THE GOD OF RSTORATION

During the month of March the Almond trees are decked out with delicate yet showy pinkish white blooms. The soft petals resemble snowflakes as they drift to the earth below. They carpet the ground in dots and clumps creating a downy pastel cover. The mountains are peaked with snow and the air is crisp, clean, and cool. These wonders of nature are God's signal of the coming transition from winter to spring. There are in the landscape other trees, though, which are still stark and bare. They display very little obvious evidence of new growth. Upon closer examination, however, we will find that there are tiny buds arising on the very tips of their branches. These buds remind us that although the trees are generally brownish grey and barren looking, that God is working almost in secret to bring about the new life of spring.

So it is with our own lives. Circumstances may appear bleak, desolate and hopeless to the untrained eyes of the soul. However, mature believers understand that the Lord is working behind the scenes to change our personal seasons. In the natural sphere summer, winter, spring, and fall come about in regular sequence and timing according to our calendar months. However, in the spiritual realm it seems that timing and sequence are not so predictable. We may experience what feels like endless winters of trial and tribulation. Be assured, though, that our faithful God has not abandoned us. "Never will I leave you. Never will I forsake you." Hebrews 13:5 (NIV) The Lord sees our pain, heartbreak, and negative life situations."You are the God who sees me." Genesis 16:13 (NIV) He is working to bring about a resolution to our problems. He will heal us with the warmth and joy of a summer season. The Word of God encourages us to walk by faith and not by sight. 2 Corinthians 5:7 May our Heavenly father help us in the midst of our afflictions to anticipate the blossoms of spring and the green leaves of a summer of restoration.

Written by CF

FRUIT

Sunday, February 27, 2011 Devotional

I live in Arizona, and the citrus fruits are abundant at this time of year. Our 4 citrus trees are loaded - 3 orange trees and one tangelo tree. We also have what is left of a chopped down lemon tree - a few fresh branches sprouting up, with one lonely lemon on it! Reminds me of several Bible verses.

Now there were some present at that time who told Jesus about the Galileans whose blood Pilate had mixed with their sacrifices. Jesus answered, “Do you think that 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. Or those eighteen who died when the tower in Siloam fell on them—do you think they were more guilty than all the others living in Jerusalem? I tell you, no! But unless you repent, you too will all perish.”
Then he told this parable: “A man had a fig tree growing in his vineyard, and he went to look for fruit on it but did not find any. So he said to the man who took care of the vineyard, ‘For three years now I’ve been coming to look for fruit on this fig tree and haven’t found any. Cut it down! Why should it use up the soil?’
“‘Sir,’ the man replied, ‘leave it alone for one more year, and I’ll dig around it and fertilize it. If it bears fruit next year, fine! If not, then cut it down.’" Luke 13:1-9 NIV

The fruit that is spoken of in this verse is about repentance as stated right before the parable: "But unless you repent, you too will all perish." Jesus is speaking about all people being sinners, and about all sin causing the same outcome: death. Well, apparently our lemon tree would not even be stopped by being chopped down - it has sprouted up again and born more fruit. Just makes me remember that we should never give up on other people or ourselves either, no matter what the sin or how many times we fall, even if we flounder around, separated from God, the Holy Spirit can still work wonders and fertilize faith again, leading to the fruit of repentance. And that can only continue to grow if we remain faithful in God:

“I am the true vine, and my Father is the gardener. He cuts off every branch in me that bears no fruit, while every branch that does bear fruit he prunes so that it will be even more fruitful. You are already clean because of the word I have spoken to you. Remain in me, as I also remain in you. No branch can bear fruit by itself; it must remain in the vine. Neither can you bear fruit unless you remain in me. "I am the vine; you are the branches. If you remain in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing. If you do not remain in me, you are like a branch that is thrown away and withers; such branches are picked up, thrown into the fire and burned. If you remain in me and my words remain in you, ask whatever you wish, and it will be done for you. This is to my Father's glory, that you bear much fruit, showing yourselves to be my disciples." John 15:1-8 NIV

The "fruit" is about living a Godly life. The Holy Spirit creates faith and out of that grows Christian virtues, and apart from God we cannot produce truly good fruit that is pleasing in his eyes. Sometimes we can be led astray by people who sound virtuous, but if we look at the whole picture, at what they create and whether what they are doing leads to God or detracts from God and his power, we will know if it is good or bad fruit.

“Watch out for false prophets. They come to you in sheep’s clothing, but inwardly they are ferocious wolves. By their fruit you will recognize them. Do people pick grapes from thornbushes, or figs from thistles? Likewise, every good tree bears good fruit, but a bad tree bears bad fruit. A good tree cannot bear bad fruit, and a bad tree cannot bear good fruit. Every tree that does not bear good fruit is cut down and thrown into the fire. Thus, by their fruit you will recognize them." Matthew 7:15-20 NIV

The Bible speaks about the fruit of the Spirit, what are often called Christian virtues. These are the things for which we strive to produce with his help:

But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law. Those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires. Since we live by the Spirit, let us keep in step with the Spirit. Let us not become conceited, provoking and envying each other. Galations 5:22-25 NIV

My prayer therefore is that we remain faithful by the power of the Holy Spirit, thankful for his forgiveness when we fall, and fruitful for the Lord!

Written by Jan A.

