Hard Times: 7 Keys to Trusting God with Everything You've Got

There have been a couple times in my life (that I can recall at this time) that I didn’t know what to do at first.  The first time was when my brother called me to tell me he had cancer, and the second time was when I got the call that my mom had a major heart attack.  Both calls were serious, humbling, and surprising.  Both my brother’s cancer and my mom’s heart attack were life threatening. There was nothing I could do to adjust something, or work harder…longer, or make something happen that would make everything better.  It was out of my hands.  Those kinds of times eventually help you find clearer perspective in your relationships (familial and Divine).

Do you remember a time when you just didn’t know what to do?  Perhaps that’s how you feel right now, or maybe that’s how you have felt recently.  You ask friends for direction…you come up with your own ideas and a plan of action – but you seem to still lack peace.  What do you do?  Naomi and Ruth are in one of those places of life – and they turn to the law of God for their next step!  Praise God!  We see the evidence of renewed faith in God and a willingness to follow His plan.  What happens? Everything isn’t perfectly smooth on this path, but in the end God’s plan works just as He set it up to work.  Poverty will turn to provision.  Weakness will turn to strength.  Discouragement will turn to encouragement…all because they return to the Lord’s way for their life!

The believer must depend on God’s leading…God’s Word… in the midst of good and hard times.

The Mighty Man

Ruth 2:1-2. Kinsman means relative. Boaz is related to Elimelech (Ruth 2:1, 3)…and not just relative, Boaz is wealthy and Naomi’s Kinsman Redeemer (Ruth 2:1). According to several laws in the Pentateuch, a male relative would fulfill the role of kinsman redeemer. This relative had the honor or responsibility to intervene on behalf of their relative who was in trouble, danger, or need.  The Hebrew word for kinsman-redeemer clarifies as one who delivers or rescues (Genesis 48:16; Exodus 6:6) or redeems property or person (Leviticus 27:9–25, 25:47–55). 

The Gleaner

Charles Spurgeon told this story of his grandfather James and his faith in God. “He had a large family and a very small income, but he loved his Lord, and he would not have given up his preaching of the gospel for anything.” One day the cow on which the family relied for milk for the children suddenly died. James Spurgeon’s wife was greatly concerned, but he said, “God said He would provide, and I believe He could send us fifty cows if He pleased.”

On that same day, a group met in London—a group James Spurgeon did not know—that wanted to help meet the needs of poor pastors. They raised a large sum of money, and began sending it to different pastors in need to help their families. When they reached the end of the list, there were still five pounds left. One man suggested sending it to James Spurgeon. Another said, “No, let’s not send just five pounds. Let me add five more to go with it.” Others joined in, and the day after his cow died, James Spurgeon received twenty pounds in the mail!

You can trust God to keep His promises and provide for your needs. “But my God shall supply all your need according to his riches in glory by Christ Jesus.”—Philippians 4:19  (Source: The Metropolitan Tabernacle Pulpit, Volume 21, Charles Spurgeon)

• Look at Ruth 2:3.  “To glean” meant they were poor (Lev. 19:9-10; 23:22)

• The Modern  Day Reaper: cuts the grain, threshes the grain, and puts it in a sack – you get it all today.  But back in the Bible times – you didn’t get it all, and so they could come through and pick up what was dropped or missed.

• According to OT Law, God required his people to be generous to the stranger and to the poor…the stranger and the poor had to work, but they were given the opportunity to have their needs met. We could learn much in today’s society from this simple law of God for the strangers and poor – generosity and work ethic went together!!

• Ruth is a Moabite stranger and poor…Naomi is poor…Ruth is following the Mosaic Law for help!  Ruth is beginning to reveal a deeper relationship with the God of Israel.  What kind of relationship with God are you revealing in the midst of your day to day life?

The Happenstance

“…and her hap was to light on a part of the field belonging unto Boaz:” (Ruth 2:3)

This word “hap” means “happened to.” There was no arrow pointing to the field of Boaz.  God hadn’t revealed it to her in a dream.  Ruth didn’t do genealogy research and then sought out the one called Boaz.  God used the circumstances to lead her. God leads people today through His Word, circumstances, and prayer. 

We often want to see the “how-to” and the “why,” but God  just wants us to trust Him and remain dependent on Him.

Ira Sankey was traveling on a steamer down the Delaware river when he was asked to sing. He led the group in singing “Saviour Like a Shepherd Lead Us.” When he finished, a man stepped from the shadows and asked, “Did you ever serve in the Union Army?” “Yes,” Sankey replied, “in the spring of 1860.”

“Can you remember if you were doing picket duty on a bright, moonlit night in 1862?”

“Yes,” Sankey replied.

“So did I, but I was serving in the Confederate army. When I saw you standing at your post, I thought to myself, ‘That fellow will never get away alive.’ I raised my musket and took aim. I was standing in the shadow, completely concealed, while the full light of the moon was falling upon you. At that instant, just as a moment ago, you raised your eyes to Heaven and began to sing. ‘Let him sing his song to the end,’ I said to myself, ‘I can shoot him afterwards. He’s my victim at all events, and my bullet cannot miss him.’

But the song you sang then was the song you sang just now. I heard the words perfectly: ‘We are Thine; do Thou befriend us. Be the Guardian of our way.’ Those words stirred up many memories. I began to think of my childhood and my God-fearing mother. She had many times sung that song to me. When you had finished your song, it was impossible for me to take aim again. I thought, ‘The Lord who is able to save that man from certain death must surely be great and mighty.’ And my arm of its own accord dropped limp at my side.”

