All Saints' Day focus - Luke 23:32-43

With Me in Paradise

We are right back to our discussion from Monday about believing and exhibiting faith. The story of the two criminals on crosses alongside Jesus is thought provoking. But, I have to admit I have not given them much consideration until now. What was the difference in these two men? Why did one ridicule and reject Jesus and the other man defend and deify Him. This is curious at the very least.

There is probably quite a story behind both these men, but anything I list here would be pure fiction and we are striving for truth. So, the truth is some will embrace Jesus and some will not. The wonderful fact here is Jesus will embrace each and every one of us when we turn to Him. Hence, His words below add power to this statement.

Luke 23:42-43 (NIV)
“Then he said, "Jesus, remember me when you come into your kingdom." Jesus answered him, "I tell you the truth, today you will be with me in paradise."

How does this story tie in to All Saint’s Day focus? We get to witness the forgiving love and grace of our LORD in this account. One man, a criminal who has earned a death sentence for his actions, has eyes to see truth. This man humbled himself and swallowed all pride to exclaim Jesus’ innocence while conceding his own guilt. The other man was bitter merciless. One can only imagine his crimes.

That said, both men had opportunity but only one had courage to confess and ask Jesus to remember him. Both men saw Jesus, but only one recognized Him. That man is most certainly with Him in paradise.

Read Luke 23:32-43 here

Listen to Luke 23:32-43 here

All Saints' Day focus - John 14:1-7

Rooms in the Father's House

Does this title give you a mental picture? First, I hear the song in my head, "In My Father's House", by Audio Adrenalin. Then I get a picture of a big back yard where lots of people are having a party. There is a cookout, people are running and jumping and laughing and singing. There are children and pets, bounding back and forth –lots and lots of joy.

This week, as we continue our focus on All Saint’s Day, we have to conjure up these scenes. I am positive that my meager imagines fall nowhere near the real picture of life in Our Father’s House. My mind couldn’t even begin to wrap around the splendid reality of life at the feet of Jesus. I think this is why people who are nearing the end of life question what it will be like; because we cannot even come close to envisioning a new life in The Garden.

John 14:1-3 (NIV)
"Do not let your hearts be troubled. Trust in God; trust also in me. In my Father's house are many rooms; if it were not so, I would have told you. I am going there to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come back and take you to be with me that you also may be where I am.”

Truths like the words above make it possible for us to let go of a loved one who is dying. Words like these make Easter Sunday come alive in new ways. This is the hope we Christians proclaim to the world and claim for ourselves during dark days. All Saint’s Sunday is not a favorite holiday for me yet. I dread hearing the roll-call read by the pastors and remember the people I have loved and lost. I am not at that spot yet, but I do know that the ones I miss would not return to me, would not even consider for a moment leaving Jesus’ side.

Read John 14:1-7 here

Listen to John 14:1-7 here

All Saints Day focus - Mark 5:21-24, 35-43

Jesus raises Jairus' child

When fall sets in and the leaves turn colorful and then fall from the trees, we have faith that there will be more leaves in the spring.  We believe that the earth will regenerate and new life will spring forth in a few months.  We believe this because science will prove it, but mostly we believe it because we have experienced it.

We read many stories of faith, many tributes of people believing without seeing. Have you ever experienced anything like this? Has there been anything in your life that required you to sit tight and just believe that God has everything under control? Exercising this sort of faith does not always mean that we are sitting around twiddling thumbs. No, it means we are putting our trust in God, knowing He will do what He does.

Mark 5:36 (NIV)
“Ignoring what they said, Jesus told the synagogue ruler, "Don't be afraid; just believe."

This is a beautiful line and it is great advice anyone of us could use a healthy dose of. When others question our faith by ridicule or put downs, ignore what they say. When even family or close friends challenge us to turn from our faith because they don’t see results, ignore what they say. When Satan whispers into our ears words of disparagement and fear, ignore what he says.

This week we are focusing on All Saint’s Day. Each lesson will point to a time when someone is stretching their hearts by embracing faith during seasons where misery and despair could take over. “Now faith is being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see” (Hebrews 11:1) All Saint’s Sunday is all about acknowledging the faith of those we loved who have gone before us. It is all about recognizing their faith and our faith with bring reunite us again.

Read Mark 5:21-24, 35-43 here

Listen to Mark 5:21-24, 35-43 here

The Story - Chapter 10 - 1 Samuel 15

In chapter 9 Saul was appointed king of Israel by God; anointed by Samuel as the Lord commanded, however by the end of Samuel 15, “The Lord was grieved that He had made Saul king over Israel.”

Just as with us, God gave Saul several chances. Saul received the Lord’s orders through Samuel time and time again. God was clear about what He wanted to have happen. If Saul would have followed God's direct orders good things would have resulted. Saul followed the Lord’s directives pretty closely, but neglected a few details. Apparently those details were very important to God, as Saul was stripped of his crown. Though he admitted he had sinned by not following all of God’s commands, he suffered the consequences just the same. The message Samuel delivered to Saul from God was this; “The Lord has torn the kingdom of Israel from you today and has given it to one of your neighbors—to one better than you. He who is the Glory of Israel does not lie or change his mind; for he is not a man that he should change his mind.”

