Anxious…

Anxious…

Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. ~ Philippians 4:6-7

Our Word of the Day conjures up thoughts and feelings that have put us at uneasiness of mind. There is so much going on in our world and in our lives that has us worried … filled with angst, apprehension, dread, and even fear. We feel tense and troubled amid the noise of disagreement, conflict, and violence. Yet, here we are instructed to not be anxious about anything. Easier said than done, right?

But perhaps we have missed the most salient point of this passage: the Peace of God! Have we lost connection with the peace of God? Where is this peace? How can it be found in a world with confusion, disruption, and deception all around us? I think we need to explore this issue further and see what the Scriptures hold for our instruction.

Peace begins with relationship … a personal relationship with God through His Son, Christ Jesus. King David, in his personal time spent with God, prayed: “Search me, God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts.” (Psalm 139:23) Yes, in every situation we are to pray. We are to petition and present our requests to God. For prayer is how an intimate relationship with God is forged. We go to Him! He is the God who sees and hears! Indeed, “Cast all your anxiety on Him because He cares for you.” (1 Peter 5:7) As King David penned: “Cast your cares on the Lord and He will sustain you; He will never let the righteous be shaken.” (Psalm 55:22)

Peace is conferred with reception … it is a spiritual blessing received from God. Notice the text says “the peace OF God.” It is HIS peace … a peace that transcends all understanding … that is available to us when we pray and seek Him. Peace is what we receive through relationship with our trustworthy, faithful God! Consider what Jesus shared with His disciples in this regard:

John 14:25-27 (NIV)

“All this I have spoken while still with you. But the Advocate, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, will teach you all things and will remind you of everything I have said to you. Peace, I leave with you; my peace I give to you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.

Again, we see that the peace of God is a gift. Jesus urges us to not be troubled or afraid about anything. He is with us! His Word is in us! His Holy Spirit indwells us and reminds us of everything He has said. Clearly, the promise of God to never leave us nor forsake us is true. “I will not leave you as orphans; I will come to you.” (John 14:18) But the question becomes, “Have we left Him?” “Do we neglect to spend time in communion with Him? My friend, God will come to guard your heart and mind with His peace, but you have to meet with Him … spend time with Him … submit your life to Him … and then let your heart receive the peace He will give you.

Peace is sustained with repetition. To practice peace, Paul gives us this instruction:

Philippians 4:8-9 (NIV)

Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things. Whatever you have learned or received or heard from me, or seen in me—put it into practice. And the God of peace will be with you.

Well, I hope your thoughts have been inspired … and any anxieties have been subdued. I pray you will have confidence in His love and protection in all circumstances! Yes, “May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in Him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit. (Romans 15:13) Amen. I will end with this favorite passage:

Psalm 27:1-3

The Lord is my light and my salvation— whom shall I fear? The Lord is the stronghold of my life— of whom shall I be afraid? When the wicked advance against me to devour me, it is my enemies and my foes who will stumble and fall. Though an army besiege me, my heart will not fear; though war break out against me, even then I will be confident.

Have a Blessed Day!

Weary…

Weary…

Then Jesus said, “Come to me, all of you who are weary and carry heavy burdens, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you. Let me teach you, because I am humble and gentle at heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy to bear, and the burden I give you is light.” (Matthew 11:28-30 NLT)

Weary is a word that describes our human condition far too often. We get caught up in the snares of over engagement. We labor at great length. We carry emotional and spiritual burdens far too heavy for us. The loads of life itself just bring us to sheer exhaustion. We are worn out … fatigued … drained as a result of excessive exertion and lack of sleep. Is it any wonder why we have become distressed and disheartened in this world?

Looking at these realities, I have found great comfort in the words of Jesus. I want to find rest … rest for my soul. Indeed, Jesus invites us each of us to come to Him and to learn from Him. For the Lord will keep in perfect peace all who trust in Him … all whose thoughts are fixed on Him. (Cf. Isaiah 26:3) He gives strength to the weary and increases the power of the weak. (Isaiah 40:29) And Jesus said to His disciples: “In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.” (John 16:33)

King David was a man who often faced the dangers of war and the burdens of governing the people of Israel. Yet, he advised: “Cast your cares of the Lord and He will sustain you; He will never let the righteous be shaken.” (Psalm 55:22) Likewise, the Apostle Peter drew upon this scripture and urged: “Humble yourselves, therefore, under God’s mighty hand, that He may lift you up in due time. Cast all your anxiety on Him because He cares for you. (1 Peter 5:6-7) And Paul gave us this encouragement: “Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” (Philippians 4:6-7)

My friends, Father God has provided us wise counsel in His Word to lean upon Jesus and to trust Him in all circumstances. Let us remember the purpose of all our labors in life is to bear fruit to the glory of God. Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up. (Galatians 6:9) Yes, consider Jesus who endured such opposition from sinners, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart. (Hebrews 12:3) But most of all, take some time to rest at the feet of Jesus. Like Mary, we can still choose what is best! (Luke 10:38-42)

Have a Blessed Day!

