Who is this man?

And what does he have to do with you?

I came across a thoughtful statement in a Beth Moore study that many of our ladies are going through as a group. Within the text is an encouraging segment on the examples of certain heroes of our faith that made a monumental difference for the Kingdom, but were pretty normal kind of people. That alone blows my mind right there, because I often muse about doing big things for God, but convince myself that it takes a lot more that what I've got to make it happen. These champions are the modern day Moses, Joshua, and David.

Regarding the commitment of William Carey to spread the gospel in India in the late 1700's despite hardships, struggles, many twists and turns of supposed ministry paths, and little acceptance of the good news for many years, he persevered to an ultimate breakthrough of God's love and life-giving truth toward an otherwise lost people. (For details, I encourage you to investigate the whole of William Carey's story where I'm sure you will find many streams of encouragement.)

Beth Moore writes, "We must persevere in our commitment to Christ, not in our commitment to our commitment." (Believing God, p. 176) Ouch! Sometimes I get more motivated by reaching goals in my spiritual walk than by simply reaching toward my Savior. Oh I know the bible reading plans build our faith, and I know the chapters of study material deepen our walk and application of Scripture. To that end, there is no doubt. But I cannot say that my motivation is always purely to know God more and to infuse His purpose in my life.

May the Lord continue to draw us close to Him, that we may know of His goodness and execute it outwardly in all aspects of life. May the steps we take toward our spiritual goals be the by-product of the simplicity of following Christ.

Of Mary who sat at Jesus' feet.....

"Martha, Martha," the Lord answered, "you are worried and upset about many things, but only one thing is needed. Mary has chosen what is better, and it will not be taken away from her." Luke 10:41-42

"No, but..."

Not a direct quote from God, but that was more or less the beginning of His response to King David who desired to build a temple for the presence of the Lord to dwell in (2 Sam 7). I always saw that particular interaction as somewhat of a chastisement from God upon David. His heart seemed to be in the right place and he wanted to do something grand for the Lord. But God did not want David to take on this feat. David was a "man of war". During his reign there was a lot of bloodshed and tension from Israel's adversaries.

In actuality, the answer God gave was a response of grace. Later, we find out that it took seven years to build the temple and that was after the plans had already been given for it as well as much of the supplies of precious metals, costly stones, and wood were accumulated for its construction. Can you imagine how much preparation and manpower it would have taken only one dynasty to oversee? Keep in mind that they didn't have the industrious railroad or highways filled with semis to deliver commodities in that day. God simply knew that there were not long enough periods of peace in the land while David was king to effectively accomplish the entirety of this this work.

It was also an answer full of love. God gave David a gift in allowing the project to be completed by his son Solomon, providing David with the design plans, and giving him access as king to the costly supplies mentioned earlier. David was allowed to play a huge role in the building process. Looking past the initial response and observing more deeply into the unfolding of events, we can see how God wisely distributes grace toward His children. That includes every one of them. You and I as well. Bask in the love that He lavishes upon you and know that it's OK when God denies or delays our requests for a greater good.

Watch and Learn

So many great things have been said in memory of my grandma who passed away during the holidays. She was a beautiful believer who really made an impact in so many lives. I always remember her making us, her grandchildren, feel loved and her pride in her family was very evident. Reflection on her life brings a new richness and reality to the command that Scripture gives us on living out our faith. Even those moments that may seem small (giving a compliment, listening to someone share, giving a hug or a smile) go a long way and make a big difference. Don't hold back.

James 1:22-25 says, "Do not merely listen to the word, and so deceive yourselves. Do what it says. Anyone who listens to the word but does not do what it says is like a man who looks at his face in a mirror and, after looking at himself, goes away and immediately forgets what he looks like. But the man who looks intently into the perfect law that gives freedom, and continues to do this, not forgetting what he has heard, but doing it—he will be blessed in what he does."

Although imperfect, like any of us, my grandma was a great example of spirit-filled living. Think about the people in your life who set an example that you respect. But don't just watch, challenge yourself to live it out too.