Let the Spirit Lead

I was doing my dishes last week and began a conversation with Jesus.  Okay, I was really just complaining.  "I can't do it!" I railed, "I'm tired, I don't want to do it anymore, How am I supposed to live like you did!!!!".  He replied "I know how you feel, I was here too and felt everything you do."  That gave me no comfort, to which I replied "No!  Its not the same, you are THE SON OF GOD!"  I closed my ears, and that quickly ended the conversation. 

Its awesome that God gives us a choice, He will never force Himself on us, but can you imagine what it must be like for Him to watch us sometimes?  In my whiny, fleshly fits, I can't hear Him clearly and I find myself weak and without the power and authority I need to live and to show the Glory of God in and to this world.

Thankfully, I'm coming into a revelation that will change the way I think and the very essence of my life.  Jesus was right when He told me He knows everything I feel.  He choose to live here as a man, with all the same limitations and difficulties that we have and experienced far before I ever did. 

Hebrews 4:15-16
¹⁵For we do not have ^(A)a high priest who cannot sympathize with our weaknesses, but One who has been ^(B)tempted in all things as we are, yet ^(C)without sin.
 ¹⁶Therefore let us ^(D)draw near with ^(E)confidence to the throne of grace, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help in time of need.

 Jesus did everything on this earth as a man, not as God.  We were told we would do greater things than HE did, if Jesus had lived His life on earth as God, we would never be able to obtain that status.  If He is our example, and we are to live out our lives like He did, why then, do I still feel like its impossible?  This goes far beyond the miracles He performed.  This is about walking hand in hand with the Holy Spirit.  Completley intuned with the will of Heaven.  Every word, every sermon, every demon cast, every heart healed, was simply because He was living solely by the Spirit.

Bill Johnson says there are two distinctions in Jesus' humanity.  "One, He was not separated from God by sin, and two, He was completely dependant on the power of the Holy Spirit working through Him."  He only did what God called Him to do, He was solely led by the Holy spirit.  We can address the first issue easily.  We are no longer separated by sin because of the sacrifice Jesus has already freely given.  He paid the price, there is nothing left in between us and God.  The Glory of God is inhabited in us.  So the only other question is, "How dependant on the Holy Spirit are we willing to live?"

With this in mind, then why do I feel its impossible?  I'm looking through my flesh, and not through the spirit.  If I plan on doing anything that Jesus was able to accomplish, I must be completely abandoned to the work of the Holy Spirit.  My flesh must be quiet, and God must be the first one I seek.  There is a song by Jesus Culture (Where You Go, I Go), this is the song of my heart.  To go where Jesus leads, just as He was lead.

You've God a Friend in Me

Will I worship and stay faithful when I am tired from climbing this road that is unforgiving and all uphill?  This  question has been lingering in my mind, whispering to me over and over.  Will I love my Lord through anything?  Do I love Him only because I know He will protect me, bless me, and watch over me, will I love Him the same when I feel desolate, alone, and attacked?  Of course, then is when I need my Father most, but it is then when it is hardest to seek Him out.   

It is in this place where I need the "watchmen", others that God has appointed to walk alongside me, to pray on my behalf, friends.  These prayers and encouragements lift us up and support us when we can't stand.  This then leads me to wonder if I do the same for others who are weak.  What type of friend am I?  Am I the encourager that Jesus wants me to be, or am I a friend of Job's? 

Job’s friends started off in good meaning.  They traveled from far away just to be with him, and they were even silent, just sitting in support and grief for 7 days!  Talk about not talking, I don’t think I could have not said something to him for 7 days! 

Chapter 1:11-13  “¹¹ When Job’s three friends, Eliphaz the Temanite, Bildad the Shuhite and Zophar the Naamathite, heard about all the troubles that had come upon him, they set out from their homes and met together by agreement to go and sympathize with him and comfort him. ¹² When they saw him from a distance, they could hardly recognize him; they began to weep aloud, and they tore their robes and sprinkled dust on their heads. ¹³ Then they sat on the ground with him for seven days and seven nights. No one said a word to him, because they saw how great his suffering was.”

