Life Changing Gratitude

Did you know that a "Habit" of Gratitude . . .
1. Increases your natural antibodies
2. Is associated with healthier blood pressure and heart rate
3. Speeds healing for recipients of donated organs.
* Debbie Macomber (One Simple Act) quoting Stephan Post (Why Good Things Happen To Good People)

That's just a sampling of benefits and they're all physical. But they were enough to open my eyes and make my heart receptive to other possibilities.

"I just can't help but share," writes Ann Voscamp, "how life changing this gratitude experiment has been." (One Thousand Gifts p. 133)

Life Changing? That's what I needed. I determined to sweeten my spirit by beginning my own gratitude list. Voscamp began by listing 1000. I'm slightly past 500.

1. Working furnace . . .
30. Health . . .
45. Full Cupboards . . .
63. Faithful Husband . . .
64. Talented and Compassionate Children . . .
72. Wind. I Love the Wind! . . .
84. God's Word and Freedom to Read It . . .
92. Laughter . . .
101. Comfortable bed . . .
189. Cute (I mean Cute!) Grandchildren . . .
203. Friends . . .
225. Coffee Shops . . . and the neat people who work there . . .
300. Nature Trails . . .
350. Hugs . . .
375. Smiles . . .
538. (One of today's) Handwritten letters or notes, delivered by a mail person.

Life Changing?
I picture richer relationships,
deeper intimacy with God,
emotional healing,
melting bitterness and
changed environments at home and at work.
Can you think of other benefits? Have you witnessed some in your own life or in the lives of others?

I began seeing books on gratitude everywhere, and hearing radio programs with similar messages. One morning, I listened to an audio book about living a life of giving thanks. Besides sprinkling words like blessing and grace throughout the text, the author used research and scientific evidence to convince her audience that thanks-giving held great value. About three chapters in, she introduced chanting and meditation.

Like thanksgiving, meditation is a Biblical word and concept. But as this blog positions itself, discernment is needed.

To whom do we give thanks? James 1:17 tells us that every good and perfect gift comes from God.

On what do we meditate? Biblical meditation is not “emptying” our minds -- Biblical meditation is “filling” our minds. Psalms encourages us to meditate on God’s unfailing love, His works, His law, His wonders and on His promises. Now there, my friend, is something to lower your blood pressure, compliment your health and increase your sense of well-being.


Longing for a Sweeter Spirit and More of God,
Lonnie

P.S.
First Thessalonians 5 encourages us to give thanks in all circumstances, because it is God’s will for us. (Hmm. Thanks-giving isn’t always a response to what we already have; apparently it’s also an expression of trust.)

I Can't Do This Alone!

"'I can't do this alone,'" Lori cried out to God. "'It's too hard. If You're really there, then show me, and I will trust You.'

"Lori sensed an answer in the stillness.

"'Trust Me first--then I will show you.'"

(Strong by Jim Daly, p. 30)

This anecdote, even without your knowing Lori's circumstances, can stand all by itself. No Lonnie-comments needed.

I'd love, however, to read of a time when "you" knew you couldn't do it alone. Did you see first, then trust? Or trust and then see?

Immanuel: God With Us,
Lonnie

Holding God's Hand

"One of the joys of being with kids is holding their hands. We do it to keep them safe while crossing the street, or to keep them from getting lost in a crowd. And whenever they stumble and lose their footing, we grab their little hands tighter to keep them from falling.

"That's what God does for us . . . " (Joe Stowell/Our Daily Bread Journal/November 25)

The picture is beautiful . . . but the premise of my blog prompts me to ask, "Is it Scriptural?"

Let's begin with the "qualifier." Are we children? Children of God? We certainly have the opportunity to be so. You'll find an invitation in John 1:12:

"Yet to all who received him, to those who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God."

"Because those who are led by the Spirit of God are sons of God." Romans 8:14

Are you a child of God?

You've been with people who answer a question with another question. Likewise, God's invitation asks us to respond with an invitation. We are to invite Him into our hearts and lives -- in doing so, we invite Him to call the shots. That can be scary, but we will never find a more loving Father, nor one who knows and acts upon what is the very best for us.

So, what about the hand-holding part? Does God keep us from falling? Can He really keep me from being consumed by covetousness, self-pity, or self-righteousness? When He sees me falling, will He grab my hand and hold tighter?

Scripture says, Yes, but . . . I have to let Him.

1 Corinthians 10:13 promises that "God is faithful; he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, he will provide a way out . . . " (a way of escape NAS).

"To him who is able to keep you from falling and to present you before his glorious presence without fault and with great joy. . . " Jude 24

God, when you reach out to hold our hand. When it almost hurts because You are holding so tight, help us trust. Help us cooperate. Help us, Lord, to receive your Father-love.

Friend, if you need to see your Father smile, look up. He is.

Holding His Hand,
Lonnie

* All Scripture references NIV unless noted otherwise

Anchors or Rudders?

“You cannot change the past, but the past can change you; either for better or for worse . . . the past can be a rudder that guides you or an anchor that hinders you.”
Warren Wiersbe

Make a list of events and circumstances throughout your life. Then mark each one with A for anchor or R for rudder. You will see where God has already worked and where work still needs to be done.

My list might include: living on welfare, rejected articles, date rape, death of parents, spiritual abuse, not going to college or being able to send my children to college.

Your list will include different things: maybe child abuse or divorce; maybe alcoholism or a demotion; maybe job loss or foreclosure.

Allow me to highlight one of my experiences that has been both an anchor and a rudder. Welfare checks, low income housing and food stamps trashed my self-esteem, ended some relationships and prevented others. It certainly made self-pity the Lord of my life.

Once out of welfare, fear of that trial being repeated sat like a wrecking ball in my heart. I, at times, feared acknowledging a blessing or provision for fear that the very claiming of it would cause me to lose it.

On the other hand -- I've grown in compassion. I've come to enjoy gentle and intimate walks with God along man-made paths in the midst of God-made beauty. I've learned to "use" coupons, not let them use me to buy what I don't need. I'm relearning generosity, gratitude, and though slowly, I'm learning how to dream . . . to expect that God still has good (maybe even exciting) plans for my life.

Does Warren Wiersbe's quote from Chapter by Chapter (page 258) line up with God's Word? I think so. Joseph is an obvious example.

"And now don't be worried or angry with yourselves for selling me here, because God sent me ahead of you to preserve life . . . to establish you as a remnant within the land and to keep you alive by a great deliverance." (Genesis 45:4-7 CSB)

Sorry for taking the easy one, but can you cite any other examples? If so, please share.

God, the miracle worker and heart changer, can turn any anchor into a rudder.

Being Changed By Him,
Lonnie

One Sentence!

