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Post by Parker on Feb 9, 2023 5:44:23 GMT -8
Respect the Elderly
Stand up in the presence of the aged, show respect for the elderly and revere your God. I am the LORD.
LEVITICUS 19:32
Years can bring improvement in decision making, perspective, understanding of people, and intimacy with God and those closest to us. The elderly represent a reservoir of wisdom waiting to be tapped. They tell stories of real-life events that challenge, educate, and entertain. Those who love Jesus and are approaching their twilight years have an eternal perspective that is infectious. They see God for who He is.
And yet, though they may have these positive traits, we sometimes hesitate to spend time with the aged, even those who are our own flesh and blood. Why is this so? Yes, some are hard to get along with. Others smell as if they’ve been trapped indoors (often because they have), and others are high maintenance. This is hard, but it is temporary. Before you know it they will be gone. How many more days do you have with a parent, grandparent, or mentor?
As the sand is rushing toward the bottom of the hourglass, what are some ways you can demonstrate respect toward the elderly? One way is to spend time with them. Consider a regular visit to the nursing home or retirement center. Love on them by showing up with flowers and reading an uplifting portion of Scripture. Listen to their hopes, dreams, and regrets. Capture in your memory the nuggets of wisdom, unique thoughts, and important ideas that remind you of how you want (or don’t want) to live your life. Look for snapshots of life that you can emulate and pass along to your children and children’s children.
You can also respect your elders by inviting them to visit you rather than you visiting them. Your parents may need to move in with you so you can love them 24/7. Yes, this is a huge commitment. Parenting your parents is more difficult than parenting your children. Their needs are more complicated, and they certainly do not want to be told what to do.
But you love them anyway. You respect them even when they are not respectable. Seize this time. Don’t let it slip by in the abyss of busyness. This is your opportunity to teach your kids how to treat you one day. Your respect for the elderly is a reflection of your reverence for God. Love, serve, and respect them as if you were doing the same for Christ.
How can I schedule regular time to learn from and love on the elderly?
Related Readings
Job 32:4-6; Proverbs 16:31; Romans 13:7; 1 Timothy 5:1-2
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Post by Parker on Feb 10, 2023 5:45:04 GMT -8
Christ’s Calling
He said to them, “Follow Me, and I will make you fishers of men.”
Immediately they left their nets and followed Him.
MATTHEW 4:19-20 NASB
Jesus calls all of His disciples to minister in their homes and in the marketplace. However, He also calls some of His followers to vocational ministry. Many times, this calling comes to ordinary men and women who accomplish extraordinary results. Whom does He call? Christ’s call comes to those who have a hungry heart for God.
Like Paul, you might have been smitten suddenly by a revelation of Jesus as Lord. Or perhaps you were like David, who gradually went from caring for sheep to caring for God’s people. Wherever Christ calls, His first commands are to love God and to love people. A calling without love is like a car without gasoline. It may be attractive on the outside, but it isn’t going anywhere. So love large wherever the Lord has called you.
Furthermore, He has called you to endure hardship. “You have persevered and have endured hardships for my name, and have not grown weary” (Revelation 2:3). Christians are not immune to conflict. In fact, your faith will be challenged at times. So don’t seek to shelter your life from adversity. Rather, position yourself in obedience to Christ’s calling. Your regular routine of serving Him will help you to see what He has in store.
Make sure you minister first to your wife and children. Don’t be like the cobbler who has no shoes for his family. You gain creditability for Christ as you live out your faith with those who know you the best. What does it profit a man if he saves the whole world and loses his family? A calling to family first frees you to evangelize and disciple with God’s favor. His calling aligns with His commands, so service for Him is seamless.
Above all, the Lord is looking for those already engaged in His Word, growing in their character, and active in sharing their faith. His calling comes to Christians who desire the Holy Spirit to conform them to the image of Christ. Your humble imitation of Jesus flows from your intimate walk with Him. He calls those whom He can trust. So do not look for your calling. Look for Christ, and He will reveal His calling to you.
“I, even I, have spoken;
yes, I have called him.
I will bring him,
and he will succeed in his mission” (Isaiah 48:15).
What is Christ’s calling for my life? Am I steadfast in loving the Lord and people?
