out of control

out of control

She’s out of control; he’s out of control, they’re out of control, I’m out of control . . . . sad to say, but this has become a very popular phrase in the 21^st Century.  According to Dictionary.com the definition for ‘out of control’ is:  not under management or direction; unmanageable or wild.  Dictionary.com's 21st Century Lexicon follows suit with this expanded phrase for ‘out of control’ // Also, out of hand.  No longer under management, direction, or regulation; unmanageable or unruly.  For example, Housing costs are out of control, or the children were getting out of hand again. The first term uses control in the sense of “restraint,” a usage dating from the late 1500s.

Oh my!  This is most amazing: this term is dated all the way back to the 1500s.  Out of control – this conflict knows no age limits and no gender; no one is immune from experiencing it at some point in their lifetime.  It’s a place that really does match this definition of unmanageable or wild – wild emotions like spaghetti noodles all stuck together.   Your soul going to a place that is unruly and unimaginable; just as David said, why art thou downcast, why are you so restless, why are you down in the dumps, why are you so upset inside, ohhhhhhh my soul.   But, here’s good news……..             

Recently, I picked John G. Lake’s book back up: “His Life, His Sermons, His Boldness of Faith.”  As I was reading the Forward (again) by Gloria Copeland, I made a fresh commitment to read one of his sermons every day.  There’s one particular chapter that has changed my life forever.  I believe you will experience the same; here are some excerpts taken from his sermon, Triune Salvation:

   

Man is triune… spirit and soul and body . . . just the same as God is triune, being Father and Son and Holy Ghost.  Salvation begins at the time when the spirit is surrendered to God.  People wonder why, after having given their hearts to God and after having received a witness of the spirit, they are still troubled with evil desires and tempted in evil ways.  The nature has three departments, and therefore, the surrender of the spirit to God is not all that He demands.  God demands also the mind and the body.  The mind is the soul life; and it continues being of the earth – earthy - and doing earthy things until God does something to that mind, until we seek God for a new mind.

The Church at large recognizes the salvation of the spirit.  But they have not recognized the salvation of the mind and salvation for the body.  It’s found in the same manner: by committing the body and mind now and forever to God.  When we trust our minds (souls) and our bodies to man, two parts are out of the hands of God, and there remains only our spirits in tune with heaven.  It ought not to be so.  This absolute consecration to God, this triune salvation, is the secret of the successful Christian life.  Amen, Brother John Lake! 

23 And may the God of peace Himself sanctify you through and through [separate you from profane things, make you pure and wholly consecrated to God]; and may your spirit and soul and body be preserved sound and complete [and found] blameless at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ (the Messiah).  24 Faithful is He Who is calling you [to Himself] and utterly trustworthy, and He will also do it [fulfill His call by hallowing and keeping you].  1 Thessalonians 5:23-24 (AMP)

The Lord has led me just today to recommit and consecrate my whole being to Him; spirit and soul (my mind, my intellect, my will, my emotions, my thoughts) and body.  All three parts in His hands, under His management, in tune with heaven and definitely NOT out of control!  Blessed be His name!

Mary McIver

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The Best Job Of All

 "So we, being many, are one body in Christ, and every one members one of another. Having then gifts differing according to the grace that is given to us... according to the proportion of faith."  Romans 12:5-6

Having 5 girls in the house makes every day an AMAZING adventure! When they were smaller, it was an incredible amount of work just to maintain a daily routine of working, cooking, cleaning, homework, doctor's appointments, shopping....and the list goes on and on. As they are getting older, things are getting much easier around the Beck house! I am working with them to learn all of the aspects of running a home, and along the way it is becoming clear what each of my girls is best at doing around the house. Still it is important to me that they continue to learn skills in different areas and that means they don't always get to do their favorite jobs.

There are various reasons I may ask a certain one of my girls to help me in different areas. If I need it done quickly, I'll ask the one who is best in that area knowing that it will be done right the first time. If time is not an issue and I know one of girls needs to work on that area, I may choose her so that she has an opportunity to work on that task and become better at it. If I need to spend some time with one of the girls, I may choose her just so that we can be together while getting the job done.

Now and then I may get a bit of an attitude because they don't want to do what I've asked of them. Depending on the situation sometimes I will explain why they are doing it, but I also believe that at times it's an important life lesson to learn to obey whether they understand or not. The good thing is that even though they don't always understand, I know exactly why I chose them and am confident all will be well when the assignment is complete. What I also know is that no assignment has to do with the worth of any of my girls. I love each and every one of them just the same, and their assignment does not make them any more or less valuable in my eyes! The assignments I give them may be different because I understand their abilities and graces, but each of them is precious in their own right because of who they are to me...they are my children.

It's probably not hard to see where I'm going with this. :)  Even though we are adults naturally speaking, we are God's kids and have assignments He hands out at home, on the job and in ministry throughout our communities and around the world.

I wish I could say every assignment and season of life has been glorious and enjoyable, but honestly some have been very difficult to get through. Yet even at times when I felt as though I just couldn't go any further, His grace was always present and sufficient. As we grow and mature, we learn that assignments have more to do with His purposes than our comfort or preferences. Often the assignments of the past that we didn't understand become crystal clear to us as the rest of His plan for our live manifests. I have personally found that my most difficult assignments were simply training ground for the wonderful things that lied ahead in the future.

