- or anti- death penalty, but rather whether the justice system sentenced the wrong man to death. Although I frankly have not followed the case close enough to form an opinion one way or the other, this story reminded me of the importance of unbiased judgment to obtain a fair verdict. 

Proverbs 18 is filled with words of wisdom regarding the disgrace and grief that a hasty judgment can bring to one’s life. This somber proverb of Solomon, the wisest man who ever lived, is a reminder on how slow we should be to talk and how careful we should be to listen before we ever repeat anything we hear.

The Bible is clear in regards to the danger of forming an opinion when you hear only one side of the story: “The first to plead his case seems right, until another comes and examines him.” (Vs.17 - NASB). In other words – there are always two sides to the same story.  I was only twelve years old when I learned the pain of being unfairly judged.

My friends and I were sitting during recess and some of the girls started speculating about the private lives of the nuns who ran and lived in the school I attended. I don’t remember much of what was being discussed, but I do remember a very serious accusation that one of the girls made in regards to the relationship between two of the nuns in the school. I remember being shocked at the accusation. I did not say a thing. So, you can imagine my dismay when I was called into the Principal’s office, accused to have initiated the terrible gossip that the girl sitting across from me started. Someone had blown the whistle about our little recess talk and she quickly blamed me for something I never said. Let me put it this way: I don’t remember much about middle school, but I will never forget that situation. 

“Equal Justice Under the Law”

The symbol for the judiciary in the western world is “Lady Justice.” Blind Justice is the theory that law should be viewed objectively with the determination of innocence or guilt made without bias or prejudice and it is the idea behind the United States Supreme Court motto “Equal Justice Under Law.”

During a court hearing, the attorney who pleads his case first before the judge and the jury seems for a moment to have justice on his side. However, it is not until the second attorney takes the stand, sifts and scrutinizes the statements that were already given, argues them to be wrong or weakens the evidences that seemed to support the first attorney’s case, it’s not until then, that the judge and the jury has fair and balanced material to reach a verdict.

Judgment of anyone’s actions without the presence of evidence is a dangerous thing. Many people suffer terrible consequences every day for being judged incorrectly. As children of God, we must realize the danger of spreading gossip and judging people without hearing both sides of a story. What may seem to be a truthful story to you may be totally different from the facts. These are some of the reasons we must hear the entire story before issuing our opinion:

1)      We cannot expect absolute accuracy when someone states his own case!

“Every man’s way is right in his own eyes, But the LORD weighs the hearts.” Proverbs 21:2

Just because someone tells you something it does not mean that it is the absolute truth. Sometimes people will intentionally misrepresent their case; however sometimes it is not intentional. We are always biased when we represent ourselves, therefore no wise man or woman should expect his neighbor to state their case without adding, omitting or enhancing parts of the story to his/her own benefit. Hence the importance of being discerning and careful as you hear one side of a story.

2)      Some are better attorneys than others!

My dad is an attorney and I have always loved to watch the deliberations in courts of justice. Some of my favorite movies were based on novels written by a retired criminal attorney, Mr. John Grisham. I have always been fascinated to watch attorneys plead their case before the jury and their eloquence (or lack of) during deliberations.

The same set of skills may make or break a person’s defense when accused. Some people can make a very lame cause sound like a good one; but some on the other hand, cannot give to a good cause the justice that it is due. Unfortunately, more often than not, truth yields to eloquence.

3)      Always hear the other side.

“Look beneath the surface so you can judge correctly.”  John 7:24 (NLT)

If we are to be just and fair, we must seek to hear both sides of the story. More importantly, we must never repeat a story until we hear both sides. If we do, we may commit the injustice of giving a person credibility to which he is not morally entitled to and at the same time accuse an innocent person without hearing all the facts.

Slow to Speak

“But everyone must be quick to hear, slow to speak and slow to anger” James 1:19 (NASB)

I often cringe at some stories I hear repeated. I do even more so when it comes from people within the church. Not long ago I lost sleep over something that I heard about someone I know.  I could not believe how carelessly the words were spoken as a very serious accusation that could cost someone great loss. That stirred up in my heart the desire to write about the dangers of repeating accusations.  I believe we must search our hearts and ask ourselves what our real motives are when we repeat a story that we heard. Why do we do it? Does it profit the person we are talking to or talking about? Or are we repeating just to have something to say? Have we verified the facts? Or could it be that within our hearts we have feelings such as pride and envy that are only satisfied when we slander someone. If our facts are verified and our purpose is to warn someone of a danger they may face, we absolutely must do so, however we must know for a fact that what we are saying is the truth. In the first chapter of James, the apostle cautions God’s people that we must be quick to hear, but slow to speak. I hear many things but don’t need to repeat them. I may go to my husband or a trusted friend for advice, but I will not spread a rumor that could irreparably cost someone his or her reputation.