Related Readings
Acts 9:10; 1 Corinthians 7:17; Hebrews 5:4; Revelation 7:14
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Post by Parker on Feb 11, 2023 5:19:57 GMT -8
Uniquely Gifted
I wish that all of you were as I am.
But each of you has your own gift from God; one has this gift, another has that.
1 CORINTHIANS 7:7
Our generous heavenly Father gives unique gifts to His children for His glory—gifts of service, encouragement, teaching, mercy, administration, and so on. Regardless of one’s role, all gifts are necessary in the body of Christ. One quietly serves as a prayer intercessor behind the scenes while another boldly proclaims truth in front of the faithful. Yes, the Lord specially equips individuals for His good works. God’s distinctive gifting is a sign that He values each one of us.
What do you do well? How can you discover your sweet spot of service for your Savior Jesus? One way is to develop your natural abilities and engage in activities that energize you. The Spirit wires you in a way that brings you pleasure when you exercise your gift. For example, a generous giver finds great joy in giving, and evangelists are ecstatic when they share the gospel. An administrator is not content until everyone and everything is in its place.
“We are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do” (Ephesians 2:10).
You may be an analytical thinker who loves crunching numbers, managing data, and interpreting trends. Your gift of linear deduction is critical for business, finance, engineering, and the like. Perhaps you are great with people. People love your company because they sense you know, understand, and care for them. Your ability to network, convene a group, and lead others is valuable for accomplishing a big vision or executing a strategic initiative. Steward well God’s unique gift to you.
Seek to marry your passion with your giftedness. For instance, if you love to see someone encouraged, use your gift of writing to convey God’s love to their hungry heart. If you love children, use your ability to nurture and train as a conduit for Christ’s truth. If you love sports, use your teaching gift to lead athletes in Bible study. If you love travel, use your aptitude for business to help entrepreneurs here and abroad. Be whoever God has uniquely gifted you to be!
“We have different gifts, according to the grace given to each of us” (Romans 12:6).
Heavenly Father, use my gift from You to bring You glory. Marry Your gift with my passion.
Related Readings
Romans 12:3-8; 1 Corinthians 12; 14:12; Ephesians 4:11-12
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Post by civic on Feb 11, 2023 5:25:23 GMT -8
Uniquely GiftedI wish that all of you were as I am. But each of you has your own gift from God; one has this gift, another has that. 1 CORINTHIANS 7:7Our generous heavenly Father gives unique gifts to His children for His glory—gifts of service, encouragement, teaching, mercy, administration, and so on. Regardless of one’s role, all gifts are necessary in the body of Christ. One quietly serves as a prayer intercessor behind the scenes while another boldly proclaims truth in front of the faithful. Yes, the Lord specially equips individuals for His good works. God’s distinctive gifting is a sign that He values each one of us. What do you do well? How can you discover your sweet spot of service for your Savior Jesus? One way is to develop your natural abilities and engage in activities that energize you. The Spirit wires you in a way that brings you pleasure when you exercise your gift. For example, a generous giver finds great joy in giving, and evangelists are ecstatic when they share the gospel. An administrator is not content until everyone and everything is in its place. “We are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do” (Ephesians 2:10). You may be an analytical thinker who loves crunching numbers, managing data, and interpreting trends. Your gift of linear deduction is critical for business, finance, engineering, and the like. Perhaps you are great with people. People love your company because they sense you know, understand, and care for them. Your ability to network, convene a group, and lead others is valuable for accomplishing a big vision or executing a strategic initiative. Steward well God’s unique gift to you. Seek to marry your passion with your giftedness. For instance, if you love to see someone encouraged, use your gift of writing to convey God’s love to their hungry heart. If you love children, use your ability to nurture and train as a conduit for Christ’s truth. If you love sports, use your teaching gift to lead athletes in Bible study. If you love travel, use your aptitude for business to help entrepreneurs here and abroad. Be whoever God has uniquely gifted you to be! “We have different gifts, according to the grace given to each of us” (Romans 12:6). Heavenly Father, use my gift from You to bring You glory. Marry Your gift with my passion. Related Readings Romans 12:3-8; 1 Corinthians 12; 14:12; Ephesians 4:11-12 This was good thank you for sharing it. I just had this very conversation with my wife and son in law who is a pastor. I'm about to meet with him and a couple other men at 6am and I'm going to share this with them this morning before our study/fellowship/discipleship time. |
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Post by Parker on Feb 12, 2023 5:27:59 GMT -8
Good Leaders Follow
If [your gift] is to encourage, then give encouragement; if it is giving, then give generously; if it is to lead, do it diligently; if it is to show mercy, do it cheerfully.