The most important thing to understand is that we are not defined by our assignment in the Kingdom. We are defined by our relationship with Jesus Christ that makes us children of our Father God! God is not like the earthly culture we see around us. He is not more proud of someone with a certain position or title, and He doesn't value one of His children over another based on what they do or don't do. Father God is just as pleased with the faithfulness of the Sunday School teacher assigned to teach 2 or 3 as He is with the faithfulness of the Pastor assigned to teach 10,000! He sees our hearts and our faith in what He has given us to do, and that is all that truly matters.

So, as the sign says...Keep Calm and Do Your Assignment! Be comfortable in your own skin and in your own purpose. You are precious and valuable in the Father's sight. No matter how great or how seemingly small the task at hand may seem, it is needed and necessary to the Kingdom, so give it your best! 

What's the best job of all? The one He gives you!

Enjoying the journey,

Debbie Beck

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Right On Time

Have you ever felt like you are in a holding pattern? Circling the same airport, waiting to land? I certainly have! In fact, it best describes the season of life in which I find myself right now. Just like that airplane, I feel as if I have been circling the same promises in scripture and in prayer for months and months, waiting for the answer to be manifested in this natural realm in which I live. Sometimes in the waiting, we can become weary, for I think waiting is one of the hardest things to do. Galatians 6:9 tells us to not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time, we will reap a harvest of blessing if we just don't give up. That's all we have to do, just don't give up! Honestly, at times, that is easier said than done.

Abraham and Sarah's story of how they overcame unimaginable obstacles to receive their child of promise, Isaac, is such a source of inspiration to me. In Genesis chapters 16-18, we read how God had promised Abraham through his wife Sarah, who had been barren for years and years, would bear him a son in their old age and that through them all the nations of the earth would be blessed, AND that their descendants would be as numerous as the stars in the sky! What an incredible promise and miracle! Do you know how long he had to wait for this to come to pass? It was 25 years! Now that's a long time to wait to see a promise from God come to pass in your life! But a huge part of trusting God's promises is trusting God's timing for it.

So why would God do this, make them wait that long? I believe there are at least two reasons that I can see. First, only in God's timing could God get all of the glory. Romans chapter 4 says that Abraham's body was as good as dead and Sarah's womb also. Yet Abraham did not waver through unbelief but was STRENGTHENED in his faith and gave glory to God, being persuaded that God had power to do what He promised. You see, if God had caused their child of promise to be born in anyone's but HIS timing, then people could say that it would have happened anyway, that God had nothing to do with it. But, in His timing, it was humanly impossible for a child to be born to a woman of 90 and a man of 100 years old! So now, God is able to receive all the glory! Hallelujah!

Waiting, today in our American culture, is certainly not a virtue. We live in such a fast paced society. Everything from our food to finding out news and information happens in mere minutes and sometimes seconds. Here's a news flash for you, God is NOT a fast food drive through! Hebrews 6:12 says that we inherit the promises of God through faith AND PATIENCE. It takes both!

The second reason I can see why God made them wait that long is that He wanted to do a work in them. James 1:2 says it perfectly, "Consider it pure joy, my brothers, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance [patience]. Perseverance must finish its work so that you are mature and complete, not lacking anything." NIV   And it's no different for us, today.  God is ultimately concerned with our character and maturity. He wants us to grow up, and not be deficient in any way.

We can trust God. He knows what He's doing. He is worthy of our trust. Numbers 23:19 says, "God is not a man, that he should lie, nor a son of man, that he should change his mind. Does he speak and then not act? Does he promise and not fulfill?" We see only what is right in front of us, God sees eternity. We see the short term, God sees the long term. We see the finite, God sees the infinite.

We can trust God's promises and His timing so He gets the glory and so He can do a work in us. It may be the 11th hour and the 59th minute, but God is never late; He's always right on time! Hang in there, my friends, the promise WILL manifest, we just can't give up!

Not giving up,

Kim Dillingham

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I Will Never Be Dependent On A Man!

These are the words I declared in my heart at 16 years old - "I will never be dependent on a man!" 

For years I had observed the dysfunction of my parents' marriage. After yet another explosive evening, I determined that I would position myself, so that if I ever wanted to leave a marriage, I could do so. To me, this meant being financially self sufficient and independent. 

So, I chose my career path based on annual income. I graduated from college and got a job in my field right away. Because I am a natural leader and because I was not going to be dominated by a man, I was the leader of our household. Life was good!

But then.....the Lord began to deal with me and show me the error of my ways.

I began to learn about submission and I knew that I needed to make a change. Since that time, I have sought to be submitted to my husband. This has been an up and down journey for me. I have not arrived, but I have made progress. I have learned some key principles as I have journeyed his path. I would like to share some of those principles with you.

Why?
You have probably heard the scripture in Eph 5:22 that says - "Wives submit to your husbands as to the Lord." We submit because we are commanded to submit. That's the order that God ordained. And because God ordained it that way, that's where the anointing is. Men are anointed to be the head of the home. 

