Are we fruitful or just plain fruit?
Grand Sweep Daily Reading: 2 Chronicles 25, 26; Psalms 86, 87
Genesis 17:6; 28:3 (NIV)
17:6 I will make you very fruitful; I will make nations of you, and kings will come of you.
28:3 May God Almighty bless you and make you fruitful and increase your numbers until you become a community of peoples.
Leviticus 26:9 (NIV)
I will look on you with favor and make you fruitful and increase your numbers, and I will keep my covenant with you.
Hosea 14:8(b) (NIV)
I am like a green pine tree; your fruitfulness comes from me.
John 15:1-2 (NIV)
1 “I am the true vine, and my Father is the gardener. 2 He cuts off every branch in me that bears no fruit, while every branch that does bear fruit He prunes so that it will be even more fruitful.”
Good morning!
I remember the first time I had to brush my teeth with soap for calling something “fruit” in front of my mother. She despised that word when we used it with a slang connotation. Fruit is a sweet treat! It grows in trees, on bushes, and even running vines. We pick it, wash it, and eat it. Some of my favorite fruits are oranges, bananas, strawberries and raspberries. When I was a child, my favorite treat was mother’s blueberry dessert. Grandmother used to make a great gooseberry pie; I must warn you that one must have a taste for the bittersweet to enjoy this almost extinct delicacy.
What does it mean to be fruitful? Webster’s Dictionary teaches that the word fruitful is an adjective, meaning yielding or producing fruit, conducive to an abundant yield. From the beginning of Genesis and peppered throughout scripture, we see God instructing His children to “be fruitful and multiply.” Multiplication has never been my strong suit. I can do it if I write the problem out on paper and double check my work with a calculator. When we take two or more numbers and multiply them, the answer hopefully is larger than the numbers we started with. Now you know why I struggle so with math. How do we take these numbers and multiply them for kingdom work? I believe the answer does not lie in our capabilities. Fruitfulness is a gift extended from the hand of our Lord, Jesus Christ.
Before we began trying to make covenant with the Lord, He covenanted with each of us. It was God who created you and me. He made us with purpose. Our life blood flows from Him and mustard seed faith was planted within our souls long before we became a verified heartbeat on the ultrasound monitor. Like the umbilical cord that feeds and nourishes us in the womb, the vine that we grow from is a direct link to our Lord, the giver of everlasting life.
Whenever I entertain, I love preparing fruit platters for people to enjoy. Mounds of grapes, chunked pineapple, whole strawberries, fresh orange slices, and as assortment of round berries make a nice presentation on the buffet table. Fruit is even better when served with sweet dip, or better yet, chocolate sauce. Thinking about it makes my mouth water. We know we are in for a sweet treat when we taste the many fruits our Father has created for our enjoyment. In this upside-down, crazy world, we’ve somehow forgotten that the sweet fruit of faith is not something we do, it is a gift that God offers to each of us.
How do we know when fruitfulness takes root and grows? I know some pretty wonderful people who have given their lives to Jesus Christ and promised to serve Him in pastoral ministry. They have worked hard for many years to plant seeds of faith everywhere they go. It is not always easy measuring fruitfulness. We think we can see it mass numbers. Many pastors consider large, overflowing church buildings a sign of fruitfulness and success. When faithfulness brings people into relationship with Jesus Christ, the evidence may not always show immediately, or in physical numbers. I can name numerous pastors and teachers that have planted seeds of faith in my life and some of those seeds are just now beginning to sprout up and grow. Does that mean that because I didn’t act on faith until now, that those pastors were considered ineffective? I hardly think so. Seeds of faith are gifts of God, and as we grow in Him, God uses the believers placed in our path to help us grow and mature into a strong and healthy vine.
We may never know who we may touch with our thoughts, words, and witness in the world. As we seek to serve the Lord Jesus Christ with our very lives, we must not look at just physical numbers to determine whether our ministries are fruitful. We must trust God – He is the master gardener and He sees what we cannot possibly vision with our physical eyes. He looks upon the heart of every person emerging through someone's faithful witness. New plants spring forth every day because of faith seeds that are planted, sometimes, years ago. They may lay dormant for a season, and then, the Lord of life nourishes that seedling with the help of you and me, and new life springs up!
How do we measure fruitfulness? We look to the Lord, the giver of all sweet fruit. While it may be tempting to tag a fruitful ministry by sheer numbers, we may never know the value of one little seed planted in faith and how it can grow into something extraordinarily sweet and beautiful for the Lord in the days and years ahead. Do not be discouraged when you plant your seeds of faith today and wonder if you'll ever see the results. Remember who the master gardener is, and trust Him to take your humble offering and use it for His kingdom.
Grace and peace,
Deb Spaulding
www.songofdeborah.com
Pray for: the desire to grow faith fruit for the Lord’s work. We offer our prayers, presence, gifts and service to Jesus Christ, knowing His love is all we will ever need. He is the great vine, and we are tiny extensions of His strong root. If we focus our hearts and minds on Christ Jesus, He will multiply our faith, and that faith will speak to the seedlings He planted in the branches of our family, friends and neighbors. He is the true vine. We can fruitful when we intimately know the giver of abundant and everlasting life.
________________________________
© Copyright 2007, Deb Spaulding
All rights reserved
Articles may not be printed in any “for profit” publication without further permission by the author. Articles may be freely distributed via e-mail, reprinted in church bulletins or in other non-profit publications without further permission. Please keep this copyright and Web Site information intact with copied articles. Articles are sent originally to subscribers only. You may have received a forwarded or reprinted copy.