Do we not mirror Saul’s actions? We follow Gods word pretty closely, but then kind of do our own thing for a while as if He won’t catch it. We know what the commands are, yet we walk the line between His expectations and our own desires. Perhaps we should revisit the details in God’s commands. The stories and teachings in 1 Samuel make it clear that closely following God is the best and most rewarding way to live-in this life and the next. God doesn't want us to follow his commands just some of the time and He doesn't care for excuses or half  hearted effort, He wants ALL of us, regardless of our circumstances.  

Listen to ALL Of ME  by Matt Hammitt here

Read 1 Samuel 15 here
Listen to 1 Samuel 15 here

The Story - Chapter 10 - 1 Samuel 13

Have you ever been given the advice not to get ahead of God? Convicting words, are they not? These words are instructing me to pray first before rushing head-first into disaster. These words are piercing words when I step back and realize I took things into my own hands – ripping them right out of God’s.

My devotion time this morning reminded me that it is a good thing to get alone with God; Jesus did this often. (see Matthew 14:23) When we allow ourselves time to talk things over with God and then close our mouths and listen, He will speak to our Spiritual Ears, words we can only hear when we are deliberately leaning in and listening.

Saul got ahead of God. He became impatient and took matters into his own hands, rejecting Samuel's instructions to wait for him. That was bad news all the way around. Our hasty actions can devastate our future and the future of those around us just like Saul’s did.

1 Samuel 13:13 (NIV)
"You acted foolishly," Samuel said. "You have not kept the command the LORD your God gave you; if you had, he would have established your kingdom over Israel for all time. But now your kingdom will not endure; the LORD has sought out a man after his own heart and appointed him leader of his people, because you have not kept the LORD's command."

Is any of this striking a note with you? Are you feeling a conviction to turn to God and ask for direction and guidance? There are many places in Scripture where I wonder why God’s people acted like they did. There are many times now when I wonder why God’s people act as they do; I wonder why I act as I do. It always comes down to not turning to God first, not waiting on Him to point the way. I gotta work on that.






Read 1 Samuel 13 here

Listen to 1 Samuel 13 here

The Story - Chapter 10 - 1 Samuel 12

God gave the people what they asked for, but that did not get them off the hook. He still expected them to worship Him as their God. In God’s eyes, the people did not need a king to rule them. In fact He warned what would happen, the king who will reign over you will claim as his rights: He will take your sons…some to be commanders…others to plow his ground and reap his harvest…” (1 Samuel 8:10-12)

The people were stubborn and refused to listen to Samuel. So, God gave them what they wanted.

1 Samuel 12:14 (NIV) If you fear the LORD and serve and obey him and do not rebel against his commands, and if both you and the king who reigns over you follow the LORD your God--good!
God wants to fulfill our wishes; He wants to do for us all the time. I know that there have been times I have asked God impatiently for things I wanted. I probably even asked over and over until God gave me what I begged for. You probably know what I am going to say next, “it wasn’t what I truly wanted, or it didn’t do for me what I insisted it would.” Had I only waited.

When I insist on my way, I am rejecting God’s way. When I want what I want when I want it, I am rejecting God and His perfect will and perfect timing.

Samuel continued to tell the people that God is on their side, He will not reject them if they turn to Him and not to worldly idols and false gods. But…you know the rest of the story.


Read 1 Samuel 12 here

Listen to 1 Samuel 12 here

The Story - Chapter 10 - 1 Samuel 11

When I was a child my sister and I fought all the time. I think one of us only had to look cross-eyed at the other and we were ready to do battle. By the same token, if someone outside the family tried to hurt me or my sister, we were right at each other’s side ready to duke it out if necessary.

1 Samuel 11:6 (NIV)

“When Saul heard their words, the Spirit of God came upon him in power, and he burned with anger.”

Yesterday our reading found Saul hiding among the supplies as Samuel was preparing to cast lots among the tribes to determine who would be king. Today we find Saul filled with righteous indignation, preparing to do battle with a people who were threatening to bring disgrace on all Israel. The Holy Spirit used Saul’s anger to bring justice and freedom.

When we see a situation that is begging for a champion to step forward that nudge we feel could be God prompting us to step up and step in. On those occasions when we are witness to an injustice and we feel angered by this wrong, we need to ask God how we can channel that anger in constructive and useful ways to help bring about a positive change.


Read 1 Samuel 11 here

Listen to 1 Samuel 11 here

The Story - Chapter 10 - 1 Samuel 8-10

Do you prefer to work under the direct supervision of someone or are you more of an independent person, functioning best on your own? We are all wired differently and it is good to know this.

Samuel was a prophet of the LORD but “as he grew old he appointed his sons as judges for Israel.” (1 Samuel 8:1) This was not a good decision as his sons turned aside after dishonest gain and accepted bribes…” (1 Samuel 8:3)

The people of Israel were crying out for a King. They wanted to be ruled like all the other countries were ruled. We always seem to want what everyone else has…until we get it. God heard the cry of His people; He comforted Samuel by assuring him the people were not rejecting him. The people were rejecting God.

I can’t begin to count the number of times I have wanted something to be a certain way, only to get my wish and then regret it. This will often happen when I don’t seek after God’s will for me. I am learning that I need to pray for guidance all the time. I need to ask God what His will is before plowing ahead. This can be as simple as asking Him to close doors and block my way if I am not going in the direction He has laid out.

