Our lives are so filled with activities and obligations; naturally we grow and develop in the directions that pull us the most. We may be an outstanding engineer or minister but have a desire to be a better father or spouse. I want to ask “what in life is pulling you the hardest right now?” Is it work or your career? Is it your family? Is it working out and eating healthily? Is it being sociable? As we grow and develop in the direction of the things that have the heaviest gravitational pull in our lives, let us not forsake the faith component. Ask ourselves what practical routine we can implement in our lives to increase our faith? Like studying Japanese, learning the piano, improving our culinary skills and Rome faith and a strong relationship with God is not built overnight. It comes through communicating with God (or praying), it comes through studying His word (or reading the Bible) and it is evidenced in our actions (or treating humanity in the manner in which we would like to be treated).
This month let’s pick a way in which we can periodically bolster our relationship with God. Regardless of where we are there is room for growth and aspiration towards perfection. See Paul’s teachings in Philippians 3:12-14 (“not that I have already attained, or am already perfected; but I press on, that I may lay hold of that for which Christ Jesus has also laid hold of me.” NKJV). For some it will be attending a church ceremony, for others who do that routinely already it might be studying Ecclesiastes – written by the son of David, believed to be the wisest person to ever walk the face of this earth – or taking 15 minutes in the evening or mornings to read a new Bible verse, and for others it might be volunteering at a local shelter during the holidays, showing God your earnest appreciation for what you DO have instead of asking for something additional.
Many times in life we are faced with obstacles and situations that are apparently larger than us: why do we have to die Lord? What will happen with my marriage or my family? When will I get a new job? Why do I have no friends? … these situations that are by and large out of our control. Yet we dedicate our life energy to worrying about them. Christ teaches us, however, that such worrying is fruitless. Matt 6:25-34. James later teaches that we should couple our faith with works. James 2:18-24. We are advised to rely on faith and do all we can.
I admire the faith and conviction of Shadrach, Meshach and Abed-Nego who defied king Nebuchadnezzar who requested that all in his kingdom bow down and worship a golden idol. Daniel 3. They were to be burned alive if they did not oblige. Do you think they were popular at that time or unafraid of the consequences of the empowered? Obviously. They were unwilling, however, to compromise their faith and do something they knew would be unpleasing to God. (“Shadrach, Meshach, and Abed-Nego answered and said to the king, ‘O Nebuchadnezzar, we have no need to answer you in this matter. 17 If that is the case [that they were to be placed in a fiery furnace], our God whom we serve is able to deliver us from the burning fiery furnace, and He will deliver us from your hand, O king. 18 But if not, let it be known to you, O king, that we do not serve your gods, nor will we worship the gold image which you have set up.”) How many of us are willing to say, even if God does not save me I will stand in faith? Even if I am embarrassed, lose my marriage, my life or my job, I stand in faith? Instead at times the possibility of a disappointing circumstance serves as reason to abandon our faith or self it until more comfortable circumstances present themselves. Even though it is difficult, when opposition arises that is the time in which we should amplify our faith not diminish it.
Recollect the good things that are results of an attitude of faith. Hebrew 11.
Miracles & blessings!
KJD
Monday, November 30, 2009
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
Monday, November 2, 2009
Know Your Enemy!
I don’t believe in giving a lot of unwarranted attention to Satan or the devil, but lately, I’ve noticed he’s been particularly busy. I know no better way to combat Satan’s attacks except by exposing them and using the Word of God, prayer to the Lord, and faith in God. I’ve been attempting this devotion for quite some time and numerous distractions have come to try to prevent me from sharing this with you. So, I pray that through this press to complete this that someone will be encouraged to identify Satan’s tactics and resist his attack.
First, Satan is not a myth; he is real. He was an angel of God that was cast out of heaven for being corrupt and prideful. He is God’s enemy and he is looking for people to attack to strengthen his army for the final conflict. It’s so important for us to know he’s real and to recognize his tactics so that we know how to equip ourselves and how to respond during an attack.
Satan’s tactics can be deceitful and cunning, and he appears relentless in his attacks. In fact, in Job 2:2, Satan tells the Lord that he has been “going to and fro in the earth . . . walking up and down in it.” Of course, after this, the Lord tells Satan of Job’s unwavering character and faith in the midst of his attacks. The Lord also tells Satan that he is attempting to destroy Job without a cause. Job holds fast to his faith in the face of suffering the loss of his family and property.