"The thing I loved about Nadine was that I never felt like she was selling anything. She would talk about God as if she knew Him, as if she had talked to Him on the phone that day. She was never ashamed, which is the thing with some Christians I encounted. They felt like they had to sell God, as if He were soap or a vacuum cleaner, and it's like they really weren't listening to me; they didn't care, they just wanted me to buy their product." Donald Miller, Blue Like Jazz p. 52

This week a woman shared, with tears in her eyes, how God used her polio stricken husband. When a man entered their church one Sunday, her husband asked the man if he came because he was curious or because he wanted to learn about Jesus. Fifteen years later, they received a letter. Because of the question the man had been asked on that Sunday, a future day found him accepting Jesus as his Saviour.

One sentence!

On our first visit to a church, the worship leader addressed the congregation as "Beloved." We've attended that church, now, for several months. And several times since, he has again addressed us as "Beloved." Every time, it brings healing to my heart.

One Word!

Imagine what God might be doing with the sincere words you speak!

What, in God's Word, encourages you to share Jesus in your most natural and genuine way? And to trust Him with the results?


Beloved and Growing -- How about you?
Lonnie

Judging The Needy

In Blue Like Jazz, Donald Miller shares an eye-opening moment at a Safeway grocery store. When a lady in front of him pulled out food stamps, he was surprised. They looked more like money than stamps. Donald felt awkward and witnessed a similar awkwardness between the clerk and the woman. He wished he could buy her groceries, but was afraid that would cause even more embarrassment.

"The woman never lifted her head" Miller wrote,"as she organized her bags of groceries and set them in her cart. She walked away from the checkout stand in the sort of stiff movements a person uses when they know they are being watched."

Watched? You better know it. Are they spending "government money" (our tax dollars) appropriately?

I can still see myself standing in line with a cart of groceries, our new baby, and . . . food stamps. I can feel the eyes watching as my roast moved down the belt. "A roast on government money?" I imagined anyone nearby thinking. But that roast was my coping mechanism. I put it in the freezer to eat toward the end of the month when funds ran low. Welfare stinks! The roast gave me something to look forward to.

"I had come to believe that because a person is in need," Miller continued, "they are candidates for sympathy, not just charity. It was not that I wanted to buy her groceries, the government was already doing that. I wanted to buy her dignity. And yet, by judging her, I was the one taking her dignity away." (Blue Like Jazz p. 89-90)


There are people who "use" the system: People who have another baby or get divorced and still live together so the dependent mother can collect a check.

There are some who are homeless because they do drugs. And there are those who do drugs because they are homeless. That's how they cope.

Here's my question? Can we, by any means, give someone dignity? Or take it away? If so, how?

Was Donald "judging" this woman by wanting to buy her groceries? Or was he moved by compassion?

Would love to hear/see your thoughts.

Because . . .

I'm Forever Growing,
Lonnie

Secret Choices

One of my greatest hurts is when I've grown and no one noticed. In fact, when I've been rebuked in the very area I've grown in. I may have stretched mightily to engage in something social. I may have chosen to not be hurt so easily. I may have learned to rejoice with those who rejoice -- when envy or covetousness would have been my previous response. I might have learned to do those ugly tasks (home or work) without grumbling, judging or feeling sorry for myself.

Much of that hard work is done in the closet of our heart. That place where only God sees.

I've been on both sides of this problem. My daughter has made incredible progress in an area of her life and "I" have been the one to rebuke her when she slipped up.

You've been there. I know. It hurts, doesn't it?

Linda Dillow, in Calm My Anxious Heart, writes something she heard God saying to her: "Linda, make secret choices that will honor Me. Though no one sees your choices or knows how difficult they are, make them for Me." (p. 32)

What secret choices have "you" made? Have you been corrected when you felt you should have been complimented? Know this: God Sees.

Others do too. Sometimes, when we get new glasses or change our hair style, others know something is different but just can't put their finger on it. So it is with your growth and mine.

When you experience a victory in one of those tough areas, share with a friend so that you have someone to celebrate with. And keep on making those "secret choices" that "will" honor God.

Growing Along With You,
Lonnie

But . . . We Get There

Having taken a day trip, my husband and I parked on a college campus to sneak a nap before our walk along the river. It was Labor Day and we wondered if every student had been given a pre-assignment to jog. We watched as some ran solo and some in pairs. Groups of eight or more blocked the path as they chattered and ran en masse.

One trio of girls lumbered down the blacktop path, looking as though they’d never run before. They just didn’t look comfortable in their own shoes.

Guys, especially, ran so fluidly that their strenuous exercise seemed effortless.

While some runners lifted their legs high, others sloughed along, their feet barely leaving the pavement.

Each runner possessed his own style, but they all got there. They all left point A and arrived at point B . . . some exhausted and fighting for breath—others barely challenged.

BUT THEY GOT THERE.
As the Body of Christ, we do things differently, too . . . whether it’s the way we share our faith, worship, fast, teach or study our Bible. We serve differently, too—even when the ministry could be called by the same name. Some practice hospitality “in” the church, greeting regulars and welcoming newcomers. Some families take others home for lemonade or lunch. Coffee-lovers may meet body-members at a java-joint, or at a favorite restaurant. And still others invite conversation via a walk or some other activity.

WE ALL DO IT DIFFERENTLY, BUT . . . WE GET THERE.Can we learn from others? Absolutely! Do we need to imitate others to be effective? No.

We’ll be most effective by being ourselves and by growing in the way God created us to be.

Enjoy the Lord. He enjoys you.

Lonnie

Purses and Personalities

“The truth be told,” Patsy Clairmont writes, “ I’ve fallen on stage more than once (the last time it was in front of sixteen thousand people, I might add), and do you know what happened? I got up again.”

And so it is with this blog. Life happens and I lose my discipline, but I’m not giving up.

I’ve heard it said that you can tell a lot about a woman by the contents of her purse. Well, a few people sipping dark roasts or lattes became privy to my personality. For my purse, not my brew, spilt all over the floor. Money didn’t roll. Nor did feminine products spill forth (Age “has” its advantages.) What rolled across the aisle, preventing people from getting to their chosen table, were pens – at least a dozen with various ink colors. My personality was exposed: I write. I must have pens. What if the first three I try don’t work? Besides, I am easily bored; I need variety.

My Bible could have thumped to the floor, but I’d already taken it out and was using it. “Don’t break your arm,” I hear my mother say, “from patting yourself on the back.”

Speaking of mothers, there was a day in high school when Mom told me I needed to be careful what I carried in my purse. “You could be embarrassed,” she warned. Indeed! It sounded like someone had already evaluated the contents for me . . . letters to and from classmates, poems about my latest crush. The true me, exposed in living-blush.

More recently, a backpack served as my purse. I hung it over my shoulder while I checked my baggage at the airport. “Oh, no. My I.D. is in my suitcase.”

