Daily Offering

“Take your everyday, ordinary life - your sleeping, eating, going-to-work, and walking-around life - and place it before God as an offering. Embracing what God does for you is the best thing you can do for him.” (Romans 12:1 MSG)

Over the last few weeks, Kerala, India, has been devastated by severe flooding. Over 800,000 people have been displaced from their homes. Although the Indian Navy is involved in the rescue operations, many of the rural rescues are being conducted by local fishermen. I read a report about a poor fisherman who goes out daily in his boat to help rescue those who are stranded in their homes. He said that some people welcome his help, while others reject it. Several homeowners are suspicious of his motives. They are afraid he might loot their homes after they leave. For weeks, he has not been making any income from fishing. His boat has some damage from floating over street debris. He knows he is putting himself at risk for disease from the contaminated flood waters. Despite all this, the fisherman keeps taking his boat out daily. He offers up his time, talent, equipment, dignity, income, comfort, and energy to do the right thing.

This fisherman is living out the teachings of Christ. How can we learn to do the same? Perhaps it would be best to start practicing before a crisis. Take an ordinary day, and place it at God’s disposal. Offer up the day as soon as you wake up. Instead of filling up your schedule with your agenda, wait for God’s directions. Embrace interruptions; they may be opportunities to serve. Accept any discomfort, loss, and inefficiency that comes up. Seek to be a part of whatever the Lord is doing today.

Traveling Light

"Travel light. Comb and toothbrush and no extra luggage.” (Luke 10:4 MSG)

On long runs, I wear a belt with pouches to carry my supplies. It holds my phone, a small bottle of water, gel packs, chapstick, car keys, tissue, etc. I may not need all of these things, but it makes me feel secure to have these supplies with me, just in case. However, carrying all this extra weight with me slows me down.

Are you carrying around habits or attitudes that are holding you back? Unforgiveness, fear, cynicism, resentment, entitlement, despair, ambition, pride, greed, materialism, etc., can all make you feel less vulnerable, but they can also weigh you down. Determining what is essential and what is extra can be difficult. Most of us want to be self-sufficient, prepared for any eventuality.

Jesus sent his disciples out into the world. He instructed them to travel light and not take any extra baggage. Why? He knew that any extra stuff would limit their movements and slow them down. He did not expect the disciples to be self-sufficient. Instead, they were taught to depend on God for sustenance, guidance, and protection.

Grafting Trees

“Some of the tree's branches were pruned and you wild olive shoots were grafted in. Yet the fact that you are now fed by that rich and holy root gives you no cause to crow over the pruned branches. Remember, you aren't feeding the root; the root is feeding you.” (Romans 11:17-18 MSG)

Grafting is the practice of joining two plants together permanently so that they will continue to grow as a single organism. There are many steps to this delicate process. An established tree with a good root system is the ideal place to start. If this tree is not producing the right kind or amount of fruit that the gardener desires, the original branches are pruned off and new scions (tender shoots from another plant) are attached. Scions are chosen for desirable characteristics--delicious fruit, beautiful flowers, ease of harvest, etc. The rootstock, the lower portion of the established tree, provides water and nutrients to the scions that have been grafted onto the trunk. A cleft is cut into the bark of the rootstock. The scion is also cut on one end before it is inserted into the bark of the established plant. Proper alignment and pressure are necessary for the process to succeed. The grafting site is wrapped until both plants learn to ‘communicate’ through their vasculature, joining together to become one.

Those who trust God have been grafted into the rootstock of Christ. Our survival and productivity depend on our assimilation with the nurturing root system. Although the scion becomes the visible part of the tree that displays all the foliage and fruit, it still remains completely dependent on the root. Similarly, we are called to flourish in holiness while sustained by Christ. The Master Gardener cuts each of us gently, but precisely--before grafting us to the rootstock. He aligns us properly and applies the right amount of pressure. In time, we learn to communicate with the root through trust and prayer. We are wrapped in grace and love until we are conformed to Christ.

