Standing Between the Living and the Dead
Grand Sweep Daily Reading: Numbers 16, 17, 18
Numbers 16:46-48 (NIV)
46 Then Moses said to Aaron, “Take your censer and put incense in it, along with fire from the altar, and hurry to the assembly to make atonement for them. Wrath has come out from the Lord; the plague has started. 47 So Aaron did as Moses said, and ran into the midst of the assembly. The plague had already started among the people, but Aaron offered the incense and made atonement for them. 48 He stood between the living and the dead, and the plague stopped.
Hebrews 7:25 (NIV)
25 Therefore, He is able to save completely those who come to God through Him, because He always lives to intercede for them.
Good morning!
Grumbling will get us into trouble every time! I’ve been carrying a nail with me since our Ash Wednesday worship service. Pastor Jeff suggested that we take a nail from the basket at the altar, keeping it in a place where we could see it, feel it, and think about the price that was paid for our salvation. He asked the congregation to pick that nail up and squeeze it in their hand every time they grumbled, complained, or murmured. The nail reminds us that it is our thoughts and words, motives and greed that pinned our Savior to the tree. Jesus willingly traded our sin for His righteousness. He bore it all on the cross, totally separating himself from a perfect and Holy Father, just to give us new life and relationship with God. Jesus died and rose again, conquering death once and for all. He did this for you and for me. If we truly understand the cost, how can we continue to grumble, gripe, and complain?
The Israelites were not happy campers. It wasn’t enough that the very presence of God hovered over their lives in the visual form of a cloud by day and fire by night. Ungrateful for the daily manna they received each day from the hand of heaven, the Israelites continued to distrust the faithful leadership of Moses and Aaron. Their negative and nasty attitude thrust them into open rebellion with God Almighty. Moses and Aaron spent a lot of time falling face down, begging God to forgive their ignorance and haughty, disrespectful spirit.
Oh, to have a great, high priest stand between the living and the dead, crying out for our souls in intercessory prayer! Moses instructed Aaron to take his censer, fill it with incense and fire from the altar of the Lord, and run to the assembly to make atonement for them. The Lord’s anger filled the desert as a plague began to consume humanity. Almost 15,000 people died before the Lord accepted Aaron’s prayers for atonement. Grumbling and complaining can wipe out an entire nation, separating the body through division and strife. When we take our eyes off the great high priest and begin to banter with God, disaster is sure to strike. Do you really think you have a better game plan than the Lord? Have you ever experienced the cause and effect when the redeemed ones choose to take their eyes off the main thing and insist on doing things their own way?
When you find that sin and separation is far too heavy to bear, turn around and take a long, hard look at the Great High Priest who intercedes for you. Jesus Christ died to set you free! He offers you everlasting life, relationship with the Father, and a peace that surpasses all human understanding. His life can light your way. Squeeze the nail in your hand today, and ask the Lord to forgive your sin and help you trust Him all the more. Let Jesus Christ tame your tongue, control your thoughts, and lead you home.
Grace and peace,
Deb Spaulding
www.songofdeborah.com
Pray for: the Great High Priest, who is holy, blameless, pure, and set apart from sin, to redeem your body, mind and soul today. Won’t you invite Jesus Christ to come and live inside your heart and be the Lord of your 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.
Thursday, February 22, 2007
Sabbath-Breaker 1:9 - Do you copy?
Grand Sweep Daily Reading: Numbers 13, 14, 15
Numbers 15:32-36 (NIV)
32 While the Israelites were in the desert, a man was found gathering wood on the Sabbath day. 33 Those who found him gathering wood brought him to Moses and Aaron and the whole assembly, 34 and they kept him in custody, because it was not clear what should be done to him. 35 Then the Lord said to Moses, “The man must die. The whole assembly must stone him outside the camp.” 36 So the assembly took him outside the camp and stoned him to death, as the Lord commanded Moses.
Good morning!
Have you ever broken a law, bent a rule, or tiptoed around a tradition? There is something in our human nature that leads all of us to be little rebels now and then. Sunday morning worship was a challenge when our children were young. For many years, my husband led worship services at two different churches every Sunday morning, and he did his best to split his time equally between both congregations. Sunday school overlapped with one early morning worship, and I wanted our children to have an opportunity to attend Sunday school. There were many weeks when I didn’t get to attend one church because of Sunday school. In some respects, it was a good choice, especially for our young children; yet, I found it to be a difficult decision. I loved the people in both congregations and knew if I missed seeing them on Sunday, I might not get to visit with them for at least another week, maybe even longer. Life experience taught me that not everyone enjoys an early morning rush, and my children were no exception to this. Getting three Spaulding babies out of bed, fed and dressed, hair combed, teeth brushed, presentable and happy at 6am made getting to early worship an even greater dilemma. I think our family may have been direct descendants of our Israelites because we certainly seemed to have the corner on grumbling! Some of those blessed car rides to early morning worship permanently scarred my ear drums. When I close my eyes, I can still hear the unhappy bickering coming from the back seat of our station wagon. What a way to begin a worship experience!
Do you ever skip out of worship? I know many people who work in service professions find that their jobs require they be at work on Sunday morning. Personally, I am thankful we have churches in our community who celebrate worship services throughout the week, and even on Saturday. We need to take advantage of every opportunity to spend time together in the presence of God – it is essential to our daily walk. When we miss the corporate worship experience, regardless of our reason, our lives become imbalanced.
The man gathering wood on the Sabbath may have been hungry and needed a fire to cook food. Maybe he was cold. Maybe he was too busy to set aside the day to worship and praise the Lord. God instructed the people to stone this man to death outside the city gates for his obvious disobedience to God’s command. I’ve personally never been stoned for missing Sabbath worship, but I know how heavy my heart feels when I choose to put other things ahead of God. Sabbath worship has become the focal point of my life. I yearn to be in worship with Him. So much so, that I am drawn not only to weekend worship, but I find it is not enough to go once a week. I need Him every hour of every day. Making time to pray and praise Him every day is a joy and a gift that I cannot adequately describe. Have you ever sacrificed time during the week to worship the Lord? The precious moments fill my days with wonder and my nights with peace. Living worship is living joy. I long to worship my Lord not only on Sunday, but each and every day. If I miss this time, the rhythm of my life becomes bumpy. My happy attitude disappears. I find fault and become critical of the ones I love. I take my eyes off the prize for even a moment, and life just isn’t the same. Separation from God is a choice that can bring about a fatal error.
Fellowship with our Christian brothers and sisters, spending time praising Jesus, praying together as the body of Christ, attending Bible study, and receiving solid, foundational teaching is our life breath. It is our food. It gives us the energy to get out there and share His love with others. We need this time together. During the next forty days of Lent, will you make Sabbath worship a priority?
Grace and peace,
Deb Spaulding
www.songofdeborah.com
Pray for: the desire to spend time in worship each week. Make the Lord your number one priority. If you make time for Him, the Lord God Almighty will change the direction of your life. I’ll see you at church!
____________________________
© 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: Numbers 13, 14, 15
Numbers 15:32-36 (NIV)
32 While the Israelites were in the desert, a man was found gathering wood on the Sabbath day. 33 Those who found him gathering wood brought him to Moses and Aaron and the whole assembly, 34 and they kept him in custody, because it was not clear what should be done to him. 35 Then the Lord said to Moses, “The man must die. The whole assembly must stone him outside the camp.” 36 So the assembly took him outside the camp and stoned him to death, as the Lord commanded Moses.
Good morning!
Have you ever broken a law, bent a rule, or tiptoed around a tradition? There is something in our human nature that leads all of us to be little rebels now and then. Sunday morning worship was a challenge when our children were young. For many years, my husband led worship services at two different churches every Sunday morning, and he did his best to split his time equally between both congregations. Sunday school overlapped with one early morning worship, and I wanted our children to have an opportunity to attend Sunday school. There were many weeks when I didn’t get to attend one church because of Sunday school. In some respects, it was a good choice, especially for our young children; yet, I found it to be a difficult decision. I loved the people in both congregations and knew if I missed seeing them on Sunday, I might not get to visit with them for at least another week, maybe even longer. Life experience taught me that not everyone enjoys an early morning rush, and my children were no exception to this. Getting three Spaulding babies out of bed, fed and dressed, hair combed, teeth brushed, presentable and happy at 6am made getting to early worship an even greater dilemma. I think our family may have been direct descendants of our Israelites because we certainly seemed to have the corner on grumbling! Some of those blessed car rides to early morning worship permanently scarred my ear drums. When I close my eyes, I can still hear the unhappy bickering coming from the back seat of our station wagon. What a way to begin a worship experience!
Do you ever skip out of worship? I know many people who work in service professions find that their jobs require they be at work on Sunday morning. Personally, I am thankful we have churches in our community who celebrate worship services throughout the week, and even on Saturday. We need to take advantage of every opportunity to spend time together in the presence of God – it is essential to our daily walk. When we miss the corporate worship experience, regardless of our reason, our lives become imbalanced.