“You won’t need it,” the clerk assured me.

Right I didn’t need it. That’s why I was publicly frisked. That’s why they swabbed the inside of my pack and emptied it of everything within.

“You’re going to hate yourself,” the full-figured woman in official uniform told me.

The contents of my bag flashed before my imagination. I don’t do drugs. I don’t pack firearms. What could she possibly have found?

She lifted a small card from an outside pocket – my driver’s license – my needed I.D.!

So what’s in your purse? Backpack? Computer? Glove box? Car trunk? Lunch?

If it spilt out, would you be embarrassed? Would your personality come marching out in blush tones? Or would the contents surprise no one? Would someone lightheartedly say, "That's the person I know. I'd expect nothing different than a collection of coffee shop loyalty cards . . . a New Testament . . . a pack of credit cards . . . a complete make-up kit . . . pictures of her husband and children . . . three kinds of gum and a chocolate bar."

The Bible tells us that our mouth speaks from what our heart is full of. What does it say of purses?

Is The Bible Enough?

I'm reading plenty of books, but the most facinating is The Bible. Lonnie

I asked my husband recently, "Is the Bible enough? Should we need any more than that to understand God's instructions to us?"

For a week (or more) I've been in Titus. Not the whole book, mind you. Only the first five verses. I don't know about you, but I usually slide past introductions to get right into the meat -- the real lesson. Not this time. Circled P's in my Bible and journal indicate prayer. This morning, my circled P was followed by, "I'm curious God. Is there a reason that You have me here?

I tried to gain what I could via cross-references and rereading. When I finally succumbed to commentaries, I asked, "Why didn't I see that?"

"Titus, like Timothy," says HarperCollins Bible Commentary," is described as a 'loyal' child, in deliberate contrast to the rebellious people disrupting the church." I'd read the description of Titus and of the Cretans, but I didn't catch the contrast.

Likewise, the Life Application Bible helped me see why Paul, in the first verses of Titus, tells his readers that God does not lie. A few verses later he writes that Cretans are well-practiced in lying. Again, I missed the contrast, but was grateful that someone brought it to my attention. Paul wanted his audience (then and now) to know that the Word of God is absolute truth, and not to be taken lightly.

So, I have to ask again: Is The Bible Enough?

Several thoughts are flashing through my head. Please add yours to mine.

The Bible. . . plus the Holy Spirit. (He teaches and counsels. John 14:26)
Bible . . . plus the Body of Christ. (He has given us teachers and pastors . . . some write; some speak and many do both. Ephesians 4:11)

" . . . the Bible is meant to be interpreted within the context and accountability of faithful community."
Forgotten God by Francis Chan, p.29


If the Bible is all we have, it will be enough. Having pastors and study helps is a tremendous blessing AND a tremendous responsibility. Men are fallable and opinionated. Sometimes people (even educated ones) are WRONG. We must discern.

A pastor told us once, that anything beyond the text is man's thoughts. Commentary is below the line, and while helpful, it is not inspired.

My thought is that the root word of commentary is "comments."

But . . .

the final Word is this: "All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, so that the man of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work." (2 Timothy 3:16-17)

Ever Growing,
Lonnie

Glory and Compliments to Whom?

"Is it possible for us to do incredible things for the kingdom yet have people give the glory to God rather than to us? Has this ever happened to you? Or do people praise you for your good works?

"When the Holy Spirit truly moves, God is the one praised."

This quote from Francis Chan takes me back to my first years as a Christian, and yet travels across 40 years to today.

In my early twenties, I read, "Let your light so shine before men that they may see your good works and glorify your Father which is in heaven." (Matthew 5:16 KJV) With all the enthusiasm of a new Christian, who wanted everyone to know the Lord, I began to engage in good works. It wasn't until years later that I realized I'd missed half the verse . . . the most important half. Being thoughtful and generous might cause people to think well of me. But without the light, they wouldn't see God. It was unlikely that anyone would come to a saving knowledge of the Lord.

I began to let the presence of Jesus show in my life. I used words like God, prayer, church or blessing. If friends, family, or co-workers saw peace, hope, or generosity in my life, I wanted them to know Who the source was.

I've since become a writer. Editors hold certain requirements for writers who desire to be published. Should I 'desire' to be published, or is that pride? The audience of a magazine is more than I, alone, could encourage to seek God or read their Bible. But . . . do you see the conflict? How do I pursue excellence without slipping into pride? How do I accept the gift without accepting the glory and compliments along with it? How does a pastor, teacher, worship leader, or Christian musician?

My only solution, so far, is to pray for dependence on God.

An editor, who had accepted one of my stories, asked me to consider a list of stories she still needed written. I was so honored! It felt like a confirmation of my calling to write. I was excited -- and scared. What if I disappointed her? What if she sent the dreaded rejection? Would she ever ask again?

I had to put it all in God's hands. I had to trust He would help me write. I had to trust that a rejection from an editor was not a recall of the gift God had given me. Dependence would be a constant reminder of where the glory belonged, but I hated it! I hated reaching that point in my story when I didn't think it was possible for the pieces to come together. I hated rereading and rewriting and thinking it was the dumbest idea, dumbest story ever. I'd tell God, "I can do this with you. I cannot do it without You. Please help me to go forward or help me to lay it down."

I had four stories accepted that year. Sometimes, the editors printed it just as I sent it. Other times, they changed fairly large portions. One time, they totally rejected the story. Their reasons were absolutely right.

In all honesty, I read some of my published articles and stories, only to check my original copy. Sometimes, I can't believe I wrote them. And, while I enjoy the compliments and praise of men, I love that Almighty God has used my hand to reach others.

I continue to pray for myself and other wordsmiths: "God help us pursue excellence without slipping into pride."

What has God called "you" to do? What do you do to make sure you have enough encouragement to go on and yet still allow God to receive all the glory due Him?

Still Growing. How about you?
Lonnie

* Forgotten God
by Francis Chan and Danae Yankowski
David C. Cook, 2009
p.87

Weary Conscience

"A gardener who works in an evangelical conference center tells how, during the first two or three days of a conference, Christians are keen to obey the signs that say, 'Do not drop litter.' They go out of their way to carry unwanted paper to the litter bins. After four or five days have passed, however, he finds that people get tired of looking for the bins and hide their unwanted paper under the bushes. They have enough conscience to hide the paper, but not enough to get rid of it." *

OUCH!

I can't help but think of a night in my retail days. Two clerks to watch three shop-lifters created a challenge. One young girl engaged my co-worker in looking at jewelry pieces in a glass case. Two other preteens took off in different directions. I tailed one, until she turned and asked, "Are you following me?"

"Experience tells me I need to."

"Experience? Who's that?" :-)

The young girl knew she was doing something wrong or she wouldn't have checked behind her to see who was watching. She had apparently been told that stealing was wrong. I wonder how many times.

