Today is Saturday. In our house it means: no appointments, sleep in (if you can), no special time for meals, interruptions are O K,( but do not mess around with the same old doggie walks for Max, or he gets frustrated.)
This morning, early (far too early!) Max woke me up ready to go right now! " No, Max. First, I get up and have a little talk with my Lord Jesus." I swear he seemed to pout! but he hunkered down on the couch. (Yes, he gets to sit there or lay there, or anything he wants to there! And yes, he was pouting! There is no doubt in my mind!)
I picked up my very special little book by Sarah Young, JESUS CALLING. I was reluctant at one time to have another devotional book (I already had quite a few and was no longer reading them except for one nightly called MY UTMOST FOR HIS HIGHEST by Oswald Chambers which we have read aloud each night of our marriage of 60 years.) But back to JESUS CALLING....I believe He really does call a person through this book. It resonates truth to me, at least!
With a pouting dog next to me I read this: "There is no place so desolate that you cannot find Me there. No set of circumstances could ever isolate you from My loving Presence. Not only do I see you always; I see you as a redeemed saint, gloriously radiant in My righteousness. That is why I take great delight in you and rejoice over you with singing!"
Now you may wonder how I could think of Max, the dog, after reading this short reminder of God's love for me. Well, I often think of Max as a human and when I do, I expect him to act like a human, in fact, a good human. He just can't make it. He just isn't now nor will he ever be a human. This is not totally unlike me and God, with a huge difference. God does not expect me to act like a saint! He knows my imperfections, and although he tries to help me correct them, he gives me quite a lot of slack by loving me in-spite-of.
And then I realized, I love Maxie just the way he is and in-spite-of what he is. And he's a dog. He's a good dog. And if he learned to pout, he might have learned it from some human he hangs around with. Hmmnn.
So, Lord, I thank you once again for Max, for all the critters we humans love. And thanks, too, for letting me see myself and YOU in the morning wake-up we each enjoyed, for I know you enjoyed it, too, didn't you? I sensed your delight in me...and in Max!
Holy Spirit shine your light on me and on those who read about this blessing I received from you today.
May you, my friend, see the light that is always with you.
Your blogging friend, Jo in MN
Saturday, August 30, 2014
Friday, August 29, 2014
EZEKIEL, ANOTHER MAN, ANOTHER PROPHET
There was another prophet, another voice and watchman for God, named Ezekiel. Like Jeremiah, Ezekiel also was a man who chose to obey God. A Jewish "street preacher, Ezekiel told everyone about God's judgment and salvation, and called them to repent and obey." (all passages in quotations from the Study pages on Ezekiel. NIV Bible.)
Ezekiel was told by God to illustrate God's messages by his own actions, and "some of these acts were 1) lying on his side for 390 days and eating little, 2) shaving his head and beard (unknown for Jewish men in that day) and 3) showing no sorrow at the death of his wife." All of these acts illustrated to the Jewish nation God's condemnation of His people. Yet, the people thought Ezekiel was crazy and they ignored him.
God asked a lot of His prophets. God may ask a lot of you--or me! Would we do whatever He asked of us? I wonder! What God really asks of us is to love Him, honor Him, and obey Him. And obeying Him may be the hardest of all.
Years ago, I took a Bible quiz to try and determine what my spiritual gift is. I wasn't so certain how accurate it was, yet, here I am, years later, speaking out for the Lord. Not exactly a prophet like the Old Testament Jeremiah and Ezekiel, of course, but using my words to edify my Lord and Savior Jesus Christ! You are now reading my own personal account of Christ's love for the world and it's pouring out of my heart!
How could I not speak out for the One who touched my heart with His deep love, convincing me I was one of the persons whom He came to save? The Cross reminds me over and over that He died for me. My sinful nature (I've known about it since I was a child) has been paid for by the Man from Galilee! And all I need to do is remember to love Him, trust in Him, and obey Him through the Spirit of God He has placed within me!
Holy Spirit, Love Divine, thank you! Be with my friend who is reading this.
Jo in MN
Ezekiel was told by God to illustrate God's messages by his own actions, and "some of these acts were 1) lying on his side for 390 days and eating little, 2) shaving his head and beard (unknown for Jewish men in that day) and 3) showing no sorrow at the death of his wife." All of these acts illustrated to the Jewish nation God's condemnation of His people. Yet, the people thought Ezekiel was crazy and they ignored him.
God asked a lot of His prophets. God may ask a lot of you--or me! Would we do whatever He asked of us? I wonder! What God really asks of us is to love Him, honor Him, and obey Him. And obeying Him may be the hardest of all.
Years ago, I took a Bible quiz to try and determine what my spiritual gift is. I wasn't so certain how accurate it was, yet, here I am, years later, speaking out for the Lord. Not exactly a prophet like the Old Testament Jeremiah and Ezekiel, of course, but using my words to edify my Lord and Savior Jesus Christ! You are now reading my own personal account of Christ's love for the world and it's pouring out of my heart!
How could I not speak out for the One who touched my heart with His deep love, convincing me I was one of the persons whom He came to save? The Cross reminds me over and over that He died for me. My sinful nature (I've known about it since I was a child) has been paid for by the Man from Galilee! And all I need to do is remember to love Him, trust in Him, and obey Him through the Spirit of God He has placed within me!
Holy Spirit, Love Divine, thank you! Be with my friend who is reading this.
Jo in MN
Wednesday, August 27, 2014
JEREMIAH? NOT A BULLFROG!
God needed someone to speak for Him. The world was buckling under because the people had forgotten their promise to God. They had forgotten or didn't care that God had said,. "There must be no other gods before you! Do not worship anyone or anything but Me!" And along came Jeremiah! He was to be the prophet of God during that period of time.
Jeremiah was a good prophet and a good man. In Jeremiah 1:16 God said to him, "I will pronounce my judgment on my people because of their wickedness in forsaking me, in burning incense to other gods, and in worshiping what their hands have made."
The study section of the Bible re. Jeremiah says this: "No group of people liked Jeremiah or listened to him. Yet we can see he successfully completed the work God gave him to do. Success can never be measured by popularity, fame or fortune, for these are momentary measures. God measures our success with the yardsticks of obedience, faithfulness, and righteousness. If we are faithfully doing the work God gives us, we are successful in His eyes."
Jeremiah is a great example of doing what is needed in spite of personal obstacles.
When I was a young mom, I had two daughters within a year's time. As they were growing up, I tried to encourage them to do kind things for one another and for others. But summers grew long as most mothers can tell you, and the girls would come to me and say, "Mom, we can't think of anything to do!"
Our neighbor across the street was dying of multiple sclerosis and sometimes her days grew long, as well. So, I would say, "Why don't you bake a cake for Mrs. Likken?" They might grimace a bit and add, "But we did that not too long ago?" And I'd answer, "Well, I'll bet she liked it so much that she would like another one! "And off they would go to the kitchen.
There is never a time that God can't fill up an empty space in the brain for an idea to be of help to someone. Everyone I know needs someone other than themselves at sometime in their lives! And how else is the world to know that God is alive and well....and in your heart!
Jeremiah had a heart for God. The Study tells us, he had no money. He had no family. He had no friends. He only had the love of the Lord God. And so he obeyed. As we look at the record of what Jeremiah did in his lifetime: he faithfully confronted the leaders and the people of their sin and prophesied both their 70 year captivity in Babylon and their eventual return from exile. He was forcefully taken to Egypt, yet he remained faithful in spite of Jerusalem's destruction. After years of obedience, he became strong and courageous.
To repeat what the Study in my Bible says, "God measures our {yours and mine) success with the yardsticks of obedience, faithfulness, and righteousness. If we are faithfully doing the work God gives us, we are successful in His eyes."
God's eyes are upon us...you and me!
May we be obedient, faithful and righteous,
Jo in MN
Jeremiah was a good prophet and a good man. In Jeremiah 1:16 God said to him, "I will pronounce my judgment on my people because of their wickedness in forsaking me, in burning incense to other gods, and in worshiping what their hands have made."
The study section of the Bible re. Jeremiah says this: "No group of people liked Jeremiah or listened to him. Yet we can see he successfully completed the work God gave him to do. Success can never be measured by popularity, fame or fortune, for these are momentary measures. God measures our success with the yardsticks of obedience, faithfulness, and righteousness. If we are faithfully doing the work God gives us, we are successful in His eyes."
Jeremiah is a great example of doing what is needed in spite of personal obstacles.
When I was a young mom, I had two daughters within a year's time. As they were growing up, I tried to encourage them to do kind things for one another and for others. But summers grew long as most mothers can tell you, and the girls would come to me and say, "Mom, we can't think of anything to do!"