1 Samuel 10:22 (NIV)
So they inquired further of the LORD, "Has the man come here yet?" And the LORD said, "Yes, he has hidden himself among the baggage."
I am still trying to figure out what this verse is saying. Perhaps Saul was humble and feeling ill-prepared for this honor. Maybe he was a little bit afraid that he was in over his head and nowhere near prepared for such an assignment as King. When we feel similar emotions we need to count on God and not ourselves. If he chose us, he will equip us.
Read 1 Samuel 8-10 here

Listen to 1 Samuel 8-10 here

The Story - Chapter 10 - 1 Samuel 3-4

October is a difficult month for me for a number of reasons. In 1998 three close family members died within three weeks of each other, one of them being my mother. I recall my brother being shy of this month for a number of years; waiting for something bad to happen. It took time to get past this type of sadness, but, eventually we were able to move on.

I am not sure why I was reminded of this as I prepared this devotional today, but it probably stems from the deaths of Eli’s two sons and then Eli himself. There is no connection other than this that I can see.

God is sovereign and all-knowing. He spoke to Samuel in his dream and gave the boy a message for his mentor, Eli.

1 Samuel 3:17-18 (NIV) "What was it he said to you?" Eli asked. "Do not hide it from me. May God deal with you, be it ever so severely, if you hide from me anything he told you."
So Samuel told him everything, hiding nothing from him. Then Eli said, "He is the LORD; let him do what is good in his eyes."

Eli’s sons were priests and were evil and acted wickedly, defiling the sacrifices made to God, “his sons made themselves contemptible and he failed to restrain them.” (1 Samuel 3:13) We can’t hide from God; we can’t disguise evil behavior, masking our hearts. God sees all and knows all. We cannot keep a secret from God. God had warned Eli, had even laid out the severe consequences that would befall his house and family.

Eli spent his entire life in service to God, but he neglected his responsibilities in his own home. We all have a job to do, an assignment God has given us and gifted us to do. If we have children, that is one of the first obligations we have…to raise them up to love and serve God and each other. Only then can we take on the rest of our earthly assignments.


Read 1 Samuel 3-4 here

Listen to 1 Samuel 3-4 here

The Story - Chapter 10 - 1 Samuel 1-2

1 Samuel 2:1-3 (NIV) “Then Hannah prayed and said: 

"My heart rejoices in the LORD;
  in the LORD my horn is lifted high.
My mouth boasts over my enemies,
  for I delight in your deliverance.
"There is no one holy like the LORD;
  there is no one besides you;
  there is no Rock like our God. 

When I think back on a few of the truly memorable Christmases, I remember one or two of the gifts received, for they helped make the holiday memorable. But, if you ask me who gave me the special gift I will remember even more fondly that detail. The gift is a blessing, and wonderful thing to have, but the person who gave that gift is even more precious.

Every Christmas morning I would find my favorite doll all dressed up in new clothes. Her hair would be tied back with a lovely satin ribbon which matched the dress she was sporting. There would also be an extra outfit or two. While I treasured this present, I valued the giver even more. My grandmother’s love was never doubted and this was one way she expressed that love.

Hannah’s Song of Thanksgiving is rejoicing in God, her LORD and giver of all good things. She is thankful to God for the special gift of her son Samuel. While this is a much larger scale, it does parallel my grandmother’s gift to me and my love for her – not the gift. Hannah prayed for a son and God honored that prayer. I often prayed to be loved and noticed and God honored that prayer too.

When Hannah prayed, she believed God would hear her plea. She had confidence in God’s sovereignty. She knew His power could fulfill the desires of her heart. She praised Him for all the good gifts he bestowed upon her and gave up control for her life to the only One who can control tomorrow.


Read 1 Samuel 1-2 here

Listen to 1 Samuel 1-2 here

The Story - Chapter 9 - Ruth 4

The Story - Chapter 9 - Ruth 4

Boaz was a man of character, God fearing and kind. He was also considered wealthy in those times. Sounds like a good catch! Boaz noticed Ruth back in chapter 2. He looked out for her, making sure she was safe and directed her to stay with his servant girls, knowing she would remain near and unharmed. It is unlikely he thought of her as a potential mate, as they were not likely compatible regarding their ages. 

Ruth was a stranger in this land; a Moabite, part of a group that was enemy to the Israelites.  Ruth became a Christ follower and accompanied Naomi to Bethlehem with very sincere intentions. She did not want Naomi to be alone. She vowed to stay with her, take care of her and follow her God, the God of Israel.

When Ruth originally made her commitment to Naomi and Naomi’s God, she had no way of knowing where that commitment would lead. God rewarded her faithfulness well beyond her lifetime. The Lord enabled Ruth to conceive a son. The text indicates that Naomi was given this infant to care for. He was to become her kinsman-redeemer, care for her in her old age, and become famous throughout Israel. He was named Obed. He was the father of Jessie, the father of David, King David—of “David and Goliath”. King David was one of the direct ancestors of the Messiah.

God has always had long range plans in place. The bible often refers to genealogy, family lines. They are important. In Matthew, the first book of the New Testament, the whole first page is devoted to the genealogy of Jesus. It begins; Abraham was the father of Isaac, Isaac the father of Jacob, Jacob the father of Judha……… It appears boring at first glance, yet holds so much promise, which is what the Lord intends. We all have heritage and genealogy that is significant. Please acknowledge your past, as it is essential for the future of your family, and all  the family of the Lord.


Read Ruth 4 here

Listen to Ruth 4 here

The Story - Chapter 9 - Ruth 3:10-18

Ruth 3:18 (NIV)
“Then Naomi said, "Wait, my daughter, until you find out what happens. For the man will not rest until the matter is settled today."