“Those who plant injustice will harvest disaster, and their reign of terror will come to an end.” Proverbs 22:8 (NLT)

May we be careful with our words! May we remember that we are all WIP (works in progress,) imperfect children of the Almighty and none of us is above the other: “As it is written, there is none righteous, no, not one.” Romans 3:10 (NASB.) We must offer people around us the mercy and grace that we have been given at the foot of the cross, where we all meet under the same condition. May we offer people around us the respect to hear their side of the story, lest we hurt innocent people and harvest disaster (Proverbs 22:8.)

Things that God Hates

Finally, this book full of wisdom from God is one of the places in the Bible where you can find a list of things that God HATES. These verses are known to most believers, but really! They should be engraved in our minds so we don’t live lives that look good on the outside, but are despised by our Maker:

“There are six things which the LORD hates, Yes, seven which are an abomination to Him: Haughty eyes, a lying tongue, And hands that shed innocent blood, A heart that devises wicked plans, Feet that run rapidly to evil,  A false witness who utters lies, And one who spreads strife among brothers.” (Proverbs 6:16-19 – NASB – emphasis added)

Over half of the things God absolutely hates have to do with gossip and slander! I believe we must indeed memorize these verses. Don’t shoot the messenger. To repeat my Pastor Dr. Charles Stanley: “I did not say it. God did.”

“For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand so that we would walk in them.” Ephesians 2:10

Lord, I praise You for although we often fail in our walk, your Word is a lamp always ready to shed light into our darkness. I pray that You will search our hearts and show us the true motives behind our words, that we may repent and conduct lives that honor You. Help us to be careful not to judge and condemn innocent people and help us always be slow to speak and quick to hear. May you guide Your people to walk in righteousness, that we may live separated indeed to be salt and light in a dark world. Give us a burning desire to despise the things that You hate. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

The Trap of Deception

Passage: James 1:19-26

Key Verses:
“But don’t just listen to God’s word. You must do what it says. Otherwise, you are only fooling yourselves. For if you listen to the word and don’t obey, it is like glancing at your face in a mirror. You see yourself, walk away, and forget what you look like. But if you look carefully into the perfect law that sets you free, and if you do what it says and don’t forget what you heard, then God will bless you for doing it.” James 22-25 (NLT)

Labor day 2011 – a much welcome day of rest for our household. We decided we would do nothing but rest and enjoy each other last Monday. Our children were playing, so I decided to turn on the television. “The View” was coming on with a very special guest – Lady Gaga! I saw it as an opportunity to, for the first time hear this very controversial character; the “Madonna of Generation Z.” So, as the liberal hosts in the show asked this New Yorker about her reaction to the passing of the law allowing same-sex marriage, the star had to gather herself. Emotions ran through her face as she talked about how proud and excited she was to be a New Yorker. No surprise there. But then… the camera focused on the live audience. People were beaming, clapping their hands and shouting in approval. In that split-second, the Lord spoke in my heart: “How many of these people do you think were sitting at church yesterday?” The answer came immediately: “More than you would think.”

There is a fast-growing movement in the Christian world that scares me. It compels me to pray for mercy, conviction and guidance for all Christians I know - friends, family, leaders, including myself. It is designed by the father of lies and deception and it is unfortunately sweeping over our churches, Christian organizations and families. The underlying objective is to defeat the effectiveness of the church, to make us lose the “salt and light” quality that we should live out in society and ultimately to make us become stumbling blocks for the lost. This movement, certainly led by satan himself and his army, uses very effective weapons, such as compromise and pride.

Compromise – The Blunt Deception

There are numerous issues that have become acceptable and even fashionable in the last decades. These would send our founding fathers into a permanent state of shock. I will take just the homosexuality issue as an example, but there are many others.