“I am the vine; you are the branches. Those who remain in me, and I in them, will produce much fruit. For apart from me you can do nothing.” (John 15:5 NLT)

Yielding to God

“The chosen ones of God were those who let God pursue his interest in them, and as a result received his stamp of legitimacy.” (Romans 11:7 MSG)

The Catholic Church has a lengthy process of determining if someone is qualified to be called a Saint. However, in my opinion, anyone who allows God to pursue HIS interest in them is a saint. Mother Teresa was well-known for allowing God to use her for His purposes. Yet, there are many others who yield to God, lead virtuous and sacrificial lives, but go unnoticed.

I have been blessed to cross paths with several saints in my lifetime. They allow God to work through them, putting their self-interest aside to love and serve others. They model lives of sanctity and sacrificial living. They quietly go about the Lord’s business, rarely calling attention to themselves. These hallowed individuals inspire me to let God pursue His interests through me and to seek no other validation than His stamp of legitimacy.

Abuse in the Church

“But if you cause one of these little ones who trusts in me to fall into sin, it would be better for you to be thrown into the sea with a large millstone hung around your neck.” (Mark 9:42 NLT)

The Catholic church has a history of covering up child abuse committed by its clergy. As someone who attends and supports the Catholic Church, I am deeply disappointed in this practice. Any institution that preys on the innocent is abhorrent, but when those who claim to represent Christ do it, it’s even worse.

Why would we hold on to our faith despite the hypocrisy and corruption that we know is part of organized religion?

“They're holding on, not because of what they think they're going to get out of it, but because they're convinced of God's grace and purpose in choosing them. If they were only thinking of their own immediate self-interest, they would have left long ago.” (Romans 11:6 MSG)

Many of us are able to hold on to faith because we can separate God from religion. Religion is man’s interpretation of God, and churches are religious institutions. I stopped expecting to get anything out of church a long time ago. Despite this, I am convinced of God’s grace and purpose. So, I stay to fight from within--to speak up for the voiceless and stand up for the powerless.

Embraced by the Unknown

“When I am afraid, I will put my trust in you.” (Psalm 56:3 NLT)

It was 5 a.m. I was backing the car out of the garage. I looked back as I reversed the car. I couldn’t see anything. I was used to the predawn darkness, but this was different. A thick fog enveloped everything. I put the gear back in park and just sat there for a moment. Over the last year, my fear of driving in the dark had diminished. But, going out on this dark, foggy morning felt scary, dangerous, and unwise. As I sat there, debating what to do next, I remembered something I had read in a devotional a few days before:

“My eye is not on the density of the fog, but on the living God who controls every circumstance of my life.” (George Mueller)

Here was my chance to apply something I had read. My fear stemmed from my fixation on the fog and the darkness. I couldn’t see where I was going. I had minimal control. I had two choices. Either go back in the house and wait until visibility improved, or trust God. The first seemed rational, while the latter felt absurd. And who was to say that God wasn’t the one directing me to stay home?

I sat quietly in my car. I asked God for guidance. I felt a sense of peace. I backed the car slowly out of the garage. I drove out into the darkness, and the fog embraced me. My eye was no longer on the density of the unknown, but on the living God who controls every circumstance of my life.

Leaning into the Light

“The Lord is my light...” (Psalm 27:1 NIV)

Some days, despair rolls in like dark clouds obscuring all light. Disillusion sets in, draining all vitality and passion. Visions and plans are abandoned. We sit alone in our hopelessness. We wait for the darkness to pass, but it seems like it never will. Our loved ones try to help, but few are willing to remain with us in the suffering. Instead, they try to distract us, cheer us up, and motivate us to move forward.

Dark clouds are often a prelude to rain. Seeds that lie dormant underground start germinating, even though visible signs of growth take time. Once a seedling breaks through the ground, it leans into the light. Its roots reach out to absorb every drop of rain. Nothing is wasted.

