Scripture: I am not saying this because I am in need, for I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances. I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. I can do everything through him who gives me strength. (Philippians 4:11-13)
If there is one thing I’ve learned over the years, it’s that getting through this life with a low stress level is 90% attitude. The problem is: changing one’s attitude is far easier said than done. I don’t know how I turned from a morose, depressed, waif of a teenager into a positive thinking adult – all I can figure is, “It must have been a God-thing”, because I was at death’s door when I was 14. Nothing in life at all was worth living for.
Today, however, I often see the “silver lining” in life’s circumstances, especially when things don’t seem to be turning out quite right. I see it in other’s lives, too. But I don’t ever share my (positive) thoughts carelessly, or without being empathetic towards the current circumstance. So far, I have rarely turned people off by my attitude, but I can’t help but share my perspective on things.
When my eyes developed cataracts, I instantly thought, “Well! At least it’s “just” cataracts and not some debilitating eye disease with no cure!” When my pick-up truck was stolen several years ago, after the shock and disappointment, my next thought went to, “Praise God for Mom’s inheritance money. I can buy a new one.”
When any of my friends come up to me to complain that they were planning a trip to Disneyland, but there’s rain in the forecast, I’m quick to point out that that is the best time to go!! Less people, shorter lines, nearly all the lines are under cover, so you are rarely ever standing in the rain. And unless you really, really hate to get wet, that can really be one of the BEST times to go there!!
I can’t help it. The “silver lining thinking” is in my blood. And more often than not, I believe it actually helps my friends cope with what is in front of them. Sometimes we could all use a different perspective on things.
This isn’t to say that I’m neurotically “happy” and “up” at all times under all circumstances. Oh no, certainly, I have my own demons in my closet that I have to fight; old tapes from my past that get me down, things I am pessimistic about ever achieving. But by and large, I truly am content in whatever circumstance I'm in.
I believe part of my shift in attitude came from that dark place in my past. I’ve been in that black hole of depression. I’ve been in that place where life was too painful to continue on, but by the grace of God, He is the one who helped me put one foot in front of the other, rather than cut life short. I’ve visited the dark side. Now I see and live in the light.
As Christians, we are all moving towards one goal: To be with Christ for eternity once this life is over. With that in mind, I sometimes have to look around me and shake my head at all the present “stresses” in life. The truth is: everything here is temporary; and in the long run, who’s going to care in a week, a year, a decade about certain things?
When I have a clear mind and walking close to God, and someone in traffic cuts me off, or tailgates me, sometimes I just look up and think, “And in the grand scheme of things – what does it matter?” I pull over, let them by. I back off and I don’t tailgate myself. In the grand scheme of things, one day I want to be with Christ. So what does it matter that rude people are tailgating, that the clerk you asked where the widgets are sighed and acted as if you were an idiot, that you lost $20 that fell out of your pocket. It’s all just stuff in this world; we are all reaching for a much higher goal! What matters is how you’re living. Are you a Sunday morning, warm the bench kind of Christian who leaves church but still lives a worldly life? Or are you doing things to make a difference in His Kingdom?
Brothers and sisters, there are far more things important in life than to allow other people to “ruin your day” with their rude behavior, or stressing over minor arguments with friends or family, or holding grudges against others.
Ecclesiastes is probably one of the most morose books in the bible. Many times the phrase, “This too is meaningless. A chasing after the wind” appears. It’s not something to read when you are feeling down. But it’s an interesting book, read with the right attitude.
I see it as .. nothing matters in this world REALLY, because in the end, we’ll be in heaven with God. You can’t take your wealth, your prestige, car, house, best friend, pet fish, bubble gum .. nothing with you. Once you die, you are stripped of everything; and it’s all between you and God. Take a moment to think about that.
“Whoever loves money never has money enough; whoever loves wealth is never satisfied with his income. This too is meaningless.” (Ecclesiastes 5:10)
Much of Ecclesiastes is written in a very Eeyore – of Winnie the Pooh fame – attitude. Most of us can relate to poor Eeyore at one time or another. He’s a slow talking donkey who seems pessimistic about everything, but has a large capacity of compassion for his friends.
“I denied myself nothing my eyes desired, I refused my heart no pleasure. My heart took delight in all my work, and this was the reward for all my labor. Yet when I surveyed all that my hands had done and what I had toiled to achieve, everything was meaningless, a chasing after the wind, nothing was gained under the sun.” Ecclesiastes 2:10-11
Although a majority of Ecclesiastes seems very depressing “All is meaningless .." there are also morsels of hope and strength, as such I found in chapter 5: “Then I realized that it is good and proper for a man to eat and drink, and to find satisfaction in his toilsome labor under the sun during the few days of life God has given him - for this is his lot. Moreover, when God gives any man wealth and possessions, and enables him to enjoy them, to accept this lot and be happy in his work - this is a gift of God. He seldom reflects on the days of his life, because God keeps him occupied with gladness of heart.”
(Ecclesiastes 5:18-20)
It’s all about attitude, the way you look at things. Sometimes the glass is half full, sometimes half empty, sometimes you just have to be glad there is a glass at all, cuz some people don’t even have THAT. Other times what is more important is what is IN the glass to begin with. There’s all kinds of perspectives, but by and large, if you look for the bad in all things, you will find it. If you look for that silver lining, more often than not – you find it, and sometimes that silver reflects and blesses other people around you.
Prayer request: For those who would like to change their attitude towards life, that the Lord would begin to mold and shape them; help them to see a fresh, new, different perspective on life.
Prayer: Father, we ask You humbly to change out hearts towards You. You did not create us to look at all things in the world with a cynical eye, expecting the worst. No, You created each soul on this earth to worship You in all circumstances because of who You are. God Almighty, Savior, Creator, Father, Teacher. Help us to look towards You and not our circumstances, and help us to put all things in proper perspective. ~Amen~
Wednesday, July 29, 2009
Monday, July 27, 2009
Hope That Never Fades
Scriptures: “I know that my Redeemer lives, and that in the end He will stand upon the earth. And after my skin has been destroyed, yet in my flesh I will see God; I myself will see Him with my own eyes – I, and not another. How my heart yearns within me!” (Job 19:25-27)
The well-known Broadway musical, Fiddler on The Roof, is one of a few stories that touched my heart deeply. In the life of the main character, Tevya, we see the struggle of humanity for peace and harmony in a changing and merciless world, as symbolized by the efforts of a fiddler trying to produce the beautiful music and maintaining his balance on the steep roof all at the same time.
