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In A World of Lies, Where is the Truth?

Byadmin

It’s hard to find the truth from news sources, politicians, scientists, and woke pastors and teachers.  What is the criteria for truth?  Jesus said it was the Word of God.   Truth cannot be reduced by the lies of a godless culture, the opinions of powerful people, or even the lies of the Deceiver.  God’s truth is above all other truths and is divinely written in the Scripture.  By reading the Bible, reading it first, and applying what we read to our attitudes, choices, and behaviors, we can walk in the truth. 

Truth oozes from God’s holy nature.  Jesus declares Himself the Truth (John 14:6). Jesus prayed, “Sanctify them through your truth; your word is truth” (John 17:17).  The more we know the Scripture, the more truth we will gain.

Jude gives a warning to believers to contend for the faith (Jude 1:3-4). Contend (give your all, confront, grapple, push for, lock horns) for the faith, the genuine faith, which is truth.  

SWITCH ON YOUR BRAIN

I just completed a fantastic book, Switch on Your Brain, by Dr. Caroline Leaf. “You are not a victim of your biology!  Our culture is undergoing an epidemic of toxic thoughts that, left unchecked, create ideal conditions for illnesses.” Dr. Leaf confirms the need to “switch” on your brain (renew your mind, Romans 12:1-2), and as you do, you will enable a happier, healthier, more enjoyable life by knowing the truth. 

Since 1985 she has worked in cognitive neuroscience, and her research has been in linking scientific principles to the truth of Scripture.  She proclaims, “Each morning when you wake up, you have new baby nerve cells born inside your brain to use wisely as you remove bad thoughts and wire in new ones (Lam 3:23).  This is called neurogenesis.  You have been designed for deep intellectual thought (Psalm 139:14).  You were wired for love, and fear is a learned and not a natural response (2 Timothy 1:7).  You have the mind of Christ (1 Corinthians 2:16).  You are made in God’s image (Genesis 1:27).”

Here’s a few of Dr. Leaf’s practical side of Scriptural truths:

  • You can be happy and filled with peace regardless of your circumstances.
  • You can overcome and control depression and anxiety—some scientists show you can even control and overcome schizophrenia and OCD.
  • Forgiveness is not the battle you think it is.
  • You can get the chaos in your mind under control.
  • You don’t have to walk around in guilt and condemnation.
  •  If you wired those toxic thoughts in, you can wire them out.
  • You don’t have to fear that if a condition runs in your family, you will get it (for example, Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, or depression).
  • You can balance your over-thinking and over-analyzing mind.
  • You don’t have to keep digging into the past to get free from it.

Dr. Leaf concludes that the path to wholeness is found in the Scripture.  You can be an overcomer! That is the truth! 

TRUTH DEFENDS AGAINST THE LIES OF THE CULTURE. We are made in God’s image, and we can have the mind of Christ.  Where do we acquire that mind? Through reading, meditation, studying, and abiding in the Word of God, we think, learn, and find purpose.

  • John the beloved Apostle writes in 1 John 4:6, We are from God, and whoever knows God listens to us; but whoever is not from God does not listen to us. This is how we recognize the Spirit of truth and the spirit of falsehood.
  • The Apostle Paul urges the believer to put on the truth of Scripture like armor.  Stand firm then, with the belt of truth buckled around your waist (Ephesians 6:14).  Without truth, listed by Paul as the first piece of armor around our core, we have doubts, fears, uncertainty and are easily deceived.  The reality we learn in God’s Word will defend us against the culture’s lies and the lies of the enemy of our souls.
Photo by MD Duran Unsplash

START reading in one of the Gospels (Matthew, Mark, Luke, John), or a Psalm, or an Epistles one of Paul’s shorter letters such as Colossians, Ephesians, or Galatians with only 4 – 6 chapters). 

Psalm 119, The longest chapter in the center of the Bible, defines the power and life of God’s written eternal revelation of His Word. Don’t you think that is significant – at the center of the Bible, the longest chapter with 176 verses?! When God’s Word is the center of our lives, we will prioritize reading as it tells us what is right and what is wrong and keeps us from sin (Psalm 119:11).

In the New Testament, the book of Titus (a letter of Paul to a young pastor) says God, through the Word,  “teaches us to say “No” to ungodliness and worldly passions, and to live self-controlled, upright, and godly lives in this present age (Titus 2:12). 