Friday, May 25, 2007
Who are you anyway?
Grand Sweep Daily
II Chronicles
16 Jehoiada then made a covenant that he and the people and the king would be the Lord’s people.
Good morning!
Throughout scripture, people are identified by their tribe, clan, father, grandfather, or great grandfather. They are linked by the names of their kin. We tend to identify and group families in scripture by gender, race, and belief system. One can learn a lot about a particular person in scripture simply by looking at their family tree.
Sometimes, when our grandchildren come to visit, in a hurried rush they may call us mommy or daddy. They know who we are. Have you ever called your child by another sibling’s name? I’ve done that more times than I can count. I’m thankful I only had three children. I cannot imagine how long it would take me to go down a laundry list of ten or more before I finally put the right name with the right face.
Where did I come from? Who am I? I’ve never tried to seek my genetic background, although someday I might. I am grateful that I was adopted as an infant. My mother used to tell me that they were very lucky parents to be able to pick out the babies they wanted to take home with them. Knowing that you are truly wanted is a gift of grace. God hand picks each and every one of us as His priceless treasure. We find our value and worth in knowing Jesus, the one who came to give us new life in Him. Because He loved us first, we can now love our Lord back.
And so it is with Jehoiada. He made a public profession of faith by claiming His roots in the Lord. He, along with the people and king were forevermore known as the Lord’s people. When we accept Jesus Christ as our Lord and Savior, we become His people. He is our heritage. He is our freedom. He is our family. Those who belong to Jesus belong to the body, and that makes all of us who have been saved, family. We no longer have to wonder about whether or not we will be accepted. Through the shed blood of Christ, He makes us one.
Are you part of His family? Do you know who you are and whose you are today? Take a step of faith. Choose to make a covenant this morning, just like Jehoiada. Do not be afraid to proclaim that you and your people belong to the Lord Jesus Christ. He hand-picked you; He loves you with a passion, and welcomes you with open arms, when you choose to confess that He is Lord of your life. Will you choose to live each and every day for Him? If so, then welcome to the family!
Grace and peace,
Deb Spaulding
Pray for: discernment to know who you are and whose you are. May Jesus Christ be the Lord of your life, not only for this day, but through all eternity. We are all family in Him.
________________________________
© Copyright 2007, Deb Spaulding
All rights reserved
Articles may not be printed in any “for profit” publication without further permission by the author. Articles may be freely distributed via e-mail, reprinted in church bulletins or in other non-profit publications without further permission. Please keep this copyright and Web Site information intact with copied articles. Articles are sent originally to subscribers only. You may have received a forwarded or reprinted copy.
Thursday, May 24, 2007
Play ball!
Grand Sweep Daily
II Chronicles
12 O our God, will you not judge them? For we have no power to face this vast army that is attacking us. We do not know what to do, but our eyes are upon you.
Good morning!
Some of the best lessons I’ve learned in life have come in times of complete inadequacy. Do you ever wonder why God might choose to use you for His kingdom work? He is the Lord God Almighty and He can do anything! He is so perfect in every way; powerful and awesome in majesty. His loving kindness is greater than anything we can even begin to comprehend. His judgments are sure, and our God is steadfast and faithful in all things. So why in the world would He ask someone like me to take a step up in faith for Him?
Pitiful does not even begin to describe my lack of coordination on the softball field. I’ve never discerned out how to use that crazy baseball mit. It feels like a giant blindfold – I cannot figure out how to squeeze the ball and hold onto it. Even if it were the size of a small satellite dish, that crazy baseball mit would not be a large enough target. A word to the wise – do not ever hand me a baseball bat. Even with the best of intentions, a baseball bat in my hand can be a very dangerous thing. When I swing, I give it everything I’ve got, and I generally end up hitting everything except the ball. I want to publicly apologize for the many catchers I have creamed over the last forty years. It was mostly unintentional, but I confess there were a few moments when their raucous laughter and cutting remarks made me want to lash out irrationally, and I did. Church softball teams pay me to sit on the sidelines and cheer; especially the teams that like to win occasionally. I am totally and utterly inadequate when it comes to playing ball.
Jehoshaphat had messed up again. It wasn’t the first time his disobedience had put the people he loved in extreme danger. There was no way he was going to win this war without help divine intervention from above. Even with the poor choices he had made, Jehoshaphat had a relationship with the only power source he needed to survive. He knew that the Lord would honor humble hearts, so he instructed his entire community to get serious about repentance. The nation came together for a fast. They devoted the time normally spent in food preparation and eating to penitent and sincere prayer. When I don’t eat for a period of time, I begin to feel physically weak. In that weakness, I am reminded of God’s enduring strength. It brings me to a place where I absolutely have to hand my inadequacies to the Lord, and trust Him to carry me.
When we stop focusing what we can or cannot do, and begin to look toward the Lord, trusting in His grace and mercy alone, life becomes an entirely new ball game. Do you feel totally inadequate to step up to the plate and take a swing for the Lord? I know in my heart that I do not deserve the opportunity to come to the plate. Imperfect, inadequate, totally undeserving of His grace and mercy; I have no natural talent or ability to offer Him. The only thing I have to give is the heart He created within me. And it is easier to return our lives to the Lord when we realize it was His gift to us in the first place.
Do not be afraid to get into the game, even if you suck at it. Like Jehoshaphat, we’ve all made some pretty serious mistakes. Jesus offers forgiveness when we sincerely repent and trust Him completely to do what He says He will do. His Word is sure. He is faithful in all things. Stop trying to be the great athlete you are not. Good works only go so far. Have a little faith! In your weakness, He is strong, and He will win the battle for you today, if you are willing to hand Him your heart.