One of the scenes that kept echoing in my heart constantly since I saw it in the 70’s was the scene where the people from Tevye’s village, having been evicted by Tsar, stood in the cold freezing snow storm on the river bank waiting for the ferry boat. As they waited, they started to lament on the life in Anatevka, the village where they have spent their whole lives. Then, one of them asked their Rabbi a question, “Rabbi, wouldn’t this be the best time for the Messiah to come?” And the Rabbi replied, “We will simply have to wait for Him some place else!”
In a time when everything they had worked so hard for all their lives had been taken away, their land, their dreams, their families, their friends, and everything else that made up their lives, and they did not even know where to lodge the next evening, they remembered the Messiah they had hoped for throughout their history. In the midst of that blizzard, they looked up to the Promised One and wondered if that was the time for Him to come. How desperate their hearts must have been!
I knew there were times in my life when I shared the feelings of those people from Anatevka. In those times, people you knew or your loved ones could offer no help because they might have been in the same boat. There’s only one whom you could turn to. But there’s cloud and there’s heavy snowfall and we felt left out and blocked out. We cried out and heard only the sound of wind blowing the snow. We felt deserted and all alone. But, is this true?
The Rabbi had a different take. “We will simply have to wait for Him some place else,” he said. He will come! There was no doubt or question in the mind of the Rabbi. There wasn’t anything else that needs to be done, either. Only waiting, patiently! That’s all! Simple, but powerful!
It’s simple because there’s really nothing we need to do except keeping our faith and focus on Him continually. It’s powerful because we all know how hard it is to keep our faith when things don’t go the way we expect them to be. And yet, on the morning of that blizzard, the Rabbi saw the promise of God through the clouds and heavy snowfalls and through the heavy hands dealt him by people he did not even knew.
I was humbled! Someone who did not even know that his Redeemer had come and had brought eternal hope to all mankind could have such hope and persistence in God, how abut me, a Christian who claims to have known my Redeemer and whom our Heavenly Father calls His own? Do I only see the clouds and snowfalls? Or am I able to see the love and faithfulness of God beyond these circumstances and everything they have dealt me?
In the many encounters I’ve had with difficulties and disasters in life, the faith of that Rabbi challenged me time and again. I felt as if God was asking me, “Where do you see me in your life? In good times only? Or in bad times, too? Didn’t I promise you that I would never leave you, nor forsake you? Stand with me!”
Job, in the midst of his misery and agonies, made one of the greatest professions of faith when he said, “I know that my Redeemer lives, and that in the end He will stand upon the earth. And after my skin has been destroyed, yet in my flesh I will see God; I myself will see Him with my own eyes – I, and not another. How my heart yearns within me!” (Job 19:25-27) He longed for His Redeemer, His presence and His salvation!
Our circumstances are real. The pains and sufferings are real, too. But what’s equally true and more important is that neither our circumstance, nor our pains and sufferings get to say the last word. Our Lord does! Job declared, “I know that my Redeemer lives” (Job 19:25) He not only lives, He delivers us, too!
Praise the Lord!
Prayer Requests:
For all those finding it more and more difficult to make music out of a life of difficulties and turmoil
Prayer:
Our Lord God, You are the God of good times and of bad times. Help us to remember that You are always in control. If we grow weary in hanging on to You, give us strength and determination so we may stay focused and firm in our faith in You for we pray in the gracious name of our Lord Jesus, Amen!
The well-known Broadway musical, Fiddler on The Roof, is one of a few stories that touched my heart deeply. In the life of the main character, Tevya, we see the struggle of humanity for peace and harmony in a changing and merciless world, as symbolized by the efforts of a fiddler trying to produce the beautiful music and maintaining his balance on the steep roof all at the same time.
One of the scenes that kept echoing in my heart constantly since I saw it in the 70’s was the scene where the people from Tevye’s village, having been evicted by Tsar, stood in the cold freezing snow storm on the river bank waiting for the ferry boat. As they waited, they started to lament on the life in Anatevka, the village where they have spent their whole lives. Then, one of them asked their Rabbi a question, “Rabbi, wouldn’t this be the best time for the Messiah to come?” And the Rabbi replied, “We will simply have to wait for Him some place else!”
In a time when everything they had worked so hard for all their lives had been taken away, their land, their dreams, their families, their friends, and everything else that made up their lives, and they did not even know where to lodge the next evening, they remembered the Messiah they had hoped for throughout their history. In the midst of that blizzard, they looked up to the Promised One and wondered if that was the time for Him to come. How desperate their hearts must have been!
I knew there were times in my life when I shared the feelings of those people from Anatevka. In those times, people you knew or your loved ones could offer no help because they might have been in the same boat. There’s only one whom you could turn to. But there’s cloud and there’s heavy snowfall and we felt left out and blocked out. We cried out and heard only the sound of wind blowing the snow. We felt deserted and all alone. But, is this true?
The Rabbi had a different take. “We will simply have to wait for Him some place else,” he said. He will come! There was no doubt or question in the mind of the Rabbi. There wasn’t anything else that needs to be done, either. Only waiting, patiently! That’s all! Simple, but powerful!
It’s simple because there’s really nothing we need to do except keeping our faith and focus on Him continually. It’s powerful because we all know how hard it is to keep our faith when things don’t go the way we expect them to be. And yet, on the morning of that blizzard, the Rabbi saw the promise of God through the clouds and heavy snowfalls and through the heavy hands dealt him by people he did not even knew.