But ladies, we are not left out. Prov. 31:27 says, "She watches over the affairs of her household." Over the course of my marriage, there would be various times when there would be unspoken undertones in our home. I would mention it to my husband and he had no idea they even existed. Sometimes they were so obvious to me and I could not understand how he could NOT have picked up on it. Now I know why - that's not where his anointing is. It's my anointing to watch over the affairs of the home and in so doing, I pick up on those things. I am the anointed watchman, the guard of our home!

What?
What does submission look like? Some say it is agreeing with your spouse. I have to challenge that perspective. I believe that submission only comes when you both disagree. To move forward, one has to give in. That's us Ladies! When there is disagreement, we can state our view, but if he still sees it differently, we are the ones to give in, to submit to his decision. If he is making what seems like a completely silly decision, that's ok. God will honor us for submitting. 

How?
There are two ways - 1) by faith and 2) as unto the Lord. In 1 Pet 3:1-5 it says:

"Wives, likewise, be submissive to your own husbands, that even if some do not obey the Word, they without a word may be won by the conduct of their wives, when they observe your chaste conduct accompanied by fear. Do not let your adornment be merely outward - arranging the hair, wearing gold, or putting on fine apparel - rather let it be the hidden person of the heart with the incorruptible beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit, which is very precious in the sight of God. For in this manner, in former times, the holy women who trusted in God also adorned themselves being submissive to their own husbands." [emphasis mine]

This passage also tells us to be submissive and gives great insight as to why and how. But I believe a key here is that simple phrase, these women of previous generations who are to be admired and respected, trusted in God. We have to trust God that as we submit, He will have His hand on our husbands, as the head of household. It is an act of faith.

For me that means I have to pray and otherwise, keep my mouth shut!

The second way we submit is as to the Lord. As we saw in Eph. 5:22 - we are told to submit to our husbands as to the Lord. Husbands are commanded to love their wives as Christ loved the church. There will be times when you don't think he's loving you that way. 

Submit anyway - you are doing it as unto the Lord, because God commanded you to, not because your husband deserves it.

Now a disclaimer - If you are in an abusive relationship, you need to seek outside counsel and soon. This devotion is not directed to those relationships.

With the exception of abusive situations, we should always be submitted to our husbands. A good rule of thumb to live by, is considering Christ and the church. The church is the bride of Christ. If you are in a situation and you are not sure what direction to take, consider if it would be appropriate for the church to respond in like manner to Christ. The church should always be in submission to Christ and should never try to manipulate or control the Savior.

I've found that submission is very freeing. There are decisions that I do not have to be responsible for - woohoo! I've also found it to be very challenging, especially to keep quiet. But we can do all things through Christ who strengthens us (Phil 4:13), and so I press on!

I would love to hear your story on submission! 

Be Blessed!

Dawn

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Are You Hungry?

Our vacation was as normal as any other until she asked, "Are you a Christian"? The maid saw our Bible and a book by Kenneth Copeland next to our bed as she was cleaning our room and was brave enough to speak.  Every day thereafter when she finished work she came to our room with several women in tow just to hear more about Jesus.  She was HUNGRY for more of God! So hungry that she was willing to risk her job and chastisement from friends for fraternizing with the guests.  As we prayed over and encouraged those precious women with the Word I was overwhelmed and humbled that God could use me to minister to Christian sisters who had a much greater spiritual appetite than I.  After seeing their zeal I realized that I was hungry and thirsty for Him but didn't know it.  Yes, I love Jesus, and my lifestyle says that I love Him but somewhere along the way I had lost that deep hunger and longing of which David speaks in Psalm 42.  I had become a spiritual anorexic who was living off of yesterday's meal and was starving myself without realizing it.  

Anorexics go so long without food that their appetite decreases and they literally do not experience hunger.  In the same way when we don't feed our spirit man with the Word and have fellowship with the Father we will lose our appetite for His presence.  This puts us in a weakened condition with no strength to fight when the enemy strikes.  Luke 6:21 says, "Blessed are those who hunger and seek with eager desire now, for you shall be filled and completely satisfied".

Like me, are you hungry and don't know it?   If you will eagerly seek Jesus He will begin to revive your appetite.  As you sup with The Lord your hunger for Him will grow and He will fill you to overflowing.  I encourage you to not just live in a state of blind spiritual starvation but rather dine on His Word in His glorious presence.  Your joy will be unspeakable no matter what circumstances you may face.  Yes, it really is that simple!  Just seeking Him NOW will put you in a position to be filled and completely satisfied to do His will and purpose on the earth.  

Brooke Glass 

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I Am A Missionary

I am a missionary.

That’s who I am at the core of my being.  Even though my home is in the country of my birth, my heart encompasses the peoples of the world. 

I long for others to grasp that they will be accountable for harvest.  

Recently, I was looking for a good book that explains thoroughly how we are all called to love the world. I had difficulties finding the one that expressed my heart toward the faces I’ve seen & our responsibility to them; for we are all called to go.  Yes, that means different things to different people, yet the call remains the same.