Our neighbor across the street was dying of multiple sclerosis and sometimes her days grew long, as well. So, I would say, "Why don't you bake a cake for Mrs. Likken?" They might grimace a bit and add, "But we did that not too long ago?" And I'd answer, "Well, I'll bet she liked it so much that she would like another one! "And off they would go to the kitchen.
There is never a time that God can't fill up an empty space in the brain for an idea to be of help to someone. Everyone I know needs someone other than themselves at sometime in their lives! And how else is the world to know that God is alive and well....and in your heart!
Jeremiah had a heart for God. The Study tells us, he had no money. He had no family. He had no friends. He only had the love of the Lord God. And so he obeyed. As we look at the record of what Jeremiah did in his lifetime: he faithfully confronted the leaders and the people of their sin and prophesied both their 70 year captivity in Babylon and their eventual return from exile. He was forcefully taken to Egypt, yet he remained faithful in spite of Jerusalem's destruction. After years of obedience, he became strong and courageous.
To repeat what the Study in my Bible says, "God measures our {yours and mine) success with the yardsticks of obedience, faithfulness, and righteousness. If we are faithfully doing the work God gives us, we are successful in His eyes."
God's eyes are upon us...you and me!
May we be obedient, faithful and righteous,
Jo in MN
Monday, August 25, 2014
MAKE A FRIEND; BE A FRIEND.......
In reading my morning assignment for journaling today, the words of 2 John jumped out at me, answering what we might ask ourselves, "What is love?" 2 John, verse 6 says: "And this is love; that we walk in obedience to His commands. As you have heard from the beginning, His command is that you walk in love."
The following Study goes on to say, "We can show love in many ways: by avoiding prejudice and discrimination, by accepting people, by listening, helping, giving, serving and refusing to judge. Knowing God's command is not enough. We must put it into practice, "walking in obedience to His commands."
Another part of the Study refers to "being watchful against false teaching." I encourage you, if you are new to "walking in obedience to Christ's commands," to check what you are learning here on these pages with an authorized bible teacher. It is vital to be watchful for false teaching. I pray that it is not so on these pages, but I am not an ordained person, so check with a pastor friend if you have any question about the authenticity of Jesus in my words.
Jesus is my friend and I want Him to be yours, as well. One of the things I learned long ago is this: "Make a friend; be a friend; bring that friend to Christ." Loving takes time and courage. I think I have both for loving you.
I do hope we are friends!
Jo of MN, Friend in Christ
The following Study goes on to say, "We can show love in many ways: by avoiding prejudice and discrimination, by accepting people, by listening, helping, giving, serving and refusing to judge. Knowing God's command is not enough. We must put it into practice, "walking in obedience to His commands."
Another part of the Study refers to "being watchful against false teaching." I encourage you, if you are new to "walking in obedience to Christ's commands," to check what you are learning here on these pages with an authorized bible teacher. It is vital to be watchful for false teaching. I pray that it is not so on these pages, but I am not an ordained person, so check with a pastor friend if you have any question about the authenticity of Jesus in my words.
Jesus is my friend and I want Him to be yours, as well. One of the things I learned long ago is this: "Make a friend; be a friend; bring that friend to Christ." Loving takes time and courage. I think I have both for loving you.
I do hope we are friends!
Jo of MN, Friend in Christ
Friday, August 22, 2014
ABOUT PRAYER.......
I want to write something about prayer today, so I will begin with the most advantageous verse possible, I think, that I could find. Again in First John, Chapter 3, verses 21-23. "Dear Friends," (John says) "If our hearts do not condemn us, we have confidence before God and receive from him anything we ask, because we obey his commands and do what pleases him. And this is his command: to believe in the name of his son, Jesus Christ, and to love one another as he commanded us."
Before I remark in any way, I would like to read some of what the Study says in this same Bible: "If your conscience is clear, you can come to God without fear, confident that your request may be heard. You will receive if you obey and do what pleases him because you will then be asking in line with God's will. Of course, this does not mean that you can have anything you want, like instant riches. If you are truly seeking God's will, there are some requests you will not make!"
I'm sure you will remember, God knows our motives as well as our actions.
How to pray? There are dozens of books on it. Since the ancient Christian writers until today, many people have tried to share in words.... What's the Best Way to Pray!
I used to have a prayer chair when I was a new Christian. My children were not yet grown and I had a struggle finding time to sit down, read the Scripture, figure out what it meant to me, pray about it and some other things, and just feel close to God. (I still call it my Prayer Chair when describing that particular seat next to the opposite wall, over thirty years later!) The Lord woke me up out of a deep sleep each night around two a.m. and down the stairs I'd go to my chair. There I would read, write, and pray. I never missed a wink! And I grew in Him, thankfully!
Later, people began asking me to pray for them, and I did. But, much later, I realized that a long list of people to pray for is unrealistic for a busy mom who has much to learn herself about God. For some real need, I was always glad to pray, but for some I would say, "I will definitely pray for you whenever God brings you to my mind." And I would do just that!
One time, a church friend came to me with the question, 'Why did God say "yes" to your prayer and"no" to mine?" We both had relatives who were seeking divorce and her family member and spouse went through with their divorce while mine did not. This young woman was devastated! I had no answer for her, and held her in my arms while she cried. The marriage I prayed about did eventually end in divorce, but at that moment I could not answer her. I came to realize that our God knows everything. We do not. God sometimes has to use something we think of as bad for the better good. Trusting God is never easy, but we must learn it and re-learn it if we must!
God is always good and may choose what is best for His time and not ours.!
There is much to be said for God's will! What looks like "no" may also be "later." Death may bring the "peace" we have prayed for someone. There are many ways to answer a prayer , but it may not be the answer for which we hoped. God knows best. Yes, He does! Believe it. And the prayer you prayed is beautiful to Him. That I know...in my knower! Have the faith that God loves a prayer and you can't go wrong when praying.
When your prayer life becomes your whole life that is the best. Pray as you breathe, sing, walk, work and play. Be on the phone to Him all day long letting Him know what a great day, or not, it is, or isn't! He loves a steady blow by blow of your life, as He is your steady friend, and sometimes your Only Friend!
The world is tough? God is tougher. No matter what the problem, God will help you solve it. All it takes is trust, trust and more trust. Trust and pray for there's no other way.
And I'm in this with you, trusting and praying!
Jo of MN...It's all about God!
Before I remark in any way, I would like to read some of what the Study says in this same Bible: "If your conscience is clear, you can come to God without fear, confident that your request may be heard. You will receive if you obey and do what pleases him because you will then be asking in line with God's will. Of course, this does not mean that you can have anything you want, like instant riches. If you are truly seeking God's will, there are some requests you will not make!"
I'm sure you will remember, God knows our motives as well as our actions.
How to pray? There are dozens of books on it. Since the ancient Christian writers until today, many people have tried to share in words.... What's the Best Way to Pray!
I used to have a prayer chair when I was a new Christian. My children were not yet grown and I had a struggle finding time to sit down, read the Scripture, figure out what it meant to me, pray about it and some other things, and just feel close to God. (I still call it my Prayer Chair when describing that particular seat next to the opposite wall, over thirty years later!) The Lord woke me up out of a deep sleep each night around two a.m. and down the stairs I'd go to my chair. There I would read, write, and pray. I never missed a wink! And I grew in Him, thankfully!
Later, people began asking me to pray for them, and I did. But, much later, I realized that a long list of people to pray for is unrealistic for a busy mom who has much to learn herself about God. For some real need, I was always glad to pray, but for some I would say, "I will definitely pray for you whenever God brings you to my mind." And I would do just that!
One time, a church friend came to me with the question, 'Why did God say "yes" to your prayer and"no" to mine?" We both had relatives who were seeking divorce and her family member and spouse went through with their divorce while mine did not. This young woman was devastated! I had no answer for her, and held her in my arms while she cried. The marriage I prayed about did eventually end in divorce, but at that moment I could not answer her. I came to realize that our God knows everything. We do not. God sometimes has to use something we think of as bad for the better good. Trusting God is never easy, but we must learn it and re-learn it if we must!
God is always good and may choose what is best for His time and not ours.!
There is much to be said for God's will! What looks like "no" may also be "later." Death may bring the "peace" we have prayed for someone. There are many ways to answer a prayer , but it may not be the answer for which we hoped. God knows best. Yes, He does! Believe it. And the prayer you prayed is beautiful to Him. That I know...in my knower! Have the faith that God loves a prayer and you can't go wrong when praying.
