Powerful people were seeking to impact one of my staff members unfairly.  Though I represented my employee righteously, upper management had the power to make the wrong decision.  I was at the mercy of earthly power. The only thing I could do was pray ~ and pray is what I did with a very heavy heart.

            As I lay awake wrestling with the details of this problem, something amazing came over me. An overwhelming awareness and suddenly I knew. 

            While men may sit in positions of power, I was the one Jesus endowed with His authority. 

            As this revelation soaked into my spirit I became cloaked in an otherworldly knowledge that I was the one with the ultimate power in this situation. I quickly sat up and spoke over the events that were swirling around my life.

            “I am the authority and I proclaim that no dark weapon formed against me or my staff shall prosper. Though people in high ranks seek to make the wrong decision, I forbid it. For I am a child of the most high God and I am calling truth to invade this situation. Come forth righteousness and make straight the crooked paths.” 

            In those wonderful moments I knew heaven heard me. In those wonderful moments I knew I had birthed the right outcome. 

            I returned to work. It didn’t take long, however, for the heat of my trial to spike. I found myself walking through a furnace of more complications, more difficulties to overcome. I became fearful. My faith began to waver. Was my proclamation effective? Will righteousness prevail?  My thoughts took me to the land of uncertainty. Still, I held onto the truth I proclaimed though I struggled with doubt.

            Friday morning…I was in my prayer time when the Lord came to me. 

            “Why did you allow moments of defeat when I revealed to you that you are the authority?” 

            I had disappointed my Father. I should have walked through my circumstances with more certainty. Foolish heart.

            I both love and hate moments when God questions me. His words expose truth that reveal His heart to me in more intimate ways, but His words also shine a light on my shortcomings.       

            That day I drove to work with a calm assurance that I was in God’s will and all would be well. By the close of the day the whole situation had turned. The powerful words I had spoken ultimately dismantled a dark plan. This situation taught me that while men may have prestigious titles and earthly power, authentic power comes from heaven above.  

            Now Jesus stood before the governor. And the governor asked Him saying, “Are You the King of the Jews?” Jesus said to him, “It is as you say.”                     Matthew 27:11

            On Good Friday the Lord solidified this lesson in my heart more powerfully.  It happened while I was watching the following passages come to life in the Passion of the Christ.

            Then the soldiers of the governor took Jesus into the Praetorium and gathered the whole garrison around Him. And they stripped Him and put a scarlet robe on Him. When they had twisted a crown of thorns, they put it on His head, and a reed in His right hand. And they bowed the knee before Him and mocked Him, saying, “Hail, King of the Jews!”  Matthew 27:27-29                                                                                 

            And those who passed by blasphemed Him, wagging their heads and saying, “You who destroy the temple and build it in three days, save Yourself! If You are the Son of God, come down from the cross.” Likewise the chief priests also, mocking with the scribes and elders, said, “He saved others; Himself He cannot save. If He is the King of Israel, let Him now come down from the cross, and we will believe Him. He trusted in God; let Him deliver Him now if He will have Him; for He said, ‘I am the Son of God.’” Matthew 27:39-43

             The ancient Sanhedrin and Pharisees were powerful men. On the surface they appeared to possess all authority, but those who unlawfully executed Jesus didn’t hold the ultimate power. Jesus laid down His power and allowed them to take His life. Regardless of the dark picture the cross painted, Jesus was and is the high King of heaven. All authority is His ~ even when nailed to a cross. 

            As children of God, we have been endowed by Jesus’ authority. We must ask the Holy Spirit to continually cloak us in this knowledge. Lying down in defeat is not an option for the redeemed. Jesus has overcome the world and we have been swept up in His victory!

            Are you facing difficult circumstances? Are you stumbling under the weight of your situation? Do you feel defeated? Child of God, stand to your feet! Pick your head up. Speak over your circumstances and breath life into the darkness. All authority has been handed to you from heaven above!

            All authority comes from God, and those in positions of authority have been placed there by God.  Romans 13:1                                                                                    

            And He said to me, “Son of man, can these bones live?” So I answered, “O Lord God, You know.” Again He said to me, “Prophesy to these bones, and say to them, ‘O dry bones, hear the word of the Lord!” So I prophesied as I was commanded and as I prophesied, there was a noise and suddenly a rattling; and the bones came together, bone to bone.” Ezekiel 37:3-4,7                                                                                  

            “I will give you the keys of the kingdom of heaven, and whatever you bind on earth shall have been bound in heaven, and whatever you loose on earth shall have been loosed in heaven.”   Matthew 16:19                                                                 

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            That fencetells stories. It speaks of neutral ground. It offers a plot of land where loyalty is necessary only to self. The fence advertises a sanctuary city untouched by God’s statutes or Satan’s existence. At the fence time presumably stands still while eternal decisions are being made. Countless people for countless reasons make their home along the rails of the fence. They believe in the safety and the security that the fence offers. But in reality, the ground they stand on is sinking sand as they walk straight into the mouth of hell. 