Play ball!
Grace and peace,
Deb Spaulding
Pray for: the wisdom of Jehoshaphat. We will never be good enough, perfect enough, or smart enough to earn God’s favor. It is only in our inadequacy that we experience the grace and mercy of salvation through Jesus Christ. Won’t you give Him your life today, and allow Jesus to fill you with His courage to step up to the plate for Him.
________________________________
© Copyright 2007, Deb Spaulding
All rights reserved
Articles may not be printed in any “for profit” publication without further permission by the author. Articles may be freely distributed via e-mail, reprinted in church bulletins or in other non-profit publications without further permission. Please keep this copyright and Web Site information intact with copied articles. Articles are sent originally to subscribers only. You may have received a forwarded or reprinted copy.
Wednesday, May 23, 2007
Consider the cost
Grand Sweep Daily Reading: 2 Chronicles 16, 17, 18; Psalm 85 (NIV)
2 Chronicles 18:3-4 (NIV)
3 Ahab king of Israel asked Jehoshaphat king of Judah, “Will you go with me against Ramoth Gilead?” Jehoshaphat replied, “I am as you are, and my people as your people; we will join you in the war.” 4 But Jehoshaphat also said to the king of Israel, “First seek the counsel of the Lord.”
Psalm 85:6-7 (NIV)
6 Will you not revive us again, that your people may rejoice in you? 7 Show us your unfailing love, O Lord, and grant us your salvation.
Good morning!
Have you ever signed up for something you were not certain about? I ask myself that question every single time I buy a new car. Have I made a good choice? Will this vehicle meet my family’s need for transportation? Is it a good value for the money? Do I really, really need it? Am I willing to pay the price?
There are many things in life that we sign up for without examining the cost. For instance, how many couples get married without seriously considering their mutual commitment to serve and love each other for the rest of their life? Becoming a parent is something that changes you forever. Do we really think about how this new little human will shape the course of our future? If we gave serious thought to the investment of time, attention and money it takes to feed, clothe, and educate a child today, it’s a wonder so many babies are being born! I imagine if we took a serious look at marriage and child-rearing, many of us may remain single and childless. It’s a scary thing – opening our hearts to the life of another human being, knowing we will never be the same again for taking a risk on love.
The commitments we make in life will affect us “for better or worse.” There was no doubt of Jehoshaphat’s love for the Lord. Yet, he chose an arranged marriage for his son with the daughter of Ahab. This yoked their people together in a military alliance that was sure to bring God’s wrath upon them. When Ahab asked Jehoshaphat to fight with him in battle, he prayed for guidance, then chose to ignore God’s answer. Have you ever sought the Lord for direction in your life and when the answer wasn’t what you wanted to hear, chose to ignore Him and do your own thing anyway?
Thank God for His mercy and grace. He knows our hearts and He sees the motivation behind everything we say and do. He loves us even when we make half-hearted commitments and jump with reckless abandon without considering the cost. When you asked Jesus to become Lord of your life, did you really mean it? Would you be willing to obey Him if He asked you to speak up on His behalf? Would you choose to care more about the people who do not yet know Him, than you care about your own personal comfort and security? Have you truly considered the cost of membership in the body of Christ?
Grace and peace,
Deb Spaulding
www.songofdeborah.com
Pray for: courage to make a thorough examination of your commitment to Jesus Christ today. He gave it all up for you. How much of your life are you really willing to give back to Him? Are you willing to risk your love and life for the Lord?
________________________________
© Copyright 2007, Deb Spaulding
All rights reserved
Articles may not be printed in any “for profit” publication without further permission by the author. Articles may be freely distributed via e-mail, reprinted in church bulletins or in other non-profit publications without further permission. Please keep this copyright and Web Site information intact with copied articles. Articles are sent originally to subscribers only. You may have received a forwarded or reprinted copy.
Grand Sweep Daily Reading: 2 Chronicles 16, 17, 18; Psalm 85 (NIV)
2 Chronicles 18:3-4 (NIV)
3 Ahab king of Israel asked Jehoshaphat king of Judah, “Will you go with me against Ramoth Gilead?” Jehoshaphat replied, “I am as you are, and my people as your people; we will join you in the war.” 4 But Jehoshaphat also said to the king of Israel, “First seek the counsel of the Lord.”
Psalm 85:6-7 (NIV)
6 Will you not revive us again, that your people may rejoice in you? 7 Show us your unfailing love, O Lord, and grant us your salvation.
Good morning!
Have you ever signed up for something you were not certain about? I ask myself that question every single time I buy a new car. Have I made a good choice? Will this vehicle meet my family’s need for transportation? Is it a good value for the money? Do I really, really need it? Am I willing to pay the price?
There are many things in life that we sign up for without examining the cost. For instance, how many couples get married without seriously considering their mutual commitment to serve and love each other for the rest of their life? Becoming a parent is something that changes you forever. Do we really think about how this new little human will shape the course of our future? If we gave serious thought to the investment of time, attention and money it takes to feed, clothe, and educate a child today, it’s a wonder so many babies are being born! I imagine if we took a serious look at marriage and child-rearing, many of us may remain single and childless. It’s a scary thing – opening our hearts to the life of another human being, knowing we will never be the same again for taking a risk on love.
The commitments we make in life will affect us “for better or worse.” There was no doubt of Jehoshaphat’s love for the Lord. Yet, he chose an arranged marriage for his son with the daughter of Ahab. This yoked their people together in a military alliance that was sure to bring God’s wrath upon them. When Ahab asked Jehoshaphat to fight with him in battle, he prayed for guidance, then chose to ignore God’s answer. Have you ever sought the Lord for direction in your life and when the answer wasn’t what you wanted to hear, chose to ignore Him and do your own thing anyway?
