Occasionally, I revisit a book given to me by my publisher entitled, Finding Your Voice by Les Edgerton. The book has been helpful to me because as a relatively new writer, finding my voice has been a challenging journey. With the realization that voice is one of the most important elements in writing fiction, I am working towards developing my own voice. The unique and distinct voice of a good writer is like a signature, nobody has the same one. Your voice is like your footprint, and it is that distinct mark that can make your writing stand out and be read or drown in the sea of other writers. There have been times when after I’ve read an especially intriguing novel, I find accidentally picking up the voice of another author’s work (which has been a train wreck!). I have to use the delet key and shut out the voices from other authors’ works, and continue to strive towards finding my own voice.
However, voice is not only important for a writer. For believers, hearing the voice of God is critical. The Word commands and warns us about the importance of hearing the voice of God. Just as a writer hopes his or her voice will stand apart from the crowd, God yearns for us to listen to His voice and obey His commandments in spite of all the other voices we hear. In John 10:27, Jesus says, “My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me.” When we seek Him, we can hear His voice, and we should follow.
While I’ve never heard the audible voice of God, I can hear the voice of God in His Word. God’s Word resonates with my spirit when I am in a state of total submission to Him and His will. He already knows me, and I get to know Him intimately through
reading and meditating on His Word, as well as through consistent praying and fasting.
Obedience to His Word is one very important way that we can gauge how well we are following Him. We can’t be following Him if we aren’t obeying. We can’t obey unless we know what God expects, and what He expects is revealed to us in the Bible and through prayer. Jeremiah 7:23 gives us very direct instructions by the command, “Obey my voice, and I will be your God, and ye shall be my people: and walk ye in all
the ways that I have commanded you that it may be well with you.”
There are so many voices competing for the number one spot to have our undivided attention. Televisions, cell phones, social networks, friends, coworkers, and even spouses and children can drown out the voice of God having first place in our lives. It’s not necessarily that other voices have to be negative (some are though), but they just don’t need to be first.
Why is hearing the voice of God so important? While there are too many answers for me to deal with here, one thing that may not be obvious comes to mind. We must hear His voice for our real voice to be heard. Many of us are trying to make our mark in the world by using a voice that is not authentic. Figuratively speaking, we may be using a voice to say to the world that we are special, important, and worthy. This often leads us to do things that He hasn’t called us to do so that we can gain money, success, prominence, and/or popularity. However, if God hasn’t called us to do whatever it is, those things will never give us lasting peace. Isaiah 26:3 says, “Thou wilt keep Him in perfect peace, whose mind in stayed on thee: because he trusteth in thee.” We must keep our minds focused on him and trust Him at all costs, all the time, no exceptions.
The voice of God can quiet us in moments of despair, calm us when anxious, refresh and renew us when we’re tired, direct us when we’re lost, and hold us when we’re lonely—and so much more. We desperately need to hear The Voice, the majestic voice of our sovereign, omnipotent, omnipresent, omniscient God.
Striving to Hear His Voice With You,
MaRita
Showing posts with label God. Show all posts
Showing posts with label God. Show all posts
Thursday, July 21, 2011
Tuesday, May 17, 2011
Faith That Works
We’re not saved by works.
Nobody is perfect.
God knows my heart.
I would, but. .
How often have we heard someone say this? How often have we maybe even wrestled with thoughts like ourselves? While there may be scriptural truths in these thoughts or thoughts like these, we have to be careful not to use them to justify our unwillingness to change. We certainly shouldn’t use them to avoid change, discomfort, and/or work. Our faith should not justify inactivity in service for the Lord. Instead, our faith should be the source of all of our activity and productivity.
Since I grew up in a rural area, my siblings and I often helped our parents to plant and care for our gardens. We understood at an early age that if you didn’t plant, you didn’t get fruit and vegetables. We watched my dad till the land, laboriously breaking up the hardened soil. Then, we would go through the entire process of planting, watering, and weeding the garden, happily reaping from what we had sown.
While most of us understand this principle, especially when it comes to other things, such as our jobs, if we aren’t careful, we will justify ourselves right out of doing much of anything to mature ourselves spiritually, let alone helping anyone else along the way. We don’t want to break up that hardened soil of our hearts. Sometimes we don’t have energy or desire to do anything but satisfy our own selfish desires, which, by the way, yield no real, lasting fruit. However, our faith should be the impetus for work, not the excuse to avoid it. After all, reaping and sowing are Biblical principles that work.
Even after planting, if we didn’t water and weed the garden, the plants would die. It is no different in our spiritual lives. Our water, our life source, is Jesus, the living Word and His Word. It feeds us, quenches our thirst, and strengthens us to grow in Him.
I am convinced that our faith doesn’t work for us when we’ve allowed the cares of the world to choke us. Just like the weeds will take all the nourishment from plants if they’re not eliminated, sin, excuses, and laziness can block our access to having our faith really work for us.
In other words, our faith is the foundation. Out of our faith, we should be compelled to do. In James 2:14-26 gives us a whole commentary on faith and works. One verse that will probably be familiar to most is found is verse 20, which reads, “faith without works is dead.” Then, the scriptures refer to Abraham and his willingness to sacrifice his son Isaac. Like Rahab, who is also mentioned, Abraham’s faith and his works worked together—they couldn’t be separated.
So, while we are justified by faith (Romans 5:1), we can “then see how that by works a man is justified, and not by faith only.” If we believe in Him, then we will work for Him and to His glory. In turn, our faith will work for us and will cause us to work.
Our faith is working for us and for others, if people see Christ in us. God really does know our hearts. His Word tells us that the just lives by faith. Living by faith is something that shows, and there is evidence by your speech, actions, and lifestyle. In addition, when you live by faith, you get results. Every person in the Bible who exhibits faith is a doer-he or she acts as a result of faith. He or she gets things done!
I’m ready to get my faith to work! How about you? Do you need to get more involved? Does someone need you to visit or call them? Have you been neglected praying for something or someone? Have you accepted that call that God has on your life to do something for Him? Do you just need to buckle down and join a church? Maybe become faithful in Bible study? Whatever it is, JUST DO IT!
Exercising Faith with You,
MaRita
Nobody is perfect.
God knows my heart.
I would, but. .
How often have we heard someone say this? How often have we maybe even wrestled with thoughts like ourselves? While there may be scriptural truths in these thoughts or thoughts like these, we have to be careful not to use them to justify our unwillingness to change. We certainly shouldn’t use them to avoid change, discomfort, and/or work. Our faith should not justify inactivity in service for the Lord. Instead, our faith should be the source of all of our activity and productivity.
Since I grew up in a rural area, my siblings and I often helped our parents to plant and care for our gardens. We understood at an early age that if you didn’t plant, you didn’t get fruit and vegetables. We watched my dad till the land, laboriously breaking up the hardened soil. Then, we would go through the entire process of planting, watering, and weeding the garden, happily reaping from what we had sown.
While most of us understand this principle, especially when it comes to other things, such as our jobs, if we aren’t careful, we will justify ourselves right out of doing much of anything to mature ourselves spiritually, let alone helping anyone else along the way. We don’t want to break up that hardened soil of our hearts. Sometimes we don’t have energy or desire to do anything but satisfy our own selfish desires, which, by the way, yield no real, lasting fruit. However, our faith should be the impetus for work, not the excuse to avoid it. After all, reaping and sowing are Biblical principles that work.
Even after planting, if we didn’t water and weed the garden, the plants would die. It is no different in our spiritual lives. Our water, our life source, is Jesus, the living Word and His Word. It feeds us, quenches our thirst, and strengthens us to grow in Him.
I am convinced that our faith doesn’t work for us when we’ve allowed the cares of the world to choke us. Just like the weeds will take all the nourishment from plants if they’re not eliminated, sin, excuses, and laziness can block our access to having our faith really work for us.
In other words, our faith is the foundation. Out of our faith, we should be compelled to do. In James 2:14-26 gives us a whole commentary on faith and works. One verse that will probably be familiar to most is found is verse 20, which reads, “faith without works is dead.” Then, the scriptures refer to Abraham and his willingness to sacrifice his son Isaac. Like Rahab, who is also mentioned, Abraham’s faith and his works worked together—they couldn’t be separated.
So, while we are justified by faith (Romans 5:1), we can “then see how that by works a man is justified, and not by faith only.” If we believe in Him, then we will work for Him and to His glory. In turn, our faith will work for us and will cause us to work.
