Follower

“The true children of God are those who let God’s Spirit lead them.” (Romans 8:14 ICB)

A few months ago, several members from our running group drove eight hours to a race in a different state. There were several cars in our caravan. On the way there, we all took turns being the lead car. If someone thought they knew the way, or was in a mood to drive faster, the others would let him pass. Since it was daytime, we could see each other easily and keep up. The way back was a different story. All of the drivers, except one, had run the marathon and were exhausted. Thus, we let the non-runner drive the lead car. The other drivers followed closely. Since it was dark, it was difficult to tell all the cars apart. One of the drivers in our group got too far behind, missed an exit, and got lost.

There are multitudes of articles on leadership skills, but very few on follow-ship. Allowing someone else to take the lead and yielding to his/her direction and guidance takes humility. Many of us would rather let our skills, wits, or ego take the lead.

As Christians, we are not only called to believe but also to follow.
True children of God let the Spirit lead. They humble themselves and depend on the Lord for direction.  They don’t attempt to figure out everything on their own. Instead, they stick close and pay attention to the Spirit’s every move. They trust God, commit to His cause, and submit to being followers.

“Now you’ve got my feet on the life path, all radiant from the shining of your face. Ever since you took my hand, I’m on the right way.” (Psalm 16:11 MSG)

Leader

“Your own ears will hear him. Right behind you a voice will say, ‘This is the way you should go,’ whether to the right or to the left.” (Isaiah 30:21 NLT)

We have all worked with people who seem to have what the world considers good leadership skills. They all seem to have certain characteristics in common; most are extroverted, articulate, charismatic, attractive, intelligent, wealthy/successful, funny, and likeable. They are comfortable being in front of a crowd and persuading others to join their cause. They enjoy power and adulation. Pride is more prevalent than humility.

God leads differently. He guides us like a shepherd does his flock--caring, providing, and protecting us at all times. He remains tuned in to our needs. Our Lord is available and dependable. He sacrifices Himself for our welfare. He is a servant leader--full of humility and compassion. Sometimes He goes ahead--especially if there is danger. Other times, He is our rearguard, whispering which way we should turn. He never gives up on us, even when we act stupidly. He continually pursues us with goodness and unfailing love.

Past Trauma

“I remember my affliction and my wandering, the bitterness and the gall.” (Lamentations 3:19 NIV)

After I ran my first marathon, several of my toenails turned black. This is what happens when your feet take a pounding for several hours. Even though black toenails are unattractive, they still function as a protective layer for your toes. After a month, my big toenail fell off completely. Now my nail bed was exposed and sensitive. If I dropped even a spoon on my bare feet, I would cry out in pain. To others who lived with me, it seemed like I was overreacting. I don’t know when this toenail will grow back fully. For now, I have learned to wear covered shoes to hide and protect my feet.

Trauma injuries are not always obvious, especially psychological ones. When someone seems hypersensitive to certain issues that don’t bother the average person, it might be due to pain and loss from their past. Or, they may be genetically predisposed to be fragile in certain areas. Many of us learn to cover up our damaged and vulnerable parts--partially to appear normal, but also as a protective mechanism. 

Healing and regrowth are not up to us but are in God’s hands. This might take decades, so we must remain patient and understanding. Our role is to stay tuned in to God, to wait in hope, and to reorder our lives in submission to His will. Our Lord is dependable. His compassion never fails. His love never runs out.

“When life is heavy and hard to take, go off by yourself. Enter the silence.  Bow in prayer. Don't ask questions: Wait for hope to appear.” (Lamentations 3:28-29 MSG)

Stirring Sticks

“O LORD, We have waited for You eagerly; Your name, even Your memory, is the desire of our souls.”(Isaiah 26:8 NASB)

Do my words and actions stir up a desire for God in others? 

Conversion to a set of beliefs does not ensure transformation. Sharing my faith with another person may make them curious; my experiences and passion might pique their interest. However, none of this goes deep enough. 

The desire for God is inherent in every human being.  If I  yield to God, He can work through me--using me as a stirring stick. Like butter is churned from cream, God brings up faith and passion. He awakens His Spirit in each of us. He transforms us into the beings we were created to be. 

Effective Tranformation

"The LORD your God will change your heart and the hearts of all your descendants, so that you will love him with all your heart and soul and so you may live!” (Deuteronomy 30:6 NLT)

When I first moved out on my own, I didn’t have a tool box. My parents gave me a little hammer. Nested inside this hollow hammer were an even smaller flathead screwdriver and a tiny Phillips screwdriver. These three tools enabled me to put together my first dinette set and fix a lot of the minor issues I encountered in my first apartment. It didn’t take long before I realized the limitations of these little tools. After my husband and I moved into a house, we went out and bought power tools. 