I have a feeling Naomi had been busy since returning to Bethlehem. It had been many years since her husband gathered the family up and moved from Judah to the country of Moab. At some point Elimelech, Naomi’s husband died. 

We don’t know the complete timeline, but Naomi’s sons found women to marry and after about 10 years they also died, leaving Naomi alone with two daughters-in-law.

When the older woman returned to Jerusalem, “the whole town was stirred because of them, and the women exclaimed, ‘Can this be Naomi’”? (Ruth 1:19) I know when I run into someone I haven’t seen for a number of years I question if I am seeing correctly? Time changes us, we either mature or improve with age and experience, or we become crusty and bitter and even undergo a moral change. Whatever the case, we don’t stay the same.

So, for Naomi to be guiding Ruth toward Boaz, she must have been researching his reputation and character. At the very least she talked with the women in town. She would listen intently to the talk to determine if Boaz was the right man for her daughter-in-law.

Boaz had a stellar reputation. He was a man of integrity, and maybe that is why he was so impressed with Ruth. There is quite a lesson here for us. Ruth wanted to find a second husband, but she wouldn’t want to settle for just anyone. He needed to be a man of God, one who shared her new faith. He needed to be approved by her mentor and mother-in-law, Naomi. She wasn’t hunting for someone to grow old with, she was securing her future.

This is how God wants us to seek out friends or even a spouse. Material possessions are not the gauge we should use when ascertaining worthiness, but their heart is.

  Read Ruth 3:10-18 here

Listen to Ruth 3:10-18 here

The Story - Chapter 9 - Ruth 3:1-9

Ruth 3:1 (NIV)
“One day Naomi her mother-in-law said to her, "My daughter, should I not try to find a home for you, where you will be well provided for?

I am not real sure how I feel about the verses assigned for today’s reading. At first glance it seems innocent enough; Naomi wants to make sure her daughter-in-law has a secure future. She is offering to help her find a new home. This seems a loving and caring idea. Ruth probably thinks so too, but then it gets a bit more complicated.

Ruth 3:3-4 (NIV)
"Wash and perfume yourself, and put on your best clothes. Then go down to the threshing floor, but don't let him know you are there until he has finished eating and drinking. When he lies down, note the place where he is lying. Then go and uncover his feet and lie down. He will tell you what to do."

I need to remember that the course Naomi advised appears strange to us; but it was according to the laws and customs of Israel. I also need to remember that Ruth was a virtuous woman and she was free-thinking as well. She was the one who choose to accompany Naomi to a foreign land. No one twisted her arm, but it would seem to this writer that God was directing her footsteps. It would also seem God is guiding her still again.

Read Ruth 3:1-9 here

Listen to Ruth 3:1-9 here

The Story - Chapter 8 - Ruth 2:17-23

I really enjoy a good old-fashioned story with lots of heroic good guys. If you throw in a damsel in distress and have her path cross that of the hero, you have the making of a story filled with inspiration and good will, all heading for happy endings. 

Let’s face it; our own lives are not so happy or interesting most of the time. It is appealing to read a tale of this sort, learning lessons and understanding that God is always working with our best interests in mind.

We know there has been heart ache and pain in Ruth’s past. She lost her husband and found herself a widow at an early age. This type of loss is devastating and faith shaking. It is hard to see a bright future waiting in the wings.

Ruth 2:20 (NIV)

"The LORD bless him!" Naomi said to her daughter-in-law. "He has not stopped showing his kindness to the living and the dead." She added, "That man is our close relative; he is one of our kinsman-redeemers.

Then Ruth the Moabitess said, "He even said to me, 'Stay with my workers until they finish harvesting all my grain.'"

But God did have a bright future in mind for Ruth, a knight in shining armor of sorts in the form of Boaz. He took Ruth under his wing, protected her from harm while providing for her and Naomi’s needs for food. This is a delightful love story in so many ways. Boaz seems to be faithful to God and mindful of his manners as well as tradition.

It would seem Ruth’s kindness to her mother-in-law was being repaid. God was blessing her and securing her future also. He will do the same for us. As the love story scene closes for this day we know that Ruth as caught the eye of Boaz and he is impressed with her loyalty to Naomi.  

Read Ruth 2:17-23 here

Listen to Ruth 2:17-23 here

The Story - Chapter 9 - Ruth 2:1-16

Are Your Ducks-in-a-Row yet?
Ruth 2:2 (NIV)
“And Ruth the Moabitess said to Naomi, "Let me go to the fields and pick up the leftover grain behind anyone in whose eyes I find favor." Naomi said to her, "Go ahead, my daughter."

Ruth is taking the bull by the horns. She isn’t waiting for God to drop a husband in her lap. She isn't singing the 'poor me' song; no she is taking action. 

Gleaning in the fields for wheat and barley for food was an accepted practice. In fact it was law that farmers leave some of the harvest lay for people to pick up. It could be considered a type of welfare program in Israel, allowing the poor to work the fields in this manner.

When Ruth went out into the fields, God provided for her needs. This got me to thinking of my situation. Instead of worrying about how to keep two houses going, how to pay the bills while waiting for one of my homes to sell, I need to use what God already provided.

I took out my budget, studied where I could cut some expenses and explored ways to increase my income. I realize that while it might be tight, it can be done for a period of time. I spend too much time worrying about tomorrow when I need to be more like Ruth and glean from the fields God has provided. I took a page from this book and applied it to life today. Is there a lesson here for you?