I wonder, if in that time, they were just thinking of all the things they should say to him, I wonder if they even consulted God in that time, or took the time to hear what God was really saying.  They start off in Chapter 4 already saying Job must be guilty of something, for the truly innocent don’t befall trouble, and then began their seemingly endless barrage of advice.

Job 4:7

⁷"Remember now, ^(G)who ever perished being innocent?
         Or where were the upright destroyed?

Job 8:4-6

 ³"Does ^(B)God pervert justice?
         Or does the Almighty pervert what is right?
    ⁴"^(C)If your sons sinned against Him,
         Then He delivered them into the power of their transgression.
    ⁵"If you would ^(D)seek God
         And implore the compassion of the Almighty,
    ⁶If you are pure and upright,
         Surely now ^(E)He would rouse Himself for you
         And restore your righteous ^(F)estate.

Job 11:13-16 

¹³"^(O)If you would ^(P)direct your heart right
         And ^(Q)spread out your hand to Him,
    ¹⁴If iniquity is in your hand, ^(R)put it far away,
         And do not let wickedness dwell in your tents;
    ¹⁵"Then, indeed, you could ^(S)lift up your face without moral defect,
         And you would be steadfast and ^(T)not fear.
    ¹⁶"For you would ^(U)forget your trouble,
         As ^(V)waters that have passed by, you would remember it.

  When friends come to us, we are all too often, ready to give advice.  Sadly, I don’t often enough; take the time to even really hear what they are saying before I start sharing my two cents.  Is what I’m saying even relevant or what they need to hear?  Have I even stopped to ask God what He wants to say to them or am I just eager to talk about myself and all of my experiences? Instead of jumping into ideas, theories, or solutions we should be running to prayerful requests for wisdom on their behalf.  Then we should listen, take the time to hear from God, and then speak if we are asked to. 

This is far different from the daily conversations I have with my girlfriends.  And I’m not saying this should be a replacement for all social time, but when we have real problems that need solving, real hurts that need healing, and are in need for relevant answers for our lives, this is the model we should be using, instead of our laundry list of human guidance.  Do you ever find yourself a “self help” column to your friends without consulting God first? Or is it just me?

God has been telling me to be quiet and speak when He asks.  I don’t want to rail at the mouth so much that when God really has a great word, I’m ignored.  I want to spend more time in prayer, then in active chatter.  I want my words to be His, this will bring the truth and encouragement that our lives need, and our souls seek.  I don't want to speak from a wounded heart, but from one filled with life from Jesus, and words straight from the Holy Spirit.

Accusation: The Mother of all Conflict

As mothers, we tend to grade ourselves based on what others can accomplish(idenity is always based on who you are in relation to others), forgetting easily, that we are not the same people, and do not have the same families. I have these grand plans to execute all homemade meals, snacks, soap, ect, be the true frontier woman of the 1800’s. That was, after all, my dream all the years of my youth. But then when I try to put that into practice in our modern world, of public schools, church involvment, and coutless other distractions, (non of them bad mind you); I find myself run too thin, laying on the couch with a bag of ice on my back. Yes, some women are able to accomplish this…. and more. I’m left scratching my head, wondering how? This must mean I’m failing.

I have heard over and over again, that we must do what works for us and our families. Unfortunatley, while getting new ideas that might work for me(everyone wants to find an easier out, and a better way to do anything), it is all too easy to read too much of too many moms we look up to and regard with respect. We tend to only see what they can do, and fail to notice the things they can’t. We tend to judge our weaknesses on the strenghts of others,( setting us up for absolute failure). Who would want to broadcast their faults? I don't like to either. It makes us vulnerable, showing the world our true selves and becoming more honest then is comfortable, and maybe even possibly meaning that we are in fact failing(acording to O or Parents magazine) *gasp!*.

