What Will Jesus Be?

The question that was asked this week to me was "Ms D, how will Jesus come back, will He be the same as the first time - as a baby?" When I answered, "No, this time He is going to return as a conqueror and king," the student did not understand and I think did not believe. This led to the question, "how do you know?"


I know because Jesus is alive! He did not stay on the cross or in the tomb. He rose from the died, ascended into Heaven and one day He will return. I know because God tells me through His inspired word in Revelation 19:11-20. He gives an awe inspiring picture of the return of our King.

I saw heaven open and there before me was a white horse, whose rider is called Faithful and True. With justice he judges and makes war. His eyes are like blazing fire, and on his head are many crowns. He has a name written on him that no one knows but he himself. He is dressed in a robe dipped in blood, and his name is the Word of God.

This is not the picture of a child or a baby. This is the picture of someone who is in charge, in control and someone who is here on a mission. Jesus' purpose has changed with His second coming. His purpose the first time was to bring forgiveness. When He comes again His purpose is to bring judgement and victory! Are you ready?

You Are My Shield...

Fear of man will prove to be a snare, but whoever trusts in the Lord is kept safe. (Proverbs 29:25)


But you are a shield around me, O Lord; you bestow glory on me and lift up my head. (Psalm 3:3)


The words in these two verses I want to focus on are safe and shield.  Recently God kept me safe. He was my shield, literally.


My mom and I had to drive 30 miles to Tacoma to pick up transcripts for work. It wasn't a trip I wanted to make. It was a waste of a day to make the drive up and back. It was a waste of money for gas and a waste of money for the transcripts. But I did it.


So, we head up I-5 and when we got to Tacoma there is an area of the freeway where there are multiple on-ramps and exits. There are a lot of changing lanes and slowing down and speeding up. It is usually bumper to bumper. A year or so ago the traffic flow was changed and redirected. We got off the exit for the City Center which is now about a quarter - half a mile from the actual exit. I exited and I thought where am I going there's only one other car here? Did I make a wrong turn? This are is usually packed. People are fighting to get over onto the freeway. The freeway is full but no one's on the exit.


This is when God's hand, God's shield was seen. As we were going down the road at 60mph, a truck and trailer flew pass us. Both were full and overflowing with construction materials. The truck was about 30-40 feet in front of us when a 10 foot and 4 foot board about 10 inches wide slid of the truck. We saw the longer board hit the road and splinter into pieces. The shorter board came at us. But instead of going through the front of our car, the board hit the ground in front of the bumper and bounced under my car. It hit the bottom and as far as we could tell everything was fine.


God was there that day. He shielded us from that accident. He kept people off that ramp so no one was injured or killed. He kept us safe. That board could have very easily have gone through the windshield, I could have slammed on my brakes and been rear-ended, or I could have swerved and rolled my car. But I did not have to because God kept me safe.

Legend of the Christmas Rose

During this time of year, we are bombarded with advertisement, commercials, and a frenzy of holiday shopping and the desire to purchase the right gift. I have begun to ask this year if we have truly lost the meaning of the Christmas season in the pursuit of the perfect gift to give. We will never find that gift online or at the mall. It cannot be bought for any price. The perfect gift is priceless and has already been given to us 2,000 years ago when Christ was born. All we have to do is accept what has already been given. 

While searching this week for items to put in our church's bulletin, I came across this legend. It spoke to my heart about what gift giving is all about, so I wanted to share it.

The Legend of the Christmas Rose
On a cold December night, everybody was coming to see their new Savior and brought Him all kinds of gifts and presents. The three Wise Men came in with their valuable gifts of myrrh, frankincense and gold and offered them to Baby Jesus. At that point, a shepherdess, Madelon, who had seen the wise men passing through, reached the door of the stable, to see the Child. However, being very poor and having brought nothing to offer to the child, she felt helpless and started weeping quietly at the sight of all the wonderful gifts that the Three Wise Men had got for the child. Earlier, she had searched, in vain, for flowers all over the countryside but there was not even a single bloom to be found in the bitter winter.

An angel outside the door was watching over her and knew about her fruitless search. He took pity on her and, when he saw her head drooped down in sorrow, decided to help her with a little miracle. He gently brushed aside the snow at her feet and where her tears had fallen, sprang a beautiful cluster of waxen white winter roses with pink tipped petals. Then he softly whispered into the shepherdess's ear that these Christmas roses are far more valuable than any myrrh, frankincense or gold, for they are pure and made of love. The maiden was pleasantly surprised when she heard those words and joyfully gathered the flowers and offered them to the Holy Infant, who, seeing that the gift was reared with tears of love, smiled at her with gratitude and satisfaction. Thus, the Christmas rose came to symbolize hope, love and all that is wonderful in this season.

(http://www.worldofchristmas.net/christmas-stories/legend-of-christmas-rose.html)

Give Thanks...

To me Thanksgiving is a day of family, friends and good food. It is one day out of 365 set aside for us to reflect on what we are thankful for. But it seems that it has become just another day on the calendar. Unfortunately, for many it has just become another day of work or a day to start Christmas shopping early. 


This year at dinner my mom ask what I imagine many families ask that day - What are you thankful for? I was stumped by the question this year because I was the last person at the table to answer and I wanted to say something different. Unfortunately, I drew a blank.


I know the answer to her question is late, but here it is. I am thankful for...

• My parents who love me and tolerate me. The ones who loved me, protected me, and taught me to be the person I am today.
• My brother who is always there for me; who I know is there even though we don't talk every day; who calls me at odd times just to say hey and catch up.
• My sister-in-law who sends random texts to me to brighten my day and to wish me a blessed day.
• My nephew who finally has a job he loves and that allowed him to be home with us for Thanksgiving day (Yeah!).
• My students who are the most awesome young adults on the planet; who make me smile, laugh and cry (sometimes all at the same time).
• New friends.
• Growth and maturing as our church goes through a transition period.
• New experiences - singing on the worship team and teaching Children's Church.
• But most of all, for my Lord and Savior Jesus Christ who gave the greatest gift and sacrifice by laying down His life so that I can have salvation and eternal life. And because He cares enough about me to walk with me daily.