I know God will provide. I have learned to use what God has already given me, an administrative and ducks-in-row mind set, to survive and thrive. Along the way He will bless these self-sufficient ways. As we continue our journey in the Book of Ruth we will see how God blesses His faithful followers. Ruth is a prime example. Do you have an example to share?



Read Ruth 2:1-16 here

Listen to Ruth 2:1-16 here

The Story - Chapter 9 - Ruth 1:16-22

Ruth 1:20 (NIV)
"Don't call me Naomi," she told them. "Call me Mara, because the Almighty has made my life very bitter.”

Mothers-in-law are sometimes viewed as demanding, impatient, and ungrateful women who favor their own child over the child’s spouse. At first glance, today’s reading is in line with the reputation. Naomi seems to fit the description of a whiner and complainer.

Ruth 1:16 (NIV)
“But Ruth replied, "Don't urge me to leave you or to turn back from you. Where you go I will go, and where you stay I will stay. Your people will be my people and your God my God.”
 
Naomi has a loyal daughter-in-law at her side. Ruth’s love for Naomi is obvious to us, giving up a possible future with another man from her own country, to accompany her dead husband’s mother to a strange foreign land. A Moabite woman taking up residence in Israel is not the most pleasant prospect for a bright future. But Ruth adopts Naomi’s country and her God. Your people will be my people and your God my God.

Naomi may have shared her faith with her daughter-in-law for it seems from the Scripture above, that Ruth embraced her new God. That is the thing about idol worship; it can be easily replaced for another. If the one currently before us isn't doing the job, or a new trendier statue appears there is nothing to keep us faithful. But, once we are exposed to the real thing and experience a God who is real, a being we can feel in our hearts—well it is not so easy to reject that God with a clear conscience.

Naomi found herself alone in a foreign country. She had it rough, losing her husband and then her sons, something a mother never considers will happen. But God provided for this woman. He provided Ruth.

It is difficult to tell what was going on in Ruth’s heart and mind. For a Moabite widow to follow her mother-in-law to Bethlehem, in an unfriendly foreign land was incredible. But God provided for this woman too. Keep reading to see the rest of The Story.

Read Ruth 1:16-22 here

Listen to Ruth 1:16-22 here

The Story - Chapter 9 - Ruth 1:1-15

I first fell in love with the story of Ruth after reading a book by Francine Rivers called, Unshaken: Ruth, the lineage of grace series. The beauty of this narration is stunning. Then, as we begin to understand the situation and the historical timeline this becomes a unique love story.

Ruth 1:11-15 (NIV)
But Naomi said, "Return home, my daughters. Why would you come with me? Am I going to have any more sons, who could become your husbands? Return home, my daughters; I am too old to have another husband. Even if I thought there was still hope for me--even if I had a husband tonight and then gave birth to sons--would you wait until they grew up? Would you remain unmarried for them? No, my daughters. It is more bitter for me than for you, because the LORD's hand has gone out against me!" At this they wept again. Then Orpah kissed her mother-in-law good-by, but Ruth clung to her. "Look," said Naomi, "your sister-in-law is going back to her people and her gods. Go back with her."

What a frightening time in life for Ruth and Naomi. They are both widows, without bright prospects for a comfortable future. They must take things into their own hands and learn how to move forward into an uncertain tomorrow. Some of us reading this story can say, “been there, done that, and it isn’t easy.”

Naomi had a faith in God, and she shared that faith with her protégée, Ruth. And Ruth was prepared to leave all her gods behind and embrace the God of her mother-in-law. Thus begins an adventure that would eventually lead Ruth to a new land. It is obvious to the reader that God was behind all of this and He was blessing Naomi’s faith and Ruth’s obedience.


Read Ruth 1:1-15 here

Listen to Ruth 1:1-15 here

The Story - Chapter 8 - Judges 17

The Story - Chapter  8 - Judges 17

 

God has a plan for each of us. The reason for our existence is usually not clear to us but in God’s time, we fulfill our purpose. Our sinful nature often brings us to that purpose on a very round about path. We make our lives far more difficult than God intended them to be. Sometimes we learn from our behaviors-good and not so good, and on other occasions, if we pay attention, we learn from the actions of others. What can we take away from the life and deeds of Samson? I believe there are many, but the strength we think of at the mention of his name is somewhat deceiving.

The women who appeared dainty and beautiful were relentless and obviously not truly in love with Samson-it was lust that attracted them to him. The same is true of Samson’s draw to the women. One wonders why he kept going back for more when all they wanted was information from him that would cause his demise. It was likely sinful pleasure. Though Samson was known for his strength he was, in reality easily manipulated, and weak.

It was only when he looked to God that things went as they were intended to. Samson was a bully, a destroyer not a builder. He is remembered for his strength not his self control. He lived by his biceps instead of his precepts. He could get women, but was unable to keep them. He did not let God-honoring core values dictate his actions.

In the end, The Lord used Samson and his God-given strength to destroy the Philistines. That was his final mission. He was doing it out of revenge; however it was part of the plan all along-God’s plan, not Samson’s. This story brings me to the question of “the dash.” On our grave stones or urns will be the dates of our birth and death, but the dash in between is the important part. How do we live our dash? Was our time God lead, or self lead? Samson is remembered for his strength, but if closely investigated we see his strength was his greatest weakness.  I think I’m going to go examine my dash!

