Weathering the storms of life

Grand Sweep Daily Reading: Acts 27, 28; Proverbs 3

Proverbs 3:5-6 (NIV)

5 Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; 6 in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make your paths straight.

Acts 27:9 (NIV)

9 Much time had been lost, and sailing had already become dangerous because by now it was after the Fast [the day of Atonement.]

Good morning!

Do you ever feel like you are out there all alone, trying to swim upstream against a strong under current? I admit I have moments of spiritual despair. Yet, I found great encouragement and support this past weekend at the Presence Based Church seminars led by Dr. Terry Teykl. He encourages worship based prayer for every Christian and to seek God’s holy presence in all they do. Praying God’s Word, the Holy Scripture, is emphasized at the Teykl seminars. Everything begins and ends with prayer. Dr. Teykl says that we are to pray the prayers the Lord would have us pray. What are you praying for today?

My understanding is so very limited. No matter how much time I spend reading, studying and writing, I lack the wisdom I long for. King Solomon prayed to the Lord for wisdom. Some say He was the wisest man that ever lived. My limited vision keeps me from seeing the bigger picture. I struggle to gain not just wisdom, but His wisdom. How I long to see things the way Christ sees them. Oh, to have the perfect vision of our Lord. Maybe you are praying for wisdom today.

Our journey is never safe or easy. We are risk takers, from the moment we breathe our very first breath, until we die and rest in the everlasting arms. The Apostle Paul knew what it was like to travel a treacherous path. He, along with some other prisoners, boarded a ship that was sail along the coast of Asia. It was in the fall of the year, when weather patterns were rapidly changing. Ships in early days were not built with the sophisticated compass and tracking systems we now have at our disposal. Captains relied upon the stars to navigate their boats in the water. Overcast weather made travel very, very dangerous, even impossible at times. The Day of Atonement had come and gone. Colder weather, shorter days and cloudy nights caused a great panic on the ship in which Paul was sailing. Tossed about in the wind and waves, and caught in what is known as a “northeaster,” everyone aboard gave up on any hope of being saved. Have you ever felt like giving up on God’s promise of salvation? Is your life being tossed about by the difficulties and problems you face? Where can one sail to seek safe harbor in the storms of life?

King Solomon understood that human understanding is limited. Without the Lord’s leading, we will all be lost to the relentless storms of life. He said, “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; 6 in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make your paths straight.” We need to walk a straight path every day, as we seek His holy face in worship and praise. Only God can take the hairpin curves of our journey and straighten them out once and for all.

What does it take to trust the Lord with all your heart and not dwell upon the things we see in the physical realm?

When the seminar ended Sunday evening, Pastor Teykl gave me a hug goodbye and whispered in my ear, “You are not alone.” In that simple sentence, I could hear the voice of Christ filling me with reassurance and hope. We are not alone! We have God’s power and wisdom and His amazing strength to weather the storms in our lives and move forward to the task He has called us to. We can share the Gospel with others! We don’t have to rely upon our own abilities. The storms will always rage around us. We must choose whether to focus on the tidal wave we see in the physical realm or on the One who can calm the raging storm with one Word.

I’m fixing my eyes on Jesus today. Won’t you join me? If we hold hands, we can do this together.

Grace and peace,

Deb Spaulding

Faith UMC - St. Charles, MO

www.songofdeborah.com

Pray for: greater faith, to see beyond the storms of life and realize there is abundant and everlasting life in the power and presence of Almighty God. Won’t you worship and praise Him 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.

There is freedom in chains

Grand Sweep Daily Reading: Acts 25, 26; Proverbs 2

Proverbs 2:1-5 (NIV)

1 My son, if you accept my words and store up my commands within you, 2 turning your ear to wisdom and applying your heart to understanding, 3 and if you call out for insight and cry aloud for understanding, 4 and if you look for it as for silver and search for it as for hidden treasure, 5 then you will understand the fear of the Lord and find the knowledge of God.

Acts 26:29, 32 (NIV)

29 Paul replied, “Short time or long – I pray God that not only you but all who are listening to me today may become what I am, except for these chains.”

32 Agrippa said to Festus, “This man could have been set free if he had not appealed to Caesar.”

Good morning!

I love to read about Paul and the amazing ministry Jesus called him to fulfill. He spent a good deal of his time behind bars, in chains, bleeding from beatings and being stoned in the streets. His battle scars were deep, and yet, it never seemed to stop him from speaking words of salvation. In fact, Paul chose to stay in chains because he knew his testimony would have a profound impact on the rulers and prisoners alike. Even in the chains that held Paul’s body captive, his soul was truly free!