Thank God for His mercy and grace. He knows our hearts and He sees the motivation behind everything we say and do. He loves us even when we make half-hearted commitments and jump with reckless abandon without considering the cost. When you asked Jesus to become Lord of your life, did you really mean it? Would you be willing to obey Him if He asked you to speak up on His behalf? Would you choose to care more about the people who do not yet know Him, than you care about your own personal comfort and security? Have you truly considered the cost of membership in the body of Christ?
Grace and peace,
Deb Spaulding
www.songofdeborah.com
Pray for: courage to make a thorough examination of your commitment to Jesus Christ today. He gave it all up for you. How much of your life are you really willing to give back to Him? Are you willing to risk your love and life for the Lord?
________________________________
© Copyright 2007, Deb Spaulding
All rights reserved
Articles may not be printed in any “for profit” publication without further permission by the author. Articles may be freely distributed via e-mail, reprinted in church bulletins or in other non-profit publications without further permission. Please keep this copyright and Web Site information intact with copied articles. Articles are sent originally to subscribers only. You may have received a forwarded or reprinted copy.
Tuesday, May 22, 2007
Fighting a losing battle
Grand Sweep Daily Reading: 2 Chronicles 13, 14, 15 (NIV)
2 Chronicles 14:11 (NIV)
11 Then Asa called to the Lord his God and said, “Lord, there is no one like you to help the powerless against the mighty. Help us, O Lord our God, for we rely on you, and in your name we have come against this vast army. O Lord, you are our God; do not let man prevail against you.”
Good morning!
Do you ever feel like the life you are living is “under control?” It is a strange moment when all things come together and work the way you envision them. I don’t think I’ve ever had that happen in my forty-eight years on earth, even though I’ve certainly tried to make it that way. I learned a long time ago that things can change in a breath; a blink; and in a shed tear; life as we know it can disappear in one fleeting moment. People seem to swing from seasons of plenty into seasons of need. Life can be moving along just fine when suddenly, the bottom seems to drop out of your barrel. Someone you love becomes ill. Your child begins a season of rebelliousness and disobedience. One day you have a job and the next day, you are handed a pink slip. We try to plan for the inevitable – the things that shake our foundation. We work hard, save our money, and try to set a good example for our children to follow. When things fall apart, where do you go for an added measure of strength? Whom do you turn to when you see the battle raging in front of you and realize just how ill equipped you are to fight?
I heard a gentleman share his story of faith last weekend at church. George had been through a lot in his life. He grew up in a home where he was taught that hard work and effort would help him achieve the kind of life he desired. A brilliant student, George excelled in school. He graduated with honors, and began working his way up the corporate ladder of life. George fell in love and married Rose. She was one in a million, and they were very happy. George and Rose had a family together. He bought a fine home for his wife and children to enjoy, several really nice cars to drive, and it seemed as if everything George touched turned to gold. With all he had acquired, George was not happy inside; something was definitely missing. Have you wondered how someone who appears to have everything on the outside can be so empty on the inside? Have you ever felt like George?
He entered into a deep and dark depression, a battle George did not know how to win. His illness cost him everything. George lost his job; he lost the love and respect of his wife. His children hated him for what he had become. George woke up one morning in the back seat of the only car he had left. George was bankrupt. He had lost his family, his job, and the will to live.
George was contemplating suicide when someone reached out to help. A long-time friend invited George to meet his pastor and seek some help. Through counseling and prayer, George gave his life to Jesus Christ. He relinquished control, recognizing for the first time, that it wasn’t his to possess in the first place. Sometime, it takes the experience of fighting a losing battle for us to stop, take a breath and look up. When Asa found that he was fighting a losing battle against the great Ethiopian warrior, he cried out to God and said, “I am powerless without you. I need your help now!” When Asa recognized his lack of control and trusted God completely for help, the mountain moved. When George gave his life to Jesus, he found a peace that could not be purchased through the riches of this world. His depression slowly lifted. George and Rose were able to deal with the tough stuff in their marriage, and their family was reunited after a season of darkness and grief. George had learned how to let go of the controls, and let God take charge.
Are you ready to trust the Lord completely? Are you fighting a losing battle today? Jesus is waiting for you to look up. If you seek Him, the Lord will find you. Surrender your heart to Him and experience abundant living that only comes through Christ.
Grace and peace,
Deb Spaulding
www.songofdeborah.com
Pray for: recognition to stop fighting a losing battle. Your Heavenly Father created you with a plan and purpose. He loves you more than you will ever know. Won’t you reach out to Jesus today, and let Him fight the impossible for you. He will your bridge home. With Christ, all things are possible.
________________________________
© Copyright 2007, Deb Spaulding
All rights reserved
Articles may not be printed in any “for profit” publication without further permission by the author. Articles may be freely distributed via e-mail, reprinted in church bulletins or in other non-profit publications without further permission. Please keep this copyright and Web Site information intact with copied articles. Articles are sent originally to subscribers only. You may have received a forwarded or reprinted copy.
Grand Sweep Daily Reading: 2 Chronicles 13, 14, 15 (NIV)
2 Chronicles 14:11 (NIV)
11 Then Asa called to the Lord his God and said, “Lord, there is no one like you to help the powerless against the mighty. Help us, O Lord our God, for we rely on you, and in your name we have come against this vast army. O Lord, you are our God; do not let man prevail against you.”