I was humbled! Someone who did not even know that his Redeemer had come and had brought eternal hope to all mankind could have such hope and persistence in God, how abut me, a Christian who claims to have known my Redeemer and whom our Heavenly Father calls His own? Do I only see the clouds and snowfalls? Or am I able to see the love and faithfulness of God beyond these circumstances and everything they have dealt me?
In the many encounters I’ve had with difficulties and disasters in life, the faith of that Rabbi challenged me time and again. I felt as if God was asking me, “Where do you see me in your life? In good times only? Or in bad times, too? Didn’t I promise you that I would never leave you, nor forsake you? Stand with me!”
Job, in the midst of his misery and agonies, made one of the greatest professions of faith when he said, “I know that my Redeemer lives, and that in the end He will stand upon the earth. And after my skin has been destroyed, yet in my flesh I will see God; I myself will see Him with my own eyes – I, and not another. How my heart yearns within me!” (Job 19:25-27) He longed for His Redeemer, His presence and His salvation!
Our circumstances are real. The pains and sufferings are real, too. But what’s equally true and more important is that neither our circumstance, nor our pains and sufferings get to say the last word. Our Lord does! Job declared, “I know that my Redeemer lives” (Job 19:25) He not only lives, He delivers us, too!
Praise the Lord!
Prayer Requests:
For all those finding it more and more difficult to make music out of a life of difficulties and turmoil
Prayer:
Our Lord God, You are the God of good times and of bad times. Help us to remember that You are always in control. If we grow weary in hanging on to You, give us strength and determination so we may stay focused and firm in our faith in You for we pray in the gracious name of our Lord Jesus, Amen!
Monday, July 20, 2009
Take My Hand
Scriptures: “If I go up to the heavens, You are there; if I make my bed in the depths, You are there. If I rise on the wings of the dawn, if I settle on the far side of the sea, even there Your hand will guide me, Your right hand will hold me fast.” (Psalm 139:8-10)
When I was a little boy, my Father used to take me to my uncle’s farm every Saturday. To get there, we had to take a bus which will take us to a small town near Taipei. Then we had to walk through a small local market followed by an adventuresome walk through a suspension bridge. Then, came one of my favorite parts of the trip, we had to pass a barracks where we often see soldiers practicing building bridges over the river. Afterwards, we would walk by a factory where they manufactured metal products. Then we would arrive at my uncle’s farm. The whole trip would take about an hour or so.
One of those trips was especially memorable to me. As usual, we went by bus and walked through the market. Then we came to that suspension bridge. It wasn’t a huge suspension bridge like the Gold Gate Bridge. It was just a bridge big enough for people living on both sides of the river to commute. Though the cables were big and strong, the deck was actually made up of planks only.
Like all other trips before it, my dad walked ahead of me and I just looked around and found everything interesting because they were so different from the city where I lived. Normally, I had no problems going through that bridge. But, that day, it was different. There was a piece of plank missing on the deck.
When I came to that spot where the plank was missing, I stopped. I could see through that “big” hole and saw the water running deep below. It seemed so deep that I couldn’t help fearing for making any mistake when crossing that “big” hole. I could feel my heart sinking as I gazed into that hole. I stood there and found no strength in me to step over. All of a sudden, a big hand grabbed my left hand. I looked up and there stood my dad. Somehow he noticed that I wasn’t keeping up with him and turned back for me. Without a word, he started walking. As he took hold of my hand, all of a sudden, that hole did not matter any more. I felt like, with that strong hand holding on to me, even if I fell into that hole, he could surely pick me up and lead me on.
In many ways, I often feel like reliving that moment again in my life. This is especially true after I came to know the Lord. That hole could be a financial crisis, an immigration related issue, a career problem, a spiritual battle, a difficult parent-child relationship, or others and I found myself at the end of my own rope, standing still and helpless. But our Lord God is faithful. He came along, grabbed my hand and started walking. Then, all of a sudden, everything was ok.
The hole is still there. It wasn’t reduced or removed and I am still the same person. But things are different. I am no longer fearful because He is with me. I didn’t have to raise my hand or cry out for help. He’s watching out for me. He sees me wherever I am and He comes to my rescue, even when I don’t know how to ask for help. His presence and companionship are my strength and my guidance.
You know what? The most amazing thing is, ever since then, never have I feared stepping over a hole, big or small, on a suspension bridge again!
Take My Hand, Precious Lord
Precious Lord, take my hand
Lead me on, let me stand
I am tired, I am weak, I am worn
Through the storm, through the night
Lead me on to the light
Take my hand precious Lord, lead me home
When my way grows drear
Precious Lord linger near
When my light is almost gone
Hear my cry, hear my call
Hold my hand lest I fall
Take my hand precious Lord, lead me home
When the darkness appears
And the night draws near
And the day is past and gone
At the river I stand
Guide my feet, hold my hand
Take my hand precious Lord, lead me home
Precious Lord, take my hand
Lead me on, let me stand
I’m tired, I’m weak, I’m lone
Through the storm, through the night
Lead me on to the light
Take my hand precious Lord, lead me home
-- by Rev. Thomas A. Dorsey
Prayer Requests:
For all those feeling trapped in the difficulties thrown their way by life
Prayer:
Father God, thank You for being so mindful of us. Thank You for coming to our sides to lead us on in life time and again. Thank You for the unending love You have shown us through Your Son Jesus and through the blessing of Your Spirit. Help us to share such amazing love and faithful grace with all for we pray in the mighty name of our Lord Jesus, Amen!
When I was a little boy, my Father used to take me to my uncle’s farm every Saturday. To get there, we had to take a bus which will take us to a small town near Taipei. Then we had to walk through a small local market followed by an adventuresome walk through a suspension bridge. Then, came one of my favorite parts of the trip, we had to pass a barracks where we often see soldiers practicing building bridges over the river. Afterwards, we would walk by a factory where they manufactured metal products. Then we would arrive at my uncle’s farm. The whole trip would take about an hour or so.
One of those trips was especially memorable to me. As usual, we went by bus and walked through the market. Then we came to that suspension bridge. It wasn’t a huge suspension bridge like the Gold Gate Bridge. It was just a bridge big enough for people living on both sides of the river to commute. Though the cables were big and strong, the deck was actually made up of planks only.