ROMANS 12:8
Gifted leaders are first and foremost good followers of God. They recognize the gift Giver as their authority, so they do not lord over others. Rather, they submit themselves to the Lord. Because leaders respect Christ, they respect those they lead. Because they love the Lord, they love their team. Because they serve Jesus, they serve those who serve with them. A gifted leader is able to educate a group and influence them toward a common goal. Leaders have followers.
Are you called to lead but held back by feelings of inferiority? If so, find your confidence in Christ. Let Him be your resource for reassurance. Resistance does not mean you are a bad leader. On the contrary, it may be a validation that you are moving in the right direction. Many people struggle when getting on the bandwagon of change—it threatens their security. So stay the course and lead prayerfully, patiently, and lovingly. Trust the Spirit’s small voice as it affirms your actions—God is with you.
“Love must be sincere. Hate what is evil; cling to what is good. Be devoted to one another in love. Honor one another above yourselves. Never be lacking in zeal, but keep your spiritual fervor, serving the Lord. Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer” (Romans 12:9-12).
You know you have the gift of leadership if you can see the big picture and inspire others toward that God-given vision. You understand the sequence of steps required to reach the objectives. You perceive potential problems and make adjustments with wisdom and courage. You motivate the team to embrace transitions as necessary to stay relevant. You create a culture of accountability with real-time updates. No one wants to let anyone down in the execution process.
Your gift of leadership is a weighty responsibility, but you are not alone. Almighty God is your “go to” for humility, holiness, and wisdom. God gives you what you need to accomplish what He wants. Use your leadership role to invest in other emerging leaders. It is harder to grow leaders than it is to lead. Therefore, be intentional and prayerful as you train up faithful men and women who will train others. You steward your leadership best by developing other leaders!
“And David shepherded them with integrity of heart;
with skillful hands he led them” (Psalm 78:72).
Heavenly Father, lead me so that in humility I can lead others in Your ways.
Related Readings
Exodus 32:21; 1 Samuel 18:16; Isaiah 48:21; 1 Corinthians 1:10; 1 Timothy 6:11-12
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Post by Parker on Feb 13, 2023 5:21:09 GMT -8
Trust Perseveres
For the King trusts in the LORD, through the unfailing love of the Most High he will not be shaken.
PSALM 21:7
Trust in God perseveres. It perseveres the higher it goes in responsibilities or the lower it goes in lost opportunities. Whether in the excitement of promotion or the discouragement of demotion, it still trusts God. In fact, the more responsibility we gain, the more we need God. The more capable we seem to be, the more we realize we are incapable without Christ. Power may tempt us to lower our guard in trusting God, but the more responsibility and power we are entrusted with, the more we need to trust the Lord. Kings and presidents need Christ as much as or more than paupers and priests. Trust is not contingent on our felt need. It is contingent on our having a pulse. As long as we have breath, we desperately need the Lord.
Self-confidence is an obstacle to our holy confidence in Christ. He sees us through. Trust in Him perseveres.
Trust perseveres because it is buoyant in its belief in the unfailing love of God. The love of God stands secure in the face of suffering. The love of God licks the wounds of a lacerated soul. The love of God provides the grace to forgive and to forget. The love of God continues in the face of ugly odds because of its optimistic hope in Christ. God’s love draws us into intimacy with Him. When we know God loves us, we feel safe and secure. When we know God loves us, we feel support and encouragement. The love of God covers our sin of unbelief. It is a buttress for our belief. When we are at our lowest, the love of the Most High lifts us up so we can continue trusting our sympathizing Savior. He is high and lifted up, so He can lift us up. He looks down on us with compassion. Because He is trustworthy, we trust Him.
No one is higher than Almighty God. He is the Most High. We have the privilege, the opportunity, and the obligation to go right to the top. The Holy Spirit is our guide. By faith we can trust Him to intercede on our behalf. Our faith may be faltering in our confusion, but Christ clarifies. Do not give up because of the complexities of your current situation. Go to the Most High to unravel the mess in which you find yourself. He is the decision maker. He is your Maker. He knows how to guide you through this uncertain process. The Most High has the needed perspective to see you through. By faith, we do not falter. Trust Him to tell you what you need to know. Persevere.