Out of the Mouth's of Babes, There is No Condemnation

Devotional for 2/26/11

Sometimes it's necessary for parents to introduce and explain to their young children a fairly mature topic. Add to that the apprehension of exposing yourself as a person with a sinful past and you've got a dilemma. What if they don't understand? What if they use it as an excuse to live immorally? What if they condemn me? It's tempting to brush it under the rug and leave it in the past, but sometimes it's just not possible. As inquisitive, young minds grow and observe more and more of the world around them, especially in their own home and family, they'll ask questions. So, even though they appear to be too immature to process such topics, parents are at times faced with a choice: be honest and transparent, entrusting their children's hearts and mind to God, or lie, hide or downplay the truth knowing full well that the deception will eventually be revealed. We were faced with this choice in our family and we chose the first.

Out of four children, our oldest was obviously at the front of the line, and happened to be the main idea of the discussion. I honestly at the time did not consider that the conversation would have to repeat with future family members. It happened at the age of 6 1/2, when she became a big sister. She was anxious and excited. She observed everything going on around her, put things together in her own way, and noticed...very perceptively I might add...that there were some inconsistencies. So, our young child needed an explanation for why her daddy was not in the pictures and video of her own birth, why her last name was different from everyone else's in the family, and why she had a set of long-distance grandparents who would not be sending gifts for her new baby brother.

What a task we had...to explain to her that when I was pregnant with her, I was still a child myself, and by a man that she's never met. I had to explain to her what a biological father was. I was afraid that she would be jealous that her little brother came from her daddy's body but she didn't, and because of that, I wondered if she would resent this addition to our family. I was told that she would have abandonment issues. I was told a lot of things. But to my surprise, she didn't seem damaged at all by the news. She didn't become angry with this other man who lives on the other side of the world (literally). In fact, looking back at her response, as well as the responses of her (now) three younger brothers, I can see a different, positive aspect with each one.

I will say that our only daughter has always been quite confident in herself. She knows fully her worth. I guess I really should not have been surprised that her response was one of sadness and even pity for this poor man who would never have a chance to know her. Likewise, she was just thrilled for her daddy who was blessed with the privilege of taking care of her. Now, I know that this characteristic can be a breeding ground for pride and self-centeredness, and I'll admit that she has struggled in those areas, but I know that God created her to know without a doubt that she is worthy to be loved.

When time passed, we realized that we would have to reveal the truth to each one of her brothers that their daddy adopted their sister (which occurred a few months after our talk with her.) There was, naturally, a bit of anxiety on our part, but in the end, they all had a healthy and, as I said, positive response with each reflecting their unique personality.

Our oldest son, who God blessed with a calm demeanor, rarely tends to react irrationally to life. He listens, ponders, and internalizes most things, and so seemed to stay true to his character with the news of his sister. By the end of the conversation, it was clear that he chose to meditate on sin...the reality of it, the effects of it, and the lessons learned from it. I remember the words he spoke after hearing, from his perspective, a confession from his mother of her sinfulness. So, realizing that we are all vulnerable and can fall into temptation, he responded by saying, "Boy, I sure hope that doesn't happen to me."

The next child to hear the news, the middle boy, is the absolute polar opposite of his older brother. However, after conversations with two children bringing positive outcomes, we approached the third with less apprehension. Then we found that we probably should've put a little bit more prayer into it. Never-the-less, there were no real damaging affects...just a little emotional outburst which we quickly calmed down and put to rest. Yet, in retrospect, I still see that "one outburst" as exemplifying something beautiful about this child...his passion. This young man immediately saw injustice and it caused him to jump to the defense of his mother and sister with the question, "Where is he?" I guess he thought he was going to tell this biological sperm donor a thing or two.

When it was time to tell the last child, we wondered which pattern he would follow, pitying the poor soul who missed out on his sister, thinking more of his own sinfulness and how to prevent a fall, or desiring for justice to be served. Yet, my little boy responded with a sweetness that I'll treasure always. Just as our conversation with him wrapped up four challenging encounters of transparency revealing some not-so-nice realities of life, his words gave us a happy ending. I asked him if he was sad and he said, "no". I asked him if he was mad and he said, "no". I asked him if he was happy and he said, "yes". I asked him why and he said, "...because my sister got a daddy in the end."

What a beautiful sentiment. They all are, really. They all show, in some way, how God feels about us. God sees us as worthy to be loved. He desires the best in us, and that we won't give into sin's temptations. He's offended when we're treated badly, and seeks justice for our sake. And in the end, after our story's been told, He's joyful when we fall into His arms because He gets to be our daddy.

What a blessing that God spoke to us through our children with such compassion. I have absolutely no fear that my kids will hold my past over my head and use it against me. I'm so grateful that we were honest from the very beginning and received from our little babes’ words of love, and understanding...words that were far from condemning.

Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus.

Romans 8:1

Amie Spruiell 2/25/2011

“Going First”

Devotional for 2/25/11

“But God shows and clearly proves His (own) love for us

by the fact that while we were still sinners, Christ

(the Messiah, the Anointed One) died for us.

Romans 5:8~Amplifed Bible

If you are anything like me, then perhaps there have been times in your life when you have done more than your fair share of complaining. I will admit there have been times that I have even complained about things to the Lord. On one of these particular occasions, the Lord’s response left a very deep impression on me. This is what I would like to share with you today.