Good morning!
Do you ever feel like the life you are living is “under control?” It is a strange moment when all things come together and work the way you envision them. I don’t think I’ve ever had that happen in my forty-eight years on earth, even though I’ve certainly tried to make it that way. I learned a long time ago that things can change in a breath; a blink; and in a shed tear; life as we know it can disappear in one fleeting moment. People seem to swing from seasons of plenty into seasons of need. Life can be moving along just fine when suddenly, the bottom seems to drop out of your barrel. Someone you love becomes ill. Your child begins a season of rebelliousness and disobedience. One day you have a job and the next day, you are handed a pink slip. We try to plan for the inevitable – the things that shake our foundation. We work hard, save our money, and try to set a good example for our children to follow. When things fall apart, where do you go for an added measure of strength? Whom do you turn to when you see the battle raging in front of you and realize just how ill equipped you are to fight?
I heard a gentleman share his story of faith last weekend at church. George had been through a lot in his life. He grew up in a home where he was taught that hard work and effort would help him achieve the kind of life he desired. A brilliant student, George excelled in school. He graduated with honors, and began working his way up the corporate ladder of life. George fell in love and married Rose. She was one in a million, and they were very happy. George and Rose had a family together. He bought a fine home for his wife and children to enjoy, several really nice cars to drive, and it seemed as if everything George touched turned to gold. With all he had acquired, George was not happy inside; something was definitely missing. Have you wondered how someone who appears to have everything on the outside can be so empty on the inside? Have you ever felt like George?
He entered into a deep and dark depression, a battle George did not know how to win. His illness cost him everything. George lost his job; he lost the love and respect of his wife. His children hated him for what he had become. George woke up one morning in the back seat of the only car he had left. George was bankrupt. He had lost his family, his job, and the will to live.
George was contemplating suicide when someone reached out to help. A long-time friend invited George to meet his pastor and seek some help. Through counseling and prayer, George gave his life to Jesus Christ. He relinquished control, recognizing for the first time, that it wasn’t his to possess in the first place. Sometime, it takes the experience of fighting a losing battle for us to stop, take a breath and look up. When Asa found that he was fighting a losing battle against the great Ethiopian warrior, he cried out to God and said, “I am powerless without you. I need your help now!” When Asa recognized his lack of control and trusted God completely for help, the mountain moved. When George gave his life to Jesus, he found a peace that could not be purchased through the riches of this world. His depression slowly lifted. George and Rose were able to deal with the tough stuff in their marriage, and their family was reunited after a season of darkness and grief. George had learned how to let go of the controls, and let God take charge.
Are you ready to trust the Lord completely? Are you fighting a losing battle today? Jesus is waiting for you to look up. If you seek Him, the Lord will find you. Surrender your heart to Him and experience abundant living that only comes through Christ.
Grace and peace,
Deb Spaulding
www.songofdeborah.com
Pray for: recognition to stop fighting a losing battle. Your Heavenly Father created you with a plan and purpose. He loves you more than you will ever know. Won’t you reach out to Jesus today, and let Him fight the impossible for you. He will your bridge home. With Christ, all things are possible.
________________________________
© Copyright 2007, Deb Spaulding
All rights reserved
Articles may not be printed in any “for profit” publication without further permission by the author. Articles may be freely distributed via e-mail, reprinted in church bulletins or in other non-profit publications without further permission. Please keep this copyright and Web Site information intact with copied articles. Articles are sent originally to subscribers only. You may have received a forwarded or reprinted copy.
Monday, May 21, 2007
Getting back on track
Grand Sweep Daily Reading: 2 Chronicles 10, 11, 12 (NIV)
2 Chronicles 12:5-8; 12 (NIV)
5 Then the prophet Shemaiah came to Rehoboam and to the leaders of Judah who had assembled in Jerusalem for fear of Shishak, and he said to them, “This is what the Lord says, ‘You have abandoned me; therefore, I now abandon you to Shishak.’”
6 The leaders of Israel and the king humbled themselves and said, “The Lord is just.”
7 When the Lord saw that they humbled themselves, this word of the Lord came to Shemaiah: “Since they have humbled themselves, I will not destroy them but will soon give them deliverance. My wrath will not be poured out on Jerusalem through Shishak.
8 They will, however, become subject to him, so that they may learn the difference between serving me and serving the kings of other lands.”
12 Because Rehoboam humbled himself, the Lord’s anger turned from him, and he was not totally destroyed. Indeed, there was some good in Judah.
Good morning!
Whenever we return home from a vacation, I spend a little time looking at the many brochures and memorabilia while unpacking the suitcases. Most of these items will be scrapbooked along with a journal of memories to be enjoyed in the years ahead. I marvel at the Lord’s mercy. We travel to strange places, far away from home. It is easy to get turned around. I was trying to mentally count the number of times Jeff and I literally did a u-turn and headed back in the opposite direction. We did it so often, I think I lost count after the first ten or fifteen times. I believe it may be easier for a Christian to humble their heart and ask for directions, and be willing to turn around, especially since this is a discipline we practice every day while on our knees. After awhile, it becomes second nature, don’t you think?
It is always an adventure traveling with my husband. When we returned the rental car to the dealership, the gentleman inspecting the vehicle greeted Jeff with a resounding, “Good morning, Father.” It is impossible to adequately explain why a man wearing a clerical collar is holding hands with a pretty woman dressed in a windbreaker, short sleeved t-shirt and Capri pants. Can you imagine the look of surprise when they realize we share the same last name! I’ve grown accustomed to seeing the furrowed eyebrows of the people who pass us by as we walk hand-in-hand toward the airline boarding gate. “Forgive me Father, for I have sinned,” I whispered in Jeff’s ear. “It has been almost thirty seconds since my last confession.” He smiles at me and I squeeze his hand, as we continue our journey through life together.