The fruit of trust is perseverance. The high winds of adversity may attempt to uproot your faith, but you will persevere. You will persevere in your marriage even though our culture gives you a pass for divorce. You will persevere in your job even though you have been passed over for someone less qualified. You will persevere as a parent because this may be your time to mature and grow up. You will persevere as a leader because God is not finished spreading your influence. You will persevere as a Christian because you trust God. By God’s grace you will not be moved. Allow Him to grow your character. Stand strong. Allow Him to love you through this time of transition. Trust perseveres.
Heavenly Father, I trust You to see me through this hard time at home and at work.
Related Readings
1 Corinthians 13:7; Hebrews 10:36; 11:27; James 1:12; 5:11; Revelation 2:3
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Post by Parker on Feb 14, 2023 5:33:28 GMT -8
We, Not Me
Now you are the body of Christ, and each one of you is a part of it.
1 CORINTHIANS 12:27
There is a larger context to life than just living for self. A self-focused life is chronically frustrated and unable to reach its full potential. Its demanding demur marginalizes wise counsel and attracts insecure individuals. However, those who pray for what’s best for the whole, become whole. Everyone is honored in an environment where individual contributions are valued. “We, not me” is the vocabulary of those who honor each other.
Every disciple is stronger when connected to other Christ followers. Isolation contributes to spiritual impotence, but community gives spiritual life. Encouragement and accountability flow freely in relationships that prioritize what’s best for the group. A leader who serves the team will see other team members serve well. A man who serves his family will enjoy a family that serves each other. “We overcomes me” with unselfish service.
“Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace in its various forms” (1 Peter 4:10).
Our spiritual birth grafted us into Christ’s body. We cannot dissociate one of the Lord’s appendages any more than we can detach a member of our physical body from the other body parts. So we pray for those around us who know Christ, and we get to know each other. Oh, the joy of being known and knowing others who love Him! Life that is truly life is lived in the margins with those submitted to our Savior Jesus.
Are you motivated first by “He,” second by “we,” and last by “me”? If so, you are set up for relational fulfillment. The sequence for successful thinking is Him, them, and you. “Me” will try to squeeze in and monopolize relationships, cannibalize conversations, and hijack heaven’s agenda. So by God’s grace, put to death the “me” monster and replace it with love for the Lord and people. “We, not me” is the motto of mature followers of Jesus.
“Let no debt remain outstanding, except the continuing debt to love one another, for whoever loves others has fulfilled the law” (Romans 13:8).
Lord, whose needs can I put ahead of mine through my prayers and service?
Related Readings
Romans 12:10-16; 14:13; 15:7; 2 Corinthians 13:11; Galatians 5:13
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Post by Parker on Feb 15, 2023 6:06:56 GMT -8
Image Control
If someone else thinks they have reasons to put confidence in the flesh, I have more: circumcised on the eighth day, of the people of Israel, of the tribe of Benjamin, a Hebrew of Hebrews; in regard to the law, a Pharisee; as for zeal, persecuting the church; as for legalistic righteousness, faultless. But whatever were gains to me I now consider loss for the sake of Christ.
PHILIPPIANS 3:4-7
What is image control? It is making sure we appear as we want others to think we really are. Our exterior appearance becomes more important than our interior identity in Christ. We are concerned about, consumed by, or even obsessed with how we look, what we wear, what we drive, what school we attend, where we work, where we live, and so on.
However, image control is exhausting because it never is quite satisfied. Jobs have to be a little more prestigious, cars a little more luxurious, homes a little more opulent, and status a little higher. The curse of image control is subtle because it can be confused with godly ambition, which is good. Here’s the difference: The first is about striving for self, and the latter is about dying to self. Godly ambition does its best and trusts the Lord.
Image control suffers from a sense of superiority. It’s prompted by pride. Jesus describes a religious leader afflicted by his condescending attitude and lofty self-image. “The Pharisee stood by himself and prayed: ‘God, I thank you that I am not like other people—robbers, evildoers, adulterers—or even like this tax collector. I fast twice a week and give a tenth of all I get’ ” (Luke 18:11-12). Conversely, humility lifts up Jesus, not ourselves.