Do you think our grand-parents would imagine that one day a man would be able to actually marry a man? Or that some states would embrace a curriculum that teaches kindergartners that such diverse families are acceptable and appropriate? Do you think that they would ever imagine that a sector of a certain Christian denomination would actually embrace that lifestyle as normal and acceptable, when the Word of God is so clear regarding this issue. I’m confused as to which part of the verses below is not clear for some people:

“So God abandoned them to do whatever shameful things their hearts desired. As a result, they did vile and degrading things with each other’s bodies. They traded the truth about God for a lie. So they worshiped and served the things God created instead of the Creator himself, who is worthy of eternal praise! Amen. That is why God abandoned them to their shameful desires. Even the women turned against the natural way to have sex and instead indulged in sex with each other. And the men, instead of having normal sexual relations with women, burned with lust for each other. Men did shameful things with other men, and as a result of this sin, they suffered within themselves the penalty they deserved. Since they thought it foolish to acknowledge God, he abandoned them to their foolish thinking and let them do things that should never be done." Romans 1:24-28 (NLT emphasis added)

But wait, NO!! You cannot say that without being labeled as “homophobic”, “hateful” and “judgmental.” And there, my sisters and brothers, is where our real problem lies. As this movement grows faster than kudzu under the Georgia sun, we, the church, for the most part, remain silent. We do talk about it amongst ourselves, but when one of our pastors or leaders dares to stand up for what is actually God’s Word, not their opinion, the world cries “Crucify him (or her!)” No surprise there either - the same cry was heard over 2,000 years ago.

So - Where is the church? How brave are we when the world claps their hands in approval of iniquity and unrighteousness? Are we showing the love of Christ by compromising? Absolutely not! God loves all sinners, but hates sin! We are absolutely not to ever hate the people who commit such sins – we must love them. After all, we are under the same condition, apart from Christ’s saving grace – we are all equally sinners. The only difference is the acceptance or rebuttal of God’s grace and forgiveness through Christ who cleans all iniquity. But we must, we absolutely must speak the truth in love and guide the lost into the truth. Only then we may say we are indeed Christ-like. Just think about it - we don’t find any passage in the Gospels where Jesus’ message to the sinners is “I understand your predicament, my dear. It must be hard for you. Just go and perform some good deeds and you will be fine. You don’t need to change a thing.” His message was clear – like in the passage of the adulterous woman after she tells Him that her accusers had left. He said: “I do not condemn you, either. Go. From now on sin no more.” (John 8:11 NASB – emphasis added.) In other words: “I love you my dear, so much so that I am actually going to die for your sins that you may be accepted by the Father. But you must stop living in sin.” Period.

The issue of condoning sins such as abortion and homosexuality is such a clear erroneous behavior for the church of Christ that I must believe that most of the people who are reading this message probably don’t have any problems standing up against them. But there is an even greater danger that lurks in our churches today. It’s greater because many times it is invisible… it start in one’s heart and its manifestations may be confined to the secret of their home, when no one is watching. This issue is found in common folks who fill the pews every Sunday, as well as in the lives of men who preach the gospel, Christian music performers and Sunday school leaders.

Internal Religion – The Subtle Deception

“For you are not a true Jew just because you were born of Jewish parents or because you have gone through the ceremony of circumcision. No, a true Jew is one whose heart is right with God. And true circumcision is not merely obeying the letter of the law; rather, it is a change of heart produced by God’s Spirit. And a person with a changed heart seeks praise from God, not from people”. Romans 2:28-29 – NLT

Outward Expressions of Faith

There is nothing wrong with outward expressions of faith. A person who is right with God praises Him and naturally seeks to serve His kingdom with the gifts God gave him or her. However, outward expressions of faith should be the RESULT of a changed heart, much like the circumcision became the sign that God gave Abraham and his descendants BECAUSE he believed. The truth is that outward expressions of faith such as good deeds, church attendance, baptism, etc, should be a CONSEQUENCE of the condition of our hearts. Unfortunately, that is not always the case. Many people go to church and serve for personal gain, to be seen, to be accepted or to impress someone. This is what Jesus says about it:

“Beware of practicing your righteousness before men to be noticed by them; otherwise you have no reward with your Father who is in heaven.” Matthew 6:1 (NASB)

In other words, “I hope you enjoyed the applause. That’s all you get.”

Really – who do we think we fool? Almighty God, the heart-reader, the One who knows exactly what our reasons are for doing what we do? If it is not to glorify Him and attract people to HIM, you might as well retire your gifts. They are useless in God’s eyes.