“Go into all the world & preach the gospel to all creation.” Mk 16:15

This command is for all of us & we all are responsible to own it, though our feet may never leave our own soil.   In some way, we have to come face to face with this scripture & our part in its command.

For me, I’m the happiest when I’m on my way!  I remember the first time I took a missions trip.  I was 16 when I went to Brazil  & it was like putting on a suit that fit… I had found my destiny!

I purpose to live every day, well that’s my goal anyway, as if knowing Jesus will return soon.  I believe that’s how the disciples lived as well; it’s what spurred them on.  My heart cries out, “Come, Jesus!”  I know He answers back that He is coming:

He who is the faithful witness to all these things says, "Yes, I am coming soon!" ~ Rev 22:20

All the while, I’ve seen the masses & I know the great work to be accomplished before He can return.  My own two feet have travelled through Asia, well over 200 hours on 2^nd class Indian trains on one trip alone.  I’ve seen amount of people in so many countries that haven’t heard & wonder directionless or, worse, are worshipping a god that offers no loving relationship.

With so much work to be done, won’t it require more hands on deck?

My heart cries out, “How can I make a difference, I’m only one.”  Can I? Absolutely.  Can you? Yes!  Words comes back to me from a dear man who has given his all in the streets of New York City, “To the world you may be just one person, but to one person you may be the whole world.”

Most will never gather in the masses or preach to a crowded football field.  All of us can however live our life of love to the one who walks beside us.  For those people too far to physically reach, we can all pray & out of our generosity we can give.

Let’s let Jesus walk the earth again through us & feel His heart beat for the nations of the world.

You can be that one!  Will you pray?  Will you go? Will you give?

Together, let’s say “Yes, Lord.”

Judi Jo

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Look Beyond the Mountain

About 9 years ago during a worship service I saw a vision and glimpse of my life in the future, my calling.  At that point I new that I was called to ministry.  I'm not going to get into the details because that vivid image was given to me, but I'm amazed at how through the years the Lord has added details to that picture.  Looking back I see things that have taken place in my life, growth, tears, changes in setting and it all makes sense and just flows together.

My perception of that vision and what God is actually doing have been two different things however. People who I first thought were a part are no longer a part of that picture.  The location is definitely not the same and what it is exactly that I am/will be doing I still don't exactly know, but He keeps adding to me daily and I am so thankful for that.  When Brian and I were in Bible School one of our instructors told us that God won't show you everything He is going to have you accomplish all at once, it would terrify you!  

"My thoughts are nothing like your thoughts," says the LORD. "And my ways are far beyond anything you could imagine."  Isaiah 55:8

In His perfect timing we can do anything through Him!  Therein lies my problem... I'm gonna get real for a minute.  Are we trying to fulfill God's plan for our life on our own and making things happen ourselves?  Or are we walking it out with Him?  Isaiah 45:2 "I will go before you and make the rough places smooth; I will shatter the doors of bronze and cut through their iron bars.  When we are walking things out with the Lord He makes it easy, there shouldn't be a struggle.  

Sometimes our biggest challenge is ourself and our thoughts.  When things don't happen the way you think it's going to happen and a door or window seems to close, are you letting discouragement and doubt take hold, or are you are you seeing the bigger picture realizing that the way that God has set before you is much better than the road you are currently traveling?

I've done the former.  I let thoughts come in saying that I wasn't good enough or talented enough or I didn't hear from God enough.  Then a door would seem to close or I would get pregnant and was put on bed rest.  That's the worst! Never blame your children or anyone else for what YOU are not doing.  All those things are just excuses and chains that WE attach to ourselves that keep us from walking in our calling.  We've got to break them off!  

We do this by being grateful and thanking the Lord for what He has done.  Paul and Silas could have been doubting the call on their lives when they were sitting in Prison for preaching the gospel in Acts 16, but no... 25 Around midnight Paul and Silas were praying and singing hymns to God, and the other prisoners were listening. 26 Suddenly, there was a massive earthquake, and the prison was shaken to its foundations. All the doors immediately flew open, and the chains of every prisoner fell off!

                             WE MUST LEARN TO LOOK BEYOND THE MOUNTAIN

If you are currently discouraged with how things are going in your life I want to challenge you as I do the same.  Worship the Lord get on your face in His Presence and worship Him.  Meditate on what He has spoken over you and about you.  Only His words matter.  Get rid of the thoughts that you are holding onto and think on His thoughts.   His ways are far beyond anything that you could imagine!  

Far be it from me to not believe

Even when my eyes can’t see

And this mountain that’s in front of me

Will be thrown into the midst of the sea

So let go my soul and trust in Him

The waves and wind still know His name

-It Is Well, Kristene DiMarco

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That 'S' Word in Marriage

You probably thought that 'S' word was submit, didn't you? Well honestly, I did too. As I pondered the writing of this devotion, it was intended to bring practical insights for submission in marriage. 

But, as I was studying and reading, I began to realize that a lack of submission is not the root issue in most cases. 

Rather, it is SELFISHNESS!