However, Satan, as my pastor reminded us, is an accuser of the brethren (See Rev. 12:10). Satan tells the Lord that Job is only faithful because his own body was safe. Then, the Lord allows Satan to attack Job’s physical body. Satan came before God to accuse Job, but it’s so important to remember that Satan can only do what God permits.
Satan, whose name means “Accuser” or “Adversary,” strives to destroy our faith in God. Most of us know and accept this, but whether it’s the small things that nag at us or the sickness that seems to linger, suffering can chip away at our faith if we let Satan get a foothold. Anything that shifts your focus away from your faith in God and His Word can be a real enemy, an attack that Satan launches to destroy your faith.
Job suffered losses through the death of loved ones, and he lost everything. He went from being very wealthy to having nothing but his health. Then, after the onslaught of Satan’s attacks, he even lost his health. Maybe Satan’s has launched an attack against you. Maybe the situation you’re in isn’t a consequence of sin and you don’t know what to do. Be prayerful, hold fast to your faith. Satan thought that Job would only be faithful while the Lord prospered him and didn’t think he would hold fast to his faith while suffering. Remember, in the end, Job was blessed with “twice as much as he had before” (Job 42:10). Be prayerful, and don’t let your faith go. Know that you will be rewarded, and you will be victorious in the end.
Maybe you’ve sinned, and the situation you find yourself in is a direct consequence of the sin. Satan wants you to wallow in the mistake and think it’s too big for God to forgive you. He wants us to feel condemned and unworthy, but the Bible says that our righteousness is as filthy rags before him (Isaiah 64:6). Every one of us has sinned and fallen short of the glory of God (Romans 3:23). It’s only through Christ’s death and resurrection that we can be saved. The victory came when he bore the weight of all of our sins on the cross. By shedding His blood, He paid the penalty for our sin.
We don’t have to beat ourselves up with our past mistakes. Even as some of us have to live with the consequences of our sin on earth, we cannot allow Satan to tempt us to believe that God does not forgive us. There is no condemnation in Christ (Romans 8:1).
The Word instructs us to “[b]e sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour” (I Peter 5:6). One commentary explains that lions attack those that are sick, young, or straggling behind. In other words, they look for victims who are unwell, alone, or not alert. When we are in the midst of a trial, we must be watchful of Satan. When we are suffering or alone, we can’t allow ourselves to be cut off from other believers, God’s Word, or prayer.
Finally, we must resist Satan at all costs. James 4:7 says, “Submit yourselves to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you. Draw nigh to God, and he will draw nigh to you.” With the power of the Holy Ghost, we can resist Satan and cling to God. God has already defeated Satan, which means that we have already won the victory!
Praying With You,
MaRita
www.MaRitaTeague.blogspot.com
Abiding in the Vine Facebook Group Page
First, Satan is not a myth; he is real. He was an angel of God that was cast out of heaven for being corrupt and prideful. He is God’s enemy and he is looking for people to attack to strengthen his army for the final conflict. It’s so important for us to know he’s real and to recognize his tactics so that we know how to equip ourselves and how to respond during an attack.
Satan’s tactics can be deceitful and cunning, and he appears relentless in his attacks. In fact, in Job 2:2, Satan tells the Lord that he has been “going to and fro in the earth . . . walking up and down in it.” Of course, after this, the Lord tells Satan of Job’s unwavering character and faith in the midst of his attacks. The Lord also tells Satan that he is attempting to destroy Job without a cause. Job holds fast to his faith in the face of suffering the loss of his family and property.
However, Satan, as my pastor reminded us, is an accuser of the brethren (See Rev. 12:10). Satan tells the Lord that Job is only faithful because his own body was safe. Then, the Lord allows Satan to attack Job’s physical body. Satan came before God to accuse Job, but it’s so important to remember that Satan can only do what God permits.
Satan, whose name means “Accuser” or “Adversary,” strives to destroy our faith in God. Most of us know and accept this, but whether it’s the small things that nag at us or the sickness that seems to linger, suffering can chip away at our faith if we let Satan get a foothold. Anything that shifts your focus away from your faith in God and His Word can be a real enemy, an attack that Satan launches to destroy your faith.