Read Judges 16 here

Listen to Judges 16 here

The Story - Chapter 8 - Judges 14-15

It is Saturday morning and I have company; two of my grandsons spent the night. Thus, I am a bit late in getting this post up, but sometimes there are things that take priority. I still read the story about Samson, pondered what I wanted to share, but because of the distraction it is taking longer for a ‘point’ to surface.

As a child, I heard the Samson and Delilah tale a number of times but never in the light of reality. Samson was portrayed as a great man, a hero and roll model for all. Somehow I learned that Delilah was the love of his life and the perfect mate. As an adult I recognize that is not factual. Samson was flawed and sinful the same as you and I.

God had set Samson apart from other people because he had an assignment for Him. His mother was instructed during her pregnancy with him, not to touch anything with grapes.

Judges 13:4-5 (NIV)
“ Now see to it that you drink no wine or other fermented drink and that you do not eat anything unclean, because you will conceive and give birth to a son. No razor may be used on his head, because the boy is to be a Nazirite, set apart to God from birth, and he will begin the deliverance of Israel from the hands of the Philistines."

Samson had an assignment from God, a special task only he could accomplish.

I was at a writer’s conference a few months ago and the keynote speaker shared this thought in depth with us. She said we all have a job God wants us to do, we all have a story only we can tell. If we don’t step up to the plate, our story will go untold. If we don’t listen to God and obey the commands He gives our hearts, others will suffer the loss; our story will never be heard.

Read Judges 14-15 here

Listen to Judges 14-15 here

The Story - Chapter 8 - Judges 13

I am beginning to get an entirely new picture of the men of the Bible. Until now I considered these characters as saints, men of integrity and honor. I viewed their stories on the surface only, looking at their accomplishments and often times miraculous situations. I knew God worked through them, but gave little regard to the person. Because my study time now is taking me deeper into The Story, an entirely different viewpoint is emerging.

While most of these Biblical heroes we are walking with as we explore The Story were Godly, they also had their faults and some of them were huge. During some seasons of their lives, sin engulfed them. Like us, they dealt with a world filled with temptations which pulled them away from God and the path He laid out before them. Day after day we are reading the words, “Again the Israelites did evil in the eyes of the LORD…” (Judges 13:1)

While this distresses my spirit it also provides a little relief. If the men God used to further His kingdom were flawed and sin-filled then there is hope for me too. If David can be known as A Man after God’s own Heart after his adulterous and murderous actions, then there is hope for me. All of the character’s we are reading about sinned, some of their actions make us cringe; but God used them anyway and perhaps even more so.

While it seems to be an endless theme of sin, repentance, forgiveness; sin, repentance, forgiveness; there is a similar refrain of God using the faulted and imperfect people to build His nation. Recognizing our flaws and acknowledging our evil practices allows us to approach the throne of God seeking His righteousness.

When I turned to God and ask for His mercy to fall on me, I have the assurances of His unconditional love and know that His grace will cover me. I need only turn from my worldly ways and walk away from my past toward the future He holds out to me.

Read Judges 13 here

Listen to Judges 13 here

The Story - Chapter 8 - Judges 7-8

God must be glorified in all we do. When we come out of an impossible situation, when we free fall off the edge of a cliff and land on our feet, there is only one reality to point to and that is God. When God instructed Gideon to reduce the number of warriors who would go against the Midianites to 300 men, it was to point to Him as the One who was the victor.

When God shows up in our lives, it is often for the purpose of pointing others to Him. Our testimony is most powerful when it is obvious we did not accomplish anything on our own, but only by the grace of God were we victorious. Is there a time in your life when you know without a doubt God walked with you? Can you point to a situation that only God could have orchestrated a victory?

Judges 7:7-8 (NIV)

The LORD said to Gideon, "With the three hundred men that lapped I will save you and give the Midianites into your hands. Let all the other men go, each to his own place." So Gideon sent the rest of the Israelites to their tents but kept the three hundred, who took over the provisions and trumpets of the others”
There are intervals when we feel indestructible, when we think we need not call upon God, but we cannot accomplish anything of value on our own. Self-sufficiency is a handicap when it causes us to believe we can do what needs to be done in our own strength. We can be confident of victory against life’s challenges and temptations only if we put our confidence in God and not in ourselves. - Life Application Bible Notes
Read Judges 7-8 here

Listen to Judges 7-8 here

The Story - Chapter 8 - Judges 6

God is the Hero of our Story

Judges 6:1-3 (NIV)
“Again the Israelites did evil in the eyes of the LORD, and for seven years he gave them into the hands of the Midianites. Because the power of Midian was so oppressive, the Israelites prepared shelters for themselves in mountain clefts, caves and strongholds. Whenever the Israelites planted their crops, the Midianites, Amalekites and other eastern peoples invaded the country.”

We are starting to get the picture. We are not able to do good, to obey the commands of God on our own. We must keep close to Him, we must ask for help and wisdom to make good decisions. To walk in the way of the LORD we must walk with Him. God must be our constant companion, the one to whom we turn when puzzled, troubled or imprisoned.

Judges 6:7-8 (NIV)
“When the Israelites cried to the LORD because of Midian, he sent them a prophet, who said, "This is what the LORD, the God of Israel, says: I brought you up out of Egypt, out of the land of slavery.”

When we turn to God for help, He will answer. Every day is a new day and a time to remember that we cannot do things on our own. We need God to teach and guide us. We need the safety of His arms to fall back into when we don’t know which way to turn. What does this look like? For me it is starting my day thinking of the One who loves me more than I could ever love Him.