I've come to believe that selfishness is at the root of nearly all sin - greed, covetousness, lust, rebellion, idleness, hypocrisy, arrogance, gluttony, infidelity, and the list goes on. 

The essence of selfishness is "I want what I want, when I want it." It is all about getting my needs and wants met. It's what led to Lucifer's demise - he wanted to do what he wanted and didn't want to be under any authority, even that of God. 

Unfortunately, our society is perpetuating selfishness at a gross rate.

So, what happens when two selfish individuals stand at the marriage altar stating their vows? Stats show that nearly half, both inside the church and out, will end in divorce. Of those divorces, 70-80% will be contributed to irreconcilable differences. This is defined as - "when you and your spouse can't and never will agree on certain fundamental issues in marriage." 

What happened? They agreed at one point or they wouldn't have gotten married. Why can't they agree now?

Because the honeymoon is over and the true colors are what you are left with. Unfortunately, they both want what they want, when they want it. Neither one will give in and they reach the point where they can't and never will agree - irreconcilable differences. I want to clarify, that I am not referring to abusive situations here. This is in reference to two people who decide they can't get along anymore.

Selfishness is not a new issue or condition, it has been occurring since the beginning. It's what led Eve to eat the fruit. 

In Phil 2:21, it says, "For everyone looks out for his own interest, not those of Jesus Christ." Paul said everyone looks out for his own interests - we are all given to selfishness. It is our sin nature.

The good news is, it doesn't have to stay this way, and frankly it should not be that way in the church. Jesus was the personification of selflessness. In Phil 2:3, Paul tells us how we can obtain that. I'll warn you, it is easy to say or read, but much harder to implement:

"Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit, but in humility consider others better than yourselves."

There it is - in humility consider others better than yourselves. Our flesh screams at that one. We especially don't like to consider others better than ourselves when we believe we have been wronged by them. But it is the high road, the Christ-like approach.

I know this is getting a bit long, but I do want to conclude with some contrasting attitudes of selfishness and selflessness:

Selfishness - "What have you done for me lately?"
Selflessness - "What have I done for you lately?"

Selfishness - "I love you, I can't live without you; I need you." (the essence of this is needing what the person does for you)
Selflessness - "I love you for who you are, regardless of what you do for me."

Selfishness - "I told you so!"
Selflessness - "It didn't work, it's ok; let's learn from it and move on."

Selfishness - Doesn't really listen to other individuals, but rather interrupts or sits waiting for them to take a breath so they can interject their response.
Selflessness - Let's each one speak freely while listening and giving consideration to their words.

Selfishness - "I behave this way because that's how I was raised."
Selflessness - "I am responsible for my actions and will work on making the changes needed."

Studies show that there is a direct correlation between high marital quality and high levels of generosity. Selflessness is key!

We do not have to do it alone!

The Holy Spirit will help us to make these changes. I recently prayed asking the Spirit to nudge me when I speak or act in a selfish manner.

Endeavoring to be selfless,

Dawn

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Best for Last

You've heard the story about Jesus turning water into wine. There are many reasons it is significant, especially since it was His first miracle. But there is something very important which was said after this miracle that applies to you and I today--something that defines our destiny.

The Bible says, "When the master of the feast had tasted the water that was made wine, and did not know where it came from (but the servants who had drawn the water [for Jesus] knew), the master of the feast called the bridegroom. And he said to him, 'Every man at the beginning sets out the good wine, and when the guests have well drunk, then the inferior. You have kept the good wine until now!'" (John 2:9-10).

God has given us a glimpse of humanity from His perspective.

THE BEGINNING

The master of the feast said, "Every man at the beginning sets out the good wine..." If we go back to the beginning of time, we know God looked upon His creation of man and said, "It is good." God was pleased. But we also know it wasn't long before everything crumbled.

Man fell into sin, and we now have an orderly account called the Old Testament, which documents God's plan to prepare for the day He would set things right again.

YOU AND I

And this is where our story (or should I say our destiny) becomes significant. The master of the feast then said, "You have kept the good wine until now!" You and I represent the good wine! So we could say, God saved the BEST for last!

And did you catch the comparison of wines? You and I are anything but inferior. In other words, we are not lower in rank, degree, place, or position! In the eyes of God, we are the cream of the crop!

This is why your understanding of righteousness is so important. Remember the definition: Righteousness is right-standing with God and the ability to stand before Him without guilt or inferiority as if you had never sinned.

YOU ARE NOT INFERIOR

We are the "best for last" because God gave us a gift the former never had--the gift of righteousness! The precious blood of Jesus Christ sets us apart. And faith in His Name gives us delegated authority. The last word we should ever use to describe ourselves is inferior.

You are not inferior, mediocre, half-baked, low grade, or insignificant! As a child of God, you are the very opposite:  first-rate, superior, first-class, foremost, and the best! [tweet]

So that means it is time to get out of our Old Testament thinking. It's okay to learn from Job, but quit comparing yourself to him. He would've given anything to trade shoes with you!

I recently had a counseling appointment with a woman who was struggling with forgiveness. But I soon found her problem: she wanted Old Testament justice instead of New Testament life. You can't have both.