Have you ever thought that maybe the burden you carry is actually an opportunity for ministry? Maybe you find yourself today in a dead-end job, totally discouraged and frustrated with your co-workers, or your supervisors. Maybe you deal with hateful people over the telephone each day, so much so, it makes you not want to pick up the receiver and answer. Maybe you are sitting in a classroom today, frustrated with the teacher who seems to be verbally attacking you in front of the entire class, or you are embarrassed by the students who continually make fun of you, whispering behind your back. Even pastors and those who work in the life of the church can run headlong into personality conflicts. We don’t think alike and we certainly don’t act the same. Still, there are some who believe a pastor’s gift mix should be all things to all people, and when their pastor doesn’t perform the way they think he or she should, they begin to carry resentment, maybe even bitterness. Some leave the church because they can’t stand to listen to the one preaching in the pulpit. Have you ever wondered whether God might be calling you to leave those chains on just a little bit longer, so that you might make a lasting difference in the heart of someone who is hurting you? Are you willing to return love for hate? Do you care more about the soul of that testy neighbor than personal payback? How much more could God use you in an adverse situation? Will you let Him use you?

When Paul was accused of breaking Jewish laws in court, Paul appealed his case to a higher authority. He appealed to Caesar. Standing before King Agrippa, Paul retold his life’s story, explaining how Jesus himself had appeared to him as he rode toward Damascus. Paul said, “I stand here on trial on account of my hope” (Acts 26:6). What was Paul’s hope? Was he hoping to be released? I believe Paul’s hope was to share the Good News of salvation with all the world, and that included the Roman government. He could do more living in his chains, than living free. Everyone’s eyes were on him as he spoke. Every ear was opened, listening intently to the prisoner’s words. Would you be willing to remain in chains if it meant someone might find Christ in the middle of your imprisonment?

There is freedom in the chains we carry. There is hope for the burdens we bear. If you are struggling today with an illness, a family crisis, a job that is simply difficult to do each day, take a minute to look beyond the pain and see the opportunity for servant leadership. You can make a difference right now, right where you are. Let the living Christ shine through you, not only in the things you say, but the things you do.

May God give your courage to tell your story to everyone you know. Share it with love. Remember who it is you are serving, and ask God to help you see others the way He sees them. Not only will you find His peace that passes all understanding, but you may leave an eternal mark in the life of another lost soul.

Jesus Christ is the Lord of my shame. He carried it all to the cross to save me from myself. And when I grow up, I want to be more like Him. This is my humble prayer today.

Grace and peace,

Deb Spaulding

Faith UMC - St. Charles, MO

www.songofdeborah.com

Pray for: courage to wear your chains well. His freedom exists, even in the most difficult of situations. Trust Christ completely to lead you today. Allow Christ to take your weakness and make you strong through it. He will do it, if you just ask Him. Ask Him to help you now.

___________________________

© 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.

It's all Greek to me

Grand Sweep Daily Reading: Acts 22, 23, 24

Acts 21:37-22:1 (NIV)

37 As the soldiers were about to take Paul into the barracks, he asked the commander, “May I say something to you?” “Do you speak Greek?” he replied. 38 “Aren’t you the Egyptian who started a revolt and led four thousand terrorists out into the desert some time ago?” 39 Paul answered, “I am a Jew, from Tarsus in Cilicia, a citizen of no ordinary city. Please let me speak to the people.” 40 Having received the commander’s permission, Paul stood on the steps and motioned to the crowd. When they were all silent, he said to them in Aramaic: 1 “Brothers and fathers, listen now to my defense.” 2 When they heard him speak to them in Aramaic, they became very quiet.

Good morning!

Sometimes I wonder if I’m speaking the right language. Have you ever tried to say something important, but all that comes out of your mouth is Greek? Unfortunately, I’ve had this experience on numerous occasions and it can be very, very frustrating. Have you ever tried to explain and reason with a stubborn, strong-willed child, and they look at you with this crazy, glazed over stare, like you are speaking in tongues? What happens to our communicative skills when we have something important to say, but it feels like we’re preaching into thin air?

Yesterday, as I sat in the Terry Teykl prayer seminar at Woods Chapel Church in Lees Summit, Missouri, I listened intently as the pastor shared a personal story about a clergy friend who had traveled to Mexico to preach the Gospel. He did not speak their language, and had engaged the services of an interpreter to help him deliver the message in Spanish. Due to some miscommunication, the interpreter did not show up. When it came time for the pastor to deliver the Word, he prayed and asked the Lord for divine intervention. As the pastor began to speak, the words came out of him in Spanish! Those who came to hear understood the message, and many gave their hearts to the Lord that day. This pastor had no formal training in Spanish. He knew the Lord had given him the right word, in the right language, at just the right moment, and because He trusted God completely on the delivery, the people heard and responded.