Like all other trips before it, my dad walked ahead of me and I just looked around and found everything interesting because they were so different from the city where I lived. Normally, I had no problems going through that bridge. But, that day, it was different. There was a piece of plank missing on the deck.
When I came to that spot where the plank was missing, I stopped. I could see through that “big” hole and saw the water running deep below. It seemed so deep that I couldn’t help fearing for making any mistake when crossing that “big” hole. I could feel my heart sinking as I gazed into that hole. I stood there and found no strength in me to step over. All of a sudden, a big hand grabbed my left hand. I looked up and there stood my dad. Somehow he noticed that I wasn’t keeping up with him and turned back for me. Without a word, he started walking. As he took hold of my hand, all of a sudden, that hole did not matter any more. I felt like, with that strong hand holding on to me, even if I fell into that hole, he could surely pick me up and lead me on.
In many ways, I often feel like reliving that moment again in my life. This is especially true after I came to know the Lord. That hole could be a financial crisis, an immigration related issue, a career problem, a spiritual battle, a difficult parent-child relationship, or others and I found myself at the end of my own rope, standing still and helpless. But our Lord God is faithful. He came along, grabbed my hand and started walking. Then, all of a sudden, everything was ok.
The hole is still there. It wasn’t reduced or removed and I am still the same person. But things are different. I am no longer fearful because He is with me. I didn’t have to raise my hand or cry out for help. He’s watching out for me. He sees me wherever I am and He comes to my rescue, even when I don’t know how to ask for help. His presence and companionship are my strength and my guidance.
You know what? The most amazing thing is, ever since then, never have I feared stepping over a hole, big or small, on a suspension bridge again!
Take My Hand, Precious Lord
Precious Lord, take my hand
Lead me on, let me stand
I am tired, I am weak, I am worn
Through the storm, through the night
Lead me on to the light
Take my hand precious Lord, lead me home
When my way grows drear
Precious Lord linger near
When my light is almost gone
Hear my cry, hear my call
Hold my hand lest I fall
Take my hand precious Lord, lead me home
When the darkness appears
And the night draws near
And the day is past and gone
At the river I stand
Guide my feet, hold my hand
Take my hand precious Lord, lead me home
Precious Lord, take my hand
Lead me on, let me stand
I’m tired, I’m weak, I’m lone
Through the storm, through the night
Lead me on to the light
Take my hand precious Lord, lead me home
-- by Rev. Thomas A. Dorsey
Prayer Requests:
For all those feeling trapped in the difficulties thrown their way by life
Prayer:
Father God, thank You for being so mindful of us. Thank You for coming to our sides to lead us on in life time and again. Thank You for the unending love You have shown us through Your Son Jesus and through the blessing of Your Spirit. Help us to share such amazing love and faithful grace with all for we pray in the mighty name of our Lord Jesus, Amen!
Wednesday, July 15, 2009
The Love of God
Scripture: For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord. (Romans 8:39)
How great our God is. When I read the bible, certain scriptures sometimes just POP right out at me and my spirit leaps in recognition of the depth of what I am reading.
No one can fathom the love that God has for us. It’s immeasurable, indescribable and vast. No matter what we’ve done, how many times we fall, or follow our own wills and walk away from His, He is always right there waiting for us to come to our senses and repent. And when we do, He opens His arms to us. Every single time.
Love. Pure love.
I find it amazing. I don’t know why it struck me today more than yesterday, but I can’t describe to you how blessed I feel to serve such an awesome God who loves me so much, that He doesn’t hold my sins against me, He’s eager to guide my every footstep, and He is constantly protecting and providing for my every need.
Amazing.
My mind cannot wrap around the amount of grace God has for His children. All our Christian lives, we fall, pick ourselves up, and keep walking with Him, and He is quick to take our hand and continue along by our side, as though nothing untoward ever happened.
Grace:
The freely given, unmerited favor and love of God.
I admit that there are times I have felt as though God should not even bother to look upon me for the things I’ve done, thought and said. And yet, I read scripture, and my spirit is lifted, because I realize the only thing getting between me and God .. is ME.
I am in awe when I meditate on this scripture. And it also saddens me that so many people think that being a believer means having to adhere to “a bunch of rules and regulations” and “losing the freedom to do whatever one wants to do”. I’m sure religion can be that way. But to have a relationship with Christ is something indescribable.
We are loved by God in ways that the English language cannot even begin to describe. Nothing can separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord.
Thank you, Lord!!!!
Prayer request: To those who are struggling with sin in their lives, and feel condemned, ready to give up, think they can’t go to God any more for forgiveness. That the Lord will break through those veils and show them His overwhelming love for them.
Prayer: Thank You, Lord, for Your precious love, mercy and grace You bestow upon each one of us. For being the forgiving Father that You are, for Your patience that gives us time to “get it right”. Touch those who feel so far away from You and want nothing more than to draw closer to You. Help each of them to feel Your gentle presence in their lives. Amen
How great our God is. When I read the bible, certain scriptures sometimes just POP right out at me and my spirit leaps in recognition of the depth of what I am reading.
No one can fathom the love that God has for us. It’s immeasurable, indescribable and vast. No matter what we’ve done, how many times we fall, or follow our own wills and walk away from His, He is always right there waiting for us to come to our senses and repent. And when we do, He opens His arms to us. Every single time.
Love. Pure love.
I find it amazing. I don’t know why it struck me today more than yesterday, but I can’t describe to you how blessed I feel to serve such an awesome God who loves me so much, that He doesn’t hold my sins against me, He’s eager to guide my every footstep, and He is constantly protecting and providing for my every need.
Amazing.
My mind cannot wrap around the amount of grace God has for His children. All our Christian lives, we fall, pick ourselves up, and keep walking with Him, and He is quick to take our hand and continue along by our side, as though nothing untoward ever happened.
Grace:
The freely given, unmerited favor and love of God.