Our faith is working for us and for others, if people see Christ in us. God really does know our hearts. His Word tells us that the just lives by faith. Living by faith is something that shows, and there is evidence by your speech, actions, and lifestyle. In addition, when you live by faith, you get results. Every person in the Bible who exhibits faith is a doer-he or she acts as a result of faith. He or she gets things done!
I’m ready to get my faith to work! How about you? Do you need to get more involved? Does someone need you to visit or call them? Have you been neglected praying for something or someone? Have you accepted that call that God has on your life to do something for Him? Do you just need to buckle down and join a church? Maybe become faithful in Bible study? Whatever it is, JUST DO IT!
Exercising Faith with You,
MaRita
Monday, May 2, 2011
Cleaning the Toilet
You know how you hear a song, and for whatever reason, you just can’t seem to get the song out of your head? Well, unfortunately, I’ve had a few times when the wrong song has played like a broken record in my head, and I just couldn’t switch the off button. However, a few weeks ago I heard a Fred Hammond worship song that resonated with me in a way that surprised me because of its simplicity. The song simply says over and over again, “Lord, we love you. You are good.” Then it goes on to say, “Lord we thank you. You are good,” and “Lord, we praise you. You are good.” I am so blessed to have that song hard-wired into my brain and spirit lately.
Things have been so chaotic, unsure, and downright scary lately.
Bleak circumstances can cause us to question God if we’re not careful. Although I never voiced it, questions have swirled through my mind. Is He still here? Does He care? Is He really good?
I’m going to be real. I was cleaning the toilet (I know, I know), and I started humming the melody to the Fred Hammond song. On a side note, we have really hard water, and I have three boys—let’s just say toilet cleaning is not a pretty job in my house. Anyway, I started to sing, “Lord, I love you. You are good.” I sang it over and over again, and without warning, I felt the weight of the pressure I had been under slowly release. I still kept struggling with the toilet, but tears streamed down my face. God assured me and reminded me that He is good—even in the situations where we might think that surely God can’t be in the midst. He met me right where I was that day, and He can meet each one of us in any place, circumstance, or condition. No place is off limits for Him to meet us there.
Nahum 1:7 says, “The Lord is good, a strong hold in the day of trouble; and he knoweth them that trust in him.” The assurance that the Lord is good and we can hold onto Him and His Word in times of trouble is so comforting. He knows those of us who trust in Him. In Psalms 107:1, the psalmist says, “O give thanks unto the Lord, for he is good; for his mercy endureth for ever.” Then, on down to the eighth verse, the psalmist continues, “Oh that men would praise the Lord for his goodness.” Countless times in scripture, we are reminded of the goodness of God.
However, we have to be so mindful not to just praise God just over the blessings He gives to us. Our praise and worship has to be grounded out of our love for Him and for His goodness. Regardless of what bad or difficult situation we may find ourselves in, God is still good.
Whether you’re scrubbing a dirty toilet, literally or figuratively, God is good. He loves you. He cares. He’s sovereign. He’s in control, no matter what it looks like. Psalms 31:19 says, “Oh how great is thy goodness, which thou hast laid up for them that fear thee; which thou hast wrought for them that trust in thee before the sons of men!” I can’t even begin to imagine what God has in store for those who give Him reverence, those who trust in Him. He pours His goodness into us when we trust in Him. We know He’s done it, not always by the situation changing, but by how we are changed.
God’s peace, joy, love and kindness and other fruits of the Spirit strengthen and bless others as well as ourselves when we worship Him with all of our hearts. It doesn’t matter where we are, how we feel, or what is or isn’t going well, God is good. I’m so thankful that I serve a good God who never changes, and I’m praying that you worship Him today and always for His goodness, love and mercy towards us.
Blessings and Love,
MaRita
Things have been so chaotic, unsure, and downright scary lately.
Bleak circumstances can cause us to question God if we’re not careful. Although I never voiced it, questions have swirled through my mind. Is He still here? Does He care? Is He really good?
I’m going to be real. I was cleaning the toilet (I know, I know), and I started humming the melody to the Fred Hammond song. On a side note, we have really hard water, and I have three boys—let’s just say toilet cleaning is not a pretty job in my house. Anyway, I started to sing, “Lord, I love you. You are good.” I sang it over and over again, and without warning, I felt the weight of the pressure I had been under slowly release. I still kept struggling with the toilet, but tears streamed down my face. God assured me and reminded me that He is good—even in the situations where we might think that surely God can’t be in the midst. He met me right where I was that day, and He can meet each one of us in any place, circumstance, or condition. No place is off limits for Him to meet us there.
Nahum 1:7 says, “The Lord is good, a strong hold in the day of trouble; and he knoweth them that trust in him.” The assurance that the Lord is good and we can hold onto Him and His Word in times of trouble is so comforting. He knows those of us who trust in Him. In Psalms 107:1, the psalmist says, “O give thanks unto the Lord, for he is good; for his mercy endureth for ever.” Then, on down to the eighth verse, the psalmist continues, “Oh that men would praise the Lord for his goodness.” Countless times in scripture, we are reminded of the goodness of God.
However, we have to be so mindful not to just praise God just over the blessings He gives to us. Our praise and worship has to be grounded out of our love for Him and for His goodness. Regardless of what bad or difficult situation we may find ourselves in, God is still good.
Whether you’re scrubbing a dirty toilet, literally or figuratively, God is good. He loves you. He cares. He’s sovereign. He’s in control, no matter what it looks like. Psalms 31:19 says, “Oh how great is thy goodness, which thou hast laid up for them that fear thee; which thou hast wrought for them that trust in thee before the sons of men!” I can’t even begin to imagine what God has in store for those who give Him reverence, those who trust in Him. He pours His goodness into us when we trust in Him. We know He’s done it, not always by the situation changing, but by how we are changed.
God’s peace, joy, love and kindness and other fruits of the Spirit strengthen and bless others as well as ourselves when we worship Him with all of our hearts. It doesn’t matter where we are, how we feel, or what is or isn’t going well, God is good. I’m so thankful that I serve a good God who never changes, and I’m praying that you worship Him today and always for His goodness, love and mercy towards us.
Blessings and Love,
MaRita
Tuesday, November 2, 2010
Anointed to Write--Right?
The anointing is a word that many church folks use a little too freely. It’s almost become an ‘in’ word to use, if there’s such a thing. It seems that everybody calls somebody anointed to do this or that. Sadly, gifts and talents are often confused with a person being anointed to do something. Let’s be real. If all the people that say they’re anointed were really operating under and in it, this would be a changed society. While I don’t claim to understand all that the anointing entails, I do know that it is a crucial component to effective ministry and changed hearts and lives always follow those who operate under God’s anointing.
While doing some studying on anointing oil and how it was used by Moses to anoint Aaron as the first High Priest of Israel (Exodus 29:7), I also learned that the oil was used to dedicate all the priests. The oil was used as an outward display of God’s power and Spirit residing in a person. Miracles, supernatural power and strength came as a result of God’s anointing resting upon a person.
There is no better example of the anointing than “[H]how God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Ghost and with power; who went about doing good, and healing all that were oppressed of the devil; for God was with him” (Acts 10:38). However, scripture also has numerous examples of everyday people who were used supernaturally by God to transform lives. Whether it’s Abraham, Moses, Joshua or Elijah in the Old Testament or Paul, John, Timothy, or Matthew in the New Testament (just to name a few), God’s Word is packed with evidence of how God’s anointing empowers and equips.
As Christian fiction writers, it is our responsibility to position ourselves so that God can use us. Positioning ourselves means that we love God first. We study God’s Word and pray about everything. We realize that we all make mistakes, but through Him, we can endure and overcome obstacles, temptation, and adversity. Our motives for writing must not be tainted by selfishness of any kind. Otherwise, it’s impossible be an anointed writer. The anointing implies that we are under God’s complete control. Just like the ointment that flowed down Aaron’s beard and garments, the anointing covers and saturates us with His glory. When we write under His anointing, He enables us to do what we are unable to do within ourselves. Furthermore, anointed writers are focused on the mission to serve God and His people.
I am keenly aware of how it feels to be writing under the power of the Holy Spirit and when I’m not. There are times when my tears spill onto the keyboard and my fingers won’t move fast enough on the keys to get out what I know the Spirit of the Lord has given me. Other times, there is a boldness that overtakes me, giving me the courage to say what is right, something in my flesh I would be too fearful to write. Yet, there are other times when the calm and peaceful Holy Spirit gently guides me to reassure and console with a message directed by Him. I must add that just because a person is saying, doing, and yes, even writing the “right” things, it doesn’t mean it’s anointed. I know, because just as I’ve experienced writing under the anointing, I have written the ‘right’ thing without the anointing. The result is that while it might be entertaining or possibly intellectually stimulating, it is likely that there will be no catalyst for change, no real and lasting effectiveness.