With Scripture hidden in our hearts, the very core/depth/foundation of our being, it teaches, corrects, exhorts, and instructs in righteousness (2 Timothy 3:16,17).  But we have to grab it, take hold of it, and desperately desire it to acquire the truth.  We can know the truth (and Jesus, who is the Truth).  If you haven’t read my previous post, CAN YOU LOVE JESUS WITHOUT LOVING THE BIBLE? You can do it here.

TRUTH IS KNOWABLE “You will know the truth (John 8:32). Truth is truth, whether you believe it or not. God’s truth triumphs my truth or anyone’s truth. The Author of all truth gives us the secrets to knowing and walking in truth (Psalm 86:11).

 

Photo by Priscilla Du Preez Unsplash

1. READ THE WORD DAILY

Read it, read it, read it, and reread it until you get it. Read it until it gets into your heart and changes you.  Each day the Holy Spirit will bring you a new revelation of truth, an answer, a direction, a conviction. The Divine Author’s divine words speak. “Take hold of my words with all your heart; keep my commands, and you will live” Proverbs 4:4. That’s the truth!

REPETITION BRINGS CLARITY. The more we spend in the Word, the more we will understand God’s Word’s beauty, instruction, and intrigue.   Like a puzzle at times, repetition and consistency will reveal the missing pieces.  So keep reading.  

There are multitude promises of blessing for the person who’s pleasure and passion is remaining true to the Word of “I Am,” meditating day and night in the true revelation of light. (Psalm 1:TPT). 

Confusion and ignorance of Christians are often the results of not knowing the Scripture.  According to the  American Bible Society, only 9% of respondents read their Bible daily.  Is it any wonder Christians are not sure what is the truth?  

READING LEADS TO FRUITFUL LIVING.  When we measure life against the Scripture, we find the truth that God will be our guide.  God’s promise to Joshua is a promise to each reader. Never stop reading this Book of the Law. Day and night you must think about what it says. Make sure you do everything written in it. Then things will go well with you. And you will have great success (Joshua 1:8).

We won’t have one foot in the world if we have daily time in the Bible. John the Apostle, who walked with Jesus, learned the difference between loving the world’s things or loving God.  “Do not love the world or anything in the world. If anyone loves the world, love for the Father is not in them” 1 John 2:15.  Believing the lies of the Enemy of our soul play along with cultural approval of moral issues and dissipate God’s favor.   

 Do not merely listen to the word, and so deceive yourselves. Do what it says. James 1:22

2. LET THE BIBLE BE YOUR DEVOTIONAL – READ THE BIBLE FIRST

Instead of a page out of a devotional written by someone else, read right out of your Bible. Let God’s Spirit connect with your spirit. 

READ THE BIBLE FIRST!  Devotionals are helpful but often only an appetizer.  Get to the entrée.  Explore the Scripture for yourself, first!  You will hear the Holy Spirit speak to you directly rather than through another person’s version of what God is saying. You’re an adult with a sound, capable mind. You can think through and hear what the Spirit is saying to you, personally.  Scripture is alive (Heb 4:12).  It speaks! Read the Bible first, then add the devotionals and commentaries.

READ AT LEAST TEN CHAPTERS A DAY.  Better yet, read an entire book of the Bible in one day.  Let it fill your mind and heart. Attitudes and behaviors will change.

What you are thinking every moment of every day becomes a physical reality in your brain and body, which affects our optimal mental and physical health.  These thoughts collectively form your attitude…and it’s your attitude and not your DNA that determines much of the quality of your life (Switch on Your Brain, p 13). 

Your thinking affects our spirit, soul, and body and the people around us.  Scripture can train our thoughts to be pleasing to God and wholesome to others.   We cannot control circumstances, but we can control how we respond.  Dr. Leaf puts it this way: “Good thinking = good choices = healthy thoughts; toxic thinking = toxic choices = toxic thoughts” (Deut 30:19).  

Reading a book of the Bible a day reveals a hungry seeker after God.   Human nature is exposed. Applying principles from the Author of Truth teaches ethics, relationships, self-control, decision making, character development, persevering faith, and much more. It’s the cherished textbook for life and eternity. 