Those mornings when I make the time to spend my first few minutes of the day talking to God, writing my prayers and concerns and then seeking His Word for me. He always shows up – and often in a very big way. By opening the door to His loving care I can trust that throughout the day, if I am on the lookout, I will be witness to His actions.

Read Judges 6 here

Listen to Judges 6 here

The Story - Chapter 8 - Judges 4

Groundhog Day-all over again
Look around at our world today. Does it resemble the days of long, long ago? The terrain and the everyday setting we live in are different. The conveniences we use as part of daily routine would not be recognizable to those who lived in the day of Deborah. Our means of transportation differ vastly, as do the appliances and other amenities we can’t live without. But, our hearts are the same. Our human desires and yearnings are similar.

I wonder how many times is our behavior is deserving of a comparable comment like the lines we read over and over again. “…the Israelites once again did evil in the eyes of the LORD.” (Judges 4:1) Examining my own past I shudder at the reality of all the times I would be deserving of this same statement.

So, what do we do about this? How do we change if, looking back, we see the same unfaithful, despicable conduct repeating throughout each generation? Recognizing the seriousness of sin is the first step toward removing it from our lives. In recovery circles, step 10 says, “We continued to take personal inventory, and when we were wrong, promptly admitted it.” This step is a key concept for change.

By examining my actions each evening before closing my eyes for sleep, I can stay on top of my actions and motives. By confessing my shortcomings on a daily basis and asking God to forgive and to change me will help with tomorrow’s outcome. God works on us every time we allow Him access to our hearts. Like the Israelites, we are given opportunity after opportunity to do the next right thing.
Read Judges 4 here

Listen to Judges 4 here

The Story - Chapter 8 - Judges 2-3

Lefty to the Rescue

Back in the day of Joshua, a left-handed individual was viewed as special, with exceptional abilities. God uses a left-handed leader in a strange way, which you will discover as you read these two chapters today. It is amazing how things change over the course of time. A generation ago, a child was discouraged from favoring their left hand. Sometimes even to the point of punishment and chastisement.

The days following Joshua’s death, his people fell back into their old ways and despicable behaviors. They worshiped idols again and rejected the One True God. We are reading how “once again the Israelites did evil in the eyes of the Lord.” (Judges 3:7,12) God turned them over to King Eglon to be ruled by him. The Israelites were subject to King Eglon for eighteen years. Are you shaking your head along with me? Is this what is meant by history repeating itself? Do we never learn? It would seem not.

In the next paragraph we read that God sent a left-handed man to deliver them.

Judges 3:15 (NIV)

Again the Israelites cried out to the LORD, and he gave them a deliverer--Ehud, a left-handed man, the son of Gera the Benjamite. The Israelites sent him with tribute to Eglon king of Moab.
I often wonder how things change so much, how a habit revered and respected in one culture is admonished and rejected in another. The point of this story today lifts up the fact God made us as we are and he will use us as we are. Others may see our strengths and gifts in a different light than we do, but He will use us if we are willing.


Read Judges 2-3 here

Listen to Judges 2-3 here

The Story - Chapter 7 - Joshua 24

The Story - Chapter 7 - Joshua 24

Joshua's Forever Message

Perhaps Joshua had grown tired of the Israelites back and forth faith. Maybe he had gotten to the point where he had to take a stand. He watched them ebb and flow with little regard for the most important thing in the word; God, who created heaven and earth and had their eternity in his hands.  Realizing he could not control what they did, he shared his heart. Joshua delivered his message about being faithful to the Lord and throwing away false gods in the most awesome way. He told them straight, in a matter of fact style, and concluded with “But as for me and my household, we will serve the Lord.”

The choice was theirs, as it is ours now. Joshua had a crystal clear vision of what he planned to do, yet felt an obligation to once again remind the Israelites they had some decisions to make.  We have the same choice every day; to serve the Lord or not to serve the Lord. We can follow his will, or choose another avenue. Choice is God’s gift to humanity, intended as a means of giving us the opportunity to respond to Him in Love.

God wants us to choose Him. He won’t force us. We have the right and privilege to make the right or wrong choice. His desire is that we turn to Him and reject all the false things we have been trusting in. He wants our exclusive devotion, yet offers us free will to decide for ourselves.

When Joshua said “and my house” I wonder what he was referring to. Did he mean all who lived in his household, or did he mean himself, and his heart being a home, a tabernacle for the Lord? We may or may not have control over what transpires in our homes, but we do direct our own hearts. We came into this world by the grace of God, and we will go out in the same way. It will be between us and Him just as it was between God and Joshua at the end of chapter 24 when Joshua was buried in the Promised Land; but  there is much more to The Story..............................

Read Joshua 24 here

Listen to Joshua 24 here

The Story - Chapter 7 - Joshua 10

God is an Awesome God!
There are so many things in this world that break our hearts, many situations that seem unfair and bring us to our knees. That is just where we should be, if we are seeking to be served by our mighty God. 

We must bow…unlike the “stiff necked” people we have been reading about. And, we must remember to pray BIG. We serve a great big God and He can do things for us we can’t even dream about.

Joshua 10:12-13 (NIV)

On the day the LORD gave the Amorites over to Israel, Joshua said to the LORD in the presence of Israel: "O sun, stand still over Gibeon, O moon, over the Valley of Aijalon." So the sun stood still, and the moon stopped, till the nation avenged itself on its enemies, as it is written in the Book of Jashar. The sun stopped in the middle of the sky and delayed going down about a full day."