Of course, the obstacles to operate under God’s anointing are real. For example, when I think about what others want to read and what will sell books, I am quenching the Spirit, stifling the possibility of writing under the anointing. As a result, I’m also limiting my possibilities, my peace, my joy, etc., and robbing someone else of the potential of being delivered and set free from whatever has them bound. The anointing really does destroy the yoke and set the captives free. God’s anointing is pure; no hidden motives or agendas lurk just beneath the surface. The anointing is productive and cuts through the mess and gives you immediate, unrestricted access to the throne room, the dwelling place of the most high.
It doesn’t matter if you’re a writer, teacher, preacher, or brick layer, God desires each of us to build up the kingdom of heaven by operating under His anointing, His total and complete control. Whatever material gains a person may get by using his or her own plan, direction and discretion, will be temporary. As cliché as it sounds, it’s what we do for Christ, not ourselves, that will last.
On one final note, I recently heard a message by Pastor Creflo Dollar that has remained with me. I can’t quote him exactly, but he said that it is impossible for the anointing to be present where love is not. Our love for God and for one another has to be present. Recently, I met a very popular gospel singer, and I was shocked by how rude she was. She had done a session on singing under the anointing. Her demeanor differed dramatically from what she had professed onstage during my brief encounter with her. Yes, she could’ve been having a bad day, but we always have to be mindful that we’re representing Christ. There is just no way someone can operate under the anointing of God’s Holy Spirit and lack love.
We can’t do anything, including writing for Him, without our total surrender and dependence on Him. He is the One who enables us to love, and He is the One who enables us to write under the anointing. Why not examine yourselves with me this week? Let’s all make sure that we are really anointed to write or to do whatever it is that He has called us to do.
Blessings and Love,
MaRita
While doing some studying on anointing oil and how it was used by Moses to anoint Aaron as the first High Priest of Israel (Exodus 29:7), I also learned that the oil was used to dedicate all the priests. The oil was used as an outward display of God’s power and Spirit residing in a person. Miracles, supernatural power and strength came as a result of God’s anointing resting upon a person.
There is no better example of the anointing than “[H]how God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Ghost and with power; who went about doing good, and healing all that were oppressed of the devil; for God was with him” (Acts 10:38). However, scripture also has numerous examples of everyday people who were used supernaturally by God to transform lives. Whether it’s Abraham, Moses, Joshua or Elijah in the Old Testament or Paul, John, Timothy, or Matthew in the New Testament (just to name a few), God’s Word is packed with evidence of how God’s anointing empowers and equips.
As Christian fiction writers, it is our responsibility to position ourselves so that God can use us. Positioning ourselves means that we love God first. We study God’s Word and pray about everything. We realize that we all make mistakes, but through Him, we can endure and overcome obstacles, temptation, and adversity. Our motives for writing must not be tainted by selfishness of any kind. Otherwise, it’s impossible be an anointed writer. The anointing implies that we are under God’s complete control. Just like the ointment that flowed down Aaron’s beard and garments, the anointing covers and saturates us with His glory. When we write under His anointing, He enables us to do what we are unable to do within ourselves. Furthermore, anointed writers are focused on the mission to serve God and His people.
I am keenly aware of how it feels to be writing under the power of the Holy Spirit and when I’m not. There are times when my tears spill onto the keyboard and my fingers won’t move fast enough on the keys to get out what I know the Spirit of the Lord has given me. Other times, there is a boldness that overtakes me, giving me the courage to say what is right, something in my flesh I would be too fearful to write. Yet, there are other times when the calm and peaceful Holy Spirit gently guides me to reassure and console with a message directed by Him. I must add that just because a person is saying, doing, and yes, even writing the “right” things, it doesn’t mean it’s anointed. I know, because just as I’ve experienced writing under the anointing, I have written the ‘right’ thing without the anointing. The result is that while it might be entertaining or possibly intellectually stimulating, it is likely that there will be no catalyst for change, no real and lasting effectiveness.
Of course, the obstacles to operate under God’s anointing are real. For example, when I think about what others want to read and what will sell books, I am quenching the Spirit, stifling the possibility of writing under the anointing. As a result, I’m also limiting my possibilities, my peace, my joy, etc., and robbing someone else of the potential of being delivered and set free from whatever has them bound. The anointing really does destroy the yoke and set the captives free. God’s anointing is pure; no hidden motives or agendas lurk just beneath the surface. The anointing is productive and cuts through the mess and gives you immediate, unrestricted access to the throne room, the dwelling place of the most high.
It doesn’t matter if you’re a writer, teacher, preacher, or brick layer, God desires each of us to build up the kingdom of heaven by operating under His anointing, His total and complete control. Whatever material gains a person may get by using his or her own plan, direction and discretion, will be temporary. As cliché as it sounds, it’s what we do for Christ, not ourselves, that will last.
On one final note, I recently heard a message by Pastor Creflo Dollar that has remained with me. I can’t quote him exactly, but he said that it is impossible for the anointing to be present where love is not. Our love for God and for one another has to be present. Recently, I met a very popular gospel singer, and I was shocked by how rude she was. She had done a session on singing under the anointing. Her demeanor differed dramatically from what she had professed onstage during my brief encounter with her. Yes, she could’ve been having a bad day, but we always have to be mindful that we’re representing Christ. There is just no way someone can operate under the anointing of God’s Holy Spirit and lack love.
We can’t do anything, including writing for Him, without our total surrender and dependence on Him. He is the One who enables us to love, and He is the One who enables us to write under the anointing. Why not examine yourselves with me this week? Let’s all make sure that we are really anointed to write or to do whatever it is that He has called us to do.
Blessings and Love,
MaRita
Saturday, October 16, 2010
Problems: Opportunities in Work Clothes
While running errands, I passed by a small unassuming church, and in the middle of the impeccably manicured lawn, the church message board read: “Problems are opportunities in work clothes.” Honestly, my thoughts were, “Yeah, right.” “Whatever.” Still, the little message has been ringing in my head, especially since lately I’ve had an onslaught of “opportunities in work clothes.”
Whether we like it or not, problems and obstacles have a way of holding a mirror up to ourselves and revealing our real selves to us, blemishes and all. When we aren’t where we need to be in Christ and there are no real problems or obstacles in our lives, we can fool ourselves into thinking that we are the reason for any good things that have happened to us. We can attribute our success to our work ethic, great mind, or wonderful connections. On the other hand, when adversity strikes this type of Christian, they can be quick to ask God, “How could you let this happen to me?” “Why me, God?” Honestly, I know this Christian because I have fallen into this bad behavior and thinking many times. I’ve experienced the meltdowns when things are looking hopeless and bleak. Like Rueben in the Bible, I have had bouts of being “unstable as water” (Gen. 49:4). No matter what worldly accomplishments and achievements a person makes, a Christian cannot excel spiritually and be truly productive with character that is marred with instability.
Conversely, when you encounter a Christian who is truly anchored in the Lord and has overcome adversity with the realization that God is their only source, traces of pride and arrogance are never detected. I Corinthians 15:8 says, “be ye stedfast, unmoveable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, forasmuch as ye know your labour is not in vain in the Lord.” This verse is small but packed full of ammunition for the believer to fight problems and overcome obstacles.
We must be steadfast and unmovable. In a world that changes opinions, beliefs, and positions constantly, believers are commanded to be consistent and unchanging. There is no greater challenge for us to show how sovereign and good God is than to remain steadfast and unmovable in the face of adversity. We have to rely on God as our source in all matters. We must choose to exercise our faith and trust Him at all costs. This means that we are guaranteed to look unreasonable and foolish to the world. Still, we are called to be consistent and unchanged by relying on Him. It can’t be done apart from Him.
Whatever work we do, our vision for ourselves must always be in line with what God’s work is for us to do. With that God-given and inspired perspective, problems really can become opportunities for us to show others who God is and what He can do through faith. We have to use problems and adversity as a stepping stone to perfect us and mold us into being more like Him. If we resist, kick and scream at the problems, we will remain stagnant. We cannot produce unless we are connected to Jesus and His living Word. I can attest that His Word has literally breathed newness into so many bad situations. Like a breath of fresh air, His Word cleanses, restores, and renews.