In times of darkness, Jesus remains near. He stays with us in our despondency. He plants seeds of purpose in the deep recesses of our heart. And, when the time is right, He provides the light for us to see our circumstances clearly. Our souls germinate through the darkness, leaning into His light. Our roots reach out, absorbing the pain, and using it for growth. We recognize God by our side. We were never helpless after all.

Mantras

“I will meditate on your precepts and fix my eyes on your ways.” (Psalm 119:15 ESV)

The Sanskrit word mantra is a word or phrase that is repeated to aid concentration during meditation. It is a sacred utterance that elevates the mind psychologically and spiritually.

Runners often use positive mantras to replace negative self-talk. There are times when every muscle hurts, we feel exhausted, and our minds tell us we cannot go on. During these times, we search the recesses of our minds for encouraging messages that pull us out of despair. The best mantras are short, positive, and motivational. They animate our spirits and resonate in our souls

I use mantras while running and as I go about my daily activities. My favorites are often scripture verses:

“I can do everything through Christ, who gives me strength.” (Philippians 4:13)

“Lord, have mercy.” (Psalm 123:3 NLT)

“Trust Him, and He will help you.” (Psalm 37:5 NLT)

“Fear not, for I am with you.” (Isaiah 43:5 ESV)

Sometimes, when repeating a phrase takes too much effort, I simplify my mantra down to one word.

JESUS!

I repeat His name over and over with every breath.

I focus on God.

I fix my eyes on His ways.

Thought Training

“Be very careful about what you think. Your thoughts run your life.” (Proverbs 4:23 ICB)

Marathoners often remind each other that long distance running is 90% mental. Much of the physical conditioning is done ahead of the actual race. We train our bodies by incrementally pushing our muscles, lungs, and heart to endure longer distances. We plan what we will eat and drink before, during, and after each run. And, we prepare for the inevitable mental fatigue that sets in during the later miles.  We train our brains to cope with discomfort and reject negative self-talk.

Our thoughts run our lives. Thus, we must be selective about which thoughts we allow into our minds. Like uninvited guests, they will show up at the door. If we let them in, they will make themselves comfortable and never leave. Fill your mind with helpful thoughts so that there is no room for toxic messages. Intentionally invite thoughts that strengthen you; let them into your mind; feed them; entertain them; allow them to influence you.

Well Insulated

“May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.” (Romans 15:13 NIV)

Positive feedback can boost your confidence. For example, if several people have mentioned that you look good in blue, you are more likely to feel better when wearing blue. This, in turn, may influence you to wear blue more often. Compliments can fill us with a sense of self-assurance. However, the approval of others cannot shield us against feelings of insecurity.

When we attempt to encourage others by pointing out their talents, beauty, intelligence, virtue, etc., we may build them up temporarily. Yet, it’s like a builder who uses hot air to insulate a building instead of using a highly rated foam insulation that can be blown into every nook and cranny of a house. While the first option might provide warmth for a few minutes, the latter will protect the house from the external climate permanently.

God is good and trustworthy. He will fill you with joy and peace as you trust in Him. The power of the Holy Spirit will enable you to overflow with hope. Encourage each other.  Spread this message until it reaches every nook and cranny. This truth is the best insulation, protecting us even in the harshest times.

Beach Houses

“Everyone who hears these words of Mine and does not act on them, will be like a foolish man who built his house on the sand. The rain fell, and the floods came, and the winds blew and slammed against that house; and it fell—and great was its fall.” (Matthew 7:26-27 NIV)

Beach houses are often built to capture the best view. This means that they are often built on sand with no solid foundation. Many of them are built on stilts to protect them from rushing flood waters. These coastal homes are subject to erosion, heavy winds, and water damage. Unstable foundations lead to structural collapse. This is a fact. Yet, people continue building oceanfront properties, because they like the view. They prize pleasure over wisdom.