I wonder how many times we've been told via God's Word, a sermon, a friend, or someone in leadership that we need to take care in what we watch, read, eat, do, or talk about. I Timothy 4:1 speaks of a seared conscience, one that's been rendered ineffective or disabled. If I were to paraphrase, I'd define a seared conscience as one that's been persistent to a point of weariness and finally given up. But who wants to be hassled by persistent conviction?

When I'm angry and enjoying my anger, or when I'm prone to entertain bitterness rather than forgive . . . when returning hurt for hurt seems the "right" way to go, one thing and only one thing edges me toward repentance.

I need God.

His Word says that He doesn't hear our prayers when we regard wickedness in our heart (Psalm 66:18). While the priveledge of prayer is important, missing fellowship with God is painful. I, soon, grow lonely for Him.

For that reason, I'll accept the persistent conscience or, more accurately, the ministry of the Holy Spirit. For He not only convicts, He gives the grace needed to overcome the sin that so easily entangles us (Hebrews 12:1). A good jump-start for a weary conscience is God's Word. Although we need it "before the fact." We need regular time in His Word and instead of hiding sin, we need to hide Bible verses in our heart; ones that address frequent temptations. Another tremendous help is a friend who risks telling us that they recognize pride, self-pity, or covetousness in our life. Is there someone you can invite to do so?

We need to remind ourselves that God's conviction is always wrapped in love. If it feels like worthlessness, hopelessness, or condemnation, that is not God. That's Satan. He is the accuser of the Brethren, of Christians. (Revelations 12:10) Satan's motivation is to kill, steal, and destroy. God's motivation is to restore . . . health to our lives, and intimacy in our relationship with Him.

"The one who conceals his sins will not prosper, but he whoever confesses and renounces them will find mercy." Proverbs 28:13 CSB

The more paper you hide under a bush, the more likely it will become visable to every passer-by. The more sin we hide, well . . . I suspect the same thing happens.

Sometimes Growing . . . Just Isn't Fun!
Lonnie




* Water For The Soul
by Selwyn Huges
Broadman and Holman 1998

Book Fast #3

Good Morning.

This won't be a Polished Post (Hey. There's a future title.) Tell me, what should it be about?

I won't be including any quotes, today, as I'm fasting from books. This is my third week (one day per week), when I've set aside Christian growth books, commentaries, and novels in order to give myself completely to the Bible. I missed my 10-15 minute bed and book time this morning, but I'm excited about what God is doing in my life.

This morning, I eyed the cantaloupe on my kitchen counter, hoping I'd chosen an aromatic, sweet, and juicy (but crisp) fruit. It made me think of my book fast. After a season of eating "stored" apples, or oranges, or shipped from who-knows-where melons, the taste of rippened-on-the vine, in-season fruit is incredible! I'm finding, that after long seasons of reading man's (woman's) interpretation of God's Word, the "real thing" is absolutely refreshing and nourishing. I find myself wanting more. And more. That's a good thing, right?

I read God's Word daily. It just seems that the concerted effort of reading "nothing-but" is awakening my hunger. I feel a communion with God growing and I find myself longing for an even deeper communion.

Well friends, not polished, but hopefully motivating. I've a few minutes before work to hang out with Jeremiah or to return to my devotional Scriptures.

Who have you been hanging out with lately? Paul? Peter? Hosea? Joyce Meyer? Anne Graham Lotz? Jim Cymbala?

I am so thankful for men and women that God has gifted with teaching. I'm grateful that He has allowed me to write. But, I pray today that God causes the Body of Christ to hunger and thirst for His Word.

Ever Growing,
Lonnie

Book Hog Fasts From Books

Challenged by Ruth Graham to compare the time I spent reading God's Word to the time I spent reading books, I took a day to fast from books. That's no small challenge for a book hog. I intentionally chose my day off. Fasting any other day would be like giving up iceberg lettuce for lent . . . not much sacrifice, and offering few benefits.

I hung out with Jeremiah for the day. With 3 translations available, I could read any or all, but no commentaries. In Jeremiah? What was I thinking? What I found profoundly interesting was how many times I ran across verses like, "The Word of the Lord has become a reproach to them -- they have not listened to My Words -- they rejected the Word of the Lord."

I could sigh with relief because "I," indeed was making a concerted effort to be in God's Word . . .

Or . . .

I could receive the conviction due me: Lonnie, it's not just about spending more "time" reading Scripture. Time speaks of priority.

As I ponder my day of fasting and ponder Jeremiah's words, I realize that priority isn't all about clock-time. It isn't about how long I read or how much I read of God's Word. That does little more than give birth to pride and self-righteousness.

Priority also speaks of heart-time. I wondered what that looked like. Asking myself, "Why?" helped me to see. Why should I spend more time in God's Word? The beginning of my list looks like this:

To know God
To understand His expectations and promises
To keep my armor in functioning condition -- to counteract the lies and discouragement that the world hands me every day
For comfort -- to realize that I'm not alone. Paul tells us that any temptation we face is common to man
To see how God deals with sin
To discover how God blesses the obedient
To know what's coming

Spending time in God's Word is a way to commune with Him. It's a place and time to feel His heart; to receive His instruction and encouragement.

Not unlike a retired smoker who misses his cigarette after a meal, I missed "my books" at bedtime. I told myself that I'd done well and that reading a book before going to sleep would be no big deal. Then I caught this verse running through my head: "Could you not keep watch with me for one hour? (Matt. 26:40 NIV)" I know there is no real connection, but it got my attention.

Good grief. I've made it through the day. What's 10 or 20 minutes more? I put my book down and picked up Jeremiah. And . . . the next night, I picked up Jeremiah again. I've, since, found myself reading Jeremiah during some of my breaks. God had whet my appetite and it felt good. He'd raised my curiosity. That felt good, too. He is working. I want to cooperate.

I'm considering a weekly fast, a day to read only God's Word. David tells us in the Psalms that God's Word is a lamp unto his feet and a light unto his path. May it be so for me. May God's Word become such a natural part of my thoughts, that It guides me step by step by step.

What part does God's Word play in your life? What could you add to my list? Have you fasted from books? From T.V.? The internet? Share your experience.

Loving God; Loving His Word,
Lonnie

Too Many Books

Too many booksales. Too may books. And once again, I'm reading too many at one time.

Please, someone, tell me you can relate.

I become aware, with my overindulgence, that I need to discern between what's truth and what's embellishment . . . between what is over-emphasized and what is under-emphasized. I need a greater knowledge of God's Word. I need to cherish His Word above those of man. For that reason, I often think I'll fast from books . . . from man's thoughts, in order to read more of the Bible . . . God's thoughts.

But . . .