                                                That fence is a liar!

            Obviously this is a warning to unbelievers, but lately I’m pondering that fence. After meditating on this powerful story, I’ve come to realize that I face that fence everyday. As a believer I’m tempted to straddle the fence on matters that I would consider less impactful ~ matters that I feel won’t have a diminishing effect on my walk with God. You know, the minor offenses that Jesus can easily sweep under His blood. Profanity in an angry moment, indulging in a song that the Holy Spirit doesn’t like, a conversation that I don’t need to be involved in, the tone in my voice, the intent of my heart, judging in God’s place…the list goes on and on. These are the moments when conviction rises in my heart and shows me that my wandering feet have found their way to the fence. Lord, I don’t want to linger in the place of sin. I want to be right where I belong…at Your feet. 

            There are three accounts in the Bible of one woman who knew precisely where she belonged. This lady was notorious for making her home at Jesus’ feet. Her name was Mary and her loyalty was unwavering. Take a look at three excerpts from God’s Word.

Dinner with Lazarus and his sisters

As Jesus and His disciples continued on their way to Jerusalem, they came to a certain village where a woman named Martha welcomed him into her home. Her sister, Mary sat at the Lord’s feet, listening to what he taught.” Luke 10:38-39

At Lazarus’ death

Then she called Mary aside from the mourners and told her, “The Teacher is here and wants to see you.” When Mary arrived and saw Jesus, she fell at his feet.” John 11:28,32 

Jesus anointed with oil

A dinner was prepared in Jesus’ honor. Martha served, and Lazarus was among those who ate with him. Then Mary took a twelve-ounce jar of expensive perfume made from essence of nard and she anointed Jesus’ feet with it, wiping His feet with her hair. The house was filled with the fragrance.     John 12:2-3

            In all three accounts Mary humbly positioned herself at Jesus’ feet with a deep-seeded respect and enduring love for her Savior. She was passionate about her relationship with Jesus. She savored His presence as she sat under the rain of His life-giving words. Her love for Jesus transformed her into an extravagant giver. Even in moments of pain and disillusioned thoughts, Mary knew who to run to. She knew precisely where she belonged. Mary was all in ~ no fence straddling!

            A passionate child of God is an inspiration. There is no wavering in their loyalty. They live their lives fully committed to Jesus. A “yes” is ever on their lips when the Lord comes calling.  

            Make us people like that, Father God. Show us how to not only stay away from the fence, but give us hearts that beat like Mary’s heart. May we pour ourselves into loving You the way You want to be loved. May You find us at your feet in humble adoration. And as we pursue You more fully, invade our hearts with Your presence. Let us continually taste heaven while we are locked in these earthen vessels that we may hunger for you more and more.  Amen.

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She said to the king, “The report I heard in my own country about your achievements and your wisdom is true. But I did not believe these things until I came and saw with my own eyes. Indeed, not even half was told me; in wisdom and wealth you have far exceeded the report I heard. How happy your people must be! How happy your officials, who continually stand before you and hear your wisdom! Praise be to the Lord your God, who has delighted in you and placed you on the throne of Israel! Because the Lord’s eternal love for Israel, he has made you king to maintain justice and righteousness.” 

                                                                                               I Kings 10:1-9

            Today’s text transports us to witness the story of a powerful woman whose stature and esteem largely impacted the eastern world. Her reputation created such an impact that she remains notorious to this day. 

            The queen’s priority was to meet the infamous King Solomon, a man with the reputation of being wealthy, wise, and righteous. So she made the journey to Israel with an elaborate caravan of servants. Can you imagine the queen stepping onto the stone pavement of the warm tropical courtyard at Solomon’s doorstep? The beauty that met her gaze powerfully engaged her senses. She was ushered through the entrance of a grand palace adorned with only the finest of riches. 

            Solomon’s home was unapologetically beautiful. Its elegant embellishments could only be purchased through extravagant wealth. Scripture says that the house Solomon built, the manner he handled his staff, and his offerings at the temple left the queen of Sheba overwhelmed. 

            Solomon and the queen of Sheba were both adorned in royalty. But Solomon possessed something the queen did not. He was dressed in wisdom and excellence – something that can only come from a life lived in obedience under the watchful eyes of God. Let’s issue the queen a challenge.