I hope you had a wonderful Thanksgiving and that you found a few moments to reflect on what you are truly thankful for.

Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus. (I Thessalonians 5:18)

Psalm 23:4

Even though I walk
through the valley of the shadow of death
I will fear no evil,
for you are with me;
your rod and your staff,
they comfort me.

We read this verse in relationship to death and the journey we take when our time arrives.  We gain comfort to know that God will be there with us. 


But when I read it this time I saw it in a different light, with a new meaning. Why do we only look at this verse at a time of death? Why not take comfort from it in our daily lives?  


The Life Application Bible had a note that the verse could also read "through the darkest valley." Our darkest time is not always death. We go through times of highs (mountains) and lows (valleys) in our lives. Those valleys are not always a physical death. It could be pain, sickness, injury, conflict, etc. 


I have a reoccurring valley in my life. I am one who copes with migraines. They are the most excruciatingly painful things that I have experienced. I have prayed in the middle of them that God would either take away the pain or take me home to be with Him. It gives me great comfort to know that God is there with me at these dark time. I know that I am not alone when that debilitating pain is there. God is there when no one else can help me. 


Strength and comfort cannot overcome the valley of pain, sickness, injury or conflict, but just as God is there to get us through the valley of the shadow of death, He is there to get us through the other valleys too. Take comfort that you are not alone. Take comfort that God is there to defend you with His rod and to keep you from danger with His staff.

Psalm 23:2-3

Psalm 23:1 tells us that if we depend on God then we will not want. What more could we ask for? God does not leave us there. He offers even more in verses 2-3. He says "He will make me lie down in green pastures, he leads me besides still waters." When I hear green pastures and still waters I get a tranquil picture in my mind. I see myself stretched out in that green pasture next to the still waters. I hear the birds singing, I feel the gentle breeze blowing. I feel the weight of the world left off my shoulders. I fell renewed and refreshed.


God does not say He will put you in a car in rush hour traffic or chaos. He takes us to a calm and tranquil place. He offers restoration to our souls. That sounds great but what does it mean? To restore means to replace, to renew or revive, to return. How wonderful to know that when I am beaten down, torn apart by the world, God will replace, renew or return me to how He created me. He doesn't just leave me in the state I am in.


God offers this to all. All you have to do is accept Him as your Shepherd too.

Psalm 23:1

I have been reading Psalms and a couple days ago I read Psalm 23.  I have read this chapter before.  It is one of those that you memorize in Sunday School as a child and it is one that you hear at just about every funeral you go to.  But reading this chapter this time, I saw it in a whole new light.  The chapter is about God and who He is.  It is about what He gives us in the relationship we have with Him.


Psalm 23:1 identifies "The Lord is my shepherd."  "Sheep are dependent on the shepherd for provision, guidance, and protection" (Life Application Bible, p848).  That's what we are to do - depend on our Great Shepherd (Hebrews 13:20) or Chief Shepherd (1 Peter 5:4) for provision, guidance and protection.  The second part of verse 1 is so important.  It gives us hope when it says "I shall not be in want."  So if we depend on God for provision, guidance and protection then we will not want.  God will provide!  What more could we ask for?

Divine Appointments...

"My food," said Jesus, "is to do the will of him who sent me and to finish his work.  Do you not say, 'Four months more and then the harvest'?  I tell you, open your eyes and look at the fields.  They are ripe for harvest.  (John 4:34-35)


"God ordains divine appointments for each of us who will let Him work through us.  In God's planning, we will experience opportunities to witness to strangers and casual acquaintances" (The Local Church in Evangelism, p121).  God sets up and gives us opportunities to share our stories, share His story and to pray with people, but we have to be sensitive to when those situations happen.  We have to be aware that those situations are happening.  We need to take that step of faith and follow the leading of the Holy Spirit.


There is an old saying - "Opportunity doesn't knock twice."  This is so true.  Every opportunity is unique because people and circumstances are different.  Therefore we cannot get those opportunities back.  I can think of three opportunities I have missed.  Three times that I still think about today where the outcome could have been different.  Three times when I could have reached out to someone else in their time of need.


There is another saying - "Hindsight is twenty-twenty."  That is true for these three opportunities.  I did not see them at the time or I was not confident in the prodding I received from the Holy Spirit.  But I saw them after.  I felt the lost for not reaching out.  I have also learned from these that "we need to be spiritually alert to seize opportunities" (p121).  Colossians 4:2 says "Devote yourselves to prayer being watchful and thankful."  We need to be watchful for those opportunities to seize.  We need to work on our foresight being twenty-twenty instead of our hindsight.  We also need to pray for those opportunities.  "Pray for us, too, that God may open a door for our message, so that we may proclaim the mystery of Christ (Colossians 4:3).


So slow down and be watchful for those divine appointments to seize so you will not carry those regrets later.

The Confidence Factor...

This week in class part of what we read and talked about was motivation for evangelism.  The opening question of the chapter was "Why don't more Christians tell others about Jesus Christ?"  The answer was "For most people, the problem is lack of confidence" (The Local Church in Evangelism, p135).  I can understand that answer.  I am not a "people-person," an extrovert, outgoing, or whatever else you want to call it.  I am afraid to step out there where people are concerned.  I am afraid of standing out; I want to blend in.  I am not sure where it comes from but it is there.  Talking to people (strangers especially), making small talk is something I rely on God to help me with - to get me through.  I feel inadequate and intimidated about talking to people, let alone sharing Christ with them.  I fear not being an effective witness for Christ.  

The confidence with which the first Christians shared the message of Christ was not based on their own persuasive ability.  It came from knowing who Jesus is, their understanding of what God was doing, and the power of the Holy Spirit (p135).

I am confident in who Jesus is, I understand what God does and the power of the Holy Spirit.  I am confident that Jesus Christ is my Lord and Savior.  That He died for me.  That He loves me and wants the best for me.  He gets me through every day, every minute and every moment.  He gives me the strength and power to do all He has for me to do.  


So if I have confidence in Jesus and I rely on Him for everything that I do, why do I lack confidence?  Why am I afraid?  We talked in class about being politically correct.  We talked about how we become afraid because we might offend.  I think this is were my lack of confidence comes from.  Not only am I afraid of embarrassing myself, I am afraid of offending others.  But aren't I offending Jesus when I do not share?  Don't I offend Him when I am not obedient to His leading to share?


