Discernment Needed!

 

Navigating in dense fog can be dangerous. We need to be able to see clearly. Caution, skill, and wisdom are needed to stay safe. 

I'm seeing a "fog" settle over hearts and minds that is preventing them from seeing God's Word clearly, and it's making it dangerous to navigate the cultural landscape. Thinking is becoming clouded. Spiritual discernment is desperately needed. 

I am more and more alarmed every day to see those that say they are Christ-followers not discerning truth from error, good from evil, wrong from right; they are either unable or unwilling to recognize wickedness for what it is. The ability to do this comes from an acceptance and understanding of Who God really is, and this “knowledge of the Holy” comes only from God's Holy Word (Prov 9:10). He alone is the Authority for what is good and what is evil, what is wrong and what is right. He is the Creator of all, and Savior of all that believe. He is not a god of mankind's own making, and neither is His authoritative Word. Man left to himself to determine good from evil with no guide, no moral or virtuous foundation, creates his own ideas regarding wickedness. The very essence of evil is to say God is not needed to determine good from evil, that man can do that for himself. 

When faced with the cultural issues of our day, how do you determine what practices and policies are acceptable? When considering the current sociopolitical climate, how do you determine what is righteous and Christ-honoring and what is not? Who or what is most heavily influencing your thinking, influencing the way you view everything from relationships, to worship, to entertainment and leisure, to education, to politics? How do you determine what is wrong and what is right, what is good and what is evil? And why does this matter? 

It matters because we are called to speak Jesus to people, sharing the rich love of God. We are to love, pray for, and show kindness to, even our enemies (Matt 5:44 ), being salt and light in this world (Matt 5:13-14). We are called to be holy as God is holy (1 Peter 1:15). This means we must be able to recognize evil for what it is, and be able to stand strong against its power (Ephesians 6:10-11). We are to resist the devil and be aware of his tactics (James 4:7, 2 Corinthians 7:14-15). 

But how do we resist the devil when we are embracing devilish ways of thinking and behaving? And while it becomes increasingly the norm to slander, slur, bash, and trash-talk anything and everyone we might disagree with, there is no place in the life of a believer for that kind of conduct or conversation. The Scripture calls for a better way (I Cor 13). We do not use Satan's tactics and methods to fight spiritual battles. And good versus evil (God’s definitions of) is most certainly a spiritual battle we are engaged in. 

Discernment, however, is grossly lacking today. Even believers, who have the Word of God as their guide, are either unable or unwilling to view all of life with a biblical worldview. A biblical worldview calls for everything to be viewed through the lens of Biblical Truth. Everything. From relationships, to worship, to lifestyle choices, to education, to politics, to social and cultural norms, to entertainment. For the believer, God's Truth is to guide our lives, be the basis for our choices, and govern our thoughts, attitudes and actions. When faced with the questions of whether or not I should align myself with some ideology or philosophy; when determining who or what I should allow to influence my thinking; when deciding what or what not to believe, the follower of Christ should turn to the authoritative Word of God. What God says should matter and take priority over every other way of thinking that is fighting for a place (Col 1:13, 18). 

At the very root of evil lies a mindset, a philosophy or way of thinking that does not include God. The Bible speaks of the wicked as “not having God in any of his thoughts”. We all have been guilty of making a rash decision and not first praying about it. We’ve lashed out and reacted without giving thought to what God’s Word says about the right way to respond. But I’m speaking of a way of living and thinking that characterizes all of life, not a moment of failure or wrong choice.  In several verses of Psalm 10 we find some answers about what characterizes wickedness:

1)A way of making decisions and choices with no thought of how God views that choice according to His Word;

2)No regard for consequences or accountability before God;  

3)A belief system that is anti-God (this goes beyond just not including God in a thought process or behavior; it speaks of a philosophy/ideology that is openly and actively at work opposing God and anything He or His Word might represent especially as it relates to Light and Life, i.e. does it allow for, value and protect life; does it rejoice in deeds of darkness, etc…).

There are so many caught up today in philosophical systems of belief and practice that may not even realize that wickedness is reigning and they are aligning themselves with it. They are good people trying to be kind and generous and supportive and hard working, and considerate and compassionate. And as believers we are to be all of those things. But Satan and the world-system is well-versed in calling good evil and evil good. Satan and his ministers can even transform themselves into appearing to be angels of light and ministers of good and right (2 Cor 11: 14-15). Discernment to know the difference is desperately needed. Otherwise we may find that God, whom we believe we are serving, in actuality is being dishonored and the wicked favored (Psalm 82:2). 