Peace…

Peace…

As I contemplated the horrific and tragic events that occurred over the past week in Israel, I was drawn to Psalm 122 – when King David urged the people to pray for the peace of Jerusalem. He continued and petitioned: “May those who love you be secure. May there be peace within your walls and security within your citadels.” For the sake of my family and friends, I will say, “Peace be within you. For the sake of the house of the Lord our God, I will seek your prosperity. (6-9)

Yet, centuries later, as Jesus approached Jerusalem and saw the city, He wept over it and said, “If you, even you, had only known on this day what would bring you peace—but now it is hidden from your eyes. The days will come upon you when your enemies will build an embankment against you and encircle you and hem you in on every side. They will dash you to the ground, you and the children within your walls. They will not leave one stone on another, because you did not recognize the time of God’s coming to you.” ~ Luke 19:41-44

As the people of Israel look for peace with their neighbors, there is a deep sorrow within my heart for them … and for all who have a veil over their eyes concerning WHO would bring them true peace. Paul, too, felt anguish in his heart for the salvation of his people. He noted that they are zealous for God, but their zeal is not based on knowledge. (Romans 10:1-2) As John testified about Jesus: “He was in the world, and though the world was made through Him, the world did not recognize Him. He came to that which was His own, but His own did not receive Him. (John 1:10-11)

As we pray for peace to ensue in Israel in the days ahead, let us be mindful to pray for the people of God to find true peace … peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ. For God was pleased to have all His fullness dwell in Jesus, and through Him to reconcile to Himself all things, whether things on earth or things in heaven, by making peace through His blood, shed on the cross. (Colossians 1:19-20) Indeed, some of the dearest words our Savior ever spoke were these words: “My peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid. (John 14:27) Yes, it is my prayer that Israel will come to faith in Jesus the Messiah … Yeshua Hamashiach.

Have a Blessed Day!

Great Peace!

Psalm 119:165 (NIV)

Great peace have those who love your law, and nothing can make them stumble.

Our Verse of the Day brings to light the great impact of having a state of peace within our lives; and it awaits those who obey the righteous instruction of God. Those who love God and obey Him will experience “great peace” in their lives. Indeed, I think all of us want to have this depth of peace with God … and to attain peace in our relationships with one another. Because God has created us as relational creatures, I believe seeking and finding peace is an inner desire within each of us. Peace is defined as a state of tranquility or quiet; a state of security or order; harmony in personal relations; an agreement to end hostilities between those who have been at war or in a state of enmity; and freedom from disquieting or oppressive thoughts or emotions. Can you personally relate to any of these definitions? But in order to have peace in our lives, I believe the first state of peace we must find and embrace is peace with God Himself … for He is the source of all peace. (Cf. Romans 15:33; Cf. 2 Thessalonians 3:16) If we follow His commands, we will not stumble in this experience of life. Having the Law of God, the revealed will of our Creator, gives us knowledge and assurance; and therefore, confidence and great peace. If we want peace in our lives, we need to set our affection on the Word of God … its wisdom and counsel … because it reveals the heart of our Creator.

Psalm 119:161-168 (NIV)

ש Sin and Shin

¹⁶¹Rulers persecute me without cause, but my heart trembles at your word.
¹⁶²I rejoice in your promise like one who finds great spoil.
¹⁶³I hate and detest falsehood but I love your law.
¹⁶⁴Seven times a day I praise you for your righteous laws.
¹⁶⁵Great peace have those who love your law, and nothing can make them stumble.
¹⁶⁶I wait for your salvation, Lord, and I follow your commands.
¹⁶⁷I obey your statutes, for I love them greatly.
¹⁶⁸I obey your precepts and your statutes, for all my ways are known to you.