King Rehoboam asked for counsel and basically got two differing opinions. He made a poor choice by not listening to his elders, and lost the Lord’s favor in the process. Fortunately, he was not so proud that when confronted with his sin, Rehoboam humbled his heart and sought forgiveness. He understood the need to stop and turn around. Because of the prophet Shemaiah, God was merciful to Jerusalem. The Lord stopped the destruction, but allowed His people to become subject to Shishak, so they might learn the difference between serving the Great I Am and serving kings of other lands. There are times when we must realize that all the good intentions we offer may not mean a thing, if we are not serving our Lord. Sometimes, we have to stop and ask the question, “Are we doing this for Him, or are we doing this for us?”
When our global positioning system works properly, we hear the gentle reminders of the computerized voice speaking in a frantic tone, “Turn around now!” Thank God that He allows for u-turns. As we head off into the world today, do not be afraid to stop and turn around, especially if you’ve somehow managed to lose your way. Jesus is there to help you get back on track. A humble and willing heart is what God looks for in each of us. Are you ready to make a u-turn this morning?
Grace and peace,
Deb Spaulding
www.songofdeborah.com
Pray for: a humble heart and willingness to turn it around. It is easy to get lost in this crazy, fast-paced world. Jesus is waiting for you to seek Him out, amid the many distractions you face each day. When your global positioning system begins to sound a warning alarm, listen carefully to the instruction, and pray for grace and mercy. He will forgive a humble heart and help guide you back on the track that leads to life everlasting.
________________________________
© Copyright 2007, Deb Spaulding
All rights reserved
Articles may not be printed in any “for profit” publication without further permission by the author. Articles may be freely distributed via e-mail, reprinted in church bulletins or in other non-profit publications without further permission. Please keep this copyright and Web Site information intact with copied articles. Articles are sent originally to subscribers only. You may have received a forwarded or reprinted copy.
Grand Sweep Daily Reading: 2 Chronicles 10, 11, 12 (NIV)
2 Chronicles 12:5-8; 12 (NIV)
5 Then the prophet Shemaiah came to Rehoboam and to the leaders of Judah who had assembled in Jerusalem for fear of Shishak, and he said to them, “This is what the Lord says, ‘You have abandoned me; therefore, I now abandon you to Shishak.’”
6 The leaders of Israel and the king humbled themselves and said, “The Lord is just.”
7 When the Lord saw that they humbled themselves, this word of the Lord came to Shemaiah: “Since they have humbled themselves, I will not destroy them but will soon give them deliverance. My wrath will not be poured out on Jerusalem through Shishak.
8 They will, however, become subject to him, so that they may learn the difference between serving me and serving the kings of other lands.”
12 Because Rehoboam humbled himself, the Lord’s anger turned from him, and he was not totally destroyed. Indeed, there was some good in Judah.
Good morning!
Whenever we return home from a vacation, I spend a little time looking at the many brochures and memorabilia while unpacking the suitcases. Most of these items will be scrapbooked along with a journal of memories to be enjoyed in the years ahead. I marvel at the Lord’s mercy. We travel to strange places, far away from home. It is easy to get turned around. I was trying to mentally count the number of times Jeff and I literally did a u-turn and headed back in the opposite direction. We did it so often, I think I lost count after the first ten or fifteen times. I believe it may be easier for a Christian to humble their heart and ask for directions, and be willing to turn around, especially since this is a discipline we practice every day while on our knees. After awhile, it becomes second nature, don’t you think?
It is always an adventure traveling with my husband. When we returned the rental car to the dealership, the gentleman inspecting the vehicle greeted Jeff with a resounding, “Good morning, Father.” It is impossible to adequately explain why a man wearing a clerical collar is holding hands with a pretty woman dressed in a windbreaker, short sleeved t-shirt and Capri pants. Can you imagine the look of surprise when they realize we share the same last name! I’ve grown accustomed to seeing the furrowed eyebrows of the people who pass us by as we walk hand-in-hand toward the airline boarding gate. “Forgive me Father, for I have sinned,” I whispered in Jeff’s ear. “It has been almost thirty seconds since my last confession.” He smiles at me and I squeeze his hand, as we continue our journey through life together.
King Rehoboam asked for counsel and basically got two differing opinions. He made a poor choice by not listening to his elders, and lost the Lord’s favor in the process. Fortunately, he was not so proud that when confronted with his sin, Rehoboam humbled his heart and sought forgiveness. He understood the need to stop and turn around. Because of the prophet Shemaiah, God was merciful to Jerusalem. The Lord stopped the destruction, but allowed His people to become subject to Shishak, so they might learn the difference between serving the Great I Am and serving kings of other lands. There are times when we must realize that all the good intentions we offer may not mean a thing, if we are not serving our Lord. Sometimes, we have to stop and ask the question, “Are we doing this for Him, or are we doing this for us?”
When our global positioning system works properly, we hear the gentle reminders of the computerized voice speaking in a frantic tone, “Turn around now!” Thank God that He allows for u-turns. As we head off into the world today, do not be afraid to stop and turn around, especially if you’ve somehow managed to lose your way. Jesus is there to help you get back on track. A humble and willing heart is what God looks for in each of us. Are you ready to make a u-turn this morning?