I am not sure now of what the exact circumstance was, but it went something like this. I and someone else were having differences. I believe that in my mind I thought that I was the one that just happened to be “right” in the situation. I remember feeling rather content in that belief, and I was more than convinced that the other person was the one that should come to me and attempt to make things right.

I can remember that I spoke to the Lord about all of this. I “presented” my case to Him, and I was more than confident that He would agree with my reasoning. You can imagine my surprise when He responded in the exact opposite way than I thought He would. Instead of agreeing with me that I should wait for the other person to make the first move in an attempt to reconcile the way things were between us, He actually asked me to take the first step. I couldn’t believe what I was hearing!

I had just gotten done explaining all of the circumstances to Him. He knew that I wasn’t the one who had made the error in behavior towards the other person. It was the other person who had made the error in behavior towards me! I hadn’t done anything wrong, I reminded Him. I had simply been the victim in this situation. Surely He didn’t really expect me to take the first step! That just wasn’t fair, I thought. I then proceeded to tell the Lord so.

What I heard inside of my heart were words that I would never have expected. I heard the Lord say to me, “I went first”. Those words literally startled me. I was shocked as I began to realize that the Lord was speaking about His going to the cross. In an instant I realized exactly what He meant. He had gone to the Cross for us, while we were yet sinners. He had not waited for us to approach Him. He had taken that long and painful journey before we were even aware that we would need Him. He gave up His life, willingly, before we ever chose to love Him, to follow Him, or to serve Him.

He had taken the first step, and by doing so, He had made possible the most important reconciliation of our lives. His “going first” had allowed us to reconcile with God. There was no other way that this could have taken place, and I cannot find any place in the Bible where it says that Jesus complained about what was being asked of Him.

I was silent, and more than deeply humbled. This realization seemed to change my whole attitude. If Jesus, my precious Lord and Savior, had accomplished so much by being the One to take the first step for us… then perhaps there would be something of value that could be accomplished by my going first, also. Suddenly the whole situation seemed to take on a complete different meaning for me.

Jesus is our example in this life. If ever there is a time when we don’t know which direction or action to take, we can safely look at His life and find our answer in the way in which He walked out His own life. He is the only One who ever walked out this life perfectly. What He did for us then, continues to save us, lead us, and heal us today.

I quickly and quietly asked the Lord to forgive me for my selfish way of thinking. I thanked Him for being so gentle and kind to me in the way in which He shows me things. I thanked Him again for “going first” and making a way for us to reconcile again with His Father, and our God. In ending, I asked Him to continue to make my heart more like His.

There are times in my life in which the same question will form on my lips, or in my mind. The question of “Why do I always have to be the one to go first?” It will not take me very long to remember the Lord’s response to me. It is almost immediate. I wish that I could say that my heart and mind don’t even ask the question anymore, but that would not be true. The truth is that I do. The difference is that after recalling the Lord’s response to me on that day, that now I am able to look at things differently. Because of this, I am then able to think things through with a whole different mindset, and hopefully, make a much better decision on how to proceed in the given situation.

I am so thankful that the Lord gives us wisdom. I am so aware that if He ever left me alone, the selfishness and self centeredness of my mind and my heart would certainly ruin me. I need to be reminded always of His goodness, His gentleness, and His humility. I need to be reminded always of His never ending love for me. I need to be reminded always of His favor towards me, and of His great ability to be so patient and so kind to me. I need to be reminded always of His selflessness and of His overwhelming and incomparable sacrifice, not only for me, but also for you.

It is my hope that in sharing this with you today, that perhaps you, also, will respond to the situation of “going first” in a different way. Thank you, Lord, for challenging us to take on a different mindset than the one that we have become accustomed to. Please continue to help us to grow in the area of relationships, specifically in the way in which we love and treat one another. Above all, thank you again for your sacrifice, and help us always, to become more and more like you. Amen.

 

Written by Beverley A. Napier

When God Repeats Himself

Have you ever zipped through a passage of scripture because there’s a line that keeps getting repeated? You know, sort of skimming over the chorus and moving on to the next ‘real’ phrase? I most certainly have. Even when I determine to read every line carefully and thoughtfully, I may follow through for a while, but when the section appears to go on forever, I kick it into high gear and started skimming again. (After all, I must get going. There are lots of things to do today.)

You have probably heard a pastor explain that whenever God repeats Himself in scripture we should pay extra careful attention.

All Scripture is inspired by God and is useful to teach us what is true and to make us realize what is wrong in our lives. It corrects us when we are wrong and teaches us to do what is right. (2Timothy 3:16 NLT)

I repeat myself to my children. Do this; don’t do that; and don’t forget are often responded to with an eye-rolling, “I know!” by young and old alike.  Which makes me wonder, am I saying “I know” to God when I skim over scripture? Unlike my motherly reminders which children do outgrow, when God repeats Himself –– I really do need to hear it – again!  

In Psalm 136 there are 26 verses. These sentences describe who God is and what He has done, each sentence ending with the same words: “For His mercy endures forever.” (KJV)  Psalm means song, and in this passage a leader would sing the first phrase and the congregation would respond with the second phrase. Why does the psalmist repeat himself 26 times? Why not remind us every other verse; or at the beginning, the middle and the end?