The teachings of Jesus form a firm foundation for our lives. They are not merely cosmetic improvements or trendy updates. These foundational words, when worked into our lives, provide stability, strength, and safety. Yet, many of us overlook this truth and choose to build our lives on stilts in the sand. We imagine that we can prop ourselves up indefinitely with a combination of self-sufficiency and luck. The view may be enjoyable for a while, but it’s just a matter of time before everything comes crumbling down. When troubles roll in like storms, our vulnerability becomes evident. The sand that we built on is washed away, exposing the frailty of the human condition. There is a better way. Let us choose to dig deeply and lay our foundation on solid rock. Let us build our lives on higher ground, so that when the floodwaters rise, we remain stable--because our trust and hope are firmly placed in Christ.

Ignoring Data

“Inexperienced people die because they reject wisdom. Stupid people are destroyed by their own lack of concern.” (Proverbs 1:32 GNT)

Researchers know that more data points increase the accuracy of their conclusions. There may always be a few outliers, but careful analysis of data usually reveals patterns. Ignoring trends in data just because they don’t fit your original hypothesis is not only wrong, but it’s also just plain dumb.

When trying to read people and situations, most of us have access to a certain amount of data. For example, if your car has not handled well in snow in the past, you can predict that it is likely to do the same in the future. Unless, of course, you have made some significant modification--like snow chains on your tires to increase traction. Even then, you would have to drive the car in the snow a few times before you have new data that would change your perspective. Similarly, if we have known someone for several years, we have several prior experiences that we can use to predict their motives and behavior. People reveal who they are through their actions more than their words. Pay attention and look for patterns. Are they likely to be honest, consistent, dependable, and kind? Or are they self-serving, manipulative, deceitful, unstable, and irrational? We all want to believe that people can change, especially if they are our friends and family. Thus, we often ignore what we don’t want to see.  Some people do turn over a new leaf. However, it is unwise to believe that a person or situation is going to be different until we have enough data points to make that assessment. Do not be naive and disregard evidence, even when it is unpleasant. Keep your eyes, ears, and every sense open. Listen to your instincts. Do not be influenced by those who merely claim to have honorable intentions. Trust must be earned through a succession of congruent behavior that reveals integrity.

Gratitude Vision

Open my eyes so I can see what you show me of your miracle-wonders. (Psalm 119:18 MSG)

Yesterday I was grumpy. I complained about everything. When those around me tried to make me feel better, I became even more cranky. I read the above verse last night. I didn’t know what to make of it. I copied it down for further thought and went to sleep. This morning, as I was sitting across from my husband at breakfast, I found myself thinking: Thank You, Lord. Then, I noticed the coffee and toast in front of me, the warmly lit room, our dog waiting patiently for the last bite of my toast, and the same phrase kept popping into my mind...Thank you, Lord.

Nothing had changed from the day before when I had the same toast, with my husband, at the same table, in the same room, with the dog waiting at my feet. But my perspective had shifted ever-so-slightly. It was like my eyes were opened to God’s daily miracle-wonders. I was given the gift of gratitude vision...at least for a few minutes. Unfortunately, it faded once I got up from the table. The busyness of the day took over and my mind returned to focusing on all I had to get done. About mid-afternoon, I remembered the verse I had copied down. Then I prayed: Lord, open my eyes. Let me notice your handiwork. Grant me supernatural senses and teach me to appreciate all that You do. Amen.

Stuck in Transition

“When you go through deep waters, I will be with you. When you go through rivers of difficulty, you will not drown. When you walk through the fire of oppression, you will not be burned up; the flames will not consume you.” (Isaiah 43:2 NLT)

A triathlon competition requires participants to first swim, then bike, and then run certain distances. Getting through each of these stages requires training and grit. The transition phase between swimming and biking can be tricky for many new triathletes. They have to remove their wetsuits, find their bikes, etc. while they are disoriented after the swim. While many of these athletes have trained to swim, bike, and run--very few seem prepared for the transitions.

