Discombobulated

~ mercyfortheday ~ Leave a comment

Several Sundays ago, I walked into the church sanctuary and saw people sitting in my row and the row behind mine. I call it my row, because it’s where I sit every Sunday. They weren’t sitting in my exact spot, but they were in my row. So I kindly asked them if the seats were taken, and they said yes. I moved one row up and sat down. They must be visitors, I thought. I had never seen any of the people sitting in those two rows, so I wasn’t sure what was going on. They seemed to know each other, because they were chatting away.

As the sanctuary began to fill up, I noticed the family who usually sits behind me was sitting across the aisle. Since no specific family sits in the row in front of me each week, I wasn’t sure who would be misplaced there. But the very tall family who usually sits two rows in front of me sat right in front of me on this particular Sunday. They’re giants. And I couldn’t see a thing.

I noticed other people being displaced to other seats that morning, as well. I bet they were wondering the same thing as me. Why is everyone sitting in the wrong seat this morning? Who are those strangers taking up two rows? Are they going to be here next week, too? Is this our new normal?

When it was time to greet people around us, I turned around and shook the stranger’s hands. I had no hard feelings, but I hoped they didn’t ask if they were in my seat. I wasn’t sure how I could say yes without being cynical. So much for being a gracious Christian.

Oh. I hadn’t planned to say anything to these strangers about the fact that they were sitting in my row. But I was thinking it, and I knew I was wrong. I wouldn’t say I had a bad attitude, but I was borderline.

At the end of the service, the pastor announced a baby dedication. Sure enough. These two rows of people were with the new parents whose baby was being dedicated. I must say I breathed a sigh of relief.

Ever since that Sunday, I’ve realized that a few families have intentionally moved from their usual seats. And I’ve wondered why. There’s no rhyme or reason for it that I can tell. Oh. Some of these families arrive just after the service starts, so they don’t always have a prime choice. But they’re now choosing to sit in a different section altogether. I don’t understand. What made them switch?

Guard your heart above all else, for it determines the course of your life. Proverbs 4:23

And this past Sunday, I’m not sure what was happening. Several people were sitting in rows they don’t normally sit in. Once again, I’m stumped. Because when one family sits in the wrong row, it’s a domino effect. Several other families and rows are impacted. It could get ugly, but I’ve never seen that happen.

Oh. I know these are trivial matters in the whole scheme of things. But sometimes it takes only one small change to throw someone into a very difficult mood. Even in church, these things happen.

But then again. My mind goes back to eleven months ago when I walked into that church for the first time. I knew that wherever I sat, someone was probably going to be displaced. Because we know that everyone has their special seat. And I’ve continued to sit in the same general area every Sunday. I’ve noticed that one couple who had initially sat a row or two in front of me now sit across the aisle. I’ve wondered on occasion if I’ve displaced them permanently. I’ll probably never know. She did introduce herself to me early on, but she hasn’t spoken to me since. Even when I ran into her at the garden center months later, she didn’t acknowledge me. Most likely, she didn’t recognize me. That’s what I tell myself.

Sometimes we just make mountains out of molehills. There’s nothing to worry about, but we catch ourselves stewing about what we say is nothing. But that’s not really what we’re thinking. And we allow that nothing to simmer until it’s something big in our minds. And we just can’t seem to let it go.

Why do we adults act like kids? Why don’t we just move on when we say we’re “fine” but we really aren’t? Life could be so much simpler if we didn’t let the little things become so big. Our hearts just aren’t in the right place. And we take things way too personally. Let’s act like adults. And if we call ourselves Christians, let’s overlook the small stuff and pay attention to the really important things. Life doesn’t have to be as difficult and awkward as we make it.

And, I have to be honest. As a woman, I notice this mainly in women. Myself included. I don’t see men getting bent out of shape about someone sitting in their seat in church. I don’t hear men complaining about someone ignoring them at the garden center. We women can be really petty and pretend to be godly at the same time. Don’t think I’m pointing the finger at you. I’m preaching to myself when I say this.

Ugh. Heaven sure looks sweeter all the time. At least I won’t be faced with these trivial matters once I get there.

Playing Possum

~ mercyfortheday ~ 1 Comment

It was during my morning walk. I was nearing the end of my first lap, getting ready to start the second one. That’s when I saw it. There was a possum lying on the other side of the road. It lay perfectly still. Never moving. I wasn’t sure if it was dead or alive, but I didn’t want to get too close. I couldn’t see any injuries or worse on it. There were no flies swarming around, and I didn’t see any blood. I wondered. Could that possum be playing me? Could it be playing dead? Did it want me to assume that it was of no further use on this earth? I don’t know. But I did know that I didn’t want to find out. Now mind you. I don’t know if a possum would try to attack a human, but I didn’t want to find that out, either. So I continued on my walk. But, I decided to shorten the second lap so I wouldn’t pass by the animal again.

The next day, I noticed that the possum wasn’t there. Hmmm. Something sounds fishy to me. And two days later when I walked by, I noticed a peculiar odor in that area. I don’t know if the possum had died and someone had moved it into the ditch. I didn’t stop to find out. And then the following day, there was no foul odor. So, I don’t know what happened to the possum. I really don’t think he was dead, but I can’t be sure.

I read that possums play dead when they feel threatened. It’s a natural defense mechanism that occurs when their attempt to ward off a predator fails. They just drop over and enter a death-like state. This seemingly innocent act saves them from actual death. They fake out their opponents by pretending to die before their opponent actually kills them.

Pretending to die isn’t a strategy the possum chooses. It’s a natural reflex to extreme stress and physical threats. Faking their death keeps them alive to live another day.

Obviously, I’m not trying to win the approval of people, but of God. If pleasing people were my goal, I would not be Christ’s servant. Galatians 1:10

There are people who call themselves Christian, but they don’t live according to biblical principals. They pretend to be one thing when they’re something else. They fake out innocent victims who are searching for the truth in the hopes of detracting them from it. They don’t instinctively roll over and play dead, but they do pretend to be something they’re not. Are they playing a human version of possum just to avoid a stressful situation?