The man gathering wood on the Sabbath may have been hungry and needed a fire to cook food. Maybe he was cold. Maybe he was too busy to set aside the day to worship and praise the Lord. God instructed the people to stone this man to death outside the city gates for his obvious disobedience to God’s command. I’ve personally never been stoned for missing Sabbath worship, but I know how heavy my heart feels when I choose to put other things ahead of God. Sabbath worship has become the focal point of my life. I yearn to be in worship with Him. So much so, that I am drawn not only to weekend worship, but I find it is not enough to go once a week. I need Him every hour of every day. Making time to pray and praise Him every day is a joy and a gift that I cannot adequately describe. Have you ever sacrificed time during the week to worship the Lord? The precious moments fill my days with wonder and my nights with peace. Living worship is living joy. I long to worship my Lord not only on Sunday, but each and every day. If I miss this time, the rhythm of my life becomes bumpy. My happy attitude disappears. I find fault and become critical of the ones I love. I take my eyes off the prize for even a moment, and life just isn’t the same. Separation from God is a choice that can bring about a fatal error.
Fellowship with our Christian brothers and sisters, spending time praising Jesus, praying together as the body of Christ, attending Bible study, and receiving solid, foundational teaching is our life breath. It is our food. It gives us the energy to get out there and share His love with others. We need this time together. During the next forty days of Lent, will you make Sabbath worship a priority?
Grace and peace,
Deb Spaulding
www.songofdeborah.com
Pray for: the desire to spend time in worship each week. Make the Lord your number one priority. If you make time for Him, the Lord God Almighty will change the direction of your life. I’ll see you at church!
____________________________
© 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, February 21, 2007
The short arm of the Lord
Grand Sweep Daily Reading: Numbers 11, 12; Psalms 41, 42
Numbers 11:23 (NIV)
23 The Lord answered Moses, “Is the Lord’s arm too short? You will now see whether or not what I say will come true for you.”
Numbers 12:6-8 (NIV)
“When a prophet of the Lord is among you, I reveal Myself to him in visions. I speak to him in dreams. But this is not true of My servant Moses; he is faithful in all my house. With him I speak face to face, clearly and not in riddles; he sees the form of the Lord. Why then, were you not afraid to speak against my servant Moses?”
Psalm 42:7 (NIV)
7 Deep calls to deep in the roar of your waterfalls; all your waves and breakers have swept over me.
Good morning!
During worship at Faith Church last Sunday, Pastor Jeff challenged the congregation to participate in a Lenten fast. The fast will last the entire forty-day period of Lent. This is not a fast of food or water. Pastor asked us to fast our words – the ones that lead to grumbling, griping and complaining! How long can you go without oozing negativity, spitting up some cynical or belligerent chorus in a well-timed moment? Is the substance of who we really are revealed through the thoughts of our minds and the words pouring out from our lips?
The Israelites had become Complaining Pros. Check out the road sign at the entrance to their campground: “Dissatisfied with your life? Tired of eating Manna? Call 1-800-G-R-U-M-B-L-E. We’ll help you discover the sharper side of dissatisfaction. Be the best complainer you can be. Call 1-800-G-R-U-M-B-L-E. We are there to take your complaints!
Within seventy-two hours of their miraculous delivery out of Egypt, team Israel began to complain. Scripture reveals that they not only rose up in distrust against their cruise director and his family, the Israelites shook their self-righteous fist at the Lord God Almighty. It wasn’t enough to taste manna from heaven, or be satisfied with the gift of life and the promise of a new land. They had been freed from the bondage of slavery, and the presence of Almighty God dwelled within their camp. Still, God’s chosen ones rose up in anger. From their mouths poured vile, malicious words. In one large chorus the people proclaimed their lack of trust, not only in Moses, but to the God who saves them.
One critical word can cut us to the quick. Our tongues become lethal weapons when we lash out in anger and discontent. Is our dissatisfaction a result of the incompetence of our Creator or the people He has placed in our path to guide and direct us? Could it be that our unhappiness runs deeper than our circumstances? Are we heartbroken and disgusted with our inability to let go of the controls and choose to trust the Lord completely?
The fast begins right here, right now. Take the pastor’s challenge. Examine the words that spew from your mouth. Think about why the words flow out so easily. Is there a motive behind your madness? Is there a deep-seated hurt that needs His healing touch? Can we trust our God enough to see that His arm is long enough to save, redeem, and raise us?
Will you choose to trust the Lord completely during the next forty-days of your life?
Grace and peace,
Deb Spaulding
www.songofdeborah.com
Pray for: God to take control of your words, thoughts, and negative mannerisms. May you find new life and a wellspring of joy rising up and washing over you, as you begin to go deep with the Lord. Will you take the Pastor’s challenge? Will you lay down your discontent at the foot of the cross and leave it there?
____________________________
© 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: Numbers 11, 12; Psalms 41, 42
Numbers 11:23 (NIV)
23 The Lord answered Moses, “Is the Lord’s arm too short? You will now see whether or not what I say will come true for you.”
Numbers 12:6-8 (NIV)
“When a prophet of the Lord is among you, I reveal Myself to him in visions. I speak to him in dreams. But this is not true of My servant Moses; he is faithful in all my house. With him I speak face to face, clearly and not in riddles; he sees the form of the Lord. Why then, were you not afraid to speak against my servant Moses?”
Psalm 42:7 (NIV)
7 Deep calls to deep in the roar of your waterfalls; all your waves and breakers have swept over me.
Good morning!
During worship at Faith Church last Sunday, Pastor Jeff challenged the congregation to participate in a Lenten fast. The fast will last the entire forty-day period of Lent. This is not a fast of food or water. Pastor asked us to fast our words – the ones that lead to grumbling, griping and complaining! How long can you go without oozing negativity, spitting up some cynical or belligerent chorus in a well-timed moment? Is the substance of who we really are revealed through the thoughts of our minds and the words pouring out from our lips?
The Israelites had become Complaining Pros. Check out the road sign at the entrance to their campground: “Dissatisfied with your life? Tired of eating Manna? Call 1-800-G-R-U-M-B-L-E. We’ll help you discover the sharper side of dissatisfaction. Be the best complainer you can be. Call 1-800-G-R-U-M-B-L-E. We are there to take your complaints!
Within seventy-two hours of their miraculous delivery out of Egypt, team Israel began to complain. Scripture reveals that they not only rose up in distrust against their cruise director and his family, the Israelites shook their self-righteous fist at the Lord God Almighty. It wasn’t enough to taste manna from heaven, or be satisfied with the gift of life and the promise of a new land. They had been freed from the bondage of slavery, and the presence of Almighty God dwelled within their camp. Still, God’s chosen ones rose up in anger. From their mouths poured vile, malicious words. In one large chorus the people proclaimed their lack of trust, not only in Moses, but to the God who saves them.
One critical word can cut us to the quick. Our tongues become lethal weapons when we lash out in anger and discontent. Is our dissatisfaction a result of the incompetence of our Creator or the people He has placed in our path to guide and direct us? Could it be that our unhappiness runs deeper than our circumstances? Are we heartbroken and disgusted with our inability to let go of the controls and choose to trust the Lord completely?
The fast begins right here, right now. Take the pastor’s challenge. Examine the words that spew from your mouth. Think about why the words flow out so easily. Is there a motive behind your madness? Is there a deep-seated hurt that needs His healing touch? Can we trust our God enough to see that His arm is long enough to save, redeem, and raise us?
Will you choose to trust the Lord completely during the next forty-days of your life?
Grace and peace,
Deb Spaulding
www.songofdeborah.com
Pray for: God to take control of your words, thoughts, and negative mannerisms. May you find new life and a wellspring of joy rising up and washing over you, as you begin to go deep with the Lord. Will you take the Pastor’s challenge? Will you lay down your discontent at the foot of the cross and leave it there?
____________________________
© 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, February 20, 2007
The Golden Trumpets of Prayer
Grand Sweep Daily Reading: Numbers 9, 10; Psalm 40
Numbers 10:8-10 (NIV)
8 “The sons of Aaron, the priests, are to blow the trumpets. This is to be a lasting ordinance for you and the generations to come. 9 When you go into battle in your own land against an enemy who is oppressing you, sound a blast on the trumpets. Then you will be remembered by the Lord your God and rescued from your enemies. 10 Also at your times of rejoicing – your appointed feasts and New Moon festivals – you are to sound the trumpets over your burnt offerings and fellowship offerings, and they will be a memorial for you before your God. I am the Lord your God.”
Psalm 40:1-3; 16
1 I waited patiently for the Lord; He turned to me and heard my cry, 2 He lifted me out of the slimy pit, out of the mud and mire; He set my feet on a rock and gave me a firm place to stand. 3 He put a new song in my mouth, a hymn of praise to our God. Many will see and fear and put their trust in the Lord. 16 But may all who seek you rejoice and be glad in you; may those who love your salvation always say, “The Lord be exalted!”
Good morning!
I never learned how to play the trumpet when I took instrumental music in school. It takes a lot of pucker power to help shape and affect the sound quality of each note played. A good trumpeter possesses the ability to control his breathing while maintaining the chain of melody in a musical line. The sound of a trumpet is distinct and unique. Its tone can enlist a call to arms; urgency is emulated within its razor-sharp sound. The Lord instructed His priests to play the trumpets within the Israelite camp. They were to play when they went into battle against an oppressive enemy. The trumpet blast is a reminder that God is in control and through His powerful hand, they will be delivered. When the people heard the blast of the trumpet, they knew the Lord was at work for them. Their hopes and dreams rose with the peal of the trumpet call sounding throughout their encampment. Trumpets were used to celebrate life’s blessings, as an offering of thanksgiving for the bounty of His forgiveness and ongoing, intimate relationship with His people. Trumpets were employed as a tribute to remembrance in death, resurrection, and deliverance. We listen for the trumpet call even today, as we seek God out through our prayers and petitions.