OLD WINE SKINS

This is why Jesus said, "Nor do men put new wine into old wineskins, or else the wineskins break, the wine is spilled, and the wineskins ruined. But they put new wine into new wineskins, and both are preserved" (Matthew 9:17). Do you catch the analogy?

You are the new wine! You are children filled with the Holy Spirit of promise and the gift of righteousness. You can't put that into Old Testament theology and expect to hold up. You (and your stinking-thinking) are going to crumble if you continue to see yourself as inferior.

So make this confession today: "I am the best for last. Because I am the righteousness of God in Christ."

Blessings!

Daphne Delay

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Learning Respect From The Bear

Growing up, my daddy’s nickname was “The Bear.”  Even though small in stature, my daddy could let out a mean growl if he needed to and in that moment, things would come to order.  My daddy demanded respect and honor, and this taught my brother and me to fear the Lord.  I am reminded of a story in 2 Kings 2:23-24 about the prophet Elisha and how important God views honoring and respecting your elders.    

”Then he went up from there to Bethel; and as he was going up the road, some youths came from the city and mocked him, and said to him, ‘Go up, you baldhead! Go up, you baldhead!’   So he turned around and looked at them, and pronounced a curse on them in the name of the Lord. And two female bears came out of the woods and mauled forty-two of the youths.”

Thank God we live under a new covenant of grace and mercy, because the generation in which we live might have many more reports of bear attacks due to dishonor for authority!  The Bible says in 1 Peter 5:5: 

“Likewise you younger people, submit yourselves to your elders. Yes, all of you be submissive to one another, and be clothed with humility, for God resists the proud, but gives grace to the humble.”  

This is one of the greatest qualities we can instill in this next generation—to honor and respect authority.  By doing this we will teach them to honor and fear the Lord and we will produce a generation that is full of wisdom and safe from the enemy. 

Be Blessed!

Trish Yanney

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The Art of Relationships

“The art of relationships requires that a man who is very different from his woman finds common ground with her and vice versa. We are meant to balance each other by attracting people whose strengths may be our weaknesses. Together as a result of our differences and unique distinctions, we complement each other. Understanding only comes when you stand under a real desire to know, love, and comprehend the other person, embracing the uniqueness of who they are.”  - TD Jakes

26 plus years later, five lovable children, twelve irresistible grandchildren, my husband and I still embrace the uniqueness of each other, who we are, and the unique connection we have together.   I have evolved with my husband and we have become best friends.    

 In our early years of marriage, we began to discover rather quickly that we had our differences.  Our personality types, our strengths, our weaknesses, our backgrounds, our interests and even the gifting and anointing on our lives were so different.  We soon realized that these differences were ultimately designed to complement and bring great balance to each other and our marriage and were not ever intended to pull us apart.  We were created both similarly and yet differently in order to fulfill God's purposes.  Often times, I humorously remind my husband to ‘come into my world for a bit’ when I want him to take interest in something that I’m solely interested in and bless his darling heart, ‘he’s not.’ 

I believe it’s so very important for us, ladies, to invest in our marriage relationship – after all, marriage is the second greatest decision we’ll ever make after receiving Jesus Christ into our life.  God desires for our marriages to be like days of heaven on earth and I can honestly say, I’m living proof of that and you can have that too!  Marriage is one of God’s greatest institutions on the earth and it’s worth investing in.  Over the years, I’ve invested in our marriage by collecting, reading/studying some of the best-selling books on marriage.  One that I believe is a must read to add to your book collection is “The Five Love Languages” by Gary Chapman.    

 Did you know that even in the area of love, our love languages can be as different as French and English, but once discovered can be the key to a long lasting, loving marriage?  Just a little nugget from this illuminating book:  “We must be willing to learn our spouse's primary love language if we are to be effective communicators of love.” – Wow!

Jesus says it plainly in John 8:32: “And ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free.”  Knowing the truth and properly using what we know will set our marriages free (information is a powerful thing.)   Freedom is the direct result of knowledge.  Now I can see why Paul prayed the Ephesians prayer that they eyes of our understanding be enlightened.  Knowledge (love language knowledge) and its proper use are powerful and win battles!  I made a quality decision a long time ago, that my marriage would never perish because of a lack of knowledge.

Ladies, may you experience a real desire to know, love, and comprehend your spouse, embracing the uniqueness of who they are in your life today and may your marriage be like days of heaven on earth.         

~Mary McIver

  

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Hit the Pause Button!

Have you ever been so busy that you thought you didn't have time to receive instruction and wisdom from God? That is probably me everyday! However, we see in I Samuel 9 that just like Saul, we can hear from Him in just a moment of time, even in the midst of "busy-ness," if we will but just take a moment to stop and listen. That's good news! The prophet of the Lord, Samuel, had encountered Saul and knew by the Spirit of the Lord that he was to be Israel's king. It was the prophet's job to anoint him as king. Samuel told him to come with him and that he would send him on his way.