Even while typing this, I have tears rolling down my cheeks because too often I haven’t trusted Him with problems. However, there is not one single time when I have trusted Him that He has let me down. Not one. God is faithful. I don’t know who this is for, but I know that God wants you to trust Him. Believe that He is sovereign and that He reigns forever. Let go of it and truly let Him take control. Your problems are only an indication of how God can demonstrate His greatness in your life.
Trusting Him with You,
MaRita
Whether we like it or not, problems and obstacles have a way of holding a mirror up to ourselves and revealing our real selves to us, blemishes and all. When we aren’t where we need to be in Christ and there are no real problems or obstacles in our lives, we can fool ourselves into thinking that we are the reason for any good things that have happened to us. We can attribute our success to our work ethic, great mind, or wonderful connections. On the other hand, when adversity strikes this type of Christian, they can be quick to ask God, “How could you let this happen to me?” “Why me, God?” Honestly, I know this Christian because I have fallen into this bad behavior and thinking many times. I’ve experienced the meltdowns when things are looking hopeless and bleak. Like Rueben in the Bible, I have had bouts of being “unstable as water” (Gen. 49:4). No matter what worldly accomplishments and achievements a person makes, a Christian cannot excel spiritually and be truly productive with character that is marred with instability.
Conversely, when you encounter a Christian who is truly anchored in the Lord and has overcome adversity with the realization that God is their only source, traces of pride and arrogance are never detected. I Corinthians 15:8 says, “be ye stedfast, unmoveable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, forasmuch as ye know your labour is not in vain in the Lord.” This verse is small but packed full of ammunition for the believer to fight problems and overcome obstacles.
We must be steadfast and unmovable. In a world that changes opinions, beliefs, and positions constantly, believers are commanded to be consistent and unchanging. There is no greater challenge for us to show how sovereign and good God is than to remain steadfast and unmovable in the face of adversity. We have to rely on God as our source in all matters. We must choose to exercise our faith and trust Him at all costs. This means that we are guaranteed to look unreasonable and foolish to the world. Still, we are called to be consistent and unchanged by relying on Him. It can’t be done apart from Him.
Whatever work we do, our vision for ourselves must always be in line with what God’s work is for us to do. With that God-given and inspired perspective, problems really can become opportunities for us to show others who God is and what He can do through faith. We have to use problems and adversity as a stepping stone to perfect us and mold us into being more like Him. If we resist, kick and scream at the problems, we will remain stagnant. We cannot produce unless we are connected to Jesus and His living Word. I can attest that His Word has literally breathed newness into so many bad situations. Like a breath of fresh air, His Word cleanses, restores, and renews.
Even while typing this, I have tears rolling down my cheeks because too often I haven’t trusted Him with problems. However, there is not one single time when I have trusted Him that He has let me down. Not one. God is faithful. I don’t know who this is for, but I know that God wants you to trust Him. Believe that He is sovereign and that He reigns forever. Let go of it and truly let Him take control. Your problems are only an indication of how God can demonstrate His greatness in your life.
Trusting Him with You,
MaRita
Thursday, June 24, 2010
Freedom to Live
On the Fourth of July, we celebrate our independence and Declaration of Independence from Great Britain. America’s freedom means many things but one thing is sure, we no longer live under anyone else’s rule. We are free to live under our own laws and ideals, and we are willing and able to protect ourselves against any others who may threaten our safety or freedom.
Spiritually, all of us have been offered a freedom that far surpasses that of the United States of America. Christ offers us spiritual freedom sin, which ultimately offers us eternal life with Him. We no longer have to be bound by sin. Galatians 5:1 explains, “Stand fast therefore in the liberty wherewith Christ hath made us free, and be not entangled again with the yoke of bondage.”
Can you imagine the US going back to Britain to be under their rule and authority? It just wouldn’t make sense now that we’re free. Similarly, once we are saved and freed from sin by our faith in Christ and by His grace, it would be unimaginable to go back to a life living under the bondage of sin. Yet, many are lured back into ungodly behavior, and they are fooled into believing that when they are free to do whatever they want, this is freedom.
However, people thinking that they’re free when they’re living lives that are not submitted to Christ is a very prevalent deception today. In fact, when we live a life free to do whatever we want in the flesh, we become slaves to our desires. Without a life fully submitted to Christ, people are driven by the desire for material things, greed, power, position, sexual immorality, and a host of other ungodly behaviors.
Because of Christ, as believers we are able to live a life of freedom. We can live, reigning victoriously over sin. Yes, we can! Through Christ’s perfect sacrifice, we have access to have the chains and bondage of sin broken. None of this is accomplished by us—it’s all by Him. In exchange for our total dependence on Him, we are given freedom from the penalty of sin and death. We have to make the right choice though.
Paul goes on to explain to the Galatians in 5:4 that “whosoever of you are justified by the law; ye are fallen from grace. For we through the Spirit wait for the hope of righteousness by faith.” In other words, we cannot keep certain points of the law and think that we are gaining favor or freedom by doing these things. If we do think that we can do it in ourselves then we must obey all of the law, not just some. This attitude ultimately separates us from God.
Galatians 5:6 goes on to say that “For in Jesus Christ neither circumcision availeth any thing, nor uncircumcision; but faith which worketh by love.” I’ve had the opportunity to meet so many people who think that because they know scripture, go to church and/or Bible study, or because they pray, they have earned their ‘brownie points’ with God. They are often deceived into thinking that because God can forgive them, they are free to sin. My heart grieves for anyone in this state of mind and this state in life. As my note says in my Bible, “Freedom to sin is no freedom at all, because it enslaves you to Satan, others, or your own evil desires.” Again, we are free from the bondage of sin to live unselfishly, to serve Christ and others, and to bring glory and honor to the One who freed us.
As Galatians instructs us, “If we live in the Spirit, let us also walk in the Spirit.” The Holy Spirit should be evident in our lives by the fruit of the Spirit. Those who are truly free the bondage of sin are not difficult to identify. They are those that display the fruit of the Spirit. They show love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, meekness, and temperance (Galatians 5:22-23).
I am praying a special prayer for anyone who may be bound and entangled by sin. I pray that the Lord helps you to stand firm and sure in His perfect liberty. Free yourself from the chains and weight of sin. Trust Him to work it out. His yoke is easy and His burden is light.
Blessings and Love,
MaRita
Spiritually, all of us have been offered a freedom that far surpasses that of the United States of America. Christ offers us spiritual freedom sin, which ultimately offers us eternal life with Him. We no longer have to be bound by sin. Galatians 5:1 explains, “Stand fast therefore in the liberty wherewith Christ hath made us free, and be not entangled again with the yoke of bondage.”
Can you imagine the US going back to Britain to be under their rule and authority? It just wouldn’t make sense now that we’re free. Similarly, once we are saved and freed from sin by our faith in Christ and by His grace, it would be unimaginable to go back to a life living under the bondage of sin. Yet, many are lured back into ungodly behavior, and they are fooled into believing that when they are free to do whatever they want, this is freedom.
However, people thinking that they’re free when they’re living lives that are not submitted to Christ is a very prevalent deception today. In fact, when we live a life free to do whatever we want in the flesh, we become slaves to our desires. Without a life fully submitted to Christ, people are driven by the desire for material things, greed, power, position, sexual immorality, and a host of other ungodly behaviors.
Because of Christ, as believers we are able to live a life of freedom. We can live, reigning victoriously over sin. Yes, we can! Through Christ’s perfect sacrifice, we have access to have the chains and bondage of sin broken. None of this is accomplished by us—it’s all by Him. In exchange for our total dependence on Him, we are given freedom from the penalty of sin and death. We have to make the right choice though.
Paul goes on to explain to the Galatians in 5:4 that “whosoever of you are justified by the law; ye are fallen from grace. For we through the Spirit wait for the hope of righteousness by faith.” In other words, we cannot keep certain points of the law and think that we are gaining favor or freedom by doing these things. If we do think that we can do it in ourselves then we must obey all of the law, not just some. This attitude ultimately separates us from God.
Galatians 5:6 goes on to say that “For in Jesus Christ neither circumcision availeth any thing, nor uncircumcision; but faith which worketh by love.” I’ve had the opportunity to meet so many people who think that because they know scripture, go to church and/or Bible study, or because they pray, they have earned their ‘brownie points’ with God. They are often deceived into thinking that because God can forgive them, they are free to sin. My heart grieves for anyone in this state of mind and this state in life. As my note says in my Bible, “Freedom to sin is no freedom at all, because it enslaves you to Satan, others, or your own evil desires.” Again, we are free from the bondage of sin to live unselfishly, to serve Christ and others, and to bring glory and honor to the One who freed us.