When we pray, we raise our spiritual trumpets to heaven, asking God through the power of Jesus Christ to take authority and rule in every circumstance, situation, or need. We cry out to Him in urgent tones, trusting in His providence and ability to answer every plea for help. We place our faith in His care, relinquishing personal desires to His will in each circumstance. We stand on His promise to answer us, knowing His ultimate plan will prevail. We trust His perfect timing, relinquishing our personal timelines and long-range plans. Our prayers are powerful and effective when we give the Lord full reign to be the Lord of our lives. As we trust God to be God and seek His will for our world, His answers come. Hearts are changed. People are saved. Healing occurs. Do you believe that Jehovah-Jireh, our provider and redeemer, is big enough to answer your prayers?
Throughout scripture, we see what happens when people pray and trust in the Lord. When we yield ourselves to the One who has the power to effect change, we hand over the reigns to Him. We open our hearts and minds to the realm of possibility that He gives through His Son, Jesus Christ. There is no problem too hard for our Lord to handle. When we trust that He knows our needs before we even ask, we can run to Him, believe in His Word, and place our urgent petitions into His hands.
How many prayers will you pray today? Will you offer up the lives of your family and friends to God in prayer? Will you ask Him to heal someone who is suffering? Will you trust Him to save your lost loved one? Are you willing to lay down personal goals, timelines, and future plans and give God full reign over the direction of your life? Will you learn to play the trumpet He has given you? Do you believe in the power of breakthrough prayer?
Grace and peace,
Deb Spaulding
www.songofdeborah.com
Pray for: the ability to trust God completely as you lay your prayers and petitions before Him today. In the name of Jesus Christ, we have the power to pray effective prayers and we can witness the results of His Almighty hand. He not only hears us when we play our trumpets; our God answers!
____________________________
© 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: Numbers 9, 10; Psalm 40
Numbers 10:8-10 (NIV)
8 “The sons of Aaron, the priests, are to blow the trumpets. This is to be a lasting ordinance for you and the generations to come. 9 When you go into battle in your own land against an enemy who is oppressing you, sound a blast on the trumpets. Then you will be remembered by the Lord your God and rescued from your enemies. 10 Also at your times of rejoicing – your appointed feasts and New Moon festivals – you are to sound the trumpets over your burnt offerings and fellowship offerings, and they will be a memorial for you before your God. I am the Lord your God.”
Psalm 40:1-3; 16
1 I waited patiently for the Lord; He turned to me and heard my cry, 2 He lifted me out of the slimy pit, out of the mud and mire; He set my feet on a rock and gave me a firm place to stand. 3 He put a new song in my mouth, a hymn of praise to our God. Many will see and fear and put their trust in the Lord. 16 But may all who seek you rejoice and be glad in you; may those who love your salvation always say, “The Lord be exalted!”
Good morning!
I never learned how to play the trumpet when I took instrumental music in school. It takes a lot of pucker power to help shape and affect the sound quality of each note played. A good trumpeter possesses the ability to control his breathing while maintaining the chain of melody in a musical line. The sound of a trumpet is distinct and unique. Its tone can enlist a call to arms; urgency is emulated within its razor-sharp sound. The Lord instructed His priests to play the trumpets within the Israelite camp. They were to play when they went into battle against an oppressive enemy. The trumpet blast is a reminder that God is in control and through His powerful hand, they will be delivered. When the people heard the blast of the trumpet, they knew the Lord was at work for them. Their hopes and dreams rose with the peal of the trumpet call sounding throughout their encampment. Trumpets were used to celebrate life’s blessings, as an offering of thanksgiving for the bounty of His forgiveness and ongoing, intimate relationship with His people. Trumpets were employed as a tribute to remembrance in death, resurrection, and deliverance. We listen for the trumpet call even today, as we seek God out through our prayers and petitions.
When we pray, we raise our spiritual trumpets to heaven, asking God through the power of Jesus Christ to take authority and rule in every circumstance, situation, or need. We cry out to Him in urgent tones, trusting in His providence and ability to answer every plea for help. We place our faith in His care, relinquishing personal desires to His will in each circumstance. We stand on His promise to answer us, knowing His ultimate plan will prevail. We trust His perfect timing, relinquishing our personal timelines and long-range plans. Our prayers are powerful and effective when we give the Lord full reign to be the Lord of our lives. As we trust God to be God and seek His will for our world, His answers come. Hearts are changed. People are saved. Healing occurs. Do you believe that Jehovah-Jireh, our provider and redeemer, is big enough to answer your prayers?
Throughout scripture, we see what happens when people pray and trust in the Lord. When we yield ourselves to the One who has the power to effect change, we hand over the reigns to Him. We open our hearts and minds to the realm of possibility that He gives through His Son, Jesus Christ. There is no problem too hard for our Lord to handle. When we trust that He knows our needs before we even ask, we can run to Him, believe in His Word, and place our urgent petitions into His hands.
How many prayers will you pray today? Will you offer up the lives of your family and friends to God in prayer? Will you ask Him to heal someone who is suffering? Will you trust Him to save your lost loved one? Are you willing to lay down personal goals, timelines, and future plans and give God full reign over the direction of your life? Will you learn to play the trumpet He has given you? Do you believe in the power of breakthrough prayer?
Grace and peace,
Deb Spaulding
www.songofdeborah.com
Pray for: the ability to trust God completely as you lay your prayers and petitions before Him today. In the name of Jesus Christ, we have the power to pray effective prayers and we can witness the results of His Almighty hand. He not only hears us when we play our trumpets; our God answers!
____________________________
© 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, February 19, 2007
The voice of the Lord
Grand Sweep Daily Reading: Numbers 7, 8; Psalm 39
Numbers 7:89 (NIV)
89 When Moses entered the Tent of Meeting to speak with the Lord, he heard the voice speaking to him from between the two cherubim above the atonement cover on the ark of the Testimony. And he spoke with Him.
Psalm 39:3-4 (NIV)
3 My heart grew hot within me, and as I meditated, the fire burned; then I spoke with my tongue:
4 “Show me, O Lord, my life’s end and the number of my days; let me know how fleeting is my life.”
Isaiah 6:8 (NIV)
8 Then I heard the voice of the Lord saying, “Whom shall I send? And who will go for us?” And I said, “Here am I. Send me!”
Good morning!
Try to imagine what it may have been like when Moses conversed with the Lord God Almighty. Moses had many audible conversations with the Lord. He first heard God’s voice crying out through a burning bush that would not be consumed. Conversations continued upon the mountain top, where Moses worshipped the Lord on holy ground. He received the very Word of the Lord written on tablets of stone by God’s hand. In the tent of meeting, Moses listened to God’s voice crying out between two cherubim above the atonement cover on the ark of the testimony. Through clear, audible tones, Moses experienced God in ways we may never fully understand. The Lord was a visible and audible presence to Moses and His beloved children wandering in the desert.
How do we hear God’s voice? Is it His still, small voice that sings in the wind, whipping through the treetops late at night? Can we hear Him in the crackle of a campfire, or in the rushing water of a clear mountain stream? Maybe the voice of God is revealed through the sweet sound of a newborn baby nursing at his mother’s breast for the very first time. Is God’s voice revealed in the tender melody of a little child singing the words, Jesus Loves Me, this I know? Have you heard the voice of God calling you? Can you hear Him crying out in the night?
A portrait of a pastor hangs in my husband's office at church. He is leading a worship service and is preaching the Gospel message with great fervor. He holds an open scripture in one hand; his other hand is outstretched toward heaven. The look on this pastor’s face radiates a holy glow that only comes from a deep and abiding love for God. Behind him, one can see the silhouettes of the apostles and prophets, who spoke the Word of the Lord before him. Standing directly behind him is the Lord Jesus Christ himself, offering prayers of intercession while laying His holy hand upon the pastor’s shoulder. It is Christ who whispers into the pastor’s ear. The anointing of the Holy Spirit is a true mystery; it is a gift from God. For those who yearn to listen with their spirit, they can hear the voice of the Lord speak through their pastor as they preach. When you sat in church this weekend, did you hear the audible Word of the Lord speaking directly to you? Could you see the holy glow radiating from your pastor’s face? Was the presence of the Lord powerful and effective? Could you reach out and touch Him with your hand?
Whenever I open my Bible to study, I can hear the voice of God speaking through His holy Word. The message leaps off the page and begins to transform my heart as I feed from its truth. When I listen to my Sunday school teachers who devote time and attention each week in exploring and unpacking the scripture for my benefit, I am grateful to experience the living Word of God through them. I can hear Him speak. I see Jesus in the eyes of my Faith family. They dearly love Him, know Him, and strive to live for Him each and every day. Through their life’s example, I am challenged to study and learn more.
My favorite moments with the Lord are spent when I simply sit in His presence and wait for Him. Spending time in prayer and meditation draws me into His loving arms. Sometimes my heart races with pure joy, knowing that He is near. There is an unspeakable comfort and peace; I experience rest in Him; and there is an everlasting, abiding love. In the silence as I wait for Him, Jesus whispers to my heart. Where there are no words, I can hear Him speak. Have you ever felt God speak to your spirit? Do you know the joy of His amazing love?
In the busyness of each day, take some time to listen for the voice of the Lord. He is all around you, ever present, waiting to reveal Himself to the ones who earnestly cry out for mercy and grace. We can experience the voice of the Lord through the people whom God has placed in our path. Listen to His Word as it is proclaimed from the pulpit of your sanctuary. Hear Him shake the rafters of your soul through the Scripture leaping from the pages you read each day. Wait for Him in the stillness of the night, as you pray and seek His face. If you draw near to the Lord, He will draw near to you.