Sometimes even strong believers have a moment of weakness and assume a posture of hypocrisy in order to avoid criticism. When our beliefs clash with those of other believers, we can agree to disagree if the disagreement is one that does not conflict with the essential teachings of salvation. Some biblical teachings are essential for all believers who call themself Christians. And some are not essential. When we do disagree on a secondary issue, we can choose to disagree agreeably. There are times when compromise is necessary, but only when we aren’t compromising the truth of God’s Word. The Word of God can never be compromised. It is infallible.

Even the apostle Peter had a moment of hypocrisy. As a Jew, he lived in accordance with the Jewish laws. But then he went to Antioch to preach to the Gentiles who had much different standards. And when he was with the Gentiles, he lived as a Gentile. He didn’t adhere to the strict Jewish laws. But when some Jewish friends came to visit, he wouldn’t eat with the Gentiles. He was even able to sway other Jewish converts to follow his pattern of hypocrisy. Peter thought he was just trying to create a harmonious atmosphere, but he was caught in the middle of two sets of belief. And he was called out for it when Paul visited and confronted him to his face. Paul called him a hypocrite. Paul knew that Peter stood on dangerous ground when he chose to change his beliefs when faced with both sides of the argument. You can’t have it both ways and still be right.

As a result, other Jewish believers followed Peter’s hypocrisy, and even Barnabas was led astray by their hypocrisy. Galatians 2:13

Was it fear of not being accepted by his fellow Jewish partners that caused him to set aside eating with the Gentiles? Or, was it because he was just trying to play nice with everyone? Peter was a leader among Christian leaders and he failed in his actions. Oh. He’s not the first. And he probably won’t be the last. But there’s a lesson for us today.

We can’t pretend to believe one thing when we’re with one group of believers and then pretend we believe something different when we’re with another set of believers. We need to know what we believe and why we believe it. And then we must stand strong in our convictions. Not everyone will agree with us, but that’s ok. Let’s not live as hypocrites. Let’s stand strong in biblical beliefs so others can be won to Christ because of our steadfast testimony. We can’t act against what we know is right just to please others. Our goal as Christians must be to please God. No one else.

Even when we face potential criticism because of our faithful stance of obeying God, we don’t have to bow to the pressures of others. God is on our side, and he continually fights for us. We don’t need to please others just to get along. We can respect differences of beliefs and opinions while we stand for truth. We have to remind ourselves that God is the one who examines our motives. He’s the one who is truth, and he knows when we stand for or against it.

For we speak as messengers approved by God to be entrusted with the Good News. Our purpose is to please God, not people. He alone examines the motives of our hearts. 1 Thessalonians 2:4

Unearned Favor

~ mercyfortheday ~ Leave a comment

We moved to a new state eleven months ago. This new state doesn’t have the bank where we have banked for our entire marriage. So, throughout the last months, we have been slowly moving checking and savings accounts to a new bank closer to home. It’s been a process. Stopping and restarting automatic payments and deposits. Hoping we haven’t forgotten any. I think we’ve finally crossed the finish line with the previous bank. Oh. We didn’t have any complaints with the former bank. We just needed a bank that was close to home. Not two states away.

We happened to be near a branch of the old bank a couple of weeks ago, so we stopped in to finally close out all the accounts. It was the end of an era. As we sat down with the bank manager, he pulled up our accounts. He calculated any interest that might be owed on the small amount we still had in the bank so he could produce a final check for us. And then he said the words we all hope to hear but usually don’t. Do you have another account? I told him that we had already moved our investment accounts, so no. There are no other accounts.

But lo and behold. There was an account in the name of the man of the house. It had sat dormant for many years. And the balance in that account blew us away. How could an account with that much money be forgotten and set aside? How does that happen? I don’t know. But it did.

I have to confess. As I sat there, I created in my mind a long list of ways to spend that wad of unknown money. We had hit paydirt. Oh no. Don’t get me wrong. We weren’t suddenly wealthy. But when you’re told you have a nice amount of money coming to you that you didn’t expect, you get a little excited. But I do have to admit that I sat there waiting for the shoe to drop. Would he discover that the account really wasn’t my husbands? Would the man have to come clean that what he thought was our account really wasn’t? But no. He didn’t. And we walked away with a lot more money than we had expected. It felt good to have that extra cash in our pocket.

What will we do with the money? You ask. I have no idea. Right now it’s sitting in a savings account accruing a very small amount of interest. But it’s ours, and it feels good. To be honest, I could have it spent in no time. Our new home has a host of updates that need to be made. Oh. We’re whittling down the list a little at a time, so every little bit of unplanned financial surprise is just that. A surprise.

Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace in its various forms. 1 Peter 4:10

Did you know that the word grace was used 124 times in the New Testament? And the apostle Paul used that same word 86 times in his writings. Grace is undeserved favor in God speak. And grace is getting something that we shouldn’t get without working for it. But God gives it to us without charge to us. Oh. There was a payment for grace. A huge sacrifice. Anyone who knows anything about the Bible knows that the sacrifice was God’s only Son, Jesus Christ. Jesus was crucified and died on a cross for the sins of every person who has ever had life. We didn’t have to ask for this favor. It was given to us freely. At least, it’s free for us. Someone did die for us to have that favor. And he did it willingly.

I think about the free gift of grace. It’s similar to the free money we discovered in a forgotten checking account. Oh. But this gift of grace is different.  It has eternal consequences.

Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen. Ephesians 4:29

When I think of grace, I’m reminded of the neighbor who shoveled my driveway all winter.  And he asked if I minded if he did it.  And then another neighbor recently loaned us two window air conditioning units when our central air stopped working. They didn’t have to offer these acts of kindness to us, but they did it from the bottom of their hearts with no expectations of receiving anything in return. That’s what grace is. Good neighbors. Kind hearts. Acts of generosity.