Twelve inches

“Many will say to Me on that day, ‘Lord, Lord, did we not prophesy in Your name, and in Your name cast out demons, and in Your name perform many miracles?’ And then I will declare to them, ‘I never knew you;
DEPART FROM ME, YOU WHO PRACTICE LAWLESSNESS.’” Matthew 7:20-23 (NLT)

What a sobering thought! “I never knew you”, He said. This passage shows us that some of us will be surprised before God. I know Jesus is talking about people who never had a true change of heart; however I believe God will also judge the true motives of Christians who perform many good things for God but whose hearts are full of pride and remain unchanged. God knows the truth behind our “religious deeds.” It does not matter that we are at church every time the door is open, if at home we disrespect our spouse or neglect our children. It does not matter that we serve in Sunday school or do anything “for God,” if we go home and turn our computers to view pornographic websites. It does not matter if we sing praises to the Lord with the same lips that curse our neighbor or “spread strife amongst the brethren.”

God HATES these things (Proverbs 6:16-19). That is when our “religion” becomes an abomination to the Lord: “Either make the tree good and its fruit good, or make the tree bad and its fruit bad; for the tree is known by its fruit.” Matt 12:33 (NASB)

If only the church were busier seeking to LIVE the Word, not just preach it! The world would be a much better place. We would have stronger churches, better marriages, and more God-honoring children. We would have a lost world that would look at us for direction, not judgment.

At the end of the day, the twelve inches that separate our heads (what we know) from our hearts (what we do with what we know) is what defines TRUE RELIGION. God is not impressed with how many verses of the Bible I memorize or how much I do in church. He’s not even impressed by what I say when I pray. He wants my heart. He wants to look into my life and see someone who bears much fruit BECAUSE she honors and loves Him … The consequence of such love and devotion will be a life that shines brightly for Christ – one whose testimony will attract the lost to the life-changing power of the cross.


Dearest Father! That we may learn that it is our heart, not our service that You want. Convict us, oh Lord. Give us courage to lovingly stand up for what is right, even if everyone else turns against us. Teach us to serve You with the only intent to help Your kingdom grow on earth, not for personal gain. Teach us to love and honor You when no one else is watching. In Jesus’ Name I Pray, Amen!

Restless (Part II) – The Remedy

“Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God.  And the peace of God, which surpasses all comprehension, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” Philippians 4:6-7

“For me, be it Christ, be it Christ hence to live:
If Jordan above me shall roll,
No pang shall be mine, for in death as in life,
Thou wilt whisper Thy peace to my soul.”

                “Saved alone.”

These two words pierced Horatio Spafford’s soul as he sat on his desk in Chicago, after receiving the infamous telegram from his wife in 1873. She and their four daughters were sailing to Europe, ahead of Horatio, who had been deterred by business issues following the great Chicago fire of 1871. Their ship sank in the middle of the Atlantic and all four of Spafford’s daughters died. Shortly afterwards, Horatio travelled to meet his grieving wife. History has it that, when his ship was sailing above the very spot where his daughters’ ship had sunk, Horatio went back to his cabin and wrote the words to one of the most moving Hymns ever written: “It is well with my soul.” Had this been the only tragedy in Horatio’s life, I may have looked a bit further for inspiration for this message. But his long-lasting grief was beyond imagination to me: he lost his only son in 1871; lost much of his business in the Great Fire in the same year; lost his four daughters in one day. He lived to have three more children, one of whom (a son) died in infancy. If there was a soul in modern history who knew the peace that surpasses all understanding of Philippians 4, that person is Horatio Spafford. He found, as Paul did, the peace that does not rely on possessions, people or circumstances.

In the first part of this devotional, we saw that there are very good reasons for which God’s children should never stress over their problems. Most of the times we cannot control them, anyway. In the second part of verse 4, Paul gives us the recipe to find the peace that surpasses all understanding. He said “but”, in other words, “instead of” worrying and being anxious, “in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving, let you requests be made known to God.” What sounds like a simplistic way of approaching our problems and dilemmas in life, is a tested and proven solution to bring rest to a troubled spirit. There is no magic in prayer. There is Power - divine, endless power.

Curare et Orare

Bengel, a Lutheran priest who lived in the 17^th Century made the following analogy regarding anxiety and prayer: “Anxiety and Prayer (Curare et Orare) are more opposed to each other than fire and water.”