Grace and peace,
Deb Spaulding
www.songofdeborah.com
Pray for: ears to hear, eyes to see, and a willing heart to answer when God speaks. Are you willing to answer the Lord when he speaks to you? Will you hear Him when he calls your name?
____________________________
© 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: Numbers 7, 8; Psalm 39
Numbers 7:89 (NIV)
89 When Moses entered the Tent of Meeting to speak with the Lord, he heard the voice speaking to him from between the two cherubim above the atonement cover on the ark of the Testimony. And he spoke with Him.
Psalm 39:3-4 (NIV)
3 My heart grew hot within me, and as I meditated, the fire burned; then I spoke with my tongue:
4 “Show me, O Lord, my life’s end and the number of my days; let me know how fleeting is my life.”
Isaiah 6:8 (NIV)
8 Then I heard the voice of the Lord saying, “Whom shall I send? And who will go for us?” And I said, “Here am I. Send me!”
Good morning!
Try to imagine what it may have been like when Moses conversed with the Lord God Almighty. Moses had many audible conversations with the Lord. He first heard God’s voice crying out through a burning bush that would not be consumed. Conversations continued upon the mountain top, where Moses worshipped the Lord on holy ground. He received the very Word of the Lord written on tablets of stone by God’s hand. In the tent of meeting, Moses listened to God’s voice crying out between two cherubim above the atonement cover on the ark of the testimony. Through clear, audible tones, Moses experienced God in ways we may never fully understand. The Lord was a visible and audible presence to Moses and His beloved children wandering in the desert.
How do we hear God’s voice? Is it His still, small voice that sings in the wind, whipping through the treetops late at night? Can we hear Him in the crackle of a campfire, or in the rushing water of a clear mountain stream? Maybe the voice of God is revealed through the sweet sound of a newborn baby nursing at his mother’s breast for the very first time. Is God’s voice revealed in the tender melody of a little child singing the words, Jesus Loves Me, this I know? Have you heard the voice of God calling you? Can you hear Him crying out in the night?
A portrait of a pastor hangs in my husband's office at church. He is leading a worship service and is preaching the Gospel message with great fervor. He holds an open scripture in one hand; his other hand is outstretched toward heaven. The look on this pastor’s face radiates a holy glow that only comes from a deep and abiding love for God. Behind him, one can see the silhouettes of the apostles and prophets, who spoke the Word of the Lord before him. Standing directly behind him is the Lord Jesus Christ himself, offering prayers of intercession while laying His holy hand upon the pastor’s shoulder. It is Christ who whispers into the pastor’s ear. The anointing of the Holy Spirit is a true mystery; it is a gift from God. For those who yearn to listen with their spirit, they can hear the voice of the Lord speak through their pastor as they preach. When you sat in church this weekend, did you hear the audible Word of the Lord speaking directly to you? Could you see the holy glow radiating from your pastor’s face? Was the presence of the Lord powerful and effective? Could you reach out and touch Him with your hand?
Whenever I open my Bible to study, I can hear the voice of God speaking through His holy Word. The message leaps off the page and begins to transform my heart as I feed from its truth. When I listen to my Sunday school teachers who devote time and attention each week in exploring and unpacking the scripture for my benefit, I am grateful to experience the living Word of God through them. I can hear Him speak. I see Jesus in the eyes of my Faith family. They dearly love Him, know Him, and strive to live for Him each and every day. Through their life’s example, I am challenged to study and learn more.
My favorite moments with the Lord are spent when I simply sit in His presence and wait for Him. Spending time in prayer and meditation draws me into His loving arms. Sometimes my heart races with pure joy, knowing that He is near. There is an unspeakable comfort and peace; I experience rest in Him; and there is an everlasting, abiding love. In the silence as I wait for Him, Jesus whispers to my heart. Where there are no words, I can hear Him speak. Have you ever felt God speak to your spirit? Do you know the joy of His amazing love?
In the busyness of each day, take some time to listen for the voice of the Lord. He is all around you, ever present, waiting to reveal Himself to the ones who earnestly cry out for mercy and grace. We can experience the voice of the Lord through the people whom God has placed in our path. Listen to His Word as it is proclaimed from the pulpit of your sanctuary. Hear Him shake the rafters of your soul through the Scripture leaping from the pages you read each day. Wait for Him in the stillness of the night, as you pray and seek His face. If you draw near to the Lord, He will draw near to you.
Grace and peace,
Deb Spaulding
www.songofdeborah.com
Pray for: ears to hear, eyes to see, and a willing heart to answer when God speaks. Are you willing to answer the Lord when he speaks to you? Will you hear Him when he calls your name?
____________________________
© 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, February 18, 2007
Robbing God
Grand Sweep Daily Reading: Numbers 4, 5, 6
Numbers 6:21 (NIV)
21 This is the law of the Nazarite who vows his offering to the Lord in accordance with his separation, in addition to whatever else he can afford. He must fulfill the vow he has made, according to the law of the Nazarite.
Malachi 3:8-9 (NIV)
8 “Will a man rob God? Yet you rob me.” But you ask, ‘How do we rob you?’ “In tithes and offerings. 9 You are under a curse – the whole nation of you – because you are robbing me.”
Acts 5:3-4 (NIV)
3 Then Peter said, “Ananias, how is it that Satan has so filled your heart that you have lied to the Holy Spirit and have kept for yourself some of the money you received for the land? 4 Didn’t it belong to you before it was sold? And after it was sold, wasn’t the money at your disposal? What made you think of doing such a thing? You have not lied to men but to God.”
Good morning!
How much can you afford to give the Lord? An even greater question may be: How much can you afford not to give Him? As we read through the books of law and study the instructions God gave Moses to His people, we begin to realize the significance He places on our daily offerings. It is obvious that the Lord loves His children with a passion. He desires to extend His presence and blessing upon all those who choose to love and obey Him. Yet, there can be no lasting relationship or bond between God and man without their daily commitment, total devotion, and willingness to obey in every circumstance. From where I sit, that is a pretty tall order.
Do you ever cheat God intentionally? Some people believe if they give the Lord an hour of their time on Saturday or Sunday, they have fulfilled God’s required Sabbath expectation. Do you find the need to worship more of a weekly habit, an obligation to meet, or has it become a lifeline to your body, mind and spirit? Should the time we spend in worship ever really end?
There are some people who would much rather write a check to the church than offer their time to benefit the needs of others. While there is no doubt that monies are desperately needed to help fund projects that will make a lasting difference, sometimes we find it much easier to give a little more money, and a little less of ourselves. We believe our obligations have been fulfilled. Is it really enough? How much time does God realistically expect from you and me?
In my own walk with the Lord, I find that He sees right through me. Not only does God know the true desires of my heart, He sees my motivation or lack thereof. For me, it is not enough to give an hour, a seed offering, a thirty-second prayer, or even an occasional assist to someone who needs a helping hand. I don’t know that I’ll ever be able to give back enough to express the thankfulness I feel to the One who has saves and breathes new life into my heart every morning. The gift of forgiveness and relationship with Him is the most precious thing I have ever received. So why would I choose to cheat Him? Why would anyone choose to intentionally rob the Lord?
If I were to try and make a laundry list of every single time I didn’t give my all, I would be typing for all eternity. We defend our motives, justify our thoughts, and raise up our good deeds for all to see and applaud. We think we’re fooling those around us – we may even succeed at deceiving each other and maybe even ourselves. We will NEVER be able to fool the Lord. He reads us like an open book.
God knows I’m far from perfect. I miss the mark every day in every way. His grace and mercy is all I can possibly hope for. The righteousness of Jesus Christ is what I need. He took my every mistake, every intentional act of deceit, and hung naked on a Roman cross of torture and shame just so I could be free from sin and death. He purchased my soul on Calvary’s tree. Will my meager offering ever be enough? Is there anything I would purposely withhold from the One who gives me life?
Grace and peace,
Deb Spaulding
www.songofdeborah.com
Pray for: understanding. You have been bought with a heavy price. What will you offer the Lord today? Will you give Him your all?
____________________________
© 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: Numbers 4, 5, 6
Numbers 6:21 (NIV)
21 This is the law of the Nazarite who vows his offering to the Lord in accordance with his separation, in addition to whatever else he can afford. He must fulfill the vow he has made, according to the law of the Nazarite.
Malachi 3:8-9 (NIV)
8 “Will a man rob God? Yet you rob me.” But you ask, ‘How do we rob you?’ “In tithes and offerings. 9 You are under a curse – the whole nation of you – because you are robbing me.”
Acts 5:3-4 (NIV)
3 Then Peter said, “Ananias, how is it that Satan has so filled your heart that you have lied to the Holy Spirit and have kept for yourself some of the money you received for the land? 4 Didn’t it belong to you before it was sold? And after it was sold, wasn’t the money at your disposal? What made you think of doing such a thing? You have not lied to men but to God.”
Good morning!
How much can you afford to give the Lord? An even greater question may be: How much can you afford not to give Him? As we read through the books of law and study the instructions God gave Moses to His people, we begin to realize the significance He places on our daily offerings. It is obvious that the Lord loves His children with a passion. He desires to extend His presence and blessing upon all those who choose to love and obey Him. Yet, there can be no lasting relationship or bond between God and man without their daily commitment, total devotion, and willingness to obey in every circumstance. From where I sit, that is a pretty tall order.