Grace is an act of kindness we don’t expect or deserve.  It’s just given free of charge without any expectation of repayment.  So when the snow shoveling neighbor asked if we would mow his lawn while he was on vacation, you bet we said yes.  And when the air conditioning neighbor asked to use our water line and hose while he worked on a concrete project next door, you bet we agreed. 

God’s grace extends to everyone who calls on his name for salvation. We can also offer grace in a multitude of ways to those who need a helping hand or a favor. They may ask, but they may not. We can still offer a loving hand to help.

I remember the story of Jesus stopping to rest at a well outside of the town of Sychar in Samaria. He knew that a woman with a checkered past would come to the well in the heat of the day to draw water. She didn’t come with the masses of women during the cool morning hours, for fear of being rejected. She came alone when no one would be around. Except on this day, Jesus sat there waiting. He asked for water, and she was surprised at the request because he was Jewish. She knew Jews looked down on Samaritans. And then he offered her living water that would quench her thirst forever. She questioned how that was possible. So he told her of this living water that would change her life. And he continued on to tell her that he knew of her five husbands and that the man she currently lived with wasn’t her husband. He didn’t judge her or rebuke her. In love he offered her forgiveness and grace. Undeserved favor. And desperate for it, she gratefully accepted the invitation. And she ran and told the people of her town the good news.

Oh. Don’t be fooled. This woman from Samaria was very aware of the tensions between the Jews and her people. She knew exactly why Jews wouldn’t associate with people from her region, so she was very surprised when this obviously Jewish man sitting alone at the well asked her to get him a drink of water. She didn’t hesitate to serve him, but she had questions and he had the answer she didn’t know she needed.

You can read the story of the Samaritan woman at the well in John 4.

But God is so rich in mercy, and he loved us so much, that even though we were dead because of our sins, he gave us life when he raised Christ from the dead. (It is only by God’s grace that you have been saved!) Ephesians 2:4-5

Yet God, in his grace, freely makes us right in his sight. He did this through Christ Jesus when he freed us from the penalty for our sins. Romans 3:24

Did the bank manager, out of the goodness of his heart, just randomly offer us a sum of money that wasn’t owed us? Did the neighbor just randomly choose me out of thin air to shovel my driveway? Did the other neighbor happen to walk down the street and assume our air conditioning wasn’t working because our windows were open? No. The banker realized the money legally belonged to us, so he set the bank right with us. The neighbor shoveled our driveway because he knew I was living alone. The other neighbor offered the two air conditioners when I happened to mention our situation during a random conversation. These men used the gifts they had to serve those who were in need. Oh. They didn’t have to offer anything, but they did. And that’s exactly what Jesus Christ offers to anyone who comes to him. He offers forgiveness, grace and mercy. He will wipe our slate of sins clean when we confess and repent. He will make us a new person ready and willing to serve him. The least we can do is bow in submission and receive the free gift of salvation that he is offering.

God’s Goodness in My Morning Walk

~ mercyfortheday ~ Leave a comment

As I rounded the corner to turn west that morning, the flag flying low slapped me in the face. Oh. I walk by this flag every morning, but I barely notice it. This brush across the face by the stars and stripes reminded me that I’ve been slapped with freedom just by being born in this country. It reminded me that I’m proud to be a citizen of this great nation. Politics aside, I’m living free. And that feels good.

But I also notice a few less patriotic scenes as I walk along. One of the recently sold houses was purchased by a young family. I’ve never seen the kids, but I see all their bicycles and toys and deflated inflatables lying on the lawn. For the life of me, I don’t understand why they don’t pick up these toys each night and put them away. And, for pete’s sake, the SOLD sign is still stuck in their yard. But the scene that I witnessed that morning outshone all the mess before me. I saw the mom and dad on the porch hugging each other as they shared a morning kiss. They stayed in that embrace for a few seconds before he pulled away. As he walked down the stairs to his truck, he timidly smiled at me.

Oh. I’ve noticed this couple on the front porch several other mornings, just not in a sweet embrace. I’ve seen them sitting there chatting before their busy day starts. One morning, they were sitting on the lawn and she held a book in hand. I imagined that she was reading the Bible to her husband as a loving way to start the day. But I don’t know if that’s true or not. It’s refreshing to see a young couple enjoying each other’s presence before the house erupts with kid’s needs.

Enter his gates with thanksgiving; go into his courts with praise. Give thanks to him and praise his name. Psalm 100:4

On around the corner sat the sheriff’s car. I’m not sure if he was processing paperwork or waiting for speeders. Either way, I walked on by without hesitation. I’ve seen this car in the church parking lot many other times, but never with a law enforcement officer sitting in it.

I’ve had multiple occasions to meet dogs while getting my steps in. One such morning, I walked past a trailer just as the owner opened the door to let her two dogs out. One rushed at me and brushed against my leg. As I continued walking, the owner yelled with her gruff, smoky voice to get back here, with a profanity thrown in for good measure. Each morning that same dog barks at me from inside the trailer as I walk past, and the owner lets out a gruff rebuke each time.

On one morning’s walk, I had the opportunity to meet a dog named Goldie. Her owner held tightly to the leash, because she said Goldie would want to follow me. I told her that I once had a dog that would try the same thing. Goldie seemed to be mild mannered and gentle. She didn’t rush toward me or make a sound as I walked past. Oh. I called her by name so she would hopefully see me as a friendly sort.

Further on in my walk, another dog ran through a neighbor’s yard toward me. Oh. He was a friendly guy. He’s a hunting dog. I had met him a few month’s earlier when he got loose one morning. At that point, I had no clue where he lived or who owned him, so I was able to pull him into the house and call the number on his collar. The owner later came to pick him up. Through my morning walks, I’ve now discovered where Toby lives. He barks at me each morning as I walk past his house. He doesn’t realize I rescued him months earlier. But on this particular morning, he ran toward me from a yard that was not his. As I reached to find his owner’s phone number on his tag, he felt the shock from his collar. Off he ran toward home. And as I continued on my path to home, I heard his owner yelling loudly at him over and over again.