One thing that I have learned through this study is that all I have to do is share who Jesus is and what He has done for me.  Those are my thoughts that people can take or leave.  They are not given to offend but shared to encourage.  My part is not the hard part.  I am not the one who has to persuade or convince - that is the Holy Spirit's job.  My job is to be confident in Him, to share, and to be obedient to Jesus Christ.

Above all, believers need to be reminded that God is the One who saves people.  The Holy Spirit is the One who convinces of sin.  Jesus is the One who builds His church.  We simply take part in the work God is doing in people's lives (p149).

Pastors and Deacons...

The Bible says the pastor, minister, overseer, or what other name you choose to call them, is the spiritual leaders of the church.  But God does not say they are the leader of everything in the church.  As a matter of fact, God set up positions in the church to help lighten the load of pastors.  In Acts 6:1-7, Luke describes the choosing of the seven.  The disciples realized they could not do it all so they wisely chose to share the burden by choosing seven men to handle the administrative work.  They shared the burden.  Each group had their responsibility and they concentrated on their responsibility.

The choosing of the seven was quite possibly the beginning of deacons.  Deacon means “one who serves.”  The description of deacons is given I Timothy 6:8-13.  Deacons were leaders.  They were the ones who were doing the administrative work in the church.  They were the ones taking care of the physical needs of the church and the congregation.  Deacons have many of the same qualifications as the pastors or overseers (I Timothy 6:1-6).

So why do pastors today feel that they have to work alone?  Why do they feel they have to do or be in charge of everything?  Why do they not utilize the helpers God has sent to lighten their load?  Is it pride?  Lack of humility?

Peter tells us

Young men, in the same way be submissive to those who are older.  All of you, clothe yourselves with humility toward one another because
God opposes the proud
But gives grace to the humble. (I Peter 5:5)

 Peter is telling us, no matter our age, maturity or position, to be submissive to those above AND below us.  Listen to those we serve so we know how to better serve them.  Paul also says “…To submit to each of these and to everyone who joins in the work, and labors at it” (I Corinthians 16:16).  Paul does not distinguish who is to submit other than to say everyone who joins.  Everyone is a powerful word.  It does not leave anyone out.  One last thought… “Submit to one another out of reverence for Christ” (Ephesians 5:21).  

We are the Acrylic...

A year ago I learned to use a lathe.  My favorite things to turn on the lathe are pens.  The pens have become a present I give to my graduating seniors at school. Yesterday my brother, dad and I spent over six hours turning pens.

I love the time I spend at the lathe.  Not just because I get to create something that I think is beautiful but because it’s time I get to spend time with God.  With the noise from the machinery, we have to wear earplugs so there usually is not a lot of talking going on between those in the shop. There is time to focus and communicate with God.

During that time yesterday, the scripture about the potter and the clay came to mind.  In Isaiah 64:8 it says

Yet, O Lord, you are our Father.
We are the clay, you are the potter;
We are all the work of your hand.

The scripture could have just as easily said we are the acrylic and you are the turner. Just as you do not see the form and beauty in the lump of clay, you also do not see the form and beauty in the acrylic blank.  It is plain and in some cases even ugly, The colors are muted, but as you apply the tools to the acrylic you knock away the rough edges.  You slice away excess material.  As you smooth the surface until you find the shape that is pleasing. The colors and patterns that were hidden are revealed.  After achieving the desired shape, you sand over and over from course grit to an ultra fine sandpaper getting the acrylic even smoother than possible with the tools.  The final step before removing the acrylic from the lathe is to apply polish, polish and even more polish until it looks like glass.  As you apply each coat, you hold a cloth against the material and allow friction to heat the material and polish.  As it heats up, you see the shine and and it continues to smooth the surface.  Then you remove the blank and assemble it with other parts to create a pen.

This is similar to the process we go through as we mature and grow in Christ.  We begin as that plain, sometimes ugly, block.  God cuts and chips away at the rough edges.  He forms us and smoothes us to the shape He wants.  And sometimes He has to repeat this and turn off more material when a catch (chip or divot from a tool) occurs.  As we mature, He no longer has to use the tools.  He can move to the sandpaper and eventually the polish because He has  shaped us and all of our excess has been removed.

In the end, the beauty of the person has been revealed just as the beauty of the acrylic was revealed.  It is there for all to see.  The beauty of who God has created you to be.  The time and energy He is willing to put in is amazing.  The fact that He is persistent and constant is mind boggling.  That He never removes us from that lathe or throws us into the trash bin because we are too rough or we continually need refinement or won’t become smooth is unimaginable.  In the end, it is His persistent craftsmanship that shines through this process in our lives.

God is love...

Last week during class we got on the topic of God is love.  I think when most people think of God, they think about the following definitions from Merriam-Webster:

(1)   A strong affection for another arising out of kinship or personal ties.

(2)   Affection based on admiration, benevolence, or common interest.

But I think we need to expand our definition to two other ones that were given:

(1)   Unselfish loyal and benevolent concern for the good of another.

(2)   The fatherly concern of God for humankind.

Concern – that is what I think of when I think of God.  His concern for me!  That concern though is not all about hugs and kisses and pats on the head.  That concern is about whether or not I am on the right path, and what is best for me.  God wants to see us safe and secure.  He wants to be with us for eternity so He wants us to do what is right.

Imagine a child who only receives praise and hugs and kisses.  What do you see?  I see a brat.  Someone who has no self-control and who throws a temper-tantrum because they do not get their way.  Someone who has no friends and someone who others do not want to be around.  

Imagine a child who receives praise and hugs and kisses, but also receives correction and criticism.  What do you see?  I see a child who is loved, one who has friends and one who is willing to reach out to others.  One who sees beyond themself.  One who has a successful future.  One who is happy no matter what life throws their way.

Which child would you want to be?  Which life would you want?  What parent could you truly love in return?  God is the parent of child number two.  He only wants what is best for us, best for now and best for eternity.  So yes God is love – love of hugs and kisses and the love of concern for wanting only the best for His children.