Photo by Hasin Hayder Unsplash

DIVE  into the Old Testament.  The New Testament refers to or quotes 250 Old Testament quotations and 1000 references by Jesus, Paul, John, James, Matthew, Luke, Mark, and Peter.  Jesus proclaimed he fulfilled the Old Testament Law and the Prophets (Matthew 5:17-22).

READ COVER TO COVER  The first time I read from cover to cover, and I was amazed by the balance of God’s justice (Old Testament) and love (new Testament).   In religious circles, love is often emphasized to the exclusion of justice.  Those who say they love the Lord but ignore His commands do not read Scripture from cover to cover.   If they did, they would realize there is no real justice without agape love.  Just think of the cross, justice paid for the penalty of sin by the divine love of a perfect sacrifice, Jesus. 

Reading each day will build a firm foundation in God, His truth, and in how to live life to the fullest! 

Find Bible reading plans on the menu of my blog here .

3. BECOME A STUDENT OF SCRIPTURE

Study to show yourself approved to God, a worker who does not need to be ashamed and correctly handles the word of truth (2 Timothy 3:15,16).

I seek to honor God and know His approval. I gain confidence through time in the Word. Obedience becomes a joy and not a burden.

Jesus said, “If you love me, keep my commands” (John 14:15).  Obedience is key. With knowledge of the Scripture, we will know what is required. And, when we abide in the Word, “Then you will know the truth” (John 8:31-32).  Truth brings changes and builds godly character as it unleashes the favor of God.    

BUILD A FIRM FOUNDATION OF TRUTH

Knowing the Scripture will produce confidence in God’s love and promises and culminating eternal life. God’s Word teaches how to live daily life, making the right choices.  God’s Word vanquishes fear, worry, unforgiveness, selfishness, and hatred. God’s Word provides direction for a successful life as a triumphant overcomer.  It reveals who you are and who God is.  God’s word is TRUTH for each day, each situation, each relationship, and each circumstance.    

Ask questions as you read. What did this mean to the people to whom it was written? What promise is there to claim? What example to follow? What command to obey? What sin to confess? And, how does it apply to my life today? The Holy Spirit will speak as you listen for the truth!

In a world of lies, how do we find the truth?  Read God’s Truth – the Bible.  Read it and reread it over and over, cover to cover, all of it.  Read it first! Read it every day, not just a chapter, but a book of the Bible.  Become a Word student, filled with wisdom that leads in straight paths every day, though falsehood is all around. 

LET THE WORD OF CHRIST RICHLY DWELL WITHIN YOU. Colossians 3:16

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CAN I BE HOLY? PART 1, Peters Example in the Struggle to be Holy

Byadmin

This is the first article in a six-part series on holiness from the books of First and Second Peter.  The word holy may seem lofty, unattainable, or restrictive. But God calls us to holiness, “Be holy because I am holy.”   Peter’s life gives us an example of how God turns an ordinary person, with doubts, fears, into a holy Christ-follower with unshakeable, obedient faith.  His life and writings give impetus to the truth that we, too, can live a holy life.

PETER fell at the feet of Jesus, “Go away from me; I am a sinful man.” That didn’t stop Jesus from taking Peter from a rough diamond and turning him into a faceted rock-solid gem that sparkled with the light of Christ.   Peter was transformed from a faithless fisherman to a forceful follower who didn’t back down from opposition or persecution.  

Let’s look at his story.

Peter Called by Jesus

Andrew brought his brother Simon to meet Jesus.  Upon seeing him,  Jesus said, “You are Simon, but you will be called Peter, the rock” (John 1:42).

On another occasion, Jesus climbed into Peter’s boat.  After a long, barren night of fishing, a word from Jesus brought fish swarming across the 13-mile fresh-water lake into Simon’s nets.   Awestruck by this miracle and captivated by a smile that conveyed a love deeper than the Sea of Galilee, Simon put away his nets, climbed out of the boat, and followed Jesus.  

fish

Peter’s Proclamation of Jesus the Messiah

When many disciples turned away, Peter proclaimed Jesus the Messiah, the Son of the Living God (Mark 8:29, Matt 16:16, Luke 9:20).  “Lord, to whom shall we go? You have the words of eternal life.  We have come to believe and to know that you are the Holy One of God” (John 6:60-69).  A shining moment for Peter!

In one overzealous, not-so-shining-moment, Peter rebuked Jesus for saying he would be crucified.  “Far be it from you, Lord!”  “This shall never happen to you” (Matthew 16:22).  Jesus called Peter a stumbling block because he didn’t have in mind the things of God. 