What kind of faith does it take to trust God completely? I took a road trip this weekend. The prayer conference is important to me, because I knew Pastor Teykl had been given an important message to deliver, as he continually responds to God’s call to “build the church in prayer.” Sunday morning, as my friend Laura Beth and I were having breakfast, we saw Pastor Teykl emerge from his room for a cup of coffee. I had seen this road weary look before. I’ve seen it on my husband’s face many times. Honestly, the pastor looked like he had been hit by a truck. He was dog tired. Pastor Teykl travels every week, sharing and teaching people how to connect with God in prayer. It is his commission, his passion, and his purpose for living. When we sit in church on Sunday mornings and hear a sermon, we may not see the frailty of the person behind the pulpit. They are human beings, just like you and I. They get tired, road weary, and yet, they go. Why? Why would anyone do this? I’ve seen pastors push through times of extreme fatigue, sacrifice their personal time and money, just to spend their lives speaking God’s Word. I imagine Pastor Teykl will sit down on his back porch this morning, with a cup of coffee in his hand, and wonder whether anyone really heard what he was saying. But the love of God grabs us by the heart and pulls us forward in faith. Just like the Apostle Paul, it is that same love that sends people like Pastor Teykl out into the world to teach and preach. It is prompting of the Holy Spirit that helps pastors and teachers get out of bed at 3am to pray and praise God. Has God called you to sacrifice your life to reach people with the Good News of the Gospel of Jesus Christ?

The Apostle Paul was an amazing man, for a lot of reasons. But I admire him most for his tenacity to go and preach, even when he knew many would not hear or understand. It takes great faith to speak God’s Word every day, recognizing that it will be rejected by some, laughed at by others, and yet, someone out there will hear and receive the message of salvation by faith. And that one person makes it all worth while. Paul never quit. He continued to go and speak, and used every resource at his disposal to share Jesus Christ with the world.

Today, I am thanking the Lord for all pastors and teachers who are called to preach and who willingly and faithfully serve Christ each day. There are times when you may feel discouraged, and extraordinarily tired. Please don’t give up on all of us. You are speaking our language, and we will hear and understand you through the power and presence of the Holy Spirit working in and through you. Thank you for serving the Lord.

Grace and peace,

Deb Spaulding

Faith UMC - St. Charles, MO

www.songofdeborah.com

Pray for: pastors and teachers and leaders in your church. They need a little affirmation every once in a while, just to know they are being heard and understood.

___________________________

© 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.

The light of His presence

Grand Sweep Daily Reading: Acts 19, 20, 21

Acts 20:19-21 (NIV)

19 [Paul said,] “I served the Lord with great humility and with tears, although I was severely tested by the plots of the Jews. 20 You know that I have not hesitated to preach anything that would be helpful to you but have taught you publicly and from house to house. 21 I have declared to both Jews and Greeks that they must turn to God in repentance and have faith in our Lord Jesus.

Good morning!

And what a beautiful morning it is! I’ve been up for awhile now, watching the sunlight move across the eastern sky. There is nothing more wondrous than seeing the sun rise up at the break of day, dispelling the darkness of night, reminding all God’s children that we walk in the light.

I listened intently yesterday to Pastor Terry Teykl teach on what it means to be a Presence Based Church. We long to welcome and invite the presence and power of Almighty God to fall upon the hearts of all who gather in worship to praise His holy name. How I long to be a presence-based church in my own heart, a space where Jesus Christ can live and reign inside of me. The single most important thing I do every morning is to pray for His presence to me up and send me out, so that I may tell others the Good News of the Gospel of Jesus Christ. How I long to be more like Christ, moving in tiny increments, just a little closer to Him each day. There is nothing more precious than sharing abundant life in Christ with the body of believers. We are everywhere, and when we get together to praise and glorify the risen Lord, His awesome presence becomes our greatest gift! What a present it is to be in an intimate, personal relationship with the Savior of the world.

This was Paul’s soul desire. As he prepared to leave Ephesus, Paul spoke to the saints in the new baby church. He spoke from his heart’s desire. He chose to preach and teach the importance of turning to God with repentant hearts, while lifting up the name of Jesus and His salvation message, not just to Jews, but to Greeks, and the whole world. When Christ got Paul’s attention on the road to Damascus, he not only received a heavenly name change, but a whole new way of seeing life. His eyes, once blinded, were now clear. His vision had improved. The Son had risen and taken full reign in Paul’s life. He was walking in the light of God’s amazing grace and love.

Can you imagine what would happen if faithful Christians around the world linked hands and hearts, with one desire only – to long for the presence of Christ to equip every member of the body to share the Gospel message around the world? What would happen to the church of Jesus Christ if every believer stopped to pray each day for the presence of God to become the presence in which they live and breathe? Inviting God’s presence into the life of my church begins with inviting God to be present in my heart each and every day.

Like the beautiful sunrise outside this morning, the prayers of all the saints are rising up right now. Hearts and hands are joined together, crying out to God for His mercy. We humble ourselves, asking for unmerited forgiveness, confessing our sins, while longing for His life to become our life. Is there any greater joy than knowing the way, the truth, and the life?

He is here right now. If you have never experienced the wonder of forgiveness and His peace that passes all understanding, then this moment has been lovingly created just for you. Living in His presence day by day, is an amazing gift from God. He is waiting for you to receive Him, invite Him into your heart, into your home, and into the life of your church. We don’t have to wait until we get to heaven to see Jesus. He is here. Can you sense His holy presence surrounding you today?