I stumble the very first morning. I lay my Bible on the table, and right next to it, my devotion book. "Does that count?" I ask myself. Then I give up.

I guess my heart and mind need primed like an old-time water pump. The pumps needed a taste of water in order to give more water. My devotion books work that way. They, and their prescribed Scriptures, give me direction and sort of tune me in to God.

So while I'm entertaining these notions of a book fast, I read this: (in a book, of course) "Compare the amount of time you invest in reading books with the time you spend reading God's Word." *

I love studying the Bible, but compared to books, do I give it equal time? Not even close! So, I began to pray about how to actually fulfill my resolution of a book fast.

"How about one day at a time? Or two?"

Maybe that "is" the problem. I always determine to fast from books for a week, or a month. Frankly, that overwhelms.

I love to learn.

I can't sleep without reading.

I can't drink coffee without reading.

I can't eat without reading.

And yes, I keep reading material in the bathroom.

But, "a" day, with only the Bible? I could do that. And, I won't slap my hand for pulling out a devotion book; but that's the only allowance I'll give myself.

How about you? Will you accept the challenge with me? If so, let me know how it goes? What was hard? What was good?

Within the next week, I'm going to try "a" day. I'm excited to see what God has to teach me.

Ever Reading,
Lonnie

* Fear Not Tomorrow, God Is Already There by Ruth Graham, p. 26

Fully Present

"How true it is that unless we are involved with Jesus Christ in a loving and adoring relationship, we have nothing of eternal value to offer to a needy world . . . our worship of God must take priority over our work for God . . . In the atmosphere of worship we see more clearly what we should do and our work becomes a daily joy instead of a daily grind." (Light For The Path by Selwyn Hughes p. 359)

Hughes' devotion and Luke 10:42 took me back to the Mary-Martha challenge. Who am I?

In my journal, I claimed to have more Mary tendencies, more of a tendency to sit at Jesus feet. "Right! And the whole time you are sitting there, you are worrying about whether you're displeasing God and/or people by not "doing."

"Excuse me. Who's there? Who's speaking? God is that You?"

The picture is absolutely accurate. I love my morning quiet times, my times in the Scripture and learning from God. I enjoy times spent studying for and writing articles. But I also worry (lots) about what people think. My dad equated sitting with laziness. And understandably so; he grew up on a farm.

So, the Scriptures and I talked back and forth for a while.

"God, what are you trying to teach me?

"I know that I can't leave all the work to others.

"However, Scripture doesn't say that Mary never helped out. Martha doesn't even say that."

A couple of things come to mind: an anecdote where a young boy says, "I may be sitting down on the outside, but I'm standing up on the inside!" Trying to be Mary and Martha at the same time doesn't work.

And then there's the man James talks about who is double-minded and unstable in all his ways. Ouch! Don't much care for that. But doesn't that, too, describe me?

My pastor teaches us that, when with people, we need to be fully present. We need to listen, to give that person our attention, rather than thinking about what we want to say or thinking about the next task on our list. Perhaps, that's what God is asking of me. "When you're with Me, I'd like you to be fully present."

I believe Mary was fully present. And that, Jesus said, He would not take away from her.

I'm excited with Hughes' thoughts: that in my worship I will discover what God would have me to do and I will receive joy (the right heart) to do it.

I've much more to learn, and I'm excited to see where God will take me with this. Please, share your thoughts. When you're with God, are you fully present? Isn't it cool that when God's with us -- no matter when, no matter where -- HE IS FULLY PRESENT.

EverGrowing,
Lonnie

My Books Are Noisy

"in this modern age people seem to find it difficult to sit quietly for long. They must have a radio blaring or something else to drown the silence."

"The quiet time," writes Selwyn Hughes, "is where the soul grows receptive."

I want to be receptive -- to God's directions, His conviction, His comfort, His companionship. So, I determined to plan at least 10 minutes of quiet time into my days. Mind you, I consider it a fast when I leave the radio off driving five miles to and from work.

My First Attempt Failed! A coffee shop with dark roast and a fire. Hmmm. I could just sit, entertain silence, listen for God, and enjoy. Right? I lasted One Minute! That's when I found out that my books are noisy. They interrupt my silence.

I am a self-proclaimed Book Hog. If I must sit, and I can't have t.v. or music, then I MUST have a book, magazine -- something! When my husband and I eat out (McD's or Applebees; it doesn't matter) I take a book along. No, I'm not so rude as to read during our "date." But . . . if he goes to the bathroom, I pull out my reading material. And, oh, when I walk nature paths, I take a book or Bible and a pencil and notecards. You never know; bird song, waves lapping against the shore, and immeasurable beauty might not hold my attention for an hour. Good grief! Apparently silence and I have a couple issues.

"Our lives," writes Anne Graham Lotz, "can be like that radio dial. We can be so jammed with signals coming from every direction that even when we tune in to the voice of God, He can be drowned out by other voices crowding in. If we are to hear Him clearly and loudly, there must be times of quietness built into our daily lives."

God created me with an insatiable desire to learn and with a love of discovery. He understands. But . . . the story is yours from here. What do you think? Are "quiet" times important? Are "your" books noisy? How are "you" at sitting still?

I suspect I'm missing some peace, joy and incredible blessings by not taking a few minutes each day to just "hang out with God." What do you think? Any suggestions for pulling it off?

About to try 5 minutes,
Lonnie

A Christian? When?

"Those who have studied the manner in which people become Christians tell us there are two main ways of coming to faith in Christ. One is through a dramatic conversion, whereby a person confronted with the claims of Christ yields to Him in a single moment. The other is when a person moves more slowly into faith, and sometimes cannot pinpoint the exact moment when he or she made the great surrender. What must be remembered is that both experiences are valid. The best evidence that we are alive is not our birth certificate but the fact we are going about our daily lives as living, breathing people."
Selwyn Hughes goes on to explain that he doesn't worry about whether people have a "date" of conversion as long as he sees evidence of them desiring to pray, desiring to be in God's Word, and eager to fellowship with other Christians.

I remember Olga. She lived downstairs from us in our early married life. She was of one of those denominations. They didn't believe in a time, a particular prayer, or that word "saved." But, she told of when her husband died -- when she had learned to depend on Jesus Christ. She didn't say, "I gave my life to Christ," but we knew she had.

I'd love to hear of how you came to faith. Was it in a moment? Or over the years? I'd enjoy hearing what you think of the above quote. Does it confirm your thinking? Change it?

So grateful that God knows our hearts,
Lonnie

Light For The Path
Selwyn Hughes
Broadman and Holman 1999

Victim Turned Victor

I found myself checking through my closet to find an outfit for my latest pity party. Having attended many such parties before, I had several outfits to choose from. "Lonnie," God said, "You don't need pity. You need compassion and my compassions are new every morning." I exchanged my victim uniform for one of a victor.(see Lamentations 3:22-23)

This lesson is huge!