I notice the cars and trucks on the streets as people are leaving to begin a new workday. I’m thankful that my years of daily work have come to an end, and look forward to years ahead of slow living. I hope these workers realize that while the days are long the years really are short. Soon, they will be the ones pursuing a slower pace of life.

I see the old 2-story Victorian that recently had a facelift. It now looks loved and well cared for. It now looks inviting. I would love to commend the owner if I ran into them on the sidewalk. If only the neighboring houses would follow suit. Too many houses in this small town don’t have any appeal, yet the streets are lined with years old trees. It’s obvious the houses and the village have been around for many, many years, but the pride in it has fallen to a severely low point. I discovered a lawn ornament in the lawn across the street from that spiffed up house. I’m not sure how long it has sat there, but I have to believe it’s been a long while. The pale blue toilet sure makes a statement, all right.

I noticed the alley that I recently learned has likely been used as a drug selling spot at one point in history. I avoid walking that path. Now the owner of the big house has a legitimate job and the illegal sales seemed to have stopped. At least, that’s what I’ve been told. If only he would take care of his property, the neighbors would rejoice.

As I turn the curve to my street, I notice how it is lined with trees to the west. I walk the remaining yards to my front door, and head to the shower to remove all traces of sweat. It’s gonna be a good day.

Surely your goodness and unfailing love will pursue me all the days of my life, and I will live in the house of the Lord forever. Psalms 23:6

Why am I thankful for this phase of life I’m in? There is power and freedom in a slow lifestyle. Living in a simple, half-forgotten village that seeks for relevance is not for everyone. It’s a quiet life that I’m loving. And I’m reminded each day on my walks that God is so, so good to me. I have so much to be thankful for. For many years I lived with the hustle and bustle of city living, full-time work and busyness. Retirement brings contentment and fulfillment in ways I never imagined. Life is good.

He who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus. Philippians 1:6

I love You, Lord
Oh, Your mercy never failed me
All my days, I’ve been held in Your hands
From the moment that I wake up
Until I lay my head
Oh, I will sing of the goodness of God

And all my life You have been faithful
And all my life You have been so, so good
With every breath that I am able
Oh, I will sing of the goodness of God

I love Your voice
You have led me through the fire
And in darkest night You are close like no other
I’ve known You as a Father
I’ve known You as a Friend
And I have lived in the goodness of God, yeah

And all my life You have been faithful
And all my life You have been so, so good
With every breath that I am able
Oh, I will sing of the goodness of God, yeah!

‘Cause Your goodness is running after, it’s running after me
Your goodness is running after, it’s running after me
With my life laid down, I’m surrendered now
I give You everything
‘Cause Your goodness is running after, it’s running after me
‘Cause Your goodness is running after, it’s running after me
Your goodness is running after, it’s running after me
With my life laid down, I’m surrendered now
I give You everything
‘Cause Your goodness is running after (It keeps running after me)

And all my life You have been faithful
And all my life You have been so, so good
With every breath that I am able
Oh, I’m gonna sing of the goodness of God
I’m gonna sing, I’m gonna sing
‘Cause all my life You have been faithful
And all my life You have been so, so good
With every breath that I am able
Oh, I’m gonna sing of the goodness of God
Oh, I’m gonna sing of the goodness of God

~Bethel Music

Under His Wings

~ mercyfortheday ~ Leave a comment

The family sits in front of us at church most Sundays. Mom. Dad. Four kids. One girl and three boys. They’re all stairstep in age. The girl first followed by the boys. The girl is probably a couple of years older than the oldest boy, but it’s obvious he’s going to be taller than her. He’s pretty much her height already. It will be interesting to watch them grow up. They’re a nice looking family.

They usually arrive just a little late, so they have to scramble to find a seat that will fit all six of them. The kids are well behaved. The youngest seems to be the most unruly of all. His curly hair is also longer and more unkempt than the other two boys. They have short cuts, and his is a mullet. I wonder why he’s allowed to have such an extreme haircut for such a young kid when his brothers aren’t.

Each Sunday, it’s the same story. Once they walk into the sanctuary, the kids are scrambling to see who gets to sit by Mom. They all want to sit by her. The girl usually never gets that coveted position, because the boys are younger and make a bigger fuss out of the ordeal. The oldest boy who’s probably ten loves to sit by his mom. The youngest boy somehow never gets the spot without pushing his way into it. He’s good at displacing a sibling who claimed the spot first. I’ve seen this happen on multiple occasions. Who knows. Perhaps they have to call dibs on the drive to church, or they have an assigned seat each Sunday. It doesn’t matter. The youngest one always, always finds a way to sit nearest his mom whether it’s his turn or not.

It’s obvious this is a close, loving family. The mother looks at her kids very lovingly, but she’s quick to discipline when the boys get out of hand. She’s constantly making them stand when the congregation is standing. The youngest likes to slough off and sit. But no. He must stand like everyone else.

I’m sure this mother would do anything to protect her children. She wants the best for them. Oh. I’m sure there will come a day when the kids are older that they won’t try so hard to sit close to her. They’ll want their space. They’ll want to sit with their friends. They won’t want to be seen anywhere near their mom. It’s too embarrassing. But deep down, they’ll know that they can run to her at the first hint of trouble. She is theirs and they are hers.

“O Jerusalem, Jerusalem, the city that kills the prophets and stones God’s messengers! How often I have wanted to gather your children together as a hen protects her chicks beneath her wings, but you wouldn’t let me. And now, look, your house is abandoned and desolate. For I tell you this, you will never see me again until you say, ‘Blessings on the one who comes in the name of the Lord! ” Matthew 23:37-39

Oh. The mother of these four kids knows that her brood will face all types of temptations and trials as they grow and mature. And when they reach adulthood and have their own families and careers, they’ll be bombarded on all sides by things they cannot yet imagine. She knows that now is her opportunity to mold and shape them. To train them to turn to God with all their troubles. She knows some of what lies ahead for them, but she doesn’t know the future. I’ve seen the way she looks at her kids when they aren’t looking. It’s a look of love and tenderness. She wants God’s best for her children.