When your prayer life becomes your whole life that is the best. Pray as you breathe, sing, walk, work and play. Be on the phone to Him all day long letting Him know what a great day, or not, it is, or isn't! He loves a steady blow by blow of your life, as He is your steady friend, and sometimes your Only Friend!
The world is tough? God is tougher. No matter what the problem, God will help you solve it. All it takes is trust, trust and more trust. Trust and pray for there's no other way.
And I'm in this with you, trusting and praying!
Jo of MN...It's all about God!
Thursday, August 21, 2014
WHERE DO WE FIND THE WAY TO AN ASSURED, LOVING LIFE?
There are many ways to find assurance with God. Some find it by getting married and joining his new wife's church, like my brother. Another might find God and the assurance of His love through a friend. There are many ways: A piece of music, a falling leaf, a lonely person, a chained doggie's cry, a new Bible, a rainstorm, a near accident, our own failures.
And there are just as many ways to honor God: give your life to the Church, help the poor and unfortunate, do what is right; write God a song; read the bible.
There is only one sure way to find assurance in God and to honor Him... Accept Him for Who He is and What He does!
God accepts us as we are and as the who we are. He doesn't ask our name. He doesn't look at our job and weigh its opportunities. He doesn't care what wrongs we have done or what rights we have tried to make. He doesn't care when we make this decision, although, I would suppose there is some benefit to Him to have our usefulness for a few years on this earth. You know, for helping Him to help someone who also needs Him.
There are a multitude of reasons that God might want you to find and love Him. He is not very hard to find...just look around. Yes... He is in what He has created!
But, especially look at the people! Let's imagine that there is a sign on them that tells you which one is His! Can't see the difference? Oh, yeah! That's because they are all His! Now, which one's know they are His? Now we're getting at it. Maybe those who seem to be at peace know they are His.
I know one beautiful woman well who gives a shining example of someone who has assurance in God. She abused drugs and alcohol early in her life although she had made a good marriage and came from a good family. Nothing was perfect, of course, about those families, just ordinary folks. There was a growing belief of God in them, but lots of misunderstanding, too. At the age of 40, with the help of someone who loved her, she began to get the help she needed for her addictions and went to AA where she began to discover the wonders of God. Today, she finds God always with her and prefers to worship Him in the woods and in nature. She has become a fine nurse and loves her children and her parents. She is now a fairly new grandma and is never without her Lord!
At the same time, another beautiful woman I know well, begged her mother to let her go to a Christian school because she couldn't bear to hear the other students use Jesus' name the way they did. She worships God in her every breath. Yet, she is not perfect! And she knows she will not be perfect until the day she is at home with the Lord Jesus! Her husband and children love the Lord, and their many friends do as well. All are easy to love as they love so easily! When you meet them, you are assured of God's love by their presence which is filled with His presence.
Yep! There are all kinds of people and all kinds of Christians. God loves them all. Some know it
and some don't! Guess which ones are smiling!
The company of God is always within us. The trick is to become mindful of Him. From the time we awaken in the morning, He waits for our "Hello!" As we lay to rest at night, He is whispering, "I love you. Sleep well!" He is just waiting for our acknowledgment.
We don't have to make a deliberate choice, necessarily. We will probably choose without ever recognizing we are choosing. Only, God is waiting!
To borrow a phrase from a friend of mine, Life is: Loving, Learning, and Living in Praise to the Lord.
Loving those who read these simple words of mine, I must add, He is Good, so Good!
Jo of MN
And there are just as many ways to honor God: give your life to the Church, help the poor and unfortunate, do what is right; write God a song; read the bible.
There is only one sure way to find assurance in God and to honor Him... Accept Him for Who He is and What He does!
God accepts us as we are and as the who we are. He doesn't ask our name. He doesn't look at our job and weigh its opportunities. He doesn't care what wrongs we have done or what rights we have tried to make. He doesn't care when we make this decision, although, I would suppose there is some benefit to Him to have our usefulness for a few years on this earth. You know, for helping Him to help someone who also needs Him.
There are a multitude of reasons that God might want you to find and love Him. He is not very hard to find...just look around. Yes... He is in what He has created!
But, especially look at the people! Let's imagine that there is a sign on them that tells you which one is His! Can't see the difference? Oh, yeah! That's because they are all His! Now, which one's know they are His? Now we're getting at it. Maybe those who seem to be at peace know they are His.
I know one beautiful woman well who gives a shining example of someone who has assurance in God. She abused drugs and alcohol early in her life although she had made a good marriage and came from a good family. Nothing was perfect, of course, about those families, just ordinary folks. There was a growing belief of God in them, but lots of misunderstanding, too. At the age of 40, with the help of someone who loved her, she began to get the help she needed for her addictions and went to AA where she began to discover the wonders of God. Today, she finds God always with her and prefers to worship Him in the woods and in nature. She has become a fine nurse and loves her children and her parents. She is now a fairly new grandma and is never without her Lord!
At the same time, another beautiful woman I know well, begged her mother to let her go to a Christian school because she couldn't bear to hear the other students use Jesus' name the way they did. She worships God in her every breath. Yet, she is not perfect! And she knows she will not be perfect until the day she is at home with the Lord Jesus! Her husband and children love the Lord, and their many friends do as well. All are easy to love as they love so easily! When you meet them, you are assured of God's love by their presence which is filled with His presence.
Yep! There are all kinds of people and all kinds of Christians. God loves them all. Some know it
and some don't! Guess which ones are smiling!
The company of God is always within us. The trick is to become mindful of Him. From the time we awaken in the morning, He waits for our "Hello!" As we lay to rest at night, He is whispering, "I love you. Sleep well!" He is just waiting for our acknowledgment.
We don't have to make a deliberate choice, necessarily. We will probably choose without ever recognizing we are choosing. Only, God is waiting!
To borrow a phrase from a friend of mine, Life is: Loving, Learning, and Living in Praise to the Lord.
Loving those who read these simple words of mine, I must add, He is Good, so Good!
Jo of MN
Wednesday, August 20, 2014
THE DISCIPLE JESUS LOVED: JOHN
It isn't that Jesus only loved John, or that John was more loved than the other disciples, it was this: John knew that Jesus loved him, loved John just as he was and loved him as he could be. John, Peter, and James were like brothers to Jesus and on the day Christ was crucified, John knew Jesus loved him more than any one had ever loved him before.
John wrote three letters just to encourage Christians, when Christianity was about a generation old. He felt it necessary to add his heart and his words to pump-up the churches then found to be in some decline. The church was confronting the problem of declining commitment. Many believers were conforming to the world's standards, failing to stand up for Christ.
One of the greatest messages he left for the people of the world is the truth as Christ taught. In I John 1, verses 8-9, it tells us: "If we claim to be without sin, we deceive ourselves and the truth is not in us. If we confess our sins, he (God) is faithful and just and will forgive our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness. If we claim we have not sinned, we make him out to be a liar and his word has no place in our lives."
Whew! That's saying it like it is!
I remember one time when I was at work in a church office helping with a mailing with about five others. Someone suggested that we discuss "sin." After some thought, a couple people said aloud what they thought their worst sin had been or still was. We prayed for each one as they spoke. One woman said, "I don't sin." We were all flabbergasted! (Old fashioned word.) We didn't know what to say. I wish I had been knowledgeable of John's first letter at that time!
Another problem could occur, we can hurt ourselves and our relationship with God if we can't quite believe we are really forgiven for something, If we have asked for forgiveness, we have received forgiveness! Not believing we are forgiven is not trusting God to do what He says He will do!
I can't quite remember the source for this: Return, Repent , Renewal, (God's)Redemption, Rejoice! Five R's might help us remember how to stay out of the dog-house. (Remember: God loves Dogs ...and you ANYWAY!) Pride might keep us from falling on our knees and God hates self-righteousness. I confess, I am familiar with both! But do your best and be sure to remember to Thank and Praise Him, which I suppose is part of that last R.
I'm sure some of you might have been able to add a lot of insight into this meditation or whatever you might call it. I wish you to! But if it helps only one person yearning to belong to God, I'm happy!
And happy to be out of the sick-bed at last! No..no tears!
Your Friend in Christ,
MN Jo
John wrote three letters just to encourage Christians, when Christianity was about a generation old. He felt it necessary to add his heart and his words to pump-up the churches then found to be in some decline. The church was confronting the problem of declining commitment. Many believers were conforming to the world's standards, failing to stand up for Christ.
One of the greatest messages he left for the people of the world is the truth as Christ taught. In I John 1, verses 8-9, it tells us: "If we claim to be without sin, we deceive ourselves and the truth is not in us. If we confess our sins, he (God) is faithful and just and will forgive our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness. If we claim we have not sinned, we make him out to be a liar and his word has no place in our lives."
