In Christ - I am crucified with Christ

I am crucified with Christ...

Galatians 2:20 I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me. The life I live in the body, I live by faith in the Son of God, Who loved me and gave Himself for me. 

No Longer a Slave to Sin

Joni and Friends Daily Devotional

May 22, 2011

No Longer a Slave to Sin

"For we know that our old self was crucified with Him so that the body of sin might be done away with, that we should no longer be slaves to sin - because anyone who has died has been freed from sin."                                 Romans 6:6-7

“I love the way The Living Bible presents Romans 6. ‘Should we keep on sinning when we don't have to? For sin's power over us was broken when we became Christians and we were baptized to become a part of Jesus Christ; through His death the power of your sinful nature was shattered. Your old sin-loving nature was buried with Him when He died ... your old evil desires were nailed to the cross with Him; that part of you that loves to sin was crushed and fatally wounded so that your sin-loving body is no longer under sin's control, no longer needs to be a slave to sin’ (Romans 6:2-7).

“The death of our old self is positional, which means that when we became a part of Christ, our old self was shattered. Fatally wounded, rendered inoperative. Our old sin nature has no real power. That's why in verses 11 and 12 we are to ‘count [ourselves] dead to sin but alive to God in Christ Jesus. Therefore do not let sin reign in your mortal body.’

“What a powerful command! Why are we told to count ourselves dead to sin? Because our ‘deadness’ to sin doesn't become evident in our lives until by faith we believe it. And what happens when we fail to count ourselves dead to sin? Then sin's power over us seems real, and we allow it to reign in our lives.

“Lord, thank You that through Your death, my old sin-loving nature was mortally wounded. I no longer have to sin! I have power to say no because I place my faith in You and consider myself alive to God!

“Blessings - Joni and Friends”

I can tell you with assurance that “counting yourself dead to sin” is hard work!  It’s amazing that no matter how many years down the road from conversion it’s been, I still have to “count myself dead to sin.”  I can choose to give in to sin – or I can choose to turn from it.  Sometimes it’s “easier” to give in - choosing to do the right thing EVERY TIME I have a choice to make takes a conscious effort and recognition that I DO have a choice.  There was a time in my life when things “just happened” – I felt like areas of my life were out of my control.  The TRUTH is that I hadn’t yielded those areas over to the Lordship of Jesus – and I had to come to that place of surrender and choose to give it to God – wholly and completely acknowledging the truth that I was dead to sin and alive in Christ.  I’m still a work in progress – but day-by-day I’m seeing evidence that I’m getting closer to that spiritual reality!  Sharon

PS – It’s really interesting – my “spell check” doesn’t recognize the word “sin” – it thinks it’s a misspelled word!  Isn’t that just like the world?  “Sin?  What’s that?  I’m a ‘good person!’”

In Christ - I am a new creature in Christ

I am a new creature in Christ...

II Corinthians 5:17 Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; the old has gone, the new has come

November 28, 2011

Refinished and Restored

Sharon Jaynes/Today’s Truth/KPRZ

Friend to Friend

“Junk. That’s what my family and friends thought of most of my purchases. But to me, they were treasures waiting to be revealed.

“When I was in my late teens, I had an unusual fetish for beat-up antique furniture. While most of my friends were at the mall shopping for clothes, I was at estate sales, flea markets, yard sales, and auctions hunting for antiques. Often, when I brought my purchases home, my family would roll their eyes and say, "I can't believe you paid money for that old piece of junk." But I never saw my purchases as junk. They just needed a little work…okay, sometimes a lot of work.

“At one estate sale I spied a little drop leaf kitchen table with three spindle-back chairs. I could just imagine a sweet little older lady spending many years sitting at that very table drinking her morning coffee or perhaps her afternoon tea. I could almost hear the faint whispers of thousands of conversations from generations past. The set was painted a hospital green, but I saw that it had great potential. Obviously the other bidders didn't recognize a treasure when they saw one, because ten minutes and $35 later, the set was mine.

“I brought the dinette set home, all excited about my great buy, and couldn't understand why no one else shared my enthusiasm.

"’Sharon, do you realize how much time and energy it is going to take to make that old green rickety table look even slightly presentable?’ they asked. At that point in my life, I had a lot more time than money, so the time wasn't a problem.

“Refinishing furniture is a dirty, grueling task. First, I stripped off the paint with paint remover and discovered that not only had the table been green, it had also been blue, and before that white. But underneath it all was pure walnut.

“The paint remover raised the grain of the wood, so I had to go back and sand it smooth. If the sanding isn't done well, the finished product will always be a little rough. A few joints were loose from wear and tear, so I glued them back together. Then I applied a warm walnut stain which deepened its color and made the beautiful pattern of the wood grain stand out. Finally, I applied a polyurethane coat to seal and protect the piece.

“As I worked I began to think of the old broken table as a symbol of my own life. I was also on the auction block, and God had purchased me with His Son’s precious blood. I had layers and layers of my old self that had to be stripped away to reveal the beauty hidden beneath. This raised my grain, but God sanded me with life experiences and trials to remove the rough edges. He glued my loose joints and mended my broken pieces, for He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds. Then He put a sealer not only on me but in me—the Holy Spirit—who brought out the beauty of who God created me to be.