Just as God provides us peace through His Word, God has granted us the capacity to experience true peace with Him through His Son, our Lord Jesus! Through His atoning sacrifice for our sin upon the cross, Jesus reconciled us to the Father and brought us peace. As the Prophet Isaiah foretold of the Messiah: “Surely, He took up our pain and bore our suffering, yet we considered Him punished by God, stricken by Him, and afflicted. But He was pierced for our transgressions, He was crushed for our iniquities; the punishment that brought us peace was on Him, and by His wounds we are healed. We all, like sheep, have gone astray, each of us has turned to our own way; and the Lord has laid on Him the iniquity of us all. (Cf. Isaiah 53:4-6) So Paul, when writing to the Colossians, expounded on this grace imparted peace through the life and death of Christ Jesus:

Colossians 1:15-23 (NIV)

¹⁵The Son is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn over all creation. ¹⁶For in Him all things were created: things in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or powers or rulers or authorities; all things have been created through Him and for Him. ¹⁷He is before all things, and in Him all things hold together. ¹⁸And He is the head of the body, the church; He is the beginning and the firstborn from among the dead, so that in everything He might have the supremacy. ¹⁹For God was pleased to have all His fullness dwell in Him, ²⁰and through Him to reconcile to Himself all things, whether things on earth or things in heaven, by making peace through His blood, shed on the cross. ²¹Once you were alienated from God and were enemies in your minds because of your evil behavior. ²²But now He has reconciled you by Christ’s physical body through death to present you holy in His sight, without blemish and free from accusation— ²³if you continue in your faith, established and firm, and do not move from the hope held out in the gospel. This is the gospel that you heard and that has been proclaimed to every creature under heaven, and of which I, Paul, have become a servant.

So here is the connection: Jesus fulfilled the Law of God! He is the ever living, everlasting Word of God! Yes, in Jesus we receive the great peace of God! Indeed, Jesus is our only source of true peace! I am convinced that none of us will experience peace with God except that we receive the reconciliation He has afforded us through Jesus. Once a person enters into a personal, relationship with God through Christ, the love and peace of God will guard their hearts and minds. (Cf. Philippians 4:7) As Paul assured the Thessalonians, “May God Himself, the God of peace, sanctify you through and through. May your whole spirit, soul and body be kept blameless at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ.” (Cf. 1 Thessalonians 5:13) And, “Now may the Lord of peace Himself give you peace at all times and in every way. The Lord be with all of you.” (Cf. 2 Thessalonians 3:16) Jesus is the Prince of Peace who will fill you with His peace … a peace that surpasses all understanding. He is the Gospel of Peace embodied. Therefore, since we have been justified through faith, let us have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom we have gained access by faith into this grace in which we now stand.” (Cf. Romans 5:1-2)

As a reminder, let us not lose sight of the purpose for which the Father has granted us peace through His Son. This is our calling in Christ: to pursue righteousness, faith, love, and peace along with those who call on the Lord our of a pure heart. (Cf. 2 Timothy 2:22) We are to be peaceable and considerate, and always to be gentle toward everyone. (Cf. Titus 3:2). Let us therefore make every effort to do what leads to peace and to mutual edification. (Cf. Romans 14:19) If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone. (Cf. Romans 12:18) It is clear that peace is requisite for healthy relationships … without which we cannot experience true fellowship, friendship, companionship, or intimacy. Knowing God. Knowing His Law (His Word). Knowing His love for us through His Son, Jesus. These will produce “great peace” in our hearts … a deep, inner peace that empowers us to extend His grace and peace to those around us!

So Now You Know…

Have a Blessed Day!

Peace … I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid. ~ John 14:27

Do Not Be Anxious…

Philippians 4:6-7 (NIV)

Our Verse of the Day is a timely refresher as we focus on a life of prayer. This is especially important as we experience higher levels of uncertainty and anxiety in the world at the moment. God calls us to trust Him! He comforts us saying, “Do not be anxious about what is happening; rather, pray to Him and seek Him for the peace of mind that we need.” Indeed, I think about what Jesus shared with His disciples … encouraging them to watch and pray when the tribulations of life on earth accelerate:

Luke 21:25-36 (NIV)

“There will be signs in the sun, moon and stars. On the earth, nations will be in anguish and perplexity at the roaring and tossing of the sea. People will faint from terror, apprehensive of what is coming on the world, for the heavenly bodies will be shaken. At that time, they will see the Son of Man coming in a cloud with power and great glory. When these things begin to take place, stand up and lift up your heads, because your redemption is drawing near.” He told them this parable: “Look at the fig tree and all the trees. When they sprout leaves, you can see for yourselves and know that summer is near. Even so, when you see these things happening, you know that the Kingdom of God is near. “Truly I tell you, this generation will certainly not pass away until all these things have happened. Heaven and earth will pass away, but my words will never pass away. “Be careful, or your hearts will be weighed down with carousing, drunkenness and the anxieties of life, and that day will close on you suddenly like a trap. For it will come on all those who live on the face of the whole earth. Be always on the watch, and pray that you may be able to escape all that is about to happen, and that you may be able to stand before the Son of Man.”