If we are not halted by humility we become like Narcissus, peering into a prideful pool, loving an image that is a figment of our imagination. Instead, as Spirit-filled followers of Jesus, we see ourselves as precious but peculiar people who are pilgrims just passing through—not encumbered by the weights of worldly expectations, but on our way to heaven. As we journey for Jesus we want our simple life to point others to our Savior.
So who is in control of your image? Have you surrendered your self-image to your Savior Jesus? Let go of the world’s shallow sense of worth and embrace your eternal value in the Lord. Almighty God has already set you apart as holy and acceptable to Him in Christ Jesus. He admires and celebrates Your inner beauty more than your outer image.
“Your beauty should not come from outward adornment, such as elaborate hairstyles and the wearing of gold jewelry and fine clothes. Instead, it should be that of your inner self, the unfading beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit, which is of great worth in God’s sight” (1 Peter 3:3-4).
How much energy do I exhaust in image control? Do I entrust my image to Christ?
Related Readings
Genesis 37:23-28; Ephesians 1:5-6; Hebrews 11:9-13; 1 Peter 2:9-11
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Post by Parker on Feb 16, 2023 5:42:45 GMT -8
Friendliness Attracts Friends
A man who has friends must himself be friendly, But there is a friend who sticks closer than a brother.
PROVERBS 18:24 NKJV
Friendly people are fun to be around. They are upbeat and look for the best in those they meet. Yes, friendliness can come on too strong, but those with relational understanding are sensitive enough to avoid going too far too fast. A friendly person makes you feel at ease and gives you unspoken permission to be yourself. You feel safe sharing your feelings with those who feel what you feel. Friendliness adds emotional energy to the conversation and encouragement to the heart.
Your friendly spirit qualifies you to make friends. Friends want to be around friends who know how to listen and love. Are you the giver in your friendships, or are you the taker? How can you intentionally invest in those the Lord has put in your life? Perhaps you pray by name for your friends’ children or even invite their children to visit overnight so the parents can enjoy a 24-hour respite. Friendly people risk making friends and follow with steps to retain friends. Friends care!
“An unfriendly person pursues selfish ends” (Proverbs 18:1).
A bond of trust and loyalty grows between two friends who try to out-serve each other. However, if giving goes only one way, over time the giver may grow weary in their solo service. Perhaps your heavenly Father is calling you to fewer but more fulfilling friendships. He may want you to ratchet back your relationships to a manageable number. Who needs you to go deeper in this season of friendship? Pray for your friend and be emotionally available to enter into his world.
Most importantly, lock arms with the Lord Jesus in your growing friendship with Him. Your maturing friendship with Christ will increase your capacity to love and care for your friends. Friendship with God brings reality to relationships on earth. Ask your friend to bow and pray with you to your mutual friend Jesus. Friends who pray together replace conflict with resolution and anger with joy. Confidants can be closer than blood relatives through the blood of Jesus!
“A friend loves at all times” (Proverbs 17:17).
Heavenly Father, I pray Your Spirit will grow a spirit of friendliness in my heart.
Related Readings
Exodus 33:11; Psalm 109:4; Proverbs 12:26; Acts 19:31; 24:23; 3 John 1
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Post by Parker on Feb 17, 2023 5:22:31 GMT -8
The Great Adventure
By faith Abraham, when called to go to a place he would later receive as his inheritance, obeyed and went, even though he did not know where he was going.
HEBREWS 11:8
We often discern God’s will through a series of discoveries. The transitions between these discoveries test the true nature of our faith. We can press forward by faith, or we can analyze the situation until we are paralyzed by uncertainty. Abraham continued toward the unknown because he was certain the Lord was leading him. Great adventure accompanies our obedience to God.
Believers who are bound and determined to obey Christ are not bored. Our love for the Lord compels us to conquer the next challenging circumstance and blaze new trails in prayer. We become soft and satisfied when we stop seeking the next kingdom opportunity. Our Savior Jesus is our guide as we travel in trust.
“He guides the humble in what is right
and teaches them his way” (Psalm 25:9).
Are you inspired by your faith adventure, or are you intimidated? Do you anticipate doing the next right thing as you fulfill God’s calling on your life, or do you dread whatever is ahead? Christ must come to you in clarity before you venture out for Him in obedience. But once you are sure of the Lord’s leading, don’t let up until you have arrived at His destination. Go on your great adventure with God and, as if you were on a visit to a new country, enjoy the new sites and people.