Believer, be discerning. Jesus promised that the Spirit would teach us and guide us into all Truth. Allow the Spirit of God to use the Word of God to teach you, guide you, and open your eyes to good and evil (John 14).  We are to keep our eyes on Jesus, our gaze fixed on Him in order to filter the pure and right from the ungodly and wicked. We need to study the Scripture to show ourselves approved before God and not be ashamed (2 Tim 2:15). We have to be on guard as to who and what our greatest influences are. Satan's tactics are to confuse and mislead and divide even believers one with another. 

Political parties will come and go, cultural norms will change, social practices are fluid. But God's Truth does not change. It is a trusted guide. We are to align ourselves with His Truth. We are to examine our life choices and philosophies to make sure they align with Scripture, not popular opinions, personal preferences, or political parties and philosophical ideologies. Just a slight shift in our focus, taking our eyes off of Jesus, can change our attitudes and activities from godly to ungodly before even realizing how influenced we have become by the wicked ideologies and philosophies of the world. 

“A final word: Be strong in the Lord and in His mighty power. Put on all of God’s armor so that you will be able to stand firm against all strategies of the devil. For we are not fighting against flesh-and-blood enemies, but against evil rulers and authorities of the unseen world, against mighty powers in this dark world, and against evil spirits in the heavenly places. Therefore, put on every piece of God’s armor so you will be able to resist the enemy in the time of evil. Then after the battle you will still be standing firm.”  Ephesians 6: 10-13

Sunflowers and Sonshine

Sunflowers. They make me smile. They're just, happy, aren't they? 

August. The beginning of another school year right around the corner...for many that's only a week away as many start early August now. (Not a fan, but that's for another article!) 

The mad rush for back-to-school supplies, new school clothes, getting in those last minute vacations in these last (what should be) lazy days of summer. The dread of winter before even being able to enjoy the beauty of fall! It can all be so stressful. 

The sunflowers are a beautiful reminder to just slow down, breathe, and really enjoy these days rather than spend them trying to look ahead, plan, stress, cram. 

Yes, the pace picks up. My routine will definitely change. A Bluegrass song comes to mind with the line, "I can't add more days to my life, so I'll add more life to my days" (Doyle Lawson and Quicksilver; More Life to My Days"). 

That's my goal, to stop and consider the sunflowers. They're always looking to the sun and just...being beautiful. Shining in their season. And, to add more life to my days. Not "busyness", but life. I want to soak up the life in every season and make the most of every day----close communion with the Savior, the companionship of friends, embracing the beauty all around me in Creation, and the love of precious family. 

God makes abundant life available, and sprinting through life not enjoying its simple joys can leave me weary and worn. 

Yes it is August. Another year almost gone. But before you race ahead, stop and determine to be in the moment. Breathe deeply. Smile.

Consider the sunflowers. 😊

Star of Wonder

 I'm amazed each year how the messages of Christmas seem to find me exactly where I am in my  needy place. As I read it with a prayerful heart in anticipation, He opens my eyes to the wonder of it all, all over again. 

As I open my heart, the Lord speaks ever so gently. It may be the simple but bold message “do not be afraid”. It may be the message of Immanuel, God with us, assurance of His promise to always be with me. It has been about seeing the wise men find Jesus, going home differently than they came. Oh the change that comes after an encounter with the very Son of God! 

This year it has been about the star. “His star” (Matthew 2:2), led the wise men on their journey. They were given the guidance they needed. They were led to Jesus. 

There are so many unanswered questions that come up during this journey, so much I don't always understand. That guidance is still desperately needed. But knowing that God is faithful to provide exactly what I need, when I need it, is a comfort and encouragement in the Darkness that can surround me. What I need is to get ever closer to Jesus. And with all that life brings my way…every joy, every heartbreak, He is forever guiding me closer to Him. 

As we look to Him in faith, the comfort of His guidance is there. It may appear as bright as the star that led the wise men, or as subtle as a whisper in the wind. The Star* is faithful and His paths can be trusted. As we believe His Word, embrace His grace and follow on, He gives wisdom, answers the hard questions, and gives grace, patience, acceptance, peace, and comfort when the answers don't come. Whatever we need, it's in Jesus.

Take another step. Keep getting closer. 

Oh God, with Your help I'll keep following the Star until You lead me home.

“A Star will rise from Jacob…” Numbers 24:17

 Oh Lord, You are my Lamp. The Lord lights up my darkness.  2 Samuel 22:29 NLT

How quickly the dark cloud can settle over me, and I find myself fighting to get out from under its oppressive weight. For someone that has dealt with mild depression for much of my life, I recognize the triggers; I am just not always able to avoid them. I am so grateful God knows me inside and out. He loves me and understands me and knows right where to meet me in these moments.