When Jesus is lamenting in Matthew 23 about wanting to gather the Jewish people under his wings, he knows they won’t allow it. They’ve run from him and ignored his teachings for far too long. And what they don’t know that he knows is that in a generation’s time, their city will be destroyed. The Romans will come in once again to rule. All because of their disobedience to God. It doesn’t have to be that way, but they ignore his warnings. Jesus was trying to save them from a calamity that was totally avoidable, but they refused to listen.

His feelings for his favored people are so strong, yet he doesn’t demand they listen or repent. He allows them to choose their own path. Just as Jesus allows the Jewish people to choose, so does the mother of these four kids. She can teach them and train them and pray for them. She can warn them and steer them toward a life of fulfillment in Christ, but ultimately the decision is theirs to make. They can choose to follow Jesus or not.

I wonder if these kids ever refuse to listen to their mom. If they haven’t done so yet, I bet there will come a point that they do. We all tend to be a bit stubborn and rebellious when we want our way and the authority in our life disagrees. We tend to develop selective hearing and choose to walk our own path. If not careful, we’ll find ourselves in a heap of trouble. I hope this doesn’t happen to these kids, but now while they’re impressionable and moldable, I hope and pray they choose to live a life for Christ.

The same goes for us today. Jesus also wants to protect us if we will let him. When we’re hurting and don’t know where to turn, he’s waiting with arms wide open. He will gather us and protect us under his wings. We’re the ones who’ve turned away. He never rejects us. He knows our needs and concerns and is ready and willing to help and comfort us. Don’t turn away from God. Reach out to him in times of need. He’s the answer to life’s problems.

Under His wings I am safely abiding;
  Though the night deepens and tempests are wild,
Still I can trust Him, I know He will keep me;
  He has redeemed me, and I am His child.

Under His wings, under His wings,
  Who from His love can sever?
Under His wings my soul shall abide,
    Safely abide forever.

Under His wings—what a refuge in sorrow!
  How the heart yearningly turns to His rest!
Often when earth has no balm for my healing,
  There I find comfort, and there I am blest.

Under His wings—oh, what precious enjoyment!
  There will I hide till life’s trials are o’er;
Sheltered, protected, no evil can harm me;
  Resting in Jesus I’m safe evermore.

~William Cushing & Ira Sankey

When Life Stinks

~ mercyfortheday ~ Leave a comment

I’m not sure which is worse to live through. A cold house in the middle of a very cold winter when the furnace isn’t working. Or. A hot house in the middle of a very hot summer when the air conditioning quits working. I hate to say it, but I’m living in a very hot house right now. And this past winter, it was a cold house. As I type this, I’m waiting on a repairman who can hopefully help resolve the problem.

And the verdict is in. We need a new air conditioner. Oh. The old one still works, but the coolant is no longer legal to use. That requires us to purchase something we really don’t need but we do need. Apparently, there’s no way around it. Isn’t it funny how life works. And we’re also waiting to hear if our home warranty company will cover the cost. Or at least part of it.

Life is unpredictable, and sometimes the unpredictability just stinks. And usually we just have to adjust when the unpredictable sinks to an all-time low. Oh. It could be anything that surprises us. Catches us off guard. An unexpected home repair. Or an unexpected illness or diagnosis. It could be a job loss. Or an unplanned pregnancy. Or the loss of a loved one. Or a local tragedy. Perhaps it’s a huge unexpected change of plans. We never know when life will trip us up.

There are ups and downs in the flow of life. Some good. Some bad. And some ugly. At times, the trouble sticks around indefinitely, and other times it’s short-lived. We never know what life will bring, and we don’t know how our troubles will be resolved. But we can still find good in life even during the most difficult of times.

Oh. I know there are deeper troubles we can find ourselves in besides living without air conditioning. I’m thankful that, at the moment, this is the only trouble we’re in. Because it’s momentary, we will see the end of it in a relatively short time.

I’m thankful at the moment for a portable air conditioner that’s keeping the house modestly cool. Plus. We have fans going during the day and night. And we’re sitting outside under the big oak tree keeping cool for awhile each day. Oh. We’ll have a new cooling unit installed, but we have to wait in line with all the others who are experiencing similar troubles.

So humble yourselves under the mighty power of God, and at the right time he will lift you up in honor. Give all your worries and cares to God, for he cares about you. In his kindness God called you to share in his eternal glory by means of Christ Jesus. So after you have suffered a little while, he will restore, support, and strengthen you, and he will place you on a firm foundation. 1 Peter 5:6-7,10

When life throws us into a spin of tough times, we must lean on God. He is the God of all comfort, and he will sustain us. When the uncertainties and emotions ebb and flow, we have a constant source of strength. God is an ever-present help in times of trouble.

God is our refuge and strength, always ready to help in times of trouble. So we will not fear when earthquakes come and the mountains crumble into the sea. Let the oceans roar and foam. Let the mountains tremble as the waters surge! Psalms 46:1-3

God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble. Psalms 46:1

When we are walking through a very dark valley, can we still find good in life? Can we push away the fearful thoughts that can overwhelm and discourage us? I know from experience that during the toughest times of life, I lean in closer to God than I do when life is going my way. I seek his presence more, because in the low times I realize I can’t handle life on my own. I don’t know why I think I’m handling life well on my own when things are going smoothly. It’s second nature. But we need God in every day of our lives, not just during the tough times.

And during the easier days we also need to spend time with God. Filling our cup of life with his goodness and love and kindness. It’s only when our cup is full that we can dip into the excess during those unexpected difficulties. Life is good at all times when God is the center of our lives. Our circumstances may be difficult, but God is always, always good.

