Peace in the Midst of Suffering
We can have inner peace through suffering, which makes no human sense, when our minds are focused on God and His Word.
We can use trying situations as an opportunity to teach our kids the solid foundation of peace, personally experiencing what they have heard about in Scripture. We can role-model to them calm confidence, and being doers of the Word, not hearers only. Modeling how not to be consumed with worry, doubt, and fear and thereby making them scared. We all have a chance to teach them the opposite–we all can choose a different path and peace. Thank you, Lord.
“.. and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.8 Finally, brethren, whatever things are true, whatever things are noble, whatever things are just, whatever things are pure, whatever things are lovely, whatever things are of good report, if there is any virtue and if there is anything praiseworthy—meditate on these things. 9 The things which you learned and received and heard and saw in me, these do, and the God of peace will be with you.
Philippians 4:7-9
The Bible directs us to certain responses during times of suffering.
God is at work in our character through trials. My family saw the loss of my husband’s job as a real life opportunity to apply Scripture, showing how to respond in word, action, and mind. Through the unknown we are to persevere, to endure, press on, fight, looking for how the Lord wants to change and grow us.
Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything. James 1:2-4
The outcome is already known by God.
We can confidently walk through trials knowing that one of the sweetest blessings of all is a deeper, more intimate walk with the Lord, whom we KNOW is real.
The real treasures in life: knowing Christ in an intimate way.
Look at Scriptures with the word treasure in them. Treasure means a deep walk with the Lord, and the richness of His character we personally experience as He meets our every need!
“…I have treasured the words of His mouth more than my necessary food” Job 12:12
“..Your word I have treasured in my heart, That I may not sin against You.” Psalm 119:11
The end of the story is actually insignificant – God provided for all of our needs and another job for my husband in His timing, but the journey of our hearts is the real story. I hope you view your trial this way. I hope you will put off any signs of worry and put on trust.
Resting in His Sovereignty
The tendency for all of us want to control things is great. When we experience situations we cannot fix, make sense of, see any sign of relief from, or see any possible positive outcome from, we are called to trust in God’s sovereignty. It is God, our Heavenly Father, who will give us the inner peace needed to confidently, even if painfully, endure with the right attitude, knowing that He is at work for His glory and for our good.
When my husband lost his job of nineteen years, we gathered together our six then middle-school age and younger children, explained what had happened and that our trust was in God. We started a prayer journal to record the faithfulness promised in Scripture. We knew this was not so much about his job as what God wanted to do in our lives. We wanted our children to recognize His Word is true as we together learn what God is teaching us:
God is sovereign.
This means that He allowed this particular event to happen. He could have said no to it. He could have used any other crisis or situation, but He allowed this particular situation. He already knows the outcome, and we can confidently walk through it – even the unknown – knowing that it is for our good and His glory.
In all this you greatly rejoice, though now for a little while you may have had to suffer grief in all kinds of trials. These have come so that the proven genuineness of your faith—of greater worth than gold, which perishes even though refined by fire—may result in praise, glory and honor when Jesus Christ is revealed. 1 Peter 1:6-7
Christians will go through suffering.
Suffering is promised, so expect it. We saw this as an opportunity to teach our children that this is part of our walk. We want them to know how to handle rough times, not with anxiety, walking around on egg-shells and feeling the pressures of finances because they hear their parents worrying. Instead we hope they will look through eyes that trust God, fully expecting Him to meet our needs in His timing and to work in our lives in the process.
Dear friends, do not be surprised at the fiery ordeal that has come on you to test you, as though something strange were happening to you. But rejoice inasmuch as you participate in the sufferings of Christ, so that you may be overjoyed when his glory is revealed. I Peter 4:12-13
God will provide.
We can leave every fear or concern with Him, casting our fears on Him, knowing He cares and will provide for us. We need to continuously put off worry/ put on trust, as discussed yesterday. My husband and I saw this trial as a way to show our children God’s faithfulness and to teach them to walk confidently through challenging times.
(Matthew 6:25-33)
Prayers for a job were not answered overnight, nor exactly as we first envisioned. Over the course of time, my husband decided to open his own firm–which he still has today. My sons and daughters saw their father walk into the unknown, not being ruled by fear or bitterness. He humbly sought the Lord for direction and trusted in God’s sovereignty. As my children enter adulthood, I pray the power of God’s sovereignty and faithfulness in our family will build and encourage their faith.