The Holy Spirit directs a life that’s on the move, not one that’s stuck—preoccupied with either pleasure or pain. “A man’s heart plans his way, but the LORD directs his steps” (Proverbs 16:9 NKJV). So make prayerful plans, but all the while remain nimble when God’s Spirit nudges you. If you fall in love with your plans, you may not notice an adjustment you need to make to follow the Almighty’s way.
There is a reward for those who remain true to God’s call. It may be simply the satisfaction of knowing you faithfully followed the Lord, but this is all that matters in the end. As a pilgrim passing through this life, launch your next eternal endeavor and experience the righteous ride with Him. Nothing risked may mean nothing lost, but every journey for Jesus holds the promise of great gain. Discover what He wants today, and it will lead to what He wants tomorrow.
“Lead me, LORD, in your righteousness
because of my enemies—
make your way straight before me” (Psalm 5:8).
What great adventure does God have for me? What can I do today to trust and obey?
Related Readings
Proverbs 11:3; Isaiah 48:17; Luke 4:1-2; Galatians 5:16-18
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Post by Parker on Feb 18, 2023 8:59:37 GMT -8
The Pursuit of Pleasure
Whoever loves pleasure will become poor; whoever loves wine and olive oil will never be rich.
PROVERBS 21:17
The unrestrained pursuit of pleasure leads to poverty. The logical result of a life devoted to pleasure is a man or woman poorly principled, poor with people, poor in soul, and poor in managing God’s provision. Pleasure without a greater purpose produces a lame life. However, earthly enjoyments, wed to God’s will, open up the windows of heaven. “And he made known to us the mystery of his will according to his good pleasure, which he purposed in Christ” (Ephesians 1:9). His pleasure is good.
Pleasure itself is not evil, but when it competes with our devotion to Christ, it is downright dangerous. Paul said in the last days we will live with this tension.
“But mark this: There will be terrible times in the last days. People will be lovers of themselves, lovers of money, boastful, proud, abusive, disobedient to their parents, ungrateful, unholy, without love, unforgiving, slanderous, without self-control, brutal, not lovers of the good, treacherous, rash, conceited, lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of God—having a form of godliness but denying its power” (2 Timothy 3:1-5).
Loving God versus loving pleasure. It’s not both-and, but either-or. We choose to love Christ or amuse ourselves to death. Luxurious living without the Lord is vain and unfulfilling. When you make pleasure subservient to serving your Savior, you will find fulfillment and peace. Retreat to the beach or mountains to find pleasure in God’s creation while enjoying Him and those you love. Enjoyment of life on earth is an outcome of obedience to eternal expectations in heaven.
Find pleasure where your heavenly Father finds pleasure. “His pleasure is not in the strength of the horse, nor his delight in the legs of the warrior; the LORD delights in those who fear him, who put their hope in his unfailing love” (Psalm 147:10-11). We bring Him pleasure by living in humble trust and submission to Him (Matthew 11:25-27). Therefore, take pleasure in Him.
How can I pursue the Lord’s pleasures?
Related Readings
Proverbs 10:23; Ephesians 1:5; 1 Timothy 5:6; Hebrews 11:25
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Post by Parker on Feb 19, 2023 10:54:58 GMT -8
Not Too Serious
You who are young, be happy while you are young, and let your heart give you joy in the days of your youth.
Follow the ways of your heart.
ECCLESIASTES 11:9
Sometimes we take ourselves too seriously. We get caught up in our little world of what we have to do, where we have to go, and who we have to please. Joy is jettisoned from our heart because we are driven by a have-to attitude. Unfortunately for our health and for those who love us, we become consumed by our agenda, our desires, our worries, our ideas, our work, our hobbies, and our needs. Sadly, our unmet expectations become joy killers with no heart.
How do you know whether you are taking yourself too seriously? Suddenly others become the objects of your fury. They don’t seem to take things seriously enough. You erroneously think, “If they would just do what I want and work as hard as me, both of our worlds would be much better off!” You act as if the Lord can’t get by without you. However, the reverse is true—you can’t get by without Him. So shed the world from your shoulders. Consider totally disconnecting from technology on your next vacation. No phone or email. Try it. Lighten up and let the Lord work for you.