            Pull up a chair, your Highness, and listen as the wisdom of God drips from the lips of the wisest man in the Middle East. Pose the hardest questions you can muster and watch as he serves answers that never passed through your mind, a mind you once thought so enlightened and so powerful, only to be proven feeble and inept in comparison.

            Now let’s take a step back and look at the queen of Sheba’s transformation as scripture maps it out. It’s amazing!

            From afar the queen heard the reports of Solomon (vs 1). So she made her way to Israel (vs. 2). When she arrived she witnessed with her own eyes (vs 7). As she listened to King Solomon she was enlightened (vs 6). When she was enlightened she praised the Lord (vs 9). Isn’t that what powerful witnessing is all about? They hear. They come. They see. They receive. And it all began with an excellent report. 

            The season has come for Faith Assembly to create a buzz in Hazleton, PA. As we ready ourselves to step into 2019 let us create an excellent report for the community around us. God is calling us to renovate His house, a house that should rightfully reflect His splendor and majesty. He deserves nothing less than the best. Just as the queen of Sheba was transformed by the sights and sounds of her experience in King Solomon’s courts so should every wandering soul who crosses Faith’s threshold. If the cost of a building renovation paves the way for a beggar to find an altar, then pave the way we must!

            And David said, “Solomon my son is young and tender, and the house that is to be built for the Lord must be exceedingly magnificent, of fame and of glory throughout all countries. I will therefore now make preparations for it.” So David prepared abundantly before his death.”                                                                                  I Chronicles 22:5

            In the right hands, earthly resources do amazing things for the kingdom of heaven. And the fruit of great resources emulates our Father’s wondrous character. His goal is to impact the lost however He chooses. His is a standard of excellence and ours is the responsibility to deliver that excellence. Let us remember that we are ambassadors of the One who uses the finest gold to pave the streets of heaven only for horses to tread underfoot.

            Here is a finishing thought. Please tuck this in your heart and allow it to marinade in your spirit. We are in a transitional season. What we do right now will ripple to the next generation. Just as the queen of Sheba’s impact on the ancient world echoes to this day, let us reach for excellence knowing we are planting seeds that will impact generations to come. We will never know what God will do with the work of our hands but I am certain it is surely beyond our wildest dreams or expectations.

            “What no eye has seen, what no ear has heard, and what no human mind has conceived” – the things God has prepared for those who love him –“ I Corinthians 2:9                     

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            It was a fruitless night at sea. The morning light brought weary fishermen and empty nets. It must have been hard to make a living as an ancient fisherman on the Sea of Galilee. 

            This body of water was very unpredictable. The surrounding mountains cradled the lake on all sides creating the perfect environment for changing wind patterns. A storm could erupt at any moment without any warning. 

            After a night of wrestling with the temperamental waters the men were locking down their boats. As they were putting their gear away, an unwanted request came from the carpenter.

            “Launch out into the deep and let down your nets for a catch.”

            There’sJesus…the One who makes people stretch. And there’s Peter. He’s short fused. He’s fatigued. He’s rammy. But his experience is the heart of his problem.

            Regardless Peter holds his tongue and gathers some patience.

            “Master, we have toiled all night and caught nothing; nevertheless at Your word I will let down the net.” 

             Reluctantly, skeptically he launches out from the shore and lowers the net. 

            And my mind sees an amazing event that must have looked something like this.

            Beneath the surface a stirring. The bedrock is disrupted by a whisper. “Come forth.” 

            Fish of all species emerge from the dark crevices and caves within the seabed. One command sends them darting in a hurried frenzy. A great school gathers in a swirling dance…round and round. In one fell swoop they jet toward a net suspended beneath the surface. The force of the impact jars the net. As the fish crowd upon each other, the walls of the net close in tightly. The fish are squeezed from all sides. They flap and squirm trying to stretch in a confined space. Suddenly the net begins to lift out of the water, but the weight is too heavy. The meshing begins to tear under the weight releasing a few back into the deep. 

            Not only were the fish drawn out of the water but the faithlessness in Peter’s heart was drawn to the surface as well. And he was disappointed at his unbelief. 

            Up to this point Peter placed perimeters around Jesus’ capabilities. The truth is Peter’s experience was more powerful than his faith in Jesus. 

            Oh friend, I think life experiences can wreak such havoc on our faith. When we trust in the trail we’ve blazed more than the One who created the trail, our faith is misguided. It’s little wonder that our faith is unstable when our gaze is fixed on the details of our struggles instead of the Lord. How can we trust Jesus when we don’t fix our eyes on Him? 