“After I finished refurbishing the old table and chairs, I sat in the garage thinking about all that God had done in my life. My mom opened the door, looked at the old table, and said, "I never thought something so ugly could turn out to be so beautiful." I said, "Amen."

“Where are you in the refinishing process? It’s never really over, this side of heaven. But as we listen to God day by day, He will show us what needs to be stripped off, sanded away, and polished smooth to be all that He has created us to be.

“Let’s Pray

“Dear Lord, I was such a mess before You transformed me. Thank You for restoring my soul, renewing my spirit, and redeeming my life to become Your treasured possession…a true work of art.  In Jesus' name, Amen.”

I know I still have a lot of rough edges – and every day I’m reminded that being a “new creature in Christ” may be 100% true from God’s perspective – but it’s a work in progress for me.  There are so many ways I’m reminded that I’m still being conformed into His image.  But – I have HOPE that He’s going to finish what He started in me, and that’s SO much better than thinking I have to get there in my own strength!  That’s one of the blessings that are a result of God’s extravagant gift of Jesus – hope.  May you experience this Hope – and JOY - and PEACE - this Christmas weekend!  Sharon

In Christ - I am a temple of the Holy Spirit

I am the temple of the Holy Spirit...

I Corinthians 6:19,20 Do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit, Who is in you, Whom you have received from God? You are not your own; you were bought at a price. Therefore honor God with your body.  

May 4, 2010

 KPRZ – Encouragement for Today

God the Builder

 Wendy Pope 

"For every house is built by someone, but God is the builder of everything."

Hebrews 3:4 (NIV)

“Anything my nine year-old son sets his mind to, he can build.  Whether he is working with Legos, K'nex, or hammer and nails, you can count on him to build a masterpiece.   When he was only seven he informed me he planned to build a clubhouse from scrap wood the "workermen" from the construction site down the road had given him.  

“I gave him a list of logical reasons why he could not build a clubhouse.  My little guy listened, and then proceeded to tell me his logical reasons for how he could build a clubhouse.  I knew in my mind I was right, but there was no convincing my "workerman."

“It turns out I was wrong.  He built that clubhouse: a floor, four walls (including cut outs for doors and windows) and a roof.  This was proof positive he was born to build.

“There was another young man who was born to build: Jesus.  Jesus' earthly father Joseph was a carpenter by trade and customary to the times, taught his son carpentry skills.  I picture Jesus as a young child carrying His tools of the trade, honing His skills.  He probably hammered a nail or two in places His mother preferred He not. Perhaps He built benches for their humble home.  Maybe Jesus even entertained thoughts of building a clubhouse!  Yes, Jesus was born to build.

“Jesus was born to build, but His primary building project was not buildings, furniture, or other wood items. Jesus was born to construct the majestic splendor of a living temple of God - His church. He does this through the lives of God's children. Jesus is our builder, fashioning us to reflect the image of God. 

“The Greek rendering for the words "built" and "builder" in our key scripture is the same.  The definition for these words is quite interesting: to furnish, equip, prepare, make ready; of one who makes ready for a person or thing; of builders, to construct, erect, with the included idea of adorning and equipping with all things necessary. Commentaries further explain the "house built" in our key verse is not a literal house, but a spiritual house.

“God our Builder wants to erect, furnish, and prepare us to be ready to reflect His image.  His desire is to adorn and equip us, His "living temples," with all things necessary to fulfill the purpose for which we were born. So many times we deny God access to our lives, giving Him logical reasons why we could not possibly be built into His image. He stands ready to give you reasons why you can be built into the image of God. 

“Are you ready to say yes to God's master plan for your life?  He is the Builder of everything.  He wrote the blueprint of your life before you were born. Will you let Him craft your life into the masterpiece it is meant to be?

“Dear Lord, today I give You the keys to my heart, Your home.  Forgive me for keeping You locked out of parts of my life.  I want You to come into my heart and life to begin construction.  You are the Master Builder; I give You permission to do all things necessary to craft me into the masterpiece I was meant to be. In Jesus' Name, Amen.”

Once you become a child of God, you are filled with the Holy Spirit – He comes and dwells within your heart and is with you each step in the building process.  You can fight Him – you can grieve Him – you can keep Him at arm’s length –but you can’t evict Him.  Once you’re truly saved He’s there for good.  He sees every movie you watch – He knows what you’re doing with your boyfriend in the dark – He hears what comes out of your mouth – and He will gently speak to you about making better choices and  being a better witness.  I’ve been reading through Chronicles, and there are several instances when the Spirit of God is so powerfully present at the dedication of the new Temple that the priests, Levites and everyone else were on their faces in worship – they couldn’t stand in the powerful presence of God the Spirit.  It’s that same Spirit that indwells you – and me – and every other child of God.  Does His presence in our lives have that kind of impact on the people around us?  Perhaps not – but a life lived in surrender to God COULD be that powerful! May God continue building into each of our lives until we’re that kind of witness!  Sharon

In Christ - I am dead to sin

I am dead to sin...