Even when I walk through the darkest valley, I will not be afraid, for you are close beside me. Your rod and your staff protect and comfort me. Psalms 23:4

God’s gracious presence is with us during even the worst times of our lives. He doesn’t leave us. We must reach out to him for strength and support. He loves us with an everlasting love during every period of our lives. He doesn’t love us only when life is easy. He loves us as much during the difficulties we face. His love never changes or ceases.

I know someone who was traveling internationally this week. She arrived, but her luggage didn’t. And the power was out, meaning the water also didn’t work. What a way to start a missions trip. Was she excited and on fire for the assignment, or was she fuming at the inconvenience of it all? Fortunately, her luggage showed up three days later, after she had made an emergency shopping trip.

Life is full of events we don’t ask for. It’s in those moments that we have to realize that God is still God, and we are not. He walks beside us during every trial life throws at us. Regardless of how big or small it may seem to others, God is in the midst of our troubles allowing us to fall back on his grace and mercy. He’s waiting for us to call out to him in our moments of need, as well as in our moments of plenty.

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

All creatures, when in distress, run to their refuges. ~Trapp

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

Coyote Alert

~ mercyfortheday ~ Leave a comment

Our doorbell rang the other night. Our next door neighbor and his seven-year-old daughter popped over to introduce us to their new eleven-week-old puppy. He was a tiny thing and may only gain a couple more pounds during his lifetime. He’s such a cutie. That little girl was so proud of her new puppy. She said she lets him sleep with her. I told her that she could bring him over anytime she wanted.

A few months ago, I was having a conversation with that same neighbor. He had told me that, at one point, they had owned a dog. He said he wasn’t sure he wanted to get another one, because he was concerned about coyotes in our area. Now. They have a new puppy. All fears of coyotes attacking a very small dog must have been put to rest. Or. Perhaps it was the constant asking and asking for a puppy by his ever loving daughter. It doesn’t really matter the reason that worn him down. What matters is that they never let this tiny dog outside unattended. Especially in the dark. I’ve never seen a coyote in the area, but I have heard them. And they sound like they’re the ones being attacked and torn apart.

I’m reminded of the neighborhood we left ten months ago. For some unresolved reason, I still follow that neighborhood page on a popular social media site. That small neighborhood nestled in the midst of a large city has recently been targeted by a band of coyotes. And these coyotes aren’t being shy about their intentions. In full view, they follow people walking their dogs during the daytime. They’ve been caught on camera walking right up to someone’s front door or just sitting near the driveway. They’ve made themselves known, and not in a good way. They’ve become a menace to the neighborhood. Recently, one person who lived two doors down from us uploaded a video of the woods behind the neighborhood. The only thing visible was the trees, but the sound was ominous. The coyotes were in perfect harmony with the sirens going by on the freeway. I would hate to be a pet owner in that neighborhood these days.

As I said, I haven’t seen a coyote in my current neighborhood. I’m not sure what makes me more uncomfortable. Seeing the threat or not seeing it. It pays to always be on guard for unseen predators. We can consider ourselves warned when we see or hear predators in our neighborhoods. We have to be prepared for the unthinkable. And we have to know that a predator can appear at any time, ready or not.

I realize a coyote isn’t a wolf, but they both have cunning tendencies. The coyote likes to hide in tall grass in search of its prey. And there is a plot of land behind my neighborhood that the owner doesn’t keep mowed. The grass has been getting tall. It would be a fine hiding place for an animal of prey seeking its next victim. My neighbor has a rightful fear of leaving his small dog unattended near that area behind our houses.

Test everything that is said. Hold on to what is good. 1 Thessalonians 5:21

These situations remind me of a podcast I listened to earlier in the week. The president of a Christian university was being interviewed about how he makes sure the university he leads remains a solid biblical school. The conversation revolved around un-Christian biases that have penetrated biblically sound schools of higher education. They talked about secular schools where it’s common practice to teach from a secular worldview. And the fact that, at those schools, they don’t have to be dressed as sheep when they’re clearly wolves.

But a school that calls itself Christian is another beast. While the school may have the word “Christian” in its name, does it require students, faculty and staff to sign a covenant attesting that they are living biblically? Does it hire only sound Christian staff and faculty? Does it accept only students who are determined to live a biblical worldview? Because if the school doesn’t have a strong, unwavering standard, secular ideologies will creep in. Oh. It may takes years for the change to be noticeable, but there will be change over time.

The concern is that schools that have always been touted as Christian have been infiltrated by non-Christian leaders and teachers. They also admit a high percentage of nonbelievers into their student body each year. The belief has always been that they will convert the nonbelievers to faithful followers of Christ. But the statistics have shown that the opposite happens. The problem is that once people who don’t profess that Jesus Christ is their Lord and Savior are allowed into the school in different roles, they will begin implementing nonbiblical teachings and practices wherever they can. And over time, the school will be turned into a den of wolves, hardly recognizable in the Christian community. Is that what Christians want?

Beware of false prophets who come disguised as harmless sheep but are really vicious wolves. You can identify them by their fruit, that is, by the way they act. Can you pick grapes from thornbushes, or figs from thistles? A good tree produces good fruit, and a bad tree produces bad fruit. A good tree can’t produce bad fruit, and a bad tree can’t produce good fruit. So every tree that does not produce good fruit is chopped down and thrown into the fire. Yes, just as you can identify a tree by its fruit, so you can identify people by their actions. Matthew 7:15-20

Wolves don’t destroy the church from the outside — they lead it from the pulpit. ~Bible in Context

The church’s greatest threat today isn’t from other religions. It’s from false teachers within the church who are leading unknowing believers far from the truth. It happens not only in Christian schools, but also in churches and businesses. Any organization that says it stands for Christian values must be on guard against the devil’s ploys. Their hiring practices and organizational decisions must reflect a biblical worldview. Otherwise, it’s a counterfeit Christian organization.

Christian teachers and leaders must faithfully and humbly live a Christian life? Are they honest, or are they a hypocrite? Do they cheat or take questionable shortcuts in their work? We all know that actions speak louder than words. Evil and deception can be found in Christian settings.

