A Wise King Who Did A Stupid Thing

Byadmin

When our heart becomes full of cultural priorities, and the allurements of the world distract us, God has given us an anchor – God’s Word that keeps us faithful. Our most critical priority every day is to love God and do what He says.  Outside of scripture, it’s easy to drift away into the accessible and enticing.   The wisest King of Israel, Solomon, demonstrates that staying true to God, more than intellect, depends on your heart for God and His written Word.

Solomon gives us a life lesson that helps understand our need to remain faithful to God and His commands.

SOLOMON LOVES GOD

King Solomon began his rule with honor and humility.  Early in his reign, Solomon went to worship at Gibeon with thousands of sacrifices that showed his love for the Lord.  That night God appeared and said, “Ask for whatever you want me to give you” (1 Kings 3: 5).   Solomon says he is “as a little child” who needs the wisdom and a discerning heart to lead the people.

GOD GIVES SOLOMON WISDOM

God, pleased with Solomon’s request, promises even more than he asked.

 I will do what you have asked. I will give you a wise and discerning heart, so that there will never have been anyone like you, nor will there ever be.13 Moreover, I will give you what you have not asked for—both wealth and honor—so that in your lifetime you will have no equal among kings. 14 And if you walk in obedience to me and keep my decrees and commands as David your father did, I will give you a long life” 1 Kings 3:12-14.

Solomon’s wisdom and breadth of understanding were as “measureless as the sand on the seashore” (1 Kings 4:32-34).  The people were awed. Israel’s ally, Hiram, King of Tyre declared that the Lord had given Israel a wise son to rule over the nation (1 Kings 5:7).  Solomon the wisest King, was known as a builder, horticulturist, zoologist, writer, musician, excelling administrator, and visionary leader.   Three of the five books of wisdom in the Bible were written by Solomon – Proverbs, Ecclesiastes, and Song of Solomon.

From all nations people came to listen to Solomon’s wisdom, sent by all the kings of the world, who had heard of his wisdom (1 Kings 4:34)

SOLOMON BUILDS THE TEMPLE

Solomon’s glorious, crowning achievement and fulfillment of his Father’s vision was the opulent Temple that housed God’s presence.  Following every detail of God’s instruction through David, the Temple was the most grandiose building in Jerusalem and the nation that housed the presence of God.

DEDICATION OF THE TEMPLE

After seven years the Temple is complete. King Solomon‘s beautiful dedicatory prayer is full of thanksgiving to God for faithfully keeping His promises to Israel. The King dedicates the people and intercedes for them fully knowing their propensity towards sin.  See 1 Kings 8:44-50. 

With great fanfare, thousands of sacrifices, and 120 priests blowing trumpets, along with skilled musicians ushered in God’s presence.   Fire came down from heaven and consumed the burnt offerings, and the glory of the Lord filled the temple. The people knelt down on the pavement with their faces to the ground and gave thanks. 

Following this dedication of the Temple, the Lord spoke again to Solomon, affirming continued good promises.  Solomon would never fail to have a successor to rule over Israel if he would keep God’s decrees, laws, and commandments.

But if you turn away and forsake the decrees and commands I have given you and go off to serve other gods and worship them, then I will uproot Israel from my land, which I have given them, and will reject this temple I have consecrated for my Name (2 Chronicles 7:19-20.)

SOLOMON DELIBERATELY DISOBEYS

The wisest King did a stupid thing.

Solomon did not obey the Lord but turned away from him. So the Lord was angry with Solomon and said to him, “Because you have deliberately broken your covenant with me and disobeyed my commands, I promise that I will take the kingdom away from you and give it to one of your officials.  1 Kings 11: 9-13

Solomon built a high place for the Moabite god, Chemosh, and the Ammonite god, Molech. These places of idol worship included the abhorrent practice of child sacrifice. 

You must not worship the Lord your God in their way,  because in worshiping their gods, they do all kinds of detestable things the Lord hates. They even burn their sons and daughters in the fire as sacrifices to their gods (Deuteronomy 12:31).

This wisest King no longer gave God priority.  He cast aside the source of his wisdom and disobeyed the commands through Moses.  He no longer sang the songs of his father, David (writer or many of the Psalms).  Though Solomon was King in Jerusalem for 40 years, his coldness towards God led to the downfall and eventual exile.

God has given us a guide, a light in the darkness, and a way to know abundant life complete with God’s blessings.  As we read, study, and apply the principles, we will know God’s leading and approval.  

Solomon gradually drifted from God.

