Don’t let Pride Lead to Your fall.

Posted in Bible Study by

Therefore let anyone who thinks that he stands take heed lest he fall.

1 Corinthians‬ ‭10:12‬ ‭ESV‬‬
Photo by Tara Winstead on Pexels.com

In the previous verses of chapter 10, Paul is reminding the Corinthians of the sins of the Isralites in the wilderness and how those sins led to their destruction. In verse 11 he notes that these things were recorded in the Word for our instruction. 

When I read verse 12 I see it as a warning against pride. This is probably because of my own history. I became a Christian as a teenager during the Jesus movement of the 70’s. I was convinced that I would never abandon my faith, but that is exactly what I did once I got out on my own. 

I spent the next twenty years on a spiritual roller coaster … never feeling I could measure up to God’s standards, which is true. None of us can, which is why He sent Jesus to take on the punishment of our sins. I would give in to temptation and instead of running to God for forgiveness, I would run away in shame. God spent years tolerating my prodigal lifestyle, but He never stopped pursuing me. 

At some point, I finally got it. I let go of my pride and acknowledged, God, I cannot do this on my own. I determined that moving forward, WHEN (not if) I sinned, I would humbly run to God, repent and ask for His forgiveness, instead of using my failures as a excuse to give up. 

You may ask, what does that have to do with pride. I was trying to serve God in my own strength. When I failed, I let condemnation and shame drive me to just give up. Trust me, I have blown it many times since I made the commitment to fight for my faith. I have allowed God to teach me through the consequences of my actions and my faith is now deeper than it’s ever been. 

My relationship with God isn’t based on my performance. It’s based on my love for God and dependance on Him. 

I KNOW there is a constant war between my flesh and my spirit, and like Paul, I realize I cannot win this war through willpower. 

For I do not understand my own actions. For I do not do what I want, but I do the very thing I hate. Now if I do what I do not want, I agree with the law, that it is good. So now it is no longer I who do it, but sin that dwells within me. For I know that nothing good dwells in me, that is, in my flesh. For I have the desire to do what is right, but not the ability to carry it out. For I do not do the good I want, but the evil I do not want is what I keep on doing.

(Romans 7:15-19 ESV)

Even Paul, a pillar of the faith, acknowledged his sin struggle. These verses reflect a humble spirit. He doesn’t excuse his sin, but realizes he cannot win this spiritual war on his own. God will always make a way of escape when we are tempted, the problem is we often choose to ignore it. 

Prayer: Lord, I am so thankful that You never give up on me. I am so thankful that You love me in spite of my sinful nature. Thank You for your unfailing mercy. Lord, keep me humble. When I am weak, You are strong. 

I long for the day when my spirit will be set free from this fleshly body which continually wars against my spirit. Thank You Father for clothing me in the righteousness of Christ, and helping me to see that in the flesh, my righteousness is like filthy rags. (Isaiah 64:6) My reliance is on You Jesus, and the blood of the cross. I am more than a conqueror IN CHRIST. 

Remain Steadfast

Posted in Bible Study by

Blessed is the man who remains steadfast under trial, for when he has stood the test he will receive the crown of life, which God has promised to those who love him.

‭‭James‬ ‭1:12‬ ‭ESV‬‬

In this section of James 1, James is talking about the testing of our faith. He goes on in verse 13 to remind us that God does not tempt us with evil. When we are tempted to sin it’s generally because of our fleshly desires. When we are able to overcome temptation we develop spiritual maturity, not through willpower, but through dependence on God.

While this verse is addressing the reward of being steadfast in temptation, I think it’s equally applicable to remaining steadfast in the storms of life. The enemy comes to kill, steal, and destroy. (John 10:10) Then, he tries to twist the narrative and blame God for his destruction.

God loves His children. He isn’t up in Heaven thinking of ways to make our lives miserable, to see if we will remain faithful. Life’s miseries are the result of living in a fallen world. God will test our obedience, but He will never tempt us to sin. Any parent who loves their child sets healthy boundaries for them (rules of obedience). And every parent will tell you, children will test those boundaries. They don’t enjoy having to discipline their children, but they must, if they want to raise healthy, well adjusted adults who function well in society.