Do you ever cheat God intentionally? Some people believe if they give the Lord an hour of their time on Saturday or Sunday, they have fulfilled God’s required Sabbath expectation. Do you find the need to worship more of a weekly habit, an obligation to meet, or has it become a lifeline to your body, mind and spirit? Should the time we spend in worship ever really end?
There are some people who would much rather write a check to the church than offer their time to benefit the needs of others. While there is no doubt that monies are desperately needed to help fund projects that will make a lasting difference, sometimes we find it much easier to give a little more money, and a little less of ourselves. We believe our obligations have been fulfilled. Is it really enough? How much time does God realistically expect from you and me?
In my own walk with the Lord, I find that He sees right through me. Not only does God know the true desires of my heart, He sees my motivation or lack thereof. For me, it is not enough to give an hour, a seed offering, a thirty-second prayer, or even an occasional assist to someone who needs a helping hand. I don’t know that I’ll ever be able to give back enough to express the thankfulness I feel to the One who has saves and breathes new life into my heart every morning. The gift of forgiveness and relationship with Him is the most precious thing I have ever received. So why would I choose to cheat Him? Why would anyone choose to intentionally rob the Lord?
If I were to try and make a laundry list of every single time I didn’t give my all, I would be typing for all eternity. We defend our motives, justify our thoughts, and raise up our good deeds for all to see and applaud. We think we’re fooling those around us – we may even succeed at deceiving each other and maybe even ourselves. We will NEVER be able to fool the Lord. He reads us like an open book.
God knows I’m far from perfect. I miss the mark every day in every way. His grace and mercy is all I can possibly hope for. The righteousness of Jesus Christ is what I need. He took my every mistake, every intentional act of deceit, and hung naked on a Roman cross of torture and shame just so I could be free from sin and death. He purchased my soul on Calvary’s tree. Will my meager offering ever be enough? Is there anything I would purposely withhold from the One who gives me life?
Grace and peace,
Deb Spaulding
www.songofdeborah.com
Pray for: understanding. You have been bought with a heavy price. What will you offer the Lord today? Will you give Him your all?
____________________________
© 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.
Saturday, February 17, 2007
Waiting for Him
Grand Sweep Daily Reading: Numbers 1, 2, 3; Psalm 38
Numbers 2:1-2, 34 (NIV)
1 The Lord said to Moses and Aaron: 2 ”The Israelites are to camp around the Tent of Meeting some distance from it, each man under his standard with the banners of his family.”
34 So the Israelites did everything the Lord commanded Moses; that is the way they encamped under their standards, and that is the way they set out, each with his clan and family.
Psalm 38:15 (NIV)
15 I wait for you, O Lord; you will answer, O Lord my God.
James 1:2-4 (NIV)
2 Consider it pure joy, my brothers, whenever you face trials of many kinds, 3 because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance. 4 Perseverance must finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything.
Good morning!
Humanity spends a lot of time preparing for the challenges and surprises encountered through daily living. We prepare presentations to present to our colleagues at work, and for classes at school. We prepare meals to serve to our family. We plan for, prepare and practice exit strategies in the event of an emergency. We prepare ourselves to assume new and greater responsibilities in our vocations through study and practice. We plan for and prepare to marry, for the arrival of a new little life; we persevere with our children and grandchildren while raising them up. We give them the resources and guidance needed to develop a greater desire to learn and grow; to find out not only who they are, but whose they are. Through every phase of life, we focus our energies in preparation, practice and perseverance. We set the goal before us, and we move toward it, day by day.
The Israelites spent some much needed practice time in the Lord’s campground. The Lord instructed Moses to conduct a census, counting the numbers in the various tribes and clans, and creating a special place for them in community. Every tribe had a special assigned seating arrangement around the perimeter of the Tent of Meeting. The Tent of Meeting and the Tabernacle of the Lord was their focal point for life. Knowing and worshipping God was their single most important goal. Everything they did was to bring honor and to glorify the One who truly deserves all of their attention, time, and devotion. When we learn to focus our hearts and minds upon the one thing that truly matters, everything else falls into place.
Waiting is never easy. We spend a lot of time waiting in line at the grocery store, or sitting in a traffic jam on the highway. We wait for our turn in the doctor’s office; we wait on hold for lengthy periods of time while trying to reach a customer service representative who is really alive and not a computerized voice message service. We wait for our loved ones to arrive home safely after a long day at work. Learning to wait with patience is a lesson that is only learned through the adversities we face. I don’t know anyone who personally looks forward to suffering some sort of setback, financial blow, or illness. Yet, some of the greatest values in life are borne from the adversities we live out in our daily lives.
As we begin to grow in our relationship with the Lord, we learn to wait for Him, sometimes for years, as God reveals Himself through the many life experiences we endure. It is hard to be joyful in a journey that is difficult. Things happen. People go away. They come back. We become ill. We get well. We fail. We succeed. We struggle. We hope. We grow. We live. We die. We live again. James says that we should count every experience, good or bad, as pure joy. The things we face in life helps us learn to persevere. It is the benchmark for maturity and completion. Jesus Christ came to complete the circle of relationship between God and man. He is the perfection of our faith. We can trust Him no matter where we are, if we place Him in the center of our life, focus on His love, praise Him for His wonderful work, and learn to live daily in His presence. When we learn to do this, all of the other things we experience become secondary. The only thing that truly matters is finding your life in relationship to the Lord. Do you know Him? Is He the centerpiece of your life? Is your goal to know Him more? Are you willing to wait for Him, seek Him out, practice and persevere in what He teaches, setting your life’s goal to love and adore Him?
My prayer for you is that you will count your life experience as pure joy, while you practice perseverance and wait for Jesus Christ to complete your life as He would see fit. You are His priceless treasure. Is His love priceless to you?
Grace and peace,
Deb Spaulding
www.songofdeborah.com
Pray for: a willing and joyful heart, as you learn to practice perseverance while waiting for the Lord. He will complete His mighty work in you, if you are willing to give your life to Him. Will He be your centerpiece today? His love is so worth waiting for. Jesus Christ is the only way, He is the only truth, and He is the only life you will ever need! Come to Jesus and live! I’ll see you at church.
____________________________
© 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: Numbers 1, 2, 3; Psalm 38
Numbers 2:1-2, 34 (NIV)
1 The Lord said to Moses and Aaron: 2 ”The Israelites are to camp around the Tent of Meeting some distance from it, each man under his standard with the banners of his family.”
34 So the Israelites did everything the Lord commanded Moses; that is the way they encamped under their standards, and that is the way they set out, each with his clan and family.
Psalm 38:15 (NIV)
15 I wait for you, O Lord; you will answer, O Lord my God.
James 1:2-4 (NIV)
2 Consider it pure joy, my brothers, whenever you face trials of many kinds, 3 because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance. 4 Perseverance must finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything.
Good morning!
Humanity spends a lot of time preparing for the challenges and surprises encountered through daily living. We prepare presentations to present to our colleagues at work, and for classes at school. We prepare meals to serve to our family. We plan for, prepare and practice exit strategies in the event of an emergency. We prepare ourselves to assume new and greater responsibilities in our vocations through study and practice. We plan for and prepare to marry, for the arrival of a new little life; we persevere with our children and grandchildren while raising them up. We give them the resources and guidance needed to develop a greater desire to learn and grow; to find out not only who they are, but whose they are. Through every phase of life, we focus our energies in preparation, practice and perseverance. We set the goal before us, and we move toward it, day by day.
The Israelites spent some much needed practice time in the Lord’s campground. The Lord instructed Moses to conduct a census, counting the numbers in the various tribes and clans, and creating a special place for them in community. Every tribe had a special assigned seating arrangement around the perimeter of the Tent of Meeting. The Tent of Meeting and the Tabernacle of the Lord was their focal point for life. Knowing and worshipping God was their single most important goal. Everything they did was to bring honor and to glorify the One who truly deserves all of their attention, time, and devotion. When we learn to focus our hearts and minds upon the one thing that truly matters, everything else falls into place.
Waiting is never easy. We spend a lot of time waiting in line at the grocery store, or sitting in a traffic jam on the highway. We wait for our turn in the doctor’s office; we wait on hold for lengthy periods of time while trying to reach a customer service representative who is really alive and not a computerized voice message service. We wait for our loved ones to arrive home safely after a long day at work. Learning to wait with patience is a lesson that is only learned through the adversities we face. I don’t know anyone who personally looks forward to suffering some sort of setback, financial blow, or illness. Yet, some of the greatest values in life are borne from the adversities we live out in our daily lives.
As we begin to grow in our relationship with the Lord, we learn to wait for Him, sometimes for years, as God reveals Himself through the many life experiences we endure. It is hard to be joyful in a journey that is difficult. Things happen. People go away. They come back. We become ill. We get well. We fail. We succeed. We struggle. We hope. We grow. We live. We die. We live again. James says that we should count every experience, good or bad, as pure joy. The things we face in life helps us learn to persevere. It is the benchmark for maturity and completion. Jesus Christ came to complete the circle of relationship between God and man. He is the perfection of our faith. We can trust Him no matter where we are, if we place Him in the center of our life, focus on His love, praise Him for His wonderful work, and learn to live daily in His presence. When we learn to do this, all of the other things we experience become secondary. The only thing that truly matters is finding your life in relationship to the Lord. Do you know Him? Is He the centerpiece of your life? Is your goal to know Him more? Are you willing to wait for Him, seek Him out, practice and persevere in what He teaches, setting your life’s goal to love and adore Him?