Transitions between life stages can also be disorienting.  From childhood to adolescence, to independent adulthood, to assisted living as you age; from single, to married, to divorced, or widowed; from college, to job, to unemployed, or retired; from parent, to empty-nester, to grandparent; from inherited faith, to skepticism, to intimacy with God--life is marked by transitions. While many of us expect and prepare for the different stages of life, we don’t seem to know how to handle the transitions. We get stuck.

The same God who has promised to be with us when we go through difficulties and oppression, will also be there as we pass through transitions. Keep your focus on following the Lord--not on what you have left behind or what is yet to come; not on your exhaustion or your fear; not on grief, loss, uncertainty, or insecurity. All of these things will bog you down, sapping your strength and resolve to move forward. Instead, continue to trust the Lord. Stay close. Imitate His movements. Listen carefully to His directions. The race is not over. Keep moving. Pass through.

Organic Faith

“I know what enthusiasm they have for God, but it is misdirected zeal. For they don’t understand God’s way of making people right with himself. Refusing to accept God’s way, they cling to their own way of getting right with God by trying to keep the law.” (Romans 10:2-3 NLT)

Humanity has always tried to get things right with God by following religious rules and practices. Unfortunately, every religion eventually gets contaminated by culture, politics, greed, and personal agenda. It all starts out with good intentions.  Individuals who have faith in God unite to form a community with like-minded people. They create a church, an institution that provides a meeting place and services for those who are seeking God. The church expands. Soon, the growth of the organization becomes the central focus. The resultant ‘churchianity’ is easy to package, market, and sell for profit.

Pure Christianity, without the add-ons, is not as palatable. It’s like having

100% cacao, when you are used to eating chocolate candy bars. You always thought you loved chocolate, but you discover how hard it is to swallow without the sugar.  Organic faith is hard to sell. Thus, it is repackaged with cultural additives and preservative traditions. This may be marketed as Christianity, but it is merely churchianity.

At the center of Christianity is Jesus. He taught us to follow His example. Even though He was a carpenter by trade, Jesus did not build churches. He didn’t accumulate wealth. He didn’t conform to social norms. He led a consecrated life of unconditional love and sacrifice. He asked us to trust Him, to embrace the mystery, and surrender ourselves to an incomprehensible God.

Pinterest Fails

“When a potter makes jars out of clay, doesn’t he have a right to use the same lump of clay to make one jar for decoration and another to throw garbage into? In the same way, even though God has the right to show his anger and his power, he is very patient with those on whom his anger falls, who are destined for destruction.” (Romans 9:21-22 NLT)

Pinterest projects and recipes are usually photographed artistically under perfect conditions. There is often a big gap between reality and the idealized versions portrayed on this website. That is why I find ‘pinterest fails’--photos of projects that don’t end up as they were intended--so funny. For example, kid-friendly cupcakes and cookies that are supposed to look like adorable animals--often end up looking like sinister, amorphous creatures.

Some Christians believe that God has predetermined everything, including if one is chosen to spend eternity in heaven or hell, before they are even born. They point to Romans 9:21-22, where the Apostle Paul compares God to a potter who decides what each of His creations will end up being.  The theology of predestination is a misinterpretation of these verses.

When we look at Scripture as a whole, we can see that we have a God who loves us sacrificially, shapes us patiently, and leads us gently. He lets us choose whether to follow Him. He is a potter who has perfect intentions for His creations; however, He is also responsive. Those who are pliable and yielding are molded according to God’s plans. Others who are stubborn and rebellious often end up misshapen--not because that was God’s intention all along, but because of their own poor choices. They are like Pinterest projects that look nothing like the original picture. God created human beings in His own image. We are meant to emulate Christ, to surrender to His plans, and to reflect His glory.