Prayer: Lord, when I am faced with temptation, give me the strength to overcome, so that I can become steadfast in my faith. When I do sin, help me to be quick to repent.  Father, I know the boundaries You have given me are for my good. I know You are trying to protect me, not deprive me. 

Lord, when Iife throws hardship or pain my way, remind me that You are with me. I never have to suffer alone. Protect my heart from anger and bitterness. Help me to respond in ways that are life giving, knowing that this is just a season, it will pass. 

Nothing I have endured can compare to what Jesus willingly did for me, so I will strive to endure with patience. Thank You Lord for giving us the perfect example for how to navigate this life. 

Beautiful Feet

Posted in Bible Study by

How beautiful are the feet of those who preach the good news
Romans 10:15 ESV

In the previous verses of Romans Chapter 10, Paul is talking about the gift of salvation for all. Christianity was a new religion at this time, even though it was birthed in Jewish tradition and God’s promise to Abraham to make him the “father of many nations”.

Living in America, it can be easy to think everyone here knows who Jesus is. Who am I to push my religion on others? That mindset is a problem. Culture has tried to silence the voice of the church but God has promised the gates of hell will not prevail.

Knowing about Jesus and knowing Him are two very different things. Sharing our faith isn’t about pushing religion on anyone, it’s about giving hope to those who have never experienced the goodness of God’s grace. It’s about the power of redemption.

Every believer is an ambassador for Christ. When I walk out my front door, I enter the mission field. When I log on to social media, I enter the mission field.

How do my words and actions reflect my faith? Do they create a hunger to know God in those I impact? Does my walk line up with my talk? Are the shoes on my feet shod with the “preparation of the gospel of peace”? (Ephesians 6:15)

Prayer: Lord, give me beautiful feet, ready and willing to share the good news of the gospel with anyone who needs it.

Give me courage and remind me, even if someone rejects my words, I am planting seeds of faith in their hearts.

Help me to overcome the fear of rejection. Let my love for Yyou, and others be a driving force in my willingness to share my faith, regardless of the cost or outcome. amen

Vacation 2022: Renewed with Passion

Posted in Updates by

I’m so thankful for the many years God has blessed me with the opportunity to get together for a time of fun in sun with extended family. It’s easy to allow the busyness of life to overwhelm us and keep us from truly enjoying our life.

I don’t want to look back at the end of my life and regret not focusing on what really matters … my relationship with God and others. Even though I am semi-retired, I have a busy schedule between church, my part-time job, writing and ministry. I love my life! Even so, there are times I need to take a break and just chill.

The beach and the mountains are two of my favorite places to seek out for a time of refreshing and renewal. At home I am usually awake by 6:00 a.m. The past two weeks I’ve given myself permission to turn off the alarm clock and wake up when my body wants to. I missed a lot of beautiful sunrises over the beach, but thankfully friends and family captured what I missed.

My typical morning ritual is to wake up, fix my coffee and begin my day with time in worship, the Word and prayer. I have relished my time with God these past few weeks and to my delight God has blessed me with a renewed desire to press forward with many of the dreams He planted in my heart years ago. My intent in retirement was always to use it serving the Lord.

Last week, I got my website updated; something I have needed to do for a couple of years. Yesterday I scheduled a speaking engagement with Teen Challenge in November. While these might not sound like typical vacation activities, they are life giving to me. My heart is filled with joyful expectation.

Today is our last day. I had hoped to get my feet in the sand or relax in the pool; instead God treated us to a beautiful thunderstorm with a majestic view of a waterspout. I’ll take it! Perfect nap weather. See you soon friends.