I'd been intentionally wielding the Sword of the Spirit against Satan and the battles he was throwing my way. When I was making little headway, God reminded me that I needed the "full" armor of God. I'd forgotten to take up the shield of faith. (Ephesians 6:16) God, I don't have faith. I can't stir it up. I can't produce it on demand. He reminded me to fix my eyes on Jesus, "the author and perfecter of our faith." (Hebrews 12:2) He reminded me also that "faith comes from hearing the message, and the message is heard through the word of Christ." (Romans 10:17)

This post is full of Scripture, but how immensely blessed I am to have it at my disposal. Christians all over the world are without the written Word of God. Please read His Word and read it often. Here's why: "the Counselor, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name will teach you all things and will remind you of everything I have said to you." (John 14:26 NIV) He can't "remind" you of something you've never read or heard. Don't put super-sized goals out there -- an hour or two daily. Start with 15 minutes. Soon enough, you'll find that time stretching because you'll enjoy the feeling of a full and satisfied spirit.

Have you learned any HUGE lessons lately? If so, did God's Word play a part of that lesson?

Great is His Faithfulness!
Lonnie

Ugly Way Home

"Life's too short to take the ugly way home."
I am loving that quote this week.

What does it mean to you?

Loving Words As Usual,
Lonnie


"Health Care You Can Live With"
by Dr. Scott Morris
p.62-71
So far an excellent read, and pleasantly different than I expected.

Hororscopes?

"We're going to start our meeting with some fun! We're going to look at our zodiac signs!"

Whoa God! Where do I go with "that?"

The meeting included about 10 people seated in a circle. Besides under the table, there was no place to hide.

This was prefaced with, "We don't believe in this; it's just for fun." Those are the very words I excused myself with in my B.C. days. And yet -- I let my horoscope (or Quija board, or tea leaves) affect my mood. Horoscopes raised or lowered my hope quotient. So what was it I didn't believe?

I learned early on, in my Christian walk, that these things (see Deuteronomy 18:14) displeased God. Honestly, future telling and personality casting were hard to give up. I wanted to know that I was of value and I wanted to know that my future held marriage and other good things.

But my value is in this:

Jesus died for me.

I am fearfully and wonderfully made.

I am God's workmanship . . . created for good works that He's planned, in advance, for me to do. (I have purpose.)

Jeremiah 29:11 tells me that God knows the plans He has for me -- that I might have a future and a hope.

God, sometimes, I look at my life and think that I have barely left the starting block in my Christian race. But here is one area where You have moved mightily. Thank you.

When my turn came, to share what my zodiac sign was, I said, "I pass." No drama, no sermon, but I believe it is what I was to do -- remain faithful to God's Word.

Share a similar work experience or share something that God has brought you out of.

Growing in faithfulness,
Growing in courage,
Because He enables me to do so,
Lonnie

See: Romans 5:8
Psalm 139: 13-18
Ephesians 2:10
Jeremiah 29: 11

Temptation

It seems to me, that every temptation is an "opportunity" to be faithful to God.

Do you agree?

Thanking God that "we do not have a high priest who is unable to sympathize with our weaknesses, but we have One who has been tempted in every way, just as we are--yet without sin." (Hebrews 4:15 NIV)

Lonnie

Leader, Leader, Why Can't I Follow?

Cheri showed me, too many times, how to reconcile the cash register at the end of the day. I didn’t get it! Was I just dumb? I was relieved to discover that intelligence wasn’t the issue. Style was.

I needed a different teacher – one with a slightly different approach to the same task; one with a more phlegmatic personality. Was Cheri wrong? No. The way she showed me just didn’t click. Craig showed me once and it all made sense. My confidence and skills grew quickly. In hindsight, I suspect Cheri was a visual learner. And I’ve since learned that I’m a hands-on person. Telling me or showing me steals every ounce of confidence I possess. I just don’t get it. Craig’s leadership style, neither right nor wrong, better suited my personality.

I’ve been reconciling cash registers, now, for 30 years. It’s a job I particularly enjoy. One that gives me great satisfaction when it comes out to the penny.

Boss Andrea was tremendously fun to work with, yet her expectations overwhelmed me and made me feel unappreciated. Not because I couldn’t complete the tasks; I just couldn’t complete them all at once. Before I’d barely started one assignment, she gave me two more.

Boss Kimberly, seeing a backlog of work, told me to do the best I could but not to worry about what I didn’t get done. Who did I work harder for? Kimberly. I hoped to surprise her, to give her a day less buried with work than she expected. My team members expressed their increased motivation to please her. They, too, felt appreciated.

That being said, there are people who would take advantage of no clear set goals. They’d give themselves permission to surf the web, manicure their nails, or whatever.

What type of leader do you need? Who are you most likely to follow? Is it your responsibility to “Follow the Leader,” no matter what her style tendencies are? Or is it your leader’s responsibility to determine what motivates you and lead accordingly?

Who are your leaders? Parents—Teachers—Spouses—Pastors—Bosses—Committee Leaders?

Please share your thoughts and experiences.

As Always – Growing,
Lonnie

Fiction Is Not Always Frivolous

I was teased, growing up, because every book I read had a nurse in it. As I think back, I'm guessing those books were Harlequin romances. That tease may have seemed unkind, but it changed my life. I began trying to read more meaningful books. It wasn't an easy transition, as I'm not the intellectual type. But I did find great joy in biographies and later in antique history books.

Dad, too, talked about how ridiculous novels were because they weren't true. In his last years, he discovered historical fiction and enjoyed it tremendously.

For the most part, I'm still stuck in non-fiction because it's what I "choose" not because I worry about what anyone thinks. However, I occasionally find myself in need of a story -- one that pulls me along to the last page. Plus, I've discovered that fiction is not so frivolous; it has much to teach and often, it's a great way to share the Lord and current issues.

Here's a clip from a recent novel. I'd love your thoughts as the issue is something that's been on my back burner for a couple years. When I vote, similar thoughts play tag in my mind.

(Takes place during fights for Prohibition and Women's Right to Vote) Grandma Bebe fought for Prohibition. The following is a discussion with her grand-daughter, Harriet. (Though Waters Roar by Lynn Austin/Bethany House Publishers 2009, p. 424-5)

"You're right, I have worked hard to make certain that alcohol was banned. I've devoted my entire life to temperance because I saw how much pain and suffering alcohol caused. But you know what? Every day now I read in the paper about the crime spree that Prohibition caused, and I wonder if I've been fighting the wrong battle all these years."

"What do you mean?"

"Jesus' harshest words were for the moral guardians of His day--the Pharisees. They wanted to dictate morality, too, but Jesus called them hypocrites whitewashed tombs. It isn't our calling as Christians to write laws that force people to live moral lives . . . that's our calling--to bring people to Christ--not to force them to behave the way we want them to or to solve all their external problems."

