Merit

“For it is by grace that you have been saved through faith; and that not of yourselves. It is God's gift, and is not on the ground of merit— so that it may be impossible for anyone to boast.” (Ephesians 2:8-9 WEY)

The current administration in the United States is pushing for a merit-based immigration plan. Potential immigrants would be judged on qualifications such as education, age, wealth, and fluency in English. It gives bonus points for those with Nobel prizes and Olympic medals. Many of us who are current citizens of the U.S. would not qualify to live here by these standards. 

Fortunately, God’s grace is not merit-based. We cannot fall out of His favor. We are not judged on our qualifications. God’s love and acceptance is unconditional. We don’t have to prove our worthiness. All we have to do is receive His grace by faith. We have been offered citizenship in the greatest of kingdoms. Now it is our turn to respond. Will we accept this offer, leave our current lifestyle behind, and relocate to God’s Kingdom.

Internalizing the Word

“You must commit yourselves wholeheartedly to these commands that I am giving you today. Repeat them again and again to your children. Talk about them when you are at home and when you are on the road, when you are going to bed and when you are getting up.” (Deuteronomy 6:6-7 NLT)

My cousin’s kids are fluent in two languages--English and their ancestral language of Malayalam. They spoke English in school, with their friends, and heard it on TV.  So, how did they become proficient in a language that is rarely heard in the United States? Well, their parents spoke it at home. They heard it first thing every morning when they woke up and every evening as they lay down. They heard it in the car on their way back and forth to school and on vacation while they relaxed. They heard it when they prepared and ate their meals, when they worked, when they played, and when they prayed. The kids automatically absorbed their ancestral language through immersion. 

How can we be a part of this world and still understand our Father’s language? We can take every opportunity to saturate ourselves in the Word of God. Repetition and practice reinforce what we learn. Once we have internalized God’s directions, they spread, as if by osmosis, into all aspects of our lives. Thus, even when we live and work among those who cannot understand our spiritual language, we retain what we know and can use it whenever we need it. The Word of God, once imprinted deeply in our hearts, will continually influence us and those around us.

Faith and Nationalism

“So there is no difference between Jews and Gentiles, between slaves and free people, between men and women; you are all one in union with Christ Jesus.”(Galatians 3:28 GNT)

Patriotism is the love of one’s country for what it does. Nationalism is the belief that one’s country is superior to other countries--no matter what it does. The latter promotes exclusion, intolerance, and violence. The New Testament teaches mercy and compassion, to love your neighbors and your enemies. I doubt that Jesus would condone bombing civilians in other countries, tearing apart immigrant families, or turning back refugees at man-made borders.

Unfortunately, our present ‘America First’ ideology has displaced God as the primary love of our lives. The idols of country, flag, anthems, political party affiliation, etc. can distract us from following Christ’s teachings. Why is this form of idolatry so widely accepted? It starts out subtly--a national flag in a church where people meet to worship God...perhaps a few patriotic songs as part of the worship service. After years of conflating love of God and love of country, it’s only natural that we hardly resist when the pulpit is turned into a political tool.

Nationalism adulterates faith. Those of us who claim to follow Christ cannot claim superiority, promote exclusivity, or endorse violence. This is a gross misrepresentation of the teachings of Jesus. Not only does it make all Christians look like hypocrites, it also blasphemes God.

“But I have this complaint against you. You don’t love me or each other as you did at first!  Look how far you have fallen!” (Revelation 2:4-5 NLT)

God the Rescuer

“Don’t be afraid. Just stand still and watch the Lord rescue you today.” (Exodus 14:13 NLT)

I am concerned about many things today. I strive to do something, anything, to resolve the issues in front of me. Fear churns up worry. I feel agitated, unable to settle down. I take shallow breaths as I whisper shallow prayers. Trusting God with my concerns seems difficult in my current state of mind. Yet, I know I have no other choice. I realize my insufficiency, my powerlessness. Thus, I surrender.

Spiritual battles cannot be fought with earthly weapons or techniques. And, much of what we think are worldly issues are rooted in the spiritual dimension. When we approach our daily concerns with self-help, human knowledge, and whatever skills and resources we have, it’s equivalent to taking a knife to a gunfight.

Striving might make us feel less idle, but it also interferes with God’s work. As long as we keep trying to rescue those who are not in our power to save, we hinder what Christ is doing in their lives. We are not helping the situation; we are merely getting in the way.

Oh Lord, help me to trust you and not be afraid. Teach me to be still, to wait and watch as You handle every concern. Holy Spirit, take over.