Job suffered losses through the death of loved ones, and he lost everything. He went from being very wealthy to having nothing but his health. Then, after the onslaught of Satan’s attacks, he even lost his health. Maybe Satan’s has launched an attack against you. Maybe the situation you’re in isn’t a consequence of sin and you don’t know what to do. Be prayerful, hold fast to your faith. Satan thought that Job would only be faithful while the Lord prospered him and didn’t think he would hold fast to his faith while suffering. Remember, in the end, Job was blessed with “twice as much as he had before” (Job 42:10). Be prayerful, and don’t let your faith go. Know that you will be rewarded, and you will be victorious in the end.
Maybe you’ve sinned, and the situation you find yourself in is a direct consequence of the sin. Satan wants you to wallow in the mistake and think it’s too big for God to forgive you. He wants us to feel condemned and unworthy, but the Bible says that our righteousness is as filthy rags before him (Isaiah 64:6). Every one of us has sinned and fallen short of the glory of God (Romans 3:23). It’s only through Christ’s death and resurrection that we can be saved. The victory came when he bore the weight of all of our sins on the cross. By shedding His blood, He paid the penalty for our sin.
We don’t have to beat ourselves up with our past mistakes. Even as some of us have to live with the consequences of our sin on earth, we cannot allow Satan to tempt us to believe that God does not forgive us. There is no condemnation in Christ (Romans 8:1).
The Word instructs us to “[b]e sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour” (I Peter 5:6). One commentary explains that lions attack those that are sick, young, or straggling behind. In other words, they look for victims who are unwell, alone, or not alert. When we are in the midst of a trial, we must be watchful of Satan. When we are suffering or alone, we can’t allow ourselves to be cut off from other believers, God’s Word, or prayer.
Finally, we must resist Satan at all costs. James 4:7 says, “Submit yourselves to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you. Draw nigh to God, and he will draw nigh to you.” With the power of the Holy Ghost, we can resist Satan and cling to God. God has already defeated Satan, which means that we have already won the victory!
Praying With You,
MaRita
www.MaRitaTeague.blogspot.com
Abiding in the Vine Facebook Group Page
Tuesday, October 20, 2009
Don't Wait Until the Battle is Over!
I love gospel music, especially when it helps you to recall God’s Word and promises (I know it all should, but that’s a different topic). Today, I’ve been humming this old song with the words, “Don’t wait until the battle is over; shout now. You know in the end, you’re gonna win.” I love this song because it reminds me of a very powerful story about steps we can take to get victory during a battle.
The actions of Jehoshaphat, a ruler of Judah, gives us important steps to take when we are under attack from the enemy. When Jehoshaphat learns that the children of Moab and Ammon were going to attack, he immediately proclaims a fast in all of Judah. He doesn’t want the people to have any distractions from seeking the Lord in prayer. He reminds God of His promises to the people and says, “neither know we what to do: but our eyes are upon thee” (2 Chronicles 20:12). In times of intense pressure, we need to really separate ourselves from anything that hinders us from the Lord and keep our eyes focused on Him.
When all the people of Judah are gathered together in prayer, Jahaziel, a Levite, prophesies saying, “Be not afraid nor dismayed by reason of this great multitude; for the battle is not yours, but God’s” (II Chron. 20:15). He goes on to tell them, “Ye shall not need to fight in this battle; set yourselves, stand still, and see the salvation of the Lord with you. O Judah and Jerusalem: fear not, nor be dismayed; tomorrow go out against them; for the Lord will be with you” (II Chron. 20:17). Sometimes all we need to do is recognize that the battle is not ours to fight; it’s the Lord’s.
After hearing the word from the Lord, Jehoshaphat and all the people of Judah fell on their faces and worshipped God. Jehoshaphat implores the people to believe God’s word and appoints singers to the Lord “that they should praise and the beauty of holiness, as they went out before the army, and to say, Praise the Lord; for his mercy endureth forever” (II Chron. 20: 21).
When the singers begin to sing and praise God, the two enemies turn against each other in utter confusion, killing each other until not one of them was alive. What a testimony of faith and trust in God! Worship and praise can be a weapon that we use to cause the enemy to scatter. When you are backed in a corner and don’t know what to do, praise Him. You’re not necessarily thanking God for the situation, but praising Him because He’s already promised in His Word that we are victorious! Hallelujah!
Sometimes, we can be so heavy burdened with pressure, heartache, and fear that we don’t want to praise Him with our lips. Fight against your feelings and emotions! We need to use our instruments of praise, especially in the midst of the battle if we want to win. We need to praise Him, whether it’s clapping our hands, using our voices, or playing instruments. There’s actually a scripture that tells us to shout with a loud voice. We are instructed to praise Him, knowing and trusting that in the end we will win.