Whoever does not love does not know God, because God is love (I John 4:8).

Laughter from God...

Anger:  Strong feelings of displeasure or hostility

Submission: Voluntary yielding to another

Humbled:  Not proud or arrogant; having a spirit of submission

(definitions from the Life Application Bible Dictionary/Concordance p2308, 2367, 2337)

These are three words that as humans we do not like in our lives.  Some feel that anger is wrong.  We should always be love and peace.  Submission must mean that we allow ourselves to be a doormat by someone.  And humble – Oh, we must be weak, a pushover.  But all three of these words show great strength in a Christian’s life.  All three of these make us more like Christ because these are things He showed in His life also.

Let me tell you how these three things led to joy, laughter and peace in my day today.   There are things going on in my church that I get upset and angry about.  The feelings I have over those things make me look for reasons not to go to church, they make me angrier when I get there and they make me physically ill.  I don’t know what I can do except pray.  So today while I prepared for church I prayed and I asked God to use me today, to be with me, to help me get through and to focus on Him.  Before I got out of the car at church, I prayed again and asked God to let those things that anger me to pass away, to help me focus on Him and to use me for His purpose.  Well, today God took that anger.  Not only did He take it but He replaced it.  He replaced it with laughter and peace.  When things began that I would have been fuming over in the past, God changed my focus away from that thing and placed it on Him.

Our mouths are filled with laughter,
Our tongues with songs of joy.
Then it was said among the nation,
“The Lord has done great things for them.”
The Lord has done great things for us,
And we were filled with joy. (Psalm 126:2-3)

 A time to weep and a time to laugh,
A time to mourn and a time to dance (Ecclesiastes 3:4)

 I would not have experienced this though if I had not humbled myself and voluntarily yielded (submitted) to God.  My focus would have been on earthly things not on God, and I would have missed out on a great gift from God.  And there is nothing more cleansing or refreshing then a good laugh from God.

Humble yourselves before the Lord, and He will lift you up. (James 4:10)

The Need for the Baptism...

“Wait for the gift my Father promised, which you have heard me speak about.  For John baptized with water, but in a few days you will be baptized with the Holy Spirit” (Acts 1:4-5).  This was the command Jesus gave to His disciples before He gave them the Great Commission.  Jesus said “But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you, and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth” (Acts 1:8).  Jesus did not just hand the disciples a job to do.  He also left them the tool and power to do the job and to do it right.

If the baptism of the Holy Spirit was not important then why did Jesus make it a command?  It seems to me that if He was saying ‘Hey, this power is available if you want it; if not don’t worry about it,’ then He would not have commanded His followers to receive it.  So to me this must be pretty important and something we need to pursue.

I guess the other question is do we need the empowerment of the Spirit today?  My answer would be yes, but am I alone?  Over the last several months I have heard people say things like the baptism in the Holy Spirit is not important, people still do good works without it, people still have active ministries without it, it is only a formality, etc.  I know people can do good works and God’s work without the baptism of the Holy Spirit but could you imagine how much greater they could be with that power working in them?  How much greater their ministry could be?

As far as I can tell our mission or commission has not changed since the early church.  We are to still share the good news of Jesus Christ with the world, reach out to those in need, and shine our light for those who are lost.  Why, if our mission is the same, should we feel that we do not need the same Helper, the same power, as those who actually met and lived and studied under our Lord and Savor Jesus Christ?  To me, we need that same power.  To me, witout it is like going into battle without ammunition or the correct ammunition.

Baptism in the Holy Spirit with Evidence...

I believe that the Bible is the inspired word of God.  I do not believe that it is just a collection of stories and illustrations that were assembled as a book for people to read.  I believe that the words, ideas, thoughts and history were given to the authors to write down by God.  In those words, God gives hope, encouragement, guidance and wisdom.  It is in those words that I look for the way God wants me to live my life.

In my last post I said that we started a new class.  This one is on evangelism.  We are starting the study by looking at and comparing the Great Commission as it is written in the four gospels and Acts.  At the end of the lesson we discussed how in Luke and John’s accounts the Lord commands us to receive the empowerment of the Holy Spirit.  We as humans do not have the power to complete the work God has for us to do, so He has sent a Helper to us.  We need to accept that Helper through the baptism of the Holy Spirit.

Near the end of our discussion, we became slightly sidetracked over a misunderstanding about the baptism in the Holy Spirit with the evidence of speaking in tongues.  This is mentioned several times in the Bible.  On the day of Pentecost as described in Acts 2:4, “All of them were filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak in other tongues as the Spirit enabled them.”  When Peter was at Cornelius’s house in Acts 10:23-46.  “While Peter was speaking these words, the Holy Spirit came on all who heard the message.  The circumcised believers who had come with Peter were astonished that the Holy Spirit had been poured out even on the Gentiles.  For they heard them speaking in tongues and praising God” (Acts 10:44-46).  

Peter also says in Acts 11:15-17, “As I began to speak, the Holy Spirit came on them as he had come on us at the beginning.  Then I remembered what the Lord had said: ‘John baptized with water, but you will be baptized with the Holy Spirit.’ So if God gave them the same gift as he gave us, who believe in the Lord Jesus Christ, who was I to think that I could oppose God?”  In this passage Peter was explaining his actions at Cornelius’s house.  And he stated that those there were baptized with the Holy Spirit just as the believers were in Acts 2:4.

If the inspired word of God (aka the Bible) gives us these examples of how the baptism of the Holy Spirit occurred in the early church, why would it be any different for us today?  Hebrews 13:8 says “Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever.”  If He does not change, why would He change the gift He gave during the gospel times to something else today?  Why would He not allow us the same experience?  And as with those on the day of Pentecost, why wouldn't God give me an outward sign or evidence that I too have received the baptism of the Holy Spirit?

Prepared?

Two weeks ago I got word that the textbooks for our new class were in and I could pick mine up at church the next morning.  I was so excited.  I had trouble sleeping that night because I could not wait to pick it up.  I was giddy with anticipation.  (You can stop laughing.  I am not that crazy or weird)  I love to learn!  Don't just say well you should since you are a teacher.  Because I know many teachers who feel they have their degree so their learning is over.  But that is so untrue.  We learn from everything and everyone around us.


