eternity

He’s Got the Whole World in His Hands

~ mercyfortheday ~ Leave a comment

As we went to the polls on Tuesday, it was a given that not everyone would be pleased with the results. We had heard that this election could turn the nation in a far left spiral or maintain status quo a little longer. Which would it be? And now we know.

If I recall, just two short years ago we were hearing the same concerns. We were told then that the results of that presidential election would get the nation back on track or continue the slide down a very slippery slope. Both sides of the aisle believed the opposing side projected a dark path toward a dictatorship of sorts. We’ve heard similar language in this mid-term cycle.

But I have to say that, regardless of the election results, no one really walks away a winner. No one walks away unscathed. There is so much unrest and discord and distrust in political leaders today that election results only resolve one issue. Which party gets to be in charge for a few years.

Politicians make many promises while they’re on the campaign trail just to break them once elected. Not always, but many times. An R or D after a candidate’s name on a ballot doesn’t guarantee anything. We can’t place our hope in any one candidate. They will fail us. Miserably. Many people are greatly disillusioned and disappointed with both parties.

Both sides believe their side is right. Each believes their plans are better and they should be in control. Each side wants to set the tone of this nation for the next two years. Each wants to punish the leaders of the opposing party. One party never seems to get their act together to do just that thing, while the other party goes for the jugular before they’re even in charge. One party believes this country is in for a rough ride these next two years, and the other party is gloating and calling for payback.

And just for the record. There is evil and corruption in both political parties. There is abuse of power and authority, and there are under the table deals. Meetings unrecorded and under cover occur and most of us are unaware. Unqualified and unvetted people are placed in positions they should never be in. Some walk through doors that have been opened wide for them, while others break down the door and call it fair.

Many people voted in person. Many others voted early. And yet many opted out of their responsibility. Some people think their one little vote won’t do any good, so they refuse to vote. I’ve read that if every Christian voted, this country would be in an entirely different situation right now. Think about that.

What we have to know is that God is in control. He knows every vote that was counted. He knows of the depth of corruption in our country’s political system. He knows if election fraud is a widespread issue or not. He knows the hearts and plans of those in office and those newly elected. He knows the minutest details of the next two years and exactly what will play out.

If he wanted to, God could remove all evil with just the blink of an eye. He could snuff out all corruption with the flick of a wrist. He could allow only truth to be told and shutter all lies by just thinking about it. But he doesn’t. He gives us freedom to choose how we live.

God reigns over the nations; God sits on his holy throne. Psalm 47:8

If you’ve read your history books, you have to know there is a pattern of decline for all great nations. It’s just the way it is in this world. No country with super power status stays in that position forever.

Our great nation has had a great run of successes. Two hundred and fifty years is nothing to be ashamed of. But we’ve become complacent as a nation, and we assume things will continue to go well for us because we’re the most powerful nation on earth. As we can see, we’ve been sadly mistaken. We’ve forgotten to keep God as the head of state. We’ve replaced him with false gods. So, these election results are no surprise. This is what happens when God is left out of our society. When God is pushed away, he won’t demand his way.

What does all of this have to do with faith in God? What does this have to do with Christianity and the hope of the cross of Christ? Where is God when the nations falter? Why doesn’t he rescue us from the upheaval that poor political decisions cause? Well, the sun came up today. The world is still turning. God is still in charge, and he knows what’s going on.

If you’ve read the book of Daniel, you know that the nation of Israel (God’s chosen people) suffered a devastating loss. It was a political defeat of the ages when the Babylonian army besieged the city, and King Jehoiachin relinquished power to the enemy. The best of the best people of Israel were led away as captives and were sent to live in exile in Babylon. But while they were living there, the prophet Jeremiah instructed them to enjoy the wealth of the nation where they were exiled. Get married and raise families. Live your best life even under exile conditions. And he commanded them to pray for their new homeland, because the success of their homeland was their own success.

And that’s what we must do today. We must pray for the success of our elected leaders. We must pray for the success of our nation. Because in the success of our nation and our leaders, we will find success. It doesn’t mean we have to applaud and agree with their decisions. It doesn’t mean we have to fall in line with their agenda. But we must pray for the best for this nation. And we must pray that godly advisors surround them in their work.

But seek the welfare of the city where I have sent you into exile, and pray to the Lord on its behalf, for in its welfare you will find your welfare. Jeremiah 29:7

As today’s culture continues to morally and ethically slide down the slippery slope of radicalism, Christians today must continue to put on the full armor of God each day. We must be strong and courageous in living out our faith by never compromising truth. We know that the kingdom of Jesus Christ is unshakeable and will not fall, regardless of how shaky our world may be.

It’s time to be reminded that God is in control of the universe. He always has been, and he always will be. This is his world. And even if this election causes this country to descend into chaos, we believers in the God who reigns supreme over all the earth know that he is with us. He didn’t promise us an easy, carefree life. In fact, quite the opposite. He said we will be persecuted because of our faith. And we have to stop and wonder if that time could soon be upon us. We must be prepared to suffer when those who oppose biblical truths hold political power.

It’s time to dig deep into the Word of God and firm up our faith. It’s time to study to show ourselves approved by the God we say we serve. Regardless of which party is in power, now is the time for all people to call on God. We must go about our days doing the work set before us, all the while trusting God and his providence. He is with us and he is for us. Let’s not be against him.

What we must take from this election cycle is this. God knows the future. He humbles the proud; even elected officials. And it may just be our time to experience a bit of God’s judgment as our country continues to push him away. It is time for believers to search for God’s peace when earthly peace is unattainable. We could be entering a season of turmoil like we’ve never experienced before.

God is still sovereign, and he rules the nations. Not a single thing misses his eye. And we can fully trust him and his timing. May his name be praised.