Put off Worry / Put on Trust
Did you know that TRUSTING IN GOD in all circumstances is the third most emphasized character trait in the New Testament, behind the qualities of love and humility? This certainly implies that we all struggle with loving, being humble, and wanting to be in control of situations so that we have no need to trust anyone or anything.
Some opposites of trust are worry, fear, anxiety, frustration, and even panic over not being able to fix, change, or control whatever is weighing on our minds. I love reading Scripture with the question in mind: “What does God tell me to PUT OFF, so that in its place I can PUT ON trust?” It’s the way of thinking around my home these days.
Here’s what I found.
Proverbs 3:5-6 Trust in the Lord with all your heart, lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will direct your paths.
PUT OFF: my own reasoning and trusting in myself
PUT ON: trusting in the Lord
Jeremiah 32:27 “…I am the Lord, the God of all mankind. Is anything too hard for me?”
PUT OFF: doubting
PUT ON: confidence in God
Psalm 91:1-2 He who dwells in the shelter of the Most High will rest in the shadow of the Almighty. I will say of the Lord, “He is my refuge and my fortress, my God, in whom I trust.”
PUT OFF: dwelling in my own fears, being along, being consumed with my situation
PUT ON: dwelling in His Word, His truths, His character, communing with Him all day long, digging in deep and seeing the truth of Him being our shelter.
Isaiah 41:10 Do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.
PUT OFF: fear, being overwhelmed, worry
PUT ON: confidence in knowing God is with me and He will personally strengthen , help, and uphold me.
Joshua 1:9 Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be terrified; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.
PUT OFF: being terrified, discouragement, feeling alone
PUT ON: strength and courage, directly available through Holy Spirit, knowing God is with me at all times, and will equip me for whatever the situation needs
Matthew 6:25,33 Therefore I say to you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or what you will drink; nor about your body, what you will put on. For your heavenly Father knows that you need all these things….But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you.
PUT OFF: worry about life and needs being met
PUT ON: trust in God for my provisions and seek Him for my priorities so that my responses line up with Scripture
Join me tomorrow as we continue talking about putting off worry and putting on trust. I will be sharing a time of personal crisis when the Lord revealed His sovereignty and peace.
Do you have a testimony of putting off worry and putting on trust you would like to share?
False Hope or Real Hope?
“A horse is a false hope for victory;
Nor does it deliver anyone by its great strength.”
Psalm 33:17 NASB
Horses are known for their strength and speed. In 1973 a thoroughbred horse named Secretariat became a household word. His winning streak was tremendous; making him the first U. S. Triple Crown champion in 25 years. Imagine the surprise of many who placed their bets at the Kentucky Derby on other horses hoping for victory only to have Secretariat win and set a record. Daily, people place their bets on false hope. They place their hope in people, careers, family, government, money, success and their ability to be in control. A false hope means going contrary to God’s Law and leads an individual away from the only source where victory can be found—in Christ.
Many times it is hard to know if something is false or real. We are living in a world filled with deception and false religions. Jesus said, “I am the way, the truth, and the life, no one comes to the Father, but through Me (John 14:6).” Simple and to the point—there is but one way. Because He is the truth, through the indwelling power of the Holy Spirit, you will be able to discern what is false and what is true. God’s Word is the plumb line.
One additional word of encouragement from the Psalmist: “Behold, the eye of the Lord is on those who fear Him, on those who hope for His lovingkindness,” (Psalm 33:18 NASB). Charles Spurgeon writes, “Those who fear God need not fear anything else. Let them fix their eye of faith on Him and His eye of love will always rest on them.”
Would you rather have a false hope or the real hope? ‘Not by might nor by power, but by My Spirit,’ says the LORD of hosts (Zechariah 4:6). Real hope found in Christ is the true victory!
The Coupon of All Coupons
April 11, 2012 : Filed under Mentoring, Sharing the Gospel, Soul Food
I’m a couponing newbie. I don’t know much about getting the most value from coupons. In fact, several weeks ago, I bought almost $100 in groceries and saved only two dollars and some change. I have a feeling that I’ll be learning soon enough—my husband and I are adopting a sibling group of five.
I do know one thing about coupons: They are redeemable—but only if I take specific steps. When I find something I want, I can take the coupon into a grocery store within a specific time frame and redeem it for the specific item.