So, I love to learn, and I love books.  They are like friends.  You read them and get to know them.  You can revisit them to review or learn something new.  My point is I am excited because I have a new book.


This new book will open up a new world and teach me new ideas.  It will help prepare me for things to come.  And most of all it will help me grow closer to God.


Part of growing closer to God means preparing for the work He had for you to do.  I do not know where God is leading me right now.  Maybe I will remain where I am and do what I am doing.  Either way I want to be prepared for where God leads me or for what questions I am asked.  I will still rely on the guidance of the Holy Spirit and whatever other help God sends my way.  But I want to have the relationship and arsenal God needs in me so I am prepared to follow.


Peter tells us "Therefore prepare your minds for action; be self-controlled; set your hope fully on the grace to be given you when Jesus Christ is revealed" (1 Peter 1:13).  And in 1 Peter 3:15, he says, " But in your hearts set apart Christ as Lord.  Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have..."  Both verses say to be prepared.  How can you do this without opening a book to study?


A year ago, I was studying for the final exam for my second class.  I had read the text and answered all the objectives and questions.  To help me prepare, I made flashcards to quiz myself over and over.  The day of the final, I was on a school bus returning from a field trip. To pass the time I was running through my flashcards again.  One of my colleagues saw what I was doing and asked about it.  I explained about the class and we talked for a little while about it.  She then said to me that she didn't have time for that besides she would rather go to church and have the preacher tell her what she needed to know.  I could not believe it.  How does she know they are teaching her the right thing?  How will she develop a relationship with God if she does not spend time?  How will she be prepared?

Let Your "Yes" Mean Yes...

When I was growing up we would try to get my mom to make promises. Not for anything important but for childish things like could we go somewhere, have a friend spend the night over the weekend, or would she do something for us.  But she would never make a promise because she said she would not want to break her word if something happened and she could not follow through on her promise.  She always said we would try or she would do her best to do something.  Her example helped to teach me the value of words and better yet the value of your word.


Jesus taught about making promises and vows in Matthew 5:33-37.

Again, you have heard that it was said to the people long ago, 'Do not break your oath, but fulfill to the Lord the vows you have made.'  But I tell you, do not swear an oath at all: either by heaven for it is God's throne; or by the earth, for it is his footstool; or by Jerusalem, for it is the city of the Great King.  And do not swear by your head, for you cannot make even one hair white or black.  All you need to say is simply 'Yes' or 'No,' anything beyond this comes from the evil one.

This topic is also mentioned in James 5:12.  "Above all, my brothers, do not swear - not by heaven or by earth or by anything else.  Let your "Yes" be yes, and your "No" be no, or you will be condemned."  Jesus and James are not saying that you should not make promises or vows, but that you should not make them lightly.  Sometimes in life we have to make promises - when we marry, for our job... We should give these matters a lot of prayer, thought and study before making that commitment.  We should not make promises we know we cannot or are not willing to keep.  


Keeping promises is important because it builds trust and relationships with those around us.  It makes it harder for others to believe us when we break promises and we do not keep our word.  According to the Life Application Bible (p2098) "By avoiding lies, half-truth, and omissions of the truth, you will become known as a trustworthy person."


So that leaves me with one last thought.  If you take on the role or title of a job when you do not fully believe in ALL that role or title include, are you keeping the promise you made?  Are you a trustworthy person?  Does your "Yes" mean yes and your "No," no?

I Hate It Here...

According to the Life Application Bible’s dictionary, hate means “dislike or detest; strong emotional aversion; detestable.”  That is how I feel about where I live.  I hate it here because it is cold, rainy (that is an understatement) and for much of the year it is either dark and/or gloomy (an average of 226 cloudy days per year).  When there has been five minutes of sun, people run outside or to the window just for the simple pleasure of feeling the sun on their face.  I was born and raised in sunnier states.  I never thought I would say it, but there are times I even miss living in southern Florida. 

I have learned though, through the twenty-one years that I have lived here to look for way to be content and at times happy.  Philippians 4:13 had become one of my favorite Bible verses but I believe you need to back it up a little and include Philippians 4:11-13.  Paul said in these verses

I am not saying this because I am in need, for I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances.  I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty.  I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want.  I can do everything through him who gives me strength.

I have found contentment in where God has placed me.  I have found that through Christ I have the strength to get out of bed.  I have the strength to make it through the day when I go to work and come home from work in the dark.  I have the strength to make it through over 100 days of rain.  I have also learned that when I feel that strength dwindling God will send someone or something along to encourage me and to renew my strength.  Psalm 40:31 says

but those who hope in the Lord
will renew their strength.
They will soar on wings like eagles;
They will run and not grow weary,
They will walk and not be faint.

Today was one of those days.  God gave us a day of sun, beautiful fluffy white clouds, and beautiful clear blue sky.  It was a day that I truly appreciated because of those days of rain.  I try to take advantage of those days; to be refreshed and renewed.  To take the time to observe God’s wonderful creation and to spend time just thanking Him for all He gives and all He does for me.  For giving me strength to make it through the rain and the renewal of that strength through the sun and better yet through His Son. 

And this allows me to say as David did in Psalm 9:1

I will praise you, O Lord, with all my heart;
I will tell of all your wonders;
I will be glad and rejoice in you,
I will sing praises to your name, O Most High.

So if you are in a situation you dislike, detest or simply just hate, you need to look for ways to find happiness, joy or at the very least contentment.  Also remember that Ecclesiastes 3:1 says “There is a time for everything and a season for every activity under heaven…”  Therefore the situation you find yourself in will only last for a period or God will change your outlook toward that situation.

Don't Judge Me...

“Don’t judge me” are words that I hear from one of my students almost daily.  I usually hear them right before she tells me the latest situation that she has gotten into.  I admire this student because she is many things that I am not.  She is outgoing, upbeat, loud, friendly and extroverted.  She can easily laugh at herself and the crazy things she does.  She is open, granted sometimes a little too open, but that is who she is.  Because of these characteristics (and because she wants to hear it), she is one of my favorite students and one I will remember for years to come.