For kingship belongs to the Lord, and he rules over the nations. Psalm 22:28

Let the heavens be glad, and let the earth rejoice, and let them say among the nations, “The Lord reigns!” 1 Chronicles 16:31

The Lord has established his throne in the heavens, and his kingdom rules over all. Psalm 103:19

The Story of God is True

~ mercyfortheday ~ Leave a comment

It was Wednesday night, and I sat in the sanctuary beside one of my Awana kids. It was lesson time for the Sparks (K-2). Our leader was telling the story of salvation and Jesus dying on the cross for our sins. Suddenly, this first grader turned to me and asked in an almost startled voice, “Is the story of God true?” Yes. Yes, Graham, the story of God is true. You mean it’s real? Yes, it real. It’s not fiction? No, it really happened. He was amazed and excited. Apparently, the reality of what he was hearing had just sunk in for the very first time. Hopefully, all the puzzle pieces of the Bible verses and lessons he learned in Awana last year are coming together. And, hopefully soon, he’ll make the decision to become a Christ follower.

This exchange reminded me of the necessity of teaching Bible verses and stories to children. Kids love stories, and they love listening to them over and over. And when they learn that the story really happened. That it’s true. It suddenly takes on a whole new dimension. It takes on real meaning. And they will relive that story in their minds time and time again. And they will tell others.

When kids never have an opportunity to read the Bible or to even hear the Bible stories, they are missing out on so much history and lifelong lessons on morality, ethics, obedience, sin and salvation. They don’t know that God created the earth and all plants and animals and humans in seven days. They don’t know how Daniel survived an overnight stay in a den of lions, because people who hated him wanted him out of their lives. They don’t know that David killed a giant named Goliath with a stone and slingshot. They don’t know that Noah built an ark and put two of every kind of animal in it, along with his family, because a flood was going to cover the entire earth for many, many days. They don’t know that Jonah disobeyed God and was swallowed by a whale, just to be spewed out of his mouth three days later. They don’t know that God’s only son, Jesus, was born to a virgin named Mary. They don’t know that Jesus was put on trial, nailed to a cross and died in order to forgive our sins when we repented. They don’t that Jesus chose twelve men to be his disciples and spread the good news of salvation. They don’t know that Jesus is coming to gather his followers so they can spend eternity together. And there are so many more stories the kids will never know. Stories like the Sermon on the Mount. The miracles of Jesus. Saul’s conversion and missionary trips. John the Baptist preparing the way for Jesus’ ministry. They don’t know about all the prophecies that have been told, and that many have come to pass and the remaining ones will in good time. They don’t know what they’re missing.

Train up a child in the way he should go; even when he is old he will not depart from it. Proverbs 22:6

You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your might. And these words that I command you today shall be on your heart. You shall teach them diligently to your children, and shall talk of them when you sit in your house, and when you walk by the way, and when you lie down, and when you rise. Deuteronomy 6:5-7

We will not hide them from their children, but tell to the coming generation the glorious deeds of the Lord, and his might, and the wonders that he has done. He established a testimony in Jacob and appointed a law in Israel, which he commanded our fathers to teach to their children, that the next generation might know them, the children yet unborn, and arise and tell them to their children, so that they should set their hope in God and not forget the works of God, but keep his commandments. Psalm 78:4-7

How will kids know that they need to repent of their sins if no one tells them? How will they ever hear the Good News of salvation if they’re never in church or with followers of Christ? Who will tell them if their parents choose not to attend church or read the Bible to them? How will they know? And how will they pass down the need for salvation to their own children if they don’t hear it first?

How then will they call on him in whom they have not believed? And how are they to believe in him of whom they have never heard? And how are they to hear without someone preaching? And how are they to preach unless they are sent? As it is written, “How beautiful are the feet of those who preach the good news!” Romans 10:14-15

And we wonder why the world is so topsy turvy. We wonder why today’s culture believes dangerous ideologies. We wonder why people are resorting to horrible crimes and violent tendencies. We wonder why there is an abundance of evil and corruption in the world. We wonder why people don’t know the story of God. Perhaps they’ve heard it and rejected it. Perhaps no one has ever shared the Good News with them. Perhaps it’s time to do so. Perhaps it’s time to wake up and move beyond the fear of being rejected by our unbelieving peers and family members and present the Truth to them before it’s too late. Perhaps it’s time for Christians to get out of their comfort zone and start sharing the Good News.

So yes, Graham. The story of God is true. It actually happened. All of it. And you can choose to accept it or not. It’s your choice. But know this. If you reject it, you will not spend eternity with God. But if you accept Jesus Christ as your Savior and follow him, you will be with him for eternity. So choose wisely.

But as for you, continue in what you have learned and have firmly believed, knowing from whom you learned it and how from childhood you have been acquainted with the sacred writings, which are able to make you wise for salvation through faith in Christ Jesus. 2 Timothy 3:14-15

When Your Heart Skips A Beat

~ mercyfortheday ~ Leave a comment

What crosses your mind when someone brings up their faith or Christianity or their church service last Sunday? Are you all in for the conversation, or do you try to duck out and spare yourself some grief? Does your heart skip a beat when someone mentions that God is good or that He has answered their prayer in a great and mighty way? Do you want to be swallowed up by the earth at that very moment because you’re uncomfortable with the subject? Or would you be genuinely interested in what they had to say?

Many people, Christian or not, try to avoid conversations about the Bible or church or faith in general. Perhaps they think they’re not educated enough to speak about those issues. Perhaps they don’t have faith and don’t want others to know. Perhaps they are a believer, but don’t want others to know. Some people just want to avoid the topic, no matter what.

If you had been alive during the time of Jesus’ birth, you would have been in one of two camps. Either your heart skipped a beat when you heard the news, because you knew this long awaited event was the best thing that had ever happened to mankind. You knew this was the event that had been promised so many years ago and it had finally happened in your lifetime. This was incredible news! Or. Your heart skipped a beat because you were enraged that someone, and of all things a tiny baby, was said to be the Savior of the world. You knew you would fight this announcement at all costs. Because it just couldn’t be true. How could it be? A baby is no savior. Who cares about the stories of the star in the east and the prophesies of a Messiah. This baby is nothing special, and you were determined to squelch all rumors that he was.

And here’s what we know today. The good news of Jesus Christ’s birth, death and resurrection still causes a mixed reaction. Multitudes experience a life-changing event when they repent of their sins and choose to follow Him. They know their lives have been changed, and they want to let others know. On the other hand, there are many others who reject the good news of salvation and want nothing to do with it. They reject it outright and oppose it as if it were the kiss of death. They will oppose all talk of the subject.