I admit that there are times I have felt as though God should not even bother to look upon me for the things I’ve done, thought and said. And yet, I read scripture, and my spirit is lifted, because I realize the only thing getting between me and God .. is ME.
I am in awe when I meditate on this scripture. And it also saddens me that so many people think that being a believer means having to adhere to “a bunch of rules and regulations” and “losing the freedom to do whatever one wants to do”. I’m sure religion can be that way. But to have a relationship with Christ is something indescribable.
We are loved by God in ways that the English language cannot even begin to describe. Nothing can separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord.
Thank you, Lord!!!!
Prayer request: To those who are struggling with sin in their lives, and feel condemned, ready to give up, think they can’t go to God any more for forgiveness. That the Lord will break through those veils and show them His overwhelming love for them.
Prayer: Thank You, Lord, for Your precious love, mercy and grace You bestow upon each one of us. For being the forgiving Father that You are, for Your patience that gives us time to “get it right”. Touch those who feel so far away from You and want nothing more than to draw closer to You. Help each of them to feel Your gentle presence in their lives. Amen
Wednesday, July 8, 2009
Diamonds in the Rough
Scripture: “Come, you who are blessed by my Father; take your inheritance, the kingdom prepared for you since the creation of the world. For I was hungry and you gave me something to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you invited me in, I needed clothes and you clothed me, I was sick and you looked after me, I was in prison and you came to visit me.” Matthew 25:34-36
Often times, I can’t help but wonder if God is testing us when we find ourselves in circumstances that we normally have an aversion to, but we are forced either physically or spiritually to deal with them.
For instance, when I see homeless people at the corners of shopping malls holding signs asking for food or money, it’s a constant battle in my mind as to who is really in need, and who is scamming the public? Being a single woman, there is always the worry regarding, “is this person even safe to approach?” It’s a shameful way to have to think, however, I watch the news daily, and can’t help but pause and give thought to my next move.
I usually wait for the Lord’s prompting in these situations, and certainly, there have been times my heart was tugged on in such a way I just knew it was God and I had to act.
“A diamond in the rough”. It’s the ability to have a vision of someone’s or something’s potential when the raw product is right before you. Like when my best friend and I bought a house. The paint colors were awful, the yard needed serious work, there were broken and damaged things to fix – yet we bought it because we had a vision of what it would look like once we did repairs.
I’ve seen similar potential in people. I think you have too. You look at someone and you see the “rough” in front of you, but sometimes you can pick out the “soft” inside that mean exterior. You can see renewed health and vigor in someone recovering from illness. You look beyond what is in front of you – and see valued treasure behind it. Diamonds in the rough.
Something like this happened to me last weekend. In the past, I’ve never been a “cat person”. In all honesty, I didn’t like them one bit as a kid. Maybe it’s because I learned as a child that cats want to be pet on their terms, so when they are done with you petting them, rather than walk away, they sometimes, quick as a flash and without warning, swipe at you with those sharp claws to let you know, “Stop touching me!” I always found that to be so rude! So I therefore adopted a “Dogs Rule! Cats Drool” mentality. Harumph!
So I don’t know when my strong dislike for cats dissolved. It probably came from growing older, more mature, and making friends with people who ARE owned by cats. (C’mon, we all know cats are never owned! Hee hee!) More than likely, too, it was simply God growing me up, creating me more into His image.
Last weekend, I was gardening in the front yard with my best friend when a stray cat walked by the house. A little gray and white thing, literally skin and bones, and a white and purple collar around it’s neck. (Why would a cat look so bad if someone belonged to it?) It was just pitiful. And I ignored it. Until it walked by again, this time mewling it's introduction to me. Now it was breaking my heart. I ignored it. Until it walked by a third time.
I'll make a longer story short. After that third pass, I grabbed my keys and hauled off to the grocery store for cat food. I couldn't stand it any more.
Me. A DOG person. I own a dog. I live with TWO dogs. I used to DISLIKE cats. Strongly. And here I was, running to the store as fast as I could to feed this poor, pitiful creature. I think I am now a cat owner. If that isn't GOD at work, I really don't know what is. But it seems to be the theme in my life these days. The house, the yard, a cat. I see the rough in front of me - but I see potential.
So not only do I feel that God has certainly grown me up and matured me, but He has also filled me with a compassion that was not there before.
How much rough does God see through each of us to see the diamond resting on the inside? We all have our past, history, hurts and baggage. But God sees the diamond inside each one of us, just as He divinely created us; and as we devote our lives to Him, he helps us to chisel through the "rough" to become more like HIM. I believe the above scripture applies, because in order to serve others and provide for their needs, we must get beyond our initial judgment of them, which is unfortunately, a natural response for many. And we aren't beyond being healed of old judgments, as has been proven by my taking in "Mr. Bones" as I affectionately call him.
So here I am. A diamond in the rough. And God's not done with me yet. My desire is to continue to chisel through some of my weaknesses and my past in order to fulfill His potential for me.
Prayer request: Pray for those who have "rough edges" they are trying to work through. Past hurts, old grudges, difficult experiences in childhood and adolescence. Pray that God can break through for each of them, so they can fulfill God's desire in their lives.
Prayer: Lord, we ask You to touch each one of our lives, heal us of our pasts, help us to reach forward to all the goodness You have for us, help us to hear Your words, obey Your calling, shed all those things that keep us from You. And thank You, Lord - for choosing us despite our "rough edges". Amen
Often times, I can’t help but wonder if God is testing us when we find ourselves in circumstances that we normally have an aversion to, but we are forced either physically or spiritually to deal with them.
For instance, when I see homeless people at the corners of shopping malls holding signs asking for food or money, it’s a constant battle in my mind as to who is really in need, and who is scamming the public? Being a single woman, there is always the worry regarding, “is this person even safe to approach?” It’s a shameful way to have to think, however, I watch the news daily, and can’t help but pause and give thought to my next move.
I usually wait for the Lord’s prompting in these situations, and certainly, there have been times my heart was tugged on in such a way I just knew it was God and I had to act.