            Have you, like Peter, toiled over something that has left you empty handed? Have you come through a long dark night feeling discouraged, feeling that you are getting nowhere? Do your prayers ring as hollow as the belief in your heart? I want to encourage you today. No matter how big, no matter how small, no matter how long your struggles, God sees. He knows. He not only sees and knows but He has ordered your steps. Nothing under heaven befalls you that He has not first allowed. Through all of your circumstances He is working things for your good. He loves you with an incomprehensible love. He does not stand outside of your circumstances. Rather He is using Your circumstances to create a beautifully crafted child of God. 

            Come forth, faithful one. Allow God’s love to flood your heart until your gaze is so fixed upon Him that the world falls away from sight.

            Lift your gaze to the heavens. Know that the carpenter who once called fish into a net on the Sea of Galilee will call forth all you will ever need. Rest in His loving care today and may His peace permeate your heart and mind.

I lift up my eyes to the mountains – where does my help come from? My help comes from the Lord, the Maker of heaven and earth.                Psalm 121:1-2

The steps of a good man are ordered by the Lord, and He delights in his way.

                                                                                                            Psalm 37:23

And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to His purpose.              Romans 8:28 

I keep my eyes always on the Lord. With him at my right hand, I will not be shaken.                                                                                          Psalm 16:8

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            Recently I watched an interview that left me uneasy. A famous musician, whose body of work dates backs decades, shared his spiritual journey. He grew up in a home under a religion that didn’t accurately follow the Bible’s instructions, though it was centered on Jesus. As an adult he chose to abandon this religion and turn to a form of spiritualism he felt was right. He confessed his belief in “god” and his support of love and peace. He talked of being one with the universe and acknowledged his responsibility to be a good custodian of this fragile place. Jesus, however, was not a part of his newfound faith. 

            As he spoke I saw a map of youthful steps veering from one path onto another. The choices the new path offered seemed good. In many ways the new path even looked harmless, but by measuring the practices of this new pathway against the Word of God, it came clear that he had placed himself on a crash course toward destruction. 

            I too was raised in a home under the same religion as this man. It didn’t work for him, and it didn’t work for me. At an early age I had a hungry heart. I longed for unity with God. So when I became an adult I also stepped away from this religion and found a new pathway. 

            Permit me a moment to share an illustration that relates to the shift in both of our lives. 

            A research team was drilling for buried treasure on Nova Scotia. The debris they excavated caused them to question whether their boreholes were drilling straight. So they brought in an expert with laser technology to measure the drill’s pathway. Their suspicions were correct. While the drill remained on course for the better part of the excavation, it veered off course by several inches somewhere around 80 feet into the earth. By the time the drill reached the target site it was several feet off course. From the surface the pathway looked accurate, but in reality it had missed the mark altogether. 

            Both the musician and I went mining when we were young adults. While he went mining into the world, I went mining in a leather bound book that sits just inches from the keyboard I am typing on right now. It is my beloved Bible.

            The binder is tattered from years of use. Tissue-thin pages are marked with notes throughout – notes revealing precious mysteries that the Holy Spirit whispered in my ear as I read. By diving into Scripture I found the truest of treasures. I found the Truth. His name is Jesus and He is the very Word of God. 

In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was in the beginning with God. All things were made through Him, and without Him nothing was madethat was made.             John 1:1-3 (underline bold emphasis mine)

            Without Jesus, we have nothing. Not only did God’s Word bring me into a close relationship with Jesus but it has served as my compass for all of my adult life. It has shown me the difference between worldly philosophies and divine truth. It has redirected my crooked steps when I thought I was walking straight. Similarly to the laser technology at the drill site on Nova Scotia it has accurately pointed me to heavenly treasures. When I’m drilling in the Bible my faith takes me to new heights and my spirit comes alive. Without the Word of God there is no truth.

For the Word of God is alive and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart. Hebrews 4:12                                                                              

            My heart is heavy over the many people in our world who have stepped onto a spiritual path to pursue pagan practices rather than Jesus. They pursue what seems right to them. But without Jesus their faith is empty, their good works in vain. 

            There are three markers that produce good spiritual health – prayer, praise, and the Word of God. When we pursue all three both individually and collectively as a church body we prepare the way for the Lord to nest over our personal lives and over our congregation. Isn’t that what we all want? 

            Oh God, give us a passionate desire to read Your Word, to fall down on our knees in holy reverence to You, and lips that spill forth praise and thanksgiving for all that You have done. Help us to seek the only Truth and the only Way so we enter into the only Life there ever was, is, or will be. 

Amen and Amen.