Peter’s Denial of Jesus

The disciples gathered at the last supper when Jesus announced a betrayer was among them.  Peter boasted he would never betray nor deny Jesus. But Jesus knew otherwise, “You will deny Me three times before the rooster crows” (Luke 22:33,34).

It happened just as Jesus said.  Later that night, the soldiers arrested Jesus while he and his disciples were praying.  Peter, trying to defend Jesus, chopped off the ear of the high priest’s servant, still unaware of the redemption plan.   Jesus healed the servant’s ear and told Peter, “No more of this.”

Peter followed Jesus to Pilate’s courtyard, but his courage soon dissipated when three people recognized him as a disciple. Peter’s “I’ll never deny you, Jesus” soon became, “I don’t know the man.”  The rooster crowed.   Jesus turned, and Peter’s eyes were caught in His gaze.  At that very moment,  the torment of guilt and shame overcame Peter.  In agony,  he fled as hot tears streamed down his cheeks (Luke 22:54-62). 

Following the death of Jesus, the disciples hid, fearful of the Jews.

On the Sabbath, the women who had gone with spices to the tomb of Jesus hurried back to report to the disciples the tomb was empty.  Peter and John ran to the tomb.  They looked in, struggling to make sense of it all. (Luke 24:1-12).  Uncertain, they returned to their familiar occupation of fishing.

Peter Restoration and Reappointment

Jesus appeared to his perplexed disciples after the resurrection.  On this third appearance, after a strenuous night of fishing,  the disciples heard a call through the morning mist,

“Do you have anything to eat?”

“No,” they answered.

“Throw your nets on the right side of the boat, and you will find some.”

Then John smiled and said to Peter, “It is the Lord.”  At once, their nets were so full they were sinking.  Peter grabbed his outer garment and jumped into the water. The other disciples towed the heavy nets to shore.  Famished, the smell of the frying fish drew them to Jesus. 

“Come and have breakfast,” Jesus said.

When they finished eating, Jesus drew Peter aside and said, “Do you love me, Simon?”   

“Yes, Lord, you know that I love you.“

Jesus asked again, “Simon, do you love me?” 

” Yes, Lord, You know that I love you.”

And a third time, Jesus said,  “Simon son of John, do you love me?”

Peter, cut to the heart, responds, “Lord, you know all things; you know that I love you.”

With each question to Peter,  the Great Physician applied the healing salve of forgiveness and restoration.  Peter would become that rock, after all!   Like the first time, Peter put away his nets and followed the Master.  This time, he would fish for men (John 21).  

Peter’s Encounter with the Holy Spirit

Moments before Jesus ascended, he told Peter and the other disciples to wait for the promise of the Holy Spirit that would empower them to be witnesses (Acts 1:8). 

For ten days, one hundred and twenty disciples waited in an upper room. The Holy Spirit came. They spoke in other tongues as the Spirit enabled them (Acts 2:4). The travelers in Jerusalem for Pentecost heard them speaking in their native languages, praising God. Amazed and perplexed, the crowd asked, “What does this mean?” (Acts 2:12).

Peter’s Ministry Launched

Peter raised his voice and addressed the crowd and preached about Jesus, His death, and resurrection.  Three thousand people responded to Peter’s message with repentance and baptism (Acts 2:15-40). The church was born.

The Lord continued to add to their number each day, as they continued in the apostles’ teaching, prayer, communion, and fellowship (Acts 2:42-47). 

Peter, a courageous leader, and bold preacher healed the sick (Acts 3:7; 5:15-16, 9:34), raised the dead (Acts 9:40), and called the church to holiness (Acts 5:4,5,10).  When the authorities arrested him for preaching about Jesus, he was fearless (Acts 4:21).  Peter led the church, obeyed the Holy Spirit, and carried the Gospel to the Gentiles (Acts 10). 

 

 

GOD PROVIDES EVERYTHING NEEDED FOR A HOLY LIFE

Jesus saw the potential in Peter’s life before he saw it himself.  While Peter saw his flaws and sins, Jesus saw a rock of faith (Matthew 16:16-18). 

Full of the Spirit, Peter writes, “His divine power has given us everything we need for a godly life through our knowledge of him who called us by his own glory and goodness” (2 Peter 1:3).  Peter knew it was true! Power from the Holy Spirit became Peter’s source of strength and guidance.