Blessings🌻 Deb

Blow off the Proverbial Dust

Posted in Updates by

If I were writing with a typewriter, I’d be blowing off the proverbial dust about now. It’s been a while. A long while. So much has happened since I last connected with you. I could say I’ve been busy, but honestly that would just be an excuse. We make time for what we prioritize, right? So, please forgive me.

Part of my excuse is it took me FOREVER to adapt to the WordPress changes. I hate to admit that, but as the old saying goes, “It is what it is.” The older I get the more difficult it becomes to adjust to change. So …what have I been up to the last two years?

  • In 2019 I took on a part time, which turned into a full time, caregiving role for one of my aunts as she struggled with Dementia. I wouldn’t wish that disease on anyone. It’s very difficult to watch someone you love suffer. My aunt passed away peacefully in April of this year.
  • In 2020 I wrote and published my second book, BREAKTHROUGH: Prepare for Battle.
  • Of course, we all know what happened in January 2020 … COVID-19 turned our lives upside down. I never thought I’d live to see the day America would shut down. Most of us know someone who was deeply impacted by this pandemic. If you lost a loved one, my condolences.
  • Last year I created a Facebook Group called TRANSFORMED. For nine solid months God gave me a word each morning on the transforming power of the Word of God. The subtitle was, “One Word From God Can Change Your Life.” It was an amazing experience for me. Then one day, the inspiration suddenly stopped. Since September 2021 I have prayed for God to show me how He wants to use the material developed over those nine months. I’m still not sure if it will be a book, or a course, but I’m learning to patiently wait on the Lord for direction.
  • At the end of May 2022, I did something I never thought I’d want to do again; I bought a new home. A new townhouse to be more precise. A new subdivision was being developed and I passed it on the way to visit a family member. I was drawn to it, and just thought, I’d go check it out. I fell in love and it’s been home now for three months.
  • Another door the Lord opened for me was to take online classes to be come a certified Mental Health Coach. Needless to say, it’s been a very long time since I was in school, but I’m pleased to say, so far I have a 97% average. I have always had an interest in mental health and I’m excited to see how God uses this. I will not be a licensed counselor so my coaching will be free, and I have a feeling the Lord will use this more for video content and online interaction. We’ll see. I am hoping to complete the courses by the end of this year.
  • Also jail ministry reopened in 2022 at the Duval County jail. As some of you may remember, this ministry is near and dear to my heart. Last month we had 15 inmates and six of them committed to follow Jesus!!! Praise His name!
  • One of the things I am prayerfully considering is starting a YouTube channel where I could post “Just a minute” segments and monthly video messages. Please join me in praying for God’s will and timing on this. The past few months the Lord has been rebirthing old dreams within me. I’m so thankful He finishes the work He starts within us.

GOD IS GOOD! Now, it’s your turn. What’s been happening in your world? Share your highlights in the comments. Moving forward I am hoping to post a monthly update here.

Blessings 🌻 Deb

It’s our time to SHINE

Posted in Bible Study by

“By this all people will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another.”” John 13:35 ESV

image_316b5b09-292a-40bb-aa83-ff650d819b8d‭

As I read this scripture this morning God brought me to a new place. I love how personal He is. God has called us to a place of love and unity. That unity, or lack thereof, has a major influence on how unbelievers see Christians.  There are many evils that seek to separate us and drive us apart because the enemy knows a divided house cannot stand.

Crisis tends to bring people together. 9/11 was a perfect example. With COVID-19 however, we are being told to physically isolate ourselves, at a time when being with our tribe is even more comforting.

My challenge to you today is this: How can God use you during this time of isolation? I’ve seen some very creative ways people are reaching out to others without putting themselves or others in danger. Driveby birthday parties, singing outside nursing home windows and apartment balconies are just a few examples.  One of our small groups from church wrote thank you cards to doctors and had one of the doctors who attends our church deliver them to his co-workers.

There are endless opportunities for us to SHINE right now. Will you take advantage of this time? Call or text someone each day, to encourage them and let them know they are in your thoughts and prayers. Start a Facebook group among friends to gather socially online. Connect with family over Zoom. Send cards, write letters. Drop off a meal to a senior or single, etc.