After the Lord gave Jehoshaphat and his people the victory, they found so many riches (jewels, clothes, weapons, and food), that it took them three days to gather it, and the riches were in the midst of the dead bodies. When you praise your way through, you will get your reward and the enemy will be your footstool!
I feel so excited by this message that I could shout—seriously! The bottom line is that any attack on Judah was an attack against God. As believers, an attack against us is an attack against God and He has already won the battle. Whatever that thing is that has got you fearful, bound, depressed, or in dismay, don’t focus on how big and bad situation or problem is. Focus of how big and great God is! Praise Him in advance. I know personally there is deliverance and blessings in your praise.
Don’t forget to drop us a line on the Abiding in the Vine message board or on the blog at www.MaRitaTeague.blogspot.com If you know someone that may be blessed by the devotions, be sure to tell them to add the group on their Facebook page or on the blog.
Praising Through With You,
MaRita
The actions of Jehoshaphat, a ruler of Judah, gives us important steps to take when we are under attack from the enemy. When Jehoshaphat learns that the children of Moab and Ammon were going to attack, he immediately proclaims a fast in all of Judah. He doesn’t want the people to have any distractions from seeking the Lord in prayer. He reminds God of His promises to the people and says, “neither know we what to do: but our eyes are upon thee” (2 Chronicles 20:12). In times of intense pressure, we need to really separate ourselves from anything that hinders us from the Lord and keep our eyes focused on Him.
When all the people of Judah are gathered together in prayer, Jahaziel, a Levite, prophesies saying, “Be not afraid nor dismayed by reason of this great multitude; for the battle is not yours, but God’s” (II Chron. 20:15). He goes on to tell them, “Ye shall not need to fight in this battle; set yourselves, stand still, and see the salvation of the Lord with you. O Judah and Jerusalem: fear not, nor be dismayed; tomorrow go out against them; for the Lord will be with you” (II Chron. 20:17). Sometimes all we need to do is recognize that the battle is not ours to fight; it’s the Lord’s.
After hearing the word from the Lord, Jehoshaphat and all the people of Judah fell on their faces and worshipped God. Jehoshaphat implores the people to believe God’s word and appoints singers to the Lord “that they should praise and the beauty of holiness, as they went out before the army, and to say, Praise the Lord; for his mercy endureth forever” (II Chron. 20: 21).
When the singers begin to sing and praise God, the two enemies turn against each other in utter confusion, killing each other until not one of them was alive. What a testimony of faith and trust in God! Worship and praise can be a weapon that we use to cause the enemy to scatter. When you are backed in a corner and don’t know what to do, praise Him. You’re not necessarily thanking God for the situation, but praising Him because He’s already promised in His Word that we are victorious! Hallelujah!
Sometimes, we can be so heavy burdened with pressure, heartache, and fear that we don’t want to praise Him with our lips. Fight against your feelings and emotions! We need to use our instruments of praise, especially in the midst of the battle if we want to win. We need to praise Him, whether it’s clapping our hands, using our voices, or playing instruments. There’s actually a scripture that tells us to shout with a loud voice. We are instructed to praise Him, knowing and trusting that in the end we will win.
After the Lord gave Jehoshaphat and his people the victory, they found so many riches (jewels, clothes, weapons, and food), that it took them three days to gather it, and the riches were in the midst of the dead bodies. When you praise your way through, you will get your reward and the enemy will be your footstool!
I feel so excited by this message that I could shout—seriously! The bottom line is that any attack on Judah was an attack against God. As believers, an attack against us is an attack against God and He has already won the battle. Whatever that thing is that has got you fearful, bound, depressed, or in dismay, don’t focus on how big and bad situation or problem is. Focus of how big and great God is! Praise Him in advance. I know personally there is deliverance and blessings in your praise.
Don’t forget to drop us a line on the Abiding in the Vine message board or on the blog at www.MaRitaTeague.blogspot.com If you know someone that may be blessed by the devotions, be sure to tell them to add the group on their Facebook page or on the blog.
Praising Through With You,
MaRita
Saturday, October 10, 2009
Fear of Flying
Several years ago I took a flight that horrified me. I was taken off guard because I had been flying almost of my life and had never been fearful of flying. In the midst of a wind storm, the plain plummeted mercilessly. It would level off for a few moments and then shake and drop again. I prayed silently, and grabbed my husband’s hand as he tried to comfort me. It wasn’t much good because I just didn’t want to die that way. (I’m not scared to die, but there are just certain things that seem a little more frightening than others.) I gasped for air, nearly hyperventilating until I wept as the wheels hit the runway safely, resolved to never fly again.