What’s so important about “His mercy endures forever”? Let’s start with a few other translations to increase our understanding of this phrase.

For His mercy and loving-kindness endure forever. (AMP)

His love never quits. (MSG)

For His loving kindness is everlasting. (NASB)

His faithful love endures forever. (NLT)

This is a worship song: it must have been comforting to the Israelites to remind themselves of God’s actions on their behalf, of His goodness, strength and unending love. Just like listening to your favorite kind of worship music can be soothing and encouraging to your spirit. I admit when a crisis comes my way, I often worry first, and then pray. If I had this phrase “His faithful love endures forever” written on my heart and mind, and repeated often by my own lips – I have no doubt that my confidence in God would grow larger than my fears and doubt.

God loves us with a love that is so much bigger and greater than any love we have ever known. He doesn’t just love us from afar but He loves us with action and involvement in our lives. How can we be sure? We have His assurances through His word.

He remembered us in our weakness.
         His faithful love endures forever.
 He saved us from our enemies.
         His faithful love endures forever.
 He gives food to every living thing.
         His faithful love endures forever.
 Give thanks to the God of heaven.
         His faithful love endures forever. (Psalm 136:23-26 NLT)

Written by Mary M. Wilkins

Walking In Our Inheritance

The word "inheritance" from the webster's dictionary says; ownership by virtue of birthright and right to inherit. That is good news for believers in Christ Jesus. In the book of Colossians 1:12 it says, "giving thanks to the Father who has qualified us to be partakers of the inheritance of the saints in the light." That scripture alone is jam packed with gold nuggets for us straight from our Heavenly Father. He has honored each member of the church with a rich inheritance directly from Him.

That particular scripture tells us that we are partakers of the inheritance of the saints in the light. Every promise in God's word belongs to us, His people. We can partake in His promises. We as His sons and daughters,have access to His Kingdom and His promises because of our inheritance. We belong to Christ and His promises are yes and Amen! We are qualified ( authorized and entitled) to partake with Him.

I count it a great honor and privelege to be a believer in Christ. I desire to truly grab hold of my inheritance and walk in it fully.
Blessings,

Writeen by Sandy

Seek God

Seek good, and not evil, that ye may live: and so the LORD,

the God of hosts, shall be with you, as ye have spoken

Amos : 5:14

______________________________________________________________________________


We are clearly commanded to seek God. "Seek," in this case, does not mean to search for something that is lost. We have already been invited into a relationship; we already know where God is. We do not have to search God out as if He is lost somewhere. Seek means, as the Expositor's Dictionary says, "to turn to Him in trust and confidence."


Barnes Notes comments: "It does not mean to seek to get something from Him, but rather to seek God for what He is in Himself." This hits the nail right on the head, because "what He is in Himself" is another way of describing "seeking to be in the image of God." Do this, and we will live forever, as He does.


When He says "live," He means " live abundantly" and "everlastingly." Regardless of how much we have in the way of material goods, we can still live abundantly, but this is directly tied to "seeking" Him. We seek Him to be like Him. We seek Him to build the relationship with Him.


The commentaries note that both "seek" and "live" are in the imperative. It is a command to be diligent, fervent, and persevering in following through in "seeking."


submitted by : Annie

WHAT DOES HE REQUIRE OF US

Monday, 2/21/2011 Devotional

I have always cherished the scripture Micah 6:8. "He has showed you O man, what is good. And what does the Lord require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God." (NIV) It is a concise and simple verse and yet profound. It is self explanatory and does not need any deep interpretation. If we comply with this admonition we will indeed be pleasing to our Lord and we will bear fruit for His Kingdom. It would be a beautiful scripture to share with new Christians who are seeking direction and focus in their walk with Christ. It is a lovely reminder, a plumb line, and provides a moral compass for our lives. We can measure our own motives and actions and assess our conduct using Micah 6:8 as a guide. With the Lord's help we can strive to carry out this worthy goal.


By CF

SURRENDER, SUFFER, AND DIE

We must surrender, suffer and die in order to live. Does that sound like something you are willing to do? Christ was willing and did those things, for our sake, and he didn't even deserve it! What does this mean for us?

SURRENDER: We admit that we are sinful by nature, and cannot on our own power please God. We know that only God himself can rescue us from the consequences of our sin. We surrender our will to God - knowing that our limited humanness cannot possibly know what is best for us, and that God's love for us and his wisdom for our life path will produce a far better outcome in our lives than we ever could produce on our own. Christ set a great example for us of surrendering to God the Father's will in his prayer on the Mount of Olives (though his had nothing to do with sinfulness, just surrendering to God's will):



“Father, if you are willing, take this cup from me; yet not my will, but yours be done.” Luke 22:42

SUFFER: We become willing to admit that we are sinful and willing to examine ourselves for how that plays out in our lives. Sometimes we don't want to look at the ways in which we sin against God. It may be difficult or even painful to admit all the ways that we go against his will. It may be even harder to think of changing our ways, of giving up things we think we can't possibly change, don't need to change, or can't live without, even when they interfere with our relationship with God. Sometimes we need to ask God to change our hearts, to help us see all of our faults, to give us the willingness to admit them and look at them honestly, even if it causes us suffering. We confess our sins to God and ask for forgiveness, not because we deserve it, but because Christ died in our place to pay for our sins. We can see that we need to work on changing these things, but we cannot do that on our own. However, we can ask God to change us, because he is the only one who can transform our lives.