I’d love to hear your ideas of ways we can SHINE during this time. Please share in the comments so your ideas can spur and inspire others.

Blessings!

~ Deb ~

 

The Purpose of Spiritual Gifts

Posted in Bible Study by

As each has received a gift, use it to serve one another, as good stewards of God’s varied grace:” 1 Peter‬ ‭4:10‬ ‭ESV‬‬

Normally when someone gives us a gift it is for our benefit. God is no different, yet His word tells us to use our spiritual gifts to serve others. He gives us stewardship over our gifts.

How does serving others benefit us? It benefits us in two powerful ways:

  1. It gives purpose and meaning to our lives. Those who spend their lives using their talents to serve and benefit others experience a satisfaction that far exceeds a life of selfish ambition. Do you want your life to ‘make a difference’? Leave your mark on humanity by using your God given gifts to serve others. (“The greatest among you shall be your servant. Whoever exalts himself will be humbled, and whoever humbles himself will be exalted.” Matthew‬ ‭23:11-12‬ ‭ESV‬‬)
  2. When We are good stewards of God’s gifts, we are storing eternal treasures in Heaven. Whatever possessions we acquire in this life will be left behind at our death. If our lives have been spent gratifying our own desires our reward will not stand the test of eternity. However, when our lives have been lived with eternity in mind, serving God and others, we will reap a reward that cannot be destroyed by death. (“Do not lay up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy and where thieves break in and steal, but lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust destroys and where thieves do not break in and steal.” Matthew‬ ‭6:19-20‬ ‭ESV‬‬)

Pray: Father, thank you for the spiritual gifts You’ve given me. Help me be a good and faithful steward of these gifts. Lord, use my life to bless others. Help me to find meaning and purpose to life by pouring out my life in service to You and others. Amen

24/7 Praise

Posted in Bible Study by

From the rising of the sun to it’s going down the Lord’s name is to be praised. (Psalms 113:3 NKJV)

I have always loved music … especially praise/worship music. It’s hard to explain, but when I worship the Lord, it’s like a taste of Heaven on Earth. Praise takes us into His presence.

I’ve been reading a book called, “Imagine Heaven” by John Burke. The book shares a glimpse of Heaven through the stories of people who have survived near death experiences. One of the things people consistently report is the glorious worship in Heaven through music. I can’t wait to hear it. There is nothing in this world to compare with the glory that awaits us! In Heaven everything praises the Lord, including plant life.

He is worthy to be praised! My encouragement to you today is to lift your eyes toward Heaven and embrace His presence. The things of Earth (problems, trials, heartache) dim in comparison to His glory.

Eye has not seen, nor ear heard, nor have entered into the heart of man the things which God has prepared for those who love Him. (1Corinthians 2:9 NKJV)

God’s Best is in the Waiting

Posted in Bible Study by

But those who wait on the Lord Shall renew their strength; They shall mount up with wings like eagles, They shall run and not be weary, They shall walk and not faint. – Isaiah 40:31 NKJV

img_1651

I don’t know about you, but if I am honest, I don’t like waiting. We live in a world of instant gratification. We want what we want, and we want it now.

I remember my Father teaching me the benefit of ‘delayed gratification’ as a young child. When the Beatles became popular in America he took me to a store to purchase one of their albums. Unfortunately, they were sold out. They did have singles available (aka 45’s). My dad gave me an option, you can have the single now, or wait until the album comes in and get that. As a preteen it was almost unbearable to think of leaving that store empty handed. In the end, I took his advice and chose well. With much anticipation I then waited for the album to be restocked. It’s a lesson I never forgot. The things we value are worth waiting for. 

There are several things I’m still waiting for in life. I’m sure you can relate. I confess, I don’t understand God’s timing, but I trust it. I trust it because I have seen the brokenness that results when I try to make things happen on my own. 