And here’s what we also know. We each have a choice as to how we will handle the news of Christ’s offer of salvation. We can accept it and follow the path to eternal life with him. Or we can reject it, which means we will wallow in sin. And living a sinful life will look different for everyone. The life of someone not following Christ may be very successful and full of material possessions. They may achieve at the highest level of corporate success. They may be able to afford all the latest gadgets and toys and vacations and pleasures that money can afford. But they reject any discussion about the Savior of the world. Success in this life doesn’t mean that someone isn’t a follower of Christ, but it also doesn’t mean they are. And just because someone doesn’t live a life that is questionable doesn’t mean they are living forgiven.

Choose this day whom you will serve. Joshua 24:15

God isn’t afraid of our choices, but he knows the end result of what we choose. After all, he allows his angels to choose and a host of them chose unwisely. And he’s not afraid of skepticism or doubt. That’s normal in life. But when we choose to challenge him, we need to know exactly who and what we’re dealing with. When we choose to ignore him, we need to know the full extent of the choice we’ve just made.

I want to be careful when I say this, but the rejection of Christ is an acceptance of the evil one himself, Satan. Many who reject Christ may say they’re not Satan lovers, but they’ve rejected Christ. So who do they think they’re following if it’s not Christ? I know. It’s an uncomfortable thought, and it may sound harsh. Most people who don’t accept the teachings of Christ don’t claim to be Satan worshippers. They don’t claim to follow the leader of the underworld. They may believe they are self-made and self-fulfilled and don’t need God in their lives. They don’t know the capabilities of the one who thought he could out-God God. They don’t know that he lost in his quest of self importance and pride to de-throne God. And that’s exactly why he’s no longer living in the presence of God Almighty. They don’t know that God threw him and his host of angels out of heaven and has doomed them to an eternity in hell. His name was Lucifer, and he was once a high ranking angel. Now he’s known as Satan and is the leader of darkness.

Now war arose in heaven, Michael and his angels fighting against the dragon. And the dragon and his angels fought back, but he was defeated, and there was no longer any place for them in heaven. And the great dragon was thrown down, that ancient serpent, who is called the devil and Satan, the deceiver of the whole world—he was thrown down to the earth, and his angels were thrown down with him. And I heard a loud voice in heaven, saying, “Now the salvation and the power and the kingdom of our God and the authority of his Christ have come, for the accuser of our brothers has been thrown down, who accuses them day and night before our God. And they have conquered him by the blood of the Lamb and by the word of their testimony, for they loved not their lives even unto death. Revelation 12:7-11

How you are fallen from heaven, O shining star, son of the morning! You have been thrown down to the earth, you who destroyed the nations of the world. For you said to yourself, ‘I will ascend to heaven and set my throne above God’s stars. I will preside on the mountain of the gods far away in the north. I will climb to the highest heavens and be like the Most High.’ Instead, you will be brought down to the place of the dead, down to its lowest depths. Isaiah 14:12-15

Many call themselves Christians, yet they haven’t repented of their sins. But Christianity is a humbling act of confession and turning from all sinful behavior. It’s a commitment to living a life in fellowship with Jesus Christ. There is no middle ground. If we haven’t chosen Christ as our Lord and Savior, he will not recognize us on the day we stand in judgment before him.

Then he will say to those on his left, ‘Depart from me, you cursed, into the eternal fire prepared for the devil and his angels.’ Matthew 25:41

In Joshua 24:14-28, Joshua implored the Israelites to choose to serve the Lord, and they promised they would. He knew exactly what punishment would lie ahead for them if they turned their backs on God. He told them plainly that he and his household would serve the Lord, and they must choose who they would serve. Just as Joshua chose and all of Israel had to choose, so does everyone else even today. Who do you choose to follow? One more question. When you’re face to face with God on judgment day, will your heart skip a beat because you’re being ushered into his presence for eternity or because you’re not?

For everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved. Romans 10:13

Where is Your Treasure Stored?

~ mercyfortheday ~ Leave a comment

I pulled in the driveway after getting home from church last Sunday. I noticed a new four-wheeler sitting in the yard of the house next door. And it’s bright blue. Brand spanking new. A young man from the neighborhood bought the house a year ago, and is remodeling it with his dad. It’s a great father son project, but the house is still unlivable a year later. Who knows when he’ll actually move in. But it’s this new “vehicle” that got my attention. The young man already owns four vehicles, and he’s only twenty-five years old. Why does he need so many cars/trucks/jeeps/whatever they are? I get it. He loves cars. He’s an auto mechanic. And now he’s bought this toy. If he ever gets to move into this house, he could walk to his parent’s house. I walk by their house on a regular basis, and it’s not that far away. Maybe a block on a good day.

Here’s the thing. I’ve noticed his “need” for toys comes honestly. That’s how he’s grown up. His parents own a very modest home. There could have been room on their lot to build a garage for their two vehicles, but instead they built a barn of sorts that houses two of their son’s vehicles which he never drives. And who knows what else is stored in there. The son works on other people’s cars in his off hours in that garage, and there’s room to store other tools and toys. And they have three, yes three, sheds on their small property. Each of these are packed full of things. Multiple air conditioners. Tubs filled with who knows what. Tools of all sorts. Tiling tools that have been used only once. And the dad has his own four-wheeler. Plus, they have a camper in the back yard. They also have a tractor mower and multiple other lawn tools. They also own at least two trailers to haul equipment. One is an open bed, and the other is enclosed. The parents also built a cabin in the southern part of the state where they go to relax and unwind. Needless to say, they’ve spent a ton of money on things. Some of these things have been used only once and then set aside. Others are used on a regular basis. They have every kind of toy a man could want. And now the son is following in his father’s footsteps.

I just don’t get it. I often tell myself that I hope they’ve saved as much money for retirement as they have spent on needless hobbies and interests. But I don’t know. I’ll probably never know. Maybe the dad has a good pension that’s he’s counting on. I’ll never know that, either. I don’t need to know those things. And these are not wealthy people. They most likely aren’t college educated, not that one needs to have a college degree in order to be highly compensated. But they don’t live as if they’re highly compensated. Or, do they? I hope they’re not deeply in debt, but I’ll also never be able to confirm that. I definitely don’t want to know if that’s the case. But I watch and notice these things, and I’m just in terrified awe of their spending habits.