Today, we remember and honor the saints that have gone on before us. Our loved ones remind us of the hope we have in Christ, when we reach the place where there will never be darkness again, our tears will be dried forever, and the love we have in our hearts will be magnified exponentially. Living in His holy presence now prepares us for the joys of living with Christ forevermore. Can you hear the saints singing?

May His holy presence fall upon you today, as you seek to love Jesus Christ more and more each day. If you are longing for His presence and want to learn more, come and hear Pastor Teykl teach this afternoon at Woods Chapel United Methodist Church in Lees Summit, Missouri. The seminar begins at 2:30pm and we have an extra seat waiting just for you.

Grace and peace,

Deb Spaulding
www.songofdeborah.com

Pray for: His presence to become the light you walk in every day. Praise the Lord with all your heart, and invite Him to become the light of your life. Christ’s presence will fall when He is welcomed in love.

_______________________________________
© 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.

Sometimes it takes an earthquake

Grand Sweep Daily Reading: Acts 16, 17, 18

Acts 16:25-29 (NIV)

25 About midnight, Paul and Silas were praying and singing hymns to God, and the other prisoners were listening to them. 26 Suddenly there was such a violent earthquake that the foundation of the prison was shaken. At once all the prison doors flew open and everybody’s chains came loose. 27 The jailer woke up, and when he saw the prison doors open, he drew his sword and was about to kill himself because he thought the prisoners had escaped. 28 But Paul shouted, “Don’t harm yourself! We are all here!” 29 The jailer called for lights, rushed in and fell trembling before Paul and Silas. He then brought them out and asked, “Sirs, what must I do to be saved?”

Good morning!

There are moments when God has to send an earthquake to get my full attention. Do you ever struggle to just trust and obey Him? I know, it’s probably just me. We often get in the way of God’s good plan for our lives, and I am definitely my own worst enemy. I have this annoying habit of closing my ears to the things that I really don’t want to hear, especially when it comes to hearing and understanding the uncompromised truth of God. It’s kind of like needing to be hit over the hit with a 2 by 4. Sometimes, the Lord has to work overtime to move past my selective hearing skills just to get my undivided attention!

Paul and Silas had been severely beaten that day. Even in their physical suffering, they chose to worship and honor the Lord they love. The prisoners were listening to their every word, and it was a teachable moment of faith. Do you know of someone who teaches faith, even in the midst of personal suffering? Have you ever watched someone emulate Christ’s love, in spite of their physical limitations? There are many Christians who have experienced the powerful love of Jesus Christ in such a profound way, they cannot help but serve and love others, and choose to do so, especially in times of personal suffering and pain. Many have gone on before us, and their life examples will be celebrated in our churches around the world this weekend. We gather to praise the Lord for the saints who have already won their race and are now in the eternal presence of Almighty God. A precious and dear pastor won his race yesterday and is now experiencing the fullness of everlasting life in Christ. I can only imagine his immense joy. It is the hope of glory all Christians long for and delight in. Throughout his life, this pastor led many people to accept Jesus Christ as their personal Lord and Savior, and he touched countless hearts as he fought a four year battle with cancer. I am so very grateful to God for the life of Pastor Jim. He emulated the lives of Paul and Silas in his pastoral ministry. I am very thankful for his personal witness and living testimony of faith.

When the guard realized that the prison door had been opened, he thought his life was over. But God had other plans for the one who held the prison key in his hand, yet was truly the captive one. He saw the risen Christ through the lives of Paul and Silas. They chose not to try to escape their prison walls, even as they fell to the ground and the doors were opened. Paul and Silas were free in spirit, and they did not let their physical circumstances hold them back from preaching the Good News to every ear who would hear. Their songs got the guard’s attention. His hearing was finally healed, as he asked the question, “Sirs, what must I do to be saved?”

What will it take for you to hear and respond to the Gospel message? Is the foundation of your life breaking apart this morning? Are your walls caving in around you? Can you hear the songs of the saints rising up above their pain and suffering? Reach out and take hold of the hand of Christ. He can change your life right now if you will just invite Him to come into your heart today.

Grace and peace,

Deb Spaulding

Faith UMC - St. Charles, MO

www.songofdeborah.com

Pray for: an earthquake, if that’s what it takes to get your undivided attention. Be thankful for the godly lives of those who sing hymns of praise in times of suffering and pain. We can learn a lot from those who have gone on before us by faith. Can you hear Him calling you now?

___________________________

© 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.