“The LORD works righteousness
and justice for all the oppressed” (Psalm 103:6).
What is the solution for taking ourselves too seriously? Humility. A humble heart is free from the motivation of being the main attraction. When we walk in humility, we are content to be behind the scenes and let others receive the attention. Like Jesus and by His Spirit, we empty ourselves of our reputation and expectations, replacing them with His. We let go of our work and let God work. We learn to take ourselves less seriously and the Lord more seriously.
So enjoy the peace and contentment that accompany a non-acrimonious approach to life. Seek harmony, not hostility. Give instead of take. Laugh at yourself and laugh with others over your quirks. Be yourself. Be still. Know God. Joy comes from being with Jesus, so draft behind God instead of striving to get your way. Guard your heart from an overly serious state. Invite Christ’s calmness to relax your countenance and restore your smile.
“Jesus, full of joy through the Holy Spirit, said, ‘I praise you, Father, Lord of heaven and earth’ ” (Luke 10:21).
Heavenly Father, give me the courage to take myself less seriously and You more seriously.
Related Readings
Psalms 19:8; 126:2; Nehemiah 8:10; 1 Thessalonians 1:6; Philemon 7
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Post by Parker on Feb 20, 2023 5:48:29 GMT -8
Spiritual Intimacy
The LORD is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.
PSALM 34:18
Intimacy with God goes hand in hand with brokenness. In fact, brokenness escorts you into the intimacy you desire with your heavenly Father. It is your date with destiny. A broken and contrite heart makes room for intimacy with the Almighty. Don’t despise your broken condition. Rather, delight in the opportunity for intimacy it brings. You have longed to know Jesus in the power of His resurrection and the fellowship of His suffering (Philippians 3:10). These prayers were not in vain. Your brokenness can be the answer to your prayers. It may not be the answer you expected—you may have anticipated a smoother route, a paved road free of bumps or potholes. But the path to a personal and intimate relationship with Christ is not always easy.
Most of the time, intimacy requires difficulty. But of course, at this point of pressure and discomfort, some people disembark the train of intimacy. Talking about an intimate relationship with Christ is much easier than experiencing one through brokenness. To merely talk, however, is to choose convenience rather than commitment. It is like placing a “Do not disturb” sign on the door of your life rather than an invitation that says, “Clean up my room.” Brokenness is inviting God to come in and cleanse your life. He stands at the door of our hearts and knocks (Revelation 3:20). When you invite Christ into your broken life, He comes in. You then experience intimacy on His terms, not yours. Only when you surrender in total desperation and total dependency on God do you experience authentic intimacy.
Hardship and brokenness allow you to grow closer to other people as well. A crisis will either drive you further from people or closer to them. God’s best for you includes making your relationships stronger during a season of brokenness. But brokenness is not a one-time phenomenon. It is an ongoing part of the committed Christian’s life. It’s not as if you swallow this hard pill one time and are set for a lifetime of intimacy with God. Once God has marked you with brokenness, you are positioned for Him to build on this firm foundation. He will still use brief moments of brokenness throughout your life. These regular occurrences are like bricks, cemented together by His grace, to build His home in your heart.
Your brokenness is meant for your betterment. Indeed, you are much better for having endured a defining moment of brokenness. These moments deserve your embrace rather than your rejection. If you fight brokenness, you delay God’s best and circumvent intimacy with Christ. Focus your energies on changing yourself, not your circumstances. Christ will handle the circumstances while you adjust your attitude.
A life of brokenness is an invitation to intimacy. His closeness and salvation are worth the price. Don’t short-circuit this process. Instead, rely on Him and get to know Him at this deeper level of intimacy. You are much better when you are broken because brokenness leads to intimacy with God.
Heavenly Father, break my heart over what breaks Your heart. Draw me into deeper intimacy with You.
Related Readings
Psalms 34:20; 51:17; Isaiah 61:1; Hebrews 7:18-9; 10:22; James 4:8
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Post by Parker on Feb 21, 2023 5:28:43 GMT -8
Emotional Intimacy
That is why a man leaves his father and mother and is united to his wife, and they become one flesh.