Self Effort

“Do not let your adorning be external...” (I Peter 3:3 ESV)

I try to wear makeup when I’m going out. It makes me feel polished and self-assured. I have my routine down pat; it takes about five minutes for me to apply foundation, eyeliner, and lipstick. However, I find myself wearing makeup less often these days. Even though cosmetics make me feel better about myself, I realize that the confidence they provide is, well...cosmetic.

Most of what we present to the world, most of what others see and approve is superficial. We spend our time and energy on adornments, accomplishments, and acquisitions. We apply ourselves to constructing an exterior that garners approval and acceptance. All of this brings about a tenuous sense of self-esteem that vanishes as soon as the external facade is taken down. If my confidence is based on my makeup, clothes, accessories, education, job, wealth, relationships, car, home, abilities, etc., then it’s just a matter of time before it crumbles. All of these things are temporary. Conditional worthiness is not worth much. Thus, self-effort does not lead to genuine significance. It cannot. 

Craving to be Understood

“But now that you know God--or rather are known by God--how is it that you are turning back to those weak and miserable forces? Do you wish to be enslaved by them all over again?” (Galatians 4:9 NIV)

How many of your friends do you really know, and how many of them truly understand you? Do you share only what you are proud of, or do you reveal that which you are ashamed of as well? True relationship is about knowing the other and being known. Yet, much of our social interactions are based on maintaining facades which garner admiration. We are enslaved by some unexplainable force that makes us act in ways that are artificial and pointless. This miserable habit diminishes our chances of meeting a basic human need--the desire to be understood.

It’s a good thing that God knows us. We can’t pretend with Him. He knows us inside and out, the good and the bad. He sees us, recognizes us, and is aware of our every motive. He knows our past, present, and future. He understands us better than we understand ourselves. He shares our experiences and our concerns. There is no need to explain ourselves to Him. Despite knowing everything about us, He chooses to be with us. He claims us as his own. His unconditional love affirms us. His acceptance makes us inherently significant. 

O Lord, You understand me. I am awestruck that you still want to be with me and are willing to make sacrifices for me. Thank You. I want to know You better and get closer to You as well. Help me. 

Praying Psalm 139

Lord, examine me
You know everything about me
You always know where I am
What I am thinking, and
What I am going to say
You go ahead of me 
You follow me
Your reassuring presence surrounds me
Where can I escape from your love
You are there at my highest and lowest points
You are there in the brightest and darkest times
You shaped me from the very beginning
You know me inside and out
You have a plan for every stage of my life
You understand me
But I can’t begin to fully comprehend You.
Let me still live with You
Far away from wickedness
Having nothing to do with Your enemies
Examine me, O Lord
Look carefully at my thoughts and motives
Point out anything that is wrong
Guide me along everlasting ways

Erecting Monuments

“Saul went to the town of Carmel to set up a monument to himself;” (1 Samuel 15:12 NLT)

We recently found out that our town has an important memorial that we had never seen. We read about the location and went searching for it. It was difficult to find, because there were several tall buildings blocking it on all sides. These buildings were constructed with no regard for how people would access the memorial.

The world teaches us to make a name for ourselves. Thus, we construct facades that display our accomplishments and acquisitions while concealing our shortcomings. In our attempt to be seen as important, we erect monuments to ourselves: we build grand homes, purchase expensive cars, take exotic vacations, and seek prestigious positions of influence.  Unfortunately, there are ramifications to our self-aggrandizing behavior. When our agenda overshadows God’s purpose and will, we lose sight of God. Our ambition and egotism may also block others from accessing God.

Lord, You have given me much.  May I honor You by tending to and growing the gifts with which You have entrusted me. Let me leave plenty of space for Your glory to be noticed and appreciated. Teach me to give You all the credit and never usurp the spotlight that belongs on You alone. Help me to be devoted and humble. 

Blooming in the Desert

“The desert will bloom with flowers...” (Isaiah 35:2 NIRV)

I recently visited a friend who lives in a semi-arid climate. The landscape has very little natural vegetation. Yet, around her home, she has planted several flowering plants. Under her care, these flowers bloom despite the harsh conditions. My friend nurtures the people around her community too. She pays attention to those who often go unseen. She teaches those who are eager to learn. She reaches out to the vulnerable and the lonely. She is thriving in the desert. And God is using her to water others as well.

I came away from that visit with many questions: How can I flourish even when my circumstances are not favorable? Do I wait for my circumstances to change? What can I learn from my friend?

--Trust God. Learn to lean on God and not look to anything else as your source of security.

--Be thankful. No matter what your circumstances, thankfulness will lift your spirit.

--Be other-focused. There are people you can help and those that are beyond your influence. Find someone you can lift up.