I’ve often wondered how many of us can circumvent the areas where we are fearful to exercise our faith. What happens when we can’t avoid the areas where we are lacking in faith?
I often think about Peter walking on the water. Jesus said, “Come.” Peter responded in faith and walked out onto the sea. The scripture goes on to say, “But when he saw the wind boisterous, he was afraid, and beginning to sink, he cried, saying, Lord save me” (Matt. 14:30). Peter takes his eyes off of Jesus, sees the ferocity of the wind and begins to sink.
During a storm or in the heat of the battle, we don’t want to be like Peter and lose focus. When we lose our spiritual sight and see only the bleakness of our situation, we will begin to sink. When we are fearful and sinking, Satan has a stronghold in our lives that ultimately can destroy us if we let it.
The good news is that we can rise above fearful situation when we chose to exercise our faith in the Lord. He is there for us and will never let us down. Notice that Peter calls Jesus in his distress, “And immediately Jesus stretched forth his hand, and caught him, and said unto him, O thou of little faith, wherefore didst thou doubt?”
It can be so tempting to put our trust in family members, friends, doctors, pilots, etc. However, maintaining our faith in the midst of adversity is absolutely crucial to our growth and maturity as a believer. When we build up our faith in Him, especially through adverse situations, we can rest in Him (See Hebrews 4-13).
Trusting in our own efforts or anyone else’s can cause us to be in danger of turning away from the faith because our efforts are never sufficient. It also leads to anxiety, disappointment and depression. Only Christ can settle us and give us the peace and rest we all need to make it through stressful situations.
Jesus says, “Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid” (John 14:27). Peace that the world gives is fleeting because it’s only when there are no problems or conflict, which is an impossible state to stay in. However, the peace that Jesus gives to His believers is not contingent on whether conflict or problems are absent or present. His peace truly does surpass all understanding.
Isaiah 26:3 says, “Thou wilt keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on thee: because he trusteth in thee.” We can have God’s perfect peace regardless of the turmoil that might be going on in our lives. He can keep us centered, stable, and steadfast if we keep our focus on him. When he’s not just first in our lives, but the center of our lives, we can rest, knowing that he’s sovereign and got it all in control.
I’ve been on several flights since then. Admittedly, I still have to pray my way through, but I am determined to be totally delivered from the fear. I know that we have the victory over all of Satan’s attacks if we simply exercise our faith and know—we aren’t going to sink or plummet to the ground!
Why not share your testimony about how your faith gave you peace and helped you through an adverse situation? We are overcome by the words of our testimony! Drop us a line on the Abiding in the Vine Group message board or on www.MaRitaTeague.blogspot.com
Blessings and Peace,
MaRita
I’ve often wondered how many of us can circumvent the areas where we are fearful to exercise our faith. What happens when we can’t avoid the areas where we are lacking in faith?
I often think about Peter walking on the water. Jesus said, “Come.” Peter responded in faith and walked out onto the sea. The scripture goes on to say, “But when he saw the wind boisterous, he was afraid, and beginning to sink, he cried, saying, Lord save me” (Matt. 14:30). Peter takes his eyes off of Jesus, sees the ferocity of the wind and begins to sink.
During a storm or in the heat of the battle, we don’t want to be like Peter and lose focus. When we lose our spiritual sight and see only the bleakness of our situation, we will begin to sink. When we are fearful and sinking, Satan has a stronghold in our lives that ultimately can destroy us if we let it.
The good news is that we can rise above fearful situation when we chose to exercise our faith in the Lord. He is there for us and will never let us down. Notice that Peter calls Jesus in his distress, “And immediately Jesus stretched forth his hand, and caught him, and said unto him, O thou of little faith, wherefore didst thou doubt?”
It can be so tempting to put our trust in family members, friends, doctors, pilots, etc. However, maintaining our faith in the midst of adversity is absolutely crucial to our growth and maturity as a believer. When we build up our faith in Him, especially through adverse situations, we can rest in Him (See Hebrews 4-13).
Trusting in our own efforts or anyone else’s can cause us to be in danger of turning away from the faith because our efforts are never sufficient. It also leads to anxiety, disappointment and depression. Only Christ can settle us and give us the peace and rest we all need to make it through stressful situations.