But whatever were gains to me I now consider loss for the sake of Christ. What is more, I consider everything a loss because of the surpassing worth of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord, for whose sake I have lost all things. I consider them garbage, that I may gain Christ and be found in him, not having a righteousness of my own that comes from the law, but that which is through faith in Christ—the righteousness that comes from God on the basis of faith. I want to know Christ—yes, to know the power of his resurrection and participation in his sufferings, becoming like him in his death, and so, somehow, attaining to the resurrection from the dead. Philipians 3:7-11 (NIV)

DIE: Our sinful flesh must die so that our righteous blood-bought soul might live. We begin the hard work of God changing our ways, which we do out of thankfulness for his grace and forgiveness. This is a constant and ongoing process, and will not be complete until we die and go to heaven to be with our Lord and Savior. We remember always that we "win the prize" not because of what we do or how well our ways change. We win eternal life because of what Jesus Christ did by dying on the cross as payment for our sins, then rising again in glory. That occurred first, and our attempt to live a righteous life is our thankful response to that wonderful gift of eternal life. We do these things also as a witness to others of God's love. We may even suffer for being a follower of Christ or trying to share that with others. But we suffer through the difficulties of this world with God at our side as our protector and redeemer. Through it all, we die to sin and He gives us life in Christ.

What shall we say, then? Shall we go on sinning so that grace may increase? By no means! We are those who have died to sin; how can we live in it any longer? Or don’t you know that all of us who were baptized into Christ Jesus were baptized into his death? We were therefore buried with him through baptism into death in order that, just as Christ was raised from the dead through the glory of the Father, we too may live a new life.
For if we have been united with him in a death like his, we will certainly also be united with him in a resurrection like his. For we know that our old self was crucified with him so that the body ruled by sin might be done away with, that we should no longer be slaves to sin— because anyone who has died has been set free from sin.

Now if we died with Christ, we believe that we will also live with him. For we know that since Christ was raised from the dead, he cannot die again; death no longer has mastery over him. The death he died, he died to sin once for all; but the life he lives, he lives to God.
In the same way, count yourselves dead to sin but alive to God in Christ Jesus. Therefore do not let sin reign in your mortal body so that you obey its evil desires. Do not offer any part of yourself to sin as an instrument of wickedness, but rather offer yourselves to God as those who have been brought from death to life; and offer every part of yourself to him as an instrument of righteousness. For sin shall no longer be your master, because you are not under the law, but under grace. Romans 8 1-14 (NIV)

So in "surrendering" we recognize our sinfulness and turn our lives over to God's loving and powerful will to change us. In "suffering" we repent of our sinfulness that we have acknowledged and ask God to change us. In "dying" to our sinfulness we give up our hold on our corrupt lives and rejoice in God's mercy and grace in giving us eternal life through Christ. Perhaps then we can re-title this devotion, RECOGNIZE, REPENT AND REJOICE!


May God bless you with the vision to see the truth, the willingness to turn your life over to him and change, and the wisdom to follow through with his will for your life!

Written by Jan Andersen

The Self Deception of Flattery

I was challenged this week to reflect on how flattery can be deceptive, and what lessons can be learned from it. It was a fascinating challenge, so I mulled it around in my mind for quite awhile. I discovered that flattery comes in a variety of packaging. There were three that specifically came to my mind.

The way I see classic flattery is like this: It’s when others who have no intentions of accepting you for who you really are, convince you with their words and actions that you’re something (or someone else)…something or someone who you’d like to be because this “other” person who they’re convincing you that you “truly” are, is cool and accepted, liked and envied, attractive and desirable, trendy and fun, outgoing, enjoyable, the center of attention, or intimidating…even powerful.

But why would anyone do this? What’s the reason behind this “classic” flattery? All they’re really doing is exhibiting their own power over you; the power of influence…psychological influence. Of course, they do have ulterior motives. Their motives are that they want something from you. It’s either something you have or something you can do for them. You’ll find that these people who have made you into something you’re not will drop you in a second as soon as they’ve got what they wanted.

I can’t say that I’ve experienced such a harsh example. As a little child, I was lured into playing with my brother and cousin, and then bullied for their enjoyment. But it was minor…nothing that was traumatizing or even really that damaging. As a teenager, I know I was flattered by the boys because they definitely wanted something from me. I also remember being accepted by the “bad” crowd, but I think their only reason for flattery is because nobody wants to party alone…the more the merrier. Of course as a mom, I’ve been flattered by my kids for a lot of reasons. None of these seem to be that “deadly classic” version of flattery. But is the classic version really as deadly as we think? I think there’s a version of flattery that’s worse than this classic one because there’s more subtlety to it. In fact, I wouldn’t call it “flattery” so much as I would call it “flirting”.

One of the best decisions I’ve ever made was to quit work and stay home with my kids. In fact, I could write a book about all the reasons why I believe it was one of the best decisions of my life. But for this topic, I’ll focus on one. The corporate world is a dangerous place. I think that’s probably where most true flattery happens because it’s so competitive with everyone trying to outdo each other and get ahead.