  • He began spending more time with others than with God. 
  • He lost priority in pleasing God.  
  • He grew self-sufficient with wealth and fame.
  • He ignored God’s commands. 
  • He loved the wrong people and forgot to do what he penned, “Above all things, guard your heart, for everything you do flows from it.”  Proverbs 4:23. 

The wisest man on earth failed to remain wise in his heart towards God. 

THREE THINGS THAT KEEP US FOCUSED: 

Reading the Word daily, obeying what it says, and keeping a heart to please the Lord, will guard against drifting away from  God. 

Read the Word daily.  

  • Solomon forgot his father’s words; I have hidden your word in my heart that I might not sin against you. Psalm 119:11

Obey God. 

  • Solomon loved his wives more than he loved God.  He failed to remember the Source of his splendor as King. 
    • When you love God, you will obey God’s commandments (John 14:15 GW).

Please God.

  • Solomon’s passions,  fame, and fortune overwhelmed his desire to please God.

    • “and find out what pleases the Lord” Ephesians 5:10
    • Do not merely listen to the word, and so deceive yourselves. Do what it says s(James 1:22-25).

It’s easy to believe God loves us.  We show God how much we love Him as we read, obey, and please Him. God’s Word will keep us focused and our heart right!

Therefore, I urge you, brothers and sisters, in view of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God—this is your true and proper worship. 2 Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will. Romans 12: 1-3

Have you been in the Word today?  God-secrets are waiting for you!

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Why Did the Kingdom of Israel Split?

Byadmin

One of the things I love about God’s Word, the holy Scriptures, is the truth it teaches. Though years separate us from the stories of the people in its pages, human nature is the same whether in the time of Moses or in our current culture And God is the same, a gracious, loving God who wants to pour out abundant blessings on His people. Our part is to love Him, living by the agreements found in the Covenant, the sacred scriptures. When we do, God’s favor rests on our families, our land, and our government. When we don’t, evil rises.

You can read my recent article on Christianity.com here.

May God bless each of you today as we intercede for our nation and our families.

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Part 6 The Holiness of Suffering – a Divine Purpose

Byadmin

Is suffering worth it?

The sixth and final part of this holiness series from 1st and 2nd Peter gives insight into how to respond to suffering.  Heather Moeckl McGee is sharing her testimony of surviving cancer and how her faith deepened.   As much as we try to avoid pain,  Peter helps us grasp the connection to deeper faith. as we rejoice THROUGH suffering,  follow the example of Jesus IN suffering,   and gain the favor and blessing of God FROM suffering.  

In the previous posts (linked), 

(Part 1) CAN I BE HOLY?   Peter’s example and writings affirm God chooses and equips us to be holy. 

(Part 2)  GOD HAS CHOSEN YOU TO BE HOLY  God gifts us, not only with an eternal inheritance but with an earthly promise of everything we need to live a godly life!  

 (Part 3)  GOD’S WORD IS ESSENTIAL TO HOLINESS  Peter inspires us to “crave” God’s love letter to resist sin and reflect God’s image.   Jesus, the Word, is on each page.   

(Part 4) HOLINESS – A CALL TO LOVE  Loving God cultivates the make-over of our inner person, developing a holy character that pleases and honors God.

(Part 5)  SUBMISSION IN HOLINESS  We are to submit to one another, “for the Lord’s sake.”

And, Part 6, Peter outlines these steps when suffering –  rejoice through suffering, follow the example of Jesus in suffering, and obtain the blessing and favor of God from suffering. Jesus said we would have trouble in this world, but He has overcome the world (John 16:33).  Suffering is temporary and only while on earth.  In heaven, there will be no more suffering,  sorrow, or crying. 

In human thinking, ease is a far better way to enjoy life.  I don’t like the difficult things that come.   But, I’ve discovered ease doesn’t grow spiritual maturity as much as suffering. Trials and pain squeeze out sin as it embraces authentic faith.

HEATHER MOECKL’S TESTIMONY

Heather Moeckl McGee has had a couple of years of enormous suffering and sorrow but shares with us her testimony of God’s faithfulness. 

I met Heather while traveling to Israel on a Chorale tour.  I, the choir accompanist for the North Central Chorale, and Heather, a singer in the Chorale, spent significant time together, even in the hospital when she was sick from food poisoning. Today Heather lives in Texas and is a breast cancer survivor.  May her story encourage you in your faith and through your suffering.  Only a portion of her testimony is in this post but the end of the document links to the full read.

The tears were unstoppable. December 5th of 2018, I received the diagnosis I had aggressive breast cancer!  I just had my fortieth birthday. How could I tell the kids? I was terrified and couldn’t communicate any hope to them. Every time I verbalized the statement “I have breast cancer,” I broke down in tears. 