Romans 6:1-4,17,18  What shall we say, then? Shall we go on sinning so that grace may increase?  By no means! We died to sin; how can we live in it any longer? Or don't you know that all of us who were baptized into Christ Jesus were baptized into His death?  We were therefore buried with Him through baptism into death in order that, just as Christ was raised from the dead through the glory of the Father, we too may live a new life. But thanks be to God that, though you used to be slaves to sin, you wholeheartedly obeyed the form of teaching to which you were entrusted. You have been set free from sin and have become slaves to righteousness. 

Joni and Friends Daily Devotional/May 23, 2011

"What shall we say, then? Shall we go on sinning so that grace may increase? By no means? We died to sin; how can we live in it any longer?"  Romans 6:1-2

“I can hear you saying, ‘But that's impossible.  We may be Christians, but we're still human beings and sin is a fact of life.’ Yes, I agree that sin is a fact of life. We are free of its power, but sin's presence is still everywhere, tempting and enticing us. But does sin have to be our master? No! Never!

“Romans 6:14 is your emancipation proclamation: ‘For sin shall not be your master, because you are not under law, but under grace.’

“Dr. Martin Lloyd-Jones shares a wonderful illustration of this in one of his commentaries. He describes the kingdom of Satan and the kingdom of God as two fields.  When we become Christians, Jesus rescues us out of the Devil's dry, rocky pasture and places us in His green fields. But that old master, the Devil, yells at us from his side of the fence. We hear him cracking his whip and telling us to get back into his field where we belong. Fear and intimidation make us listen to his lies, and before you know it, we climb back over the fence. What's amazing is that we don't have to! The Devil is not our master!

"’You have been set free from sin and have become slaves to righteousness’ (Romans 6:18).

“Close your ears to the Devil's lies.  Understand that fear and intimidation are a part of his strategy to force you back into his territory. You died to sin and it is no longer your master. Grace is all you need to say, ‘No, Satan, my master is Jesus, and I wouldn't dare set a foot outside His kingdom.’

“Free at last, free at last!  In Jesus, I am free from the power of sin over my life!”

There are some days when it’s REALLY hard to believe that I’m dead to sin – I find myself struggling with a bad attitude or impure thoughts – and it seems like sin is alive and well in my life.  At those times I have to remind myself that I am no longer in bondage to sin – and that in the strength and power of Jesus Christ, I am not only an over comer – I am DEAD to sin!  That doesn’t happen without effort on my part – I have to “reckon” myself dead to sin – I have to SEE myself as dead to sin – and I have to ACT in a way that says I’m dead to sin.  When I feel myself failing I can either give in – or cry out to God for the strength I need to live this truth.  On this side of heaven I will NEVER be perfect – but I CAN live in victory over those areas of sin in my life that keep me from experiencing the fullness of life promised to me by God.  And – when I fail – I know it’s not the end of the world – or the end of my relationship with Christ. I can pick myself up – repent – and ask God for the strength not to fail in that way again!  Are you faced with temptation that feels overwhelming?  KNOW that He is able to keep you from falling – and that “in Him” you can overcome!  Sharon

In Christ - I am at peace with God

I am at peace with God...

Romans 5:1,2 Therefore, since we have been justified through faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom also we have access by faith into this grace in which we stand, and rejoice in hope of the glory of God.

Psalms 29:11 The LORD gives strength to His people; the LORD blesses His people with peace. 

Psalms 85:8 I will listen to what God the LORD will say; He promises peace to His people, His saints--but let them not return to folly. 

Psalms 119:165 Great peace have they who love Your law, and nothing can make them stumble. 

Isaiah 26:3 You will keep in perfect peace him whose mind is steadfast, because he trusts in You. 

Isaiah 54:10 "Though the mountains be shaken and the hills be removed, yet My unfailing love for you will not be shaken nor My covenant of peace be removed," says the LORD, Who has compassion on you. 

June 24, 2010

The Treasure of Thrown Away Food

Lysa TerKeurst

"But thanks be to God, who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ."
1 Corinthians 15:57 (NIV)

Devotion:

If there was ever a secret for unleashing God's powerful peace in a situation, it's developing a heart of true thanksgiving. My son, Jackson, knows this.  I came to understand how powerfully he knows this when editing a paper he wrote recently. Jackson hasn't always lived in the safety and security of our home.  For the first 13 years of his life, he lived in a forgotten orphanage in the third world country of Liberia, Africa.

Jackson's paper was about the corruption and greed that caused the civil war in his native land. He did a great job recounting the facts of the story. But the difference between Jackson and most other kids explaining a historical event, is before we adopted him - he lived in the midst of the horrific conditions of this war.

During one part of the paper, he described what it felt like to be naked digging through the trash looking for the treasure of thrown away food.

The treasure of thrown away food.

I can hardly type those words without crying. This is my son.

And yet, despite the horrific conditions of his childhood there was an unexplainable thread of peace woven through his recollection of the story. A powerful peace centered in the awareness of God's presence. 

The truly thankful person is a truly peaceful person. They have made a habit no matter what to notice, pause and choose.

Noticing something for which to be thankful no matter what circumstance they're in.

Pausing to acknowledge this something as a reminder of God's presence.

Choosing to focus on God's presence until His powerful peace is unleashed.