I Samuel 9:27, "As they were going down to the edge of town, Samuel said to Saul, 'Tell the servant to go on ahead of us'-and the servant did so-'but you stay here awhile, so that I may give you a message from God.'" (emphasis mine) NIV

We see that they were in the middle of walking on their way out of town. They were busily going on their way, on a mission from the Lord. And Samuel told Saul, "...but you stay here awhile, so that I may give you a message from the Lord." (emphasis mine)

I believe this story shows us how we can receive guidance from the Lord in the midst of all of our busyness-on the run or in the middle of a crowd (or children) or activity we happen to be involved in. You see, we can't always take days off or even a day to go off by ourselves on a retreat to get direction and guidance from the Lord. But every single one of us can stop and take a few moments to ask the Lord for help and then listen and recognize His voice and receive wisdom from Him right when we need it the most. The operative word in verse 27 is "awhile." That means literally a short space in time. That's all it takes!

Just this week, I was hurriedly readying myself for a busy day of errands. I knew I would be gone for most of the day and needed to be out the door and on my way to an appointment that I didn't want to be late for. As I put the finishing touches on my hair, I paused for awhile and asked the Lord for His help. For I knew I needed to resolve an issue we were having with one of our children before leaving and I didn't know what to do. So I asked the Lord for wisdom. He immediately spoke to my heart and told me what I needed to hear. Now, it wasn't what I necessarily wanted to hear, but I figured the Lord knew better than I did, so I followed through and obeyed His word. Have you ever heard the Lord tell you something and you didn't want to do it? Boy, I sure have! In this case with my son, it turned out better than what I could have ever imagined! Isn't that just like God? He is able to do exceedingly abundantly above all we can ask or imagine, according to His power that is at work within us! (Eph. 3:20) The key was in my stopping long enough, in a moment of time, to ask Him, listen, and then obey His whispering instructions to my heart.

I John 2:27 says, "As for you, the anointing you received from him remains in you, and you do not need anyone to teach you. But as his anointing teaches you about all things and as that anointing is real, not counterfeit - just as it has taught you, remain in him." NIV

By the anointing of the Holy Spirit living inside of you, you can be taught all things! Aren't you so thankful for the Holy Spirit living on the inside who teaches us?! I know I sure do need His help, guidance and wisdom on a daily basis! Remember in those busy times, to just stop and take a moment, awhile, and ask the Lord for His direction. It's kind of like hitting the pause button on an mp3 or CD player! He will have a message from heaven that is just right for you, for your situation, and it will be such a blessing in your life as you obey His word!

Pausing for His wisdom,
Kim Dillingham

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The Whole Family

The Whole Family

    "For this cause I bow my knees unto the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, Of whom the whole family in heaven and earth is named, That he would grant you, according to the riches of his glory, to be strengthened with might by his Spirit in the inner man..." Ephesians 3:14-16

Have you ever thought about how amazing it is to be a part of this people in the earth today the Bible calls "the body of Christ?" Just to know that when I worship and pray and serve, I am not just doing it alongside the other folks at my local church, but in God's eyes I am working in the harvest alongside people of many different nations, and many different tongues who are called by His name. Knowing this puts a very different perspective on the way we see things as believers. 

For example, when we are admonished of things in Scripture such as to love each other fervently (1 Peter 1:22), bear one another's burdens (Galatians 6:2), or to pray for one another (James 5:16)...who is God talking about? The people we see every week in church, our Christian friend at work, or maybe even the Christians we've met through social media like Facebook?

There is a cry in my heart for us as believers to realize that Christ's body is so much bigger, and our responsibilities extend so much further than that! I am currently praying for a Christian woman in Sudan who is being persecuted for her faith. I have never met her and likely never will, but she is my sister in Christ and she is in desperate need of the grace and favor of God to prevail in her life, for great strength and courage, and for protection for herself and her 2 children. I saw her story in the news and immediately the Holy Spirit prompted me to begin praying for her. When I pray I call out her name as my sister Mariam, because that is who she is in God's heart and in my own. Because I am aware of who my "whole family" is spiritually speaking, I am able to pray with a faith and passion that is equal to the way I would pray for my own earthly family. 

Whether we are speaking of our fellow believers across the aisle, around the corner, or around the world, I ask that we would each pray and ask God to open our eyes and fill our hearts with compassion for our brothers and sisters in Christ who need our fervent love and support in so many ways. Let's allow God to pour through each of us in love, prayers, financial support and any other ways the Holy Spirit leads us to reach out and allow God to minister through us so that "the whole family" will know the great riches of His love. Imagine the strength we can bring to the body as we each follow His leading and simply do our part in His great plan in the earth!

No matter what country we are in and what our current situations look like, we need each other just like every family does. Let's flood heaven with praises and petitions on behalf of each other and lift up our missionaries, church leaders, fellow believers and the harvest of souls waiting to be won across the globe as we watch God fill the earth with His glory!

Your sister in Christ,

Debbie Beck

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I Hate Debt!

It's true; I confess - I hate debt. It's not that I think it is wrong, or sinful, or unethical - I just don't like it for myself. Beyond a mortgage, debt is a real bother to me.

However, due to some recent circumstances, we have had a significant increase to our debt load. This weighs on me a lot. I want it paid off and the sooner the better.  Because I am a number cruncher and actually enjoy that type of thing, I can spend a lot of time devising and analyzing plans to get rid of the debt.