Fear had taken hold of me. My greatest fear was for my kids, ages six and nine, to watch me die…slowly. I had to have six rounds of chemo, spaced out only three weeks apart.  I started begging to stop my treatment by my 4th round.  Each round I became increasingly ill and unable to tolerate the pain. My husband was my greatest cheerleader. He told me to hang in for the sake of our kids.  I’d love to tell you that I was a spiritual hero at that time, but I wasn’t. I had been reduced to a skeleton and was sick all the time!

Fear was still controlling me. I felt like I was going to die, and God wasn’t going to save me.  My greatest fear was leaving my kids. Then, at one of my lowest times, God spoke to me.  He said, “Do you trust Me?  I answered, “Yes, of course, I trust You!”  But He asked me again. Then He asked, “Don’t you think I am enough for your kids?”  “Don’t you think I will be able to heal their hearts, and don’t you think I love them more than you do?” 

Wow!  Who was I to think that God was not capable of taking care of my children and even better than I could?  The grip of fear had been so strong on me.  I cried out to Jesus to forgive me for my unbelief and to cast off fear.  I surrendered to God’s will, whatever that may be.  I truly got to the place I could say that it was okay if I was never healed of this cancer because I wanted God to be glorified in my life. 

It is a hard place for a mother to go, to have to face the reality of death, and to surrender her children. I had symbolically dedicated my children to the Lord as babies, but I had to walk that out now. It was so humbling and, at the same time, truly beautiful.  God was so close to me; I could feel His presence.  He had never left me; He was there the whole time, cradling me in His arms. The peace He gave me is indescribable.  He conquered my greatest fear. I was set free.   (Heather’s full is linked below). 

Suffering comes to each of us, whether cancer, broken marriages, loss of a loved one, financial pressures, persecution for your faith, or any number of things life brings our way.  We cannot separate suffering from faith.   Peter writes to rejoice through suffering because the outcome is holiness.

REJOICE THROUGH SUFFERING (I’m still working on this one)

According to Peter,  there is a divine purpose in suffering – deepening genuine, unshakeable faith.

In all this you greatly rejoice, though now for a little while you may have had to suffer grief in all kinds of trials. These have come so that the proven genuineness of your faith—of greater worth than gold, which perishes even though refined by fire—may result in praise, glory and honor when Jesus Christ is revealed (1 Peter 1:6,7).

Dear friends, do not be surprised at the fiery ordeal that has come on you to test you, as though something strange were happening to you. But rejoice in as much as you participate in the sufferings of Christ, so that you may be overjoyed when his glory is revealed (1 Peter 4:13).

Knowing there is a purpose in suffering helps me trust “our faithful Creator” to work out all things for our good.  As I put my life in perspective with heaven and realize God is working to bring about healthier, genuine faith, then it’s easier to submit to the Lord and rejoice through the suffering. 

The best example we have for modeling a life of holiness is that of Jesus.  He is the focal point in how we should face suffering and trials. 

JESUS IS OUR EXAMPLE 

Have the same attitude.  Though beaten, abused, and killed, Jesus gave his life willingly. His submission to suffering served a divine purpose as it overpowered sin and death forever.  And He is there to help us.  “We do not have a high priest who is unable to sympathize with our weaknesses, but one who has similarly been tested in every way, yet without sin” (Hebrews 4:15).

Christ suffered for you, leaving you an example, that you should follow in his steps (1 Peter 1:21).

For Christ also suffered once for sins, the righteous for the unrighteous, to bring you to God. He was put to death in the body but made alive in the Spirit (1 Peter 3:18).

Therefore, since Christ suffered in his body, arm yourselves also with the same attitude, because whoever suffers in the body is done with sin (1 Peter 4:1).

When I go through troubles, I seek God more earnestly.  Suffering gets my attention, and I examine myself, repent of sin, and turn more fully to God, no longer living earthly lives for evil human desires, but rather for the will of God (1 Peter 4:2).

As David said, See if there be any offensive way in me and lead me, in the way everlasting (Psalm 139:24).     

Suffering puts our eyes on Jesus and our hearts on heaven.  Sin’s attraction isn’t so bright or tempting. Through the storms of life, faith anchors to the Rock of our salvation.  Character develops, and we gain God’s blessings.  

SUFFERING TURNS US TO GOD AND HIS BLESSINGS 

Suffering for Doing Good   

Peter tells his readers to be like-minded, sympathetic, love one another, be compassionate and humble. 

Do not repay evil with evil or insult with insult. On the contrary, repay evil with blessings, because to this you were called so that you may inherit a blessing (1 Peter 3:8-9).