My prayer for you is that you will count your life experience as pure joy, while you practice perseverance and wait for Jesus Christ to complete your life as He would see fit. You are His priceless treasure. Is His love priceless to you?
Grace and peace,
Deb Spaulding
www.songofdeborah.com
Pray for: a willing and joyful heart, as you learn to practice perseverance while waiting for the Lord. He will complete His mighty work in you, if you are willing to give your life to Him. Will He be your centerpiece today? His love is so worth waiting for. Jesus Christ is the only way, He is the only truth, and He is the only life you will ever need! Come to Jesus and live! I’ll see you at church.
____________________________
© 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, February 16, 2007
Soul Patrol
Grand Sweep Daily
Leviticus 26:11-13 (NIV)
11 I will put my dwelling place among you, and I will not abhor you. 12 I will walk among you and be your God, and you will be my people. 13 I am the Lord your God, who brought you out of
Luke 1:68 (NIV)
68 Praise be to the Lord, the God of
Romans 8:25-27 (NIV)
25 But if we hope for what we do not yet have, we wait for it patiently. 26 In the same way, the Spirit helps us in our weakness. We do not know what we ought to pray for, but the Spirit himself intercedes for us with groans that words cannot express. 27 And He who searches our hearts knows the mind of the Spirit, because the Spirit intercedes for the saints in accordance with God’s will.
Good morning!
I’ll never forget the day I sold my 1988 Mercury Cougar. It had 238,000 miles logged when I drove it onto the car lot. That V-8 engine had a hum that I’ve never heard in other cars. It was a powerful machine and it was fun to drive! I had replaced almost every major part in this car and probably could have repurchased it twice over with the money I spent to keep it running. I’ll never forget the look of sheer satisfaction on the face of the dealer after he took a little test drive. Hopping out of the vehicle, he exclaimed, “Mrs. Spaulding, that car still has pick up!” Oh, yes Lord! I’m a sentimental fool and I’m not ashamed to say that I get attached to my automobiles. For four years, I drove my baby back and forth between
I spend a lot of time on the road, and it is time well spent. While flying down the highway in my lean, mean prayer machine, I offer intercession for my brothers and sisters on the road – especially the ones that use special hand gestures as they pass me by. I’ve witnessed plenty of road rage out there. My car could have taken their car any day, but somehow, there are a lot of people on the roadway who really have no appreciation with drivers who try to drive at the posted speed limit. Could we really be in that big of a hurry? Prayer time is an integral part of my weekly commute. I pray for the people in the towns I drive by. I pray for my family at home and at church. I pray for mercy in inclement weather, and I pray for help when I’m in imminent danger. I pray for the deer not to run out in front of my vehicle. The Lord teaches me the value of fly-by prayer. Some people like to prayer walk. I do my own thing prayer driving.
Is your car a worship center? Do you meet the Lord in your automobile every morning when you leave for work or school? I’m finding that my God lives in the most unusual spaces. His Spirit is ever present and with me as I drive down the highway of life. Driving a prayermobile is an empowering experience. I love placing myself in the Lord’s hand and giving Him full reign to do whatever He wants. My fellow commuters have no idea what is happening as they pass me by on the road. I’m praying for their souls. I’m asking the Lord of life to grab them right where they are, sitting in their vehicles, armed and dangerous with their Starbucks cup in one hand and cell phone in the other. They don’t have chance if I’m in the next lane. They’re going to have an encounter with Jesus, because I’m praying it and He is doing it. There is no way I can possibly know my neighbor’s specific need, but I know that Jesus knows and that is more than enough information for me to act on in prayer. When the Lord spoke to Moses and gave Him the law for the Israelites, the Great I Am promised He would dwell with His people – they would be His and He would be theirs. He redeemed His children at a heavy cost and loves them with a passion. It is a privilege to pray for souls. Through Jesus Christ, we have His power to bring people to Him. The next time someone flips you off on the highway of life, open your mouth and ask the Lord to touch them, heal them, love them, and bless them. We can be the soul patrol right where we live! Enjoy the ride, my friends. Why don’t you let the Lord drive for awhile?
Grace and peace,
Deb Spaulding
Pray for: Jesus Christ to invade the space of your fellow commuters and the cities you pass through in your daily commute. We may not know specifically what to pray for, but if the Lord wills to be in relationship with His precious children, we can ask for it in Jesus name. And in the name of Jesus, 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.
Thursday, February 15, 2007
A Sure and Certain Light
Grand Sweep Daily Reading: Leviticus 22, 23, 24
Leviticus 24:3-4 (NIV)
3 Outside the curtain of the Testimony in the Tent of Meeting, Aaron is to tend the lamps before the Lord from evening till morning, continually. This is to be a lasting ordinance for the generations to come. 4 The lamps on the pure gold lamp stand before the Lord must be tended continually.
Matthew 5:14-16 (NIV)
You are the light of the world. A city on a hill cannot be hidden. 15 Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house. 16 In the same way, let your light shine before men, that they may see your good deeds and praise your Father in heaven.
Acts 26:18 (NIV)
I am sending you to them 18 to open their eyes and turn them from darkness to light, and from the power of Satan to God, so that they may receive forgiveness of sins and a place among those who are sanctified by faith in me.
Good morning!
The Tent of Meeting is a hot topic of discussion in our home. Jeff and I spent some time on the Internet looking at visual aids illustrating the dimensions and elements of this holy place. Jeff downloaded a screensaver of the Tent of Meeting that is truly fascinating. In the picture, the fire of the Lord is pouring out of the sky and down into the Holy of Holies within the Tent of Meeting. The Israelites had pitched their tents around the perimeter of the Tabernacle, each tribe assigned to a specific location and duty. No matter where they were camped, the light of the Lord is visible and clear. The Great I Am first appeared to Moses in the form of a burning bush. He continues to reveal Himself through fire and flame. His light is sure and certain and it will never end.
I’ve always enjoyed the light of a warm and toasty fire on a cold winter’s night. There are nights when the only light in our home is shadowed in the hue of the flames streaming from the fireplace and the candlelight dancing upon the hearth. There is something compelling about the flickering flame. The candlelight brings clarity and visual acuity in what might otherwise be total darkness. If you’ve ever jumped up in the middle of the night and stubbed your toe on a piece of furniture, you may appreciate having the light of a candle to guide your path and protect you from the dangers in the dark.
When the Apostle Paul defended his actions before King Agrippa, he repeated the words of Jesus as he experienced him on the Damascus road. This single encounter became the benchmark for Paul’s faith. He set his course by the light of Jesus Christ and the call to serve. Paul willingly gave his life over to the light of Christ, allowing that light to consume him. Every word Paul spoke was offered so that people might hear the Good News and believe in Jesus, thereby receiving forgiveness for sin and new life in Him. The light of Christ provides daily strength to overcome the power of darkness. Just like Paul, eyes are opened and hearts are changed when people see the living Christ shining brightly in you and me.
It is no wonder that the Lord gave specific instruction to Moses that Aaron and the priests must continually tend to the lamps on the pure golden lamp stands. His light must never go out. It was His light that would draw His children home. They would look for it, long for it, and live in it. Jesus Christ teaches that we are the light of the world. Is your faith a flame that continually burns? Does the light of the Lord shine brightly in you so that those around you can see the way to go? Are you a city on a hill that cannot be hidden?
God’s light is continual, it is certain, and it will never end. Allow the light of Jesus Christ to fill you up with His love today. May you prepare your heart to be a home where Jesus can live and reign and work through you. Are you willing to be His light bearer?
Grace and peace,
Deb Spaulding
www.songofdeborah.com
Pray for: the light of Jesus Christ to become your benchmark for daily living.
____________________________
© 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: Leviticus 22, 23, 24
Leviticus 24:3-4 (NIV)
3 Outside the curtain of the Testimony in the Tent of Meeting, Aaron is to tend the lamps before the Lord from evening till morning, continually. This is to be a lasting ordinance for the generations to come. 4 The lamps on the pure gold lamp stand before the Lord must be tended continually.
Matthew 5:14-16 (NIV)
You are the light of the world. A city on a hill cannot be hidden. 15 Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house. 16 In the same way, let your light shine before men, that they may see your good deeds and praise your Father in heaven.
Acts 26:18 (NIV)
I am sending you to them 18 to open their eyes and turn them from darkness to light, and from the power of Satan to God, so that they may receive forgiveness of sins and a place among those who are sanctified by faith in me.
Good morning!
The Tent of Meeting is a hot topic of discussion in our home. Jeff and I spent some time on the Internet looking at visual aids illustrating the dimensions and elements of this holy place. Jeff downloaded a screensaver of the Tent of Meeting that is truly fascinating. In the picture, the fire of the Lord is pouring out of the sky and down into the Holy of Holies within the Tent of Meeting. The Israelites had pitched their tents around the perimeter of the Tabernacle, each tribe assigned to a specific location and duty. No matter where they were camped, the light of the Lord is visible and clear. The Great I Am first appeared to Moses in the form of a burning bush. He continues to reveal Himself through fire and flame. His light is sure and certain and it will never end.
I’ve always enjoyed the light of a warm and toasty fire on a cold winter’s night. There are nights when the only light in our home is shadowed in the hue of the flames streaming from the fireplace and the candlelight dancing upon the hearth. There is something compelling about the flickering flame. The candlelight brings clarity and visual acuity in what might otherwise be total darkness. If you’ve ever jumped up in the middle of the night and stubbed your toe on a piece of furniture, you may appreciate having the light of a candle to guide your path and protect you from the dangers in the dark.