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 First came the proclamation…

Then came the punishment…

            The order ~ bow before the golden image that King Nebuchadnezzar erected

            The refusal ~ three devout men boldly faced the consequences for their loyalty to God

            The punishment ~ a barbaric death in a fiery furnace 

            King Nebuchadnezzar had an inflated perspective of himself. The golden monument he erected was a tangible image of his own ego. Having no regard for the beliefs and commitments of others he ordered everyone to bow before the golden image when they heard the king’s musicians begin to play. But his was a law that three young Jewish men could not obey. For they were committed to another ~ the one true and faithful God ~ Yahweh. To bow a knee to a pagan monument would have been to turn their back on the only King they truly served. 

            When King Nebuchadnezzar discovered their disobedience he fell into a fit of rage. He set the furnace temperature hot enough to match his flaming temper. Then he chose a handful of his bravest warriors to bind the young men and cast them into the fiery furnace.

                                                                                    Imagine the terror…

                                                                                                Imagine the faith…

            “O King Nebuchadnezzar, we have no need to answer you in this matter. If that is the case, our God whom we serve is able to deliver us from the burning fiery furnace, and He will deliver us from your hand, O king. But if not, let it be known to you, O king, that we do not serve your gods, nor will we worship the gold image which you have set up.” Daniel 3:16b-18

            Steadfast…even in the face of uncertainty. 

            A bold proclamation of faith rang through the air as Shadrach, Meshach, and Abed-Nego were thrust into a sea of angry flames. Engulfed in smoke and hot embers their faith elevated them above their circumstances as they walked unscathed, untouched by the revenge of an angry king. 

            And there…in the midst of the fiery furnace One appeared. They did not have to brave the furnace alone. He never left them nor forsook them. True to God’s beautiful nature, He returned the loyalty they so fervently proclaimed only moments before. The King of Heaven joined them in the furnace. God protected His own from the hot flames. Not only were they immune to the fire, but Shadrach, Meshach, and Abed-Nego did not smell of smoke when they were pulled from the furnace either. 

            How faithful is our God!

            The fiery furnace teaches us great lessons:

Regardless – Without knowing the outcome of their circumstances the young Jewish men determined that God’s will was

                        their will regardlessof the consequences.

Revelation – When the fire threatened to consume them they stood upon the rock of their faith. God not only protected

                        them, but He chose that difficult event to revealHimself to them in the fiery furnace. 

Showcase – When the heat of life is turned up seven times and we wear our faith with steadfast determination, we

                      showcaseour faith before all of heaven. Such are the opportunities to make King Jesus marvel. 

Shalom – When we find ourselves in God’s perfect will, no matter what life throws our way, we can rest in His shalom (peace, harmony, wholeness, completeness, prosperity, welfare and tranquility). Is there any better place to be?

            My friends, I know many of you are suffering in a hot furnace as I write this. Some are dealing with more heat than others. But God wants you to know that He sees. He knows. He has a plan for you. He longs to prosper you and give you a future and a hope. Like the young Jewish men proclaimed their faith before a pagan king, proclaim your faith before your challenge. Set your eyes on Jesus not looking to the left or to the right. As your gaze is rightly fixed your problems will fall from view and peace that passes all understanding with guard your heart and mind.

            Now may the Father of Lights, the precious Prince of Peace, and the comfort of the Holy Counselor guide you and keep you all of the faithful days of your life.

The Lord is near to all who call upon Him, To all who call upon Him in truth.         Psalm 145:18

For He Himself is our peace.        Ephesians 2:14a

When Jesus heard it, He marveled, and said to those who followed, “Assuredly, I say to you, I have not found such great faith, not even in Israel.”                       Matthew 8:10

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            We stayed at a bed and breakfast tucked away in the tranquil rolling hills on the east side of the island. The panoramic views of the ocean from the deck were second to none. Every morning I’d step out into the warm Caribbean air and survey the varied shades of turquoise waters against the backdrop of Buck Island. 

            Our schedule was fairly loaded with activities for the week. We kayaked in the marina, went horseback riding on the beach and rainforest, sampled the various restaurants, and shopped in the quaint boutiques. When we weren’t on the move we were on the white sandy beaches under a broad-smiled sun. The melody of the ocean washing over the seashore still plays in my mind. Sounds like paradise, doesn’t it?

            Can I be honest? I felt as empty as tin drum while I was on vacation. I’ll explain later.

            While I was on vacation my mind wandered back in the states regularly. I thought about our adopted son Eric who lives in a cellblock with a dozen angry inmates. These men are undisciplined, wondering orphans who don’t have a heavenly Father and in many cases are without an earthly father as well. This volatile civilization requires a guarded awareness at all times even though the inmates are under constant surveillance. The prison conditions are dirty. The daily food rations are sparse. In most cases the guards are as angry as the inmates and as cold as the air in this concrete fortress. 