As Galatians instructs us, “If we live in the Spirit, let us also walk in the Spirit.” The Holy Spirit should be evident in our lives by the fruit of the Spirit. Those who are truly free the bondage of sin are not difficult to identify. They are those that display the fruit of the Spirit. They show love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, meekness, and temperance (Galatians 5:22-23).
I am praying a special prayer for anyone who may be bound and entangled by sin. I pray that the Lord helps you to stand firm and sure in His perfect liberty. Free yourself from the chains and weight of sin. Trust Him to work it out. His yoke is easy and His burden is light.
Blessings and Love,
MaRita
Wednesday, June 2, 2010
Craving Comfort?
When my two oldest sons were around the ages of four and five, I had the pleasure of witnessing an exchange that will always make me smile. We had a nice collection of Beanie Babies that my youngest son loved all—with the exception of the Beanie that was a ghost. My older son kept prodding him, trying to get him to hold the ghost Beanie. My younger son started crying, clearly scared. “No! Stop, I don’t want it.” I started to step in, but without missing a beat, my older son said, “It’s the Holy Ghost!” My younger son’s face brightened and he hugged the little ghost Beanie with all of his might, instantly comforted by the revelation.
As believers, we have 24-7 access to divine comfort, guidance, and peace, but sometimes I wonder how many of us tap into this power that is given to us. Like my son, do we fear and doubt, not realizing the power and peace we have in the Holy Ghost?
Jesus instructs in John 14:15, “If ye love me, keep my commandments.” We have to love Him first and more than anything. Out of our love for Him, we will obey His Word. We cannot love Him and remain in a state of obedience. Unfortunately, many of us get stuck right here. We choose to disobey. When we have accepted Jesus as our personal savior, sin no longer has dominion over us. If we sin, we sin willfully. God’s presence within us empowers us to reign over sin, but we must choose to obey. When you love Christ, your commitment and actions will show it. You will obey—this is a crucial step.
Jesus then tells us in John 14:16, “And I will pray the Father, and he shall give you another Comforter, that he may abide with you forever; Even the Spirit of truth; whom the world cannot receive, because it seeth him not, neither knoweth him: for he dwelleth with you, and shall be in you. I will not leave you comfortless: I will come to you.” No matter what circumstance or obstacle we face, Jesus is letting us know that we are not alone. We have the Holy Spirit to comfort us and He will never leave us. What better assurance do we have in His Word and His Spirit that will never leave us?
Jesus says that the world won’t recognize the Holy Spirit. The world can’t because the world doesn’t love Him and His Word and certainly doesn’t keep His commandments. God’s Holy Spirit is reserved for believers who love God and obey His Word.
In John 14:26, Jesus says, “But the Comforter, which is the Holy Ghost, whom the Father will send in my name, he shall teach you all things, and bring all things to your remembrance, whatsoever I have said to you. Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you, not as the world giveth . . . Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid.” At times, we struggle with things, like fear, doubt, depression, and insecurity because we fail to really love, obey, and trust Him with everything and all of us.
I do have to mention that you can’t obey Him if you don’t know His Word. Things can’t be brought to our remembrance if they aren’t there. Our priority in life has to be growing and nurturing our relationship with Christ. Studying the Word, praying, attending church, and living an obedient life should be the basic foundation for all believers.
The life of a believer is a submitted life to Christ. The evidence of the Holy Spirit in a believer’s life is paramount. No believer can do it without the Spirit of God. Reigning victoriously over sin is not mind over matter—it’s making a choice to submit to the Lord and His Word. When we make this choice, we have the precious gift of God’s Holy Spirit. When or if we sin, we will repent quickly because the indwelling of the Holy Spirit will convict us. When we are filled with the Holy Spirit, we have the peace of God. This peace does not mean that we don’t have obstacles or trials, but it does mean that our lives are not filled with stress, depression, doubt and worry. We have comfort and consolation that is beyond any temporary satisfaction that the world might offer.
I’m praying that today, if you haven’t allowed God’s Holy Spirit to comfort you, that you would receive His love, power, direction, protection, grace, and peace.
Blessings and Love,
MaRita
As believers, we have 24-7 access to divine comfort, guidance, and peace, but sometimes I wonder how many of us tap into this power that is given to us. Like my son, do we fear and doubt, not realizing the power and peace we have in the Holy Ghost?
Jesus instructs in John 14:15, “If ye love me, keep my commandments.” We have to love Him first and more than anything. Out of our love for Him, we will obey His Word. We cannot love Him and remain in a state of obedience. Unfortunately, many of us get stuck right here. We choose to disobey. When we have accepted Jesus as our personal savior, sin no longer has dominion over us. If we sin, we sin willfully. God’s presence within us empowers us to reign over sin, but we must choose to obey. When you love Christ, your commitment and actions will show it. You will obey—this is a crucial step.
Jesus then tells us in John 14:16, “And I will pray the Father, and he shall give you another Comforter, that he may abide with you forever; Even the Spirit of truth; whom the world cannot receive, because it seeth him not, neither knoweth him: for he dwelleth with you, and shall be in you. I will not leave you comfortless: I will come to you.” No matter what circumstance or obstacle we face, Jesus is letting us know that we are not alone. We have the Holy Spirit to comfort us and He will never leave us. What better assurance do we have in His Word and His Spirit that will never leave us?
Jesus says that the world won’t recognize the Holy Spirit. The world can’t because the world doesn’t love Him and His Word and certainly doesn’t keep His commandments. God’s Holy Spirit is reserved for believers who love God and obey His Word.
In John 14:26, Jesus says, “But the Comforter, which is the Holy Ghost, whom the Father will send in my name, he shall teach you all things, and bring all things to your remembrance, whatsoever I have said to you. Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you, not as the world giveth . . . Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid.” At times, we struggle with things, like fear, doubt, depression, and insecurity because we fail to really love, obey, and trust Him with everything and all of us.
I do have to mention that you can’t obey Him if you don’t know His Word. Things can’t be brought to our remembrance if they aren’t there. Our priority in life has to be growing and nurturing our relationship with Christ. Studying the Word, praying, attending church, and living an obedient life should be the basic foundation for all believers.
The life of a believer is a submitted life to Christ. The evidence of the Holy Spirit in a believer’s life is paramount. No believer can do it without the Spirit of God. Reigning victoriously over sin is not mind over matter—it’s making a choice to submit to the Lord and His Word. When we make this choice, we have the precious gift of God’s Holy Spirit. When or if we sin, we will repent quickly because the indwelling of the Holy Spirit will convict us. When we are filled with the Holy Spirit, we have the peace of God. This peace does not mean that we don’t have obstacles or trials, but it does mean that our lives are not filled with stress, depression, doubt and worry. We have comfort and consolation that is beyond any temporary satisfaction that the world might offer.
I’m praying that today, if you haven’t allowed God’s Holy Spirit to comfort you, that you would receive His love, power, direction, protection, grace, and peace.
Blessings and Love,
MaRita
Monday, May 10, 2010
Sins of the Father
Recently, I met a young man who suffered unspeakable abuse at the hands of his mother as a baby. Apparently, his drug addicted father was neglectful and selfish. With his mother serving a jail sentence for the abuse she had inflicted upon him, he was left to care for himself when his grandparents passed. Living on his own, he has had a hard life and as a result of bad choices, has even spent time in jail. By any standards, this person, through no fault of his own, was born into a bad set of circumstances. The sins of his parents caused him monumental pain and suffering, but again, through no fault of his own.
What do you do when you were born into a family that doesn’t care and love you the way that God intended? How do you keep from repeating the cycle of abuse, addiction, and neglect when you’ve seen nothing but that all of your life? This young man feels that he has been punished all of his life for the choices of his parents, but I also listened closely as he spoke. He also seemed to suggest that those terrible circumstances were justification for his present poor choices and any future bad ones that he would make.
The book of Ezekiel gives a good example of this type of thinking. The people of Judah knew that the destruction of Jerusalem was because of the sins of their ancestors. As a result, they did not take responsibility for their own sins. They felt justified to sin. The prophet Ezekiel informs the people that each person is responsible for his or her own sins. He tells them, “the soul that sinneth, it shall die. (Ezekiel 18:4).” In the past, you would bear the sins of the father. However, Ezekiel tells them, “doth not the son bear the iniquity of the father? When the son hath done that which is lawful and right, and hath kept all my statutes, and hath done them, he shall surely live.” Because of God’s grace, He would send the Messiah, His Son, to restore man back to God. No longer does the son have to bear the sins of the father—each person is accountable for his own sin.
