No Gender Restrictions

They agreed they were in this for good, completely together in prayer, the women included. Also, Jesus’ mother, Mary, and his brothers. Acts 1:14

Luke doesn’t miss a beat in his detailed account of Jesus’ life to Theophilus. He is trying to convince him that Jesus was not only the Son of God, but that He continues to be active in the lives of His disciples, including the women. When they said they were in it for good, they meant as participants, not spectators!

We are reminded once again that women were important and were disciples also! I wonder how many of the 120 in the upper room were women. Man or woman, all were to pray and wait for the Holy Spirit. He would come upon them all, not just the 12. Here we also have it confirmed that Jesus’ brothers became followers.   I wonder about His sisters. Hum….  Jesus showed that God was not a respecter of gender. I love it. From the very beginning of His ministry women were given the same spiritual power and expectations to witness as men. They (we) are all responsible to share our salvation story and God’s work in our lives with those around us who need to know Him and not just know about Him.

Dear Jesus, this should be a message well-received by women of today. We are not second- class citizens in God’s kingdom, nor are we any better or less than men. God doesn’t see gender; He sees willing and obedient hearts. He sees’ spirits that are surrendered and available to Him. Help us not to define our spiritual possibilities or use in the kingdom by gender or anything, but obedience to Jesus. May that be our focus as His disciples! May we remember if we want to be defined as a disciple, we must accept the responsibility of a disciple – one who shares Christ with others.

No Hidden Agendas

…..we and the Message are free of error, mixed motives, or hidden agendas. We never used words to butter you up. No one knows that better than you. And God knows we never used words as a smoke screen to take advantage of you.     I Thessalonians 2:5     The Message

Apparently Paul took heed to Jesus words in Matthew 12:36-37 (NIV)

6 But I tell you that everyone will have to give account on the day of judgment for every empty word they have spoken. 37 For by your words you will be acquitted, and by your words you will be condemned.”

Paul is emphasizing here that the words they spoke to correct and encourage the Thessalonians were not for man’s approval but for God’s. They did not use their words to take advantage or butter people up. They knew the truth of what they were preaching and stood firm on that truth. And there is every indication that they were kind – like a father- as they spoke to these converts.

How often have I used words that I thought would influence others, even if they weren’t exactly accurate? How often have we as Christians used scripture to prove what we want it to say? How often have we taken words out of context to prove our point

Using slanted words, half-truths, misrepresentations is so common today that we no longer trust what anyone says, even preachers. Words carry weight, have an unbelievable influence for good or bad. Words hide the truth, or offer truth, hope, direction and encouragement. The truth, not always pleasant to our ears, is necessary to help us grow and fulfill God’s plan for His Kingdom purposes. Jesus says we will be judged by our words. We should always check our words and the words of others but God’s Word of truth.

Father, You know how powerful words are and how much I love to use them to my advantage. Oh, Jesus, check me when my words are not pleasing to You and when I am not telling YOUR truth. Holy Spirit, speak through me and help me stand firm on Your Word when I would rather play it safe and please or appease. When my words come from You, and a heart of love I can be assured whether in praise or loving rebuke, You will use them for Your glory. I am so in need of Your mighty power and grace in this area! Remind me to ask myself, “What would Jesus say in this situation?”

Our God Solves Mysteries

When Daniel finished, King Nebuchadnezzar fell on his face in awe before Daniel. He ordered the offering of sacrifices and burning of incense in Daniel’s honor. He said to Daniel, “Your God is beyond question the God of all gods, the Master of all kings. And he solves all mysteries, I know, because you’ve solved this mystery.” Daniel2:46-47

Daniel explained the king’s dream in detail and was accurate in all he said. The king was so amazed, he fell on his face in awe and honored Daniel in the only way he knew.  Nebuchadnezzar was convinced Daniel’s God was “the GOD above all gods”.  What an awesome declaration by the most powerful king of that time! 

I am enjoying Daniel this time around for its simplicity! The statue with the symbolism of the kingdoms and prophecies is interesting, but I am just amazed by God’s awesome power and purpose in a life devoted to Him. To have someone look at you because of the way you live, and the way God uses His power in you and declare God is real gives me chills! I want to be that kind of believer!

God, You are so awesome and powerful and offer the same power to us today that You gave Daniel. He paid the price with his commitment, discipline and sacrifice and You changed a kingdom because of it. I don’t pretend to have reached that level of belief, but I want to keep listening, obeying, and allowing You to work through me in any way You choose, to help others believe and experience Your unconditional love and solve the mysteries in their lives. You have all the answers before we even ask the questions.  You have never lost control and never will. What we are facing today is not surprising or confusing to You. We don’t have to be afraid because You will still be in control after the election, and anything else this world throws at us! We WIN!!!  Thank You, Jesus!!!!

You Are the Message

The news of your faith in God is out. We don’t even have to say anything anymore—you’re the message! 1 Thessalonians 1:7

Paul was bragging about the Thessalonians converts who had accepted the Word and stood firm in their faith. The world around them could see the change and news spread of their radiant faith.