I wonder about this family. Do they ever step back and just look at all the earthly possessions their hard money has bought for them? Do they fondle and admire it? Do they worship all those manmade objects that sit used or mostly unused? Is that what brings them fulfillment? Do they ever contribute money to a charitable cause? Oh. I know they willingly loan out their equipment to friends and family. I’ve been the recipient of their generosity. But in the whole scheme of things, do they think more about what they can do for themselves over what they can do for others with that paycheck they get? I just wonder.

For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also. Matthew 6:21

Yes, it’s true that we do need to save money for emergencies and retirement. For vacations and extracurricular expenses. It isn’t wise to spend every cent of our expendable income on fun and unnecessary entertainment. As Solomon says in Ecclesiastes, there is a season for everything. And that includes saving money. We must be wise in how we make money, spend it and then save it.

For everything there is a season, and a time for every matter under heaven. Ecclesiastes 3:1

Earthly treasures will moth, rust and decay, of that we can be sure. Also, thieves can break in and steal every last material treasure we have stored up on this earth. It’s a known fact. Nothing is safe if it isn’t protected and stored correctly. And I must say, these “treasures” that the neighbor has stored in all his sheds aren’t necessarily bad. I’m sure, at one point, they were deemed necessary. But now they sit stored away never being used. The man has told me that he has bought items and then used them only once. And he keeps them lying around. Just in case.

Do not lay up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy and where thieves break in and steal, but lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust destroys and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also. Matthew 6:19-21

But I’ll tell you what these treasures or toys or whatever you want to call them can’t do for this family. These “things” can’t bring peace in times of trouble. They can’t give eternal life to the souls of these family members. Sure. They can be sold and the money used to help someone in need or pay an unexpected bill. But that’s not what’s happening.

I wonder if this family has ever considered storing up treasures in heaven. Treasures that will not doom them to an eternity in hell. Have they considered the eternal cost of placing their bets on material possessions on this earth? I don’t know. We haven’t had those conversations.

We spend too much time pursuing the things we think will make us happy or fulfilled without considering our need to pursue God.  Toys and earthly treasures will only fulfill us for a short time, and then we’re on the hunt for the next big thing. But the lifelong pursuit of a relationship with Jesus Christ provides a lasting fulfillment that keeps getting richer and stronger with each breath we take. And it isn’t dependent on the size of our bank account or the number of stuffed sheds on our property. It’s the steady building of a close relationship with our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. It’s in the daily decision to obey our Heavenly Father and doing his will. If you haven’t done so, repent of your sins today. While you still have time. And then begin storing eternal treasures that will never rust, rot or decay.

For what does it profit a man to gain the whole world and forfeit his soul? Mark 8:36

The Waiting Room

~ mercyfortheday ~ Leave a comment

My chiropractor appointment was scheduled for Monday morning. I arrived a little early and I could see several people in the waiting room, so I waited five minutes before leaving the car. And once I walked into the doctor’s office, I realized the waiting room was full. It never is this busy. As I sat and waited with everyone else, I noticed that everyone had their heads bowed to their phones. There were no conversations to be heard. The man sitting near me was playing Solitaire on his phone. One woman was texting. Who knows what the others waiting were looking at. Then when I was leaving the appointment, I noticed that the waiting room was still very full. Monday was a very busy day for the chiropractor.

On Tuesday, I found myself in another doctor’s waiting room. This room wasn’t quite so full, not only were the people at the check-in desk busily helping patients arriving and leaving, but they were also taking phone calls. And when I was checking out, I was told their computers were on edge that morning. There’s never a dull moment, even when we’re on hold or in a waiting room.

I was back at the chiropractor’s office on Wednesday morning. Busy again. There were nine people ahead of me. Every appointment was running late. The doctor will be out of the office next week, so he apparently had to see next week’s patients this week. His office is only open three days a week to begin with. From the scuttle in the waiting room, Tuesday wasn’t as busy a day for him as the two days I happened to be there. That’s my luck.

Then on Thursday morning, I had a massage. Once again, I sat in a waiting room. This room was quiet as I sat watching the Pilates instructors preparing for their upcoming appointments. Fortunately, the massage was worth the wait.

Have you ever found yourself in a waiting room where you were kept waiting far longer than you expected? Oh. It may not be a brick and mortar waiting room. It may be that God is not answering your prayers. Or his timing isn’t going as quickly as you think it should. Or the problem is still hanging on when you want it resolved immediately. Waiting is a hard thing. And timing is everything to those who are on a time clock.

Now, dear friends, do not let this one thing escape your notice, that a single day is like a thousand years with the Lord and a thousand years are like a single day. 2 Peter 3:8

This could be your season of waiting. It’s your in between time of what was and what could be or might never be. Are you prepared for it? Do you know how to prepare, or can you? And do you know exactly what you’re waiting for? Just remind yourself when the waiting gets tough that God knows what he’s doing. He won’t lead you astray.

You’ve heard the saying “hurry up and wait.” That’s what we do. And we’re just not happy when our time is controlled by someone else or something beyond our control. The thing is. We have to learn to trust God’s speed. He’s never too slow or too quick. He’s right on time. We just don’t always see it that way. But his ways are perfect. And at times his ways are unexpected.

Think of the stories in the Bible where people waited and waited. Abraham and Sarah were old when they became parents to their son, Isaac. They waited twelve years after God had promised they would have him. And consider the Israelites who were led by God into the wilderness, instead of straight to Canaan. Sure. The delay was due to their disobedience. But forty years is a long time to wait. It was a death sentence for many. The children of Israel who were taken captive to Babylon were held there against their will for seventy years. Some never returned home. And consider Zechariah and Elizabeth. Both were in their later years of life when they became first-time parents to their promised son, John.

Then there’s the Promised Messiah. His birth fulfilled the promise God made in Genesis 3:15 after the fall of Adam and Eve. This promise was made progressively throughout the Old Testament. In many different instances, God spoke through prophets about the coming Messiah, who would be the Savior of the world. And when that promise was finally fulfilled, many did not believe that a small babe born in Bethlehem would be the one to die on the cross for their sins. But he did.