We are to keep our tongues from speaking evil and deceit. Do good, seek, and pursue peace.  Then, the eyes of the Lord are on the righteous, and his ears are attentive to their prayers. 

Peter continues, when non-believers speak maliciously against your good behavior, in your hearts “revere Christ as Lord” and share the gospel, with gentleness and respect.  Peter says, don’t be afraid of the bullies, “Do not fear their threats; do not be frightened.” Look for the opportunity to share your faith in Jesus. 

But in your hearts revere Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect,  keeping a clear conscience, so that those who speak maliciously against your good behavior in Christ may be ashamed of their slander.  For it is better, if it is God’s will, to suffer for doing good than for doing evil 1 Peter 3:15-17)

Jesus told the disciples to turn the other cheek, love your enemies, do good to those who persecute you.  Don’t respond to evil with evil, but with gentleness and kindness, so your faith is evident. God’s blessings follow.   

But even if you should suffer for what is right, you are blessed (1 Peter 3:14)

 If you are insulted because of the name of Christ, you are blessed  (1 Peter 4:14)

However, if you suffer as a Christian, do not be ashamed, but praise God that you bear that name 1 Peter 4:15,16)

CONCLUSION

Is suffering worth it?  Hard things make faith and character stronger!   Heather developed a greater trust in God, not only for herself but for her family.  Though it’s hard, in light of eternity, suffering produces genuine unshakable faith.   Most importantly,  I am getting stronger inwardly.  As my wise son, Tom, once told me, “We haven’t suffered like Jesus since we haven’t sweat great drops of blood yet.” 

Rejoicing through suffering, becoming more like Jesus in suffering,  and gaining God’s favor and blessings from suffering is holiness at work.   

The hymn writer, Ira Stanphill, wrote it this way,  “It will be worth it all when we see Jesus, one glimpse of His dear face all sorrow will erase; so gladly run the race till we see Christ.”

The promise of God’s exalting you and caring for you through suffering is sure. We can be diligent in the battle to live for God.  Resist the devil.  He will flee.  Don’t give up when it’s hard. 

And the God of all grace, who called you to his eternal glory in Christ, after you have suffered a little while, will himself restore you and make you strong, firm and steadfast (1 Peter 5:10).

Our suffering on earth will produce a pain-free eternity; whereas for the unbelievers, their suffering will have only begun.  God is calling us to holiness and is ready to help us! 

I hope you will take the time to read through Peter and let it encourage you in your journey of holiness. 

1 Peter 1:6-7 In all this you greatly rejoice, though now for a little while you may have had to suffer grief in all kinds of trials.  These have come so that the proven genuineness of your faith—of greater worth than gold, which perishes even though refined by fire—may result in praise, glory and honor when Jesus Christ is revealed.

Read Heather’s full testimony here.

 

 

LEARNING GOD SECRETS!

Byadmin

Secrets are meant to be discovered. These secrets out of God’s Word will inspire, challenge, and encourage your walk with God, taking you to a deeper level and stronger relationship.

 The secret things belong to the Lord our God, but the things revealed belong to us and to our children forever, that we may follow all the words of this law. Deuteronomy 29:29

What secrets will you find along the way?

 

The God secrets have walked me through the darkest and brightest of days.  I’m still discovering that the greater the connection to God (who knows me — fears, needs, activities, issues, thoughts) the greater the revelation of God-secrets. As a pastor, it’s very apparent to see the faith and trust of those who are actively in God’s word. I realize that the busyness of life often makes it difficult to be regular with Bible reading. Yet for those who make that commitment, there is great reward!

Will you join me in discovering more of God’s secrets?

I will give you hidden treasures, riches stored in secret places,
so that you may know that I am the Lord,
    the God of Israel, who summons you by name.  Isaiah 45:3  NIV

God wants us to know how much He loves us and wants to share those “hidden treasures” with us!

SECRET ANSWERS

God’s word contains “secrets” to a happy marriage, parenting, work, home life, purpose, relationships, and more.   Reading and applying the scriptures becomes a daily life-impacting discovery of God’s direct words to us!

PURPOSE  OF THE BLOG

It’s my aim to encourage you to become a student of the Word. There are answers to every situation of life and relationships. It’s amazing how God speaks. No matter how many times you read a passage, there is something new and fresh. That’s the amazing work of God’s word – alive and active. The more we understand God’s secrets, the deeper our relationship with God will become.

With each post my aim is to:

  • Encourage a deeper trust/faith
  • Grow deeper wisdom
  • Gain clear direction
  • Unlock answers to prayers
  • Love God more passionately
  • Perceive God’s nature and character
  • Become a student of God’s secrets

If you already are a student of the Word you know how valuable this time has become. If you are not so regular, this is a great time to go for a daily schedule. I hope something on these posts will help to encourage you. If you rarely read your Bible, I hope you’ll take the challenge. Try it for 30 days and I’m confident you ‘ll be hooked! This will be the best and most important part of your day! Make it a habit. You choose the best time for you and stick with it!