I doubt any of us will find our treasure in thrown away food today. But will we be a noticer, a pauser, a chooser - a person of thanksgiving no matter what circumstance we're facing?

I find this truth about the power of thanksgiving over and over in Scripture. What was the prayer Daniel prayed right before being thrown in the lion's den and witnessing God miraculously shutting the lion's mouths? Thanksgiving.

After three days in the belly of a fish, what was the cry of Jonah's heart right before he was finally delivered onto dry land? Thanksgiving.

How are we instructed to pray in Philippians 4:6 when we feel anxious? With thanksgiving.

And what is the outcome of each of these situations where thanksgiving is proclaimed? Peace. Powerful, unexplainable, uncontainable peace.

"And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus," (Philippians 4:7, NIV).

One of Webster's official definitions of thanksgiving is: "a public acknowledgment or celebration of divine goodness."

I wonder how we might celebrate God's divine goodness today?

I wonder what might happen if we decide in the midst of our circumstances today to notice, pause, and choose something for which we can truly be thankful....

Dear Lord, will You help me to notice things for which I can be thankful in each circumstance I face today?  Will You help me remember to pause and acknowledge this as evidence of Your presence?  And will You help me to remember to choose to focus on Your presence until Your powerful peace rushes into my heart and helps me see everything more clearly?  Thank You for the reality that being thankful truly changes everything. In Jesus' Name, Amen.

The peace of God is a promise – and a blessing – something we don’t deserve but that He freely bestows upon us.  I also see that we have a part in experiencing that peace – it’s there for us – for all His children – but I think we can miss out on it if we don’t do our part.  What’s that?  What do WE need to do to experience His peace?  The devotion made a really good point that we need to be thankful – but I think there’s more we can do.  We are admonished “not to return to folly” – in other words – don’t go back to those things that caused you to miss out on God’s peace in the first place!  Don’t go back into a life of sin! Don’t return to the “vomit”(Pr 26:11) of your former life!  Doing so will rob you of His peace.  We need to love His law – His word – those who do will experience His peace.  Are you reading the Word daily?  Is knowing His word a priority in your life?  If you’re not experiencing His peace, try spending daily, consistent time in the Word. And lastly – are you steadfast in the Lord?  Have you purposed in your heart to follow Him and Him alone? Do you choose to trust Him with your life – with your choices – with your circumstances?  When/if you do, then His peace is assured!  Don’t wait for peace to “happen” in your life – do what you need to do to experience the peace God’s already promised!  Be thankful – be committed to following the Lord – be in the Word – and be steadfast in Him – and the peace of God will rule and reign in your heart!  Sharon

In Christ - I am valued by God

I am valued by God...

Matthew 10:29-31 Are not two sparrows sold for a penny? Yet not one of them will fall to the ground apart from the will of your Father. And even the very hairs of your head are all numbered.  So don't be afraid; you are worth more than many sparrows.

Joni and Friends Daily Devotional
May 3, 2011

“English sparrows. They're worth barely a penny, Jesus said so. Yet of the world's nine thousand bird species, Jesus singled out the least-noticed and most insignificant of birds to make a point.

“If God takes time to keep tabs on every sparrow-who it is, where it's going, whether or not its needs are being met- then surely He keeps special tabs on you. Intimately. Personally. And with every detail in mind.

“The Bible may point to eagles to underscore courage and power, and it may talk about doves as symbols of peace and contentment. But God's Word reserves sparrows to teach a lesson about trust. Just as God tenderly cares for a tiny bird, even making note of when it is harmed, or when it falls to the ground, He gently reminds you that He is worthy of your greatest trust, your deepest confidence.

“How do you approach God today? Maybe you feel like a ragamuffin house sparrow clinging to an empty birdfeeder with no one to care. Stop and remember the facts behind Matthew 10:29. God does care. He notices.

“Try trusting the Lord today as would a sparrow. No questions asked. No fears that He won't come through. Relax in the protection and provision of your great God.

“Father, it's astounding to think that with so many things to care for, You have a heart for people the world considers small and insignificant. Forgive me for not believing that You not only notice but intimately care for every detail of my life. Help me today to believe You for the small things. May I see every detail as an opportunity to trust You.”

I don’t know about you – but the timing of this scripture is perfect for me!  Having an empty townhouse that needs to be rented so I can pay two mortgages is a source of stress and anxiety – even though I know it shouldn’t be.  SO – I’m practicing the same thing I tell all the ladies who come to our group – trust God – believe that He’s got your back – your front – your sides – He’s surrounding you and ready to provide for your every need!  What I’m learning now is that I don’t “need” as much as I think.  I “WANT” a lot – but my needs are being provided, and I know that I can trust God to see me through until the townhouse has tenants and my cash-flow improves.  “Help me Lord to trust you in this – to rest in the security that You are in control!”  I’ll be spending time this weekend watching the little sparrows that come to my backyard to eat – and remembering that just as God has His eye on them, He has His eye on me! 

Sharon

In Christ - I am the salt of the earth and the light of the world

I am the salt of the earth and the light of the world...

Matthew 5:13-16 You are the salt of the earth. But if the salt loses its saltiness, how can it be made salty again? It is no longer good for anything, except to be thrown out and trampled by men.  You are the light of the world. A city on a hill cannot be hidden.  Nor do they light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a lampstand, and it gives light to all who are in the house.  Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven.