And I will put hostility between you and the woman and between your offspring and her offspring; her offspring will attack your head, and you will attack her offspring’s heel. Genesis 3:15

And now we find ourselves waiting for the promised return of Jesus. Oh. We’ve been waiting a very long time, and we don’t know when his return date is. Actually, he doesn’t know the day or time, either. Only our Heavenly Father knows. We need to make sure that at the appointed time we are in the correct waiting room for eternity with Christ. That’s one room that should be packed full and overflowing. Are you in your seat, ready and waiting?

The Lord is not slow concerning his promise, as some regard slowness, but is being patient toward you, because he does not wish for any to perish but for all to come to repentance. But the day of the Lord will come like a thief; when it comes, the heavens will disappear with a horrific noise, and the celestial bodies will melt away in a blaze, and the earth and every deed done on it will be laid bare. 2 Peter 3:9-10

Be Still And Know

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We have very little control of our days. You know that, right? How many times have you planned out your day and think you’re good to go when out of nowhere something beyond your control happens. You may get in your car to run errands and the car won’t start. You’re in the checkout line at the grocery store because you need just a few things when you realize your bank account can’t support those few things. You get a call from the school because your child is unexpectedly running a fever while you’re preparing for the work presentation of a lifetime. Your dog has an unexpected, unexplained health emergency that signals end of life is near. Your spouse calls you in the middle of the day and announces he is no longer employed. And you realize you’ve lost control of what you thought was a normal day. The list could go on and on.

We have less time than we think. Life flies by faster than we can even imagine. I ask myself how I am already at an age where I qualify for Medicare. How am I so close to “celebrating” my 50 year high school reunion? I remember when my parents celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary. My mom said that she thought only old people were married for 50 years. Obviously, she didn’t know how they had gotten to that monumental moment in their marriage so quickly. The years fly by, and I bet I’m safe to say that most of us don’t accomplish as much in our lifetime as we thought or hoped we would. Our dreams die pretty soon after they’re hatched. Our relationships fizzle because we don’t give them the time of day. Our faith dries up because we forget to tend and water it. And time goes on.

I was reading an article about friendship this week. One of the statements in the sentence stopped me cold in my tracks. The author was talking about how we can’t just plan our lives and expect everything to fall in line. Life has, as she put it, “unplanned contingencies.” Isn’t that the truth?

I’ve read the Bible verse that truthfully opposes the profound statement I found, but I never flipped the switch to point it at myself. Someone did just that and it’s brilliant. Oh. I’m sure others may have thought of this by now and perhaps I have, as well. Here is the profound statement I read in the friendship article, and I wish I had penned it first.

Be still and know that you are not God.

Sounds simple, huh? The problem is that we all try to play God at some point in our lives. Some realize it’s a moot point and bow to his leading, while others press on determined to take life and make it bow to their every whim. We want to be God of our own lives so we can run the show. It just doesn’t work that way, even though we may put all our effort into it. We can’t take God’s sovereignty from him.

Be still, and know that I am God! Psalms 46:10

We can make our plans, but the Lord determines our steps. Proverbs 16:9

We can find calm in the storms of life, even during the ebb and flow when uncertainty reigns. Because of God’s sovereignty, which means that he is in complete control at all times, we can trust his plan. Oh sure. We can attempt to change it and fall flat on our faces. Other times, it may seem that our way is actually good. But in the end, God reigns supreme and he influences all of life. Regardless of what we believe, God governs all things. And our uncertain times are the moments when we must cling to him as if we’re on a life raft in a swift moving, out-of-control current.

I wonder if God’s enemies sit in terror at the mention of his name. I wonder if they realize that they will be beaten at their own game. Because for one thing. God isn’t playing games. He’s omniscient. He knows everything. And God’s people, those who love and revere him, have nothing to fear. God is on the throne at all times. He has entrusted this earth to mankind, and he sees how we manage it. Or manage it poorly, many would say. He sees the mess we’re in and he’s waiting patiently for more people to turn to him. He sees us in our moments of uncertainty and allows us to live through them. The tests of life are what mold us spiritually, emotionally and mentally. God is completely aware when our lives take an unexpected turn, and he will be our refuge in that time. Life doesn’t have to run smoothly in order for it to be a good life.

I saw a saying on a poster years ago that has stuck with me. There is one God. You are not Him. We just don’t want to admit that we aren’t in control of our lives and that someone bigger and higher and more worthy makes our world turn. God has always existed. There is no beginning or end to him, and there never will be. He is the Master of the universe. We just need to trust him.

The secret things belong to the Lord our God, but the things that are revealed belong to us and to our children forever, that we may do all the words of this law. Deuteronomy 29:29

He has put eternity into man’s heart, yet so that he cannot find out what God has done from the beginning to the end. Ecclesiastes 3:11

What then shall we say to these things? If God is for us, who can be against us? Romans 8:31

Your kingdom come, your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. Matthew 6:10

Yours, O Lord, is the greatness and the power and the glory and the victory and the majesty, for all that is in the heavens and in the earth is yours. Yours is the kingdom, O Lord, and you are exalted as head above all. Both riches and honor come from you, and you rule over all. In your hand are power and might, and in your hand it is to make great and to give strength to all. And now we thank you, our God, and praise your glorious name. 1 Chronicles 29:11-13

Mouse in the House

~ mercyfortheday ~ Leave a comment

We have a mouse problem in our house. Yes, we’ve seen mice. It seems they like to taunt us, running to and fro throughout the living room as we sit and watch. We hear them feasting on the poison bait that we’ve set out for them. If we’re lucky, we’ll find the dead bodies the next morning. Sometimes we do, sometimes we don’t. I’m thankful that we haven’t noticed any bad odors, but I wonder where they go to die if not on my living room floor.

But now I’m hoping we’ve turned a corner for the good. I don’t want to be braggadocious, but we may have found a solution to keep our house rodent free. We’ve discovered a product that is supposed to repel all rodents with a high frequency sound that isn’t heard by humans. The first night these night lights were plugged in, we heard a bit of mouse noise but didn’t see any mice. I want to say that so far it seems to be working. We’re hoping to keep the winning streak going.

The problem with the mice is that we don’t know how they’re getting into the house. We’ve seen evidence of them in the kitchen, and we’ve seen them dead and alive in the living room. Oh. We had the same problem last year and never figured it out. But this year, we’ve already seen more mice in one month than we did all last winter. That’s a problem in my book. We did plug one hole in the kitchen with steel wool, so hopefully that problem is solved. But we have no idea how they are getting into the living room.