But back to her words – don’t judge me.  Those are words that I often want to barrow.  I have many people who judge me but because I am not like my student they do not know me so they judge me on only what they see.  Or better yet, on what they think they see.

One of the areas that I am judged on the most is my occupation.  And unfortunately that judgment mostly comes from other Christians.  For example, the typical conversation when I meet someone at church is for them to ask me what I do and my reply is that I am a teacher.  Their response is a big smile and the next question is always what Christian school do you teach in?  Unfortunately the conversation does not last much longer because my answer is I teach in a public high school.  There it is, my secret is out.  I am a public high school teacher.  Remember – don’t judge me.

I am just as shocked as they are.  This is not where I was supposed to be.  I was supposed to be a veterinarian and running my own clinic by now.  But God had other plans.  He says in Jeremiah 29:11, “For I know the plans I have for you…”  Well, His plans were not my plans and His plans were not those of other Christians I meet.

So do not judge me because I followed where God lead.  Do not judge me because He had called me to be there to pray, to model the fruits of the Spirit, to help and to show “brotherly” love to those who happen to go to public school.  Jesus did not spend His time on earth only with those who were blameless.  Jesus spent time with sinners.  “While Jesus was having dinner at Matthew’s house, many tax collectors and “sinners” came and ate with him and his disciples” (Matthew 9:10).  In Luke 19:7, “All the people saw this and began to mutter, “He has gone to be the guest of a ‘sinner’.”  And in Luke 15:1-2, “Now the tax collectors and ‘sinners’ were all gathering to hear him.  But the Pharisees and the teachers of the law muttered, “This man welcomes sinners and eats with them.”  I am no better than my Lord and Savior so how can I separate myself from the world he placed himself in the middle of?

This is the mission field God has called me to so don’t judge me.  And the next time you meet a school teacher do not assume that you know who they are.  Most of all don’t judge them because they too may have answered God’s call and work in a public school.  Instead of judging us maybe you should ask yourself if you are following where God has called you.  And maybe you should take the time to pray for us because we are not alone here and we need God’s help working in this mission field.

Not Just Individuals...

My grandmother always said that if I am suffering then I must be doing something right but if I am not then the devil is leaving me alone because he has already gotten me.  Do you rejoice at suffering?  Do you see it as a result of God's work?  First Peter 4: 12-13 explores this idea further.  Peter said 

Dear friends, do not be surprised at the painful trial you are suffering, as though something strange were happening to you.  But rejoice that you participate in the sufferings of Christ, so that you may be overjoyed when his glory is revealed.

Peter is telling us to expect and rejoice in suffering.  But he is clear that we should rejoice if the suffering is for Jesus.  Unfortunately, suffering for Jesus is not the only reason for suffering.  Are we suffering for the right reasons?  We need to look at ourselves and our actions to make sure we are not bringing the suffering on ourselves.  

If you suffer, it should not be as a murderer or a thief or any other kind of criminal, or even as a meddler. (I Peter 4:15)

We are called to distinguish between suffering for being a believer and suffering because of our actions.  We should seek counsel and pray to determine the cause of our suffering.  We need to seek to find if we are causing our suffering so we can correct our wrongs and continue with the work God has for us.

But this is not just about us as individuals.  This is also true with the church.  Almost weekly our pastor gets up and talks about how we are suffering, we are having trouble paying our bills and meeting our needs.  He also mentions how we are not the only ones, that he had pastor friends whose churches are the same.  But does that make it alright?  We need to know why.  Are we suffering for Christ?  We need to search ourselves as a church body to find out why we are suffering.  Peter also says 

For it is time for judgment to begin with the family of God; and if it begins with us, what will the outcome for those who do not obey the gospel of God? (1 Peter 4:17) 

If God is going to begin with the church, are the hard times we are going through a result of His judgment for our sins?  Is it a wake-up call to us to repent as He called the churches in Revelation to repent.  Do we compare to Pergamum where we tolerate compromise (Revelation 2:12-17)?  Or Laodicea where we are only lukewarm (Revelation 3:14-22)?  Or are we going through hard times like Smyrna and we just need to hold on (Revelation 2:8-11)?  Or like faithful Philadelphia (Revelation 3:7-13)?


The only way to know the truth as an individual or as a church is to get on our knees and seek God's guidance.  We must open our hearts and minds to what God has for us and be prepared to accept what He tells us.

So then those who suffer according to God's will should commit themselves to their faithful Creator and continue to do good.  (I Peter 4:19)

Emergency Preparedness (Part 2)

So what do we do while we wait?  Along with the signs of the end times in Matthew 24, Christ gives us instructions on how to live.  Nine of those instructions are (as listed in Introduction to Pentecostal Doctrine)

1.  Watch out that no one deceives you (v. 4).  The only sure way to keep from being deceived is to focus on Christ and His words.

2. Do not be alarmed at the signs; they must happen (v. 6)

3.  Stand firm to the end (v. 13).  "All men will hate you because of me, but he who stands firm to the end will be saved" (Matthew 10:22).  We will not be saved by standing firm, but our persistence to stand firm will show our commitment to Jesus. We may not be suffering for our beliefs but there are people in the world who are.  Christ says that we are one body so if one Christian suffers then we all suffer.  First Corinthians 12:26 says "If one part suffers, every part suffers with it, if one part is honored, every part rejoices wit it."  So do we pray for those who are suffering?  Do we try to help lighten their load?  Some day that could be you or I.

4.  Continue preaching the gospel throughout the world (v. 14).  Christ says that the gospel will be preached in the whole world before His return.  His last command before leaving this earth was the Great Commission.

5.  Be ready to flee from evil and persecution (vv. 16-19).  "Blessed are you when people insult you, persecute you and falsely say all kinds of evil against you because of me" (Matthew 5:11).

6.  Know from the signs that Christ's coming and the end are very near (v. 33)

7.  Watch continually for Christ's coming (v. 42).  Christ second coming will be swift and sudden.  There will be no opportunity for last-minute repentance or bargaining.  The choice we have already made will determine our eternal destiny (Life Application Bible p1586).