For helps with a reading plan check out the Bible Reading Plans and Tools page There are several options listed.

This will be the journey of life!

THREE SECRETS THAT BUILD MENTAL MUSCLE AND OVERCOME NEGATIVE THOUGHTS

Byadmin

 “Watch your thoughts for they become words. Watch your words for they become actions. Watch your actions for they become habits. Watch your habits, for they become your character. And watch your character, for it becomes your destiny! What we think we become.” 

————–Margaret Thatcher, first female British Prime Minister.

My mind becomes a fast track of speeding thoughts – good, sad, tempting, depressing, joyful, fearful, and a multitude of more. Negative thoughts multiply like rabbits.  More mental muscle is needed to conquer the negatives that impact my attitudes.  But I am learning as I do these three actions – 1) renew my mind, 2) take my thoughts captive, and 3) yield to the Holy Spirit.   

We can overcome the dark thoughts that fast track through our brains.  

 

RENEW YOUR MIND

In the original language of the New Testament, the Greek word for renew is ἀνακαινόω (anakainoó) “to make new.”  Change the way I think by moving my thoughts to a higher and more developed understanding.   God’s ever-transforming work in me will help me conquer those negative thoughts and transform them into better views.   

Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.  Romans 12:2 NIV

To renew my mind is to transform it (like an automobile that is transformed into a boat) – a BIG transformation.   I have to will/choose to let go of that negative thought and replace it with a positive one.  

Romans 12 assures us that we can change our thinking.  We can make them new.

Find a scripture that speaks to your specific need.  Post it on your refrigerator, or the bathroom mirror.  Write it down.  Memorize it.  Read it out loud.  Transform negative thoughts through the power of God’s Word.    Feed your positive thoughts; starve your negative thoughts.

The Report from John Hopkins Medicine, “The Power of Positive Thinking,” says positive people were less likely to have a coronary event than their negative counterparts.  Positive people are more successful, happier, live longer, and have less stress and anger.   It’s a choice of the mind. As a Christian, we have a higher power available to renew our mind through God’s Word.

 

TAKE YOUR THOUGHTS CAPTIVE

 The weapons we fight with are not the weapons of the world. On the contrary, they have divine power to demolish strongholds. 5 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.  2 Corinthians 10:4-6

Taking captive every thought is to “imprison” or “confine them – negative thoughts, arguments or fantasies, imaginations.   Someone imprisoned is no longer able to walk about but sequestered away, no longer free.  When we imprison (take captive) those thoughts they are no longer free to roam around in the brain. 

This takes practice!

 

In a music class at Mankato State, I was learning a drum beat pattern that was really tricky and extremely complicated.  I didn’t know if I could get it.  I did know that if I was going to conquer it, I had to get it in my brain, so it kicks into autopilot (knowing it so well it just happens). I remember practicing on the carpet with my drum sticks – no drum at my house.  After several days of practice, frustration, and what seemed impossible, I nearly gave up.  But then, somehow the practice kicked in, and I did it.  Once I did it, I could do it again, and again.  What a breakthrough! 

It took lots of practice to get that drum rhythm.  It takes practice to take captive negative thoughts and rethink those thoughts, and replace them with positive ones.  But it can be done! 

 

In the Waste Management Golf Tour in PHX AZ, 5 Ft 9 in, 150 pounds pro, Rickie Fowler, was leading until one of the unluckiest breaks of all time happened.  On the 11th hole, he hit his ball into the water. Then after he had placed it back into play, he received another penalty shot after his ball rolled back into the water.   Fowler’s reputation as someone who can’t close a tournament seemed to be consistent.  The announcer said Fowler needed a colossal mountain of positive mental thoughts to turn this around and win.  Apparently, he took those negative thoughts captive and exhibited steel mental muscle that won the tournament. 

Getting a hold on your thoughts can be the difference between winning or losing the mind war.  When I fortify my mind through the Scriptures and take captive negative thoughts, I will lead my emotions and feelings in ways that honor God and bring peace.    

YIELD TO THE HOLY SPIRIT

“But the mind ruled by the Spirit brings life and peace” Romans 8:6 NIRV

It’s easy to dwell on an insult and keep thinking about it until it consumes my thinking.  These thoughts are pretty human, normal, but pretty negative.  These negative reruns can be overcome with the Spirit’s help and with my determination of renewing and taking captive those thoughts.  I yield my thinking to the Holy Spirit who is able to help and strengthen me.