Like, the Sunday evening I did not want to go back to church. And as a pastor’s wife that’s not the best place to be, as you might well understand. But I was angry, hurt, grieving over a situation, compounded by other things I had already been dealing with and mulling over. Plus, my summer vacation was over…as a teacher it was time to head back to school and I wasn’t ready for that either. Things were about to get crazy busy again.

Silently praying on the way to church, picking out hymns of trust and praise to have ready for the service, I fought back tears and just waited on the Lord to minister grace to my needy heart. 

And He did.

My pastor husband decided to do a follow-up from the morning’s message on “Your Story” by inviting anyone that would like to do so, to share “their story”. As I listened to the stories of God’s guidance in lives, His wisdom given when needed for a decision, His grace that sustained through all the unanswered questions, His forgiveness when wayward, His peace when confused and unsettled, and His welcoming arms for those seeking restoration. In some situations, God had even chosen to physically heal. And there was sweet comfort for those that had experienced loss. 

Of course the tears started flowing; I couldn’t hold them back. But they were cleansing tears, the kind that leave you feeling humbled and refreshed and encouraged and grateful, all at the same time. So I let them come, while sharing some of my own heart. 

The dark cloud had no chance to stall out over me that time. God used His sweet presence and precious church family to minister to me and “lighten my darkness” before it had a chance to get a major grip on me. It was so wonderful to be reminded of how great and good He is. And then, my devotion the next morning in Our Daily Bread was about the Lord doing this very thing!! Coincidence? No, not with God. He definitely turned my darkness into light once again. What a Savior!!

The next day was a new day, full of hope and joy. Thank You Jesus. 

Wrestling with God

 Then Jacob was left alone; and a Man wrestled with him until the breaking of day. Genesis 32:24 (nkjv)

When reading this narrative in Genesis 32, it is fascinating to understand that this ‘man’ that wrestled with Jacob was none other than the Lord Himself. And what’s more? It said the Lord came to Jacob, when he was alone, and wrestled with him all night long. 

Jacob declared he had wrestled with God, seeing Him “face to face” (32:30); Jacob was told by this man he had wrestled with God…and man (the God-man, pre-incarnate Christ) and won (32:28). Jacob recognized he was wrestling with Someone who had the power and authority to bless him (32:26) and he would not let go until the blessing came.  

Jacob was hanging on for dear life, wrestling with God for this blessing He desperately needed, and at the Lord’s touch Jacob was a changed person. He took away a couple of reminders of this change: a new name, and a new walk. He would from this point be called Israel; and he would have a limp, or halt, that would follow him for the rest of his life, a reminder of the Lord’s touch during the struggle. 

Oh the moments, the seasons, I have wrestled with God, all the while not realizing He was wrestling with me. He has come to me in some of the most alone and desperate moments and just allowed me to grab hold, struggling and wrestling, yes. But holding on to Him knowing He would not let me go. I have questioned His will and His ways. I have wondered at His timing. Do these things that are weighing so heavily on me not concern Him? Why would He not intervene, bringing change in situations that, from my perspective, so desperately need it? His people suffer and are mistreated. Wrong is ignored, even championed and promoted as godly necessity. His work is negatively affected. It does not thrive, making a positive impact as it has the potential to do. Workplace bullying, spiritual abuse and intimidation, manipulation and control, unethical practices; these have no place in God’s work, yet I have witnessed it, experienced it…a travesty to the Gospel. 

In these moments I am drawn back to the truth that I serve a great and good God. Just this morning in a favorite devotional I was reminded that He is Lord…over His creation, over His church, over everything (Jesus Always, Embracing Joy in His Presence; Sarah Young). He could certainly intervene, and in a powerful and miraculous way. And wouldn’t that be quite the experience? To see God at work in His great and glorious power, righting wrongs and injustices, providing vindication. And then, the Spirit of God quietly reminds me that Who He is, is far more glorious and awesome than any experiences I might have. And in saving me I have experienced the greatest and most amazing change He is capable of.  

I must trust Him. 

When these situations assault me I will dive deeper into His timeless Truths, allowing them to guide me and keep me focused; I will fervently and faithfully pray for all concerned and affected, including myself; I will commit to continue to serve Him and others as He gives me grace and opportunity. I will embrace the beauty of His healing and keep moving forward along the path He has for me. I will cling to Him, confident He is actually holding me. 

And I know He will bless me, again.

Bless me with His sweet, comforting, healing Presence. 

Bless me with continued growth and change by His Spirit. 

Bless me with family and friends and community that are seeking the same things and can come alongside, supporting, encouraging.

Bless me with peace, peace in trusting Him, waiting on Him, knowing He will one day right all wrongs, provide eternal healing, and glory beyond understanding, even if I don’t get the immediate answers I am praying for.  