As followers of Christ, we need to know what a sheep wearing wolves clothes looks and sounds like. We can’t claim innocence if we haven’t done our due diligence and can’t spot a fake. That means we need to study the Bible so we know what we’re looking for. We should be able to evaluate someone’s words and lives in comparison to the Bible. Do they pass the smell test of biblical Christianity? They may be friendly and nice, but they’re enemies of the kingdom of God. They are counterfeit Christians. Basically, they’re double agents. We have to be on guard against those who appear to be Christian, but inwardly they are agents of Satan.

Stay alert! Watch out for your great enemy, the devil. He prowls around like a roaring lion, looking for someone to devour. 1 Peter 5:8

The forest was shrinking, but the trees kept voting for the Axe, for the Axe was clever and convinced the Trees that because his handle was wood, he was one of them. ~Turkish Proverb

Don’t Make Me Spit You Out

~ mercyfortheday ~ Leave a comment

Amaziah became king of Judah when he was twenty five years old. His father had been assassinated, so he was next to ascend the throne. Amaziah ruled Judah in a similar manner as his father, Joash. They both served God, but not wholeheartedly. This simply means that they worshipped God, but they weren’t loyal to him. Let’s just say that they both compromised their faith, and each time there were disastrous results. This father and son duo were of the line of David, but unlike King David they served God with a divided heart.

Since Amaziah was a follower of God in name only, he did not destroy the pagan shrines in his country. His people were allowed to offer sacrifices and burnt offerings. Some things that Amaziah did, though, pleased God. But this one act of offering sacrifices to idols, which wasn’t a small matter, greatly displeased God. Oh. His father led the country the same way, you may argue. That doesn’t make it right. And it doesn’t make it any less pleasing to God.

And then there was that one day in Amaziah’s reign when he became too proud. He had defeated the Edomites, who were descendants of Esau. Esau was the twin brother of Jacob, also known as Israel. At this point in history, Israel had been torn apart by infighting. The Israelites had rebelled against the house of David, all because they differed on who should be crowned king after Solomon died. Ten of the twelve tribes favored Jeroboam, and the other two tribes chose Rehoboam. So the twelve tribes split. The ten tribes to the north kept the name of Israel, while the two southern tribes were called Judah. This split occurred as a consequence of Solomon’s sin.

After that short history lesson, let’s go back to Amaziah’s pride.

After he defeated Edom, Amaziah turned around and worshipped their idols. Why would he deliberately choose to worship idols that couldn’t protect the people who worshipped them? And then he arrogantly began plotting to battle against his neighbor, Israel. He thought his two small tribes were capable of defeating the ten tribes of Israel. Foolish. He couldn’t say he wasn’t warned. He shouldn’t have provoked a fight he couldn’t win.

Jehoash, the king of Israel, warned him of the impending disaster. So, Jehoash did the only thing he knew to do. He went to battle with Amaziah and the army of Judah. And guess who won. It wasn’t Judah, and it wasn’t pretty. Israel captured Amaziah and other hostages, and then they plundered the Temple of God taking vast amounts of gold and silver and other Temple articles. Jehoash’s men also broke down some of the wall surrounding Jerusalem and plundered the king’s house, as well. It was a sound defeat.

Amaziah went down in history, but not the way he planned. He made a fool of himself, all for personal glory. He failed miserably. He had let pride get in the way of following God. Oh. There were times he did what looked right to those looking on, but in his heart he was resentful. History tells us that after his loss to Israel, he was hated by his countrymen. In the end, he was hunted and killed by his own people.

You can read the full story of the life of Amaziah in 2 Kings 14 and 2 Chronicles 25.

I know your deeds, that you are neither cold nor hot. I wish you were either one or the other! So, because you are lukewarm—neither hot nor cold—I am about to spit you out of my mouth. Revelation 3:15-16

The story of King Amaziah is a reminder today to people who call themselves Christians. We want to look good to those watching us, but we may be resentful and proud. We want to be known as Christians, but we don’t wholeheartedly live as one. We may be born again Christians, but have we fully committed to living a biblical life? Do we look at today’s culture through a biblical lens, or are we looking at the Bible through a cultural lens?

The George Barna research identifies two types of people who call themselves Christians. One group is the self identified Christians, and then there are the theologically identified born again Christians. Self identified Christians say they’re a Christian when asked about their spirituality. They believe they’re going to heaven because they’ve been a good enough person, not necessarily because their sins have been forgiven. The theologically identified born again Christians say they know they’re going to spend eternity in heaven. They admit that without Jesus they don’t have a shot of entering heaven.

People do not want to be devoted to Jesus, but only to the cause He started. Jesus Christ is deeply offensive to the educated minds of today, to those who only want Him to be their friend, and are unwilling to accept Him in any other way. ~Oswald Chambers

George Barna says that the church has so little power in our culture today because we can’t get clarity on what the Bible teaches us. Which is true if we think about it. If, as a self identifying Christian, we don’t believe the Bible is truth, why do we even call ourselves a Christian? Barna says we aren’t willing to put in the effort to live an authentic Christian life. We believe we personally have a better way, and we put ourselves at the center of our lives. We believe that we’re just basically good people. The Bible says exactly the opposite of those beliefs.

Most self identifying Christians don’t understand even the basics of Biblical Christianity. ~Natasha Crain

We want Jesus to be our friend, instead of Lord of our lives. What does it mean to us when we say we’re Christians? When we identify as a Christian, we must be sincere about our faith. It isn’t just an identity. It is a way of life. It is daily walking in step with Christ. Self-sacrificially bowing to his will. And we must do the hard work of reading our Bible, going to church and applying what we learn to changing our lives.