When the Apostle Paul defended his actions before King Agrippa, he repeated the words of Jesus as he experienced him on the Damascus road. This single encounter became the benchmark for Paul’s faith. He set his course by the light of Jesus Christ and the call to serve. Paul willingly gave his life over to the light of Christ, allowing that light to consume him. Every word Paul spoke was offered so that people might hear the Good News and believe in Jesus, thereby receiving forgiveness for sin and new life in Him. The light of Christ provides daily strength to overcome the power of darkness. Just like Paul, eyes are opened and hearts are changed when people see the living Christ shining brightly in you and me.
It is no wonder that the Lord gave specific instruction to Moses that Aaron and the priests must continually tend to the lamps on the pure golden lamp stands. His light must never go out. It was His light that would draw His children home. They would look for it, long for it, and live in it. Jesus Christ teaches that we are the light of the world. Is your faith a flame that continually burns? Does the light of the Lord shine brightly in you so that those around you can see the way to go? Are you a city on a hill that cannot be hidden?
God’s light is continual, it is certain, and it will never end. Allow the light of Jesus Christ to fill you up with His love today. May you prepare your heart to be a home where Jesus can live and reign and work through you. Are you willing to be His light bearer?
Grace and peace,
Deb Spaulding
www.songofdeborah.com
Pray for: the light of Jesus Christ to become your benchmark for daily living.
____________________________
© 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, February 14, 2007
His love is worth the wait!
Grand Sweep Daily
Leviticus 19:1-2 (NIV)
1 The Lord said to Moses, 2 “Speak to the entire assembly of
Psalm 37:3-4, 7, 34 (NIV)
3 Trust in the Lord and do good; dwell in the land and enjoy safe pasture.
4 Delight yourself in the Lord and He will give you the desires of your heart.
7 Be still before the Lord and wait patiently for Him; do not fret when men succeed in their ways.
34 Wait for the Lord and keep His way.
Good morning!
When Jeff and I were dating, we used to write sappy love letters to each other. Whenever we could eek out five extra minutes between classes or take a break at work, we would pick up our pens and write the craziest stuff to each other. This, of course, was before the age of cell phones and blackberries. Yes, my friends, there was life and love before wireless technology took over our world. And the 70’s was a grand time to be hopelessly devoted and head-over-heels in love. Have you ever written a love letter? I used every flowery adjective I could think of. About a year ago, I was pilfering through some boxes in the basement and came across letters that we had saved from our dating years. Being the avid scrapaholic that I am, I took those time-honored notes and begin placing them in scrapbooks. Now they are preserved forever for our children and grandchildren and their children to laugh over and enjoy. Not only will our family will have proof positive of Granny Deb and Pa’s romantic inclinations, they will know that we were both certifiably in love.
Because of our crazy school and work schedules, we did not get to see each other every day. Talking on the phone was not always possible. I loved waiting for the mail to arrive. Waiting and anticipating another letter from my “hunk of burning love” was an amazing experience. You know you are going to receive something really special and it is so worth waiting for. Jeff’s letters never disappointed me. I knew he was thinking about me even when we were apart, and that was all the affirmation I needed! The joy of being in love is a glorious, beautiful, and wonderful experience – it is matchless in every way.
Every morning when I awake, I look for just the right words to describe the love I have for my Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. Sometimes, I am simply at a loss with the words in my English vocabulary that even comes close to describing what I feel in my heart for Him. The Lord must giggle when he reads my heartfelt, sappy and flowery sentiment. I long to find a way to convey just how much He means to me; how thankful I am that He cared enough to give His life in exchange for mine. I’ve never known a greater love than the love of Jesus Christ. I am convinced there will never ever be a greater love. He is everything to me.
When I pray, I hear Jesus whispering in my ear. He gently says, “Wait for me.” The joy of waiting for Him brings color to my cheeks, a bounce in my step, and a hopeful anticipation of His return. Jesus is so worth waiting for! While I sit in His awesome presence, I prepare and wait for the love of my life to come. I know that when I see His face, the time I spent waiting and welcoming Him into my heart will be worth it. There is a holiness that comes with waiting patiently for the Lord. I am physically, emotionally and spiritually creating a sacred space for Him to dwell in my life. As I center my mind on Christ’s love, I am drawn deeper into His presence. It is like having heaven here on earth, while I wait with eager anticipation for His presence to fill my life. I don’t know how He does it, but those priceless moments of waiting for Him and daily meditating on His Word is what frees me for joyful living! How can I not share this experience with the world? I want to shout it from the roof top – I’m in love with the One who gives me a reason to live! My Redeemer lives and He lives for me and for you! Come and meet the One who will sweep your heart away forever. Jesus is wonderful, Jesus is beautiful, and Jesus is glorious. There is no other love like the love of my Savior. Why don’t you take a moment and write Him a love letter today? Give Jesus Christ your heart.
Grace and peace,
Deb Spaulding
Pray for: Christ’s presence to fill you up, keeping you safe and warm while you wait for His imminent return. Open your Bible this morning and read out loud His love letter written just for you. Won’t you give Jesus your very best? Give Him your heart today.
____________________________
© 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, February 13, 2007
Transformation from the inside out
Grand Sweep Daily
Leviticus
34 This is to be a lasting ordinance for you: Atonement is to be made once a year for all the sins of the Israelites. And it was done, as the Lord commanded Moses.
II Corinthians 3:12-18 (NIV)
12 Therefore, since we have such a hope, we are very bold. 13 We are not like Moses, who would put a veil over his face to keep the Israelites from gazing at it while the radiance was fading away. 14 But their minds were made dull, for to this day the same veil remains when the old covenant is read. It has not been removed, because only in Christ is it taken away. 15 Even to this day when Moses is read, a veil covers their hearts. 16 But whenever anyone turns to the Lord, the veil is taken away. 18 And we, who with unveiled faces all reflect the Lord’s glory, are being transformed into His likeness with ever-increasing glory, which comes from the Lord, who is the Spirit.
Good morning!
The Lord gave Moses specific and detailed instructions surrounding the annual ritual known as the Day of Atonement. Once a year, Aaron was only allowed into the Most Holy of Holy places to offer sin and guilt offerings for himself, his family, and for the Israelite people. On this special day, Aaron would follow the instruction of the Lord, and sacrifice a young bull for the sin offering and a ram for the burnt offering. He would bathe and dress in the special garments to be used only for the purpose of fulfilling the sacrifice of atonement. Two goats would be presented; one would be sacrificed as a sin offering and the other goat became the scapegoat, bearing the shame and guilt of all the people. This goat would then be taken to a deserted place and let loose to wander and die alone. All the while, Aaron would sprinkle the blood of the offerings around the atonement cover. Without the blood, these offerings would not bring forth the much-needed forgiveness for sin.
Aaron’s act of worship created an environment for change inside the tabernacle. By welcoming God through the sacrifice of worship, he laid the foundation for God to forgive and forget. It is an amazing thing when God forgives and forgets. What a blessing it is to serve the One who loves us that much.
When Jesus grabs hold of your heart, everything changes. He is the fulfillment of all Scripture. It is His love that overcame sin and death once and for all. His blood contains the cleansing power necessary to wipe away our sin and free us for life! His sacrifice is the ultimate and only sacrifice needed. He became the scapegoat for all of our guilt and shame. When we call upon the name of Jesus, profess Him as the Lord and Savior, confess our sins and ask Him to forgive, our hearts are transformed from the inside out. His power is available twenty-four hours a day, seven days a week. Unlike the Israelites, we don’t have to wait for the annual Day of Atonement. He is here. He is now. Jesus is God, the Son – the One who sets us free!
In the tabernacle, the veil was placed before the Holy of Holies as a protective shield. When Jesus died, the veil in the temple was torn. Now there is no separation between God and man, through the bridge gap of Jesus Christ. He made the way – a direct link for you and for me to experience the Father’s love. We cannot find Him without calling upon the name of Jesus. When we call on His name, our hearts begin to burn with His glory. We become like little lightening bugs, shining into the darkness of the world. His holy fire begins to purify our lives as the Lord of life takes up residence in our heart. Sin is dealt with and destroyed. Our faces radiate His glory, as we are transformed by the Holy Spirit.
If you would like to experience the glory of God for yourself, invite Jesus to come and live within your heart today. He not only forgives your sin when you sincerely repent; our God forgets it forever! Our mistakes are washed away by the power of the blood. Transformation is an amazing thing. I have experienced the redemptive love of Jesus Christ in my life. He lives within my heart, and I am on fire with His love. The old is gone and the new has come. Won’t you step behind the veil and be transformed by Jesus this morning - you will never be the same again!
Grace and peace,
Deb Spaulding
Pray for: transformation to occur from the inside out. When Jesus grabs hold of your heart, your life will change forever! Our Father, through the powerful blood of Jesus Christ, forgives and forgets! Won’t you come to Christ today?
____________________________
© 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, February 12, 2007
Priceless Treasure
Grand Sweep Daily Reading: Leviticus 14, 15; Psalm 36
Psalm 36:5-9 (NIV)
5 You love, O Lord, reaches to the heavens, your faithfulness to the skies. 6 Your righteousness is like the mighty mountains, your justice like the great deep. O Lord, you preserve both man and beast. 7 How priceless is your unfailing love! Both high and low among men find refuge in the shadow of your wings. 8 They feast on the abundance of your house; you give them drink from your river of delights. 9 For with you is the fountain of life; in your light we see light.