When we want to fix someone, we naturally grab onto familiar tools we have at hand. If our family of origin used blame, shame, guilt, and force, we may easily fall into the same pattern. These tools may seem like quick fixes, but they rarely work in the long run. Unconditional love and acceptance, on the other hand, have transformative power. These new tools may seem unfamiliar and inefficient. It is tempting to go back to old patterns of coercion and manipulation, especially when there is little evidence of progress. But God’s way is better. He sands down our unfinished parts and those of our children as well. His power is life changing, full of grace, and heals us from the inside out. 

True Restoration

“I will transform the lame into survivors, and those who were scattered into a strong nation;”  (Micah 4:7 ISV)

Chaos is like a tornado. It forces us to let go of whatever we are clinging to for security. Long-held beliefs get tossed in the wind; relationships disintegrate; priorities are reshuffled. What was once clear is no longer. 

After a tornado, there is a period of disorientation and despair. Some give up; others clean up and start over. Many of us depend on our own skills and work ethic to restore things back to normal, for we can’t imagine anything better than going back to how things were. But there is something better! 

We can surrender the broken pieces of our lives to God. He takes what we offer and carefully molds it. He is more concerned about our innermost parts, not an external makeover. The changes may take a few days or a few decades. Once transformed, God has plans for us. We are not put on  display to be admired. Instead, God uses us as change agents to transform the lives of others. 

Why Praise God?

“They raised their voices and praised the LORD with these words: ‘He is good! His faithful love endures forever!’ At that moment a thick cloud filled the Temple of the LORD. The priests could not continue their service because of the cloud, for the glorious presence of the LORD filled the Temple of God.” (2 Chronicles 5:13-14 NLT)

When someone flatters me, I immediately suspect they want something from me. Why else would they butter me up? However, I compliment others regularly without any ulterior motive. I notice something good; I say it out loud. That’s it. So...why the double standard? These distorted thoughts have seeped into my relationship with God. I don’t spend much time praising God, because it feels like I am trying to cajole Him with flattery. It’s time to work out this tangled misbelief! 

Why Praise God?

First of all, God is worthy of Praise. When I notice His goodness, I should recognize it and affirm it. Praising God allows me to focus on God instead of obsessing over my problems. It reminds me of God’s power and my powerlessness. Praise increases my faith and dependence. It empowers me with courage and strength to wait for God’s timing.  It reduces my agitation and brings peace. 

Praising God shifts my perspective and the environment. My misgivings and unbelief dissipate, clearing space. God takes over the situation. His Spirit moves in like a rain cloud in the midst of a drought, pouring out His power and grace. This is exactly what I need. 

Lord, I praise You. You are pure goodness. You are powerful. You are awesome.  You love me and take care of me.  I trust in Your promises. Thank you for taking away my fears. 

Removing Cataracts

“Instantly something like scales fell from Saul's eyes, and he regained his sight.” (Acts 9:18 NLT)

Cataracts cause clouding of the lenses of the eyes, leading to blurry vision. Since this issue develops gradually as people age, many just accept it as part of life. They do not realize the extent of their visual impairment and thus delay getting corrective surgery. 

Similarly, many of us do not realize that we are spiritually blind. We look at everything through lenses clouded by worldly values and jaded attitudes. We hang around with others who also have hazy vision. 

Saul kept doing what came naturally to him until he was incapacitated. Then, he stopped in his tracks and submitted to supernatural healing. Unless we come to a point of total desperation, like Saul, we too continue to operate with scales on our eyes. However, God is compassionate. He gets our attention, takes us aside, and asks us to yield to His ministrations. If we surrender, He grants healing, clarity, and purpose. 

Christmas Lights

“If you are filled with light, with no dark corners, then your whole life will be radiant, as though a floodlight were filling you with light." (Luke 11:36 NLT)

A few years ago, we bought a pre-lit Christmas tree. When all the lights were on, the tree looked lovely. This year, when we put the tree up, some of the lights no longer worked. There is a dark gap in the middle that takes away from the beauty of the tree. 

We are each called to serve Christ in different ways. When we allow the Spirit of God to flow and reveal Himself through us, our days become like strings of light. If we fail to be the light for our surroundings, we take away from the glory of God’s Kingdom. 

Lord, heal us; restore Your Spirit within us. Let our whole life be radiant. Help us to steadily illuminate every dark corner with Your light. 

Pass the Bread

“For I pass on to you what I received from the Lord himself. On the night when he was betrayed, the Lord Jesus took some bread and gave thanks to God for it. Then he broke it in pieces and said, ‘This is my body, which is given for you. Do this to remember me.’” (1 Corinthians 11:23-24 NLT)

One of my favorite holiday traditions is to bake a huge batch of dinner rolls. They are always a big hit with my guests. ‘Can you pass the bread’ is a frequent request at the dinner table. As the basket of bread gets passed along from one end of the table to another, each individual takes what they need before they hand it to the next person.