Yes, Jesus told us to ALWAYS be on the watch … and to pray with a focus on two petitions:

1. That we may be able to escape all that is about to happen

2. That we may be able to stand before the Son of Man

Likewise, Jesus taught us: “Watch and pray so that you will not fall into temptation. The spirit is willing, but the flesh is weak.” (Cf. Matthew 26:41) Yes, we need to be on watch and to guard our hearts in preparation for His coming. Through prayer, we are equipped t walk in confidence as we trust Christ Jesus. As Paul admonished, let us all to continue in prayer and let the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, guard our hearts and our minds in Christ Jesus. Prayer is vital! Prayer is commanded! Indeed, we need to be people of prayer because it will keep us grounded in the truth … protected from deception … and active participants in the spiritual battle between light and darkness that is engulfing our nation and the world.

So Now You Know…

Have a Blessed Day!

Devote yourselves to prayer, being watchful and thankful. And pray for us, too, that God may open a door for our message, so that we may proclaim the mystery of Christ, for which I am in chains. Pray that I may proclaim it clearly, as I should. Be wise in the way you act toward outsiders; make the most of every opportunity. Let your conversation be always full of grace, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how to answer everyone. ~ Cf. Colossians 4:2-6

Like A Shepherd … Lead Us

Psalm 23:1-3 (NIV)

The Lord is my Shepherd, I lack nothing. He makes me lie down in green pastures; He leads me beside quiet waters; He refreshes my soul. He guides me along the right paths for His name’s sake.

With all of the uncertainties going on in the world – economic turmoil, geopolitical unrest, cultural division, etc.; perhaps we needed this reminder that the Lord Jesus is our Shepherd! We lack nothing when we have Him! He will keep us calm when the world panics. Jesus will refresh our souls with His peace in our hearts as we keep our hearts and minds focused on Him. As the Prophet Isaiah wrote: “You will keep in perfect peace those whose minds are steadfast, because they trust in you.” (Cf. Isaiah 26:3) Yes, God will meet all our needs according to the riches of His glory in Christ Jesus! Amen! (Cf. Philippians 4:19)

I want to reprint the entire Psalm for us to read:

Psalm 23 (ESV)

¹The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want.
²He makes me lie down in green pastures. He leads me beside still waters.
³He restores my soul. He leads me in paths of righteousness for His name’s sake.

⁴Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me.

⁵You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies; you anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows.
⁶Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life, and I shall dwell in the house of the Lord forever.

What comforts me the most through this meditation of King David is the sense of peace we can have in God. It is a relational peace like none other; and I believe we need to remember the peace that He gives … that we can have within us. So here are a few Scriptures to keep us remain close to the God of Peace:

John 14:25-27 (NIV)

“All this I have spoken while still with you. But the Advocate, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, will teach you all things and will remind you of everything I have said to you. Peace, I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.

Philippians 4:7 (NIV)

2 Thessalonians 3:16 (NIV)

Now may the Lord of peace Himself give you peace at all times and in every way. The Lord be with all of you.

Oh, my friends, I pray that you are filled with the peace of God … that His peace will abide in you as we walk through unsettled times in this world of tribulation. And I pray we will be diligent to share with unbelievers how they too can experience the peace that Jesus gives as our Shepherd. He leads … He provides … He restores … He comforts … He secures. Yes, let us proclaim what Jesus has affirmed to all: “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.” (Cf. Matthew 11:28)

So Now You Know…

Have a Blessed Day!

“I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd lays down His life for the sheep. The hired hand is not the shepherd and does not own the sheep. So, when he sees the wolf coming, he abandons the sheep and runs away. Then the wolf attacks the flock and scatters it. The man runs away because he is a hired hand and cares nothing for the sheep. “I am the good shepherd; I know my sheep and my sheep know me.” ~ John 10:11-14

You Are a Faithful God

Psalm 33:4-5 (NIV)

For the word of the Lord is right and true; He is faithful in all He does. The Lord loves righteousness and justice; the earth is full of His unfailing love.

As I contemplate the theme of our recent studies, I am captured by the confirmation of our Verse of the Day regarding the faithfulness of God and His Word. Our verses have been prophetic – encouraging us to rely on God … His strength … His wisdom … His power to affect every situation and circumstance in our lives. And now this verse reminds us and affirms for us: God is trustworthy … He is faithful … His love is unfailing! I just love how King David captured these truths that we are urged to ponder and meditate upon.