Without a doubt, our family’s influence can be very powerful, but Ezekiel reminds us that, regardless of what mistakes have plagued a family, each person will be accountable for the choices that he or she makes. He says, “The son shall not bear the iniquity of the father, neither shall the father bear the iniquity of the son. . . But if the wicked will turn from all his sins that he hath committed, and keep all my [God’s] statutes, and do that which is lawful and right, he shall surely live, he shall not die” (Ezekiel 18:20-21).
While some of us have had to suffer consequences from the sins of our family or others, we are not bound or punished by God because of them. We cannot use the sins of other’s to excuse our own sin. Again, we each have to accept responsibility for our present and future choices. My parents would say, “When you know better, do better.” Don’t allow the past mistakes of others or your past mistakes cause you to justify or wallow in sin.
Conversely, some people of Judah thought because their ancestors were blessed and favored by God that this also excused them of having to do right. I know some people think that because their mother, father, grandmother, wife, etc. is saved and praying for them, that this will cover them and their sins. This is equally wrong. You have to live a righteous life your self; no one can do it for you. You need to be saved and live a holy life, separated from sin. When and if you do sin, you need to be quick to repent. In other words, go and sin no more.
There is an escape if you’ve suffered unjustly s a result of someone else’s sin. You have to choose to break the bondage of sin in your own life by accepting Jesus Christ as your personal savior. If there is no one else saved in your family but you, you can be the person in your family to start a new lineage of faithful believers. Then, you must allow God’s Holy Spirit to empower you to live a victorious life. Read His Word daily, always praying and meditating on His Word. Get involved and committed to a good solid Bible-believing church. Surround yourself with saved, spirit-filled believers, who will positively speak words of encouragement in your life.
When negative thoughts try to overcome you, choke them out with the Word of God and prayer. There is no condemnation in Him, but there is hope, joy, love and peace. As the Word says, those who hunger and thirst shall be filled.
I am praying a special prayer for those who feel bound because they have had to live with the consequences of another person’s sins. I am praying that the Lord will comfort you and empower you with His Holy Spirit. I pray that the Lord will remove any guilt, pain, anger, shame, and or bitterness from your heart and fill it with joy, love, peace, and forgiveness. You are not alone.
Blessings and Love,
MaRita
www.MaRitaTeague.blogspot.com
Join FB Group Abiding in the Vine
www.MaRitaTeague.net
What do you do when you were born into a family that doesn’t care and love you the way that God intended? How do you keep from repeating the cycle of abuse, addiction, and neglect when you’ve seen nothing but that all of your life? This young man feels that he has been punished all of his life for the choices of his parents, but I also listened closely as he spoke. He also seemed to suggest that those terrible circumstances were justification for his present poor choices and any future bad ones that he would make.
The book of Ezekiel gives a good example of this type of thinking. The people of Judah knew that the destruction of Jerusalem was because of the sins of their ancestors. As a result, they did not take responsibility for their own sins. They felt justified to sin. The prophet Ezekiel informs the people that each person is responsible for his or her own sins. He tells them, “the soul that sinneth, it shall die. (Ezekiel 18:4).” In the past, you would bear the sins of the father. However, Ezekiel tells them, “doth not the son bear the iniquity of the father? When the son hath done that which is lawful and right, and hath kept all my statutes, and hath done them, he shall surely live.” Because of God’s grace, He would send the Messiah, His Son, to restore man back to God. No longer does the son have to bear the sins of the father—each person is accountable for his own sin.
Without a doubt, our family’s influence can be very powerful, but Ezekiel reminds us that, regardless of what mistakes have plagued a family, each person will be accountable for the choices that he or she makes. He says, “The son shall not bear the iniquity of the father, neither shall the father bear the iniquity of the son. . . But if the wicked will turn from all his sins that he hath committed, and keep all my [God’s] statutes, and do that which is lawful and right, he shall surely live, he shall not die” (Ezekiel 18:20-21).
While some of us have had to suffer consequences from the sins of our family or others, we are not bound or punished by God because of them. We cannot use the sins of other’s to excuse our own sin. Again, we each have to accept responsibility for our present and future choices. My parents would say, “When you know better, do better.” Don’t allow the past mistakes of others or your past mistakes cause you to justify or wallow in sin.
Conversely, some people of Judah thought because their ancestors were blessed and favored by God that this also excused them of having to do right. I know some people think that because their mother, father, grandmother, wife, etc. is saved and praying for them, that this will cover them and their sins. This is equally wrong. You have to live a righteous life your self; no one can do it for you. You need to be saved and live a holy life, separated from sin. When and if you do sin, you need to be quick to repent. In other words, go and sin no more.
There is an escape if you’ve suffered unjustly s a result of someone else’s sin. You have to choose to break the bondage of sin in your own life by accepting Jesus Christ as your personal savior. If there is no one else saved in your family but you, you can be the person in your family to start a new lineage of faithful believers. Then, you must allow God’s Holy Spirit to empower you to live a victorious life. Read His Word daily, always praying and meditating on His Word. Get involved and committed to a good solid Bible-believing church. Surround yourself with saved, spirit-filled believers, who will positively speak words of encouragement in your life.
When negative thoughts try to overcome you, choke them out with the Word of God and prayer. There is no condemnation in Him, but there is hope, joy, love and peace. As the Word says, those who hunger and thirst shall be filled.
I am praying a special prayer for those who feel bound because they have had to live with the consequences of another person’s sins. I am praying that the Lord will comfort you and empower you with His Holy Spirit. I pray that the Lord will remove any guilt, pain, anger, shame, and or bitterness from your heart and fill it with joy, love, peace, and forgiveness. You are not alone.
Blessings and Love,
MaRita
www.MaRitaTeague.blogspot.com
Join FB Group Abiding in the Vine
www.MaRitaTeague.net
Thursday, April 15, 2010
What Will You Choose?
The weight of making decisions lately had been pressing me, and to be blunt, I had been feeling overwhelmed. When I stepped back though, I realized that it was only because I wasn’t taking the decisions to the one who knows all the answers.
Most all of us are bombarded on a daily basis with a host of choices, both big and small, to make but God has been showing me that we need to carefully make the right choices in life in all matters. The decisions that we have to make, however, should not be made directed by our emotions, by what others will approve of, or by the world’s standards. Our standard and base for decision-making must be grounded in God’s Word. When we take the decisions that we have to make to Him and His Word, we assured that we will always do the right thing.
I remember being at a crossroad in my life many years ago. I didn’t want to be single, but I knew that I couldn’t serve God and settle for less than what He wanted for me. I had to decide whether I’d let my fear of being lonely force me to make ungodly decisions or to trust Him. I remember clearly being knelt by the side of my bed in my small apartment crying before the Lord. A vision of years of loneliness unfolded before my eyes, and I sobbed. Yet, during my prayer the Holy Spirit calmed me and the decision was again before me. Are you going to trust me? That night I decided that I would serve and obey the Lord, no matter what. While I didn’t do everything perfectly, I strived daily to obey Him and trust Him with every part of my life—even if it meant that I might be single. My heart was open and willing to trust and obey.
I have been blessed with a family that loves God. We serve and worship Him together. My vision, skewed by the world’s standards and Satan, was remarkably different than the plans that God had for me. I want to add that none of these blessing have been a result of my own goodness, but from the Lord’s grace and mercy. He honors complete obedience and a pure heart, and as His Word says, He is no respecter of persons.
God wants us to choose to love, worship, and serve Him willingly though—He will not force us. Joshua 24:15 says, “choose you this day whom ye will serve . . .as for me and my house, we will serve the Lord.” Deuteronomy 30:19 says, “I have set before you life and death, blessings and cursings: choose life , that both thou and thy seed may live.” God has given us the roadmap for life in His Word. Psalm 119:5 explains that “Thy Word is a lamp unto my feet and a light unto my path.” His Word must be the standard we apply that illuminates and directs our path and decision-making in life.
Often people think that they can obey part of the truth and be okay, but we are either living a surrendered life devoted to Christ or we are not. Psalm 66:18 says, “If I regard iniquity [sin] in my heart, the Lord will not hear me.” If we are not actively choosing life by obeying His Word and His will, we are choosing death—even if it is by default.
Some of these things will make people uncomfortable I’m sure, but the bottom line is God is the one that searches every man’s heart. We can’t trust ourselves to make the right decisions in life. Proverbs 21:2 says “All a man’s ways seem right to him, but the Lord weighs the heart.” We can be fooled into thinking that we know what’s best for ourselves and end up with a joyless, unsatisfied, and empty life.