8.  Be ready spiritually for Christ's return (v. 44).  Christ does not give us these signs to predict His second coming, but He gave them as a warning to be prepared.

9.  Be a faithful and wise servant as you await Christ's coming (vv. 45-46).  Jesus calls us continue His work taking care of those in need.  Showing them who Jesus is by meeting their mental, physical and spiritual needs.  Leading them to Christ so they to may see eternity with Jesus Christ.


So while you watch for the signs of the end times make sure your focus is on following Christ's instruction.  Focusing on these will help you focus on Christ and focusing on Christ will help you prepare for his second coming.

Emergency Preparedness (Part 1)

Since the earthquake in Japan we have been bombarded with information about natural disasters and emergency preparedness every time we turn on the television.  Last week on one of the late night news shows there was a segment about a man living in a city who even had goats and chickens for milk, eggs, babies, and if necessary meat.  Have we gone too far?  Are we truly preparing for what is really important?  Are we too busy living for the future and not preparing for eternity?

We are living in a time that we need to be prepared.  We need to be prepared by recognizing the signs and watching for Jesus' return.  We need to be prepared for where we will spend eternity.  So what are the signs we are to watch for?  According to Introduction to Pentecostal Doctrine, Matthew 24:4-38 reveals between 25 and 30 signs of the end times (p149).  It lists the 12 most prominent ones as

the appearance of deceivers (v. 5), wars and rumors of wars (v. 6), famine (v. 7), earthquakes (v. 7), persecution and martyrdom (v. 9), believers being hated around the world (v. 10), apostasy (v. 10) false prophets (v. 11), wickedness and evil overcoming love (v. 12), signs and miracles by false prophets (v. 24), sun and moon darkened (v. 29), and people living carelessly as in the days of Noah (v. 38).

  These are only signs of the end times.  We do not know the time or date when Christ will return because 1 Thessalonians 5:2 tells us "for you know very well that the day of the Lord will come like a thief in the night."  

So are you watching for the signs?  Are you excited about what is happening in the world around us?  Are you concerned about what is to come?  Are you worried about being physically and financially prepared?  Do you want to look at these events with awe and excitement?  Well, what you need is Jesus Christ.  You need to know and acknowledge what He did for each and every one of us when He became our Savior.  We have that excitement that these signs will lead us to another life, another world.  One where we can live for eternity with our Lord and Savior.  We do not have to do anything except accept Him.  So, is your emergency preparedness kit ready?  Have you said yes to the only one who can see you through every thing?  Do not be left behind because you decided to make the choice too late.

How many ribs?

I am not a typical high school teacher.  My classroom has posters all over the walls and cabinet doors, things hanging from the ceiling, collections of Mr. Potato Heads, etc. It is a busy place but all of it is to help my students learn.

I was teaching Anatomy last year, so I had life size posters on the walls that showed the skeletal, muscular and nervous systems.  During math one day, one of my students blurted out the question, "How many ribs do males and females have?"  I had a suspicion about what and why he was asking but I inquired what he meant.  He said "Well, you know that whole story about the man and woman, you know, from the Bible."  I knew alright.  I knew he was talking about Genesis 2:21-22.

So the Lord God caused the man to fall into a deep sleep; and while he was sleeping, he took one of the man's ribs and closed up the place with flesh.  The the Lord God made a woman from the rib he had taken out of the man, and he brought her to the man.

I knew where he was headed.  I had taught Anatomy several times and I had prayed numerous times that this question would not come up.  I knew what the Bible said about the creation of man and woman, and I knew the scientific answer.  I had never taken the time to prepare an answer. I knew if I said they each have 24 ribs that it would lead to questions about why shouldn't they have a different number of ribs if God took one rib.  

So what was I to do.  I took a deep breath and said a quick prayer that God would give the words that were needed.  I opened my mouth and what came out was a shock to me.  My answer was they both have 24 ribs.  I know the Bible says that a rib was taken from Adam to create Eve, but God had already created the genetic code (DNA) for the human body.  You learned about how DNA works in biology class.  God taking the rib from Adam did not change his DNA any more than your father loosing a leg before you were born would change his.  You would still be born with two legs.  

The student's response was ok and he went back to work.  My response was "Wow. Where did that come from?"  Then I realized God had answered my prayer.  He gave me the answer I needed in a way to help this student understand.  I felt in this instance the Holy Spirit gave me the gift of wisdom.

Now to each one the manifestation of the Spirit is given for the common good.  To one there is given through the Spirit the message of wisdom, to another the message of knowledge by means of the same Spirit... (1 Corinthians 12:7-8)

According to Introduction to Pentecostal Doctrine, the Word of Wisdom is "the supernatural inspiration for speaking the right word at the right time" (p97).  I asked and God gave me the right words to speak at the right time.  All I had to do was ask.

If any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to him. (James 1:5)

Fruit of the Spirit

I mentioned in earlier posts that I am a teacher.  Typically I teach high school math and science (stop cringing, I enjoy it). As a teacher I depend of the Holy Spirit being part of my life.  I would not be successful or effective without Him.  I need the fruits of the Spirit - love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control (Galatians 5:22) - in working with my students.  Here are three example of the fruits I have experienced through teaching.

My first example is patience.  I am not a patient person but during the last few years I have had several people mention that they cannot believe how patient I am with students.  What they see is not me but the Holy Spirit.  I do not have the patience to sit with a student for hours after school tutoring them in three, four, and five classes so they can pass for the semester.  I do not have the patience to continually redirect students to do the task at hand.  I do not have the patience to explain over and over in different ways the same concept because a student has trouble grasping or retaining the idea.  But the Holy Spirit gives me the patience to do these things. 

My second example is kindness.  According to Introduction to Pentecostal Doctrine, kindness "is related to mercy and grace - unmerited or undeserved kindness" (p92).  This is not an easy fruit to display at times because it causes more work for me.  I see kindness in my class as a fruit of second chances.  Students are not perfect.  They have bad days, bad home lives, they leave things at home, and they forget.  So showing kindness is giving them the chance to redo a test or assignment, turn in a late paper, giving an extension on a deadline, etc.  They do not deserve the kindness, but then we do not deserve it when God forgives our sins or when Jesus was willing to suffer and die for us.