I have reprinted the complete Psalm 33 for your convenience. There is no need for further comment. Just let it fill you with hope and bless your inner being today.

Psalm 33 (NIV)

¹Sing joyfully to the Lord, you righteous; it is fitting for the upright to praise Him.
²Praise the Lord with the harp; make music to Him on the ten-stringed lyre.
³Sing to Him a new song; play skillfully, and shout for joy.

⁴For the Word of the Lord is right and true; He is faithful in all He does.
⁵The Lord loves righteousness and justice; the earth is full of His unfailing love.

⁶By the word of the Lord the heavens were made, their starry host by the breath of His mouth.
⁷He gathers the waters of the sea as into a heap; He puts the deep into storehouses.
⁸Let all the earth fear the Lord; let all the people of the world revere Him.
⁹For He spoke, and it came to be; He commanded, and it stood firm.

¹⁰The Lord foils the plans of the nations; He thwarts the purposes of the peoples.
¹¹But the plans of the Lord stand firm forever, the purposes of His heart through all generations.

¹²Blessed is the nation whose God is the Lord, the people He chose for His inheritance.
¹³From heaven the Lord looks down and sees all mankind;

¹⁴From His dwelling place He watches all who live on earth—
¹⁵He who forms the hearts of all, who considers everything they do.

¹⁶No king is saved by the size of his army; no warrior escapes by his great strength.
¹⁷A horse is a vain hope for deliverance; despite all its great strength it cannot save.
¹⁸But the eyes of the Lord are on those who fear Him, on those whose hope is in His unfailing love,
¹⁹To deliver them from death and keep them alive in famine.

²⁰We wait in hope for the Lord; He is our help and our shield.
²¹In Him our hearts rejoice, for we trust in His holy name.
²²May your unfailing love be with us, Lord, even as we put our hope in you.

So Now You Know…

Have a Blessed Day!

Answer me quickly, Lord; my spirit fails. Do not hide your face from me or I will be like those who go down to the pit. Let the morning bring me word of your unfailing love, for I have put my trust in you. Show me the way I should go, for to you I entrust my life. Rescue me from my enemies, Lord, for I hide myself in you. ~ Psalm 143:7-9

You Are My Strength…

Psalm 18:1-2 (NIV)

I love you, Lord, my strength. The Lord is my rock, my fortress and my deliverer; my God is my rock, in whom I take refuge, my shield and the horn of my salvation, my stronghold.

Our Verse of the Day continues to remind us that God is the source of our strength. He is our rock, our fortress, and deliverer when we are facing the challenges and battles of life. He invites us to take refuge in Him … to allow Him to be our defense … our shield. There is no power like our God! Indeed, what a powerful word we have from the inspired pen of King David!

Oh, I just sense there is someone … or perhaps many who need this Verse of the Day! You are fighting spiritual battles … that are beyond your own understanding … beyond your own strength … beyond your own abilities. Let me assure you they are battles that belong to the Lord! You do not have to carry them! You were not meant to carry them! God is wanting to show you HIS power, HIS strength, HIS love and care for you … in order to build your faith and to increase your trust in HIM and Him alone! For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms. (Cf. Ephesians 6:12)

Paul gives us some spiritual context for the battles we all will face in life: “For though we live in the world, we do not wage war as the world does. The weapons of our warfare are not of the world; on the contrary, they have divine power to demolish the strongholds of the enemy. We demolish arguments and every pretension that sets itself up against the knowledge of God, and we take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ.” (Cf. 2 Corinthians 10:3-5) Yes, the battle belongs to the Lord! It is His divine power that will carry you through them! So, I encourage you to take up the sword of the Spirit … which is the Word of God. (Cf. Ephesians 6:17) For the Word of God is the ONLY offensive weapon we have been given for battle! Yes, the Word of God is sufficient to arm you … for it is the power of God unto salvation. The Word, along with our spiritual armor, equips us to be strong in the Lord and in His mighty power so that we will be able to stand our ground … and having done everything to stand! (Cf. Ephesians 6:10-17)

My friend, I encourage you to take every thought of defeat captive and to make it obedient to Christ. Through prayer, seek Him and allow Jesus to be your stronghold and fortress … your shield and strong tower. Go to Him in faith and trust that He goes ahead of you and that He is your rear-guard. Settle in your heart this truth: “No weapon formed against you will prevail, and you will refute every tongue that accuses you. This is the heritage of the servants of the Lord, and this is their vindication from me,” declares the Lord. (Cf. Isaiah 54:17) Yes, this is my prayer for you and all who are on the front lines of suffering and hardship … for those who are in engaged in any struggle to difficult to fight alone. Take refuge! Find rest in the Lord Jesus Christ! He invites each of us: “Come unto me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.” (Cf. Matthew 11:28-30) And Jesus has promised: “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid. (Cf. John 14:27) Oh, indeed, there is peace and rest for your heart that you can receive today! His name is Jesus, and He is watching over you. I pray that you will seek Him with all our heart….