Paul said it in Philippians 4:13, “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.”  

  • I can choose to replace anger as I remember God’s love for me.
  • I can choose to let go of fear as I remember that Jesus is bigger than anything I’m facing today. “God hasn’t given us a spirit of fear but of power, love and a sound mind” (2 Timothy 1:7).   
  • I can choose to trust God as I yield to the Holy Spirit. He will work all things together for my good (Romans 8:28).

God is not surprised by what is happening.  God knows every detail.  God has my best interest in mind.  We yield to the Holy Spirit as we choose to let our mind be filled with Scripture, worship songs, words of praise, prayer.  We ask for God’s help as we replace negative thoughts with positive ones.    

 “Fill your mind with things that are of good report, lovely, noble, right, true, and think about such things” (Philippians 4:8).   

When we yield the guilt, insecurity, hurt, and feeling inadequate, the Holy Spirit surrounds with comfort, peace, and assurance.  The Holy Spirit is our comforter, power, confidence, inner strength, sanctifier, and help. 

Romans 8:5 says, “Those who live according to the flesh have their minds set on what the flesh desires; but those who live in accordance with the Spirit have their minds set on what the Spirit desires. 

The Holy Spirit also grows the fruit of the Spirit in us– love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control (Galatians 5:22).  I can be confident that God is working out for my good and transforming my character into a God-honoring one.  The fruits will grow and help me become stronger in having the “mind of Christ.”  That’s a mind that honors God.

In summary, look for the positive. It takes practice.  Smile more.  Take a breath.  Forgive. Memorize a Scripture. Keep working to be positive.   It takes work.  It takes time.  It takes repetition.  

I am assured God is working to build mental muscle in these three ways:

  • Renew my mind and change my thinking.
  • Take captive negative thoughts of fear, imaginations, stress, and anger, jealousy, or hurt. Imprison them so they can’t be running free. 
  • Yield to the Holy Spirit’s control.

I’m learning.  I’m still practicing building stronger mental muscle.  The more I do, the more I sense the peace of God.

 I set my mind on the Holy Spirit and my way of thinking changes.   Human reasoning is warped by sin – the mind of the flesh.  But as I yield, seek, and desire the things of God in my mind, I can be dominated by the Spirit, and the result is peace.  It’s an act of my will as I  yield to the Holy Spirit.

“But the mind ruled by the Spirit brings life and peace” Romans 8:6 NIRV

HOW ABOUT YOU? 

What are some of your secrets to conquering negative thoughts?  You can share in the comments.

 

 

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DO YOU EXCUSE DISOBEDIENCE? King Saul Part 1

Byadmin

My granddaughter, who is four years old, is an expert in making excuses. When I asked if she was keeping her room clean, she said her playmate had been over and messed it up!  Children aren’t the only ones who make up excuses!  We all do it, but should we?  Excuses, in the story of Saul only disguised his disobedient heart towards God.  As old as the story of Adam and Eve, when God said don’t, they still did, each blaming the other. Their disobedience resulted in being driven away from God’s presence (Genesis 3).  

Excuses make me look better than I am, or cover up my sin and avoid the consequences of my actions. At times, it’s easier to blame someone else for my lack of responsibility. “It’s his fault I’m like I am.” The story of Saul helps us see the problem of making excuses, a cover for self-pride. The opposite of making excuses is obeying God. As we grow in knowing God’s Word and doing what He says, we can overcome our prideful excuses. Self-driven pride is something God hates. But, God loves the obedient.

Whoever loves me will keep my word…Jesus

John 14:23

Let’s look at Saul’s story.  I believe you’ll see yourself – as I did.  

Photo by Mark Duffel Unsplash

CHOSEN BY GOD

Saul had a golden opportunity to become one of the most outstanding leaders of all time.  He could have become known for his servant-heart before God and led the nation back to God.  Instead, he excused his disobedience and dishonored God. 

SAUL ANOINTED KING  

Then Samuel took a bottle of olive oil. He poured it on Saul’s head and kissed him. He said, “The Lord has anointed you to be the King of his people. 1 Samuel 10:1

Tall and impressive, a young man without equal, God chose Saul to lead Israel.  Samuel, a lifetime Prophet, Judge, and acting priest of Israel, anointed Saul as King.  Saul humbly responded.

“But am I not a Benjamite, from the smallest tribe of Israel, and is not my clan the least of all the clans of the tribe of Benjamin?  Why do you say such a thing?”  

On inauguration day, Saul hid in the baggage. (1 Sam 9:21).   God anointed this humble man to lead Israel out of the tyrannical oppression of the Philistines.  God equipped him.