--Listen for God’s instructions. Do not take a step without God’s guidance.

--Give God all the glory. You may be able to survive in a desert by your wits, but only God’s grace can enable you to thrive. Remind yourself and others of this truth.

“I thank Christ Jesus our Lord, who has given me strength to do his work. He considered me trustworthy and appointed me to serve him.” (1 Timothy 1:12 NLT)

Best Investment

“The Kingdom of Heaven is like a merchant on the lookout for choice pearls. When he discovered a pearl of great value, he sold everything he owned and bought it!” (Matthew 13:45-46 NLT)

When investing money, I look for two main things: dependability and profitability.  Stocks have the potential for high returns, but they are risky. You could make a lot of money, or you could lose your principal.  Treasury bonds backed by stable governments are less speculative, but they also have lower yields. Banks are even safer; however, they offer even lower returns on your investment.

What if you could find an investment that offered absolute security and unlimited potential for growth? Would you not invest your time, energy, and whatever resources you had in it? Or would you suspect that it seems too good to be true? I think many of us would be curious, wanting to learn more about such an opportunity. After studying it carefully, if we realized that this investment was solid and lucrative, we would put everything we had into it.

God is trustworthy. Those who follow His lead have an unlimited potential for growth and meaning. The godly operate in a realm that offers immeasurable gain and guaranteed stability. Don’t take my word for it; investigate it for yourselves.

 “Make a treasure for yourselves in heaven that never loses its value!” (Luke 12:33 GWT) 

Thanks and Praise

“I will exalt you, LORD, for you rescued me.” (Psalm 30:1 NLT)

We take so much for granted--the air we breathe, clean drinking water, shelter from the elements, food in the fridge, electricity, the ability to walk, run, think, read...the list is endless. Yet, we tend to obsess over what we don’t have, while ignoring the blessings we do have. Cultivating a spirit of gratitude allows us to focus on our bounty rather than on our disappointments and deficiencies. A filter of thankfulness diffuses bitterness and improves our outlook on life.

There are many who attribute their blessings to good fortune, hard work, knowing the right people, specific talents, or their environment. This makes sense. If you are living in a developed country and were born into privileged circumstances, you may imagine that you got lucky. In contrast, if you were born into under-resourced surroundings, you may blame everything on bad luck. You may be grateful for all that is good in your life. You may also grumble about all the bad breaks you have had. This is where most of us fall on the spectrum of gratitude--a realistic, worldly perspective that fails to recognize God’s part in the equation.

Praise takes the spirit of thankfulness to the next level. Instead of a general attitude of gratitude, or attributing everything to luck, genetics, or hard work--we give God the credit. Praise allows us to trust God during pleasant experiences as well as during adversity. We exalt Him, recognizing Him as the source of all power. We worship, bowing down in acceptance to His will and wisdom. We glorify Him, reminding ourselves and others of His greatness.

Praise be to God, who has not rejected my prayer or withheld his love from me! (Psalm 66:20 NLT)

Learn by Heart

“Place these words on your hearts. Get them deep inside you.” (Deuteronomy 11:18 MSG)

One of my elderly aunts has been bedridden for several years. When she was younger, she made a habit of memorizing scripture verses. Until recently, she could speak. She used to quote scripture to herself and to any visitors as she lay in bed. She can no longer eat, move, or communicate with others, but we are sure she still has the comfort of those scripture verses in her heart.

Her example has become an inspiration to me. These days I have so many ways to look up scripture verses--smartphones, computers, multiple translations of the Bible in print. The plethora of resources makes memorization of scripture seem irrelevant. Why go through the trouble of rote learning when the information is easily accessible?

Knowing God’s word by heart is more than mere memorization. This practice takes time, commitment, and discipline. As we imprint scripture deep within our soul, we gain new levels of understanding, strength, and comfort. We are guided away from temptation and back to wholeness and goodness. It allows the Spirit of God to speak to us even in the most desperate times when everything else shuts down.

“I have hidden your word in my heart, that I might not sin against you.” (Psalm 119:11 NLT)

Detach from Snares

“It is dangerous to be concerned with what others think of you, but if you trust the LORD, you are safe.” (Proverbs 29:25 GNT)

Poaching wildlife is an illegal yet lucrative business. Poachers trespass, steal, capture, and kill endangered species. Multiple snares are set in paths where animals are likely to travel. Lures are set out to attract unsuspecting creatures into traps that usually lead to slow and painful deaths.

The desire to please others is natural in human beings. We crave honor and admiration. We try to avoid anything that might engender public disapproval. Our self-worth and identity become tied up with what others think of us. These natural tendencies can become evil snares that trap us in bondage.