John, the writer of the book of Revelation, saw a vision of an angel speaking to the church of Laodicea. In that vision, he told the church that they were neither hot or cold. They were lukewarm and would be spit from the mouth of God. The same goes for us today. What kind of Christian life do we live? Are we on fire for God, or are we totally turned against him? Or. Do we say we are on fire for God, yet all the while living in violation of our claims? We can’t have it both ways. And we have to know that God knows our hearts. He will judge us accordingly. And yes, there is a heaven to gain and a hell to lose. It is our choice.

The lukewarm Christian has enough of Jesus to satisfy a craving for religion, but not enough for eternal life. ~David Guzik

In Times Like These

~ mercyfortheday ~ Leave a comment

King Ahab. He had every opportunity to turn his heart toward God, but he always turned away. Even when God gave him victory after victory over his enemies, his heart was hardened toward God. And instead of admitting that his blatant disobedience to God was his problem, he blamed the prophet Elijah for all his trouble. Oh. Ahab’s failure to bow to God’s will wasn’t Elijah’s fault. Ahab had a choice, as always. Go God’s way or make your own path. And he always chose his own path, which later led to the destruction of his nation. Sure. He had some momentary victories. But momentary victories are fleeting. Sooner or later, the truth will find you out. And it found Ahab at an inconvenient time. As if there is a convenient time to have the truth shouted at you.

There are consequences for everything we do. And the consequences do not always affect only the guilty party, but others, as well. Our family. Our neighborhood. Our city. Our state. Our nation. Our employer or employees. Someone pays the price for disobedience or greed or violence or any type of ungodly behavior. Ungodliness has a price tag.

And what does this have to do with us today? You ask. Have you seen the news this week? The videos of the out of control riots in Los Angeles? Have you heard about the attack on a world terror a few days ago? Have you heard about the two state legislators and their spouses who were gunned down because of they way they voted? And the continual wars and rumors of wars? Have you heard of the threats to every American base in the Middle East from one of our adversaries? Have you heard of out of control politicians, not only in this country, but other countries, as well? Have you heard of the outrage about higher taxes and political leaders stuffing their bank accounts with money earned under the table?

It isn’t just ungodly politicians and politics. It’s anyone who doesn’t call on the name of God and repent of their sins. Any of us have the potential to live ungodly lives and snub our nose at God. We are all born with evil in our hearts. It’s just our bent. Sinning, that is. But we also have the potential to repent and live a life that honors God. We must humble ourselves before God and turn from our wicked ways. Only then will God honor us.

The Lord observed the extent of human wickedness on the earth, and he saw that everything they thought or imagined was consistently and totally evil. Genesis 6:5

So humble yourselves before God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you. Come close to God, and God will come close to you. Wash your hands, you sinners; purify your hearts, for your loyalty is divided between God and the world. Let there be tears for what you have done. Let there be sorrow and deep grief. Let there be sadness instead of laughter, and gloom instead of joy. Humble yourselves before the Lord, and he will lift you up in honor. James 4:7-10

At times in life, it appears that evil is winning. We see it all around us. It was the same scenario in Elijah’s time. And Elijah was the bearer of bad news to King Ahab. But he knew that, in good time, Ahab would pay for his rebellious ways. The problem with Ahab was that he did what was evil in the Lord’s eyes, even more so than other kings before him. And he had married the daughter of King Ethbaal of the Sidonians. Her name was Jezebel. And she led him further and further away from God. She actually led him into idol worship, further angering God while at the same time pleasing his wife. The Bible tells us that Ahab did more to provoke the anger of God than any other king of Israel before him. He was evil.

But Ahab son of Omri did what was evil in the Lord ’s sight, even more than any of the kings before him. And as though it were not enough to follow the sinful example of Jeroboam, he married Jezebel, the daughter of King Ethbaal of the Sidonians, and he began to bow down in worship of Baal. First Ahab built a temple and an altar for Baal in Samaria. Then he set up an Asherah pole. He did more to provoke the anger of the Lord , the God of Israel, than any of the other kings of Israel before him. 1 Kings 16:30-33

No one else so completely sold himself to what was evil in the Lord ’s sight as Ahab did under the influence of his wife Jezebel. His worst outrage was worshiping idols just as the Amorites had done—the people whom the Lord had driven out from the land ahead of the Israelites. 1 Kings 21:25-26

It wasn’t that King Ahab didn’t have opportunities to repent and turn to God. There were devoted followers of God working with him. He didn’t just hire rebellious thugs similar to himself. He had godly men in his circle, as well. One such man was a prophet named Obadiah. Imagine being in his shoes. A godly man working with the most ungodly king of all times. But Obadiah’s faith didn’t waver. He stood strong in a hostile environment. On one occasion when Jezebel was on a killing spree, he hid one hundred prophets who were as devoted as Obadiah was in following God.

Many devoted followers of Christ are walking in Obadiah’s shoes today. They stand strong in their godly convictions, determined to honor God, yet they work in an environment hostile to biblical teachings. Their jobs may prove to be on the line if they don’t bow to the demands to cater to secular ideals. They may feel compelled to hide their beliefs in order to stay employed. But they must know that God is with them. He will give them courage and strength to stand strong in their faith. They need only ask.

In times like these you need a Savior, 

In times like these you need an anchor; 

Be very sure, be very sure 

Your anchor holds and grips the Solid Rock! 

This Rock is Jesus, Yes, He’s the One; 

This Rock is Jesus, The only One! 

Be very sure, be very sure 

Your anchor holds and grips the Solid Rock!

 

In times like these you need the Bible, 

In times like these O be not idle; 

Be very sure, be very sure 

Your anchor holds and grips the Solid Rock! 

In times like these I have a Savior, 

In times like these I have an anchor; 

I’m very sure, I’m very sure 

My anchor holds and grips the Solid Rock! 

This Rock is Jesus, Yes, He’s the One; 

This Rock is Jesus, The only One! 

I’m very sure, I’m very sure 

My anchor holds and grips the Solid Rock! 

~~Ruth Caye Jones

So. The question is. What time is it for you? Do you have a Savior, or do you need a Savior?

Seek the Lord while he may be found; call on him while he is near. Isaiah 55:6