What do you think? Do we need to campaign? Or pray? Or both? Has God given individuals different calls to cover both sides of the coin? What does God's Word say?

Anxious to Hear Your Thoughts,
Lonnie

Check out lynnaustin.org for more about this cool author and upcoming books.

Profanity

Please allow me a 15 second vent, then share your thoughts with me.

What in the world is professional about four-letter words? Three sentences into a book (on happiness mind you) I ran across the f-word.

Sometime back, I picked up a book by a 4-star General that I'd admired. One of his chapter titles included profanity. Good thing we don't pay for library books, or I'd be venting even more.

A volunteer at my library requested a book that we both thought would be fun. She said the story was cute but she returned the book. Too many untasty words. Why?

Used like "and" the f-word seems to have become a conjunction, required to maintain some sort of ugly unity in a book.

What is it that makes authors think they can dazzle readers with offensive language? Or have we grown so dull that it doesn't offend anymore?

A Little Crabby Today,
Lonnie

Celebrate the Temporary

A friend, years ago, shared her copy of a book titled, "Celebrate the Temporary." I don't recall it's focus, but today I'm re-enjoying the title.

I've titled my blog Worthy Words, not because I have a closet full of wisdom, myself; but because I love to learn and love to share the encouragement and lessons I gain from "other people's" words. And because I want "us" to be ever conscious of whether a writer's or speaker's words line up with God's Word.

I'm reading Anne Graham Lotz's book, "The Vision of His Glory." What a courageous woman to take on the book of Revelations! This morning I'm reading her thoughts on the church of Smyrna. She takes on a passage that has puzzled me: "You will suffer persecution for ten days?" Boy, would I like to change the word persecution to trial and then hold God to a promise I've rewritten to suit my needs. Anne admits that she isn't sure of the exact meaning, but suggests that the principle of Rev. 2:10b is "that suffering is temporary. It only lasts ten days; there is an end or limit to it. . . . It will end! If not today, then tomorrow. If not tomorrow, next week. If not next week, next month. If not next month, next year. If it lasts your entire lifetime, it is still temporary compared to eternity.

"If we could mark out our lives on a time line that included all eternity, the line itself would be miles long, with our lives lived on earth just a dot on the line. And the suffering we experience during our lives on earth would be such a small mark it would be undetectable." (The Vision of His Glory/W Publishing Group 1996-page 83)

Tough times are the time to Celebrate the Temporary. However huge the emotional drain, however severe the pain or financial struggle; however difficult the relationship, the suffering is temporary. It "feels" like eternity -- but only because we cannot fathom how long eternity is.

Friend, I pray that you feel God's hug today. I pray that He puts a Scripture in your path, or recalls one to your mind that brings you comfort, hope, and a reason to keep on going. I pray that even though your trial feels like it will never end that somehow God will help you grasp that it is, indeed, temporary.

You Are In My Prayers Today,
Lonnie

When Life Hurts

Thirty-five relatives and villagers grabbed Hezekiah by the hair. They punched him until he became unconscious. Hezekiah, has since endured more beatings because of his conversion to Christianity.

"As I have matured in my walk with Christ," Hezekiah says, "I have more faith to endure these hardships. The trials I have gone through have served to strengthen my faith, and I see God's faithfulness in delivering me. I thank God I have been able to bring thirty people to the saving knowledge of Jesus." (Extreme Devotion from the coauthors of Jesus Freaks/Wpublishing Group 2001)

I think God is trying to teach me similar lessons. Through trials, God has built, within me, perseverance and even hope. It will probably take several blog posts to share stages of these lessons.

I confess. I came to Christ because every book I read led me to believe that He would take all my problems away. I stubbornly held on to that belief for decades! I wanted to believe what I wanted to believe. Consequently, when life handed me pain and challenges, I doubted God. I concluded that He had "favorites" and "I" wasn't one of them. At first, I questioned what I was/or wasn't doing to qualify me for such a position. Then as I made my own list of what I thought God wanted from His favorites, I determined that I'd never make it.

This week, I've spent time in Hebrews 11. These men and women believed in God's goodness even when their eyes told them something completely different. I believe God is teaching me that my eyes can't be trusted. He can! He is always faithful. He can be nothing less. With that, I close with a quote from the devotion mentioned above.

"God's loyalty to his children in not based on reciprocity. If it were, we would all have been abandoned long ago."

How do you see the struggles in your life? How does it affect your faith?

Still Growing,
Lonnie

Oops!

Have you ever gotten ready to tongue-lash someone when you tripped over their shoes -- then discovered they were "yours?" Oops!

We always want to blame someone else, especially when it hurts.

Caught Again!

Me,impulsive? And in need of an attitude adjustment?

Oops! Caught Again!

How could I turn down, "Buy one book and get the second one half off?" Both books were about gratitude and I needed a booster shot, or at least a fresh conviction. But I reached home and knew I'd been impulsive. I requested both books from the library and returned my purchases.

My requests arrived this week. Just reading them has made me grateful -- grateful that I didn't buy them.

How did I miss one author calling her husband a disgusting name -- in the very first chapter? Bad words and attitudes stick to me like sand-burrs to socks. I returned the book and began to read the second one. At a glance, several pages were sprinkled with the word blessing. "Neat," I thought, "a Christian perspective."

HEAR ME. I DON'T BELIEVE CHRISTIANS HAVE CORNERED THE MARKET ON GOOD AND WISE. That, in fact, is one reason for this blog post.

The second book on gratitude did, indeed, use the word blessing frequently -- along with chanting and Eastern meditation. The compilation consists of people sharing how an attitude of gratitude has given them energy to get through severe illnesses, addictions, and some really tough stuff. I may continue to read, but selectively. I can skip chapters that don't line up with God's Word. But I have 2 concerns:

1. What about people who don't skip and get sucked into false teaching? Just because someone says something incredibly wise, we can't assume everything he says is as wise. If someone tells us to be at peace with all men, good. God's Word says that as much as possible be at peace with all men. If the same author (friend, pastor, TV personality) tells you there are many gods and many ways to heaven, be aware: Our Creator God says differently. **

2. My second concern -- Christians. How are we doing? Yes, I thank God before most meals. And I thank Him for a warm house and a reliable car. But can I really say I have an "attitude" of thanksgiving? If someone planted a bug in my home, workplace, (get ready for an Ouch!) or my favorite places of prayer, what would they hear? Would gratitude be tackling complaints, or the other way around?

I stand convicted! Mom used to say, "If the shoe fits, wear it." How's your shoe fitting?

If you read this blog regularly, or occasionally, please use the comment field every now and then to ask me, "Lonnie, how's your attitude of gratitude?"