Have you wrestled with God lately?

Just Stay

The snow was falling as if in slow motion. It was so very beautiful; comforting, and calming.

It was still extremely cold, roads still messy. So we were staying in yet again for another day. “Stay in! Stay warm! Stay safe!” Those words had been shared a lot over the past few days as the winter storm made its way through the area.  

Stay. I took out my journal and started considering the many ways the Lord would have me consider this simple, profound principle; stay. 

Stay calm. 

Stay calm, resting in the comfort and beauty of the Lord’s sweet presence, no matter what a day brings. 

I’ve learned a few things living here in these West Virginia

mountains the last 30 years, and one is that weather is something totally unpredictable. They do the best they can with the tools and technology available, but when it comes down to it, the Creator is still ultimately in charge. A storm like this one, and the one just a few days prior, calls for awareness, preparedness, and definitely the ability to stay calm. Trees can come down, power may go out, and in some places the roads are impassable. The better choice is to stay in, stay warm, and stay safe as much as possible. 

We find many of these same admonishments in God’s Word; encouragements, warnings, guidance, counsel. 

“The instructions of the Lord are perfect, reviving the soul. The decrees of the Lord

are trustworthy, making wise the simple. The commandments of the Lord are right, 

bringing joy to the heart. The commands of the Lord are clear, giving insight for

living. Reverence for the Lord is pure, lasting forever. The Laws of the Lord are true;

        each one is fair. They are more desirable than gold, even the finest gold. They are

        sweeter than honey, even honey dripping from the comb. They are a warning to your

        servant, a great reward for those who obey them.” 

Psalms 19:7-8

We plan. We assume. We presume to know what a day will bring. And it is right to plan, think ahead, prepare. But in the end, when things don’t turn out like we planned? When life doesn’t land us where we thought we would be? When the day is interrupted with the unexpected, when sadness sneaks in, when grief attempts to steal joy, when frustrations mount with each disappointment, when any given day holds more than we can handle? What then?

Cast all your cares on Him, for He cares for you (I Peter 5:7). He really does care. And when we choose to stay calm and rest in that care, He clears the cobwebs, and we can better see the situation for what it is. He comforts the soul, and we can feel His love and presence when we need it most. 

Just now, like those snowflakes that appeared to be in slow motion, slow down and be still in His presence. Direct your thoughts to His Word. Talk to Him, or just whisper His name until the calm takes over and the joy begins to bring a smile to your heart. Let Him take control of the moment. 

“Be still, and know that I am God!” Psalms 46:10

Stay calm.

Up from the Dirt

 

“If things are tough, remember that every flower that ever bloomed had to go through a whole lot of dirt to get there.”

I love this quote by Barbara Johnson. Remembering that the process matters as much as the end result is not always welcomed. But it is so necessary. Life is just as much about the journey as the destination. 

The challenge is enjoying the journey when the going gets rough. Where is the joy when life seems to be all uphill, throwing the unexpected and undesired at us like pop-up downpours in the spring? 

Determine you will look at that uphill climb and say, “Let’s do this, Lord!” I am more than a conqueror with you as my faithful Guide and Companion. Turn your face upward in the downpour and let Jesus wash over you with His peace and promises, not forgetting to praise Him in the turbulent times. He knows where you are. He knows what you need. That Truth often fades when the need is greatest. 

The beauty of flowers in bloom always makes me smile…when I stop to notice them. I especially love jonquils and other wildflowers. And rarely do I think about the seeds and bulbs under the pile of dirt BEFORE that beautiful bloom appears. I’m just lost in the end result…the colors, the shapes, the fragrance! 

Yes, we may feel at any given time we’re lost under a heavy clod of dirt just weighing us down. The weight of what we are carrying leaves us wondering when we’ll see the light of day and the pressure will lift.  But Jesus is in the process! He is the One that plants us where we’re supposed to be and cares for us. Don’t forget He is right there with you, giving you the strength to keep pushing your way up through the dirt. He sees the end result, the beauty in the struggle and the sweet fragrance He knows our lives will be —-if we can trust Him to do His work in and through us. If we can just trust His plan, His timing, His care, that He is ever growing us; that He can bring something beautiful and meaningful from it all. 

His presence on the journey makes all the difference. We are setting ourselves up for failure to try to go it on our own. Settle in on His promises. Embrace His peace. Trust His plan. The time to bloom again will come. 

We just have to trust Him while still in the dirt. 

“And we know that God causes everything to work together for the good of those who love God and are called according to His purpose for them.” Romans 8:28

Note: The pic is from Thanksgiving Point, Lehi, Utah. A gorgeous place to visit if you ever have the chance! A favorite place when visiting our son and his family living in Spanish Fork, UT.