One of the most influential leaders of the first century, Peter experienced the rise from failure, frailty, and fears to overcoming power, strength, and boldness.  From Peter’s first encounter with Jesus,  “You are Simon, but you will be called Peter, the rock” God was grooming Peter in holiness.  And He will do the same for us. We are not what we will be. 

I hope you will take the time to read through 1 and 2 Peter, only eight chapters. Even in the face of death, Peter experienced the divine power capable of providing everything he needed to live for his holy Savior.  Peter died a martyr, being crucified upside down, feeling unworthy of dying in the same manner as Jesus. That’s unshakable faith.  That’s holiness at work!

When we become discouraged, remember Peter.  We can trust the promise of God’s “divine power” to help us and “give us everything we need” to grow into holiness. 

Therefore, with minds that are alert and fully sober, set your hope on the grace to be brought to you when Jesus Christ is revealed at his coming.  As obedient children, do not conform to the evil desires you had when you lived in ignorance.  But just as he who called you is holy, so be holy in all you do;  for it is written: “Be holy, because I am holy” (1 Peter 1:13-16).  

Go with us to Part 2.  GOD HAS CHOSEN YOU TO BE HOLY

God has chosen you and will provide everything you need to live a godly life. 

 

 

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IS THE WORD IN YOU TODAY?

Byadmin

Merely by speaking God brought the world into existence. God spoke.  Creation happened.   God created words.  According to Oxford Living Dictionaries,  there are probably three-quarters of a million words in our English language.  The website, Ethnologue, Languages of the World,  details 7,111 known living languages.   Words have power and coupled with God’s authority, that Word changes us as we live in the Word.  One of the best ways to know God, dwell in God’s presence, and love Him is to enjoy the Word daily.

In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was WITH God,

and the Word WAS God.  John 1:1

 

 

Wrodcloud IS THE WORD IN YOU TODAY post April 18, 2019

 

IN THE BEGINNING WAS THE WORD

Word (logos) as in “the Word of God” is a divine reason and creative order identified as Jesus in John 1.  Jesus gives us God’s Word, and he IS the Word.

  • GOD SPOKE

God spoke the world into existence.  God speaks….and it happens. And God said, Let there be light, and there was light (Genesis 1:3).  Ten times in the first chapter And God said, brought an immediate, actual creation.  And it was done!  He spoke, and it came to be (Psalm 33:9).

  • GOD WROTE

God wrote to Moses and the Israelites with His own finger (Deuteronomy 9:10),  These commands were written and stored in the Ark of the Covenant, a portable tabernacle, complete with a cloud of God’s very presence, and a fire at night.

  • GOD DWELLS

God’s words of commands and promise were placed in the Ark, which when the Israelites were not traveling, was located at the center of the camp, a symbol of where God wants to be with his people – in the center of their lives.  The Ark with God’s Words was the place of God’s presence among the people.

word Jesus
Photo by Erwan Hesry

AND THE WORD WAS WITH GOD

THE WORD IS JESUS

The Word is Jesus and was with God at creation.  In Genesis 1:1, In the beginning God (the Trinity – God the Father, God the Son, and God the Holy Spirit) created the heavens and the earth.  Colossians tells us that Jesus was the image of the invisible God who created all things.  For through him God created everything in the heavenly realms and on earth (Colossians 1:16  ESV).

AND THE WORD WAS GOD

Jesus, the Word of God, is the very image of God.  As God wanted to be the center of the His people with the Ark of the Covenant and later the temple, Jesus wants to be at the very center of our lives.  Jesus only spoke what God told him to say (John 12:49-50).

John 1:14 says, The Word (Jesus) became flesh so he could dwell among us.  He laid aside some of His glory to come and live among us.   Jesus, the Savior who paid for our sins by his perfect and sinless life, nailed them to the cross.   With his resurrection, we have eternal life.

But God demonstrates his own love for us in this:

While we were still sinners, Christ died for us (Romans 5:8)

When Jesus comes to set up his kingdom, his name is the Word of God (Revelation 19:13).

God spoke life into existence, and God gave written words so we could know God and live in His presence.  As we fill our hearts and minds with God’s words, God will dwell with us. (Jeremiah 31:33, Hebrews 10:16). And we will know an abundant life!