Grace and peace,
Deb Spaulding
www.songofdeborah.com
Pray for: a humble heart and willingness to turn it around. It is easy to get lost in this crazy, fast-paced world. Jesus is waiting for you to seek Him out, amid the many distractions you face each day. When your global positioning system begins to sound a warning alarm, listen carefully to the instruction, and pray for grace and mercy. He will forgive a humble heart and help guide you back on the track that leads to life everlasting.
________________________________
© Copyright 2007, Deb Spaulding
All rights reserved
Articles may not be printed in any “for profit” publication without further permission by the author. Articles may be freely distributed via e-mail, reprinted in church bulletins or in other non-profit publications without further permission. Please keep this copyright and Web Site information intact with copied articles. Articles are sent originally to subscribers only. You may have received a forwarded or reprinted copy.
Sunday, May 20, 2007
Finding Jesus in California
Matthew 28:18-20 (NIV)
18 Then Jesus came to them and said, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. 19 Therefore, go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, 20 and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.”
Good morning!
I am forever amazed at how the Lord can take a willing heart to move mountains for His kingdom work. Yesterday, Jeff and I did a little church-hopping. We started our day, wanting to sit in two different worship environments – we were actually able to experience three different settings. We drove about three hundred miles round trip, give or take one hundred miles of turning around and back tracking. Jeff is a great driver; yet both of us are directionally challenged. I think Satan was playing with Jeff’s Global Positioning System, because we couldn’t pick up a satellite signal to guide us. We saw a lot of California that we probably wouldn’t have seen had we not gotten turned around a few times. My vision will not allow me to read maps in the car. I make a lousy co-pilot. Jeff learned how to make a Californian u-turn and he is really good at it! We got honked at several times. I think we fit in well here!
Our first stop was the Trinity Broadcasting Network in Santa Ana. At the Santa Ana studio, we were dismayed to not find an open door. A staff employee watched us from her car, as she sipped an energy drink during her lunch break. When she saw us trying to get inside, she got out of her automobile and offered to lend us a hand. She explained that this facility was not open to the public. She provided us with a map to the Costa Mesa sight and encouraged us to go there. I am so glad we did. We were able to take a tour of their building, and sit in the studio where Praise the Lord is filmed every Thursday evening. We enjoyed a brief video explaining how a dream which began in 1973 had grown into a worldwide presence through satellite technology. I was especially interested in their prayer room, where thousands of requests lay on velvety cushions. Anyone can go and spend a few minutes or several hours, praying over these requests. When it comes to prayer rooms, this space is one of the largest and most beautifully appointed I have ever seen. We spent several hours at TBN, asking questions and touring the facility. The building structure reminded me of a Greek Orthodox Church, with hand-painted murals overhead and golden pillars on every level. The roof is a colorful rotunda, with angels and the risen Christ painted in the round. On the third level of the facility, there is a display of the many costumes used to film “One Night with the King.” The garden area was breathtaking. Statuary and running fountains were nestled between the ornamental topiary and rose bushes.
From there, we made our way to the Crystal Cathedral in Garden Grove. We snapped pictures from the outside of the building. We were surprised at the location of this church. It was not at all situated where we thought it might be. The grounds are meticulously kept. We watched in wonder as people parked their automobiles and hooked up to open air microphones, so they could worship from their comfort of their vehicles. I’ve always considered my automobile to be a worship center, but this takes it to the extreme. Drive-in worship and go! If I were going to drive all the way to the Crystal Cathedral to worship, I don’t think I would want to sit my car. I’d probably park it and walk inside - but that’s just me.
It took forever to find Saddleback Community Church. Thank goodness they offer two evening worship services. We were late for the 4:30 service, so we stayed through and caught the first part of the 6:30 service. We were determined to get there, even if we had to drive around the Southern California foothills all night. This was definitely a church worth finding. Saddleback sits on a hill overlooking Lake Forest. They own 120 acres and the site is undergoing construction. We could hear the preaching over an open-air microphone as we walked toward the worship center. There were hundreds of families sitting outside under umbrella tables holding young children, having a snack and listening to the sermon broadcast in the open air. Inside, there were thousands of people, marking their Bibles and taking copious notes on the sermon outline provided in their worship bulletin. The collection of tithes and offerings resembled of passing the loaves and fishes around. Everyone was getting fed there, and as the baskets returned full to the brim, I could only imagine that was what it was like when Jesus fed the masses on the foothills surrounding the Sea of Galilee. Worshiping at Saddleback was an awesome experience.
We saw three very unique ministries in a circumference of only thirty miles, helping grow disciples of Jesus Christ in unique and varied settings. It is a confirmation in my spirit to see what God can do with a willing heart - someone who loves the Lord and desires nothing more than to serve them with their life. We are all on a journey. No matter where we live, or what we do, every child is a child created by the hand of God and there is a purpose and plan for every human heart. I rejoice with the ongoing ministries of my brothers and sisters in Christ Jesus, and I praise God for their amazing communities of faith where change occurs, one heart at a time.
We are coming home today. As we prepare to fly across the desert, we leave here thanking God for the faithful Christians who touched our lives in Southern California this week. The journey home is always sweeter when we know who we are coming home to. May we enjoy the abundant life, as we celebrate the power and presence of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. He is everywhere. He walks with us each and every day, even to the end of the age.
Grace and peace,
Deb Spaulding
www.songofdeborah.com
Pray for: Jesus to open your eyes to the faithful witness of our Christian brothers and sisters. They are everywhere! Check it out for yourself. If you’re ever in St. Charles, Missouri, come see us at Faith Church. Our hearts, our minds, and our doors are always open, and we can’t wait to meet you!