This is a perfect crack in our humanity for the devil to sneak in and begin accusations. I’m telling you this out of a battle has been raging in my own heart for the last month, or maybe even more. I began seeing all of these other moms who, in my mind, did everything right. They must never yell at their kids, look how sweet they are. I’m sure their kids never sas back, they are so sweet too. I’m sure their kids eat all their vegtables at every meal, never argue, never smell, never, never never. You just know they can do all the things you can’t seem to make work in your own home. The devil is prmoting all this propaganda like Nazi Germany. All the while, the people you used to admire are beomming increasingly irritating. After a while you find yourself hating how you feel, and not knowing why or what you can do about it.

At least, when you get to this point, most of us will turn to God. I didn’t go there at the first hint of inferiority. That would have been too easy, or maybe I didn’t even notice it as that, it was mostl likely disguised as humility and then perverted into lowliness and insignificance. This is an easy transition that can happen slowly, or in an instant.  But almost always without us even noticing.

Ephesians 6:11-12 Put on the full armor of God, so that you can take your stand against the devil’s schemes. For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms.

When we go to God, He can then begin to reveal our true heart, and the truth in any situation. He is able to reveal the true enemy and exactly where he has encamped. Accusation can happen in any area of anyone’s life. Work, school, church, in my case, it was mothering. The source of any pride and satisfaction I have in my life. But, the devil doesn’t see everything and can never wage a battle against me when I have God fighting with me. Now to put on that armor…..

Stop Talking, Start Worshiping

There was a point in my life group class last nigh that I became very tired of talking.  It wasn't that I didn't want to teach or learn about God anymore, but it didn't feel like we were getting anywhere, we were just filling time.  I want my every moment to be filled with purpose.  I wish I would have taken this leading to the next step and did what I felt I should have.  Worship. 

I pray to much, I talk to much, I make this relationship with God far more complex than it needs to be.  No words or theories from man will solve or fix my problems, only true worship for my God will quiet my soul and rest my heart and mind. 

So, ironically, here I am again, spouting from my mouth all my human wisdom.  And yet, I really know nothing but the love my God has for me, and even this concept is so abstract to me.  I have no "fix" for our problems in this life, I have no idea how to be the perfect parent, how to fend off troubles in marriage, or how to even balance all the things that come my way everyday. 

But I do know that I desire to know my God deeper, and to search Him out.  I have all the hope and confidence that a human can possibly have, that He will be faithful and quite my soul and He will guide me through everything.  I want so much more of my time to be consulting Him, just gazing on Him, and worshiping Him and reading His Word, instead of the latest wisdom from men(even the latest Christian Books).  I believe that God uses books and other various teachings as well, but I know He will also have exactly what I need exactly when I need it, and I can hear it straight from Him.

I don't want to be caught up in learning from books, sermons, and life groups, that I forget to learn straight from HIS mouth.  He has so much for me if I just take the time to search it out. 

Lord, forgive me for trying to find you in other places, you are always with me, in me, the glory and only goodness I have is You.  Help me to look towards you, and quiet my mouth when I just need to worship.

Biblical Servant Hood -Part 4- Servant vs. Slave

Phil 2:17 But even if I am being poured out like a drink offering on the sacrifice and service coming from your faith, I am glad and rejoice with all of you.

 "Consider the perspective of a slave. A slave sees all of life from the viewpoint of slavery. He does not see himself as possessing the same rights as free men and women. Please understand me, when this slavery is involuntary it is cruel and dehumanizing. When the slavery is freely chosen, however, everything is changed. Voluntary servitude is a great joy.  -Richard Foster:

I do not want to posses the same rights as the world, I have no desire to be drunk, or to lust over other men, or to covet my neighbors possessions.  We, all humans, have all been given free will, and with that, the choice to do what we want with our life.  I have chosen to become a slave to Christ, not to man nor of my flesh.  I have voluntarily sold myself to Jesus, and my only desire is to do as He asks.  I do not look back at my worldly life as a loss, but I instead look at my future with Jesus in great joy, hope, and excitement.  There was nothing for me in my old life, but I know that while serving Jesus He will treat me like royalty, even as I am a slave.