Those words, “You’re the message,” caught my attention this morning. Their lives were so full of Christ that they became the gospel to their world. They were following the example that Paul, Timothy and Silas had taught them. These were Paul’s children (disciples) in Christ; therefore they exhibited that same joy that Paul had. They accepted the truth from his lips and his example. This is my desire for my life and my church, that others see Christ through us and will join with us in following Christ. As Blackaby expressed so well this morning, we are not perfect or flawless, but like Peter, we are continually running toward Christ. Wherever we see Him at work, we want to run to be there with Him.

Jesus, help me to be a world changer. Help our church to be full of world changers. Oh, Father, we can’t change even one person – ourselves- but you can change us and use us to be an example that others want to follow as we follow YOU! It’s a bit scary to think of others following my imperfect example, but I know it’s not about me but what you are doing in me that attracts others to You!  I yield this day to You for Your purposes and Your glory. Work in my mind today and give me clear thinking. Thank You for loving and transforming me to reflect Your glory!

Uncontaminated Love

The whole point of what we’re urging is simply love—love uncontaminated by self-interest and counterfeit faith, a life open to God. 1 Timothy 1:5

Paul continues to urge his followers to follow Jesus with uncontaminated love. Paul, who was so full of hatred before he met Jesus, is now stuck on the theme of love. Love that is pure, selfless, and genuine. Knowing Paul’s past as an adamant, rule-keeping, judgmental follower of the law, it is sometime difficult to believe the 180 degrees turn in his life. I’m sure love didn’t come naturally after he met Jesus. Maybe that is why it took 14 years before he was confirmed by the apostles to preach the gospel. He had to have time to grow in love and let go of his past. Whatever the process, I know that growing in love is a lifetime process for me. Love that is completely free of self-interest continues to be my goal. I have experienced so much growth in the last few years, but I still have “miles to go before I sleep.”

Jesus, Jesus, help me to love like You love – a love that sees every individual as a child of God needing love, and every situation as redeemable. You made me with drive, enthusiasm, and a desire to see things accomplished. But without an outpouring of Your love over those character traits, they produce impatience, anxiety, and fear. I ask that You purify those traits to accomplish Your will and encourage others in love! Thank You, Father, for Your faithfulness “even to my old age and gray hair!!!! (Isa. 46-4)

Commitment-Contentment-Courage

Deuteronomy 6:6 -And you must commit yourselves wholeheartedly to these commands that I am giving you today. (NLT)

Philippians 4:11 – for I have learned how to be content with whatever I have.

(NIV)Joshua 1:9 -This is my command—be strong and courageous! Do not be afraid or discouraged. For the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.” (NLT)

At the beginning of each year, I ask the Lord for a scripture to focus on and guide me through the new year. This year I do not have one word, but the letter, -“C” – Commit, be Content and take Courage. It will be easy to remember these as my email has 3Cs in it. I am also to forget the past, the good, bad and ugly, and look forward to the awesome things He is going to do in my future. As I enter the unknown of 2025, I can be assured that if I commit to obeying God’s will and am content with His answers and plans, He will give me the courage to face the year with hope and anticipation of what He will do in this world, our country, my community, my church, my family, and my life.

Father, may Your will be done on earth in 2025 as it has been ordained in heaven. May I not focus on what I see, but what You have promised. This world is not my home, I am a citizen of Your kingdom and a daughter of the King. My hope is in You, my help comes from You and my inheritance is in heaven.

Do Not Be Intimidated

Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous! Do not be terrified or dismayed (intimidated), for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.” Joshua 1:9

This theme runs throughout the book of Joshua and these verses are some of the most encouraging in scripture. obey Me and be strong. I will never abandon you! Do not be terrified or intimidated! I am with you wherever you go!

When scripture says, “do not be,” it is very likely you will be in a situation where you WILL be tempted to dismay, fear, intimidation or whatever weakness your situation resurrects in you. These are powerful verses for battle against the enemy of our soul. But promises are always based on commands. If you-you will, or if you-I will. In the previous verses, we are to obey the Word and meditate on it day and night and God promises victory to overcome. Sometimes the greatest victories are over the little things, while other victories come in overwhelming situations. Both take the power and promises of God to overcome and be victorious in Him. Whether the battle is small or great we are told to fear not, not to be afraid or be intimidated as our God is always with us. As we begin 2025- let us march forward in hope and expectation remembering God is ALWAYS with us!

Father, thank You for these scriptures and for Your continued reminder that You will never leave or forsake us and to not allow fear, intimidation or the size of the enemy to steal our victory. The enemy is still the enemy whether great or small, but we have the power of the Creator, Redeemer, all Powerful God, promised to us. The victory has already been won! As we begin 2025, let us march forward in faith and expectation, remembering God IS AWALYS WITH US!