            But Eric is as full as the sun shining over beautiful St. Croix.

            Isn’t it ironic? Two people ~ one basking in paradise. One incarcerated. One feeling empty. One fully satisfied. How? Simple! Jesus! 

            So what happened to me in St. Croix? Where did I go wrong?

            When we went away I planned every details of our vacation…almost. Since we stayed in a bed and breakfast, the environment was foreign to me and I was blindsided by the different spaces, level of activity, and people we shared the space with. While I attempted intimate time with God everyday, I felt like a fish out of water. I was easily distracted, and I carelessly fell victim to the busy schedule we kept. My discipline went out the window when my structure fell away. You would think in such a beautiful environment I would have found my way to my Savior so easily. How foolish I was! Every day the life in me slowly drained away like a leaking pool. By the end of the week I was empty and I missed my Jesus.

            When I’m home my normal routine is pretty regimented. I get up early every morning so I can start my day with my Savior. By beginning the day with Jesus I am putting Him first. In addition, I make it a practice to bring Jesus into my circumstances throughout the day. This discipline has created a heightened awareness of His presence in my life and has taken my relationship with Him to a whole new level. When I encounter a problem or a blessing I turn to Jesus and we share it together. I am very much aware that I am never alone. And this is huge! Because of this practice Jesus stepped out of the pages of the Bible and became a real person to me. He’s not an idea or a character in a set of stories. He’s not even a religion. He’s my Friend, my constant Companion, my King. This practice has made the load in my life is so much lighter and the sweet communion I enjoy with Jesus so much sweeter. 

            If it’s one thing St. Croix has taught me it’s this ~ the world, in all of its splendor, will run hollow if Jesus isn’t there. 

            Eric understands this concept all too well. When I arrived in St. Croix my cellphone rang. It was Eric. By the sound of his warm voice and his boisterous laughter you’d think he just stepped off the plane. When I asked how he was doing he said, “I’m blessed! I’m blessed!” Of course he’s blessed. Eric is always with Jesus and Jesus makes Eric free! 

            Can I ask you something? Do you live with Jesus? Is He first? Do you spend your days sharing life with Him? Is it your impulse to run to Him with your circumstances, both good and bad? When we develop a conscious awareness of Jesus’ presence, not only is life so much easier, but it’s so much more fulfilling as well. 

Therefore if the Son makes you free, you shall be free indeed.         John 8:36

For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.    Matthew 11:30

Draw near to God and He will draw near to you.   James 4:8a

Yet indeed I also count all things loss for the excellence of the knowledge of Christ Jesus my Lord, for whom I have suffered the loss of all things, and count them as rubbish, that I may gain Christ.  Philippians 3:8                                 

Now the Lord is the Spirit, and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom. II Corinthians 3:17

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            Can you imagine the horror Johann must have experienced as he watched the rise of such an evil man? How many times did the dark veil of regret eclipse him as he witnessed a devastating holocaust? As a young child Johann couldn’t see through the scope of time to see what he was saving. In a moment of desperate need Johann chose valiant righteousness. If only his heart could have found rest in the understanding that only God knows the future. Only God can address the evil acts of mankind. How can a righteous choice ever become a regret?

            But how about moments when righteousness is forsaken and sin is chosen instead? 

            So many believers struggle to overcome sinful choices of the past. We make the wrong choice and open the door for a dysfunctional cycle of condemnation. We relive. We lament. We regret. 

            Every interval of regret that sweeps over a human heart adds a layer of disappointment until we have laid upon ourselves a heavy burden that our hearts cannot bear. 

            In our minds we maximize our failures and minimize God’s power.

            We water down the precious blood of Jesus and its ability to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. And while we feed ourselves the poison of regret we unknowingly create an idol that consumes our minds and leads us away from God.  

            Regret is powerful. It is a lethal injection with the ability to infect our emotions, paralyze our minds, inhibit our actions, and even make us physically ill. It makes little difference whether regret is born through a righteous act or a sinful choice. On both ends of the spectrum regret is the same poison. Condemnation is highly effective and very destructive. More than that it is disrespectful to the One who paid such a high price to set our weary hearts free.  

            Consider this ~ some of the greatest heroes of the faith committed some of the most terrible sins. 

            –  King David, a man after God’s own heart, had an adulterous affair with Bathsheba. When he discovered she was pregnant with his child he positioned her innocent husband on the frontline of a vicious battle so he would be murdered.