Couponing is a lot like salvation.
Jesus alone was able to take the specific steps needed to redeem us—to buy back our souls from the bondage of sin and death. He died on the cross more than 2,000 years ago because He loved us so much, He wanted us to spend eternity with Him.
Jesus redeemed us. He exchanged His blood for our souls.
You can’t beat that deal!
O my soul, bless God, don’t forget a single blessing! He forgives your sins – every one. He heals your diseases – every one. He redeems you from hell – saves your life! He crowns you with love and mercy – a paradise crown. (Psalm 103:2-4, The Message)
Daphne Tarango
The Greatest Hope
“Welcome to the Greatest Show on Earth,” the Ringmaster for the Ringling Brothers/Barnum & Bailey Circus announces as the curtains open wide. Anticipation and excitement fills the air. The music plays loudly and the parade beings. The procession consists of clowns, trapeze artists, elephants, beautiful horses, dogs, lions, and tigers. The audience’s eyes are eventually drawn to the inner circle where the show begins.
Many people would say the circus is not necessarily the place to find the greatest show on earth. Perhaps the slogan would best fit a sunset over the Mediterranean Sea or the display of the Aurora Lights in the northern hemisphere. Many times the greatest show on earth has been found in my own back yard as I watch my children or grandchildren play. God has graciously granted individuals, through His creation, the ability to daily witness The Greatest Show on Earth.
But have you ever thought about The Greatest Hope? Many people know and have memorized John 3:16, “For God so loved the world, that He gave his only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish, but have eternal life.” Many people consider this the greatest verse when we look at biblical hope. God provided a way, through grace, for mankind to know The Greatest Hope. At Easter we remember all Christ did for us on the cross—the suffering, the agony. The blood shed for man’s sin-the supreme sacrifice. Many times at Easter we place the emphasis on Jesus’ death on the cross, but as Paul writes in the book of Romans, the greater emphasis is to be on the resurrection (Romans 1:4). This is what sets true Christianity apart from any other religion. Furthermore, Peter wrote, “Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who according to His great mercy has caused us to be born again to a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead,” (1 Peter 1:3).
Easter morning produced both The Greatest Show on Earth and The Greatest Hope. Jesus said, to her, “I am the resurrection and the life; he who believes in Me will live even if he dies, and everyone who lives and believes in Me will never die. Do you believe this (John 11:25-26)?” Hallelujah what a Savior!
Bible Retreat, Part 2
Finding the time to attend a Bible retreat might seem impossible for any busy mom. However, finding time to dig deeper into God’s Word is a must. So what’s a mom to do? Yesterday, I shared steps 1 and 2 to scheduling a Bible retreat right in your own home? If you plan ahead, you may be surprised at how easy it will be to find those times of solitude.
Step 3
Prepare activities for the kids to do that will keep them busy for large blocks of time so that you can have big chunks of quiet time. Purchasing new and inexpensive puzzles and non-toxic puzzle glue is one great idea. By the end of the weekend, you will probably have a whole gallery of puzzle art. Renting movies that are kid-friendly and have been recently released is another great idea. If your kids have never seen the movie, they will probably sit through the entire two-hour show. Be sure you have popcorn and juice boxes ready for movie snacking. Also make sure your husband will be home during the weekend that you select for your Bible retreat. Purchase a new kickball and sidewalk chalk and let the kids have fun with dad outdoors.
Step 4
Plan what scripture you will study during your Bible retreat. I’m currently working through the book of Ephesians. Over the summer, I studied 1 John. There are so many wonderful books of the Bible, so this should be the easiest step. Get your highlighters and journal ready. Purchase a special coffee blend to make your early morning quiet time a little extra special. Treat yourself to a few of your favorite snacks and canned soft drinks. Splurge on a fragrant candle that will create a calming atmosphere. Purchase a few new songs by your favorite Christian artists from iTunes and buy some bath salts. Build in at least one relaxing soak in the tub before the weekend is over.
It is my prayer that you will give yourself permission to go on a Bible Retreat – even if it is your own home. Plan ahead and the weekend should run smoothly and be very rewarding as you dive into God’s Word and get to know Him better.