Whew! That's saying it like it is!
I remember one time when I was at work in a church office helping with a mailing with about five others. Someone suggested that we discuss "sin." After some thought, a couple people said aloud what they thought their worst sin had been or still was. We prayed for each one as they spoke. One woman said, "I don't sin." We were all flabbergasted! (Old fashioned word.) We didn't know what to say. I wish I had been knowledgeable of John's first letter at that time!
Another problem could occur, we can hurt ourselves and our relationship with God if we can't quite believe we are really forgiven for something, If we have asked for forgiveness, we have received forgiveness! Not believing we are forgiven is not trusting God to do what He says He will do!
I can't quite remember the source for this: Return, Repent , Renewal, (God's)Redemption, Rejoice! Five R's might help us remember how to stay out of the dog-house. (Remember: God loves Dogs ...and you ANYWAY!) Pride might keep us from falling on our knees and God hates self-righteousness. I confess, I am familiar with both! But do your best and be sure to remember to Thank and Praise Him, which I suppose is part of that last R.
I'm sure some of you might have been able to add a lot of insight into this meditation or whatever you might call it. I wish you to! But if it helps only one person yearning to belong to God, I'm happy!
And happy to be out of the sick-bed at last! No..no tears!
Your Friend in Christ,
MN Jo
Saturday, August 16, 2014
A TESTIMONY OF THE TRUTH
The portion of the Bible we are about to read tells me why Jesus gave this testimony to Pilate when He was arrested. His words are truth, and who else can claim the same. John 18:36 and 37, tells His story like it is. But, did Pilate really believe it? The Jews didn't want to! And today's world isn't much different. They believe as the Jews did then. What they thought, they did, for the benefit of themselves.
John 18:36,37 as follows: "Jesus said, "My kingdom is not of this world. If it were, my servants would fight to prevent my arrest by the Jews. But now my kingdom is from another place."
"You are a king then!" said Pilate.
Jesus answered, "You are right in saying, "I am a king." In fact, for this reason I was born, and for this reason I came into the world, to testify to the truth. Everyone on the side of truth listens to me."
These are the words that penetrate my mind. He could have saved His life if He had not spoken the truth.
Study: "Pilate asked Jesus a straightforward question, and Jesus answered clearly. Jesus is a King, but a king whose kingdom is not of this world. There seems to be a question in Pilate's mind that Jesus spoke the truth and was innocent of any crime. It also seems apparent that while recognizing the truth, Pilate chose to reject it. It is a tragedy when we fail to recognize the truth. It is a greater tragedy when we recognize the truth but fail to heed it."
More Study: "Pilate was cynical; he thought all truth was relative. To many government officials, truth was whatever the majority agreed with or whatever advanced their own personal power and political goals. When there is no basis for truth, there is no basis for moral right and wrong. Justice becomes whatever works or whatever helps those in power. In Jesus, and His Word, we have a standard for the truth and for our moral behavior."
Our government may still be the greatest in the world, but I think we have seen some cracks in its perfection and it helps to have a standard other than our country's. That is why I choose the Bible, for it was the Bible that inspired our first leaders!
I hope this story of Jesus and Pontius Pilate helps you understand the role Jesus played in
covering the sins of the world by being crucified. The minute Jesus died our sinfulness was paid for! The Father could earlier see that nothing short of our death would cover the sinfulness of our world, including you and me. But, He loved us. Yes, He loved us so much that He thought it better that His Son would handle it. And He did, much better than you and I. How can we not love Him for HIs tragic death? Do we not owe Him our love in return?
I pray for you to agree, and for your heart to sing praises to Him who loved beyond any love that we have ever known.
Let Him be your Friend! He will always be there for you whenever you speak His Name.
He's my Friend, too! Even in MN.
Jo of MN
John 18:36,37 as follows: "Jesus said, "My kingdom is not of this world. If it were, my servants would fight to prevent my arrest by the Jews. But now my kingdom is from another place."
"You are a king then!" said Pilate.
Jesus answered, "You are right in saying, "I am a king." In fact, for this reason I was born, and for this reason I came into the world, to testify to the truth. Everyone on the side of truth listens to me."
These are the words that penetrate my mind. He could have saved His life if He had not spoken the truth.
Study: "Pilate asked Jesus a straightforward question, and Jesus answered clearly. Jesus is a King, but a king whose kingdom is not of this world. There seems to be a question in Pilate's mind that Jesus spoke the truth and was innocent of any crime. It also seems apparent that while recognizing the truth, Pilate chose to reject it. It is a tragedy when we fail to recognize the truth. It is a greater tragedy when we recognize the truth but fail to heed it."
More Study: "Pilate was cynical; he thought all truth was relative. To many government officials, truth was whatever the majority agreed with or whatever advanced their own personal power and political goals. When there is no basis for truth, there is no basis for moral right and wrong. Justice becomes whatever works or whatever helps those in power. In Jesus, and His Word, we have a standard for the truth and for our moral behavior."
Our government may still be the greatest in the world, but I think we have seen some cracks in its perfection and it helps to have a standard other than our country's. That is why I choose the Bible, for it was the Bible that inspired our first leaders!
I hope this story of Jesus and Pontius Pilate helps you understand the role Jesus played in
covering the sins of the world by being crucified. The minute Jesus died our sinfulness was paid for! The Father could earlier see that nothing short of our death would cover the sinfulness of our world, including you and me. But, He loved us. Yes, He loved us so much that He thought it better that His Son would handle it. And He did, much better than you and I. How can we not love Him for HIs tragic death? Do we not owe Him our love in return?
I pray for you to agree, and for your heart to sing praises to Him who loved beyond any love that we have ever known.
Let Him be your Friend! He will always be there for you whenever you speak His Name.
He's my Friend, too! Even in MN.
Jo of MN
Friday, August 15, 2014
CLAY IN THE HANDS OF THE BELOVED POTTER
Jeremiah 18:6, my reading for today, tells us about the House of Israel in Jeremiah's time. Israel had turned from obeying the Lord in order to do their own thing. Verse 6 follows: ""Oh House of Israel, can I not do with you as this potter does?" declares the Lord. "Like clay in the hand of the potter, so are you in my hand, O House of Israel.""
Things were a mess in Israel. Here the people are, remnants of those Moses brought through the wilderness, having being fed, comforted, given hope for a safe land for themselves, and yet over the generations they had forgotten God's goodness. Now, they wanted to be like other nations and forget worshipping God. The gods of other nations seemed a whole lot more attractive to them.
What does the Study say about these lost folks? "As the potter molded or shaped a clay pot on the potter's wheel, defects often appeared. The potter had power over the clay to permit the defects to remain or to reshape the pot. Likewise, God had the power to reshape the nation of Israel to conform to His purposes." I
"God, however, chose not to reshape Israel, as He had become angered with them. But, God still has the power to reshape you and me today. Our strategy should not be to become mindless and passive--one aspect of clay--but to be willing and receptive to God's impact on us. As we yield to God, He begins re-shaping us into valuable vessels."
I believe God was hoping Israel would seek Him and obey Him again, as it had been in earlier days. But, He could see Israel had doomed itself by doing evil in God's sight and refused to obey God. God turned against Israel in Jeremiah's day and punished Israel because they would not turn from their own stubbornness.
Again, the Study: "Left unchecked, stubbornness becomes a way of life hostile to God."
Personally, I was stubborn for a long time about a change God was trying to make in me. I didn't recognize He was trying to teach me of my pride. I would grow angry toward anyone who made the slightest criticism of me or of what I was doing. It is wrong to be stubborn, and wrong to reject criticism which is meant to be helpful.
I pray that I will seek the Holy Spirit for help when the wrongness of my spirit begins to feel agitated. I'll gladly say, "Holy Spirit, check my stubbornness and give me the grace to accept these words and what they imply that I may use them to give this person grace and love."
For In HIs Name , I do have Grace and Love for whomever crosses my path.
May it be so, Lord Jesus!
Jo of MN, says "Hello again, friend."
Things were a mess in Israel. Here the people are, remnants of those Moses brought through the wilderness, having being fed, comforted, given hope for a safe land for themselves, and yet over the generations they had forgotten God's goodness. Now, they wanted to be like other nations and forget worshipping God. The gods of other nations seemed a whole lot more attractive to them.
What does the Study say about these lost folks? "As the potter molded or shaped a clay pot on the potter's wheel, defects often appeared. The potter had power over the clay to permit the defects to remain or to reshape the pot. Likewise, God had the power to reshape the nation of Israel to conform to His purposes." I
"God, however, chose not to reshape Israel, as He had become angered with them. But, God still has the power to reshape you and me today. Our strategy should not be to become mindless and passive--one aspect of clay--but to be willing and receptive to God's impact on us. As we yield to God, He begins re-shaping us into valuable vessels."