Business men and women become so skilled at this, so fine tuned to this mindset that it spills over into every conversation. They become experts at being charming, and they pride themselves at their ability to get a positive response out of anyone…especially the opposite sex. Everyone is so caught up in this persona, they don’t realize that there are two things going on here…hormonal pleasure and power; two things that can be addictive. No one wants to put such harsh labels on something so enjoyable, helping the day go by, motivating workers, bringing an ambiance of cheerfulness, so they call it “harmless office flirting”.

Since its “harmless”, no one looks down upon it. Since there are no boundaries set, what you have is a group of people around each other day after day in a building full of sexual tension. And that’s not even mentioning what happens on the phone with business associates that are dealt with regularly, but at long distances so that there’s less accountability. Morality is subjective, right and wrong is cherry picked, and everyone assumes that everyone else is on the same page. So, it doesn’t even matter if you’re wearing a wedding ring or have a picture of your spouse on your desk…you’re still fair game.

I hated the environment. I understood what was happening and I resented it. It was a relief to stay home and be free from it. But I learned to set up strong boundaries, and my husband and I have had conversations about it, so that he also sets up strong boundaries. This type of flattery is definitely more dangerous and rampant than the classic, but there’s still another even more deceptive form. This one I believe women are the most susceptible to…because they don’t even know it’s happening…they don’t even know they’re the ones doing it.

The Lord brought this to my mind some years ago when I was in a women’s Bible study on the book of Proverbs. After several weeks we had reached chapter 7. Leading up to this chapter, there are bits and pieces of paragraphs warning young men of the seductress, but this entire chapter focuses on it. The women had, week after week, chosen to focus on the folly of the man and the immorality of the woman. The Lord made it clear that all we were doing was pointing fingers and not understanding our own role as the seductress. After all, who would want to believe that they themselves were a seductress? Here’s how it happens…

Women, who are generally full of sensitivity and compassion, exploding with motherly instincts, and desperately needing to be needed, can easily trigger a response in a man that was never intended to begin with. We don’t see it as “seductive”. We see it as “sweet”. We’ll give a kind smile, a warm hug, and an encouraging word. We don’t see ourselves as tempting, alluring, or manipulative…and really we’re not doing it purposely. We just don’t understand how a man can be vulnerable to such things.

Women, listen carefully, you don’t have to look like a movie star to be attractive. We’re all sexual creatures and a man can be tempted in a number of ways. It’s true that it feels wonderful to see a person lifted up by our kindness, but that’s where the flattery comes in…not us flattering the man, but flattering ourselves. Talk about subtle. We are flattering ourselves by telling ourselves that we’re helping another person, but what we don’t know is that the positive response received can be a result of that man perceiving us as being sexual. Hormones can be triggered by the scent of perfume or even the sound of a feminine voice.

So what’s a woman to do? There’s so much deception here, it’s complicating just to pick it apart. Don’t get me wrong. I’m not saying that we should all be cold and rude. I’m only pointing out that we must be aware of this deception. Be cautious. Calling yourself a “hugger” could be a disclaimer or an excuse. Finding out that he appreciated that token of wisdom or encouragement you offered him can bring affirmation to your heart, but if he continues to ask for more, don’t fall for it. Direct him to a masculine mentor. If you find that your smile brings out the best in everyone and fills the room with joy, that’s wonderful. However, as you look around and admire your work, don’t let your gaze hang too long on the men around you. They’ll interpret your facial expression as attraction, and guess what will start raging?

Flattery is not simply complimenting, according to Webster's, it is insincere or excessive praise; it is pleasing self-deception. Seek God's wisdom and make gaining insight our priority. I believe that we can be friendly and kind while being wise and humble…wise in relating to other's with the appropriate respect and consideration…humble in that we understand the weakness and vulnerability of human nature…especially in ourselves.

Pride comes before a fall

Proverbs 16:18

I take this warning to heart anytime I catch myself thinking, "I would never do such and such." A wise woman guards her heart and the words of her mouth and never lets down her guard.

Don't think more highly of yourself than you ought
Romans 12:3

When we say things that encourage others, it's important for us to remember to give God the credit.

For every good and perfect gift is from above -

coming down from the Father of heavenly lights

James 1:17

I am grateful for God's faithfulness to bring hidden things to the light when I ask Him to show me something and then wait for His answer.

Amie Spruiell
1/18/2011

Our Testimony

Devotional for 2/17/11

Have you ever wondered why it is that we are encouraged to share our testimony with others? I can remember asking myself this question the first time I was given the opportunity to share my own testimony. After all, I thought, “What purpose could there possibly be in bringing up all of that painful stuff? Isn’t it much better to just let it be and to move on in our lives?”

A lot of us have been through some pretty hard things. Why in the world would we want to “go through” them again by talking about them, especially in the presence of others? What good could possibly come out of talking about the things that were so bad? I mean, it would be different if you actually knew the people that you were talking to, but really… are we called to “bare” our soul (and all that we’ve been through) in front of complete strangers?

Yes, I believe that we are. The Bible says in Revelation 12, verse 11a, “For they have overcome (conquered) him by means of the blood of the Lamb and by the word of their testimony.” I absolutely love how the Lord first off purchased our freedom for us, and then how He delights in sending us out to share with others, this great work that He has accomplished in our lives.