Saul was appointed, anointed, and twice confirmed as King at Mizpeh and Gilgal.  But in the second year of his reign, Saul’s humility gave way to pride and disobedience.

Photo by Goh Rhy Van Unsplash

SAMUEL’S WARNING TO THE NATION AND THE KING

Israel’s leader, Samuel, openly rebuked the people for rejecting God by asking for a king.  

 And the Lord told him: “Listen to all that the people are saying to you; it is not you they have rejected, but they have rejected me as their king.  As they have done from the day I brought them up out of Egypt until this day, forsaking me and serving other gods, so they are doing to you.  Now listen to them; but warn them solemnly” 1 Samuel 8:7-9.

Samuel warns the people if they continue to turn away from God, both the people and the new King will perish (1 Sam 12:24-25).  Saul was to lead the nation to obey God.

SAMUEL’S INSTRUCTIONS TO SAUL

Moving from a humble, hiding-in-the-baggage youth, now a King with 3000 soldiers at his command, his mission was to defeat the godless Philistines.  Samuel gave Saul the order to go to Gilgal and wait for Samuel to come on the seventh day and make the sacrifices with final instructions from God (1 Samuel 10:8).

Photo by Adam Birkett Unsplash

SAMUEL REBUKES SAUL

The oppressive Philistines had assembled for attack.  They were as numerous as the sands on the seashore.  Saul was becoming more fearful by the minute as his soldiers were fleeing. Anxiously waiting for Samuel to arrive, Saul decided to sacrifice without him (1 Sam 13:9).  Bad idea!

Before he finished, Samuel arrived and said, “What have you done?” Saul excused his disobedience.  

“When I saw that the men were scattering, and that you did not come at the set time, and that the Philistines were assembling at Michmash, I thought, ‘Now the Philistines will come down against me at Gilgal, and I have not sought the Lord’s favor.’ So I felt compelled to offer the burnt offering” (1 Sam 13:1-12). 

This story may seem relatively insignificant, and we may, at first glance, “excuse” Saul for his disobedience to God.   Why the big deal over Saul offering the sacrifices and not waiting for Samuel?  With an army breathing down his neck, soldiers fleeing (now down to about 600 from 3000), should he not have acted?  Saul was the King and had to make decisions as a leader, right?  Not! Obedience is of first importance with God.

Samuel rebuked Saul. “You have done a foolish thing…now your kingdom will not endure; the Lord has sought out a man after his own heart and appointed him ruler of his people because you have not kept the Lord’s command.” 1 Samuel 13:13-14

WE ALL MAKE EXCUSES

It’s human nature to make excuses.  We all do at times, but do we fail to see pride as the reason?

“It’s my friend’s fault my room is messy.” (Who’s responsibility is it to keep it clean?)

” I don’t have time to read the Bible today because I’m too busy.”  (What does this tell God about how much we love Him and want to be with Him?)

” I want my way, and until I get it, I’ll give you the silent treatment.” (Is this putting others first, as Jesus taught).

Saul’s excuses included people’s approval, fear, feeling entitled, being ungrateful, and strife.

  • Saul’s disobedience was in response to look like a King and uphold his people’s approval, more important than God’s.  Paul writes in Galatians 1:10 when we “try to please people more than God, and then I am not a servant of God”.
  • Saul was afraid when the troops were leaving.  Rather than waiting on Samuel and the Lord, fear took hold and he trusted his own judgment more than what God said. 
  • Saul wasn’t a priest, and without authority, offered the sacrifices.  He felt entitled, thinking he deserved to do this because of who he was.  He forgot humility and obedience.
  • Saul’s humility turned into ungratefulness.  Saul erected a monument in honor of himself on the heels of his disobedience to God.  
  • Saul’s strife against God’s pick for the next King of Israel turned into hatred and rage.  He tried to murder David.  Where there is strife, there is pride.  Proverbs 13:10a

Pride and excuses caused Saul to lose the kingdom and his life.  

Pride goes before destruction, and a haughty spirit before stumbling.

Proverbs 16:18

Conquering excuses takes responsibility.  Time in God’s Word can bring change as we not only listen to God through His Word but do what He says.  James 1:22 tells us, “Do not merely listen to the Word, and so deceive yourselves. Do what it says.

DO WHAT IT SAYS! Are we making excuses instead of obeying God’s commandments?