I believe God was hoping Israel would seek Him and obey Him again, as it had been in earlier days. But, He could see Israel had doomed itself by doing evil in God's sight and refused to obey God. God turned against Israel in Jeremiah's day and punished Israel because they would not turn from their own stubbornness.
Again, the Study: "Left unchecked, stubbornness becomes a way of life hostile to God."
Personally, I was stubborn for a long time about a change God was trying to make in me. I didn't recognize He was trying to teach me of my pride. I would grow angry toward anyone who made the slightest criticism of me or of what I was doing. It is wrong to be stubborn, and wrong to reject criticism which is meant to be helpful.
I pray that I will seek the Holy Spirit for help when the wrongness of my spirit begins to feel agitated. I'll gladly say, "Holy Spirit, check my stubbornness and give me the grace to accept these words and what they imply that I may use them to give this person grace and love."
For In HIs Name , I do have Grace and Love for whomever crosses my path.
May it be so, Lord Jesus!
Jo of MN, says "Hello again, friend."
Wednesday, August 13, 2014
LIGHT AND LOVE FOR THE CHOSEN
It may be a rather corny title, but it fits with the words of John 15:16. "You did not choose me, but I chose you and appointed you to go and bear fruit--fruit that will last. Then the Father will give you whatever you ask in my name." Once we have decided to follow Jesus, we become disciples, too, so the words of John 16 are fitting for us as well as for His chosen Twelve.
I hope that someone out there may have made a commitment to follow Jesus, the God/Man who changed the world. As a follow-up to yesterday's blog, Chapter 15 of John seemed necessary. We think we have made a choice, but God had first chosen us! If we had all stood in a line-up and God had strolled along side of us and picked out who he wanted to be His disciple, I doubt that any one of us would have thought, "I just know He will choose me!"
I would have been the last one to think that! Maybe you, too! But He did choose us, if we had first desired to be chosen. But where to now? What comes next? Do I have to leave home? Be a missionary in China? Memorize the Bible?
The Study simplifies things for us: "Jesus made the first choice--to love us and to die for us, to invite us to live with Him forever". We made the next choice--to accept or reject his offer. Without his choice, we would have no choice!"
Once chosen, our job is to Love One Another. And this is a huge job. The original Disciples had a dickens of a time trying to remember to love one another. But little by little, with the help of the Holy Spirit who is there for us as well, they understood that loving one another meant accepting one another with our foibles and irritants, as well as our love and devotion. Even Judas, the traitor, who was the worst transgressor was in need of forgiveness. And forgiving one another is another form of love.
Our churches have foibles and disagreements, but down deep we know that our Lord has asked us to Love One Another. And with His help there is plenty of love and more as we ask for it. People are people, naturally imperfect, but ready to seek God's help for any change we must make.
I have often asked myself, "Why me? Why would Christ choose me? I have no special gift to use for Him?" I only know this: I need Him! I need the Holy Spirit! Now, His Spirit lives within me! And I live in Him. I am One with the Lord God Almighty! For this, I praise you and thank you, Lord Jesus, and for the many brothers and sisters in the Lord that are mine as well!
And I hope this merry band of people includes you, My Friend! The more the merrier!
Until another day.
Jo of MN
I hope that someone out there may have made a commitment to follow Jesus, the God/Man who changed the world. As a follow-up to yesterday's blog, Chapter 15 of John seemed necessary. We think we have made a choice, but God had first chosen us! If we had all stood in a line-up and God had strolled along side of us and picked out who he wanted to be His disciple, I doubt that any one of us would have thought, "I just know He will choose me!"
I would have been the last one to think that! Maybe you, too! But He did choose us, if we had first desired to be chosen. But where to now? What comes next? Do I have to leave home? Be a missionary in China? Memorize the Bible?
The Study simplifies things for us: "Jesus made the first choice--to love us and to die for us, to invite us to live with Him forever". We made the next choice--to accept or reject his offer. Without his choice, we would have no choice!"
Once chosen, our job is to Love One Another. And this is a huge job. The original Disciples had a dickens of a time trying to remember to love one another. But little by little, with the help of the Holy Spirit who is there for us as well, they understood that loving one another meant accepting one another with our foibles and irritants, as well as our love and devotion. Even Judas, the traitor, who was the worst transgressor was in need of forgiveness. And forgiving one another is another form of love.
Our churches have foibles and disagreements, but down deep we know that our Lord has asked us to Love One Another. And with His help there is plenty of love and more as we ask for it. People are people, naturally imperfect, but ready to seek God's help for any change we must make.
I have often asked myself, "Why me? Why would Christ choose me? I have no special gift to use for Him?" I only know this: I need Him! I need the Holy Spirit! Now, His Spirit lives within me! And I live in Him. I am One with the Lord God Almighty! For this, I praise you and thank you, Lord Jesus, and for the many brothers and sisters in the Lord that are mine as well!
And I hope this merry band of people includes you, My Friend! The more the merrier!
Until another day.
Jo of MN
Tuesday, August 12, 2014
IS THIS THE TRAIN FOR HEAVEN?
Years ago, my mom sang a song to me which her mother had sung to her. It was called, IS THIS THE TRAIN FOR HEAVEN? I loved that song and sang it to my kids. I had the great honor of singing it to my mom the night she lay dying from cancer. My voice was never great, but that night it seemed to be just right.
Now, I know there is no train for heaven. I may be old, but I'm not stupid. The book of John 14 in verses 1 through 3 tells me all I need to know. John 14:3 reads, "Do not let your hearts be troubled. Trust in God; trust also in me. In my Father's house are many rooms. If it were not so, I would have told you. I am going there to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come back and take you to be with me that you also may be where I am. You know the way to the place where I am going."
"You know the way," the words say. I think only Jesus Christ knows the way, and that is why I choose to know God through the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ. Through Him, I know I will find the way. (I know it in my knower!)
The study in this Bible adds to my knowing: "Jesus words' show that the way to eternal life, though unseen, is secure--as secure as your trust in Jesus. He has already prepared the way to eternal life. The only issue that may still be unsettled is your willingness to believe."
I believe. But, how many others in this great, wide, world also believe? As I see it, the whole world is in need of Being Saved. No matter what country you examine there is turmoil, hate, personal ambition, violence, refusal to give in, no sharing, no peace, no compassion, no unity.
As I try to understand Jesus' message here, I see that the whole world has gone awry. Not even a Christian nation seems to have a clue about living within the Way which offers real peace and joy. It's My way, the One and Only way, and don't try to change my mind!
Our small world, that is our world locally is doing the best we know how to give of ourselves. A lot of people are Paying-it-Forward these days. We can read about this in a special part of our newspaper. I take my hat off to those who are trying to live unselfishly. It is a good idea and some seem to be thankful for the kindnesses and make offers to Pay-it-Forward themselves.
With the Lord moving within us, think about the goodness we could bring. What if we as individual Christians showed how we could change our own world by being kind in Christ's name to one another. Maybe it would catch on and be repeated within nations. I hope I am not just blowing steam! But if you are going to dream, you might as well dream big!
Never a worry about where we will be when we die; just hopeful about how we might live! I'm going to call it The Front and make it a peaceful, kind, giving of myself Front in my daily walk, at the grocery store, at the doctor's office, in the park and in my household...kindness and gifting will prevail!
Are you with me?
Jo in MN, for helping the USA. and the rest of the World know Jesus!
Now, I know there is no train for heaven. I may be old, but I'm not stupid. The book of John 14 in verses 1 through 3 tells me all I need to know. John 14:3 reads, "Do not let your hearts be troubled. Trust in God; trust also in me. In my Father's house are many rooms. If it were not so, I would have told you. I am going there to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come back and take you to be with me that you also may be where I am. You know the way to the place where I am going."
"You know the way," the words say. I think only Jesus Christ knows the way, and that is why I choose to know God through the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ. Through Him, I know I will find the way. (I know it in my knower!)
The study in this Bible adds to my knowing: "Jesus words' show that the way to eternal life, though unseen, is secure--as secure as your trust in Jesus. He has already prepared the way to eternal life. The only issue that may still be unsettled is your willingness to believe."
I believe. But, how many others in this great, wide, world also believe? As I see it, the whole world is in need of Being Saved. No matter what country you examine there is turmoil, hate, personal ambition, violence, refusal to give in, no sharing, no peace, no compassion, no unity.