The Cave People
by Max Lucado
He came to the world that was His own, but His own people did not accept Him.
John 1:11
“LONG AGO, OR maybe not so long ago, there was a tribe in a dark, cold cavern.

“The cave dwellers would huddle together and cry against the chill. Loud and long they wailed. It was all they did. It was all they knew to do. The sounds in the cave were mournful, but the people didn't know it, for they had never known joy. The spirit in the cave was death, but the people didn't know it, for they had never known life.

“But then, one day, they heard a different voice. ‘I have heard your cries,’ it announced. ‘I have felt your chill and seen your darkness. I have come to help.’

“The cave people grew quiet. They had never heard this voice. Hope sounded strange to their ears. ‘How can we know you have come to help?’

"’Trust me,’ he answered. ‘I have what you need.’

"The cave people peered through the darkness at the figure of the stranger. He was stacking something, then stooping and stacking more.

"’What are you doing?’ one cried, nervous.

“The stranger didn't answer.

"’What are you making?’ one shouted even louder.

“Still no response.

"’Tell us!’ demanded a third.

“The visitor stood and spoke in the direction of the voices. ‘I have what you need.’ With that he turned to the pile at his feet and lit it. Wood ignited, flames erupted, and light filled the cavern.

“The cave people turned away in fear. ‘Put it out!’ they cried. ‘It hurts to see it.’

‘Light always hurts before it helps,’ he answered. ‘Step closer. The pain will soon pass.’

"’Not I,’ declared a voice.

"’Nor I,’ agreed a second.

"’Only a fool would risk exposing his eyes to such light.’

“The stranger stood next to the fire. ‘Would you prefer the darkness? Would you prefer the cold? Don't consult your fears. Take a step of faith.’

“For a long time no one spoke. The people hovered in groups covering their eyes. The fire builder stood next to the fire. ‘It's warm here,’ he invited.

"’He's right,’ one from behind him announced. ‘It's warmer.’ The stranger turned and saw a figure slowly stepping toward the fire. ‘I can open my eyes now,’ she proclaimed. ‘I can see.’

"’Come closer,’ invited the fire builder.

“She did. She stepped into the ring of light. ‘It's so warm!’ She extended her hands and sighed as her chill began to pass.

"’Come, everyone! Feel the warmth,’ she invited.

"’Silence, woman!’ cried one of the cave dwellers. ‘Dare you lead us into your folly? Leave us. Leave us and take your light with you.’

“She turned to the stranger. ‘Why won't they come?’

"’They choose the chill, for though it's cold, it's what they know. They'd rather be cold than change.’

"’And live in the dark?’

"’And live in the dark.’

“The now-warm woman stood silent. Looking first at the dark, then at the man.

"’Will you leave the fire?’ he asked.

"She paused, then answered, ‘I cannot. I cannot bear the cold.’ Then she spoke again. ‘But nor can I bear the thought of my people in darkness.’

"’You don't have to,’ he responded, reaching into the fire and removing a stick. ‘Carry this to your people. Tell them the light is here, and the light is warm. Tell them the light is for all who desire it.’

“And so she took the small flame and stepped into the shadows.”

From A Gentle Thunder
Copyright (Thomas Nelson, 1995) Max Lucado

If you live in San Diego, then you’ll remember the blackout that happened not that long ago – lights were out all over the city – and didn’t come back on until the early morning hours of the next day.  Many people were in siege mode – prepared to “survive” however long it took to get the power back on.  Others were outside, talking to neighbors, helping people who had no light to see where they were going – get into their homes - or share food cooked over a barbeque grill.  Two different responses to the same crisis.  It doesn’t take much thought to determine where Jesus would have been – I don’t think He’d have been hunkered down inside waiting for the lights to come on!  He would have been out with the people – sharing whatever He had – and that’s how He wants His followers to be.  Are you going to stay in your cave – in the dark – or are you going to take the light He’s given you and share it with the world?  I can tell you which one will be more rewarding – but I think you already know, don’t you?  Be the light in your corner of this dark world!  Sharon

In Christ - I am loved by God

I am loved by God...

Jeremiah 31:3  The LORD appeared to us in the past, saying: "I have loved you with an everlasting love; I have drawn you with loving-kindness." 

Romans 8:38,39 For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord. 

Ephesians 3:17-19 And I pray that you, being rooted and established in love, may have power, together with all the saints, to grasp how wide and long and high and deep is the love of Christ, and to know this love that surpasses knowledge--that you may be filled to the measure of all the fullness of God. 

I John 4:16-19 And so we know and rely on the love God has for us. God is love. Whoever lives in love lives in God, and God in him. In this way, love is made complete among us so that we will have confidence on the day of judgment, because in this world we are like Him. There is no fear in love. But perfect love drives out fear, because fear has to do with punishment. The one who fears is not made perfect in love.  We love because He first loved us. 