The Word of God is bread that sustains and nourishes the soul.  These days, technological resources enable us to share Scripture with others. Once we take what we need, we can pass it along to the next person. By doing this, we can bring comfort, encouragement, wisdom, conviction, and edification. We can feed the masses through social media, or we can have intimate gatherings where we minister to one individual at a time through private communications. Whatever methods we choose, the Word of God is distributed and everyone is blessed.

Speaking for Others

“Speak up for the people who have no voice,  for the rights of all the down-and-outers. Speak out for justice!  Stand up for the poor and destitute!” (Proverbs 31:9 MSG)

The popular passage on how to be a ‘wife of noble character’ is found in Proverbs 31. I have looked to this portion of the Bible for directions on how to be a good wife, mother, and woman. Yet, until recently, I had not paid attention to the verses preceding this section. As women, are we called to speak up for those who have no voice?

There are so many people in this world who are powerless, vulnerable, and voiceless. Refugees, undocumented immigrants, women, young children, the elderly, the underprivileged, people with disabilities-- all often go unheard.

If you have the privilege, the luxury, of being able to have a voice--then develop it and use it. First, learn to stand up for your own beliefs.  Then, speak up for those who have no rights. Defend the powerless, the voiceless, the poor, and the destitute. Confront bullies and oppressors. Fight against injustice. As women of noble character, this is part of our calling.

A Clear Voice

“If you need wisdom, ask our generous God, and he will give it to you. He will not rebuke you for asking.” (James 1:5 NLT)

I am not one to keep my opinions to myself. Yet, I often feel unheard or ignored. Am I not speaking clearly, assertively? I used to blame others for not listening, but I’m beginning to think I am contributing to this problem. I am recognizing certain patterns in my behavior. I state my opinions, desires, beliefs. If there is any resistance, especially from people I love, I back off; I defer; I yield.

Why?

1. I don’t want to face the discomfort of disapproval; thus, I cave in when others push back.
2. Yielding makes me feel feminine, kind, magnanimous. I’ve internalized the message that being unyielding is selfish, bitchy, hard, and cold.
3. I am not clear about my own values, choices, and priorities. I’m not sure where my responsibilities end and where the other person’s start. I send out mixed messages. This makes for fuzzy boundary lines.
4. Since I’m not clear about my boundaries, I don’t defend them firmly. I really don’t have a plan on how far I will go, or how far I will allow others to influence my life. I don’t prepare myself for the inevitable resistance I will face when I stand up for my beliefs.

Lord, grant me the clarity, wisdom, courage, and strength to find my voice, speak clearly, and not be shushed.

Prince of Peace

“For a child is born to us, a son is given to us. The government will rest on his shoulders. And he will be called: Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God,   Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.” (Isaiah 9:6 NLT)

Peace, wholeness--this is what I long for

Confusion, brokenness--this is what I have

I’m tired of this never-ending battle

There is no fight left in me

Who is ruling my heart?

The Prince of Darkness or the Prince of Peace?

It’s time for a regime change

Wholeness shall reign

I’m handing my brokenness over to the Restorer

The One who brings Shalom

Supernatural peace

Wholeness shall reign

The War will continue

But the battle is not mine to fight

The Prince of Peace will take over

Wholeness shall reign

Amazing Counselor

Strong God

Eternal Father

Sovereign of Wholeness

Identifying the Enemy

“For we are not fighting against flesh-and-blood enemies, but against evil rulers and authorities of the unseen world, against mighty powers in this dark world, and against evil spirits in the heavenly places.” (Ephesians 6:12 NLT)

I struggle with anxiety. It would be easy to think that the emotion of anxiety is the enemy that I need to battle, but it’s not. It is just a spear in the hands of a skilled Enemy. If I only focus on fighting this weapon, I can easily be defeated by a blow to the head.

I struggle with certain relationships. Often, I mistake the difficult person as my enemy. However, this person may just be under the influence of Evil. At some point in our lives, we have all been pawns in the hands of the Enemy. But for the saving Grace of God, we would still be there.

The conflicts we face in our lives may appear to us in the form of other individuals and human weaknesses. Yet, there are unseen forces at work behind the scenes directing these battles. Properly identifying the real Enemy is integral to fighting Evil.

Applying Logic to Spiritual Problems

“Well aware of their reasonings, Jesus answered their questions by asking in turn, "What is this that you are debating in your hearts?” (Luke 5:22 WNT)

Antibiotics are useful when treating bacterial infections but not for viral illnesses. However, since it is often hard to distinguish between bacterial and viral infections, many of us seek antibiotics when we feel ill. This can cause more harm in the form of antibiotic resistance.