As I try to understand Jesus' message here, I see that the whole world has gone awry. Not even a Christian nation seems to have a clue about living within the Way which offers real peace and joy. It's My way, the One and Only way, and don't try to change my mind!
Our small world, that is our world locally is doing the best we know how to give of ourselves. A lot of people are Paying-it-Forward these days. We can read about this in a special part of our newspaper. I take my hat off to those who are trying to live unselfishly. It is a good idea and some seem to be thankful for the kindnesses and make offers to Pay-it-Forward themselves.
With the Lord moving within us, think about the goodness we could bring. What if we as individual Christians showed how we could change our own world by being kind in Christ's name to one another. Maybe it would catch on and be repeated within nations. I hope I am not just blowing steam! But if you are going to dream, you might as well dream big!
Never a worry about where we will be when we die; just hopeful about how we might live! I'm going to call it The Front and make it a peaceful, kind, giving of myself Front in my daily walk, at the grocery store, at the doctor's office, in the park and in my household...kindness and gifting will prevail!
Are you with me?
Jo in MN, for helping the USA. and the rest of the World know Jesus!
Monday, August 11, 2014
STRETCHING OUR CAPACITY TO LOVE
I hate it when someone hurts me. I'm a human terror when confronted with an imperfection. I say, "It's one thing to know you're imperfect, but does the rest of the world have to go around reminding me?"
Well, I guess no one likes criticism, but I have to learn to accept it. Ah, me! Acceptance. Another hard part of loving others God has given me. Sigh!
The Bible's book of John makes how to love very clear when Jesus washes the disciples' feet. Jn. 13:34,35 reads: "A new command I give you. Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. By this all men will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another." So, from one disciple to another, there must be love.
The study part of the Bible made how to love quite clear. "Love is more than simply warm feelings; it is an attitude that reveals itself in action. How can we love others as Jesus loves us? By helping others when it's not convenient, by giving when it hurts, by devoting energy to others' welfare rather than our own, by absorbing hurts from others without complaining or fighting back. This kind of loving is hard to do, That is why people notice when you do it and know you are empowered by a supernatural source."
By accepting Jesus as our Lord, we accept His life in us, The Holy Spirit. And the Spirit will help us immediately when we ask Him to see us through an inconvenient time for us to show love. He'll be right there when we call on Him. If I think, oh this is so inconvenient.... or, I'm so tired today, or I have so much to do...I just can't do this, too!...and we probably will try to find an excuse! Well, just call out, "Holy Spirit, show me how to show love to this person, please!" And He will be there. Something will come into your mind or heart and you will be able to help the one asking for love. God helps us to keep the commands He gives us.
I know this is true. Some may think it just a baby step in obedience. Well, I am still a baby in a lot of ways. Figuring out how to love someone else when I am the one who is busy, hurting, needy, lonely, tired, or some other thing on my personal agenda isn't easy. And I'll probably fail sometime and forget to call on the Holy Spirit. But He'll always be there .......waiting. Having called on Him once and He came...and He helped me remember to have grace for the person who mildly complained of me, I felt such joy! Joy! Joy! I pray that I will always remember the joy of not giving in to my need to punish a poor offender! Love, with Christ's help, was easy to give away!
I am praying that someday this message will be read, will be believed, will be used and another person will have a new capacity to love.
Thank you, Lord, for your patience with me. It took me far too many years to learn this.
As for you, reader, I hope you discover the Holy Spirit is awaiting your call!
Friends forever..........
Jo of MN
Well, I guess no one likes criticism, but I have to learn to accept it. Ah, me! Acceptance. Another hard part of loving others God has given me. Sigh!
The Bible's book of John makes how to love very clear when Jesus washes the disciples' feet. Jn. 13:34,35 reads: "A new command I give you. Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. By this all men will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another." So, from one disciple to another, there must be love.
The study part of the Bible made how to love quite clear. "Love is more than simply warm feelings; it is an attitude that reveals itself in action. How can we love others as Jesus loves us? By helping others when it's not convenient, by giving when it hurts, by devoting energy to others' welfare rather than our own, by absorbing hurts from others without complaining or fighting back. This kind of loving is hard to do, That is why people notice when you do it and know you are empowered by a supernatural source."
By accepting Jesus as our Lord, we accept His life in us, The Holy Spirit. And the Spirit will help us immediately when we ask Him to see us through an inconvenient time for us to show love. He'll be right there when we call on Him. If I think, oh this is so inconvenient.... or, I'm so tired today, or I have so much to do...I just can't do this, too!...and we probably will try to find an excuse! Well, just call out, "Holy Spirit, show me how to show love to this person, please!" And He will be there. Something will come into your mind or heart and you will be able to help the one asking for love. God helps us to keep the commands He gives us.
I know this is true. Some may think it just a baby step in obedience. Well, I am still a baby in a lot of ways. Figuring out how to love someone else when I am the one who is busy, hurting, needy, lonely, tired, or some other thing on my personal agenda isn't easy. And I'll probably fail sometime and forget to call on the Holy Spirit. But He'll always be there .......waiting. Having called on Him once and He came...and He helped me remember to have grace for the person who mildly complained of me, I felt such joy! Joy! Joy! I pray that I will always remember the joy of not giving in to my need to punish a poor offender! Love, with Christ's help, was easy to give away!
I am praying that someday this message will be read, will be believed, will be used and another person will have a new capacity to love.
Thank you, Lord, for your patience with me. It took me far too many years to learn this.
As for you, reader, I hope you discover the Holy Spirit is awaiting your call!
Friends forever..........
Jo of MN
Saturday, August 9, 2014
JESUS WEEPS FOR THOSE HE LOVES
I read the story of Lazarus' death this morning, and once again, it re-affirmed my certainty that Jesus loves us. In John 11, Jesus' delay in coming to Lazarus to cure him of Lazarus' illness, showed the world that Jesus was capable of raising someone from the dead. But Jesus grieved as he saw how others grieved at Lazarus' death. Here in John 11:33,34 is the picture of Jesus and Mary, Lazarus' sister: "When Jesus saw Mary weeping and the Jews who had come along with her also weeping, he was deeply moved in spirit and troubled. "Where have you laid him?" he asked."
The study goes on to say, "John stresses that we have a God who cares. This portrait of Jesus contrasts with the Greek concept of God that was popular in that day--a god with no emotions and no messy involvement with humans. Here we see many of Jesus' emotions--compassion, indignation, sorrow, even frustration. He often expressed deep emotion, and we must never be afraid to reveal our true feelings to him. He understands them, for he experienced them. Be honest, and don't try to hide anything from your Savior. He cares." End of Study.
It's very true. God does care. And Jesus' coming to earth, born of a woman yet full of the complete knowledge of God who remained in the heavenly places. He cares. Jesus is called God's Son, and so He is. Yet He is still God. As water has three forms--liquid, ice, and steam--so does our God have three forms--God the Father, God the Son, and God the Holy Spirit. Yet, He is the One God.
We aren't ourselves three in one. Or are we?, We could be Fetus, Human Being, and Spirit, the latter which still lived in the memories of those who loved us, reminding and teaching and living within. (I hope this isn't too far-fetched! It is rather a new thought for me. I am my mother in many ways!)
I truly believe, as do many others, that Jesus is waiting for the world to recognize His Godliness. His love for each and all of us is so great that He died... so His Spirit might live on within us, each of us, individually. Therefore, He hears us when we speak to Him. He waits for us to speak to Him. He knows that we need Him, but wants us to ask for Him. He wants our love and is eager to show us His own.
How can we resist? How can anyone resist this man/God? Why? Oh, why is there resistance to His love?
As I shake my head in wonder, I'm afraid I know. Is it because we love ourselves so much there is no room for a Savior? Oh, God, I hope not.
God be with you, my friend, and pray for the world that they would know Him!
Jo of MN
The study goes on to say, "John stresses that we have a God who cares. This portrait of Jesus contrasts with the Greek concept of God that was popular in that day--a god with no emotions and no messy involvement with humans. Here we see many of Jesus' emotions--compassion, indignation, sorrow, even frustration. He often expressed deep emotion, and we must never be afraid to reveal our true feelings to him. He understands them, for he experienced them. Be honest, and don't try to hide anything from your Savior. He cares." End of Study.
It's very true. God does care. And Jesus' coming to earth, born of a woman yet full of the complete knowledge of God who remained in the heavenly places. He cares. Jesus is called God's Son, and so He is. Yet He is still God. As water has three forms--liquid, ice, and steam--so does our God have three forms--God the Father, God the Son, and God the Holy Spirit. Yet, He is the One God.