I can’t even begin to imagine what it must feel like to have God stop the sun from setting, just for me. I can’t fathom God loving me so much He would change the course of nature for 24 hours so that I could fight my battles without worrying my enemy would have a chance to regroup. Every battle we engage in, every enemy we face down, can be accomplished when we call on God to fight for us. What an awesome God we have on our side!  

Read Joshua 10 here

Listen to Joshua 10 here

The Story - Chapter 7 - Joshua 8

Confess-Repent-Refocus
The focus this week seems to be on confessing our sins, receiving the grace of forgiveness and then turning from those ways which separate us from God. Changing from the inside out is the key. After watching the yo-yo style of living the Israelites practiced with regard to faithfulness and obedience, we should be able to see how much damage sin does.

When we do change our ways and practice living a life of faith and obedience, God will bless us. Joshua led his people to victory over Ai once they got their hearts right with God.

Joshua 8:1 (NIV)

“Then the LORD said to Joshua, "Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged. Take the whole army with you, and go up and attack Ai. For I have delivered into your hands the king of Ai, his people, his city and his land.”

Initially the Israelite army was defeated because of their disobedient ways, doing everything God commanded them not to do. How often do we do our own thing? How often does our own inner voice call us to account for our actions? When the conscience begins to nag – something is off kilter. When that voice in my head won’t allow me to justify my actions – something is off kilter. That voice is God nudging me to repent. It is time to recalculate and make the necessary adjustments; to either attitude or behavior.

Read Joshua 8 here

Listen to Joshua 8 here

The Story - Chapter 7 - Joshua 11

Sin keeps us from God. God and sin cannot co-exist; where sin prevails God does not reside. The time we recently spent in Exodus, Deuteronomy, and now Joshua, we witnessed some of the people turning to idol worship. They disobeyed God’s specific commands. “Israel has sinned; they have violated my covenant, which I commanded them to keep. They have taken some of the devoted things; they have stolen, they have lied, they have put them with their own possessions.” (Joshua 7:11 NIV)

Sin separates us from God and, as the Israelites experienced, that is not a comfortable situation.

Joshua 7:12 (NIV)

“That is why the Israelites cannot stand against their enemies; they turn their backs and run because they have been made liable to destruction. I will not be with you anymore unless you destroy whatever among you is devoted to destruction."

The amazing thing about God and His love for us is that he gives us repeated opportunity to turn from sinful practices and walk away from disobedience and run to Him. By admitting our wrongdoings and promising to change, we can be confident that God hears and forgives.

You may be thinking that this is easy to say, but to actually do it is another story. I agree it is often easier to go with the flow, to not upset the apple-cart. It can even be embarrassing to tell those we always hang around with that we are going to change. They may look at you as strange; you might even be called a Jesus freak.

When we take a stand like this and follow through with the changes that need to be made in our lives, we will benefit. When we walk in the light of God, we will see The Promised Land.

Read Joshua 11 here

Listen to Joshua 11 here

The Story - Chapter 7 - Joshua 6

VICTORY!

There are times when there are more questions and answers. Times when the next move we must make just does not make sense and we doubt the instructions we have been given. There are seasons when there is no accounting for the storms and the madness that appears to have overtaken our days.

Joshua 6:2-3 (NIV)

“Then the LORD said to Joshua, "See, I have delivered Jericho into your hands, along with its king and its fighting men. March around the city once with all the armed men. Do this for six days.”

God instructed Joshua and his men to overtake Jericho, one of the oldest and most heavily fortified cities they would encounter. When He issued the peculiar battle plan He assured them they would not fail if they followed His words; he said the enemy was already defeated!

God tells us the same thing. Satan may be prowling like a roaring lion, he may be hiding around every corner, he may be putting doubts and worries in our heads, but he has already been defeated. We can take comfort in that fact and blow the trumpets of victory with all the confidence of a victor. There will still be battles to fight and hearts to claim for Christ, but the outcome of the final battle is assured.


Read Joshua 6 here

Listen to Joshua 6 here

The Story - Chapter 7 - Joshua 1-2

Strength and Courage
It takes a lot of patience and direction and prayer to get through our days. There are many things that will make it difficult to maneuver the paths we have before us. Often it will seem as though we have just completed one obstacle course when another looms up ahead. But, these are the things that keep us strong, keep us focused and help us maintain an attitude of superlative living.

Conflict and challenges build character. Think back to a difficult season of life; recall how your felt after this period had passed. Once the trials are a thing of the past we generally realize the valuable role they played. During those times when we are tested and forced to act outside our comfort zone there is a sense of accomplishment and pride even.

This bring us to Joshua and the LORD’s admonishment to him as he prepares to take on Moses’ mantle of leadership –

Joshua 1:6-7 (NIV)

"Be strong and courageous, because you will lead these people to inherit the land I swore to their forefathers to give them. Be strong and very courageous. Be careful to obey all the law my servant Moses gave you; do not turn from it to the right or to the left, that you may be successful wherever you go.”

It is going to take all the strength and courage Joshua can muster to lead God’s people into the Promised Land. God is with Him and He will support him every step of the way. Faith and obedience to god brings victory. When we take on the duties of sharing the Good News with those who have not yet heard, God is with us. We need only “Be strong and very courageous.”

Read Joshua 1-2 here

Listen to Joshua 1-2 here