Star gazer

Grand Sweep Daily Reading: Acts 13, 14, 15; Proverbs 1

Proverbs 1:7 (NIV)

7 The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge, but fools despise wisdom and discipline.

Acts 13:46-49 (NIV)

46 Then Paul and Barnabas answered them boldly: “We had to speak the Word of God to you first. Since you reject it and do not consider yourselves worthy of eternal life, we now turn to the Gentiles. 47 For this is what the Lord has commanded us: ‘I have made you a light for the Gentiles, that you may bring salvation to the ends of the earth.’” 48 When the Gentiles heard this, they were glad and honored the Word of the Lord; and all who were appointed for eternal life believed. 49 The Word of the Lord spread throughout the whole region.

Good morning!

Last night, I witnessed an amazing phenomenon with my very own eyes. Looking through the lens of a large telescope, I was able to see Comet Holmes for myself. On October 24^th, this comet brightened dramatically, by almost a million times, overnight. It quickly became the focus of astronomers worldwide. Never before has a comet appeared quite like this one. I observed the nucleus of the comet to be perfectly round, surrounded by a colorful, circular halo. The comet was bright and clear, with no visible tail. As I watched in absolute awe, Holmes’ comet appeared to be growing larger as time passed on. My New Testament professor said that a dramatic change within the comet’s size and structure might indicate a prelude to some sort of cataclysmic event. I spent last night in absolute wonder, gazing up at the clear night sky, while watching God’s amazing light show unfold.

Are you a star gazer?

Paul, Barnabas and John Mark traveled into the higher elevations of Pisidia Antioch, in Galatia, to take the Gospel message to the Jews. When they rejected their teaching, Paul preached to the Gentiles, as the Lord had instructed him to do. The stars were out in full force, and the Word of God was falling upon hungry hearts, longing to know the God who not only loves them, but saves.

Knowledge begins with a healthy fear of the Lord. We learn from our mistakes and misperceptions. For instance, when a young toddler reaches out and touches a hot stove, burning their inquisitive fingertips, they will remember the pain and pay closer attention to a loving parent who tells them, “Don’t touch!” When we experience for ourselves the struggles that come from despising wisdom and discipline, we learn, in a very real sense, what it means to gain knowledge in the fear of the Lord. The Jews refused to open their hearts to God’s Word. With blinders securely fastened about their eyes, they railed at Paul and his message of redemption. Yet, when Paul and Barnabas and John Mark offered the salvation message to the Gentiles, they jumped at the chance to experience the living Christ in their lives. It was as if an incredible phenomenon was occurring in the hearts of people everywhere. Like an exploding comet in the sky, God’s message was being transmitted and received throughout the world.

What is it like to experience the risen Christ up close and personal? Have you seen Him with your very own eyes?

God’s grace and forgiveness is extended to all people who will call upon the name of Jesus in faith and in love and raise Him high as Lord of all. The stars are out tonight, and God is seeking the hearts of all who will look up and behold His amazing, wondrous love. Are you longing to know Him even more? Do you seek to gain greater understanding of who Jesus is and what He has done for you?

Come outside and take a long look into the beautiful sky above. The hand of the Lord is upon us all. His Word is exploding around the world as we share the Gospel message with all who will hear. Will you open your heart to His Word today? Be a star gazer. Come outside and take in the amazing handiwork of the Lord!

Grace and peace,

Deb Spaulding

Faith UMC - St. Charles, MO

www.songofdeborah.com

Pray for: the amazing, phenomenal work of Jesus Christ, to save your soul, and bring you into intimate relationship with the creator of the world. God is calling to you today. Will you take time to look up and see the stars bursting overhead?

___________________________

© 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.

When the chains fall off

Grand Sweep Daily Reading: Acts 11, 12; Psalm 150

Acts 12:6-11 (NIV)

6 The night before Herod was to bring him to trial, Peter was sleeping between two soldiers, bound with two chains, and sentries stood guard at the entrance. 7 Suddenly, an angel of the Lord appeared and a light shone in the cell. He struck Peter on the side and woke him up. “Quick, get up!” he said, and the chains fell off Peter’s wrists. 8 Then the angel said to him, “Put on your clothes and sandals.” And Peter did so. “Wrap your cloak around you and follow me,” the angel told him. 9 Peter followed him out of the prison, but he had no idea that what the angel was doing was really happening; he thought he was seeing a vision. 10 They passed the first and second guards and came to the iron gate leading to the city. It opened for them by itself, and they went through it. When they had walked the length of one street, suddenly the angel left him. 11 Then Peter came to himself and said, “Now I know without a doubt that the Lord sent his angel and rescued me from Herod’s clutches and from everything the Jewish people were anticipating.”

Good morning!

I love to read the amazing miracles in the book of Acts. King Herod couldn’t keep the Gospel message from spreading like wildfire. No matter who he tortured, imprisoned, or even sentenced to death, it did not stop the living, breathing Word of God. Jesus Christ was alive and well in the hearts and souls of His apostles. Even Peter found himself in awe of God’s power on the night the chains fell off his wrists.

At first, Peter thought he must be dreaming, or maybe he was seeing a vision. But when the angel appeared out of nowhere and his chains fell off, Peter walked out of that prison unharmed. The guards who were sleeping on the job, lost their lives because they could not adequately account for Peter’s mysterious and unexplained vanishing act. Only the Lord of all could do this. And Peter knew it.