We aren't ourselves three in one. Or are we?, We could be Fetus, Human Being, and Spirit, the latter which still lived in the memories of those who loved us, reminding and teaching and living within. (I hope this isn't too far-fetched! It is rather a new thought for me. I am my mother in many ways!)
I truly believe, as do many others, that Jesus is waiting for the world to recognize His Godliness. His love for each and all of us is so great that He died... so His Spirit might live on within us, each of us, individually. Therefore, He hears us when we speak to Him. He waits for us to speak to Him. He knows that we need Him, but wants us to ask for Him. He wants our love and is eager to show us His own.
How can we resist? How can anyone resist this man/God? Why? Oh, why is there resistance to His love?
As I shake my head in wonder, I'm afraid I know. Is it because we love ourselves so much there is no room for a Savior? Oh, God, I hope not.
God be with you, my friend, and pray for the world that they would know Him!
Jo of MN
Friday, August 8, 2014
THANKS BE TO GOD!
Reading in Jeremiah this morning, I sympathized with the people who shared their lives during Jeremiah's lifetime. He nagged at them to get with it and remember they were God's people! To no avail, I think, as life just moved along lightly for them. Everything was good... fine... great, really. Everybody was looking up, but they didn't think about, or thank God.
Jer.2:32 reads, "Does a maiden forget her jewelry, a bride her wedding ornaments? Yet my people have forgotten me, days without number."
The words of the study portion of the Bible continue to teach: "Forgetting (about God) can be dangerous, whether it is intentional or an oversight. Israel forgot God by focusing its affections on the allurements of the world. The more we focus on the pleasures of the world, the easier it becomes to forget (or disbelieve) God's care, His love, His dependability, His guidance, and most of all, God Himself. What pleases the world the most? Have we been forgetting God lately?"
These words probably hit home for most everyone. It seems to me that I tend to forget about God when things are going well for me. No big snarls in traffic or at the family dinner table. No trips to the hospital or doctor's office. I even remembered to send birthday cards to the nieces and nephews! Life is good!
But, let a little problem enter our lives.....well, we best not skip church this weekend!
I have lived a long time. I can report honestly that many times during my life the days rolled by smoothly without a hitch. Some days I was like a purring cat, fat and sleepy, and just plain lazy!
But let the sunny days not shine upon my home and family, let the thunder of mis-management or an unknown trouble come along and the Lord would be aware of ceaseless prayer coming from my lips!
I was primarily a bad-news-girl with God!
One day, however, I awakened with a love in my heart for God that made me aware of Him on the good days, too. I wanted to thank Him for the good days, and even sometimes I found myself thanking Him for the bad times for I began to learn so much during my struggles. I didn't know there was so much that I didn't know about God! And the more I knew, the more I loved Him.
Our God deserves to hear....... "Thank you" moment by moment of our lives. Praises, too! Yes, Yes! There is always something every day, even every moment for which we can thank God!
Now I know you don't forget those things most important to you..like your phone. And when you go out to your car....you have your keys in your hand!. Or the phone number of your mom or your best friend.! Well. your heavenly best friend just wants you to remember Him and that He is always there knocking on your door, waiting to see if you care to spend any time with Him today. Just a wee thank you would be grand! And a "Praise you, Lord!" would be terrific!
Lest we forget the guy who brought us to this party, let's let Him know we care about Him!
Remember, you and I are in this together!
Jo of MN
Jer.2:32 reads, "Does a maiden forget her jewelry, a bride her wedding ornaments? Yet my people have forgotten me, days without number."
The words of the study portion of the Bible continue to teach: "Forgetting (about God) can be dangerous, whether it is intentional or an oversight. Israel forgot God by focusing its affections on the allurements of the world. The more we focus on the pleasures of the world, the easier it becomes to forget (or disbelieve) God's care, His love, His dependability, His guidance, and most of all, God Himself. What pleases the world the most? Have we been forgetting God lately?"
These words probably hit home for most everyone. It seems to me that I tend to forget about God when things are going well for me. No big snarls in traffic or at the family dinner table. No trips to the hospital or doctor's office. I even remembered to send birthday cards to the nieces and nephews! Life is good!
But, let a little problem enter our lives.....well, we best not skip church this weekend!
I have lived a long time. I can report honestly that many times during my life the days rolled by smoothly without a hitch. Some days I was like a purring cat, fat and sleepy, and just plain lazy!
But let the sunny days not shine upon my home and family, let the thunder of mis-management or an unknown trouble come along and the Lord would be aware of ceaseless prayer coming from my lips!
I was primarily a bad-news-girl with God!
One day, however, I awakened with a love in my heart for God that made me aware of Him on the good days, too. I wanted to thank Him for the good days, and even sometimes I found myself thanking Him for the bad times for I began to learn so much during my struggles. I didn't know there was so much that I didn't know about God! And the more I knew, the more I loved Him.
Our God deserves to hear....... "Thank you" moment by moment of our lives. Praises, too! Yes, Yes! There is always something every day, even every moment for which we can thank God!
Now I know you don't forget those things most important to you..like your phone. And when you go out to your car....you have your keys in your hand!. Or the phone number of your mom or your best friend.! Well. your heavenly best friend just wants you to remember Him and that He is always there knocking on your door, waiting to see if you care to spend any time with Him today. Just a wee thank you would be grand! And a "Praise you, Lord!" would be terrific!
Lest we forget the guy who brought us to this party, let's let Him know we care about Him!
Remember, you and I are in this together!
Jo of MN
Thursday, August 7, 2014
:LEARNING HIS WAY AND LIVING IT
Although the pinky isn't yet out of its splint, the typing with the right hand is getting better at hunt and peck. So, I'd like to make a new blog today after reading and studying John 9:39.
The Word says, "Jesus said, "For judgment I have come into this world, so that the blind will see and those who see will become blind."
Jesus had just healed--and cured--a man who had been blind from birth. The man's spirit was healed and his blindness cured. He could now see. He could see the people and sights around him. Plus, he could see the Spirit of God in Jesus Himself. The man came to believe Jesus was God because he could perceive Jesus Spirit with his own healed spirit.
The study portion of the Word interested me, as well. "The longer this man experienced his new life through Christ, the more confident he became in Christ who healed him. First he saw Jesus as a prophet, then as his Lord." (Aren't we somewhat like that, too?)
When I first turned to Christ I began to see him differently as the man who was born of God who died on a cross. I began to see Him as a teacher before I saw Him as The Teacher. The longer I walk with Him the better I understand who He is. If we want to know more about Jesus, we must keep walking with Him and learning from Him.
A friend of mine once told me, "I'm tired of always learning. I want Jesus to just let me coast for awhile so I can enjoy His Presence!" Of course, she was only half serious, but perhaps it should be taken seriously. Who better to prepare us for the eternal days, those days not of this world, this world with its pains and struggles as well as joys and ease? This world is but a finishing school for heaven, I think. We need the One who really knows Heaven!
I'm a learner, too. And I'm grateful for what is being taught, even when the learning gives me a few scuffs on my knees and elbows. Cancer was one serious lesson. My eldest daughter living hard as an alcoholic in her early life. My son lived far away from the U.S. as my grandchildren were born. My husband had heart disease which nearly took his life and he had to retire early. And then grandchildren grew up and our children began to have painful decisions to make about their children. Trouble consistently will find the learner, because that's how we learn...through trouble.
Yet, life was good, too. And God never quit reminding us of this. We enjoyed and thanked Him every moment of the good times. And, although it took us a while to learn it, we began to thank Him for the hard times, as well. Learning is what we need, no matter what form it takes. God is good...He is always good!
No walking with Jesus without a little corn on a toe, a twist on an ankle, a stone in the shoe. Something will always be there to give us pain. Learning is usually painful...and that's how we remember the lesson.
We'll have plenty of time to coast along when we are heaven-bent. In the meantime, I'll be going with Jesus wherever He plans to take me, even when I'm tired and just want to coast along easy-like.
Maybe I'll meet you on the road sometime. You know, the road less-traveled! I hope so. I hope we encounter those who see Jesus in His Spirit for the first time and not just as a man who has been mentioned in a big, black book which often remains unread. I might carry my book, worn as it is, with me. How about you?
Your new friend and traveler,
Jo of MN.
The Word says, "Jesus said, "For judgment I have come into this world, so that the blind will see and those who see will become blind."
Jesus had just healed--and cured--a man who had been blind from birth. The man's spirit was healed and his blindness cured. He could now see. He could see the people and sights around him. Plus, he could see the Spirit of God in Jesus Himself. The man came to believe Jesus was God because he could perceive Jesus Spirit with his own healed spirit.