“A diamond in the rough”. It’s the ability to have a vision of someone’s or something’s potential when the raw product is right before you. Like when my best friend and I bought a house. The paint colors were awful, the yard needed serious work, there were broken and damaged things to fix – yet we bought it because we had a vision of what it would look like once we did repairs.
I’ve seen similar potential in people. I think you have too. You look at someone and you see the “rough” in front of you, but sometimes you can pick out the “soft” inside that mean exterior. You can see renewed health and vigor in someone recovering from illness. You look beyond what is in front of you – and see valued treasure behind it. Diamonds in the rough.
Something like this happened to me last weekend. In the past, I’ve never been a “cat person”. In all honesty, I didn’t like them one bit as a kid. Maybe it’s because I learned as a child that cats want to be pet on their terms, so when they are done with you petting them, rather than walk away, they sometimes, quick as a flash and without warning, swipe at you with those sharp claws to let you know, “Stop touching me!” I always found that to be so rude! So I therefore adopted a “Dogs Rule! Cats Drool” mentality. Harumph!
So I don’t know when my strong dislike for cats dissolved. It probably came from growing older, more mature, and making friends with people who ARE owned by cats. (C’mon, we all know cats are never owned! Hee hee!) More than likely, too, it was simply God growing me up, creating me more into His image.
Last weekend, I was gardening in the front yard with my best friend when a stray cat walked by the house. A little gray and white thing, literally skin and bones, and a white and purple collar around it’s neck. (Why would a cat look so bad if someone belonged to it?) It was just pitiful. And I ignored it. Until it walked by again, this time mewling it's introduction to me. Now it was breaking my heart. I ignored it. Until it walked by a third time.
I'll make a longer story short. After that third pass, I grabbed my keys and hauled off to the grocery store for cat food. I couldn't stand it any more.
Me. A DOG person. I own a dog. I live with TWO dogs. I used to DISLIKE cats. Strongly. And here I was, running to the store as fast as I could to feed this poor, pitiful creature. I think I am now a cat owner. If that isn't GOD at work, I really don't know what is. But it seems to be the theme in my life these days. The house, the yard, a cat. I see the rough in front of me - but I see potential.
So not only do I feel that God has certainly grown me up and matured me, but He has also filled me with a compassion that was not there before.
How much rough does God see through each of us to see the diamond resting on the inside? We all have our past, history, hurts and baggage. But God sees the diamond inside each one of us, just as He divinely created us; and as we devote our lives to Him, he helps us to chisel through the "rough" to become more like HIM. I believe the above scripture applies, because in order to serve others and provide for their needs, we must get beyond our initial judgment of them, which is unfortunately, a natural response for many. And we aren't beyond being healed of old judgments, as has been proven by my taking in "Mr. Bones" as I affectionately call him.
So here I am. A diamond in the rough. And God's not done with me yet. My desire is to continue to chisel through some of my weaknesses and my past in order to fulfill His potential for me.
Prayer request: Pray for those who have "rough edges" they are trying to work through. Past hurts, old grudges, difficult experiences in childhood and adolescence. Pray that God can break through for each of them, so they can fulfill God's desire in their lives.
Prayer: Lord, we ask You to touch each one of our lives, heal us of our pasts, help us to reach forward to all the goodness You have for us, help us to hear Your words, obey Your calling, shed all those things that keep us from You. And thank You, Lord - for choosing us despite our "rough edges". Amen
Tuesday, July 7, 2009
Is Your Perception Reality?
Scripture: "The Israelites have rejected your covenant, broken down your altars, and put your prophets to death with the sword. I am the only one left, and now they are trying to kill me too" (1 Kings 19:14).
The CEO walked into his manufacturing plant only to observe an employee standing by idly not working. Angrily, he walked over to him, peeled off a $100 bill and gave it to him: "Here, go spend your time elsewhere!" The man looked at the CEO somewhat puzzled, but left with the $100. "How long has that man worked for us?" said the CEO to the employee standing nearby.
"Well sir, that man does not work for us; he is only the delivery man."
Perception is not always reality. Elijah was in a crisis. Jezebel wanted to kill him. The nation was falling to Baal worship. From his vantage point - it was all over. He was the only prophet remaining in all the land who had not bent his knee to the idol of Baal. He wanted to die.
Then, the Lord sent His angel to correct Elijah's perception: "Yet I reserve seven thousand in Israel - all whose knees have not bowed down to Baal and all whose mouths have not kissed him" (1 Kings 19:18). There were seven thousand Elijah knew nothing about! Elijah's perception was not reality.
Whenever things are going poorly, there is a temptation to believe God is not working in the situation. We may even believe our life is over. Everything from our vantage point is dark. We see no future. However, even in these times, God's plan is being orchestrated behind the scenes. He is accomplishing His purposes. But we need a fresh perspective on our situation.
Do you need a reality check on your situation? Ask God to show you the truth. It may be very different than your perception.
Prayer:
Lord Jesus, thank you for reminding us that you are always there even when things seem to change around us. Help us keep are perception through your eyes and trust you through every situation. Amen.
(TGIF Today God Is First Volume 2, by Os Hillman07-06-2009)
I needed this today.
The CEO walked into his manufacturing plant only to observe an employee standing by idly not working. Angrily, he walked over to him, peeled off a $100 bill and gave it to him: "Here, go spend your time elsewhere!" The man looked at the CEO somewhat puzzled, but left with the $100. "How long has that man worked for us?" said the CEO to the employee standing nearby.
"Well sir, that man does not work for us; he is only the delivery man."
Perception is not always reality. Elijah was in a crisis. Jezebel wanted to kill him. The nation was falling to Baal worship. From his vantage point - it was all over. He was the only prophet remaining in all the land who had not bent his knee to the idol of Baal. He wanted to die.
Then, the Lord sent His angel to correct Elijah's perception: "Yet I reserve seven thousand in Israel - all whose knees have not bowed down to Baal and all whose mouths have not kissed him" (1 Kings 19:18). There were seven thousand Elijah knew nothing about! Elijah's perception was not reality.