Jesus says, “Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid” (John 14:27). Peace that the world gives is fleeting because it’s only when there are no problems or conflict, which is an impossible state to stay in. However, the peace that Jesus gives to His believers is not contingent on whether conflict or problems are absent or present. His peace truly does surpass all understanding.
Isaiah 26:3 says, “Thou wilt keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on thee: because he trusteth in thee.” We can have God’s perfect peace regardless of the turmoil that might be going on in our lives. He can keep us centered, stable, and steadfast if we keep our focus on him. When he’s not just first in our lives, but the center of our lives, we can rest, knowing that he’s sovereign and got it all in control.
I’ve been on several flights since then. Admittedly, I still have to pray my way through, but I am determined to be totally delivered from the fear. I know that we have the victory over all of Satan’s attacks if we simply exercise our faith and know—we aren’t going to sink or plummet to the ground!
Why not share your testimony about how your faith gave you peace and helped you through an adverse situation? We are overcome by the words of our testimony! Drop us a line on the Abiding in the Vine Group message board or on www.MaRitaTeague.blogspot.com
Blessings and Peace,
MaRita
Friday, September 25, 2009
No More Mediocrity!
There’s a virus that appears to be running rampant in the church body. No, it’s not the swine flu or any physical virus, but it is one that can lead to spiritual death. It is quite simply the spirit of mediocrity.
On its face, it seems harmless enough. Maybe you’re a Christian but you haven’t been to church in a while. Maybe you attend service every Sunday but you’re a happy or not-so-happy bench warmer. Maybe you even find yourself serving the Lord in your actions, but somewhere along the way you have lost your passion and zeal for Christ. Sometimes we find ourselves going through the motions, so careful to do what’s right but void of the “right” spirit. I have certainly experienced this last one more than once in my Christian walk. However, God expects more from us. At times, we have to move push, press, and revive ourselves so that we can walk victoriously in what God has called us to do. Only then can we mature in Him and produce the fruit we are instructed to bear.
First, let me say that we all get tired from time to time. We’re human. The only danger is if we stay in this state because it seems that it has potential to move us to mediocrity. The Bible instructs us not to be weary in well-doing and not to faint, indicating that this is a very possible state for believers. We can’t let our tiredness, frustration, or discouragement lead us into mediocrity.
In the third chapter of Revelations, we learn about the church of the Laodiceans. Apparently, Laodicea was a very wealthy city with successful banking, wool manufacturing, and a medical school. The city had a problem with the water supply. At one point, they built an aqueduct to get water to the city from hot springs. However, by the time the water made it to the city, it was lukewarm and unfavorable to drink because of it. Not many people like lukewarm water.
Anyway, the church in the city had become lukewarm, just like the water supply. In other words, they didn’t really stand for Christ. They were possibly indifferent and idle. They were Christian in name but operating in selfishness and obviously had grown apathetic in their love for God.
Christ says to the Laodiceans, “I know thy works, that thou art neither cold nor hot: I would thou wert cold or hot. So then because thou art lukewarm, and neither cold nor hot, I will spue thee out of my mouth” (Rev. 3:15, 16). Maybe their riches had led them to lives of complacency in Christ. Maybe they felt like they had things under control. The bottom line is that wealth, health, and ease can be deadly deceptions, but Christ will not tolerate indifference towards Him.
The Lord addresses each point of their wealth and “flips the script” as we like to say. He says, “I counsel thee to buy of me gold tried in the fire, that thou mayest be rich; and white raiment, that thou mayest be clothed, and that the shame of thy nakedness do not appear; and anoint thine eyes with eyesalve, that thou mayest see.” The Lord tells them to get their spiritual treasures from him. The Laodiceans also were proud of their wool manufacturing and eye salve that came from the medical school, but the Lord tells them to purchase white garments from Him (His righteousness) and to get healing from their eyes from him so that they could see His truth.
The good news is that even if we discover that we have settled into a place of complacency, the Lord’s grace can cover us. We have an opportunity today to turn our indifference toward him around. Jesus tells the church, “As many as I love, I rebuke and chasten: be zealous therefore and repent” (Rev. 3:19). We must be swift to ask for forgiveness, refuse to go back that way again, and in earnest passion, we should pursue the things of God and the will that He has for our lives.
