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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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!

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Lingering in the Lord’s Presence Reveals God’s Power and Glory

Byadmin

Often, we may think that lingering in God’s presence is not a good use of time. With many necessary responsibilities in a day, why linger? However, time in God’s presence brings many benefits. Our ears are open to hearing God’s voice, our eyes see the glory of God, our minds are renewed, and our hearts become transformed. And we gain the confidence that God wins our battles. Joshua is a good example for us. God’s glory and presence shaped Joshua’s life.

God called Moses, the elders, and Joshua to the mountain to ratify the covenant between God and Israel. Together with God, “they ate and drank together.” Leaving the elders, Moses and Joshua went further up the mountain and entered God’s presence, and saw the glory of the Lord (Exodus 24:9-18).

At the “tent of meeting” when Moses and God spoke “face to face, Joshua heard the conversation inside the tent. When Moses left, Joshua lingered.

The Lord would speak to Moses face to face, as one speaks to a friend. Then Moses would return to the camp, but his young aide Joshua son of Nun did not leave the tent (Exodus 33:11).

designed by Judy

Through the forty years in the wilderness, Joshua, confident of God’s presence, was ready to lead the people into the Promised Land. Now standing before Jericho, the doorway into the Promised Land, Joshua looked up and saw a man in front of him with a drawn sword in his hand. Joshua went up to him and asked, “Are you for us or for our enemies?” The man replied, “Neither, but as commander of the army of the Lord I have now come.” Then Joshua fell facedown to the ground in reverence, and asked him, “What message does my Lord have for his servant?” The commander of the Lord’s army replied, “Take off your sandals, for the place where you are standing is holy.” And Joshua did so. (Joshua 5:14-15).

Joshua was familiar with the Lord’s voice. He knew the power and glory behind it and was eager to worship, listen, and obey.

He humbly received his orders from the Commander of the armies of heaven, confident in God’s promises to win this battle. Miraculously, the walls of Jericho came tumbling down. The Israelites conquered the city and began their quest for the Promised Land.

Like Joshua, taking time to be present with God, soaking in the glory of His presence through the life-changing encounter with Almighty God, tunes our ears to listen, our hearts to obey, and our minds to be confident in God’s provision. God will fight for us.

Time in God’s presence covers us with God’s favor and deliverance.

You make known to me the path of life; you will fill me with joy in your presence, with eternal pleasures at your right hand. Psalm 16:11.

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Part 6 The Holiness of Suffering – a Divine Purpose

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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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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. 

 

 

DO YOU WISH YOU READ THE BIBLE MORE?
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DO YOU WISH YOU READ THE BIBLE MORE?

Byadmin

More than half (58%) of all adults wish they read the Bible more often.  Fifteen minutes a day will help you accomplish reading through the Scriptures in one year.   You will glean God’s secrets, know right and wrong, find clear direction, love God, learn how to love others.  Make Bible reading more than a wish. Begin today. 

Knowing the Scriptures is like an artist who blows off the dust of a picture and discovers it’s a masterpiece. It’s like hidden treasure unearthed. God speaks through His Word.

God spoke through human writers led by the Holy Spirit to include the words directed and authored by God.  Incredibly, all sixty-six books (66) have a unique unity, written by over 40 writers, in three continents, over 1600 years.  Our modern copies’ accuracy is very close to the original languages of the Old and New Testaments.  God’s Word is eternal.    

The grass withers, the flowers fade, but the word of our God stands forever.  Isaiah 40:8

 Heaven and earth will pass away, but My words will not pass away.”  Matthew 24:35

I WILL KNOW GOD THROUGH DAILY BIBLE READING.

1. God reveals secrets to me.

Much like a love letter, God reveals his nature and character through the pages of Scripture.  Through challenging days, God’s Word speaks to my needs.  God’s Word gives answers to morality, ethics, emotional health, and life.  The Word of God is living and active, with the power to dive into my heart and renew or change my thinking.  I understand more about the secrets of God’s love and will for my life.

The message was kept secret for centuries and generations past, but now it has been revealed to God’s people.  Colossians 1:26

I’ll lead you to buried treasures, secret caches of valuables —confirmations that it is, in fact, I, God, the God of Israel, who calls you by your name. Isaiah 45:3  MSG

2. The Bible teaches me right and wrong.  

Not only do the commandments guide me, but there are also many instructions to right relationships in marriage, children, enemies, and employers.  Within its pages, the principles of every relation of life are found.

All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, so that the servant of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work.  2 Timothy 3:16-17

3. The Bible keeps me from sin

I have hidden your word in my heart that I might not sin against you. Psalm 119:11

The Bible is a textbook on morality, ethics, relationship, work, wisdom, creation, right and wrong, values, rules of conduct, and more.  The commandments and promises of God keep my heart in check.  When I listen and do what the Bible says, I will know God’s blessings and help each day. 

  “The Bible will keep you from sin, or sin will keep you from the Bible.”  

American Evangelist, Dwight Moody (1837 – 1899)

4. Scripture reveals the direction for my life.

When we seek the Lord through his Word, we will have a sense of the Holy Spirit’s leading and guiding us in the right ways.

Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.  Psalm 119:105

He guides the humble in what is right and teaches them his way.  All the ways of the LORD are loving and faithful toward those who keep the demands of his covenant. Psalm 25:9-10

5. My love for God grows.

When spending time in God’s word, I learn more about God and his character and nature.  When I was dating my husband, I re-read over and over every letter I received in the days before texting and email.  In his letters, my mind was overflowing with his love for me.  I found out more about him, too.  Similarly, the more we read God’s love letter to us, the more we’ll grow to know and love God.  The more we’ll have God’s blessings and promises. 

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

6. My love for others grows.

Relationships can be challenging.  The Bible teaches us to love our enemies, how to deal with anger, and wait on God to take care of vengeance.  Without God’s instruction, we would easily remain in our human, selfish nature.  With God’s Word, we learn to rise above, conquer, and overcome the carnal, sinful nature as we allow God’s character to grow in us, as evidenced by our behaviors.

But I tell you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, that you may be children of your Father in heaven. Matthew 5:44-45

Do not take revenge, my dear friends, but leave room for God’s wrath, for it is written: “It is mine to avenge; I will repay,” says the Lord. Romans 12:19

MORE THAN A WISH, BUT A LIFE-CHANGING REALITY

More than half of all adults wish they read the Bible more often.  Today is the day to change from wishing to reading! 

Daily set a regular time to read with a prayerful attitude, take notes on what God speaks to you, and read with a plan to complete the entire Bible this year.  Tell someone of the nuggets of truth God reveals through this Book of Books!   

A few minutes a day will change your life. 

O how I love and treasure the revelation of your word;
throughout the day I fill my heart with its light!  Psalm 119:97 TPT

Bible Reading Plans and Helps Here

In A World of Lies, Where is the Truth?
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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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2 Comments

  1. Great reminder, Judy. Reframing our thoughts requires constant work and the Holy Spirit is more than happy to help. Can’t do it alone!

    Reply