April 27, 2011

Pursued
Lynn Cowell
"But now, this is what the LORD says — he who created you, Jacob, he who formed you, Israel: 'Do not fear, for I have redeemed you; I have summoned you by name; you are mine... Since you are precious and honored in my sight, and because I love you, I will give people in exchange for you, nations in exchange for your life.'" Isaiah 43:1, 4 (NIV)

Devotion:

“I sit in the dark room, my heart beating wildly. "Hurry! Hurry!" my mind cries out. "You'll be too late!"

“It doesn't matter that I already know what will happen. The thrill of the pursuit and a heroic rescue sends my heart pounding every time.

“I may be a little strange, but I know I'm not alone. Countless women curl up on their couches to watch the same chick flicks over and over, especially the ones where the hero gives everything to save the girl. Like the one rescued in movies, we want to be desired, fought for — pursued. And we are.

“Someone is pursuing us but it's so much better than what happens in the movies. Our Creator and King is pursuing us. He gave up His life and paid a great price to come and rescue us.

“There were times in my life where I had seen Jesus as my savior, shepherd and friend. But it wasn't until I read these verses below and realized the magnitude and depth of His love for me that I saw how valuable I am to Him.

"Don't be afraid, I've redeemed you. I've called your name. You're mine. When you're in over your head, I'll be there with you. When you're in rough waters, you will not go down. When you're between a rock and a hard place, it won't be a dead end — Because I am God, your personal God, The Holy of Israel, your Savior. I paid a huge price for you: all of Egypt, with rich Cush and Seba thrown in! That's how much you mean to me! That's how much I love you! I'd sell off the whole world to get you back, trade the creation just for you."  Isaiah 43:1b-4 (The Message)

“He'd give up everything just for me? That's crazy! But that's the radical love that revolutionized my life.

“When I learned these verses, I began to see a side of Jesus I had never seen before. He pursues me. He loves me more than anything. And He wants to be my everything.

“This truth satisfied a deep longing in my heart I didn't even know I had. It was what I wanted then, and what I still need to know every day. This is the love that fills the gaps in my wanting heart and settles the question, "Am I valuable enough to be pursued?"

“Yes, I am. And so are you, my friend. So are you.

“Dear Lord, this part of me that wants to be pursued and rescued...You created it. You created it to be filled by Your unconditional love. Jesus, thank You that You will never grow tired of me or stop pursing me. You want me. In Jesus' Name, Amen”

Oh, the love of God – the depth and width and height and breadth of which we cannot imagine.  As I read through the Old Testament, I see His faithful love pursuing Israel – not for days or years – or even just for decades – He has pursued His people for MILLENNIA!  And – despite the fact that they rejected Him – killed Him – He is still pursuing them to this day.  He hasn’t given up on them – in THOUSANDS of years – so why do we think He’ll give up on us?  Can we outlast the children of Israel in their disobedience? Not hardly!  Can we outlast the mercy and grace of God that continued to pursue even when we didn’t want Him to?  Thank God that the answer to that question is “NO!”  Once you are His child, He will pursue you to the ends of the earth – to the end of your life.  Aren’t you tired of running from that kind of love?  Stop – turn into His arms – and let His love for you spill over you!  When you can really “get” how much He loves you – how much He’s been willing to endure for you – it will be enough.  Enough to quiet those doubts about your worthiness.  Enough to squelch the voice of the enemy who would want you to wallow in your pain.  Let HIS love set you free!  Sharon“You'd think I'd never seen this movie before, but I have. In fact, I've watched it over and over. I know the hero will get there just in time. He will come to the rescue right at the last second and yell, "She goes free!" to the captain and his crew. I know he will risk his life to save hers.

__________________________

Sharon Pearce, Director

Silent Voices International

www.silentvoices.org

svoices@pacbell.net

619-422-0757

In Christ - I am always in God's thoughts

I am always in God's thoughts...

Psalms 139:17,18 How precious to me are Your thoughts, O God! How vast is the sum of them!  Were I to count them, they would outnumber the grains of sand. When I awake, I am still with You. 

Isaiah 49:15-16 "Can a mother forget the baby at her breast and have no compassion on the child she has borne? Though she may forget, I will not forget you!  See, I have engraved you on the palms of My hands; your walls are ever before Me."  

Jeremiah 29:4-13 Thus says the LORD of hosts, the God of Israel, to all who were carried away captive, whom I have caused to be carried away from Jerusalem to Babylon; “Build houses and dwell in them; plant gardens and eat their fruit.  Take wives and beget sons and daughters; and take wives for your sons and give your daughters to husbands, so that they may bear sons and daughters - that you may be increased there, and not diminished.  And seek the peace of the city where I have caused you to be carried away captive, and pray to the LORD for it; for in its peace you will have peace.  For thus says the LORD of hosts, the God of Israel: Do not let your prophets and your diviners who are in your midst deceive you, nor listen to your dreams which you cause to be dreamed.  For they prophesy falsely to you in My name; I have not sent them, says the LORD.  For thus says the LORD: After seventy years are completed at Babylon, I will visit you and perform My good word toward you, and cause you to return to this place. For I know the plans I have for you, declares the LORD, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.  Then you will call upon Me and go and pray to Me, and I will listen to you.  And you will seek Me and find Me, when you search for Me with all your heart.