On its face, it seems harmless enough. Maybe you’re a Christian but you haven’t been to church in a while. Maybe you attend service every Sunday but you’re a happy or not-so-happy bench warmer. Maybe you even find yourself serving the Lord in your actions, but somewhere along the way you have lost your passion and zeal for Christ. Sometimes we find ourselves going through the motions, so careful to do what’s right but void of the “right” spirit. I have certainly experienced this last one more than once in my Christian walk. However, God expects more from us. At times, we have to move push, press, and revive ourselves so that we can walk victoriously in what God has called us to do. Only then can we mature in Him and produce the fruit we are instructed to bear.
First, let me say that we all get tired from time to time. We’re human. The only danger is if we stay in this state because it seems that it has potential to move us to mediocrity. The Bible instructs us not to be weary in well-doing and not to faint, indicating that this is a very possible state for believers. We can’t let our tiredness, frustration, or discouragement lead us into mediocrity.
In the third chapter of Revelations, we learn about the church of the Laodiceans. Apparently, Laodicea was a very wealthy city with successful banking, wool manufacturing, and a medical school. The city had a problem with the water supply. At one point, they built an aqueduct to get water to the city from hot springs. However, by the time the water made it to the city, it was lukewarm and unfavorable to drink because of it. Not many people like lukewarm water.
Anyway, the church in the city had become lukewarm, just like the water supply. In other words, they didn’t really stand for Christ. They were possibly indifferent and idle. They were Christian in name but operating in selfishness and obviously had grown apathetic in their love for God.
Christ says to the Laodiceans, “I know thy works, that thou art neither cold nor hot: I would thou wert cold or hot. So then because thou art lukewarm, and neither cold nor hot, I will spue thee out of my mouth” (Rev. 3:15, 16). Maybe their riches had led them to lives of complacency in Christ. Maybe they felt like they had things under control. The bottom line is that wealth, health, and ease can be deadly deceptions, but Christ will not tolerate indifference towards Him.
The Lord addresses each point of their wealth and “flips the script” as we like to say. He says, “I counsel thee to buy of me gold tried in the fire, that thou mayest be rich; and white raiment, that thou mayest be clothed, and that the shame of thy nakedness do not appear; and anoint thine eyes with eyesalve, that thou mayest see.” The Lord tells them to get their spiritual treasures from him. The Laodiceans also were proud of their wool manufacturing and eye salve that came from the medical school, but the Lord tells them to purchase white garments from Him (His righteousness) and to get healing from their eyes from him so that they could see His truth.
The good news is that even if we discover that we have settled into a place of complacency, the Lord’s grace can cover us. We have an opportunity today to turn our indifference toward him around. Jesus tells the church, “As many as I love, I rebuke and chasten: be zealous therefore and repent” (Rev. 3:19). We must be swift to ask for forgiveness, refuse to go back that way again, and in earnest passion, we should pursue the things of God and the will that He has for our lives.
Wednesday, September 9, 2009
What's Your Final Answer?
Lately, I’ve found myself asking so many questions as many close family members and friends struggle with serious health challenges, heavy financial burdens, and devastating job losses. Out of the many questions, one always rises like cream to the top. I wonder why. Maybe you’ve wondered why you’re facing the giant that towers above you. You may wonder how you’re going to get through the crisis. You may be asking yourself how to respond to others around you are suffering. We have so many questions, but there is a final answer to them found in God’s Word.
Asking the question “Why?” in the midst of suffering seems pretty logical. After all, Job endured the suffering, but what plagued him most was why he suffered. He was given a host of incorrect answers from his friends, but in the end, God didn’t really answer Job’s question. Instead, God reminded Job that it was better to know Him than the answers to his questions.
When we suffer and it is not a direct consequence of sin, we have to rely on and trust in God. He’s sovereign and in control. Our final answer should be to continue to love Him and love one another with compassion.
Love is a word that’s really been watered down by the world and has come to mean much less than what God intended. The depth of God’s love cannot be measured. It’s supernatural and powerful, extending far beyond what we can imagine.
Chapter 13 in I Corinthians beautifully instructs us about love. The second verse says, “And though I have the gift of prophesy, and understand all mysteries, and all knowledge; and though I have all faith, so that I could remove mountains, and have not charity [love], I am nothing.” Paul lets us know that we can know the future, understand deep mysteries, have unending knowledge, and have deep faith, but without the love of God, we are nothing.