"The image of slavery may be difficult for us, but it was not hard for the apostle Paul. He frequently boasted of his slavery to Christ, making lavish use of the first-century concept of the "love slave" (that is, the slave who, out of love, has freely chosen to remain a slave). We do our best to soften Paul's language by translating the word "slave" as "servant." But whatever word we decide to use, let us be certain that we understand that Paul meant he had freely given up his rights." -unknown

It is hard for us to look at the term slave beyond our 1700's history in the United States, but there is more to being a slave than beatings and mistreatment.  The type of slavery we, as Christians, sell ourselves into is one of love.  We want to be slaves to a master that treats us so well.  We are always protected, cared for, and given much more than we deserve.  Who wouldn't want to be sold out to that?

Acts 20:24 However, I consider my life worth nothing to me; my only aim is to finish the race and complete the task the Lord Jesus has given me—the task of testifying to the good news of God’s grace.

Our life apart from God will give us nothing to satisfy our souls, therefore, it is worth nothing.  Desire brings value, and if we no longer desire things of this world, it is then worth nothing to us.  Instead we only want to do what pleases our father.    Its another perfect example of being purposed, our aim should be to complete the task Jesus gives us.  John 8:29 says "I do only those things which please the father".  This is straight from Jesus' mouth, we should follow His example to want to please His Father, and to only do what He has requested us to.

  "Therefore, the fear that we will be taken advantage of and stepped on is justified. That is exactly what may happen. But who can hurt someone who has freely chosen to be stepped on? Thomas A. Kempis instructs us to be 'so subject that all men may go over thee and tread upon thee as upon mire of the street.'" -unknown

Now, with the vision of slavery as mistreatment, it is easy for us to distort our position as slaves for Christ.  He does not call for us to be taken advantage of, for you to feel like you must answer every cry and call for help.  There is an army of believers in the church who must all take their part and share the burden.  God may call you to serve in one area, and not in another, and that is okay.  As  long as you are serving as it pleases Him.  This is not an excuse for anyone to tell you that you must serve until you have nothing left.

On the other hand, our definition of "being taken advantage of" may be completely different than someone else's.  I have the sweetest older couple that lives next door to me.  My husband and I love to help them when we can, we will spontaneously mow, rake, and remove snow for them, with no desire for payment.  She feels like she is taking advantage of us, and will offer money and almost beg for us to take it.  Sometimes we do, just so she can sleep at night, but to us, this is a free act of kindness. In this instance, I am willing to be taken advantage of because I find so much joy in doing so. 

With everything in life there is a balance.  God is the only one who can direct and guide your service.  As long as you are asking Him where He wants you to go, and what He wants you to do, you will be a Biblical Servant.

Happy Serving.

Biblical Servant Hood -Part 3- Serving With Purpose

  "A natural and understandable hesitancy accompanies any serious discussion of service. The hesitancy is prudent since it is wise to count the cost before plunging headlong into any Discipline. We experience a fear that comes out something like this: "If I do that, people will take advantage of me; they will walk all over me." -Richard Foster

 "Right here we must see the difference between choosing to serve and choosing to be a servant. When we chose to serve, we are still in charge. We decide whom we will serve and when we will serve. And if we are in charge, we will worry a great deal about anyone stepping on us, or that are taking charge over us. But when we choose to be a servant, we give up the right to be in charge. There is great freedom in this. If we voluntarily choose to be taken advantage of, then we cannot be manipulated. When we choose to be a servant, we surrender the right to decide when we will serve. We become available and vulnerable.    unknown

There is a difference in being a servant and choosing to serve.  We must not pick and choose, but instead let God lead us in our acts.  But I do not believe that by being a servant, we should line up to voluntarily to be taken advantage of(more on this concept in part 4).  Our serving must be with purpose.  We need to hear God’s call in every area and in everything we do.  Yes, we surrender all our rights to choose what we do and when we do it, but we need to make sure it is God, and not guilt that is driving us to serve.

I’ve seen countless members of the church fall away because of pure exhaustion, feeling like they must answer EVERY call they receive.  This is not purposed servant hood, smart serving, or required by God.  We need to remember that we must rest and God expects it.

Rom 15:1-3 As for us who are strong, our duty is to bear with the weaknesses of those who are not strong, and not seek our own pleasure. Let each of us endeavor to please his fellow Christian, aiming at a blessing calculated to build him up. For even the Christ did not seek His own pleasure...