I walked into one room the other day, and I thought I noticed a bad odor. It smelled like a rotting carcass. It’s rather faint and intermittent, so I’m not sure if it’s real or imagined. If it’s real, then the evidence is hidden and I’ll have to find it. I’m not looking forward to that. I’ve started an investigation, but I haven’t found anything. I’m afraid to do a thorough search, because this is one time I don’t really want to find what I’m looking for.

I can’t say that our house is free of mice. It may take some time and some waiting. We’ll have to watch and look for evidence. Or maybe we’ll hear a mouse but not see one. It’s a bit of a wait and see time for us right now. Time will tell if these new magical night lights work long term.

Then just yesterday morning, as I was walking to the kitchen I saw it. A dead mouse near the front door. At least it was dead. That’s what I tell myself. When we installed the repellant night lights, I knew we might need to get a few more to thoroughly block the mice. Now I know where I need to place a few more. I’m glad they found the new treasure trove of poison traps in the laundry room that did the work. But my goal is complete eradication of these pests. I don’t want them lurking anywhere in my house.

I also noticed a couple of days ago that the poison trap I had set out near the front door last year was empty. It wasn’t touched last year, but I guess the mice are hungry this year. I need to replenish my supply of bait.

Sin is no longer your master, for you no longer live under the requirements of the law. Instead, you live under the freedom of God’s grace. Romans 6:14

When we repent of our sins and surrender our lives to Christ, we are free from sin. The burden of carrying the weight of unforgiven sins has left us. We are free. But here’s the thing. We can’t keep on sinning. We must turn our back on any sins that had a stranglehold on us and walk away from that life. Otherwise, we’re like the mice that keep returning. We don’t need to return to our old way of life, because we live by another standard. We live by biblical standards and beliefs once we’ve rejected sin. We can’t just dodge sin. We must reject all acts of sin in our lives.

As new believers, we need to put barriers in our life to keep us from veering back to sin. We’re living a different life now. In this new forgiven life, we’re now living under the crucifixion of Christ.

As for me, may I never boast about anything except the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ. Because of that cross, my interest in this world has been crucified, and the world’s interest in me has also died. Galatians 6:14

Just as I’m unsure yet if I’m smelling a rotting mouse carcass, sin can sneak in and entice us when we least expect it. The thing about sin is that we can’t wait to sniff it out. We must remove it immediately before it takes hold in our lives. Oh. We’ll notice the odor all right, because it doesn’t come off as a fine fragrance. It’s rotten to the core. And now that I know the mice have found a new path of travel in my house, I need to button down that area with more nightlights to ward them off. The same goes for my spiritual life. I need to equip myself every day with the full armor of God. Otherwise, a temptation to sin could catch me off guard.

A final word: Be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. Put on all of God’s armor so that you will be able to stand firm against all strategies of the devil. 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. Therefore, put on every piece of God’s armor so you will be able to resist the enemy in the time of evil. Then after the battle you will still be standing firm. Stand your ground, putting on the belt of truth and the body armor of God’s righteousness. For shoes, put on the peace that comes from the Good News so that you will be fully prepared. In addition to all of these, hold up the shield of faith to stop the fiery arrows of the devil. Put on salvation as your helmet, and take the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God. Ephesians 6:10-17

Most of us are not consistent spiritually because we are more concerned about being consistent externally. ~Oswald Chambers

Do not let sin control the way you live; do not give in to sinful desires. Do not let any part of your body become an instrument of evil to serve sin. Instead, give yourselves completely to God, for you were dead, but now you have new life. So use your whole body as an instrument to do what is right for the glory of God. Sin is no longer your master, for you no longer live under the requirements of the law. Instead, you live under the freedom of God’s grace. Romans 6:12-14

Pickleball Drills

~ mercyfortheday ~ Leave a comment

I signed up to take another pickleball class. Call me crazy. This class was for intermediate players. Some people in the class had taken it multiple times, which tells me that they’re serious about their pickleball. I enjoy playing as a hobby, but I don’t see it overtaking my life. It’s a fun way to stay active. But some people I’ve met take this game way too seriously. And now I’m in a class with them. Talk about intimidating. Fortunately, the instructor assigns a group of four or five people to each court. Then we stay with our same group that day. So I haven’t had to play against the “good” players. Oh. Some of the ones I played against were good and had a bent toward being serious about their game. Then there were people like me. We’re just there to learn more, improve our game and have fun.

There are six indoor courts with a different drill set up on each court. The participants are assigned a specific court to start on and then rotate to the next court and so on every fifteen minutes. After the sixth drill, each group plays a short game. It’s a good set up. The time goes quickly, and some drills are more complicated than others. Everyone has an opportunity to practice each drill multiple times in their allotted fifteen minutes. Each instructor gives individual feedback along the way, as needed. It’s still intimidating, but it’s good to gain more in depth knowledge of the game.

As I’ve regularly played pickleball and taken classes throughout the past few months, I can say I’ve seen a bit of improvement in my playing. I’m still not great. I even hesitate to say I’m at an intermediate level, but who’s asking. I enjoy playing and getting some exercise. I need to stay active as I progress through these older years of life.

Here’s what I’ve noticed about other players. They come in all ages and sizes. Some choose to play every day. Others take one class and then don’t play very often. There’s an old saying that goes something like this. You get out of something what you put into it. And it’s true. I talked to one player last week who said she was embarrassed to say that she learned to play well over a year ago. But she hasn’t played regularly after that initial class. I could tell that her playing skill was similar to mine, whereas the woman who has been playing regularly for two years and has taken multiple classes plays at a much more advanced level.

During these classes, I’ve realized I had developed some bad habits in my game. The drills I was practicing were an attempt to break me of those poor moves I had adopted. It was painful to have to relearn new methods of play and to unlearn the old, easy and incorrect moves. It would have been much easier to continue to play poorly and complain about my bad pickleball moves than to unlearn them and relearn the correct moves. But I’m persevering and seeing improvement.

But grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. To him be the glory both now and to the day of eternity. 2 Peter 3:18

I’ve noticed that just as in the effort someone puts into their pickleball skills, the same type of growth spurts and struggles also appear in a person’s spiritual life. Once a person becomes a Christian, they need to take steps to grow their faith and their relationship with God. We can’t just confess our sins and then do nothing else with our faith for the remainder of our days. We’ve just started the most important relationship of our lives, and there is work to do. Oh. Works won’t get us into heaven. I’m not saying that. I’m saying that we need to spend time getting to know God, and there are actions we need to take to do that.

The same steps that go into building a relationship with someone else applies to deepening our walk with God. These steps are rather simple, but we seem to avoid or ignore them. They may take a little bit of our time, which we deem so important. And time is valuable. But so are our souls. Some say marriage seems like an eternity, with all the ups and downs of a marital relationship. But true eternity is forever. And once we cross over the divide between our earthly life and death, we’re in eternity forever. So, we must choose today to strengthen our relationship with God to the best of our ability so we can have an amazing eternity with him.

Here are some simple steps to drawing closer to God. Read and study the Bible. Pray. Attend church. Build friendships with godly people. Memorize Bible verses. Join a small group to study the Bible, pray and fellowship together. Find a mentor who has walked their faith journey for years. And we should also share our faith with others.

The thing is. The pickleball instructors were once beginner players, just as I am. Along the way, they committed themselves to practice and drills over and over again. They played the game on a regular basis and didn’t quit when things got tough. And now they’re seasoned players and are coaching newbies like me.

The same goes for my spiritual life. I need to see improvement in my words and actions and thoughts. I need to see a renewing in the way I view the world. I must align all of my beliefs with biblical standards. If I’m going to say that God is the ultimate authority in my life, then I must bow my will to him and submit my all ways to him. I must run my desires through a biblical sieve. Do they pass the test of holy living or not? Oh. It won’t be easy, and I must be willing to bend and break. My will must not be above God’s will in anything I do or say. It’s all about submission to my heavenly Father.

Get rid of all bitterness, rage, anger, harsh words, and slander, as well as all types of evil behavior. Instead, be kind to each other, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, just as God through Christ has forgiven you. Ephesians 4:31-32

Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect. Romans 12:2

And then, once we’ve walked the baby steps and our faith has matured, it’s time for us to share the wealth. We can mentor and disciple other believers in their own faith journey. We can walk with other believers in their path of growth in Jesus Christ. We don’t need to walk this walk of faith alone. We need to come alongside others, just as our mentors walked with us through our journey. We must do the journey of faith with fellow believers. We’re not in this alone.

Therefore, as you received Christ Jesus the Lord, so walk in him, rooted and built up in him and established in the faith, just as you were taught, abounding in thanksgiving. Colossians 2:6-7

Facelift

~ mercyfortheday ~ Leave a comment

A woman who has grown famous by pushing her daughters into fame has admitted to having her second facelift. She’ll be seventy soon, and I must say she looks beautiful. There are no more wrinkles on that pretty face of hers. Oh. Her first facelift was fifteen years ago, so it was time for a refresh, or so she says. And she admits that not everyone who is aging will go this route, but this is her way of aging gracefully. She goes under the knife to age gracefully. Think about that for a minute. But then. She’s worth millions or maybe billions, so she can do whatever she wants with the money she has earned by offering up her daughters to fame and fortune. Apparently, it’s working.

As everyone on this earth will face death, so too will this woman. Hopefully, that won’t happen anytime soon, but she isn’t invincible. She is continuing to age regardless of her efforts to hide it. Oh sure. She can hide behind her pretty smooth face and tell the world she’s aging gracefully. But she’s also had a hip replaced. Who knows what other health related issues she lives with that are kept under lock and key. But really. We don’t need to know her medical history. And now we know what we don’t need to know. Oh. Many suspected this last surgery. When you compare photos of her from earlier this year to her new photo shoot, there is an obvious difference. She’s proud of the way she looks. I guess she thinks she earned it. After all, her definition of aging gracefully seems to be working well for her.

And. She’s trying to profit off of her new look. She’s had t-shirts printed up by her son’s company to sell to women who want to be like her. There will be those who buy the shirt and wear it proudly. And some will probably be inspired to undergo unnecessary surgery, too.

This woman can have all the surgeries she wants, but underneath that smooth veneer she is still aging. Surgeries can only do so much to help her age gracefully. The cut of the knife won’t change her age. It will make her look like an older woman who’s trying to look younger. An older woman who’s afraid to accept the natural beauty in a wrinkled face or sagging body parts or stretchy skin. It happens to all of us. She wants to look as young and fresh as her daughters. Some people say she now looks like them. And others say she choreographs her life to be photo-ready at all times.

But does she know that keeping up with youth comes at a price. And I’m not just talking about a financial price. Does she still have any elasticity left in her skin, or was it all pulled too tight? She can probably afford anything money can buy, thanks to being the momager of her daughters’ careers. Her management of her girls has made at least one of them a billionaire. Reports indicate that she has helped her children start fifteen businesses. Fifteen. And according to industry sources, she gets a ten percent payout from everything her family does. Imagine.

For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God. Romans 3:23

The question I would ask is this. Has she had plastic surgery on her soul? Or. Is it still stained with unconfessed sin? Has she confessed her sins and repented of her sinful ways? Is she following the teachings of Jesus Christ? Does she even believe in God and his saving power?

One day she too will stand before her Maker and her life will be examined closely. It will be far too late for any type of spiritual surgery. What our Heavenly Father sees on that day will be what he bases her final judgment on. No going back. No physical surgery can fix what she will face in that meeting with her Maker. Regardless of how youthful she looks on that fateful day, God will be searching his records to see if her name is in the Book of Life.

The thing is. God sees this woman and he loves her so much. He isn’t interested in all the unneeded surgeries she puts herself through to make herself acceptable to society. He cares about what he sees on the inside of her. He cares so deeply about her soul and its condition. It isn’t important to him that she has millions of dollars stashed away, or that she owns multiple homes. He isn’t impressed with the nips and tucks. That isn’t what makes him love her. He loves her because she’s created in his image, and he wants her to want him. He’s jealous for her love and affection. He wants her to commit her life to him. She’s wasted so many years of her life living for herself. Making herself into an older woman who thinks she’s aging gracefully by cutting and smoothing out her skin won’t gain God’s approval. It isn’t smooth skin that will save her in the end. Doesn’t she know that?