October 27, 2011
Never Lost
Gwen Smith
Today’s Truth

See, I have engraved you on the palms of my hands... (Isaiah 49:16a)

Friend to Friend

A few years ago our family got a bouncy little puppy named Roman. One of the first things we did when Roman became a Smith was head to the pet store for doggie supplies. In addition to purchasing chew toys, a collar, and food, we ordered Roman a nameplate to go on his collar in case he ever gets lost. The cashier sold us two tokens for the tag, and sent us to the other side of the store to the engraving machine.          

The kids and I approached the engraving machine with giddy hearts. After we slid the two metal tokens into the coin slot, we looked at our ID options and settled on the blue bone for Roman’s collar. Then the engraving machine prompted us to enter Roman’s puppy information. Once we were satisfied that all the information was accurate, I gave the command for the computer to begin the engraving.           

The machine engraved just one letter at a time. With each stroke of the machine’s needle, Roman’s name began to appear, along with our address and phone number. When the engraving was finished, we immediately put the tag onto Roman’s collar. The blue bone boasts that Roman belongs to the Smith family.           

For us, in this world, we have to put our names on things so we don’t lose them. We put our names on our luggage, on our pet collars, on our backpacks, and in our Bibles. I even have a “page” button on my cordless phone so it can beep when I lose the phone in my house. I’ve also been known to lose my keys, my driver’s license, my cell phone and my purse. (Scary!)
Thankfully, God doesn’t have the same problem with losing things. He doesn’t need to put His name on anything. What’s His is His forever.           

If you have placed your faith in Jesus Christ, take comfort in the fact that you can never be lost and that you are never out of God’s sight. There might be times when you feel invisible - times when you feel lost – times when you stubbornly choose your ways over His – or times when you feel alone, but the Bible tells us that your name is engraved on the palms of God’s hands, and that nothing can separate you from God’s love or snatch you from His hand. Nothing.

“I'm absolutely convinced that nothing—nothing living or dead, angelic or demonic, today or tomorrow, high or low, thinkable or unthinkable—absolutely nothing can get between us and God's love because of the way that Jesus our Master has embraced us.” Romans 8:38-39,
MSG

“My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me. I give them eternal life, and they will never perish, and no one will snatch them out of my hand. My Father, who has given them to me, is greater than all, and no one is able to snatch them out of the Father’s hand.” John 10:27-29, ESV

“All whom My Father gives (entrusts) to Me will come to Me; and the one who comes to Me I will most certainly not cast out [I will never, no never, reject one of them who comes to Me].” John 6:37, AMP

God knows your name. He knows where you live. He’s got your number. You’re never lost. Praise Him!

Let’s Pray

Heavenly Father, Thank you for engraving my name on the palms of your hands. Please help me to remember the way home when I get lost, distracted or confused. “Because Your love is better than life, and my lips will glorify you!” (Psalm 63:3, NIV)
In Jesus’ Name,
Amen.

Have you ever lost a pet?  I thought I had one night recently – and even though he had a collar and tag, I wasn’t sure he’d let anyone get close enough to him to catch him and bring him to safety – even me.  He’s a bit of a “fraidy cat” – you will probably never see him if you come to my house to visit – and I have yet to be able to hold and snuggle him since my move into my new house last month – that’s how skittish he is.  And it’s really silly – I’m not going to hurt him – I want to lavish him with love and attention – I want him to know he’s my beautiful boy and give him kisses on his little pick nose – but he’ll have none of it.  I have to admit that there have been times in my life that I’ve been that way with God – a bit skittish in His presence – not sure what His mood was – afraid to let Him get too close for fear of what He might do.  Looking back I realize just how silly that was!  God is always thinking about me – always looking out for my best – always wanting to show me how much He loves me!  I don’t ever have to be afraid of Him – if I’ve come to Him on His terms then I’m His child – and my name is engraved on the palm of His hands – forever!  If you’re like my Stashe, relax and let God love on you today!  Sharon

In Christ - I am washed clean from my sins

I am washed clean from my sins...

Isaiah 1:18 "Come now, let us reason together," says the LORD. "Though your sins are like scarlet, they shall be as white as snow; though they are red as crimson, they shall be like wool."

Ezekiel 36:25 I will sprinkle clean water on you, and you will be clean; I will cleanse you from all your impurities and from all your idols. 

Joni and Friends Daily Devotion – February 16, 2009

“Wash me throughly from mine iniquity, and cleanse me from my sin (KJV).  Psalm 51:2

“

Because I cannot reach for a Bible and flip open the pages with my hands, I make it a point to memorize scripture. It's the only way I can have the Word of God at my fingertips! For me, memorizing portions of the Bible is very practical.  I use the King James Version of the Bible when I commit God's Word to memory. The words are uncommon - a little like poetry - and my mind seems to retain it easier.

“When I was memorizing Psalm 51, I stopped short at the second verse.  It says, "Wash me throughly from mine iniquity."  At first I thought it was a printing error, but after a little research, I learned it was the Elizabethan-English-way of saying "through and through." You could paraphrase it, "Wash me through and through from my iniquity."  It's not many times I prefer English from the 16th century, but this time I did. I don't want God to merely scrub me good on the outside - it's not a matter of cleansing me from my sin - but washing me clean, clear through.