There is something that happens on the inside of us when Jesus touches our lives. It is an experience unlike any other that I have ever known. It makes such a tremendous difference in our perspective. Where once we tried our best to “hide” the things that weren’t “lovely” in our lives, His touch in our life causes us to almost feel “compelled” to share these same things with others. Before we know it, we find that we want to share His goodness and love for us with them. We want to talk to them about the healing that has taken place in our lives. We want to share with them the new sense of hope that we have been given, in the very same places where once there was nothing but hopelessness. It is a beautiful process. I have found that it tends to become less and less about us and more about Him.

It is as if we are able to look around us and “see” those who are still in some kind of painful place in their life. Once you are broken, it isn’t that difficult to recognize the pain of brokenness in others. To be able to hear someone open up and begin to talk about their own pain somehow gives us the “license” or permission, to do the same with our own. It is as if you finally know that “somewhere” out there, there is a person that you believe will finally understand how you feel. When someone else opens up and shares their deepest fears and heartaches, somehow you begin to feel that you might be able to do the same.

 

I love how the Lord uses each and everything in our lives to accomplish His work in the world around us. I love seeing how He makes us “courageous” enough to step beyond our own comforts and fears. He begins to reach out, through us to others, with His love. It is something that I know that I will never, ever grow tired of. To be used of the Lord, to bring healing to someone else. It is both powerful and extremely humbling all at the same time. It is how God chooses to work. He allows us to be partners in His Son’s good work, right alongside Him.

So, if today you find yourself struggling to “share” your story with others, ask the Lord to give you the courage that you need to do it. I promise you, from my own personal experience, that no matter how hard it may seem to be at first, that once you do, it is something that you will never regret.

Written by Beverley A. Napier

A Valentine for You

Devotional for 2/17/11

Beautifully arranged, velvet smooth red roses are lying on a bed of lush ferns and delicate white baby’s breathe tied with a bright bow. “I love you” is written clearly with precise bold letters on a note tucked in among the leaves. A shiny gold foiled box with brown satin ribbon sits nearby waiting to be opened.

“This is how much God loved the world: He gave his Son, his one and only Son. And this is why: so that no one need be destroyed; by believing in him, anyone can have a whole and lasting life.

God didn't go to all the trouble of sending his Son merely to point an accusing finger, telling the world how bad it was. He came to help, to put the world right again. Anyone who trusts in him is acquitted; anyone who refuses to trust him has long since been under the death sentence without knowing it. And why? Because of that person's failure to believe in the one-of-a-kind Son of God when introduced to him.” John 3:16-18 (The Message)

Did you receive a Valentine this week? It’s nice to have people pay attention to us. But it’s even more important for us to pay attention to God.

When I am feeling alone, misunderstood, and/or a little sorry for myself: I remember a line from a classic piece of British literature, “You desire the love of others too much…even if the whole world were to turn against you, you would not be alone…”

We are never alone. Even on ‘Single’s Awareness Day’ (aka Valentine’s Day) there is One who loves us more faithfully than any human being is capable of doing. Remembering this can help us to get through any day, any mood, and any circumstance.

“I know what I'm doing. I have it all planned out—plans to take care of you, not abandon you, plans to give you the future you hope for.” Jeremiah 29:11 (The Message)

Written by Mary M. Wilkins

Have you received the gift of God’s love for you? Admit that you cannot be perfect (that you have sinned). Believe that Jesus Christ died for you; thus paying the price for your sin. Confess that He is the Son of God and that you have bowed your heart and mind to Him. Jesus answered, “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.” John 14:6 (NIV)

Quote: from Jane Eyre (1847) by Charlotte Bronte

We Need Each Other

I am constantly reminded how we as believers need each other. God's word tell us in 1Corinithians 12:18-20 "But now God has set the members, each one of them, in the body just as He pleased. And if they were all one member, where would the body be? But now indeed there are many members , yet one body."


More and more each day I have come to appreciate the body of Christ. Each member in having been planted in specific places to be used in specific ways to strengthen the body of Christ. I am thankful for the multiple strengths and giftings of the body of Christ that the Lord uses to mature and grow the body. The Lord knows exactly what each of His sons and daughters need in order to grow and flourish. God is so faithful in making those connections happen to help meet our needs in our spiritual walk with Him.


I have gleaned so much from my brothers and sisters from other areas of the body of Christ. I have gained greater insight and keener awareness of areas of my life that have needed ministered to, that have made me stronger because of my interaction with them. Because of the Lord working through them, it has helped me reach a greater sense of my destiny, because of their willinghness and obedience to share.


I know I cannot do it alone. I need the many giftings of the different parts of the body that I don't have in order for me to move forward in Christ, and to reach my full potential in the Lord.


I am so very thankful that the Lord has set the members, each one of them, in the body just as He pleased. He always knows what is the very best for each of us.

Blessings,
Sandy

Joyful Bad Times

Devotional for 2/15/11

Not only so, but we also rejoice in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope. And hope does not disappoint us, because God has poured out his love into our hearts by the Holy Spirit, whom he has given ...