________________________________________
© Copyright 2007, Deb Spaulding
All rights reserved
Articles may not be printed in any “for profit” publication without further permission by the author. Articles may be freely distributed via e-mail, reprinted in church bulletins or in other non-profit publications without further permission. Please keep this copyright and Web Site information intact with copied articles. Articles are sent originally to subscribers only. You may have received a forwarded or reprinted copy.
Matthew 28:18-20 (NIV)
18 Then Jesus came to them and said, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. 19 Therefore, go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, 20 and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.”
Good morning!
I am forever amazed at how the Lord can take a willing heart to move mountains for His kingdom work. Yesterday, Jeff and I did a little church-hopping. We started our day, wanting to sit in two different worship environments – we were actually able to experience three different settings. We drove about three hundred miles round trip, give or take one hundred miles of turning around and back tracking. Jeff is a great driver; yet both of us are directionally challenged. I think Satan was playing with Jeff’s Global Positioning System, because we couldn’t pick up a satellite signal to guide us. We saw a lot of California that we probably wouldn’t have seen had we not gotten turned around a few times. My vision will not allow me to read maps in the car. I make a lousy co-pilot. Jeff learned how to make a Californian u-turn and he is really good at it! We got honked at several times. I think we fit in well here!
Our first stop was the Trinity Broadcasting Network in Santa Ana. At the Santa Ana studio, we were dismayed to not find an open door. A staff employee watched us from her car, as she sipped an energy drink during her lunch break. When she saw us trying to get inside, she got out of her automobile and offered to lend us a hand. She explained that this facility was not open to the public. She provided us with a map to the Costa Mesa sight and encouraged us to go there. I am so glad we did. We were able to take a tour of their building, and sit in the studio where Praise the Lord is filmed every Thursday evening. We enjoyed a brief video explaining how a dream which began in 1973 had grown into a worldwide presence through satellite technology. I was especially interested in their prayer room, where thousands of requests lay on velvety cushions. Anyone can go and spend a few minutes or several hours, praying over these requests. When it comes to prayer rooms, this space is one of the largest and most beautifully appointed I have ever seen. We spent several hours at TBN, asking questions and touring the facility. The building structure reminded me of a Greek Orthodox Church, with hand-painted murals overhead and golden pillars on every level. The roof is a colorful rotunda, with angels and the risen Christ painted in the round. On the third level of the facility, there is a display of the many costumes used to film “One Night with the King.” The garden area was breathtaking. Statuary and running fountains were nestled between the ornamental topiary and rose bushes.
From there, we made our way to the Crystal Cathedral in Garden Grove. We snapped pictures from the outside of the building. We were surprised at the location of this church. It was not at all situated where we thought it might be. The grounds are meticulously kept. We watched in wonder as people parked their automobiles and hooked up to open air microphones, so they could worship from their comfort of their vehicles. I’ve always considered my automobile to be a worship center, but this takes it to the extreme. Drive-in worship and go! If I were going to drive all the way to the Crystal Cathedral to worship, I don’t think I would want to sit my car. I’d probably park it and walk inside - but that’s just me.
It took forever to find Saddleback Community Church. Thank goodness they offer two evening worship services. We were late for the 4:30 service, so we stayed through and caught the first part of the 6:30 service. We were determined to get there, even if we had to drive around the Southern California foothills all night. This was definitely a church worth finding. Saddleback sits on a hill overlooking Lake Forest. They own 120 acres and the site is undergoing construction. We could hear the preaching over an open-air microphone as we walked toward the worship center. There were hundreds of families sitting outside under umbrella tables holding young children, having a snack and listening to the sermon broadcast in the open air. Inside, there were thousands of people, marking their Bibles and taking copious notes on the sermon outline provided in their worship bulletin. The collection of tithes and offerings resembled of passing the loaves and fishes around. Everyone was getting fed there, and as the baskets returned full to the brim, I could only imagine that was what it was like when Jesus fed the masses on the foothills surrounding the Sea of Galilee. Worshiping at Saddleback was an awesome experience.
We saw three very unique ministries in a circumference of only thirty miles, helping grow disciples of Jesus Christ in unique and varied settings. It is a confirmation in my spirit to see what God can do with a willing heart - someone who loves the Lord and desires nothing more than to serve them with their life. We are all on a journey. No matter where we live, or what we do, every child is a child created by the hand of God and there is a purpose and plan for every human heart. I rejoice with the ongoing ministries of my brothers and sisters in Christ Jesus, and I praise God for their amazing communities of faith where change occurs, one heart at a time.
We are coming home today. As we prepare to fly across the desert, we leave here thanking God for the faithful Christians who touched our lives in Southern California this week. The journey home is always sweeter when we know who we are coming home to. May we enjoy the abundant life, as we celebrate the power and presence of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. He is everywhere. He walks with us each and every day, even to the end of the age.
Grace and peace,
Deb Spaulding
www.songofdeborah.com
Pray for: Jesus to open your eyes to the faithful witness of our Christian brothers and sisters. They are everywhere! Check it out for yourself. If you’re ever in St. Charles, Missouri, come see us at Faith Church. Our hearts, our minds, and our doors are always open, and we can’t wait to meet you!
________________________________________
© Copyright 2007, Deb Spaulding
All rights reserved
Articles may not be printed in any “for profit” publication without further permission by the author. Articles may be freely distributed via e-mail, reprinted in church bulletins or in other non-profit publications without further permission. Please keep this copyright and Web Site information intact with copied articles. Articles are sent originally to subscribers only. You may have received a forwarded or reprinted copy.
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