            –  Prior to his conversion the apostle Paul, the one who wrote 2/3 of the New Testament and turned the world upside down with the gospel message, was a terrorist in the ancient times.

            –  Peter who was one of Jesus’ closest friends and companions turned his back when Jesus needed him most. Not only did he withdraw from Jesus when He was arrested but he denied any association with Him proving his disloyalty.

            What is my point in all of this? These men, in all of their human frailty, forsook regret and condemnation for the sake of the gospel. They were powerful men of faith because they refused to amplify their shortcomings and diminish God’s power. 

            Friends, we are stepping into the year 2020. I can hardly believe it. But the fact that we are already entering another decade is proof that time is short and what we do with our time is critically important. Let us not waste an ounce of energy lamenting over the things we did or should have done. Let us forge ahead with our eyes squarely fixed on Jesus with complete faith that the blood He spilled on Calvary has the power to wash away every sin we have ever committed. It’s time for a new start. Don’t you think?

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            It was an infamous day ~ infamous because it was so unlikely. No one ever anticipated the outcome. Little wonder we haven’t stopped talking about it ever since. 

            The Bible, historical accounts, and legend all agree that Goliath was a monstrosity of a man. He lived in the era when giants roamed the earth. According to God’s Word this giant was 6 cubits and a span. If we interpret a cubit as 18 inches, this hulk was approximately 9’9” tall. That’s almost the height of my living room ceiling! Now let’s dress this warrior in the armor he wore on that fateful day. 

            His bronze helmet and coat of mail weighed 125 lbs. That doesn’t include the weight of the bronze greaves he wore over his legs. Strapped to his back was a javelin as thick as a weaver’s beam with an iron spearhead weighing approximately 17 lbs. No doubt his physical frame was cloaked in as much muscle as his bronze armor. Can you imagine what an intimidating sight this man was? 

            For forty days Goliath taunted the Israeli army every morning and every night. He was hungry for a worthy opponent. He struck fear in anyone within earshot. No one wanted to take on the giant, not even King Saul who would have been the most likely opponent for Goliath. 

                                    Enter a young shepherd boy named David.

            David was not a heavy infantry soldier like Goliath. David was a slinger. Ancient slingers were armed with a leather strap used as a projectile. It has been said that a skilled ancient slinger could reach 6-7 revolutions per second with a leather strap creating the stopping power of a 45-millimeter gun. A slinger could hit an object at a distance of up to 200 yards away. How’s that for speed and accuracy! Goliath faced a formidable opponent. But David’s skills, as good as they were, could not lay claim to this victory. The battle belonged to the Lord. And He would be glorified through it.

            Goliath became angry when David stepped onto the battlefield. So surprised that his opponent was a mere boy, he began firing off angry words of disdain. 

            ‘Am I a dog that you come to me with sticks?’ And the Philistine cursed David by his gods.                                                        I Samuel 17:43 (underline emphasis mine)

            Big mistake! This giant did not wage war with a young shepherd boy. He waged war with God Almighty. Words breathe life and death, and Goliath was about to reap the prophesy of his own foolish words.

            In the Valley of Elah where the battle took place, the stones are made of barium sulfate. They are twice the density of regular stones. Isn’t it amazing how God is involved in even the minor details of this story? One stone~ that’s all it took. The steps of a good man are truly ordered by God, and on that day God handed David the very weapon he needed to fell a giant.

            David ran at Goliath without a shred of armor. But in the spirit David was arrayed in the full armor of God. Dressed in heaven’s favor the sword of the Spirit proceeded from his mouth as David proclaimed the might and power of the Lord God Almighty. He prophesied Goliath’s death and the manner with which he would kill him. Faith was David’s military campaign. Tell me, who could stand against such a campaign?

            As David released the stone it shot from the sling with bullet-like speed. His aim was so precise that the stone embedded in a small exposed space on Goliath’s forehead. And the giant came crashing to the ground. 

            Then David did something very powerful. He ran to Goliath and drawing his opponent’s sword he cut off his head. That day the Philistine camp received a clear message ~ the God of Israel will not be mocked. The very weapon Goliath threatened David with was the weapon God used to silence a faithless Philistine.

            David’s faith walk is a blueprint for us. He began his journey into manhood watching over lowly sheep. While his work seemed menial and mundane he handled his responsibilities with excellence. While he honed his craft as a slinger, he cultivated an intimate, vibrant relationship with God in a season of obscurity. When his life became more complicated he knew how to lean into God, the source of his strength. 