“The word "throughly" doesn't exist anymore. When I wrote it on my computer, my automatic spell check kept trying to change it to thoroughly. But I'm with Shakespeare, Queen Elizabeth, and King James on this one.  I don't want God to do a surface job on my character; I want him to get rid of every vestige of deep-down hidden sins.

 * * * * * * * *

“First Thessalonians 5:23-24 says (in modern English), "May God himself, the God of peace, sanctify you through and through. May your whole spirit, soul and body be kept blameless at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ." From what hidden or secret sins can you ask God to wash you through and through today?

“Lord, I confess______________________. Thank you for forgiving me and completely cleansing me from all unrighteousness. Safeguard my heart and mind and keep me pure.”

This reminds me of a recent situation I was faced with – whether or not to have old carpets cleaned, or have them removed and new carpet installed. The stains were deep and dark – and I had more than one person tell me that if the carpets were cleaned that the deep, ground in stain would resurface – in a few months the carpet would look just as bad as it did before I had them cleaned.  As expensive as it was, I opted to have the old carpets removed, and replaced the padding and carpet.  Now I don’t have to worry about an old stain coming up and ruining my new carpet!  How many times in my own life have I been willing to do the “cheap” fix on the filth in my heart – I’d submit to the surface cleaning – but what I really needed was a NEW spirit and a new self – and when I finally understood that and came to God on His terms, that’s exactly what I got – a clean slate – a brand new heart and soul!  There are times when I think back to the stains of sin in my life – not with guilt and regret - but with gratitude that He’s made me “white as snow!”  If you know there’s something you need to take to the Father, I encourage you to do so quickly – let Him wash you through and through!  Sharon

In Christ - I am a child of God

I am a child of God...

Psalms 68:5 A Father to the fatherless, a defender of widows, is God in His holy dwelling. 

John 1:12,13 Yet to all who received Him, to those who believed in His name, He gave the right to become children of God--children born not of natural descent, nor of human decision or a husband's will, but born of God. 

Romans 8:14-15 Because those who are led by the Spirit of God are sons of God.  For you did not receive a spirit that makes you a slave again to fear, but you received the Spirit of sonship. And by Him we cry, <"Abba,> Father."  

I John 3:1  How great is the love the Father has lavished on us, that we should be called children of God! And that is what we are!

April 21, 2010 

Embraced by the Father

Susanne Scheppmann 

"How great is the love the Father has lavished on us, that we should be called children of God! And that is what we are! The reason the world does not know us is that it did not know him." 1 John 3:1 (NIV)

Devotion:

Her smile lit up the room when her daddy entered. Her rosebud lips spread into a wide beam of a smile. Her silky black hair leapt about her face as she bounced excitedly on the balls of her feet. She looked like Snow White after a large cup of espresso. The man started the music and began to walk toward her. He stopped and opened wide his muscular arms—the familiar invitation to dance. She raced to him and perched herself atop his feet. They began two-stepping to their special song, "My Personal Penguin." The princess was dancing with her Prince Charming—her daddy.

Bittersweet joy washed over me like a warm spring rain as I witnessed this scene between my son and granddaughter. Happiness for my granddaughter flowed into my heart, but there was also a tinge of sadness. I regretted never having experienced the same type of father-daughter relationship with my earthly dad.

My own father resembled the character of Rhett Butler from Gone with the Wind. He was suave, handsome, and self-assured, but a rogue. I traveled through my childhood and adolescence wishing for a Rhett Butler type of man to whisk me off my feet. I desired a rogue to embrace me with a wild and untamed love. Because of my "father image," I actually desired imperfect love from people. A flawed love would hurt, but it still appealed to my broken heart. I believed falsely that love could only be achieved through volatile sparks of emotion, fueled by the uncertainty of the love.

Of course, it was all a misguided representation of a girl's broken heart. But now, I have learned to know a perfect love—the love of my heavenly Father. Only He has been able to fill my heart with a perfect love. The night I accepted His love, He began to reveal to me the character of a faultless Father. As the Father embraced me, my idea of errant love slid into oblivion. I learned the true meaning of love as I gained knowledge of God. He taught me His characteristics and personality through the diversity of His names, but my favorite will always be Father—Abba—my Daddy.

Do you know Abba—the heavenly Father? He is waiting for you with His arms wide open.  Come and be embraced by the Father.

I know I’ve been blessed to have a daddy who showers me with love – even to this day I know that he’ll do anything to make sure I’m happy, healthy and safe.  There’s never been a time in my life when I doubted his love for me.  Was he perfect?  No.  But neither am I!  AND – he’s pretty darned close!  SO – it’s been easy for me to believe that God loves me, too.  I know that’s not the case for many women – they didn’t have the kind of dad I had, so they’ve gone looking for love in all the wrong places – which usually doesn’t end well.  The awesome news about our Heavenly Father is that no matter how far we’ve gone from His side, we can always come back.  Do you feel isolated – cut off from the Father’s love?  Run to Him – jump into His arms – let Him whisper in your ear.  I’ll bet you hear how much He loves you – always has – and always will.  Learn to trust that love – let it guide you – direct you – protect you – provide for you.  Your Heavenly Father has good plans for you!  Sharon