GENESIS 2:24
Growing relationships require regular investments of emotional energy. Only humans have the capacity for emotional engagement—a level of feeling and understanding that machines or animals can never attain. Created in God’s image, we are able to engage in intimate encounters. Emotions are meant to move people toward the eternal.
Marriage partners especially require growing emotional intelligence to thrive and not merely survive. The Lord has created an emotional vacuum in husbands and wives that only their spouse can fill. It is folly to ignore this very real need for the sake of careers or children. Using these things as substitutes will only stunt emotional maturity. To be one flesh is to forge an alliance and an allegiance of minds, wills, and emotions.
“[Love] always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres” (1 Corinthians 13:7).
Jesus joined you and your wife together in holy matrimony. Are you growing in oneness? To share your passion is only to take one step. You have a lifetime to explore the world of feelings in your marriage bond. Make emotional investments in your marriage as you begin to understand each other’s needs. Are attention, security, and communication her top three needs? God gives you wisdom so that you can really come to know your wife.
You probably take time to consider your financial investments and save for the future. In the same way, take time to make wise emotional investments in your marriage. Emotional deposits today will yield unity and oneness tomorrow. Otherwise, you will grow old apart rather than together.
By faith, we become one with Christ. Then, with love, patience, and understanding, we become one with each other. Your oneness in marriage illustrates your faith in Christ.
“We ought always to thank God for you, brothers and sisters, and rightly so, because your faith is growing more and more, and the love you have for one another is increasing” (2 Thessalonians 1:3).
Lord, what do I need to know about my wife so that she feels loved and accepted by me?
Related Readings
Galatians 5:13; Hebrews 12:3,15; 1 Peter 2:2; 2 Peter 3:18
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Post by Parker on Feb 22, 2023 5:38:33 GMT -8
Physical Intimacy
The marriage bed must be a place of mutuality—the husband seeking to satisfy his wife, the wife seeking to satisfy her husband. Marriage is not a place to “stand up for your rights.” Marriage is a decision to serve the other, whether in bed or out.
1 CORINTHIANS 7:3-4 MSG
Our marital duty is neither to demand sex nor to endure sex, but to see it as an expression of love and respect. You have the unique privilege to connect with your wife at spiritual, emotional, and physical levels. Physical intimacy is a privilege reserved for marriage. Done well, it takes time and planning. Yes, there are those spontaneous intimate rendezvous, but we need to be students of our wife’s needs and desires. Connecting emotionally and communicating throughout the day often leads to physical intimacy at night.
The richest and most fulfilling physical intimacy flows out of emotional intimacy. When a husband and wife connect emotionally, they are better primed to connect physically. Indeed, physical intimacy is more than a transaction—it is a relational process that often finds its highest expression in the event of two becoming one. Women who deny their husbands for an unreasonable time can unwittingly signal disinterest and disrespect. Men who rush past the emotional needs of their wives ignore their need for security, attention, and respect.
“How beautiful you are, my darling!
Oh, how beautiful! Your eyes are doves.”
“How handsome you are, my beloved!
Oh, how charming! And our bed is verdant” (Song of Solomon 1:15-16).
Reserve the marriage bed as a sanctuary for sleep and an enclave for physical intimacy. Avoid other activities in the bedroom—this is not the place for television, food, computers, sleeping kids, and dogs. Create a haven for physical intimacy, and you will experience greater oneness. Throughout the day, be intentional about creating emotional chemistry with notes, phone calls, caring words, empathetic listening, gifts, and kind acts of service.
As followers of Jesus, and because of your spiritual synergy and emotional engagement, you and your wife have the opportunity for the most fulfilling physical intimacy. Ask the Lord for creative ways to love your lover as she loves to be loved. Your marriage relationship illustrates the relationship between Christ (the groom) and His church (the bride). Indeed, physical affection flows from spiritual and emotional intimacy. So be prayerfully intentional and watch your relationship go from good to great for God’s glory.
“Like an apple tree among the trees of the forest
is my beloved among the young men.
I delight to sit in his shade,
and his fruit is sweet to my taste.
Let him lead me to the banquet hall,
and let his banner over me be love” (Song of Songs 2:3-4).
Heavenly Father, give me the grace and wisdom to connect with my wife spiritually, emotionally, and physically.
Related Readings
Genesis 4:1; 25:21; Song of Songs 2:14; 4:16; 1 Peter 3:7
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