Counterfeit Happiness

“Christ's anointing teaches you the truth on everything you need to know about yourself and him, uncontaminated by a single lie. Live deeply in what you were taught...stay with Christ. Live deeply in Christ.” (1 John 2:27-28 MSG)

I was at an outdoor concert when I noticed a young lady with a group of her friends. She was laughing and dancing. Someone nearby remarked: “She seems to know how to have a good time!”  Later in the evening, I noticed her walking by herself into the parking lot. Her gait was unsteady. Drunk and alone, she was headed for trouble. I kept looking back at her until she was swallowed up by the darkness. I said a silent prayer for her safety.

A majority of individuals--regardless of socioeconomic class, religious identity, political affiliation, education, nationality, culture, race, or age--seem to confuse temporary highs with enjoyment of life. Their drug of choice might differ based on their environment and peers, but the patterns of addiction are similar. Intoxication is achieved through materialism, success, status, adulation, entertainment, thrills, vacations, food, sex, alcohol, or drugs. Numbness is preferred over awareness.

For those few who choose enlightenment over amusement, life can be costly as well as lonely. Investing in truth can be expensive. Counterfeit happiness is popular, and those who turn their backs on it are seen as odd. Sober-minded living goes against the herd and, thus, can be isolating. Most of us crave social acceptance, even if it is by those with superficial standards. This world is contaminated by lies. There is only one antidote:  to be anointed in truth.

We can either continue living shallow lives on the surface of this earth, or we can choose to live deeply in Christ. The latter requires us to turn our backs on worldly ideas of pleasure and popularity. We leave the darkness behind and step into God’s brightly lit dwelling. We move past the threshold and take a seat near the warm hearth. We are home, where we belong. Immersed in intimacy, we delight in knowing that we are accepted and cherished--not by the world, but by Christ.

Tug of War

“Those who are dominated by the sinful nature think about sinful things, but those who are controlled by the Holy Spirit think about things that please the Spirit. So letting your sinful nature control your mind leads to death. But letting the Spirit control your mind leads to life and peace.” (Romans 8:5-6 NLT)

There is a constant tug of war between our sinful nature and our Spirit nature. Humans are predisposed to egotism. Self-reliance, apart from God, leads to self-glorification. We dig in our heels and pull as hard as we can until we get our own way. What we fail to recognize is that this is not some game at an afternoon picnic; it is a tug of war for our souls.

Dependence on God requires us to oppose the pull of egocentrism. Each time we trust, thank, and praise God--it’s a tug in the right direction. When we are led by our Spirit nature, our minds are anchored in Christ. This enables us to get a firm grip on life. As we lean back in faith, our thoughts and behavior become aligned with a single purpose--pleasing and glorifying God above all else.

Remodeled Lives

“In his Son, Jesus, he personally took on the human condition, entered the disordered mess of struggling humanity in order to set it right once and for all.” (Romans 8:3 MSG)

Humanity, left to its own nature, is in a constant state of disintegration. Detached from the Spirit of God, our lives become like withering buildings--falling apart, turning to dust. Fortunately, Jesus personally bought this condemned building with His life savings. He entered into the disordered mess of struggling humanity in order to set it right once and for all.

Those who are remodeled by Christ no longer follow their sinful nature which led to disintegration. Instead, they are integrated--one with the Spirit. Once Christ takes up residence in us, living and breathing through us, we experience a life designed by the Spirit--open, spacious, and transformed.

Be a Blessing

The one who blesses others is abundantly blessed; those who help others are helped. (Proverbs 11:25 MSG)

A few days ago, a neighbor gave me a little, cast iron skillet. She was using it as a drip tray for a potted plant. When she saw me admiring it, she offered it to me. I was touched by this simple gift.  Earlier in the week, I offered some homemade food to a friend. I felt blessed by his gracious acceptance.