If you love me, keep my commands.  John 14:15

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Keep this Book of the Law always on your lips; meditate on it day and night,

so that you may be careful to do everything written in it. Then you will

be prosperous and successful.  Joshua 1:8

 

My husband often says it is easy to believe God loves us.  The hard part is, do we love God? One of the best ways to show our love for God is to devour His Word.  Read it like a love letter from the man you’re going to marry.  Keep reading it over and over.  As the word fills our mind and hearts, faith grows.  Our relationship with God grows.  Our nature and character become transformed into being more like Jesus.

Tie them around your finger. Write them on your heart. Proverbs 7:3 ESV

I’m going to keep reading through, again and again, meditating, learning, and growing.  I hope you will too!   I’d enjoy hearing some of the insights you are gleaning along the way!  Write in the comments or send me an email on the contact page.

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HAVE YOU READ THE WORD TODAY? 

Jesus is the Word!  The Word of God is eternal, like Jesus, who was in the beginning, was WITH God, and WAS God.  The Bible we hold in our hands is filled with the spoken and written words from God.

GOD SPEAKS and creates life in us through his word.

GOD WROTE our Bible through divine revelation  For prophecy never had its origin in the human will, but prophets, though human, spoke from God as they were carried along by the Holy Spirit (2 Peter 1:21).

GOD DWELLS with us as we identify and walk with God at the center of our lives.  As God dwelt with the Israelites with the Ark of the Covenant (his commands and promises), so God dwells in the word, our Bible, in the living and active words.

For the word of God is alive and active. Sharper than any

double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul

and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts

and attitudes of the heart  (Hebrews 4:12)

Job said I have treasured the words of His mouth more than my daily bread (Job 32:12).

Jesus said, we can’t live by bread alone, but by every word that comes from the mouth of God (Matthew 4:4).

When we fill hearts and mind with the Word, God will be our God, and we will be his people. (Jeremiah 31:33, Hebrews 10:16).

I’M PRAYING FOR YOU!

Dear Lord, fill us with your Word and your presence as we read today.  Be the center, the priority of our lives today!  Strengthen our hearts and minds with truth and love.   Thank you for giving us Your eternal, life-changing words!  We love you for it!  Amen!   

 

Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly. 

Colossians 3:16 ESV

 

 

 

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The Conquering Power of God’s Word

Byadmin
eyeglass with gold colored frames
Photo by John-Mark Smith on Pexels.com

We cannot stop God from loving us with the promise of  His favor and blessings in this life and into eternity. Nothing can separate us from His love. Our part is to be a student of God’s Word. Like Joshua, who kept the Law, meditated on it day and night, and did everything in it, he knew God’s favor and victory.

Keep this Book of the Law always on your lips; meditate on it day and night so that you may be careful to do everything written in it. Then you will be prosperous and successful” (Joshua 1:8).

Here’s my recent article on “How Can We Honor God’s Word in Joshua 1:8? 

Anchors of Peace in the Storms of Life

Byadmin

In anticipation of my forthcoming January interview on “Coffee and Connect with Lundstrom Ministries,” I have crafted an acrostic centered around the essence of PEACE— Prayer, Eternity, Assurance, Contentment, and Endurance. These elements stand as steadfast anchors, embodying God’s purpose, as affirmed by the timeless wisdom of Romans 8:28, assuring that all things work together for my ultimate good.  Within the acronym, each letter unfolds as a symbolic anchor, with the initial letter—P representing the profound significance of prayer.

P – Prayer

Too frequently, my mental landscape becomes consumed by worry, weaving intricate patterns of unlikely scenarios and fixating on the worst-case possibilities. In these moments, I unwittingly overlook God’s inherently good purpose for every facet of my existence. It’s a paradox, as someone astutely expressed, “Peace is not found in the absence of problems but in the presence of God.” Allow me to illustrate this paradox with a personal experience.

Early in my ministry years, what seemed like an endless period of about three months was marked by a heaviness and dark cloud descending on me each night as I lay down to sleep with terrifying dreams depicting my family enduring torture for our faith. Desperate to break free, I kept reading the scriptures, praying, and seeking to understand.