My third example is meekness.  Meekness is "inner strength in the face of difficult or undesirable circumstances beyond the control of the Spirit-filled believer (p92).  Meekness is a hard one because I always want to fall back on childish tendencies when I do not get my way.  One of the difficulties of being a teacher is that your job assignment (classes you teach) can change yearly.  Last year, I was called to the principal's office so he could tell me I would be teaching social studies this year.  I could have screamed, hollered, pitched a fit but what would I have accomplished.  Instead it was meekness that came through.  The Holy Spirit gave me the inner strength to calmly say "OK, thank you for letting me know so I can prepare."  The last thing I wanted was to learn three new curriculum and to spend time over the summer preparing for subjects I had never taught, but the Holy Spirit gave me the strength to cope and move on.

Life is not easy but it is easier when you are not traveling alone.  The Holy Spirit gives you what you need when you need it if you depend on Him and allow it.

It is good to tarry...

Do we live in such a fast food, microwave society that we do not know how to tarry at the cross?  According to Merriam-Webster Dictionary, tarry means

1a: to delay or to tardy in acting or doing

b:  to linger in expectation: wait

2: to abide or stay in or at a place

I grew up watching the saints of the church tarry at the cross.  They took their concerns to God in prayer and they waited there on their knees until He answered.  It seems that now we are too busy pushing through our agenda to tarry on the Lord.  I may not have received my baptism in the Holy Spirit nine years ago if I had not tarried.

I wanted to be baptized. I researched, I read my Bible, I talked to my pastor and elders, and I prayed.  But it did not happen.  Then I went to a women's conference, and I just knew it would happen there.  But it did not.  I came home upset, angry and disappointed because I felt let down by the ladies I went with and by God.  I went to church that Sunday night and when the service ended I went to the altar. 

I was there for what seemed like an eternity.  I prayed.  I cried.  But I did not want to leave until I met God at that altar.  Everyone else had left except five others who stayed to pray through with me.  The others had gone on to a sundae social.  But I stayed on my knees.  One of the ladies finally knelt next to me and shared a vision she had with me.  Her vision was a child lost, looking everywhere for her father - going to and from, left and right.  And the Father said "I am right in front of you.  Run into my arms.  I have never left; I am always here."  The Lord wants you to crawl in His lap and fill you with His love - surround you.  Come freely into His arms.

After she walked away, there was a peace that came over me.  I received the baptism with evidence in speaking in tongues that night.  And I learned that I did not have to do or go anywhere special to meet with Jesus.  All I had to do was tarry.  All I had to do was wait and be patient.  God handled the rest.

I waited patiently for the Lord; 

he turned to me and heard my cry.

"He lifted me out of the slimy pit,

out of the mud and mire; 

he set my feet on a rock

and gave me a firm place to stand. 

He put a new song in my mouth,

a hymn of praise to our God.

Many will see and fear

and put their trust in the Lord."

(Psalm 40:1-3)

It is hard to express how thankful I am to God for this gift or to those who were willing to tarry with me. Last night I read a footnote from my Life Application Bible for Acts 1:15-26.  During these verses the apostles were waiting for God's response to who should replace Judas.  The footnote says,

While the apostles waited, they were doing what they could - praying, seeking God's guidance and getting organized.  Waiting for God to work does not mean sitting around doing nothing.  We must do what we can, as long as we don't run ahead of God.

Sometimes it is good to tarry.

My do it myself...

My do it myself - those were words that I used as a child.  I was independent even then.  I was not one to ask for help or to easily accept it.  I am still that way today.  Knowing that has led me to the lessons I learned in the last two weeks.

Two weeks ago, I injured my back, of all things, picking up a half full water bottle.  These weeks have been a lesson in patience.  Patience with myself and patience with others.  I have had to have patience with myself as my life has had to slow down.  You would not know it by looking at me but I am a very active person.  During this time I have had to take time off from work, my treadmill thinks I have forgotten about it, and things have gotten a little messy.  But I have had to learn to say "Oh well."  I need to recover, not do more damage.  I need to be patient so my recovery is weeks not months.  I have to have patience with myself knowing and doing what I need t do to recover.  I have to take the time to vary my activity, remember to take Aleve, use the icepack several times a day and ride the twenty minutes, one-way, to my chiropractor.

That last one leads me to my other lesson - patience with others.  It is easier for me to ask for help from God than it is for me to ask for help from others.  In Matthew 7:7-8 Jesus says

Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; know and the door will be opened to you.  For everyone who asks receives; he who seeks finds; and to him who knocks, the door will be opened.

I know that this is true.  I know my Father wants to give me what I need and many times what I want, but I have to have the faith to ask, seek and knock.  I have learned that I have to do that with my earthly father, mother and all those who surround me.  I need to know my limits, I need to share my limits, and I need to ask and seek help to compensate for those limits.  

My students asked me why I was gone and as a private person I did not want to share, but I try to always be honest with them.  So I told them what I had done and what I was going through.  The next thing I knew, three students walked through my classroom door, laid hands on me and prayed.  How humbling and how awesome that my students cared enough to take their time to find me and pray for me.  Without being patient to take the time to share with them when they stopped me to inquire, I would not have had that encouraging, joyful experience.  God had not healed me physically through that prayer (even though I know He could) but I believe God had His reasons.

I have also had to have patience as I have had to ask and seek help.  I have not driven (except two short times) since this happened.  That means I am dependent on someone to take me to work, the doctor, the store, etc.  I have to ask someone to pick things up that are too low or too heavy.  It is humbling to have a student chew you out because you bent down to pick up a single piece of paper from a bottom drawer.  She ended by saying, Ms D all you had to do was ask.  That's all I have to do.  All I have to do is ask - ask my heavenly Father and ask my earthly family and friends.

I need to remember Paul's outlook on his weakness because the same is true for me.

But he said to me, "My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness." Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ's power may rest on me." (2 Corinthians 12:9)

I know that my injury is nothing compared to what others go through daily.  But I also know that God can teach me even through this minor speed bump. I am grateful and humbled by the love, caring and help I have received.  I have learned that "my do it myself" is not a good philosophy to have or use. I guess my philosophy should be "my do it with help."