Similarly, logic and reason are useful ways of dealing with most earthly issues but not for spiritual matters. It is often difficult to tell the difference. Most of us apply the same ointment of logic to every affliction. When faced with adversity, we use rational thoughts, arguments, debate, human knowledge, and experience. If something doesn’t make sense, we reject it as nonsense. This can cause more harm in the form of spiritual resistance.  As long as we continue to rely on human strategies, we cannot access God’s power.

Natural solutions cannot address supernatural problems. At best, human logic can lead to temporary relief. Faith that does not extend beyond human reasoning is ineffectual.  Thus, it is imperative that we lean not on human methodologies but on God to fight spiritual battles.  Only Divine healing leads to true transformation.

The Holy Spirit

“But when the Father sends the Advocate as my representative—that is, the Holy Spirit—he will teach you everything and will remind you of everything I have told you.” (John 14:26 NLT)

The Holy Spirit is a mystery to many. We can imagine God as Father--a better version of our earthly dads. We can picture Jesus--healer, teacher, savior. But the Holy Spirit seems enigmatic--ungraspable like the wind, animated but invisible, all encompassing yet unexplainable.

The Bible describes the Holy Spirit as an advocate, friend, teacher, counselor, comforter, reminder, giver of gifts, indwelling presence, voice of truth--keeper of all the intangible attributes of the Trinity. The Holy Spirit is more often experienced than visualized--a hefty weight that is comforting, not burdensome; a supernatural conscience that influences our human spirit--empowering, clarifying, prompting, electrifying. How do we respond to this inexplicable member of the Trinity? We welcome Him/Her. We make space to be filled. We hand over control.

Weird Directions

“Now an angel of the Lord said to Philip, “Go south to the road—the desert road—that goes down from Jerusalem to Gaza.” So he started out, and on his way he met an Ethiopian eunuch.” (Acts 8:26-27 NIV)

Have you ever felt prompted to go up and speak to strangers? It’s one thing to go up to people with whom you have something in common, but it’s much harder to start conversations with those who are completely different than you. Unlike Philip, if I felt the nudge to go up and speak to an Ethiopian eunuch, I would most likely ignore it. I would tell myself: That can’t be from God! That’s crazy. God’s directions would make sense. It would align with my strengths and gifts. Wouldn’t it?

“For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways, declares the LORD. For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways and my thoughts than your thoughts.” (Isaiah 55:9 NIV )

What is the appropriate response to divine nudges? First, we acknowledge that God is in charge and we are not. This requires humility and surrender. Once we accept God’s will, obedience becomes a little easier. Our faithfulness cannot hinge on positive outcomes or validation. God’s plans may not always make sense to us. His directions may seem counterintuitive and counter culture. Yet His thoughts and ways are better than ours.

Daily Prayer

“Seven times each day I stop and shout praises for the way you keep everything running right.” (Psalm 119:164 MSG)

The concept of praying throughout the day has been a part of many religious traditions from Judaism, Christianity, and Islam. For centuries, Catholics and Episcopalians have used the Divine Office (or Liturgy of the Hours)--a rhythm of praying seven times a day. They used psalms, hymns, scripture, and set prayers at different times each day: Matins (middle of the night), Prime (first thing in the morning), Terce (before we start our work), Sext (noon), Nones (mid-afternoon), Vespers (sunset), and Compline (before bed). The early church recognized the importance of pausing every few hours to remember God. Unfortunately, the Divine office is only practiced by clergy these days.

During this Advent season, a friend and I are trying something new. We are reminding each other to pause and recognize God throughout the day. We each have our ways of doing so, but here is a window into my own version of the Divine Office: I get hungry or thirsty every few hours. I use these triggers to turn to God. I read a few verses of scripture, listen to a song, sing along if I’m alone, pray for those who come to mind, write down any spiritual nudges, or praise and thank God. This doesn’t take as long as my morning quiet times. It’s just a brief pause in the middle of my busyness--a moment to get close to Jesus, give Him a hug, express my love, and enjoy His presence.  

On the Other Side of the Curtain

“Jesus opened a new and life-giving way through the curtain into the Most Holy Place.” (Hebrews 10:20 NLT)

My friend’s mom broke her hip a few weeks ago. Her mom was in a rehab care center after surgery. My friend spent her days by her mom’s side. When I went to visit them, they were in a semi-private room with a curtain in between two beds. The second bed was unoccupied. When my friend’s mom was napping, we would go to the other side of the curtain so as not to disturb her. Every so often, when her mom turned or made any sound, my friend would reassuringly say: “Mom, I’m right here behind the curtain if you need anything.”

What if our entire life were recorded--enabling us to see the visible and the invisible? If we took the time to rewind the footage of our lives, we would recognize that God has always been present. Sometimes we may fail to notice Him because of certain barriers. Christ made the ultimate sacrifice, opening a new, life-giving way through the curtain, so that we have full access to the Holy. We may become somnolent, distracted, complacent, or disoriented; but God remains near, waiting for us to call on Him.