So Now You Know…

Have a Blessed Day!

From the ends of the earth, I cry to you for help when my heart is overwhelmed. Lead me to the towering rock of safety, for you are my safe refuge, a fortress where my enemies cannot reach me. Let me live forever in your sanctuary, safe beneath the shelter of your wings! ~ Psalm 61:2-4

I Will Not Be Afraid…

Psalm 118:5-6 (NIV)

When hard pressed, I cried to the Lord; he brought me into a spacious place. The Lord is with me; I will not be afraid. What can mere mortals do to me?

I am excited about our Verse of the Day! I have always loved Psalm 118 and its message of reliance upon the Lord. The opening verse reveals the foundation on which our relationship with Father God is established. “Give thanks to the Lord, for He is good! His faithful love endures forever.” Yes, because God is faithful (Cf. Deuteronomy 7:9; 32:4), we give Him thanks and exalt Him for His great love toward us! King David was keenly aware of this incredible intimacy God desires to have with those who love Him. His unfailing love is the anchor of their faith and why it rests completely in Him! God invites us to trust Him in everything with our entire being … no matter what our eyes may see or how life circumstances appear. This is what moved David to seek God and His help in times of trouble. Indeed, God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in times of trouble. (Cf. Psalm 46:1)

Psalm 118:5-9 (NLT)

⁵In my distress I prayed to the Lord; and the Lord answered me and set me free. ⁶The Lord is for me, so I will have no fear. What can mere people do to me? Yes, the Lord is for me; He will help me. I will look in triumph at those who hate me. ⁸It is better to take refuge in the Lord than to trust in people. ⁹It is better to take refuge in the Lord than to trust in princes.

When I first read this verse, my thoughts wandered to all the times I’ve felt stressed out (hard pressed in the translation). And I think my “go-to” response has generally been to “cry out to the Lord” … meaning to pray to Him. There will always be dilemmas to navigate. There will always be questions we want answered. Why is this happening, Lord? Why is this happening to me? Like King David, we find can ourselves in the midst of great battles – distressed by difficult situations or circumstances and surrounded by an unseen enemy … fear. Somehow, David knew prayer would bring the presence of God into his personal circumstances. Prayer would be a channel for receiving discernment and wisdom from an all-knowing and all-loving God. So, no matter what we are facing, we need to remember that prayer should always be our first response. David expressed deep trust in God throughout His inspired writings. And I pray that each of us come to the place in our own walk of faith to profess: “Into Your hands I commit my spirit; deliver me, Lord, my faithful God. (Cf. Psalm 31:5) It foreshadows the final words that Jesus cried out from the cross: “Father, into Your hands I commit my spirit.” (Cf. Luke 23:46) In this prayer, we express the utmost trust in our God and Savior!

When David prayed, the more immediate benefit was that the Lord “brought him into a spacious place.” Other translations rendered it “broad” or “large” place. Metaphorically, David experienced a change of mental disposition. God helped him find perspective in his circumstances. When all David could see was the immediate pressing problem in front of him, God helped him see the larger, broader picture … the view from a higher altitude. And that is what David needed to relieve his stress … and more importantly … to calm his fear. In Verse 6, David comes to understand (through his time of prayer with God) that “the Lord is with him.” What a wonderful and powerful affirmation to receive when you and I become stressed out, worried, or fretful. God is with us! His Name is Emmanuel! Indeed, God is for us! We are more than conquerors through Him who loves us! (Cf. Romans 8:31-39)

The surrender of ourselves has always been a challenge for the human heart; and I believe it is the lack of sincere trust in our Creator that leads us to fear and paralysis. The Father urges us to rely upon Him and His strength to face the troubles of life … to entreat Him to rescue us when the battles come and grow fierce. And God will demonstrate the faithfulness of His love toward those who love and wholly trust Him. His Word declares His faithfulness:

You faithfully answer our prayers with awesome deeds, O God our Savior. You are the hope of everyone on earth, even those who sail on distant seas. ~ Psalm 65:5