Romans 5:3–5

Are you going through a difficult period in your life? Do you ever cry out to God asking Him the most sought out question-why? We all have at some point, if we are truly honest with ourselves, questioned God. Our cries include, Why are you allowing this to happen to me? What did I do to deserve this? Many of us can relate to Davids cry, I am worn out from groaning; all night long I flood my bed with weeping and drench my couch with tears. And yet we serve a God who tells us to rejoice in these sufferings. How is it that we can experience a joyful bad time? The thing we need to understand is that joy and happiness are not synonymous. Joy does not depend on our circumstances, happiness does. We can go through the ups and downs of life experiencing the good times and the bad and continue to remain joyful. Why?-because it is not based on circumstance. So what is it that we have to rejoice in during these bad times-when we lose a close loved one; experience worry, shame, or guilt; suffer through a broken relationship; or maybe are battling a physical illness or disease? Where can we find joy when we want our life circumstances fixed or healed yesterday? We find it in the hope that does not disappoint. When we are in the midst of the painful circumstance it is very hard to see the hope, the light at the end of the tunnel. But God promises us that if we stay obedient to Him, the product of suffering is perseverance and character. These attributes produce hope. Allow me to encourage you this day to pray for joy in the midst of the suffering. Ask God to begin to tangibly show you hope. He poured out His love into our hearts by the Holy Spirit, whom He has given us. Because this promise is sealed with the Holy Spirit, we do not have to be ashamed of our sufferings for Him, or of our hope during the bad times. In Christ's love, Joyful Bad Times

Written by Julie Clinton

Shared by Corinne Mustafa

HAPPY VALENTINES DAY!

Beatitudes--Their Significance And Meaning


They are simply stated, but are profound in meaning. They guide. They point. They teach. They show us the values that Christ cares about.The Latin word for blessed is beatus, from which we get the word beatitude.





The beatitudes are found at Matthew 5: 3-12


Blessed are the poor in spirit,

for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.

Blessed are they who mourn,

for they shall be comforted.

Blessed are the meek,

for they shall possess the earth.

Blessed are they who hunger and thirst for justice,

for they shall be satisfied.

Blessed are the merciful,

for they shall obtain mercy.

Blessed are the pure of heart,

for they shall see God.

Blessed are the peacemakers,

for they shall be called sons of God.

Blessed are they who suffer persecution for justice sake,

for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.

Written by Bob Wells
Shared by CF

MERCY

To be merciful is to show great compassion, as when a judge shows leniency to a convicted person. In the case of God's mercy, it is his divine forgiveness for us, the penitent sinners.

We know that we are not perfect, but sometimes it is hard to admit some of those areas where we are guilty of sin. Some things seem so small and even justifiable, like perhaps speeding. We are not following man's laws when we go over the posted speed limit, yet we often tell ourselves that everyone else does it, we are just keeping pace with the others so we don't impede traffic, or that it's OK because they give us a little leeway, I'm being safe and not hurting anyone, etc. But when it comes right down to it, we are not honoring the law. Or maybe we've received too much change back from a clerk yet walked off without saying anything. Or during work hours we have taken personal calls or spent time on things other than work. Or we've turned our back on someone in need because we didn't want to get involved, and justified it by telling ourselves we don't know if they really need help or how to help. Or we've ignored trash on the ground that we could have picked up. Or we've thought improper thoughts, or passed on gossip, or harbored resentment, and on, and on, and on. If I haven't hit one you've done yet, I'm sure you can fill in the blanks for yourself.

There may be more obvious things in our lives, or more glaring sins that we hold onto or have difficulty resisting and changing. There may be things that weigh heavily on our hearts, so much that we are in anguish over them. We may try harder and harder, only to fail again to turn away from them. It may be that we get angry and say hurtful things to someone over and over. Or maybe we have lied about something and just can't figure out how to get untangled from the lies. Or perhaps we are dealing with an addiction, and that can be to many different things such as drugs, alcohol, gambling, sex, or even shopping, eating, etc. Our number one enemy, Satan, likes to throw them back up in our faces and torment us about them.

No matter what the sin is, tiny or gigantic in our eyes, a single incident or repetitive, it still shows that we are human, imperfect. But it does not separate us totally from God. We can come to him every time, no matter what the difficulty is, and no matter how many times it happens, and we ask for his mercy. God is gracious and will forgive us, no matter what it is, if we come to him in faith in Jesus, who has already paid the price for our sins. He does not forgive us because of anything we do - He has already done what is needed. What a glorious Father we have in heaven! We can also ask for God's help to overcome the devil and change our lives. We come to him in humility and repentance, and receive grace and forgiveness - divine mercy. We do our part to make changes in our lives through God's power, and then relax and leave the rest in his hands. Then amazing miracles occur! God is good, all the time.

LORD, do not rebuke me in your anger or discipline me in your wrath. Have mercy on me, LORD, for I am faint; heal me, LORD, for my bones are in agony. My soul is in deep anguish. How long, LORD, how long? Turn, LORD, and deliver me; save me because of your unfailing love. Among the dead no one proclaims your name. Who praises you from the grave? I am worn out from my groaning. All night long I flood my bed with weeping and drench my couch with tears. My eyes grow weak with sorrow; they fail because of all my foes. Away from me, all you who do evil, for the LORD has heard my weeping. The LORD has heard my cry for mercy; the LORD accepts my prayer. All my enemies will be overwhelmed with shame and anguish; they will turn back and suddenly be put to shame. Psalm 6 NIV

Written by Jan Andersen