            Every frame – from battling Goliath to running from Saul in the wilderness – was intense preparation for the greatest role God would grant David as king over Israel. Never was there a king as beloved as David. The Bible says he was a man after God’s own heart. What made David so special? It was the posture of his heart. Though David was drawn out of a shepherd’s field and into a royal palace as king over Israel, he never let his station change his allegiance. His heart remained supple before God. In his heart David was always the young shepherd boy who loved his Daddy in heaven. 

            Friend, God wants us to remain supple before Him no matter what frame we find ourselves in. Every frame has its purpose. Every frame is preparation for the next task God has for us. Many times our preparation is forged in mundane activities that we deem useless. Other times our preparation is forged in the most painful seasons. But if we determine to keep our hearts humble we, like David, will be children after God’s own heart. We will watch as God takes down our enemies one by one. The hard circumstances of life will come crashing to the ground as we proclaim God’s Word. And when our lives round out and the final frame is drawn to a close we will be able to stand before our King and say we gave Him all the glory through a life well lived. 

 The Lord is my rock and my fortress and my deliverer, My God, my rock, in whom I take refuge; My shield and the horn of my salvation, my stronghold.      Psalm 18:2

“God opposes the proud but shows favor to the humble.”   James 4:6b                          

Glorify the Lord with me; let us exalt his name together.  Psalm 34:3                           

“In all these things, we are more than conquerors through Him who loved us.” Romans 8:37

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            Father, as I look out my window at this beautiful view of Your creation I am reflecting on a scripture that has been tutoring me lately.

            But those who trust in the Lord will find new strength. They will soar on wings like eagles. They will run and not grow weary. They will walk and not faint. Isaiah 40:31

            In my day to day life I see uprisings on all sides. I see more sickness and disease on a rampage. The weather patterns more unpredictable than ever. Right now Hurricane Dorian is gearing up to slam Florida, Georgia, and the Carolinas with untamable fury. These storm fronts might sport a new name, but it seems like there’s always another one in the line up just waiting to strike. And when natural disasters aren’t attacking our land, our government is waging war against itself. The government isn’t alone. People across the globe are drawing angry battle lines. They’re passionate about their beliefs, beliefs that are blinding them to a higher truth. Jesus, Your words are coming to pass.  

Sin will be rampant everywhere, and the love of many will grow cold. Matthew 24:12

            I could easily become discouraged by all that I see. (And sometimes I do). But the clouds just outside my window are speaking to me. They speak of truth that rises high above the swirling circumstances wreaking havoc on the globe just under my feet. They are calling me to mount up. They are telling me that if I will keep my gaze lifted high to my God, the Creator of all that I see, I will find new strength, strength that is humanly impossible. The clouds are inviting me to step through my window. They tell me to come feel the air between my toes, come walk upon the flowing currents that carry me in complete safety. They tell me to come bask in the sun that smiles broad while she showers her golden rays upon everything in sight. Oh God, Your creation is so beautiful and the message You are laying upon my heart right now – even more beautiful! I hear what Your heart is saying to mine in this place.

            Fret not, child of Mine. All of these things are the beginning of birth pangs. But take heart. I have overcome the world. In Me you will find all the strength you need to face all that you encounter. Abide in Me always and I will abide in You. I will carry you till the day I bring You home to live with Me forever. Mount up, child. Keep your eyes squarely fixed upon Me and when life’s storms rage, you will find safety within the shelter of My wings. Cling to me always and My brilliance will fill your heart and mind and soul bringing glory to My great name.

            Abba, I need You! From this day forward I will seek to keep my eyes fixed upon You and You alone. When life’s storms rage I will hold onto the anchor of Your word. When I walk through my days, I will hold Your nail-scarred hand. I will whisper Your name and savor Your sweet presence, sweet Spirit. Be my everything, Jesus, for that is what You are. Become the air that I breathe, the blood that courses through my veins, the living water that springs from my spirit. Always and always,

Amen

Abide in Me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit of itself, unless it abides in the vine, neither can you, unless you abide in Me. I am the vine, you are the branches. He who abides in Me, and I in him, bears much fruit; for without Me you can do nothing. If anyone does not abide in Me, he is cast out as a branch and is withered; and they gather them and throw them into the fire, and they are burned.   John 15:4-6                                                                          

“I have told you all of this so that you may have peace in Me. Here on earth you will have many trials and sorrows. But take heart, because I have overcome the world.” John 16:33                                                                                              

God is our refuge and strength, always ready to help in times of trouble. Psalm 46:1

Those who abide in the shelter of the Most High will find rest in the shadow of the Almighty. This I declare about the Lord: He alone is my refuge, my place of safety; He is my God, and I trust Him….If you make the Lord your refuge, if you make the Most High your shelter, no evil will conquer you. Psalm 91:1, 29, 10 

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