Paul goes on to explain that love suffers long. When we love as Christ loves us, we don’t look inward to ourselves, but we look up to God. God’s love causes us to be unselfish, and as a result, we love outward to others. Love automatically shifts our focus to Him instead of our problem.
Having the love of God is like putting gas in an engine. It fuels us, making our gifts and service to Him useful. In addition, God’s love enables us to go through the storms of life without caving under the pressure.
I Corinthians 13:7 explains, “[Love] beareth all things, believeth all things, hopeth all things, endureth all things.” When we are operating in God’s perfect love, we can bear all things, not just some. We can believe and trust that the Lord is going to keep his promises. Hope is always present, no matter how dismal the situation may seem. Finally, we can endure the pain, discomfort, and suffering, knowing that the Lord is going to supply our every need.
Paul tells us that the greatest of all the spiritual gifts is love. So, what is the final answer to our questions? The final answer has to be that we know that God loves us. “[Love] never faileth: but whether there be prophesies, they shall fail; whether there be tongues, they shall cease; whether there be knowledge, it shall vanish away” (I Cor. 13:8). God’s love never fails in any situation.
When we don’t know how to respond to life’s challenges and difficulties, remember that there is an answer and response that never fails. He loves us, and when we love Him and spread His love, we are equipped to stand strong against Satan’s attacks.
Paul says that “For now we see through a glass, darkly; but then face to face; now I know in part; but then shall I know even as also I am known.” We may not have the specific answers to some of the hard questions, but one day we will when we meet Him face to face.
Until then, I pray that the Lord will continue to shower you with His love and that you draw closer to Him, sharing and extending His love to others.
Love to hear from you. Drop me a line . . .
www.MaRitaTeague.net
www.MaRitaTeague.blogspot.com
Asking the question “Why?” in the midst of suffering seems pretty logical. After all, Job endured the suffering, but what plagued him most was why he suffered. He was given a host of incorrect answers from his friends, but in the end, God didn’t really answer Job’s question. Instead, God reminded Job that it was better to know Him than the answers to his questions.
When we suffer and it is not a direct consequence of sin, we have to rely on and trust in God. He’s sovereign and in control. Our final answer should be to continue to love Him and love one another with compassion.
Love is a word that’s really been watered down by the world and has come to mean much less than what God intended. The depth of God’s love cannot be measured. It’s supernatural and powerful, extending far beyond what we can imagine.
Chapter 13 in I Corinthians beautifully instructs us about love. The second verse says, “And though I have the gift of prophesy, and understand all mysteries, and all knowledge; and though I have all faith, so that I could remove mountains, and have not charity [love], I am nothing.” Paul lets us know that we can know the future, understand deep mysteries, have unending knowledge, and have deep faith, but without the love of God, we are nothing.
Paul goes on to explain that love suffers long. When we love as Christ loves us, we don’t look inward to ourselves, but we look up to God. God’s love causes us to be unselfish, and as a result, we love outward to others. Love automatically shifts our focus to Him instead of our problem.
Having the love of God is like putting gas in an engine. It fuels us, making our gifts and service to Him useful. In addition, God’s love enables us to go through the storms of life without caving under the pressure.
I Corinthians 13:7 explains, “[Love] beareth all things, believeth all things, hopeth all things, endureth all things.” When we are operating in God’s perfect love, we can bear all things, not just some. We can believe and trust that the Lord is going to keep his promises. Hope is always present, no matter how dismal the situation may seem. Finally, we can endure the pain, discomfort, and suffering, knowing that the Lord is going to supply our every need.
Paul tells us that the greatest of all the spiritual gifts is love. So, what is the final answer to our questions? The final answer has to be that we know that God loves us. “[Love] never faileth: but whether there be prophesies, they shall fail; whether there be tongues, they shall cease; whether there be knowledge, it shall vanish away” (I Cor. 13:8). God’s love never fails in any situation.
When we don’t know how to respond to life’s challenges and difficulties, remember that there is an answer and response that never fails. He loves us, and when we love Him and spread His love, we are equipped to stand strong against Satan’s attacks.
Paul says that “For now we see through a glass, darkly; but then face to face; now I know in part; but then shall I know even as also I am known.” We may not have the specific answers to some of the hard questions, but one day we will when we meet Him face to face.
Until then, I pray that the Lord will continue to shower you with His love and that you draw closer to Him, sharing and extending His love to others.
Love to hear from you. Drop me a line . . .
www.MaRitaTeague.net
www.MaRitaTeague.blogspot.com
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