What does it feel like to have the chains that keep us back suddenly fall off? If you have ever struggled with some secret sin, then maybe you understand what a miracle it is to finally be free. People struggle with terrifying addictions to caffeine, cigarettes, alcohol, prescription medications, street drugs, sex, pornography, even with gender identity. No matter how hard they try to escape, the chains of sin continue to tighten around them, keeping hearts from completely accepting the person that God created them to be. Many have tried to escape the prisons they find themselves trapped in. They cut themselves, or they eat for comfort, or sometimes stop eating all together, in an effort to cleanse their bodies and make the pain go away. They take pills and drink to escape, even for a time, the reality of their life. Do you know what it is like to feel so very unloved, dissatisfied and unhappy with yourself that you would literally change your outward appearance drastically just to gain some sort of inner peace? Can a sex change truly change the condition of a hurting heart?

Peter knew Jesus in a real and personal way. He walked with him and talked with him throughout his three year formal ministry. Peter watched Jesus suffer and die, and on the third day, Peter believed in the power of The Resurrection and The Life. He knew that God’s authority was not limited to the chains on his wrists. He had conquered death and Hell and now is risen! Jesus lives, and there was no prison wall that could hold the Good News of the Gospel back. Peter trusted Christ enough to know that no matter what obstacle he faced, God has the power to handle it. What kind of faith does it take to believe that God not only understands our pain and suffering, but that He has the power to free us from the chains we bear? Do you have the faith of Peter?

Today is All Saints Day. I would encourage you to take the things that keep you from wholeness and give them to the Lord who sees you, knows you, and who loves you. God created you with a passion and purpose for life. He can take the chains of sin and remove them once and for all. Ask Him for greater faith. You can experience new life today like you’ve never had it before. Won’t you trust God enough to let Him be Lord of your life?

Grace and peace,

Deb Spaulding

Faith UMC - St. Charles, MO

www.songofdeborah.com

Pray for: greater faith! What we cannot do for ourselves, God can do in and through us. Confess your sins and human frailties to the Lord. He understands. He has been here. And Jesus offers new life today to all who will turn to Him for hope and help. The chains will fall off when the Lord Jesus Christ removes them once and for 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.

I need a little help from above

Grand Sweep Daily Reading: Acts 8, 9, 10

Acts 8:18-25 (NIV)

18 When Simon saw that the Spirit was given at the laying on of the apostles’ hands, he offered them money 19 and said, “Give me also this ability so that everyone on whom I lay my hands may receive the Holy Spirit.” 20 Peter answered, “May your money perish with you, because you thought you could buy the Gift of God with money.” 21 You have no part or share in this ministry, because your heart is not right before God. 22 Repent of this wickedness and pray to the Lord. Perhaps He will forgive you for having such a thought in your heart. 23 For I see that you are full of bitterness and captive to sin.” 24 Then Simon answered, “Pray to the Lord for me so that nothing you have said may happen to me.” 25 When they had testified and proclaimed the Word of the Lord, Peter and John returned to Jerusalem, preaching the Gospel in many Samaritan villages.

James 5:16 (NIV)

Therefore confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous man is powerful and effective.

Good morning!

It’s hard to be humble when you are spewing inside. Yesterday was a long day. I spent a good part of my work day sitting in a training session. When I arrived back to my office late in the day, I had eight hours of work waiting for me and only a couple of hours with which to accomplish it. I was pulled to help someone else complete another assignment, and I was not at all happy about it. Support staff had left for the day. There was no one else available to help out. I could feel the steam rising up in my spirit. I really wanted to have a servant’s heart, but my attitude was getting in the way. There are moments when my heart is simply not right with God, and I find myself in desperate need of the Holy Spirit power to see me through.

There is amazing joy in His Holy Spirit power! It’s the kind of power that tames the tongue, silences inappropriate thoughts floating around inside one’s head, and fills a heart full to overflowing with compassion and love for others. Holy Spirit power cannot be purchased with money. You cannot have the Holy Spirit power in your life until God gives it to you. When we receive the power of the Holy Spirit, we must choose whether to employ the gift He gives, especially when we are harboring anger and resentment in our hearts. It is not enough to say we care. His truth will reveal itself in love.

Simon was a desperate man. He practiced sorcery by working wonders and relying on astrology to guide his life. People were impressed with the magic of this man, and marveled at his counterfeit gifts. Only the Holy Spirit power could reveal the bitterness in Simon’s heart. He was held captive by the sins controlling his life. The Apostle Peter recognized the problem, through the power of the Holy Spirit. He confronted Simon with the truth. Sometimes, the truth hurts. No matter how we spin it, when God reveals our true character and we see ourselves for who we really are, there is nothing we can do except fall on our knees, repent, and seek God’s grace and forgiveness. We pray for each other and our “unhappy” attitudes. This is exactly what Simon did. He asked Peter and John to pray for him, that he would be spared the pain of not knowing the Lord.