As difficult as it may seem, God has a purpose in the waiting. His timing is always perfect. I’ve often wondered how many times I missed out on God’s best because I settled for the “single” instead of waiting on the “album”. 

One way I can apply today’s verse is this … if I am weary or faint, I can examine my heart and ask myself, what is it I am trying to do in my own strength or timing instead of waiting on the Lord? Don’t misunderstand. I’m not saying we should sit around and do nothing. God calls us to GO, to be doers of the Word.

The difference is, when we flow in His timing:

  • our strength is renewed
  • we can soar like eagles above the difficulty of trying to figure everything out ourselves
  •  we can run and not grow weary
  •  we can walk and not faint

PRAYER: Father, thank You for Your perfect timing. Thank You for the promise of renewed strength when we learn to wait expectantly on You. Help me to be so sensitive to Your voice that I know when to run and when to wait. Help me to never run ahead of You. 

Lord, I may not always understand the delay in Your promise, but I trust You. I know Your Word will not return void. You are not a man that You should lie.

Forgive me for the many times I have missed Your best for my life because I tried to take matters into my own hands instead of waiting on You. Thank You for protecting me even while allowing me to reap the consequences of my actions. You are a good, good Father.

Amen

 

Overcoming Temptation

Posted in Bible Study by

“But He answered and said, “It is written, ‘Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceeds from the mouth of God.’ ”” ‭‭Matthew‬ ‭4:4‬ ‭NKJV‬‬

img_1609In Matthew 4:1-12 We see Jesus being led into the wilderness, by the Holy Spirit, to be tempted by Satan. After Jesus fasted for forty day’s Satan’s first temptation was for Jesus to turn stones into bread, to satisfy His physical hunger. While Jesus certainly could have done this, I believe His response was an indication that God had not released Him from His fast. Jesus was waiting for a WORD from God.

Even though Jesus was fully man, He was also fully God and He with the Father when Satan attempted to take over the throne. He recognized His enemy. He knew how to respond to the tempter.

Here are three valuable lessons we can learn from these verses.

◾️ We do not have to fight the enemy in our own strength. Jesus did not respond to Satan out of emotion or logic. He responded with faith in God’s voice as the guiding force of His life. If we want to overcome the enemy we too have to learn to distinguish all other voices from the voice of the Father.
◾️ Satan knows The Word. Just because someone quotes scripture to you doesn’t mean they are a true messenger from God. When Jesus responded to the first temptation with, “It is written”, Satan changed his strategy. He shifted to quoting scripture out of context. He challenged Jesus to throw Himself off the pinnacle of the temple. Satan tried to bully Jesus into proving He was the Son of God. Jesus was confident in His relationship with the Father. He had nothing to prove, especially to His enemy! 2 Timothy 2:15(KJV) admonishes us … “Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.” It takes time to develop knowledge of the Word. As a Christian this must be a priority in our life if we want to be victorious. We cannot rely on others to spoon feed us the Word. We have to learn to feed ourselves. People can twist scripture to justify just about anything. When we know of heart of God we have a better understanding of His written Word.
◾️ The Word is a weapon. Even though Jesus was the Son of God, He responded to temptation with, “It is written”. Hebrews 4:12NKJV tells us: “For the word of God is living and powerful, and sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing even to the division of soul and spirit, and of joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart.” Jesus could have rebuked Satan at the first temptation, but I believe chose to withstand the temptation to show you and I that we can overcome by following His example. Take a proactive approach to temptation instead of a reactive approach. Most of us know the things that are a struggle for us to overcome. Look up, write down, and memorize scriptures that address your issues, or encourage you to press through. Have those scriptures ready and available when you need them.
PRAYER: Father, I thank You that Your Word is more powerful than any temptation I will ever face. Thank You for the written Word, and for the voice of the Holy Spirit whom You sent to teach, lead and empower us. Give me the wisdom to discern Your voice over the voice of the enemy. As I study Your Word, Father birth spiritual insight and revelation within me. I am eternally thankful that, “greater is He that is within me, than he that is in the world”! Amen