The study portion of the Word interested me, as well. "The longer this man experienced his new life through Christ, the more confident he became in Christ who healed him. First he saw Jesus as a prophet, then as his Lord." (Aren't we somewhat like that, too?)
When I first turned to Christ I began to see him differently as the man who was born of God who died on a cross. I began to see Him as a teacher before I saw Him as The Teacher. The longer I walk with Him the better I understand who He is. If we want to know more about Jesus, we must keep walking with Him and learning from Him.
A friend of mine once told me, "I'm tired of always learning. I want Jesus to just let me coast for awhile so I can enjoy His Presence!" Of course, she was only half serious, but perhaps it should be taken seriously. Who better to prepare us for the eternal days, those days not of this world, this world with its pains and struggles as well as joys and ease? This world is but a finishing school for heaven, I think. We need the One who really knows Heaven!
I'm a learner, too. And I'm grateful for what is being taught, even when the learning gives me a few scuffs on my knees and elbows. Cancer was one serious lesson. My eldest daughter living hard as an alcoholic in her early life. My son lived far away from the U.S. as my grandchildren were born. My husband had heart disease which nearly took his life and he had to retire early. And then grandchildren grew up and our children began to have painful decisions to make about their children. Trouble consistently will find the learner, because that's how we learn...through trouble.
Yet, life was good, too. And God never quit reminding us of this. We enjoyed and thanked Him every moment of the good times. And, although it took us a while to learn it, we began to thank Him for the hard times, as well. Learning is what we need, no matter what form it takes. God is good...He is always good!
No walking with Jesus without a little corn on a toe, a twist on an ankle, a stone in the shoe. Something will always be there to give us pain. Learning is usually painful...and that's how we remember the lesson.
We'll have plenty of time to coast along when we are heaven-bent. In the meantime, I'll be going with Jesus wherever He plans to take me, even when I'm tired and just want to coast along easy-like.
Maybe I'll meet you on the road sometime. You know, the road less-traveled! I hope so. I hope we encounter those who see Jesus in His Spirit for the first time and not just as a man who has been mentioned in a big, black book which often remains unread. I might carry my book, worn as it is, with me. How about you?
Your new friend and traveler,
Jo of MN.
Tuesday, August 5, 2014
BLOGGING CONFIRMED; FULL SPEED AHEAD
Today's blog is based on John 7:17 and the study following. John 7:17. (Jesus says:)"If anyone chooses to do God's will, he will find out whether my teaching comes from God or whether I speak on my own." The study reads: "Those who attempt to know God's will and do it will know intuitively that Jesus was telling the truth about himself. Have you ever listened to religious speakers and wondered if they were telling the truth? Test them: 1)Their words should agree with and not contradict the Bible; 2) their words should point to God and His will, not to themselves."
Today at our small group held in our home, the group confirmed my desire to blog the lessons learned from the daily Scripture which I am assigned in my journal and the Study which follows that particular daily reading.
I sincerely appreciate their confirmation and will continue blogging when the day's study confirms its "teachability." I had not intended to blog today. Jerry, my husband of 60 years, insisted that I blog today's decision. So be it!
I am choosing to blog as I believe it is God's will for me. What I will try to teach will be those things I need to learn myself. Writing for others what I need to learn will help me to learn. This old dog "needs to learn some important new tricks" before she passes into the Great Beyond.
I hope for your patience, and a little bit of love.
Most sincerely and with love in my heart for those who wonder about God and hope they themselves can learn about His Will and His Way! (And His Wonder!)
I will do my best for He is Worth it!
Jo in MN
Today at our small group held in our home, the group confirmed my desire to blog the lessons learned from the daily Scripture which I am assigned in my journal and the Study which follows that particular daily reading.
I sincerely appreciate their confirmation and will continue blogging when the day's study confirms its "teachability." I had not intended to blog today. Jerry, my husband of 60 years, insisted that I blog today's decision. So be it!
I am choosing to blog as I believe it is God's will for me. What I will try to teach will be those things I need to learn myself. Writing for others what I need to learn will help me to learn. This old dog "needs to learn some important new tricks" before she passes into the Great Beyond.
I hope for your patience, and a little bit of love.
Most sincerely and with love in my heart for those who wonder about God and hope they themselves can learn about His Will and His Way! (And His Wonder!)
I will do my best for He is Worth it!
Jo in MN
Monday, August 4, 2014
GOD CAN DO ANYTHING THROUGH A WILLING HEART
Yes, God can. And I am praying He will.
I am typing this with a broken little finger as the result of a recent fall. It may take me awhile to make any corrections needed to make, but if a couple slip through, so be it.
The Bible has become very important to me: the books of John and James of most recent importance. And in addition a small book called JESUS CALLING, by Sarah Young. In yesterday's reading she says as Jesus' voice, "Watch your words diligently. Words have such great power to bless or wound.
Be quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to become angry. I have trained you to pray---Help me, Holy Spirit! before you speak."
I am listening , Lord. And praying for your Holy Spirit to guide every word I write..at the risk of having to do this blog over and over if need be so that it is done perfectly according to your desire.
Amen, having been said, I must confess that I have a penchant for becoming mightily disturbed if someone implies that I have come up short in some way during a regular conversation. These actions of mine grieve me. And they have grieved me my whole life. Whether it is pride (I do hate that vice!) or its second cousin, low self-esteem, I don't really know. I just know that I have hurt many a person with my anger over hearing something that rubbed me the wrong way. Apologies don't take away the harm done to innocent people who have made innocent comments and heard an explosion of angry words come from my mouth.
I am determined to stop this behavior. And with God's help and in time, I will. I hope I see good results before I die. Whatever time I have left in this world, I am going to pray to listen well, pray to "Let it go" if I sense an offense, and prayerfully give that person the grace that God gives to me every day of my life.
And for these reasons I am going to continue to blog, because God teaches me new things every day. And I hope someday someone gets ahold of one of these blogs and reads exactly what he or she needs to know. I have wondered, somewhat concernedly, if anyone reads these words. Well, it really doesn't matter, as one of the reasons I write the blogs is because writing what I am learning helps me to REMEMBER the lessons God sets before me.
There is supposed to be a big cloud up in the internet sky of words, etc. that will float around forever. Well, I am in no hurry and have no great need to know if what God is teaching me is of any help to anyone else. I will trust and praise Him with or without that knowledge. My job is to keep my heart clean and pure by acknowledging my sins and attempting to stop doing what may hurt another.
His Grace is beautiful as is His face. I hope to pass that grace on.
If you read this, I'll see you in Heaven some day, God willing!
Jo of Minnesota!
I am typing this with a broken little finger as the result of a recent fall. It may take me awhile to make any corrections needed to make, but if a couple slip through, so be it.
The Bible has become very important to me: the books of John and James of most recent importance. And in addition a small book called JESUS CALLING, by Sarah Young. In yesterday's reading she says as Jesus' voice, "Watch your words diligently. Words have such great power to bless or wound.
Be quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to become angry. I have trained you to pray---Help me, Holy Spirit! before you speak."
I am listening , Lord. And praying for your Holy Spirit to guide every word I write..at the risk of having to do this blog over and over if need be so that it is done perfectly according to your desire.
Amen, having been said, I must confess that I have a penchant for becoming mightily disturbed if someone implies that I have come up short in some way during a regular conversation. These actions of mine grieve me. And they have grieved me my whole life. Whether it is pride (I do hate that vice!) or its second cousin, low self-esteem, I don't really know. I just know that I have hurt many a person with my anger over hearing something that rubbed me the wrong way. Apologies don't take away the harm done to innocent people who have made innocent comments and heard an explosion of angry words come from my mouth.
I am determined to stop this behavior. And with God's help and in time, I will. I hope I see good results before I die. Whatever time I have left in this world, I am going to pray to listen well, pray to "Let it go" if I sense an offense, and prayerfully give that person the grace that God gives to me every day of my life.
And for these reasons I am going to continue to blog, because God teaches me new things every day. And I hope someday someone gets ahold of one of these blogs and reads exactly what he or she needs to know. I have wondered, somewhat concernedly, if anyone reads these words. Well, it really doesn't matter, as one of the reasons I write the blogs is because writing what I am learning helps me to REMEMBER the lessons God sets before me.
There is supposed to be a big cloud up in the internet sky of words, etc. that will float around forever. Well, I am in no hurry and have no great need to know if what God is teaching me is of any help to anyone else. I will trust and praise Him with or without that knowledge. My job is to keep my heart clean and pure by acknowledging my sins and attempting to stop doing what may hurt another.
His Grace is beautiful as is His face. I hope to pass that grace on.
If you read this, I'll see you in Heaven some day, God willing!
Jo of Minnesota!
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