Weeks passed, and the weight showed no signs of lifting. I grappled with the purpose behind this unsettling experience—was it a preparation for some future trial, a revelation of sin within me, or simply a test of my faith? Then, on a Saturday night, during my usual prayer for the Sunday worship services, I heard the unmistakable voice of God and hastily transcribed His words. Immense relief swept over me. My focus was immediately drawn to the scriptures, where the words leaped out at me in bold print, conveying God’s loving care for me, both now and in the future. At that moment, God’s peace enveloped me, dispelling the confusion that had clouded my understanding. I knew, without a doubt, that God had met me in that time of prayer.

That night, the ominous cloud still lingered as I settled into bed. However, armed with the passages of scripture that God gave me, I audibly recited them back to Him. Through hearing the scripture with my own ears, my focus fastened on God’s promises. “Faith comes by hearing and hearing by the Word of God” (Romans 10:17).

Each passing day grew progressively brighter. The dark heaviness and horrifying dreams no longer gripped me. In their place, peace took root. The promises in Isaiah 54, which had been given to me during the trying period, unfolded: “This is the heritage of the servants of the Lord, and this is their vindication from me, declares the Lord” (Isaiah 54:17b).

Plodding through the rough places when we didn’t think we could take anymore has taught me the truth: God is peace, and it begins with prayer. The comfort of Philippians 4:6-7 tells me I can bring all my concerns to my loving Lord, and as I do, my anxiety will allow peace to “guard my heart and mind through Christ Jesus.”

Another companion verse from Isaiah 26:13 reaffirms, “You will keep in perfect peace those whose minds are steadfast, because they trust in You.”

Set your heart and mind on things above

Colossians 3:1-2

E – Eternity in view: Perspective Shifts Everything

We reside in the state of Arizona, with the presence of beautiful, majestic mountain ranges. A mere twelve miles from our home stand the Santa Rita’s. As we make the drive towards them, a remarkable phenomenon unfolds. The closer we come, the more their grandeur expands, looming larger and more awe-inspiring.

In a parallel way, redirecting our earthly focus towards the eternal echoes this experience.  Through prayer and the word of God, the proximity to Jesus is magnified. The closer we come to Him, the more expansive and profound He becomes— a towering presence far greater than our earthly troubles. It’s a perspective shift where the enormity of God dwarfs the scale of our problems.   

In Colossians 3:1 and 2, Paul reminds us our hearts and minds can be filled with eternity’s focus. “Set your hearts on things above, where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God.  Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things.” And verse 15 continues, “Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts since, as members of one body, you were called to peace. And be thankful.”

Shifting our focus toward heaven, like David when facing Goliath, employs assurance in God’s promises of care.  I wonder if Peter might have walked safely to shore with Jesus that stormy night had he maintained his focus on Him, steering clear of the turbulent distractions surrounding him.

A – Assurance in God’s Word: A Rock-Solid Foundation

Thankfully, we have an anchor of assurance in God’s Word. We can hold firmly to it as Psalm 119:105 declares: His Word is a lamp for our feet, illuminating the path ahead.

While living in Minnesota, we faced a battle instigated by the county government, which aimed to jeopardize our well-being by imposing substantial property taxes, putting our retirement funds in peril.

The focal point of contention was the land itself, specifically what lay beneath it—- a previously undisclosed dump site, absent from our property deed. The four-year struggle pushed us to our limits. Our mainstay verse, tailor-made for our situation, came from Psalm 24:1, “The earth is the Lord’s, and everything in it, the world, and all who live in it.” Through the miraculous workings of God, our house was spared, and the legislature shifted the burden from us to the responsible party, the state, allowing us to emerge from a trial that once seemed insurmountable.  

God is faithful. His Word is true. We have the assurance we are on a rock-solid foundation, and “when the storm passes, the righteous stand firm forever” (Proverbs 10:25).

C- Contentment: Embracing the Now

In a world constantly urging us to strive for more, contentment can seem unmanageable. Yet, there’s profound peace in embracing the now and acknowledging God’s blessings around us. Philippians 4:11-12 nudges us to be content in all circumstances, whether in want or plenty.

Though not easy, recognizing what we have been given through the shed blood of Jesus and the blessings that come from being Him will carry us through any situation and into eternity.

Prayer, with eyes on Jesus, and standing on God’s promises will bring us contentment as we trust in God. Contentment comes through being thankful. Our family, friends, home, food, spiritual blessings, and much more than we deserve are gifts from the One who gave us life and breath, “who richly provides us with everything for our enjoyment (1 Timothy 6:17).