We are don’t have to worry about the outcome of the decisions we make when we love Him with all of our heart, mind, and soul (Matt. 22:37-40). From there, we will be compelled to read his Word and pray. The Word tells us that when the Word is in our heart, not just our head, we won’t sin against Him (Psalm 119:11). Finally, we can rest, knowing that if we delight ourselves in the Lord, He really will give us the desires of our heart (Psalm 37:4).
I’d love to hear from you, and know that I’m praying that God is directing all the decisions that you have before you.
Blessings and Love,
MaRita
www.MaRitaTeague.net
Most all of us are bombarded on a daily basis with a host of choices, both big and small, to make but God has been showing me that we need to carefully make the right choices in life in all matters. The decisions that we have to make, however, should not be made directed by our emotions, by what others will approve of, or by the world’s standards. Our standard and base for decision-making must be grounded in God’s Word. When we take the decisions that we have to make to Him and His Word, we assured that we will always do the right thing.
I remember being at a crossroad in my life many years ago. I didn’t want to be single, but I knew that I couldn’t serve God and settle for less than what He wanted for me. I had to decide whether I’d let my fear of being lonely force me to make ungodly decisions or to trust Him. I remember clearly being knelt by the side of my bed in my small apartment crying before the Lord. A vision of years of loneliness unfolded before my eyes, and I sobbed. Yet, during my prayer the Holy Spirit calmed me and the decision was again before me. Are you going to trust me? That night I decided that I would serve and obey the Lord, no matter what. While I didn’t do everything perfectly, I strived daily to obey Him and trust Him with every part of my life—even if it meant that I might be single. My heart was open and willing to trust and obey.
I have been blessed with a family that loves God. We serve and worship Him together. My vision, skewed by the world’s standards and Satan, was remarkably different than the plans that God had for me. I want to add that none of these blessing have been a result of my own goodness, but from the Lord’s grace and mercy. He honors complete obedience and a pure heart, and as His Word says, He is no respecter of persons.
God wants us to choose to love, worship, and serve Him willingly though—He will not force us. Joshua 24:15 says, “choose you this day whom ye will serve . . .as for me and my house, we will serve the Lord.” Deuteronomy 30:19 says, “I have set before you life and death, blessings and cursings: choose life , that both thou and thy seed may live.” God has given us the roadmap for life in His Word. Psalm 119:5 explains that “Thy Word is a lamp unto my feet and a light unto my path.” His Word must be the standard we apply that illuminates and directs our path and decision-making in life.
Often people think that they can obey part of the truth and be okay, but we are either living a surrendered life devoted to Christ or we are not. Psalm 66:18 says, “If I regard iniquity [sin] in my heart, the Lord will not hear me.” If we are not actively choosing life by obeying His Word and His will, we are choosing death—even if it is by default.
Some of these things will make people uncomfortable I’m sure, but the bottom line is God is the one that searches every man’s heart. We can’t trust ourselves to make the right decisions in life. Proverbs 21:2 says “All a man’s ways seem right to him, but the Lord weighs the heart.” We can be fooled into thinking that we know what’s best for ourselves and end up with a joyless, unsatisfied, and empty life.
We are don’t have to worry about the outcome of the decisions we make when we love Him with all of our heart, mind, and soul (Matt. 22:37-40). From there, we will be compelled to read his Word and pray. The Word tells us that when the Word is in our heart, not just our head, we won’t sin against Him (Psalm 119:11). Finally, we can rest, knowing that if we delight ourselves in the Lord, He really will give us the desires of our heart (Psalm 37:4).
I’d love to hear from you, and know that I’m praying that God is directing all the decisions that you have before you.
Blessings and Love,
MaRita
www.MaRitaTeague.net
Thursday, February 4, 2010
Cleaning For Guests or Cleaning For Good?
Have you ever cleaned your house just because you’re expecting company? I’d like to say that my house is always immaculate and that I have never had to run around on a cleaning frenzy when guests are coming. However, I’ve had to do it, and it’s always a pretty sore reminder of what daily work has been neglected. I’ve also noticed that when I clean with the sole motivation that it be nice when guests arrive, it often goes right back to the state it was in before the company. Why? Well, just maybe because the motivation is only temporary.
Our spiritual lives can be the same way if we’re not careful. Our motivation to “clean” up our spiritual lives must develop out of our love for Christ and from our desire to be obedient to Him and His Word. God knows it all. He knows why we do what we do, and we will be measured by not only our actions, but also, or more importantly, by our motivation. For example, some people may go to church, pray, and even fast to get the approval and admiration of others. Some may give money to feed the poor, and many take care of the sick. Others concentrate on reading the Bible with the sole intent on becoming Biblical scholars. All these things are good things to do. However, if the motives for doing these things are not pure and out of our love for Christ, they are all in vain.
While we are cleaning up this year, let’s constantly check our motives. When we identify things in our lives and character that don’t line up with His Word and His will, let’s swiftly act to confess, repent, and do better. Let’s not justify any behavior, words, or deeds that are contrary to His Word. Yes, I understand that our justification comes from Him through our faith, but sin cannot be tolerated by a holy and just God.
David was a man after God’s own heart because of his ability to assess himself, identify his sins, and repent to God. In Psalm 51:2, David says, “Wash me thoroughly from mine iniquity, and cleanse me from my sin.” He recognizes that only God can cleanse him from his sin. He continues, “Behold, thou desireth truth in the inward parts.” David understood that God requires and desires true repentance by being honest with Him, others, and ourselves. God searches every man’s heart, so we must take the time to be honest with ourselves and examine our own.
David explains, “For thou desireth not sacrifice; else I would give it: thou delightest not in burnt offerings. The sacrifices of God are a broken and contrite heart” (Psalm 51:6-7). We can’t fool God. We can’t simply say we’re sorry and then excuse ourselves for doing the same thing again. True repentance turns away from the sin, and when you confess with a true repentant heart, God is faithful and just to forgive you of all unrighteousness.
Cleaning our spiritual lives up requires us to take inventory of where we are and who we are in Him. Sinful thoughts, acts, and behaviors have to go, much like we toss trash and junk in the garbage. We can’t say, “Well, God knows who I am and how much I can take.” We can’t say, “I can’t help it.” Wherever we fall short, we have a God who will never fail us. He’s given us power to overcome all the tendencies towards sinful actions and thoughts. His Word says that we will be held accountable for every idle word that proceeds out of our mouths.
I pray that none will read this as condemnation because it’s meant to encourage you to get to those secret places where sin may have crept in unaware. It has not been easy to admit some of the areas where I have clearly let Satan get a foothold, but I am grateful because I have the opportunity to repent and do better.
God has expectations from us. He created us to glorify Him and to be the salt and light of the earth. We cannot accomplish this with sin in the camp. Psalm 15:1 says, “Lord, who shall abide in thy tabernacle? Who shall dwell in thy holy hill? He that walketh uprightly, and worketh righteousness, and speaketh the truth in His heart.” Our motivation to clean house shouldn’t be out of fear but out of love and obedience. As the cleaning continues, let’s check our motives. When our motives are right, keeping things clean won’t be temporary, but a lifelong process, preparing and assisting us to bear fruit and live productive lives. Let’s walk upright, be righteous, and be truthful with ourselves and Him with a truly grateful and repentant heart.
Drop me a line on the Abiding in the Vine group page or visit www.MaRitaTeague.blogspot.com I’ve really enjoyed hearing from you all.
Love and Blessings,
MaRita
Our spiritual lives can be the same way if we’re not careful. Our motivation to “clean” up our spiritual lives must develop out of our love for Christ and from our desire to be obedient to Him and His Word. God knows it all. He knows why we do what we do, and we will be measured by not only our actions, but also, or more importantly, by our motivation. For example, some people may go to church, pray, and even fast to get the approval and admiration of others. Some may give money to feed the poor, and many take care of the sick. Others concentrate on reading the Bible with the sole intent on becoming Biblical scholars. All these things are good things to do. However, if the motives for doing these things are not pure and out of our love for Christ, they are all in vain.
While we are cleaning up this year, let’s constantly check our motives. When we identify things in our lives and character that don’t line up with His Word and His will, let’s swiftly act to confess, repent, and do better. Let’s not justify any behavior, words, or deeds that are contrary to His Word. Yes, I understand that our justification comes from Him through our faith, but sin cannot be tolerated by a holy and just God.