However, those who lean on God for their identity, who put their confidence in Him, are safe. No one is completely immune from the mischief of evil. There will always be those who try to manipulate, cajole, accuse, shame, flatter, and control others. However, God-pleasers are not permanently trapped by public opinion. Even if they get caught in the snares of peace poachers, they know how to extricate themselves by asking God for help.

Lord of all grace and mercy, protect us from the snares of evil. Teach us to rely on You for our identity and self-worth. 

First Light

“After the Sabbath, as the first light of the new week dawned, Mary Magdalene and the other Mary came to keep vigil at the tomb.” (Matthew 28:1 MSG)

Lately I’ve been waking up around 4 am--but not on purpose. Instead of calling this insomnia, I’ve decided to think of these as wake-up calls from God. I figure there is something I need to be hearing/praying/writing about at that time, and that is why I am awake at that hour! After I brush my teeth, I brew my coffee. I sit in my chair by my east-facing window while I sip coffee and read my Bible. It’s still dark outside, but in a short while, I notice the faintest light in the sky.  

Many of the world’s religions encourage prayer at dawn. Sunrise is traditionally when most people start being industrious. Thus, the twilight hours of the early morning are considered the ideal time for meeting with God. Before the busyness of the day takes over, a chance to be still and be attentive. 

First Light. Prime time for awe and reverence. Waiting for the Son. Jesus.

Selah

“People, always put your trust in God! Tell him all your problems. God is our place of safety. Selah.” (Psalm 62:8 ERV)

The Hebrew word selah is found in many parts of the Bible. The Amplified Bible translates selah to mean “pause and think of that.”

-When a particular verse or phrase tugs at my heart. Selah.
-Someone speaks words of wisdom. Selah.
-I look up from my morning prayers and notice the pink clouds preceding a sunrise. Selah. 
-The lyrics to a hymn drift into my mind. Selah.

I am reminded to pause and contemplate, to meditate on God’s trustworthiness. Even though my days are full of external and internal noise, I take breaks to share my questions, doubts, and concerns with the Lord. These retreats may only last minutes, but they are integral to my peace and sanity.

“Stand in awe, and sin not: commune with your own heart upon your bed, and be still. Selah.” (Psalm 4:4 KJV)

Listening Prayer

“And the LORD came and called as before, "Samuel! Samuel!" And Samuel replied, "Speak, your servant is listening." (1 Samuel 3:10 NLT)

God is constantly communicating with us. Creation itself is an ongoing conversation. He speaks to us daily through the wonders of nature, miraculous signs, scriptures, people, books, songs, dreams, visions, physical sensations, emotions, thoughts, impressions, etc. The key is to pay attention.

How can we listen to God?

-Expect God encounters. Many of us never notice God, because we aren’t expecting Him to show up in our daily lives. If we are meeting someone in a crowded area, we know we need to be actively looking out for him. Become familiar with God. Learn to know what to look for.

-Avoid distractions and tune in to the Spirit. God often uses non-verbal communication. He may impart wisdom, strength, guidance, comfort, and correction through impressions on our spirit. Be patient. Be still. Focus.

-Ask God questions. If you lack understanding, if you need direction, go to the Lord first instead of consulting your friends, family, and the internet.

-Obey diligently. God can use us as a messenger, a mouthpiece, or a scribe. He can nudge us to reach out, be empathetic, speak truth, encourage, and guide others. This might involve speaking, writing, or being present in the lives of others. Submit to being used by God even when it is uncomfortable.

“God speaks in the silence of the heart. Listening is the beginning of prayer.” (Mother Teresa)

Flak vs. Abuse

“They sharpen their tongues like swords and aim their bitter words like arrows.” (Psalm 64:3 NLT)

We have all known people who use their sharp tongues and bitter words as weapons of attack. Constant criticism and bullying can erode one’s dignity and sense of self-worth.

“We can learn to live with a little flack in the name of healthy self-care. Not abuse mind you. Flack.” (The Language of Letting Go by Melody Beattie)

The word ‘flak’ originally meant anti-aircraft artillery directed at combat pilots. These days we use the word metaphorically to mean criticism or hostility directed at an individual. When does flack become abuse? When it causes damage! If a plane is flying at an altitude beyond the range of the anti-aircraft fire, flack is just a nuisance. However, if the missiles are long range, or the plane is within reach, results are deadly. Similarly, words and attitudes can turn from noise to abuse depending on how close the source is  to the target. Condemnation and denigration from those who are supposed to care for us can eventually bring even the strongest of us down.