As I was conversing with God about this matter one day (and I do nearly everyday), He led me to Matt. 6. I realize that when the scripture was written, there were not chapters, verses, headings, etc., but I found it interesting that in the latter verses of chapter 6, one heading is 'Jesus Teaches About Money', followed by the next heading of 'Jesus Teaches About Worry'. Hmmm, that's a message right there!

When I began reading the section on worry, I noted that verse 25 specifically cautions against worry. The remaining scriptures in that passage are in reference to the provision of our everyday needs. Worrying about money and/or provision is not a new thing....it's been going on for centuries! :o)

Our word worry is translated from the word merizo which means 'to divide into parts'. The word suggests a distraction, a preoccupation with things, causing anxiety, stress, and pressure. That's exactly what worry does. It causes us to be distracted, to feel anxious and under pressure.

Thankfully, Jesus didn't just stop with telling us not to worry. He told us how to gain victory in this area with these 3 fundamental truths:

1.   vs 32 - your Heavenly Father knows you need them. He is God - He knows full well our needs. Though circumstances catch us off guard, they are not a surprise to He who sits on the throne!
2. vs 33 - "seek ye first, His kingdom and His righteousness and all these things will be added unto you." It doesn't get much simpler than this - we focus on God's business and He'll focus on ours. Moreover, we are not to be distracted with our daily needs while we are focusing on the Kingdom!
3. vs 34 - don't worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. One day at a time, that's the way we are to live. God have the Israelites manna for one day. Jesus taught us to pray, "give us this day our daily bread. [emphasis mine]" We need to learn to live in the moment.

As I have meditated on these truths, I have begun to experience peace regarding our additional debt. Although the desire for it to be gone still exists, it is not a continuous burden for me. I know that God will take care of it in His time and with His method.

Many have experienced financial hardship in recent years. God is aware of your circumstances and He has your back. He knew this day was coming. Stay focused on Him and His Kingdom, living for the day in front of you, and know that our loving God has a plan and it is a good plan!

Grace & Peace,

Dawn

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Good Friday Reflections

I posted this blog exactly a year ago and wanted to share it again:

I have been reflecting today, Good Friday, on the sacrifice that Jesus made for the whole world. The History Channel aired a special about crucifixion, which I watched. They talked of Jesus and the excruciating pain he experienced as he suffered on the cross. We get the word "excruciating" from the word "crucifixion". It is the most horrific, gruesome way to die. But it was not just death, it was torture as well, and on display for all to see. It was a way to discourage uprisings against those in power. In effect, to say, if you get out of line, this is what will happen to you. Crucifixion was greatly feared. Juxtapose that to what the cross stands for today: salvation, hope, redemption, the most widely recognized symbol of Christianity.

They said on this special that aired today, that there was no comfortable position on the cross that Jesus would have ever been in. When he raised up to exhale, pain like lightning would shoot through his feet and legs. When he would breathe, the wounds on his back would be reopened as they rubbed against the rough wood of the cross. When he would support his weight with his leg muscles, he would be in tremendous pain. When he would let his hands support his body weight, unbearable pain would race through his hand, arms and shoulders.

He did this for me, for you. We see in John 19:27 that as he hung there on the cross suffering, he was concerned for his mother's welfare as he told John, "Here is your mother." And it says that John took a widowed Mary into his home to care for her. We were certainly on his mind as he suffered and died. He could have, at any moment, commanded legions of angels to deliver him, yet he chose not to. To understand what crucifixion actually means and all that it entails makes me love Him all the more!! I stand in complete awe at the plan and unconditional love of God to redeem and reconcile mankind back to Himself!!

When David penned these words about his own suffering, it was prophetic of Christ's suffering on the cross:

Psalm 22:14-18: "I am poured out like water, and all my bones are out of joint. My heart has turned to wax; it has melted away within me. 15 My strength is dried up like a potsherd, and my tongue sticks to the roof of my mouth; you lay me in the dust of death. 16 Dogs have surrounded me; a band of evil men has encircled me, they have pierced my hands and my feet. 17 I can count all my bones; people stare and gloat over me. 18 They divide my garments among them and cast lots for my clothing."

His sacrifice once and for all made the way for us to be cleansed from our sin and to be able to experience fullness of life in this life and in the life to come.

The sacrifice of Jesus on Good Friday purchased the resurrection on Sunday. What an incredible price had to be paid! Dear Lord, let us fully be able to grasp how much you love us and know that all we have to do to be right with you, is to accept the sacrifice you so freely give us.

If you don't know Jesus as your Savior, I can't think of a better time than Good Friday to ask Him to be the Lord of your life! All you need to do is pray this simple prayer and mean it from your heart: "Lord Jesus, I ask you to forgive me of my sins. Come into my heart and life and save me. I give you complete control of my life. I say that you are my Lord and I believe that God raised you from the dead. Thank you for saving me. In Jesus' name, Amen."

If you prayed that prayer, please go and tell someone. Tell them how God has changed your life! You can even comment below and let us know what God is doing in your life!

~ Kim Dillingham

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