The paradox between the two concepts lies in the fact that prayer, when rendered with faith and trust, should be the very instrument to drive away all notions of care and stress from our minds. If we think of it as the “connection” with God, whose love, power and mercy are infinite and who promises to cause all things to work for our good, we would certainly carry out lives with less stress and more prayer. The idea in verse 6 is that we should, in everything; in each emergency, little or great, as it arises,  pray. The two words herein rendered “prayer” and “supplication”, occur together again in Ephesians 6:18 and 1 Timothy 2:1:

“With all prayer and petition pray at all times in the Spirit, and with this in view, be on the alert with all perseverance and petition for all the saints”

“I urge that entreaties and prayers, petitions and thanksgivings, be made on behalf of all men,”

The first word “prayer” refers to the general conversation of our souls with God; “supplications” consist of the more specific requests for ourselves and others. Intercessory prayer is one of the Christian’s duty; we must pray in order to have a relationship with the Father; we cannot separate the two. Show me a person who does not pray and I will show you someone who cannot claim God’s peace and direction for his/her life. Although God speaks to His people in different ways, I do believe it is when we pray that we hear Him more intimately. It is distracting to me to think that a child of God would seek His face in prayer only in times of desperate need. How can we run to the Father in emergencies, if we don’t spend time to know Him through prayer? How can we boldly ask Him for our needs and desires, if we do not come back to thank Him every day for His blessings?   

Peace In the Lion’s Den

The first time I saw the above picture of Daniel in the Lion’s den was at our pastor’s office. I remember the emotions that ran through my spirit as I watched the faces of the lions… reverent, scared, controlled wild animals, in total submission to the Power who created them. And then I looked at Daniel, his face looking upwards, arms crossed behind his back in peaceful realization that Yahweh (the Hebrew name of God  meaning “the One who Brings  Into Existence Whatever Exists)”, the very One who had called him to live, knew when he was or was not to die. I fell in love with the piece so much that we now have a framed copy in our home.

Daniel had formed a habit of prayer. As a matter of fact, the Bible says that even when King Darius signed the document that prohibited all men to pray to “any god besides him,”  the first thing Daniel did was to go to his house, kneel down and pray, as he had done every day. As the verdict from the king came and Daniel was thrown into the Lion’s Den, he knew that, because he was obedient, he could trust Yahweh to protect him. The peace that he found as he brought his petitions to God in prayer followed him to the Lion’s Den.  The same peace will follow you as you face your lions and giants in life’s valleys and battles.

What is God’s Peace?

It is the Peace that He Himself possesses. It is the peace that Jesus promised His disciples: “Peace I leave with you; My peace I give to you; not as the world gives do I give to you. Do not let your heart be troubled, nor let it be fearful.” (John 14:27 – NASB)

Because it is divine peace, it transcends our circumstances. It’s not simply freedom from troubles, but a deeply-set harmony with the One who is the Source of true peace. That is why Paul calls this the “peace that surpasses all (human) understanding.”It is the peace that only those who are reconciled with God can possess, because “He Himself is our Peace” (Ephesians 2:14)

It is child-like peace - because it flows from a solid trust that the Father will take care of His children. It is the peace that comes from the same blessed assurance which a little child has, that daddy will be there for them when they need him; or that daddy can do just about anything: “Now to Him who is able to do far more abundantly beyond all that we ask or think.” Ephesians 3:20 – NASB.

It is an armed Guard - It is very interesting that Paul uses the term “guard” when it comes to the peace of God in our hearts. To guard is a warrior’s duty and war and peace are also as opposites as fire and water. However, God herein promises that as we bring all our cares to Him by prayer and supplication, thanking Him for what He will surely do, He shall then place His peace in the entrance of our hearts and minds as a guard against the enemy. This peace will guard our hearts and our thoughts as a strong warrior, so that no disturbing thoughts shall enter our minds. That is how effectively anxiety can be destroyed in the heart of those who seek repose in God through prayer and thanksgiving.

The next time anxiety and worry try to rob your peace, I urge you will cry out to God in prayer, supplication and with thanksgiving, having the assurance that He will send the great Guard, His Peace, to keep your heart and mind centered in His truth. As you reach out to God in prayer, He will remind you of who you are – His beloved child! And although He may allow the strongest of storms to come your way, remember: He is holding you, in the hollow of His hand and shall never, ever let you go.

Dear Lord, thank you for Your Peace. Remind me to reach out to you in times of distress; remind me of promises You have given me in Your Word and remind me of whom I am in Christ – Your child, loved and cherished by You. I trust You will give me the strength to withstand the trials You allow in my life, and I thank you for each trial that You have helped me overcome. I pray You send me Your peace – unfathomable, perfect Peace.  In Jesus’ precious Name, Amen!