I will praise you with the harp for your faithfulness, my God; I will sing praise to you with the lyre, Holy One of Israel. ~ Psalm 71:22

But you, Lord, are a compassionate and gracious God, slow to anger, abounding in love and faithfulness. ~ Psalm 86:15

O Lord God of Heaven’s Armies! Where is there anyone as mighty as you, O Lord? You are entirely faithful. ~ Psalm 89:8

He has remembered His love and His faithfulness to Israel; all the ends of the earth have seen the salvation of our God. ~ Psalm 98:3

Lord, you are my God; I will exalt you and praise your name, for in perfect faithfulness you have done wonderful things, things planned long ago. ~ Isaiah 25:1

So, the Lord must wait for you to come to Him so He can show you His love and compassion. For the Lord is a faithful God. Blessed are those who wait for His help. ~ Isaiah 30:18

Rejoice in the Lord your God! For the rain He sends demonstrates His faithfulness. Once more the autumn rains will come, as well as the rains of spring. ~ Joel 2:23

For the law was given through Moses, but God’s unfailing love and faithfulness came through Jesus Christ. ~ John 1:17

God is faithful, who has called you into fellowship with His Son, Jesus Christ our Lord. ~ 1 Corinthians 1:9

No temptation has overtaken you except what is common to mankind. And God is faithful; He will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, He will also provide a way out so that you can endure it. ~ 1 Corinthians 10:13

My friends, the Lord is ever faithful to you! You can trust Him in all circumstances of life! As Peter advised, “Cast all your anxiety upon because He cares for you!” (Cf. 1 Peter 5:7) And remember, “No weapon forged against you will prevail, and you will refute every tongue that accuses you. This is the heritage of the servants of the Lord, and this is their vindication from me,” declares the Lord.” (Cf. Isaiah 54:17)

So Now You Know…

Have a Blessed Day!

Have I not commanded you? Be strong and of good courage; do not be afraid, nor be dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.” ~ Joshua 1:9

I Have Told You…

John 16:33 (NIV)

“I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.”

When I read our Verse of the Day, I thought that it might be good to get some context. “I have told you these things….” What things? I want us to go back and look at what Jesus told His disciples that we might need in order to better understand the peace we can have in Him. When you read through the Gospel of John, you will find a great emphasis on the things that Jesus told His disciples. The Apostle John brings the words and teachings of Jesus to life in a way that draws us closer to Him … that makes Him personal and relatable. The intermittent commentary of John explains what is happening as Jesus speaks with heavenly wisdom and earthly conviction. And near the end of His ministry, as He prepared Himself and His followers for the cross, Jesus said, “When you have lifted up the Son of Man, then you will know that I am He and that I do nothing on my own but speak just what the Father has taught me.” (Cf. John 8:28) And we have further affirmation of this testimony when John recorded:

John 12:44-50 (NIV)

⁴⁴Then Jesus cried out, “Whoever believes in me does not believe in me only, but in the One who sent me. ⁴⁵The one who looks at me is seeing the One who sent me. ⁴⁶I have come into the world as a light, so that no one who believes in me should stay in darkness. ⁴⁷“If anyone hears my words but does not keep them, I do not judge that person. For I did not come to judge the world, but to save the world. ⁴⁸There is a judge for the one who rejects me and does not accept my words; the very words I have spoken will condemn them at the last day. ⁴⁹For I did not speak on my own, but the Father who sent me commanded me to say all that I have spoken. ⁵⁰I know that His command leads to eternal life. So, whatever I say is just what the Father has told me to say.”

Indeed, there are many things Jesus told His disciples which were recorded in prior chapters of this Gospel. Although I have reprinted some excerpts for us below, I encourage you to read Chapters 13-16 to view the entirety of what Jesus imparted in order to better understand His assurance of peace in the midst of the tribulation and persecution that will come to us who follow Him….

In John 13, we read about the Last Supper and Jesus preparing His disciples for the imminent events that were about to occur and would culminate in His arrest, trial, and crucifixion. He forewarned the disciples of what would take place, especially after He was gone; and He wanted to give them comfort and hope when afterwards they would eventually become scattered and lost in the confusion caused by His horrific death. Jesus began with these words: “Do not let your hearts be troubled.”

John 14:1-4 (NIV)

“Do not let your hearts be troubled. You believe in God; believe also in me. ²My Father’s house has many rooms; if that were not so, would I have told you that I am going there to prepare a place for you? ³And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come back and take you to be with me that you also may be where I am. ⁴You know the way to the place where I am going.”