Whenever things are going poorly, there is a temptation to believe God is not working in the situation. We may even believe our life is over. Everything from our vantage point is dark. We see no future. However, even in these times, God's plan is being orchestrated behind the scenes. He is accomplishing His purposes. But we need a fresh perspective on our situation.
Do you need a reality check on your situation? Ask God to show you the truth. It may be very different than your perception.
Prayer:
Lord Jesus, thank you for reminding us that you are always there even when things seem to change around us. Help us keep are perception through your eyes and trust you through every situation. Amen.
(TGIF Today God Is First Volume 2, by Os Hillman07-06-2009)
I needed this today.
Sunday, July 5, 2009
What do you see?
Scriptures: “The Lord is not slow in keeping His promises, as some understand slowness. He is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance.” (II Peter 3:9)
At one point in his ministry, Dwight L. Moody had a visitor from Great Britain. This visitor was a pastor himself and had been interested in how Moody’s ministry could have been so successful. So, during one of Moody’s crusade in New York, he went there and stayed in the same hotel where Moody stayed.
One night, he went to visit Moody and asked Moody the motivation behind his ministries. Moody asked him, “What do you see outside?” This pastor went to the window and look outside and saw nothing but New York nigh lights and lots of people going up and down the streets. So he turned around and told Moody, “Nothing really!” Moody told him to look again and this pastor came to the same conclusion.
But Moody told him to look the third time. This English pastor tried the third time and was frustrated for not being able to see anything significant. So he turned to Moody and complained, “What exactly did you want me to see?” To this, Moody walked up to the window and look out into the streets. He turned to his visitor with tears in his eyes and said, “Did you see those people going up and down the street? Without the good news of Lord Jesus’ salvation, they will all perish.”
Both Moody and the English pastor saw the same group of people. But that picture meant differently to them. That pastor saw a lot of New Yorkers busy going about their daily businesses. But, to Moody, they are a group of people in need of the grace of salvation from God. More than in need, Moody saw the devastating consequence of not sharing the gospel with them. What he saw made a huge difference in his ministries.
One time, when told about a group of “Galileans whose blood Pilate had mixed with their sacrifices,” (Luke 13:1) Jesus said, “Do you think these Galileans were worse sinners than all the other Galileans because they suffered this way? I tell you, no! But unless you repent, you too will all perish.” (Luke 13:2-3) While those people knew about the tragedy of those Galileans like Jesus, they only went so far as to think that those Galileans died as a result of their sins. Jesus, on the other hand, saw a much greater danger hiding behind such spectator commentary. He saw the need of getting right with God through repentance without which we would all perish.
Such was Jesus’ heart, always concerned with human blindness and inability in getting a clear vision of the spiritual reality. If only we see the spiritual reality like Jesus, how different will we respond to those who wrong us? How different will we treat each person God sends our way? How different will our understandings be for the purposes of our own lives?
I guess what we see play an important role on what we do. Moody saw the need of salvation and dedicated his life to preaching the good news of our Lord Jesus. Many other great servants and maids of God did exactly the same thing Moody did and made a tremendous difference in the Kingdom of God. How about us? What do we see in our everyday life? What catches our attention? Is it news in TV’s and newspapers like the crisis in our economy; the crisis in the Middle East; the crisis of H1N1 epidemic; the crisis of nuclear threat in Northeast Asia; the crisis of Somali pirates; and more? What did we see in these news? Did we really know what they meant to us?
Maybe it’s time for us to readjust the focus of our spiritual lens. Let’s switch to using the lens our Lord Jesus used. Paul said, “Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus:” (Philippians 2:5 KJV) When we do so, I am convinced that will be the moment when we will truly be empowered and motivated to do His will and “may have power, together with all saints, to grasp how wide and long and high and deep is the love of Christ, and to know this love that surpasses knowledge – that you may be filled to the measure of all the fullness of God.” (Ephesians 3:18-19)
Prayer Requests:
For all those searching for opportunities to expand God’s Kingdom
Prayer:
Our heavenly Father, thank You for giving purposes and meanings to our lives. Please help us to see this world with all the people and all that’s going on in it through Your eyes so we may know Your plans for us and may respond to Your callings in every encounter with people and with every circumstances for we pray in the wonderful name of our Lord Jesus, Amen!
At one point in his ministry, Dwight L. Moody had a visitor from Great Britain. This visitor was a pastor himself and had been interested in how Moody’s ministry could have been so successful. So, during one of Moody’s crusade in New York, he went there and stayed in the same hotel where Moody stayed.
One night, he went to visit Moody and asked Moody the motivation behind his ministries. Moody asked him, “What do you see outside?” This pastor went to the window and look outside and saw nothing but New York nigh lights and lots of people going up and down the streets. So he turned around and told Moody, “Nothing really!” Moody told him to look again and this pastor came to the same conclusion.
But Moody told him to look the third time. This English pastor tried the third time and was frustrated for not being able to see anything significant. So he turned to Moody and complained, “What exactly did you want me to see?” To this, Moody walked up to the window and look out into the streets. He turned to his visitor with tears in his eyes and said, “Did you see those people going up and down the street? Without the good news of Lord Jesus’ salvation, they will all perish.”
Both Moody and the English pastor saw the same group of people. But that picture meant differently to them. That pastor saw a lot of New Yorkers busy going about their daily businesses. But, to Moody, they are a group of people in need of the grace of salvation from God. More than in need, Moody saw the devastating consequence of not sharing the gospel with them. What he saw made a huge difference in his ministries.
One time, when told about a group of “Galileans whose blood Pilate had mixed with their sacrifices,” (Luke 13:1) Jesus said, “Do you think these Galileans were worse sinners than all the other Galileans because they suffered this way? I tell you, no! But unless you repent, you too will all perish.” (Luke 13:2-3) While those people knew about the tragedy of those Galileans like Jesus, they only went so far as to think that those Galileans died as a result of their sins. Jesus, on the other hand, saw a much greater danger hiding behind such spectator commentary. He saw the need of getting right with God through repentance without which we would all perish.