Every day, we all have myriads of opportunities to bless others. Sometimes it involves giving of ourselves; other times it requires us to graciously accept kindness from others. Neither the size nor the cost of our gift matters; but sincerity is essential. Generosity--when colored by ulterior motives to impress, manipulate, and curry favor is a sham. True kindness is authentic, vulnerable, and honoring to God.

How can each of us be a blessing today?

--Pray. Ask God to shine upon every name that pops into your head and for every individual who crosses your path.

--Pay attention to everything that is happening around you. Notice and acknowledge others, especially those who may be less visible.

--Reach out to anyone who may benefit from your companionship.

--Encourage those who are discouraged.

--Share your resources, talents, energy, experiences, and knowledge.

--Express love and appreciation.

--Serve those who cannot reciprocate.

--Care for the earth; plant trees for the birds, and flowers for the bees.

--Live consciously.

“Be generous with your lives. By opening up to others, you'll prompt people to open up with God.” (Matthew 5:16 MSG)

Beyond Labels

“We are transfigured much like the Messiah, our lives gradually becoming brighter and more beautiful as God enters our lives and we become like him.” (2 Corinthians 3:18 MSG)

One of my good friends is a home builder. One day, as I was visiting one of her construction sites, I noticed her pulling off labels from newly installed windows. She said that the longer those stickers stay on, the harder they are to get off. After a while, even if the labels are removed, the gooey residue remains--obscuring light and decreasing the clarity of the glass.

This made me think of some of the negative labels that have been part of my psyche for decades: nerdy, downer, anxious, risk-averse, weak, obsessive, bossy, loud, not good enough, jobless, selfish, indulgent...I have attempted to peel off some of these stickers, but the residue still remains, obscuring my true self.

When we submit to Christ, He removes anything that obscures God’s light from shining through us. Our faces reflect the brightness of His face. We are transfigured. Our lives gradually become brighter and more beautiful as God enters our lives and we become like him.

Pace of Faith

“Please, my lord, go ahead of your servant. We will follow slowly, at a pace that is comfortable...” (Genesis 33:14 NLT)

When running long distances with others, I notice it is difficult for me to run even thirty seconds faster or slower than my natural pace. If I push too much, I get fatigued quickly. If I go too slowly, monotony sets in. The best running partner for me is someone who is slightly faster, encouraging, and brings out the best in me.

I have noticed a similar trend in faith communities. It’s hard to relate to those who seem to have a more advanced level of faith than you do. Likewise, it can be dispiriting to always be in the company of those who are trailing behind.  Thus, understanding your pace of faith can be insightful. It helps you seek out others who may lead you by example, encouraging you to grow deeper and closer to God.

“Then you will not become spiritually dull and indifferent. Instead, you will follow the example of those who are going to inherit God's promises because of their faith and endurance.” (Hebrews 6:12 NLT)

Belt of Truth

“Stand your ground, putting on the belt of truth and the body armor of God's righteousness.” (Ephesians 6:14 MSG)

Back when clothing was more about function than fashion, men used to wear belts to hold up their pants. As clothes became tailored to fit, belts became an unnecessary, stylistic accessory. Belts can be used to cinch waists, to create an illusion of slimness; decorative belts can divert attention from expanding waistlines; expensive belts can be used as a status symbol; matching belts can make a person appear fashionable. Even those who do not follow current style trends may continue to wear belts, merely out of habit.

Religious faith can similarly be used as a stylistic accessory--to create illusions of piety, to divert attention from an excessive lifestyle, and as a means to promote one’s credibility, status, and social connections. Sometimes, faith is merely habitual, with no ulterior or spiritual motive. It is worn mindlessly, like an old, familiar belt that has become part of one’s dress code.

Functional faith is a belt of truth, holding up the garment of righteousness. It is practical and well-worn. We put it on daily and intentionally--fully aware that, without it, we would be vulnerable and exposed. This belt of truth girds our core of faith, secures any loose excess, and prepares us to do what what we are called to do.