Matthew 6:19-21 (NIV)
19 Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. 20 But store up for yourselves treasure in heaven, where moth and rust do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal. 21 For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.
Good morning!
There are some things that are priceless treasure to me. I love joining hands with my brothers and sisters in church when we pray the Lord’s Prayer together. This is truly a moment in worship that reminds me of what heaven will be like – when the children of the Lord gather to praise His holy name forever and ever. I love watching my grandchildren, especially when they say their prayers. Little eyes closed, hands folded in front of their faces; their words filling the air in genuine, heartfelt tones. The sincerity with which they pray tells me why I need to learn to pray like a little child again. Their hope and trust is simple and sincere. Watching my husband deliver a sermon is a priceless treasure. He surrenders himself to the power of the Holy Spirit as he speaks the words that the Lord would have him say. His face lights up with a holy glow and his eyes sparkle with His light as he teaches the truths contained in Scripture. There is such joy in loving Jesus with all your heart, mind and strength. He is my priceless treasure – I place my life in His hands.
The unfailing love of Jesus Christ is my priceless treasure. Last week, I found myself lying in a hospital bed, so weak I could barely lift my arms. It was hard holding my eyes open. Yet, I was surrounded by the comfort of His amazing grace and love. I could feel His strength take over, supporting my spirit even when my body seemed to be failing me. His presence was all I longed for or needed. I cannot imagine living apart from His love. There is no fear, resting in the shadow of His wing. It was the strangest thing – there were moments when I felt frightened, and then, His peace would just blow across my face. It was like a breath of fresh grace, and my fear would simply melt away. I was a little angry with myself for being scared. I’m going to chalk it up to literally being a pint low, and I know it’s a natural human emotion to feel afraid when things seem so out of control. But that is when the Lord does the greatest work in me – when I totally lose control and can do nothing except to depend upon Him completely. Have you ever been in a place where all you could do was cry out to Jesus?
The priceless treasure of sitting in His holy presence, thanking Him for every breath I take, and praising Him for my salvation is a fountain of life to my soul. I long to be in His light – and I know forever with Him is going to be absolutely amazing. Do you know the priceless treasure of Jesus Christ?
Grace and peace,
Deb Spaulding
www.songofdeborah.com
Pray for: the love of Jesus to be your priceless treasure. No matter where you are or what you may be facing today, Jesus Christ is waiting for you to invite Him into your life. His love is all you will ever need. Come and experience the joy of your salvation. Worship and praise the Lord of all. Give your heart to Jesus.
____________________________
© 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: Leviticus 14, 15; Psalm 36
Psalm 36:5-9 (NIV)
5 You love, O Lord, reaches to the heavens, your faithfulness to the skies. 6 Your righteousness is like the mighty mountains, your justice like the great deep. O Lord, you preserve both man and beast. 7 How priceless is your unfailing love! Both high and low among men find refuge in the shadow of your wings. 8 They feast on the abundance of your house; you give them drink from your river of delights. 9 For with you is the fountain of life; in your light we see light.
Matthew 6:19-21 (NIV)
19 Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. 20 But store up for yourselves treasure in heaven, where moth and rust do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal. 21 For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.
Good morning!
There are some things that are priceless treasure to me. I love joining hands with my brothers and sisters in church when we pray the Lord’s Prayer together. This is truly a moment in worship that reminds me of what heaven will be like – when the children of the Lord gather to praise His holy name forever and ever. I love watching my grandchildren, especially when they say their prayers. Little eyes closed, hands folded in front of their faces; their words filling the air in genuine, heartfelt tones. The sincerity with which they pray tells me why I need to learn to pray like a little child again. Their hope and trust is simple and sincere. Watching my husband deliver a sermon is a priceless treasure. He surrenders himself to the power of the Holy Spirit as he speaks the words that the Lord would have him say. His face lights up with a holy glow and his eyes sparkle with His light as he teaches the truths contained in Scripture. There is such joy in loving Jesus with all your heart, mind and strength. He is my priceless treasure – I place my life in His hands.
The unfailing love of Jesus Christ is my priceless treasure. Last week, I found myself lying in a hospital bed, so weak I could barely lift my arms. It was hard holding my eyes open. Yet, I was surrounded by the comfort of His amazing grace and love. I could feel His strength take over, supporting my spirit even when my body seemed to be failing me. His presence was all I longed for or needed. I cannot imagine living apart from His love. There is no fear, resting in the shadow of His wing. It was the strangest thing – there were moments when I felt frightened, and then, His peace would just blow across my face. It was like a breath of fresh grace, and my fear would simply melt away. I was a little angry with myself for being scared. I’m going to chalk it up to literally being a pint low, and I know it’s a natural human emotion to feel afraid when things seem so out of control. But that is when the Lord does the greatest work in me – when I totally lose control and can do nothing except to depend upon Him completely. Have you ever been in a place where all you could do was cry out to Jesus?
The priceless treasure of sitting in His holy presence, thanking Him for every breath I take, and praising Him for my salvation is a fountain of life to my soul. I long to be in His light – and I know forever with Him is going to be absolutely amazing. Do you know the priceless treasure of Jesus Christ?
Grace and peace,
Deb Spaulding
www.songofdeborah.com
Pray for: the love of Jesus to be your priceless treasure. No matter where you are or what you may be facing today, Jesus Christ is waiting for you to invite Him into your life. His love is all you will ever need. Come and experience the joy of your salvation. Worship and praise the Lord of all. Give your heart to Jesus.
____________________________
© 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, February 11, 2007
Living Outside the Camp
Grand Sweep Daily
Leviticus 13:45-46 (NIV)
45 “The person with such an infectious disease must wear torn clothes, let his hair be unkempt, cover the lower part of his face and cry out, ‘Unclean, Unclean!’ 46 As long as he has the infection he remains unclean. He must live alone; he must live outside the camp.”
Psalm 35:27-28 (NIV)
27 May those who delight in my vindication shout for joy and gladness; may they always say, “The Lord be exalted, who delights in the well-being of His servant.” 28 My tongue will speak of your righteousness and of your praises all day long.
Psalm 51:7 (NIV)
7 Cleanse me with hyssop, and I will be clean; wash me, and I will be whiter than snow.
Good morning!
When my children were babies, I purchased a special laundry detergent called Ivory Snow® to wash their diapers, clothing and bedding. This amazing powder detergent, which resembled snowflakes in your hand, had the ability to clean stains, while leaving a baby fresh scent and soft, silky feel to the laundry. I could smell the wonderful fragrance of Ivory Snow® in my linen closet, whenever I would retrieve clean blankets or sheets for the nursery. I also liked the scent of Downy® fabric softener, especially when I hung sheets out on the clothes line to dry. It has been a long time since I’ve hung laundry outside on a clothes line to dry. Do you remember that squeaky clean smell?
At some point during their infancy, my babies suffered from some form of diaper rash. It did not seem to matter whether I used cloth or disposable diapers; the rash seemed unavoidable. Our pediatrician recommended several types of preventative creams and ointments to help clear the rash and make my babies feel better. I felt sorry for them, especially when their skin would become so chapped and raw. If you have ever experienced a skin rash, sunburn, dry skin, acne or eczema, then you might have some affinity for the pain it can bring. It was especially embarrassing to suffer from teenage acne. There were many times I would have preferred to pull a paper bag over my head before leaving home during those wonderful teenage years. Do you know what I mean?
The Lord gave specific instructions in identifying and treating infectious disease. In many instances, those suffering with leprosy, a bacterial skin infection that could cause loss of feeling in extremities and permanent paralysis, were forced to live outside the camp. Shunned by their family and friends, a leper was required to publicly announce that they were unclean, so that others could be protected from this malady. To be isolated, rejected, and alone in a time of illness and suffering must be the worst feeling ever. Have you experienced rejection at a time when you really needed someone to reach out and care for you?
There is an infectious disease that permeates humanity, even today. It causes great pain and loss of feeling to those who suffer from it. If you examine the sufferer, you will find physical, emotional and spiritual evidence of the disease. Like a rampant rash, it can eat away at your heart and soul. This disease is known as sin. Humanity struggles with its imperfection. While some try to hide their disease behind a perfectly toned body, make-up rituals, cosmetic surgeries, and the perfect wardrobe, sin is something that cannot be hidden. It raises its nasty head at the most inopportune time. Some people run from it. They shun the sinner like a leper; refusing to extend love and mercy for fear that they might catch the dreaded disease. Others point their fingers and find their self-worth in humiliating and highlighting the suffering of another. It keeps the spotlight from shining on their sin, that will eventually expose itself in due time. Where can the imperfect find help? Who can relieve their pain, heal their scars, and give them a chance to live free from this horrible, dreaded disease?
There is a cure to the disease of sin. His name is Jesus and He came to set the sinner free, to heal the sick, and save the lost. He changes lives every day. I am living proof! Jesus took my sin, and the scars that I wore; He cleansed my life and made me whole. It is His blood that offers me admission into the camp. I no longer live outside the perimeter, crying, Unclean!
If you are struggling with the disease of sin today, there is hope! There is a cure for you. He will change your life. Cry out to Jesus, ask Him to heal you. He can take the ugliest sin and wash it away with His cleansing blood. Would you like to come inside the tent today? Come to church and experience the amazing, healing love of Jesus Christ.
Grace and peace,
Deb Spaulding
Pray for: a cure-all! Jesus Christ is the way, the truth and the life you’ve always longed for. He will wash you, heal you, and free you to live in wholeness. He waits for you to come. Will you come to the Lord today?
____________________________
© 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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