Ever Growing,
Lonnie

** "And it shall be, that everyone who calls on the name of the Lord shall be saved." Acts 2:21

** "And there is salvation in no one else; for there is no other name under heaven that has been given among men, by which we must be saved." Acts 4:12

Caught!

"Is it true that faith is invisible without works (James 2:17)?"

Yes, and what a great way to put it. The question in my Bible study book gave me words that would stick in my head and help me apply the principle of faith proved by works/good deeds.

Caught!

The right answer to that question is, "No, that is not true." James 2 tells us that the absence of works doesn't make faith invisible. James says, " . . .faith, if it has no works, is DEAD!" It's of no value; no effect. If we are saved by faith, (see Ephesians 2:8-9) but our faith is dead, we have cause for concern. I suspect the author knew exactly what he was asking. And, no doubt, he expected to catch a few readers off guard--like me. Though he came through the back door, the author delivered his message with a punch; one that will hang around my heart for a long time.

As a writer, I love words! I enjoy the ways authors arrange them on a page. I love learning and sharing what I learn in my own words. But, the example above shows the need for discernment and great care.

When you listen to a sermon, read a book, or read my blog, follow the example of the Bereans: " . . . for they received the word with great eagerness, examining the Scriptures daily to see whether these things (that Paul taught) were so (Acts 17: 10-11)."

What do you do when something sounds off-center? Do you brush it off as unimportant? Do you ask a pastor or friend? Do you get out your Bible? If you get out your Bible, share the steps you use to finding answers.

Still Growing--Hope you are, too.
Lonnie

Pursing Excellence

A reminder that I'm working on consistency, these days, rather than perfection. So, this will likely be short, which I hope to strive for in future posts.

As I drove to Caribou, this morning,for my dollar coffee, I listened to a Christian radio station. I wanted to hear the message on marriage, but knew I'd be working on my blog. Prayer was more important. I turned the radio off. My prayer went something like this:

God, I don't want my blog to be an exercise, something on my "to do" list. Let the words I write be meaningful to my readers--albeit, God, I've not even let my blog be known to more than Ray. So help me to take that step.

My biggest concern, whether here or for publication, is that I handle Your Word accurately. Help me, and all Your wordsmiths (preachers, missionaries, homeschoolers, worship leaders, writers, teachers, etc.) determine the truth of what we read or what we write by comparing it to Your Word. And God, here's a real quandry. If pride preceeds a fall, at what point does pursuing excellence become pride? Amen.

Maybe "you" can be part of God's answer. For me, as a writer, I must meet an editor's standards in order for an article to be accepted for publication. I "must" pursue excellence or lose my opportunity to minister. A worship leader wants to draw people into God's presence; he/she doesn't want them distracted by mediocrity, nor by too much flare. So, what do you think? Any suggestions? Scriptures?

Ever Growing,
Lonnie

Good News Bad News

Our dining room includes a cabinet where we "used" to keep cereal. Now it houses my Bible(s), dictionaries, and commentaries. Though I struggle most mornings to get up before anyone else to have a quiet time, I love Bible study! However . . . Good news, bad news.

Good News: God likes that I enjoy Bible Study
Bad News: He'd like me to do what His Word says.

I understand why. You do too. But sometimes a simple analogy (and a touch of humor) works as a great memory prompt. Here are a couple that struck me, this week, as I read James.
* I've read 4 diet books and haven't lost a pound!
* (Teen) "Why do I have to take a written test AND a driver's test?
* Beauticians, doctors, nurses, and blood drawing lab technicians are all required to take written tests AND hands-on tests. Aren't you glad?

"So my people come to you in crowds, sit in front of you, and hear your words, but they don't obey them. Although they express love with their mouths, their hearts pursue unjust gain. Indeed, to them you are nothing more than one who sings love songs with a beautiful voice and plays an instrument well, for they hear your words but do not put them into practice." Ezekiel 33:31-32

"But be doers of the word and not hearers only . . ." James 1:22

What is harder for you? To "do" what God's Word says to do? (ex: love your enemy) Or to not do what God's Word says not to do? (ex: do not steal, lie, covet etc)

As a friend reminded me this morning, we cannot be doers of God's Word in our own strength, or by our own will power. "Help" is one prayer God always answers.

Enjoy the Lord today. He enjoys YOU.
Lonnie

Lost Hope

When I and my husband were bulldozed by some physical and financial challenges, I lost hope. I didn't know how we'd get through the next month, let alone the rest of our lives.

I searched for books about people who had survived worse situations. Could anyone have suffered more than those who endured the Holocaust? The books I read helped me to see that my problems were minor in comparison; yet, I didn't find testimonies of how faith had carried anyone through. I did come to the conclusion that no matter how difficult circumstances were, they were temporary. Mind you, I did not equate short-lived with temporary. Poverty, or worse, could last for years! I reminded myself that, how ever long our trials lasted, they would be short compared to eternity. And I'd spend eternity in heaven.

This last week found me sick with no energy, yet with time to read. I read my first novel in a decade. I enjoyed it way too much: no sticky tabs to mark facts and anecdotes and no notes to write.

Funny, this library book that, I had figured I would do little more than scan, took place during World War II and the Holocaust. It was the book I'd looked for so long ago.

Jacob and his wife, faithful Jews, moved to America to escape persecution. It didn't work. Jews were hated in the U.S. too. Their son, Avraham, did not immigrate with them. The radio and newspapers told of the horrible genocide going on, so when communication ended between Jacob and Avrahm, Jacob worried. Were his son and family still alive?

Then Jacob's wife was hit and killed by a car. Jacob lost hope. He no longer believed in Hashem. What God would allow such tragedy and suffering?

Later, Jacob shared the story of Esther with two young neighbors whose mother had died in the same accident as his wife. His faith began to return. He told the children that though God wasn't mentioned in the book of Esther, He was obviously at work. From then on Jacob comforted himself and others with this truth: "We may not see God, but He is working for our good." Jacob, who had felt his prayers were being ignored, realized that they were incredibly answered but different than he'd expected.

Though Jacob received no letters, his son had been writing them and leaving them with trusted people. Avraham reasoned that when the war was over, at least Jacob would know what had happened. In one letter Avraham wrote, "I have asked the rabbi why our people are experiencing this great suffering. Was it from some great sin we have committed? What have we done to bring this upon ourselves? He believes that it is not because of sin that we are persecuted but because of the Torah. The Hamans of this world want to wipe out all memory of our people and of our covenant with Hashem, as well as all memory of His Law so that evil can flourish unfetterered." (While We're Far Apart by Lynn Austin p. 144)

What do you think? Does Scripture support the rabbi's beliefs? Have you, looking in life's rearview mirror, discovered that God, though invisible, has indeed been involved and answering prayers? If so, please share.