We can weather life’s storms by growing these anchors of Prayer, Eternity, Assurance, Contentment, and Endurance.    

E – Endurance: Weathering Life’s Storms

David’s life stands as a profound testament to endurance. Personal setbacks seemed insurmountable as he grappled with years of evading murderous King Saul. Despite being anointed as the future King of Israel, David, in a pivotal moment, returned from his time with the Philistine King Achish to find Ziglag in ruins and his loved ones taken captive. Overwhelmed, David and his men wept until they had no strength left to weep.

David had already spent years enduring a relentless pursuit by Saul, compelling him to live in exile. Seeking refuge in the Philistine territory proved futile, as he faced rejection from the commanders of their king. David’s challenges escalated as the families were taken captive and the city lay in ruins. After years of navigating the hardships of seeking sanctuary, he faced the disheartening reality that even his trusted men wanted to kill him.

What did David do? He had the anchors of peace through the struggles, and David “found strength in the Lord his God” (2 Samuel 30:6).

 He led his men to recover all that was lost in that divine strength, realizing the Lord had granted them victory. Instead of succumbing to despair, David restored their families and everything that had been taken. David shared the spoils of victory with friends and elders in Judah, spreading God’s bounty.

David’s resilience, fortified by prayer and an eternal perspective, gave him the assurance and confidence to endure the trial as described by Proverbs 14:30, “A heart of peace gives life to the body.”

The next time a storm comes, we have all we need to survive and come through victoriously.

I’m so thankful God meets every need, including a peace that passes understanding. Prayer and an eternal perspective with assurance in God’s Word produce God’s “peace which transcends all understanding” (Philippians 4:7). This assurance cultivates the confidence to bolster endurance, helping us weather any storm that life may present.  

photography of waterfalls between trees
Photo by Rifqi Ramadhan on Pexels.com
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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.

 

 

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THANK YOU, READERS

Byadmin

December 17th our granddaughter, Emily, was married to Blake Thompson. What a joy it was to celebrate with them even though it was in South Dakota in winter (-54 windchill one day – uffda). We live in Arizona so our blood is thinned and it was cold! But hearts were melting with joy and gladness! I thought you might like to see my husband, John, and me with the happy bride and groom!

Now to the reason for my writing to you today. When I started this blog, I was being obedient to share the things in my heart that would encourage my readers to love God more because of the Scriptures. Since I developed my website, I have attended writer’s conferences, connected with published writers, practiced, and joined an international writing group, Word Weavers, to improve my craft of writing. 

Along with attaining a new level of writing, I’ve given many hours to the study of the Scripture, not only while I was pastoring, preaching, and teaching, but through my desire to know God at a deeper level. I have been able to devote more time to reading, studying, taking notes, and writing in retirement.

 I’m so thankful/indebted/overwhelmed/satisfied/pleased/grateful for God’s Word! It’s divinely inspired by God, and more than any other book, the words are from “the very mouth of God,” according to Jesus in Matthew 4:4, and “alive and active” (Hebrews 4:12), It never runs out of “new” and fresh thoughts of God’s speaking to my needs, fears, desires, or guidance. 

At the start of this new year, it is a great time to read the Bible if you haven’t already. The most important book of all time is ours. God’s words are written in the pages, and we have access to them. I am thankful for the different translations. Each time we open the cover, we learn more and more. 

You can check out the online options here if you need a Bible reading plan.

Reader, please know of my gratitude to you! Thank you for being a reader/subscriber and interested in learning more from God and growing into an authentic follower. 

If you haven’t checked out my worship music on my channel, you can do so here or on the pull-down menu. Let the times of worship and peace of God fill your heart and soul.  

My prayer is that you will drink deeply of the well of water springing up into eternal life.

Jesus answered and said to her, “Everyone who drinks of this water will thirst again; but whoever drinks of the water that I will give him shall never thirst; but the water that I will give him will become in him a well of water springing up to eternal life.” John 4:13-14 NIV

THANK YOU, DEAR READER! If you have questions or comments, please leave them in the comment section or send an email to me at pastorj.mc@gmail.com.

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2 Comments

  1. Isn’t Facebook truth commissions the arbiter of truth? Isn’t truth personal as in “well, that may be YOUR truth”? This is the demonic deception of our time. Christ and His word is not only OUR truth, He is THE truth!

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