Every morning, I seek the help of His Holy Spirit to transform my heart, removing “my” will and “my way” and replacing it with “His will” and “His way.” I cannot buy this kind of power with money. I cannot barter with the Lord for Holy Spirit power. There is only one way to receive this gift of grace, and it comes in sincere repentance through prayer. I must be willing to admit my faults to the Lord, not just in corporate prayer during Sunday worship, but in daily, holy conversation with the Lord. I need to confess my sin and ask God for His forgiveness and grace. As I pray for others, He sends His sweet Holy Spirit to cover and comfort me, again and again. The Spirit convicts my heart when I am wrong. Last night, my attitude was all wrong. That restless, uncomfortable feeling that stayed in the pit of my stomach was prayed away this morning by Holy Spirit power. I can begin a brand new day, knowing I don’t have to face the world all by myself.

Do you long for your prayers to be powerful and effective? Our hearts must first be healed. There is only One who can wash away our sin and heal us with His amazing love. If you look in the mirror this morning and find you resemble Simon the sorcerer, there is hope for you! It is time to pray – repent and seek God’s forgiveness and grace. If you ask Him, He will give you the Holy Ghost power and in that power, you will overcome.

Are you ready to receive an attitude adjustment?

Grace and peace,

Deb Spaulding

Faith UMC - St. Charles, MO

www.songofdeborah.com

Pray for: the truth to set you free! It’s time to have a holy conversation with the Lord. Repent. Ask God to forgive and heal you right now. Ask Him for His Holy Spirit power. I believe an attitude adjustment is on the way!

___________________________

© 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.

A trail of crumbs

Grand Sweep Daily Reading: Acts 6, 7; Psalm 149

Acts 6:1-4; 7 (NIV)

1 In those days when the number of disciples was increasing, the Grecian Jews among them complained against the Hebraic Jews because their widows were being overlooked in the daily distribution of food. 2 So the Twelve gathered all the disciples together and said, “It would not be right to neglect the ministry of the Word of God in order to wait on tables. 3 Brothers, choose seven men from among you who are known to be full of the Spirit and wisdom. We will turn this responsibility over to them 4 and will give our attention to prayer and the ministry of the Word.”

7 So the Word of God spread. The number of disciples in Jerusalem increased rapidly, and a large number of priests became obedient to the faith.

Good morning!

I stood at the front of the church Sunday morning, holding the cup of life in my hands and offering it to the people of Faith, whom I love. I couldn’t help but notice the trail of bread crumbs falling on the floor in front of my feet. The communion bread was extraordinarily fresh. Every time a piece of bread was torn from the loaf, crumbs would begin to fall to the floor. A trail of crumbs formed at the front of the sanctuary leading to the kneeling cushions in front of the altar, where grateful ones stopped to pray and offer their lives to the Lord.

Praise God for the trail of crumbs that feeds and leads us back to His living Word. Every tiny gift is like a crumb of grace, marking the path as we travel toward home. I marveled at the grace and hospitality of our conference host, Christ United Methodist Church, in Memphis, Tennessee. Cindy and I had traveled there last weekend to attend a conference for General and Jurisdictional delegates and all United Methodists, committed to the renewal and unity of the church. There couldn’t have been a more perfect place to host this meeting. No matter where you look at Christ Church, you cannot help but notice the cross of Christ. It is prevalent on every door of the facility. The door handles were fashioned into crosses. Glass cross inserts were placed in the center of every wooden door. Each window pane bore a unique cross-shaped design. Even the window trimmings, including the shades, displayed the emblem of salvation. It is truly the focal point in the worship center and sanctuary. Whenever I see the cross of Christ, I am reminded of His trail of blood, shed for you and for me. I have no doubt the message of the cross is alive and well at Christ United Methodist Church.

The disciples recognized the importance of caring for the hungry in their community. There were growing concerns about the widows, who were being overlooked in the daily distribution of food. Seven men, full of the Holy Spirit and wisdom, were selected to offer daily food to the poor and help meet the needs of those in their community. As the Word was proclaimed and people were being fed, the Good News of Jesus Christ spread rapidly throughout the region and many hearts were converted. The living Word spreads quickly, like the incoming tide of the ocean at dusk. A virtual ripple effect, the Gospel washes over us, not only through preaching and teaching, but through random acts of kindness and charity. The food we offer to the hungry is like a trail of life-giving crumbs, leading hearts back to the Lord. No random act of kindness will ever go unnoticed, when it is offered as an act of faith in Christ. God can use every humble heart to leave a trail of grace, pointing the way toward home.

Last weekend, we were fed the living, breathing Word of God. We heard it in the spoken words of our clergy and laity. We saw it in the faces of the ushers, greeters, worship team, and staff. Needs were met with grace and in love. Every recipient of the bread and cup carries a trail of crumbs that can lead another person to the Lord. Is there a trail of grace forming behind your footsteps?