God’s the Creator of the universe, and he’s the master surgeon when it comes to aging gracefully into eternity. He knows the only solution to an eternal life with him is eradicating the sinfulness of her life. Oh. She still has time to turn her life over to him. He’s still waiting. Patiently waiting. I wonder if she’ll ever give him the time of day as she schedules photo shoots and interviews and schemes up new business deals for her kids. Will she ever make time for God?

You may not be planning to have a face lift to stall the aging process. And you may not have repented of your sins. But there is still an opportunity for you to do so. As long as there is breath in your lungs, you can still turn to God. Don’t be deceived by the planning and scheming in today’s world. Don’t let your heart be hardened against God, but trust in him and repent today. While there is still time.

Be careful then, dear brothers and sisters. Make sure that your own hearts are not evil and unbelieving, turning you away from the living God. You must warn each other every day, while it is still “today,” so that none of you will be deceived by sin and hardened against God. For if we are faithful to the end, trusting God just as firmly as when we first believed, we will share in all that belongs to Christ. Remember what it says: “Today when you hear his voice, don’t harden your hearts as Israel did when they rebelled.” Hebrews 3:12-15

No Compromise

~ mercyfortheday ~ Leave a comment

Her question seemed innocent enough, yet it was charged with something much more than innocence. What would you call it? Selfishness? Immaturity? And she was dead serious when the words came out of her mouth. Here’s her question.

How do I compromise and still get what I want?

That’s the question for the ages, isn’t it? How do I compromise and still get what I want? Hmmm. Let’s think about that.

Many times in our relationship with God, we ask the same question. How do I toe the line biblically and still get what I want? How can I do my own thing and still be a Christian? How can I fit in with my non-Christian friends and coworkers, or whoever it is influencing me away from God, and still squeeze into heaven?

I’ve been taking walks through my small town in the cool morning hours. The other day, I walked down a couple of streets I had never visited. The yard of one of the houses is always immaculate. The grass is freshly mowed. The flowers are beautiful. The landscaping is perfect. But the house is on a very small lot. When I walked past the back of the house, I noticed what the owners don’t want others to see. The rusty fire pit leaning against an old, unused woodpile. The two locked cabinets holding valuable items. A shed that holds more unused items. Oh. This view is visible to the neighbors who live near them. But to those who drive by on the main road, the property looks amazing. One would never know what lies behind all the beauty unless they looked around the corner.

I don’t know if they’re even trying to hide all these items, but if they are it’s not working. They’re not fooling the neighbors who have to look at this lot of stuff they’ve “hidden” on such a small property. Oh. They’ve tried to keep it straightened up and organized. But they also have a deck, a tiki bar, a hot tub and more on their small lot. They also have a small privacy panel to obviously keep things private. But it’s just not working.

Do you ever wonder if others can see what you’re trying to keep hidden behind the facade of your Christian life? Do others see the real you as you walk into church looking like a Christian, yet you’ve never thought about God the entire week? Do others see the discarded hurt feelings? Or the bad attitude you’re desperately try to ignore? Do they notice your attempts at biblical knowledge when you don’t even open your Bible? Do they see the pride or envy? The jealousy? The gluttony?

I had to leave the house a few days ago to pick up a package I had ordered. I knew there would be others from the area collecting their orders, as well. I just hopped in my car and left the house without changing my clothes. And they were not really clothes to be worn in public. But I did it anyway. On the way, I hoped I wouldn’t run into anyone I knew. I didn’t want them to see me dressed in such a way.

Why was I so concerned that someone I knew might see me dressed in my stay at home clothes? Why didn’t it bother me that strangers would see me dressed this way? Why do I have double standards? What picture am I trying to present to those who know me versus total strangers?

If you want to be my disciple, you must, by comparison, hate everyone else—your father and mother, wife and children, brothers and sisters—yes, even your own life. Otherwise, you cannot be my disciple. And if you do not carry your own cross and follow me, you cannot be my disciple. Luke 14:26-27

Don’t we know that we can’t have it both ways? We’re all in for Christianity or we’re all out. Being lukewarm isn’t going to cut it when it comes to our eternal destiny. Yet, somehow that’s the game too many of us try to play. And we may be fooled and very shocked to find ourselves in hell for eternity because we played the compromise game. And then it’s too late.

The good thing is. Now. Before it’s too late, we can get serious about our eternal destination. We can get serious about our relationship with Jesus Christ while we’re still breathing and on this earth. We don’t have to compromise, and it should never be an option. So. How do we do that? How do we decide once and for all that there is nothing that will compromise our faith?

In his teachings, Jesus told us that being his follower is more than just accepting an invitation to repent of our sins. Oh. He offered an invitation, all right. Accepting Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior of our lives means that Jesus is priority number one and we are lesser than him. We must love Christ more than anything else in the world.

We can’t play games with the truth. Biblical truth must always be front and center in our lives. We can’t allow our goals and desires and ambitions to be guided by someone or something that doesn’t lead us closer to Jesus. We can’t allow ourselves to be easily influenced by the standards and values of nonbelievers.

As followers of Jesus Christ, we are set apart to be holy for God. Not holy rollers. And not goody two shoes. We must choose to live godly lives. We must do more than respect and admire Jesus. We must be consistent in our relationship with Him. We have no option but to read, study and obey God’s word. And then we must apply what we’ve learned to living a life that pleases Him. And we must share our faith with others. It’s that simple. No compromise when living for Jesus.

We must put a stake in the ground when we’re tempted to compromise in any area of our faith. If we don’t, we’ll fall for even the smallest temptation. We’ll choose the low road instead of the high road. There is a way back to biblical living. But there may come a time when our hearts are too hardened to feel the nudge of the Holy Spirit. We won’t hear our guilty conscience.

But while it’s still today and we’re still aware of where we fall short in our walk with Christ, let’s vow to be more faithful. Eternity is for the long haul, and we have only once chance to enter heaven’s gate when we take our last breath. After that last breath, there’s no second chance or turning back.

Many of us who call ourselves Christians are not truly devoted to Jesus Christ. ~Oswald Chambers