David was a man after God’s own heart because of his ability to assess himself, identify his sins, and repent to God. In Psalm 51:2, David says, “Wash me thoroughly from mine iniquity, and cleanse me from my sin.” He recognizes that only God can cleanse him from his sin. He continues, “Behold, thou desireth truth in the inward parts.” David understood that God requires and desires true repentance by being honest with Him, others, and ourselves. God searches every man’s heart, so we must take the time to be honest with ourselves and examine our own.
David explains, “For thou desireth not sacrifice; else I would give it: thou delightest not in burnt offerings. The sacrifices of God are a broken and contrite heart” (Psalm 51:6-7). We can’t fool God. We can’t simply say we’re sorry and then excuse ourselves for doing the same thing again. True repentance turns away from the sin, and when you confess with a true repentant heart, God is faithful and just to forgive you of all unrighteousness.
Cleaning our spiritual lives up requires us to take inventory of where we are and who we are in Him. Sinful thoughts, acts, and behaviors have to go, much like we toss trash and junk in the garbage. We can’t say, “Well, God knows who I am and how much I can take.” We can’t say, “I can’t help it.” Wherever we fall short, we have a God who will never fail us. He’s given us power to overcome all the tendencies towards sinful actions and thoughts. His Word says that we will be held accountable for every idle word that proceeds out of our mouths.
I pray that none will read this as condemnation because it’s meant to encourage you to get to those secret places where sin may have crept in unaware. It has not been easy to admit some of the areas where I have clearly let Satan get a foothold, but I am grateful because I have the opportunity to repent and do better.
God has expectations from us. He created us to glorify Him and to be the salt and light of the earth. We cannot accomplish this with sin in the camp. Psalm 15:1 says, “Lord, who shall abide in thy tabernacle? Who shall dwell in thy holy hill? He that walketh uprightly, and worketh righteousness, and speaketh the truth in His heart.” Our motivation to clean house shouldn’t be out of fear but out of love and obedience. As the cleaning continues, let’s check our motives. When our motives are right, keeping things clean won’t be temporary, but a lifelong process, preparing and assisting us to bear fruit and live productive lives. Let’s walk upright, be righteous, and be truthful with ourselves and Him with a truly grateful and repentant heart.
Drop me a line on the Abiding in the Vine group page or visit www.MaRitaTeague.blogspot.com I’ve really enjoyed hearing from you all.
Love and Blessings,
MaRita
Tuesday, November 10, 2009
Need a Promotion?
If you’ve ever felt slighted, overlooked, or boxed in, whether it’s on the job, in the church, or in your personal life, you’re not alone. I would venture to say that most of us have at some time or another. I remember having a supervisor once who seemed very unable to do her job well. She always very politely gave me all of her “dirty” work on top of my own responsibilities. This supervisor consistently caved under pressure and blamed others for her own lack of competence. She was more qualified on paper, but I was more equipped in other ways.
Frustrated beyond words, I remember praying that the Lord would strengthen me to deal with her. I also prayed fervently when other co-workers slammed her with unkind words behind her back. Admittedly, every fiber of my being wanted to indulge myself and join in the worthless chatter, but I resisted the temptation.
Instead, I obediently did what she asked without complaining and murmuring, which is monumental for me. I tried to help her in every way that I could, and when she made what I thought to be demeaning comments towards me, quite uncharacteristically, I didn’t retaliate.
God had given me the endurance to go through, but I wondered secretly if anyone recognized that I was the one doing the work. She seemed to be getting the credit for the good work I was doing. I mean, while she was sipping tea from a porcelain cup, adorned with roses and gold plated rims (literally), I was meeting with clients, working computer programs, and crunching the budget.
One day on my break, I went out to my car and cried in frustration, praying that God would give me strength. A very kind lady that I trusted and had confided in told me quite simply that promotion comes from God. That stuck with me, and at the time, I didn’t even know the scripture from Psalm 75:6, 7 which reads, “For promotion cometh neither from the east, nor the west, nor from the south. But God is the judge: he putteth down one, and setteth up another.”
I realized at that moment that I had to trust God’s sovereignty. It boiled down to my faith. I had to trust Him, even when it came to things that I thought may have been too minor for Him and even when it looked like He wasn’t showing Himself to me the way I wanted Him to.
Over the years, I’ve learned that promotion is exaltation. Exaltation for Christians only comes through service. Remember when Jesus gave the Beatitudes in Matthew 5? The poor in spirit get the kingdom of heaven, and the meek inherit the earth. People who hunger and thirst after righteousness are going to be filled. Those that are merciful will receive mercy. Another says that the pure in heart will see God and the peacemakers are called the children of God. You are elevated when you are humble and in service, which is quite opposite of the world’s definition of success!
We can never earn a promotion by manipulation, retaliation, jealousy, or backbiting. As Christians, we have to know that God is in control, and we must serve. In God’s timing, promotion may come. When it does, we have to remember that we received that promotion and/or exaltation, not because of who we are, but because of who God is.
If we become anxious while we are waiting, we will get tired, frustrated, and miserable. Galatians 6:9 says, “And let us not be weary in well doing: for in due season we shall reap, if we faint not.”
We just need to make sure that God has truly called us to the position or promotion that we desire. Our will must line up to His will for us. I’ve seen many people striving for positions that God has clearly never meant for them to have. However, if God has let you know that the promotion is yours, it will happen. Trust Him an keep on serving with a good attitude.
That supervisor I mentioned ended up quitting and I was offered the job. The Lord blessed me with the promotion I had waited for, and He’ll do the same for you.
Be sure to check the Abiding in the Vine Facebook Group page out and leave a comment. (Just type Abiding in the Vine in your search tab on FB.) Let’s get the message boards hopping with discussion from you, and invite friends to join!
Trusting Him With You,
MaRita
Frustrated beyond words, I remember praying that the Lord would strengthen me to deal with her. I also prayed fervently when other co-workers slammed her with unkind words behind her back. Admittedly, every fiber of my being wanted to indulge myself and join in the worthless chatter, but I resisted the temptation.
Instead, I obediently did what she asked without complaining and murmuring, which is monumental for me. I tried to help her in every way that I could, and when she made what I thought to be demeaning comments towards me, quite uncharacteristically, I didn’t retaliate.
God had given me the endurance to go through, but I wondered secretly if anyone recognized that I was the one doing the work. She seemed to be getting the credit for the good work I was doing. I mean, while she was sipping tea from a porcelain cup, adorned with roses and gold plated rims (literally), I was meeting with clients, working computer programs, and crunching the budget.
One day on my break, I went out to my car and cried in frustration, praying that God would give me strength. A very kind lady that I trusted and had confided in told me quite simply that promotion comes from God. That stuck with me, and at the time, I didn’t even know the scripture from Psalm 75:6, 7 which reads, “For promotion cometh neither from the east, nor the west, nor from the south. But God is the judge: he putteth down one, and setteth up another.”
I realized at that moment that I had to trust God’s sovereignty. It boiled down to my faith. I had to trust Him, even when it came to things that I thought may have been too minor for Him and even when it looked like He wasn’t showing Himself to me the way I wanted Him to.
Over the years, I’ve learned that promotion is exaltation. Exaltation for Christians only comes through service. Remember when Jesus gave the Beatitudes in Matthew 5? The poor in spirit get the kingdom of heaven, and the meek inherit the earth. People who hunger and thirst after righteousness are going to be filled. Those that are merciful will receive mercy. Another says that the pure in heart will see God and the peacemakers are called the children of God. You are elevated when you are humble and in service, which is quite opposite of the world’s definition of success!
We can never earn a promotion by manipulation, retaliation, jealousy, or backbiting. As Christians, we have to know that God is in control, and we must serve. In God’s timing, promotion may come. When it does, we have to remember that we received that promotion and/or exaltation, not because of who we are, but because of who God is.
If we become anxious while we are waiting, we will get tired, frustrated, and miserable. Galatians 6:9 says, “And let us not be weary in well doing: for in due season we shall reap, if we faint not.”
We just need to make sure that God has truly called us to the position or promotion that we desire. Our will must line up to His will for us. I’ve seen many people striving for positions that God has clearly never meant for them to have. However, if God has let you know that the promotion is yours, it will happen. Trust Him an keep on serving with a good attitude.
That supervisor I mentioned ended up quitting and I was offered the job. The Lord blessed me with the promotion I had waited for, and He’ll do the same for you.
Be sure to check the Abiding in the Vine Facebook Group page out and leave a comment. (Just type Abiding in the Vine in your search tab on FB.) Let’s get the message boards hopping with discussion from you, and invite friends to join!
Trusting Him With You,
MaRita
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