Such was Jesus’ heart, always concerned with human blindness and inability in getting a clear vision of the spiritual reality. If only we see the spiritual reality like Jesus, how different will we respond to those who wrong us? How different will we treat each person God sends our way? How different will our understandings be for the purposes of our own lives?
I guess what we see play an important role on what we do. Moody saw the need of salvation and dedicated his life to preaching the good news of our Lord Jesus. Many other great servants and maids of God did exactly the same thing Moody did and made a tremendous difference in the Kingdom of God. How about us? What do we see in our everyday life? What catches our attention? Is it news in TV’s and newspapers like the crisis in our economy; the crisis in the Middle East; the crisis of H1N1 epidemic; the crisis of nuclear threat in Northeast Asia; the crisis of Somali pirates; and more? What did we see in these news? Did we really know what they meant to us?
Maybe it’s time for us to readjust the focus of our spiritual lens. Let’s switch to using the lens our Lord Jesus used. Paul said, “Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus:” (Philippians 2:5 KJV) When we do so, I am convinced that will be the moment when we will truly be empowered and motivated to do His will and “may have power, together with all saints, to grasp how wide and long and high and deep is the love of Christ, and to know this love that surpasses knowledge – that you may be filled to the measure of all the fullness of God.” (Ephesians 3:18-19)
Prayer Requests:
For all those searching for opportunities to expand God’s Kingdom
Prayer:
Our heavenly Father, thank You for giving purposes and meanings to our lives. Please help us to see this world with all the people and all that’s going on in it through Your eyes so we may know Your plans for us and may respond to Your callings in every encounter with people and with every circumstances for we pray in the wonderful name of our Lord Jesus, Amen!
Thursday, July 2, 2009
Water Rationing
Jesus answered and said to her, “Everyone who drinks this water will be thirsty again; but whoever drinks the water I shall give will never thirst. The water I shall give will become in him a spring of water welling up to eternal life” (Jn. 4:13-14).
Last month, the city of Los Angeles began water rationing. Those of us who live within the city limits must reduce our water consumption by 15% from last year’s levels or face heavy fines. As I left for work this morning, I noticed how dry the lawns are around our neighborhood, and we have yet to experience the normal week-long periods of triple digit temperatures that are so common here during the summer. My rosebushes, too, are showing signs of needing water, as I’ve had to cut back from watering them daily to only watering twice a week. The edges of the blooms are becoming brown, thirsting as the deer longs for running streams (Ps. 42:1).
It makes me glad to know that God does not ration His grace – the “living water” that is the Holy Spirit. But there sure are signs that we as a people have rationed off our intake. Marriages and families are in trouble and people wonder why. The media and some politicians respond by proposing alternative lifestyle: If you don’t want to work hard at marriage and family life, that’s OK. Just do whatever you want and we’ll certify it as normal and acceptable.
I’ve returned recently to weekly prayer meeting attendance. I had noticed that my spirit was beginning to sag just a little bit – much like my roses. At first I thought it might be just let-down after a week of silent retreat in Colorado last month. But as I examined things more closely, I found a deeper need and even longing for this kind of encounter with the Holy, beyond my personal prayer. It is also nice to be able to praise and worship God in a setting where I don’t have to worry about having any role or responsibilities beyond whatever the Spirit might lead me to do or say during the course of that time together – something that can be difficult for me during regular Sunday worship because of my responsibilities as a cantor, accompanist and assistant choir director. The prayer meeting presents a wonderful opportunity to “fill the tank” with Living Water.
So if you’re feeling the drought in the spiritual department, try a little praise and worship! It is amazing what happens when we open the door to the floods of grace that God is longing to pour out upon those who are open to it.
Prayer Request: For those feeling spiritually dry and desolate
Prayer: O Lord, our God, we praise You for Your abundant goodness to us. We stand open and ready to receive the living waters of your Holy Spirit. Pour out this water upon us, that it might flow through us to a world that is thirsting for You, yet knows not its own need. We make this prayer through Jesus Christ, our Lord. Amen.
Last month, the city of Los Angeles began water rationing. Those of us who live within the city limits must reduce our water consumption by 15% from last year’s levels or face heavy fines. As I left for work this morning, I noticed how dry the lawns are around our neighborhood, and we have yet to experience the normal week-long periods of triple digit temperatures that are so common here during the summer. My rosebushes, too, are showing signs of needing water, as I’ve had to cut back from watering them daily to only watering twice a week. The edges of the blooms are becoming brown, thirsting as the deer longs for running streams (Ps. 42:1).
It makes me glad to know that God does not ration His grace – the “living water” that is the Holy Spirit. But there sure are signs that we as a people have rationed off our intake. Marriages and families are in trouble and people wonder why. The media and some politicians respond by proposing alternative lifestyle: If you don’t want to work hard at marriage and family life, that’s OK. Just do whatever you want and we’ll certify it as normal and acceptable.
I’ve returned recently to weekly prayer meeting attendance. I had noticed that my spirit was beginning to sag just a little bit – much like my roses. At first I thought it might be just let-down after a week of silent retreat in Colorado last month. But as I examined things more closely, I found a deeper need and even longing for this kind of encounter with the Holy, beyond my personal prayer. It is also nice to be able to praise and worship God in a setting where I don’t have to worry about having any role or responsibilities beyond whatever the Spirit might lead me to do or say during the course of that time together – something that can be difficult for me during regular Sunday worship because of my responsibilities as a cantor, accompanist and assistant choir director. The prayer meeting presents a wonderful opportunity to “fill the tank” with Living Water.
So if you’re feeling the drought in the spiritual department, try a little praise and worship! It is amazing what happens when we open the door to the floods of grace that God is longing to pour out upon those who are open to it.
Prayer Request: For those feeling spiritually dry and desolate
Prayer: O Lord, our God, we praise You for Your abundant goodness to us. We stand open and ready to receive the living waters of your Holy Spirit. Pour out this water upon us, that it might flow through us to a world that is thirsting for You, yet knows not its own need. We make this prayer through Jesus Christ, our Lord. Amen.
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