Gal 5:13...But through love be servants of one another.

Gal 6:9-10 Let us not grow tired of doing good, for, unless we throw in our hand, the ultimate harvest is assured. Let us then do good to all men as opportunity offers, especially to those who belong to the Christian household.

Here in Romans it even says we must be calculated, to make sure that everything we do is for building up others.  We are not aimlessly serving at every whim, but we are serving to build each other's strength and spirits.  We will undoubtedly become tired, we are spiritual creatures with physical limits, but if at the point of exhaustion we throw in the towel, then all the work we have done is lost, and you will not see the rewards for all the hard work you have already exerted.  That is why we are serving each other and why it is so important that we do.  We need to be willing to help out the tired, to encourage and strengthen. 

In Church bodies it is common that a small percentage of people do all of the work.  This will make for tired workers, who can easily become burnt out and may even begin to serve out of obligation instead of love.  If all of us began to serve as Christ as instructed, just imagine how much more we could accomplish, and we would never tire!

Biblical Servant Hood Part 2 -Serving Christ in Love

 "I belong to Jesus. He must have the right to use me without consulting me." -Mother Teresa

Well, that about sums it up doesn't it?  We must be willing to serve when and where Jesus asks us to, He doesn't need to ask us what is on our agenda for the day, or what we'd rather do.  He already knows our strengths and our weaknesses, He knows what we can and can not handle, but do we?

Hebrews 12:28 Let us therefore, receiving a kingdom that is firm and stable and cannot be shaken, offer to God pleasing service and acceptable worship, with modesty and pious care and godly fear and awe

Rom 12:9-13 Love must be completely sincere. Hate what is evil, hold on to what is good. Love one another warmly as brothers in Christ, and be eager to show respect for one another. Work hard, and do not be lazy. Serve the Lord with a heart full of devotion. Let your hope keep you joyful, be patient in your troubles, and pray at all times. Share your belongings with your needy brothers, and open your homes to strangers.

We should serve out of a love for Christ.  God wants lovers who serve from a heart that overflows, not out of resentful obligation or fear that He will strike us down if we don’t obey.  We must act out of love not religion.  It is not by acts that we are saved, but only by grace.  Nothing we do will grow His love for us anymore than what He has already offered.  Serving should strictly come from a desire to please God. 

Proverbs 15:17   ¹⁷Better is a dish of vegetables where love is
                        Than a fattened ox served with hatred.

This may seem like a strange verse to pair with serving, but everything comes down to intentions.  God doesn’t want us to serve out of a fearful obligation, or out of a guilty conscience, He wants us to serve out of a desire and passion to treat the others the way he treats us.  “Lovers” will out serve “doers” every time.  I'd much rather serve with "ordinary" people who love, then a "fascinating" person with a horrible attitude.

Last Sunday  my Pastor said "some of the most miserable people he knew were the ones who felt guilty about not giving, but resentful when they did."  This can be the same way with serving.  If you are feeling resentful about something you’ve been asked to do, its better to not do it at all.  What kind of service will that bring, will that really bless anyone?  Most likely not, you are a warm body filling a need out of obligation.  That isn't servant hood.

There is a man at my church named Dennis.  Dennis is the epetemy of loving service.  He goes where they tell him, and always with a smile.  It’s far more than I can say for myself.  If I’m unhappy with an arrangement, I will, unfortunately, let it show.  If I didn’t want to do it, or if God hasn’t given me the okay, or the purpose for it, then I shouldn’t do it out of the flesh or out of guilt.  Now, this isn’t an excuse to never serve our church body.  It would be easy to say “That’s not my gift”, or “God hasn’t called me there.”  We can over use those excuses.

Galatians 5:13-14  ¹³For you were called to freedom, brethren; only do not turn your freedom into an opportunity for the flesh, but through love serve one another.  ¹⁴For the whole Law is fulfilled in one word, in the statement, “YOU SHALL LOVE YOUR NEIGHBOR AS YOURSELF."