Forget and Anticipate

“Forget the former things; do not dwell on the past See, I am doing a new thing!…
Isa 43:18

Thank You for this passage, Lord. Oh, how I want to forget all the things that have affected me negatively in my past. All those things that have created insecurity, unfounded fears, poor self-image, distrust and unworthiness. I am so glad those are all under the blood and I don’t have to accept those lies of the enemy as your child.  BUT WAIT!

          “But forget all that—it is nothing compared to what I am going to do.  Isa 43:18. (NLT)

Go ahead, read it for yourself in Isaiah 43:1-17. God recounts all the wonderful things He has done in the past for His children. Then He tells them to forget all those things. What? That doesn’t make sense…. until you read the last part of the verse. It’s like He is saying, “You ain’t seen nothing’ yet!” Wait until you see what I am going to do tomorrow, next year, next century, next millennium! You have no idea how much I love You and what I will do to redeem you.

How about You? Are you still trying to forget the negative things in your past or holding on to all the good things God has already done for you?  Maybe it’s time to look for the good things Jesus is doing today and anticipating miracles for tomorrow. Could it be that we are missing out on present blessings because our minds are focused on a repeat of the past, putting God in the box of our memories. we are so excited about what He has done that we forget who He is and what He can do. Remember He is Creator God, King of Kings, Almighty God, Wonderful Counselor, Prince of Peace and so much more!

As we enter 2025, let’s not live in the past, but anticipate His work in our present and future. Although we may not see what we are looking for we can trust He is completing His Will on earth as it is in heaven for each of us and His kingdom.

Merry Thanksmas

Don’t worry about anything; instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need and thank him for all he has done. Philippians 4:6

Today is a day of rejoicing and thanksgiving. Today as we take down the tree and put away the Christmas ornaments and nativities, I will be shedding tears of joy, not only for the beauty of Christ’s birth, but for family and friends. I rejoice in traveling mercies as we drove over a thousand miles to be with children, grandchildren and best friends (not an easy feat for us mature-over 70 folks)! Lots of stops and prayers, but God answered our prayers. We watched all three grandkids participate in worship and heard a wonderful word from God delivered by my son-in-law, and witnessed my daughter ministering to the children We rejoiced in Jesus’ birth, opened gifts, laughed, and gave and received lots of hugs. We ate too much, exercised too little and drank in the warmth of family and friends.

A lot of prayer went into this trip, for safety, encouraging words, understanding hearts, and leaving behind the fragrance of the Christ of Christmas. We prayed for everything and now it is time to rejoice and thank Him for all He has done! Time to reflect on His sovereignty, His humility and desire to bless us and answer our prayers. He truly gave us “our daily bread,” and I pray we hallowed His name.

Father God, thank You for Advent, for leaving your throne in heaven to become like one of us. Thank You for loving us so much to offer redemption and the awesome opportunity to leave this earth and join You in heaven. You came to us so we could come to You. Such love is beyond our comprehension, but not beyond our experience. May our lives reflect that love as we in turn have been called to love others as You love us. Love us, forgive us and glorify Your Name through us, we pray!

Baptism of the Spirit

16-17 The moment Jesus came up out of the baptismal waters, the skies opened up and he saw God’s Spirit—it looked like a dove—descending and landing on him. And along with the Spirit, a voice: “This is my Son, chosen and marked by my love, delight of my life.” Matthew 3:17-18

Jesus needed John to baptize Him to complete the work of God’s prophecy concerning the Messiah.

NOTE: The following thoughts have not been researched but came to me this morning as I read this passage more closely. I asked myself why Jesus, the Son of God needed to be baptized. I realized that Jesus did not do any miracles but lived as a normal man until after He was baptized in the Spirit (Holy Spirit). Jesus did not begin His public ministry until after He was baptized. For 30 years at home, Jesus did nothing to distinguish Himself as unique with the exception of being a very bright scholar at the age of 12. Now when Jesus asks John to baptize Him and John refuses, we hear this reply:

15 But Jesus said, “It should be done, for we must carry out all that God requires.[f]” So John agreed to baptize him. Matt. 3:15

I hear Jesus saying that He truly showed us the path to salvation and completing His work in this world. We must be baptized (filled) with the Holy Spirit to do the works that He did and that he has called us to do. There’s so much implied here that I cannot even comprehend, but I know the Holy Spirit is the key to doing the work of Jesus here on earth. Even the new believers in Samaria who accepted Jesus had to be baptized into the Holy Spirit.

15 When they arrived, they prayed for the new believers there that they might receive the Holy Spirit, 16 because the Holy Spirit had not yet come on any of them; they had simply been baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus. 17 Then Peter and John placed their hands on them, and they received the Holy Spirit. Acts 8:15-16

Father, I realize You revealed Your plan down to the last and most important detail, the Spirit–filled life. I honestly don’t want to be baptized by Your Spirit to have power to work miracles, but to hear Your voice clearly and to know You more fully. May Your Spirit fill my life today and may I walk in complete obedience one day at a time. Pour out Your Spirit O God upon my life, I pray.