John 14:15-18 (NIV)

¹⁵“If you love me, keep my commands. ¹⁶And I will ask the Father, and He will give you another advocate to help you and be with you forever— ¹⁷the Spirit of truth. The world cannot accept Him, because it neither sees Him nor knows Him. But you know him, for He lives with you and will be in you. ¹⁸I will not leave you as orphans; I will come to you.

John 14:25-29 (NIV)

²⁵ “All this I have spoken while still with you. ²⁶But the Advocate, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, will teach you all things and will remind you of everything I have said to you. ²⁷Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.²⁸“You heard me say, ‘I am going away and I am coming back to you.’ If you loved me, you would be glad that I am going to the Father, for the Father is greater than I. ²⁹I have told you now before it happens, so that when it does happen you will believe.

John 15:9-11 (NIV)

⁹“As the Father has loved me, so have I loved you. Now remain in my love. ¹⁰If you keep my commands, you will remain in my love, just as I have kept my Father’s commands and remain in his love. ¹¹I have told you this so that my joy may be in you and that your joy may be complete.

John 15:18-21 (NIV)

¹⁸“If the world hates you, keep in mind that it hated me first. ¹⁹If you belonged to the world, it would love you as its own. As it is, you do not belong to the world, but I have chosen you out of the world. That is why the world hates you. ²⁰Remember what I told you: ‘A servant is not greater than his master.’ If they persecuted me, they will persecute you also. If they obeyed my teaching, they will obey yours also. ²¹They will treat you this way because of my name, for they do not know the One who sent me.

John 16:1-5a (NIV)

“All this I have told you so that you will not fall away. ²They will put you out of the synagogue; in fact, the time is coming when anyone who kills you will think they are offering a service to God. ³They will do such things because they have not known the Father or me. ⁴I have told you this, so that when their time comes you will remember that I warned you about them. I did not tell you this from the beginning because I was with you, ⁵but now I am going to Him who sent me.

John 16:19-20 (NIV)

¹⁹Jesus saw that they wanted to ask Him about this, so He said to them, “Are you asking one another what I meant when I said, ‘In a little while you will see me no more, and then after a little while you will see me’? ²⁰Very truly I tell you, you will weep and mourn while the world rejoices. You will grieve, but your grief will turn to joy. ²¹A woman giving birth to a child has pain because her time has come; but when her baby is born she forgets the anguish because of her joy that a child is born into the world. ²²So with you: Now is your time of grief, but I will see you again and you will rejoice, and no one will take away your joy.

John 16:33 – Verse of the Day

I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.”

There is more that could have been included from these chapters, but I believe these excerpts will afford you the context of the prophetic words Jesus is sharing with His disciples … and with us as well. Jesus poured out His heart … His love and concern … knowing what the disciples would soon be facing. He wanted them (and us) to know that they can have peace in Him … even after He is no longer physically presence on earth. Jesus forewarns that we will have trouble in this world because of our faith and devotion to Him. But He adds, “Be of good cheer! I have overcome the world.” We can take heart in His victory and comfort in His provision of grace to us. It is our intimacy with Jesus that will ultimately manifest itself as peace.

And so, as we face the physical troubles and spiritual challenges of the new year ahead, I pray that we will remember what Jesus told us: “In Him we can experience peace.” No matter what the trial or hardship might be, Jesus will give the grace to endure it … the power to overcome it … and the assurance of peace while we are in it … if we will but wholly trust Him at His word. Indeed, to experience peace in this world of tribulation, believers must cling to every word spoken by our Lord Jesus Christ. For there is nothing Jesus said, shared, or taught that did not come from the Father. And I am reminded that Jesus said, “The Spirit gives life; the flesh counts for nothing. The words I have spoken to you—they are full of the Spirit and life.” (Cf. John 6:63)

My friends, let Jesus speak into your heart today! I am confident you will find the peace you need for the coming year and the inspiration to know Him with a greater passion! I will close with these final thoughts:

Hebrews 1:1-3 (NIV)

In the past God spoke to our ancestors through the prophets at many times and in various ways, but in these last days He has spoken to us by His Son, whom He appointed heir of all things, and through whom also He made the universe. The Son is the radiance of God’s glory and the exact representation of His being, sustaining all things by His powerful word. After He had provided purification for sins, He sat down at the right hand of the Majesty in heaven.

So Now You Know…

Have a Blessed Day!

Now may the Lord of peace Himself give you peace at all times and in every way. The Lord be with all of you. ~ 2 Thessalonians 3:16