  1. God says, be honest (9th command).  Are we truthful?  What about little white lies?
  2. Don’t curse using God’s name (3rd command).  How about the casual, without even noticing the expression of OMG?  Are we giving careful thought to not taking God’s Name in vain, even in casual conversation? 
  3. Go to church and honor the Sabbath (4th command).  Are we faithful to worship with the body of believers in our communities?  Are we making sure our children are learning the Bible stories and lessons taught each Sunday? Are we honoring God by this command, “Don’t forsake the assembling of yourselves together” (Hebrews 10:25).
  4. Don’t covet what your neighbor has (10th command).  This is a hard one for Americans.  More than most of the world, we are all quite wealthy but still don’t have enough.  Are we spending beyond our means to enjoy the things of life like our neighbor?  Are we honoring God with our tithe first, showing our love and trust in Him?
  5. Don’t have idols above God (1st command).  What demands most of our time and money reveals where our heart is.  Is God first in everything?

To overcome pride, we must say “yes” to obey the Lord, not only those five commands above but all of them.  We have the help of the Word and the Holy Spirit.  We can say “no” to excuses and disobedience (Titus 2:11-14).   

In the critical, testing times, unlike Saul, we can quit making excuses, stop blaming others, and obey God.   Obedience is the measure of our love for God!.

Jesus said, Whoever loves me will keep my word, and my Father will love him, and we will come to him and make our dwelling with him.

John 14:23

Saul is given another opportunity to take responsibility for his actions and obey God, but does he do it?

Go to Part 2, Do You Excuse Disobedience?

I Was the Special Guest on Larry Lundstrom Ministries

Byadmin

My visit with Lundstroms was a delight! Larry and Gloria Lundstrom’s vision is summed up in one word—EVANGELISM!  As their driving force for over 50 years, they have preached the simple, transforming salvation message of Jesus Christ. It was a joy to spend time with them, catch up, and connect.

Here is the introductory promo from Marne, the Administrative Director for Larry Lundstrom Ministries:

We have a treat, delight, and guaranteed uplifting time on this week’s COFFEE & CONNECT LIVE (Wednesday @ 11 AM) as we host special guest, Judy McEachran.

Judy, an ordained minister of the gospel, pastor, preacher, gifted musician, and writer, is passionate about God’s word and invites each reader to join her on this journey of cultivating a God-honoring character. She pastored churches in the Midwest and with retirement, moved to Arizona.

She is humbled not only by the gracious love of God but by her devoted husband, also a minister of the gospel, and growing family of sons, daughters-in-law, and grandchildren.

You can visit her website at God Secrets that Impart Life which features her various giftings whether through different writings or also links to her music which is peaceful and full of scripture. She also writes for the online magazine https://www.christianity.com/author/judy-mceachran/.

We know you will be blessed by what she has to share with us!

What a great time it was! Gloria is a sister to our dear friends, Wes and Diane Brooks. The Lundstroms, Lowell and Connie, and Larry and Gloria, traveled the country doing evangelistic meetings as their life ministry. Altars were flooded with people coming to Jesus.

One of my earliest recollections of Lundstroms was at a Teens for Christ meeting I attended while in high school. The Lundstroms, Message For America, presented Jesus, through music ministry and preaching. At the altar call, I saw my friend across the room and walked over, and asked if she wanted to go forward to pray. She said, “yes.” We became close friends after that experience.

This first photo is from their earlier days. Left to Right: Connie, Lowell, Gloria, Larry

Although Lowell and Connie are with Jesus, Larry and Gloria continue to reach the multitudes. One of those recent avenues is through their Coffee and Connect Live each Wednesday at Larry Lundstrom Ministries.

quotes from Judy on Coffee and Connect

Larry and Gloria asked me to share the importance of God’s Word and worship.

“The more we can see Him….the more we are able to worship.”

“Read—listen—hear God speak!”

“God is alive through these pages.”

The more we know, see, comprehend, and grow in the knowledge of God through the pages of Scripture, the more we can truly worship Him, “in spirit and in truth.”

God is spirit, and his worshipers must worship in the Spirit and in truth.”John 4:24.

My spirit, the very core of my being, is in awe of the Divine One who gave His all for our salvation and eternal life.

Worshipping in truth is where the Scripture is vital in comprehending who Jesus is. We learn more about Jesus through the Word of God, The Word of God describes both Jesus and our Bible that testify of Jesus (John 5:39).

In addition to the truth of who Jesus is, worshiping in spirit and truth calls me to live in obedience to God’s Word. Thinking I can worship by living in the gray, outside the commands of Jesus, taints authentic worship times. Worshipping in truth speaks of worship through obedience to God’s Word and in the humility of God’s grace. More than a certain style or genre of music, it’s a matter of the heart fully surrendering to our Savior and Lord.

The full presentation on COFFEE and CONNECT is here. You can join their ongoing weekly ministry at http://www.larrylundstromministries.org/

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