Your Territory

“I hope as you become stronger in your faith, we will be able to reach many more of the people around you. That has always been our goal.” (2 Corinthians 10:15 CEV)

Last month, I attended a training seminar for running coaches. We were all volunteers who signed up to coach school children in afterschool running programs all over the state. There were several seasoned coaches who shared their experience. They gave us training manuals and a duffel bag of supplies to distribute to the students in our programs. We all left with a new-found energy and enthusiasm about what lay ahead.

Whenever we gather together in the name of Christ, we share in His light and wisdom. This is not just meant for our own edification. Our faith is built up so that we may reach the people around us. We are called to go out into our own assigned territories and make an impact. Our region of influence might be our families, friends, workplace, school, church group, neighbors, prison, gym, country club, vacation destination, homeless shelter, grocery store, bowling alley, social media, etc.  Equipped with our training manual and all the other supplies that were handed to us, let us go forth with energy and enthusiasm.

“Go out and train everyone you meet, far and near, in this way of life...” (Matthew 28:19 MSG)

Carved Bowls

“You will suffer for a while, but God will make you complete, steady, strong, and firm.” (1 Peter 5:10 CEV)

I recently watched a time lapse video of a tree stump being carved into a wooden bowl.  It was fascinating! The woodworker found a tree that had been felled in a storm. He used an axe to make the initial cuttings and various smaller hand tools for the finer work. He made a small indentation in the flat surface and kept gently scraping away until the middle was hollowed out. After the bowl was shaped, every surface was sanded down smoothly. Then he poured a generous amount of oil onto the surface and rubbed it in with his hands. The oil was a type of varnish that seals and protects the wood from cracking while also bringing out its natural luster and depth. Everything was done carefully and methodically. Although it looked like a work of art, the woodworker mentioned that this bowl was meant to be functional--it would be used in his home as a serving bowl.

I have a friend who has been hollowed out by suffering. At first, it was hard to imagine that anything good or useful could come out of her hardships. Yet, God is a master woodworker. He took what looked like a stump and carved it carefully--sanding down every splinter. He sealed her with His anointing, methodically revealing her natural depth and luster. She has become a serving vessel that is used to feed and nurture others. God was not the cause of her pain, but He made sure her suffering was not in vain.

Dependable Caretakers

“It is required of stewards that one be found trustworthy.” (1 Corinthians 4:2 NASB)

Our dog depends on us to care for her. She cannot feed herself, brush herself, or even get out of the house to potty without someone to help her. Thus, I consider her needs before I make any plans to be away from the house. I have often wished that I took care of myself as well as I cared for my dog.

Those who are raised in dysfunctional families often have trust issues. When you cannot depend on your caretakers to be stable and consistent and put your needs above their own--it’s hard to feel protected and comforted. This can lead to feelings of vulnerability and unworthiness. Even as adults who are capable of self-care, we may neglect our needs and leave ourselves unprotected.

The Lord cares for us. We can count on Him to be steady and stable. However, He has appointed us stewards of our own environments. We are called to be dependable caretakers. As adults, we have been entrusted with taking care of our own bodies, minds, and souls.  We can ask God to teach us how to do this properly and consistently.

Watch Out for Drug Dealers

“Stay alert; be in prayer so you don't wander into temptation without even knowing you're in danger.” (Matthew 26:41 MSG)

Imagine you have a friend who engages in risky behavior occasionally.  She may drink alcohol socially, use drugs recreationally, gamble when visiting casinos, or flirt with strange men while on vacation. It’s not like she is an addict. Her drug dealer is a personal friend. She is just having fun and releasing some stress. What’s the harm? Most of her behavior is legal, even if it isn’t necessarily beneficial. If you, as her friend, point out that she is playing with fire, she would think you are a prude. 

When you read the above paragraph, you might have thought to yourself: Well, some of those are completely harmless behaviors. You probably have engaged in them yourself.  Temptations are subtle; we are often oblivious of the dangers until it’s too late. Like fish that fail to see the hook hidden underneath the lure, we take the bait. 

One of the most inconspicuous forms of temptation is our desire for approval. It’s the gateway to many other addictions. Like other recreational drugs, it induces an altered state of consciousness--triggering pleasurable sensations and modifying our perceptions.  It makes us behave in ways that are incongruous with what we know in our depths to be true and pure. Our approval dealers may be strangers, coworkers, acquaintances, personal friends, or family members. We think they are harmless; they give us what we desire, and they are fun to be around. The opiate of admiration lulls us. We fail to notice the strings of approval and disapproval tugging at us. We become unconscious of the danger and get lured into temptation without even knowing it.