Kathy Hutto
Bible Retreat, Part 1
Finding the time to attend a Bible retreat might seem impossible for any busy mom. However, finding time to dig deeper into God’s Word is a must. So what’s a mom to do? Why not schedule a Bible retreat right in your own home? If you plan ahead, you may be surprised at how easy it will be to find those times of solitude. Follow the steps below to prepare for and execute your own private weekend Bible retreat.
Step 1
Prepare yourself for the Bible study. Decide what resources you will be using. I recommend making the weekend about hearing from God through His Word. While using commentaries and devotional books are useful, you need to find out what the Lord is telling you specifically through His Word. That being said, you need to know how best to study the Scriptures. I recommend Dr. Rob Plummer’s book entitled, 40 Questions About Interpreting the Bible. Reading this book ahead of time can prepare you with the tools needed to make your Bible retreat a success. I attended a workshop by Dr. Plummer recently and learned so much about Bible interpretation. Three main highlights he shared with us were that we should: ride the bull, make a channel first, and meditate. Let me explain.
When we read a Scripture, it’s easy to see a face value kind of meaning. For example, with the story of Jesus washing the disciples’ feet, we can instantly see the lesson of serving others. But, when we get on the bull and keep riding it–even if it boots us off of the topic we were on–we can sometimes find the underlying reason the author (inspired by God) wrote that Scripture. Further reading and study bring us to the realization that John was trying to get us to understand that the foot-washing was an act of love toward the disciples. It is that kind of love that He wants us to have for other people, which will cause us to serve them. So ride the bull….
We need to start with the original meaning of the text and create a channel with that first. Then, we can let implications flow from that original meaning. For example, Matthew 28:19, says, “Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost.” It doesn’t say give to your church’s mission program or go on a mission trip in the summer, but those implications flow from the original meaning the author intended. So make a channel first…
Meditating means just letting it soak down–reading it, writing it, and thinking on it. Think on the verses while you wash the dishes, do laundry, while in the car, etc.–soak it in. So meditate on His Word…
Step 2
As moms, we know that preparing meals three times a day and a couple of snacks in between takes up a good bit of our time each day. Plan ahead for your in-house Bible retreat by making sure you have done your grocery shopping before the weekend arrives. Stock the snack shelf with things like Rice Krispy Treats and cookies that you prepare in advance and store in sandwich bags. Purchase fruits such as bananas the kids can grab when they need a snack. For lunch, create your own version of Lunchables. Have crackers, meats, and cheeses available, as well as bags of chips or pretzels. For supper, create Freezer Meals ahead so that supper is easily taken care of. You may also ask your husband to take the kids out for pizza one night of the weekend.
On Friday I will be back to share steps 3 and 4 to planning a Bible retreat! If you have any questions, or suggestions, please share!
Kathy Hutto
Crafted by God
I heard a pastor during his sermon tell the story of a young boy who worked hard to make a beautiful sail boat. He handcrafted the wood to make it smooth and watertight. He painted the boat with his favorite colors and made a sail for the little vessel then took it to a community lake to enjoy an afternoon of fun. The boat floated beautifully on the top of the lake’s surface. As the gentle wind blew, the boat got further and further away from shore. In his pride and joy of seeing the boat do what it was created to do, the boy allowed the boat to sail farther out than he could reach and the boat was lost to the gentle breeze and the open lake. With a downcast spirit the young boy returned home to tell his parents that he had lost his treasured boat.
A few weeks later the young lad was walking by a toy store window. He could hardly believe his eyes for there was his boat. It was the hull that his hands had formed. It was the same paint that he had brushed on and the sail was just as he had prepared. The boy ran to the storeowner and said, “That is my boat, I made it.” The storeowner said, “No son, that is not your boat, I bought that boat from a man who brought it in. Now it is for sale, son, and you can buy that boat.” The little boy was heartbroken, but with new resolve he headed out the door. For the next week he worked very hard to raise enough money to purchase the boat. He took his hard-earned money to the toy store. He laid the money down and purchased his boat back. As the boy left the store the owner heard him say, “You are twice mine now. I made you and I bought you. You are mine.”
Just as the boy had made the boat, God has crafted us just as He desired with just the right eye and hair color. He has made our bodies with the form and features He desired and He has allowed us to have freedom. God also paid a heavy price to buy us back from the peril that sin had placed upon us. God too says to us, “You are twice mine now. I made you and I bought you back. You are mine.”
Let Your Light Shine