Last Friday morning, an unusual sight caught my eye. It was a chilly, fall day, and I was anxious to find a cup of hot coffee to drink. At the continental breakfast offered in the lobby of our hotel, I was searching for the coffee pot, when Cindy pointed out the tap fixtures on the wall. I’d never seen an unlimited supply of coffee free flow out of a spigot on the wall! That coffee tasted pretty good; kind of like the sweet taste of salvation received through Jesus Christ alone.

You don’t have to look far to find a trail of crumbs today. Take some time this morning and ask yourself these questions: Are you being fed? If so, are you offering life-giving food to those who surround you? Are you leaving a trail of crumbs wherever you go? Will people experience the living Word of Christ through your random acts of kindness?

This is a great day to leave a trail. Someone is hungry. Someone is searching for Truth. Someone needs the cross of Christ today. Take your God-given gift mix and offer it up to the Lord in faith. What will He do through you?

Grace and peace,

Deb Spaulding

Faith UMC - St. Charles, MO

www.songofdeborah.com

Pray for: a trail of crumbs! You don’t have to look far to follow faith. Offer your life, your gifts, and your whole heart to the Lord Jesus Christ. He will catch you up the unlimited supply in His amazing grace, and can use every humble heart to spread His Word today. Be a trail blazer, in Jesus 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.

Are your lips burning?

Grand Sweep Daily Reading: Acts 1, 2, 3

Acts 2:42-44 (NIV)

42 They devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching and to the fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer. 43 Everyone was filled with awe, and many wonders and miraculous signs were done by the apostles. 44 All the believers were together and had everything in common.

Good morning!

It was a long and rainy ride to Memphis, Tennessee last Thursday. Cindy and I enjoyed each other’s company as we sipped on fountain soda and listened intently to teaching tapes as we drove along Interstate 55. We knew we were headed toward an amazing event, and we were anxious to get there. Have you ever pondered what might be awaiting you just around the corner?

We pulled into our hotel just before dark. Our family used to travel through Memphis regularly to visit my grandparents, when they lived in Mississippi. It had been years since I had spent any time tooling around town, and Memphis has changed quite a bit since I was a child. In the dark and pouring rain, we managed to find Christ United Methodist Church, our seminar location, and then drive on to the college campus of Memphis University. We were looking for a meeting room on a packed campus, in the middle of session, in the pouring rain. Totally unfamiliar with the college, we needed the Lord’s compass to guide us. It’s a good thing we got there early, because we spent an hour wandering from building to building. It was a good night to take a walk in the rain.

We had come to join hearts and hands with brothers and sisters around the world who are members of the Confessing Movement of the United Methodist Church, and to spend the evening in worship and prayer, as we prepare ourselves for our denomination’s upcoming 2008 General Conference. The prayer service was a profound and holy moment. We sat together in a large upper room. I joined hands with people I had never personally met, but knew of through their writing and work within the United Methodist Church. I listened, as the Holy Scripture was read. We sang hymns of praise together, proclaiming the love of Christ, in a room with no other sound except the rush of a mighty wind whirling around us. In moments of silence, during Holy Communion, and with every spoken prayer, my lips were burning with Holy Spirit fire. I knew without a doubt, we were standing in the presence of Almighty God, on holy ground.

Holy moments happen when believers gather together to pray. The Holy Spirit makes its presence known in simple things, like the sound of a person’s voice, or the tears welling up inside your closed eyes. One can feel the presence and power of the Holy Spirit when a humble heart seeks repentance and restoration, forgiveness and grace. I knew the Holy Spirit was falling on me, because I could feel the touch of His flame on my lips.

Pentecost is alive and well. It is not just a story told from long ago. The fire still falls on people who gather together to pray and seek God’s face in community with one another. I am always amazed at how individual members of the body can come together, join hands, and become one in heart and mind through Christ Jesus, our risen Savior and Lord. It is a miraculous work of the Living Word in our lives. We, who are many, are one body, united in Jesus Christ. We pool our gifts and resources together and offer them up to the Lord we love. This evening was a holy and precious moment that will stay with me for the rest of my life.

Are your lips burning today? Have you experienced the gift of the Holy Spirit while joining hearts and hands with a body of believers in prayer and worship? You have a special place in the body of Christ. You belong here, and I am saving a seat for you today at Faith Church. Won’t you join me there as we experience the presence of the Lord together in worship?

Grace and peace,

Deb Spaulding

Faith UMC - St. Charles, MO

www.songofdeborah.com

Pray for: burning lips! When believers join together in one place, holding hearts and hands and raising one voice in praise, repentance and thanksgiving to Almighty God, the Holy Spirit falls down and makes us one body, united in Jesus Christ alone. Upper room moments are happening right now. Won’t you come and experience His presence in worship?

___________________________

© 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.