God had protected Sankey in a great way just like He protects and leads all of His children. (Source: Liberating Ministry form the Success Syndrome, Kent and Barbara Hughes)

We cannot put our trust in special how-to books or human reasoning – we must squarely place our dependence in the Lord and allow Him to lead us.

7 Keys to Trusting God with Everything You’ve Got:

1.      Proverbs 3:1 – Choose to Remember God’s Law

2.      Proverbs 3:1, 3-4 – Choose to Obey God’s Law

3.      Proverbs 3:5 – Don’t Trust Yourself

4.      Proverbs 3:6 – Lift God Above All

5.      Proverbs 3:7 – Find Wisdom in God

6.      Proverbs 3:7 – Run from Sin

7.      Proverbs 3:9-10 – Honor God With What You Have

Coming Home: 4 Choices to Avoid Wandering from the Lord

"Marathoner Loses by a Mustache." So read the headline of a recent (1992) Associated Press story. It appeared that Abbes Tehami of Algeria was an easy winner of the Brussels Marathon--until someone wondered where his mustache had gone! Checking eyewitness accounts, it quickly became evident that the mustache belonged to Tehami's coach, Bensalem Hamiani. Hamiani had run the first seven-and-a-half miles of the race for Tehami, then dropped out of the pack and disappeared into the woods to pass race number 62 on to his pupil. "They looked about the same," race organizers said. "Only one had a mustache." It's expected that the two will never again be allowed to run in Belgium.  (Source: Today in the Word, Moody Bible Institute, Jan, 1992.)

We know the old adage, “cheaters never prosper.”  Right?  Well, this true story reminds us that the disobedient wandering path will prove undesirable, miserable, and full of regret.  This also should remind us that returning to the Lord is full of compassion, mercy, and forgiveness!  Come!  Let us return to the Lord.

1.      A Strong Stirring (v. 19)

“Is this Naomi?”  This is the question Naomi hears as she returns home. She has been gone for over 10 years.  She left with her husband and two sons.  They left seeking better times and better provision, and now she returns not having found what they sought after.

Isn’t that so often the case when wandering away from the Lord?  We leave God’s path believing it is a better, more pleasing path.  We ignore the warnings in scripture.  We choose to disagree with the sermons we have heard in church…and we rebel against our parent’s rules that are meant to point us to the Lord.  However long we walk our wayward path, we eventually come to the same conclusion: God’s way is better. 

Mankind will never find anything better outside of the Lord!  “Yes, I know” – but is that what we are living when we say no:

• …to God’s call to missions or preaching ministry

• …to tithing or getting baptized

• …to church membership

• …to witnessing

• …to coming to church

• …to our role in the family unit

• …to prayer

Let this stir our sleeping hearts to awaken and seek God’s path!

2.      A Strong Response (v. 20-21)

“Call me Mara.”  Naomi’s response was pointed. There was a great emphasis placed on the meaning of names during this time in history.  The Israelites would name their offspring because of the meaning of the name.  Naomi means “my joy, my delight.”  Mara means “bitterness.” 

Naomi is making her first appearance in Bethlehem…her poverty is obvious…no husband…no sons…and a Moabite daughter-in-law.

“…the Almighty hath dealt very bitterly with me.”  Naomi continues her response with heart breaking clarification. This is because of disobedience!  Naomi has been left alone to feel the full effect of their disobedience…but also note that her husband and sons are no longer here to receive blessings from the Lord.  Only Naomi is here for such blessings after 10 years of struggle.

“…left full…returning empty….”  The sad realty of Naomi’s last 10 years is summed up with a review of the day they left Bethlehem and the day she returns home. So, no longer call me joyful & happy, but call me bitter.

In the West Indies there grows a beautiful and attractive flower, but on being plucked it ceases to be beautiful, and emits a most unpleasant odor. It is called by the natives 'the dead horse'—about the best name that could be given it.—J. T. Mawson

It was helpfully stated in Hebrews 11:25 when Moses chose “rather to suffer affliction with the people of God, than to enjoy the pleasures of sin for a season.”  Sin is full of pleasure…but only for a short time!  But in the midst of sin, the believer isn’t thinking about the long term affects.  Naomi has lived and is still living through the long term affects.  What about us?

• When lying to a boss or spouse for the third time — then dealing with broken relationships without trust

• When cutting down leadership behind the leader’s back — then dealing with our own destroyed leadership

• When trying out gambling, drunkenness, or drugs — then dealing with no money, no family, & no job

• When choosing “innocent things” (sports, family, work) over God — then dealing with the guilt of sin and the misery of little relationship with God…and dealing with decisions made because idolatry led our way instead the Lord leading our way.

Don’t lose sight of the long term affects of sinful choices.

3.      A Strong Contrast (v. 22)

Ruth is a Moabite…shut out by the Mosaic Law…she doesn’t seem to have a chance.  All odds seem against Ruth and Naomi.

Isn’t that just like the Lord?!  As far as the eye can see – everything seems to be against Ruth & Naomi, BUT GOD!  His plan is to bless them!

Ephesians 2:2-4 – “Wherein time past ye walked according to the course of this world, according to the prince of the power of the air, the spirit that now worketh in the children of disobedience: Among whom also we all had our conversation in times past in the lusts of our flesh, fulfilling the desire of the flesh and of the mind; and were by nature the children of wrath, even as others.  But God, who is rich in mercy, for His great love wherewith He loved us.”

I am told that one of the largest freshwater turtles is the alligator snapping turtle. Found primarily in the southeastern United States, these massive turtles have been known to weigh close to 250 pounds. They are carnivorous, and while their diet is primarily fish, they have been known to eat almost anything else they can find in the water—even in a few cases small alligators! The alligator snapping turtle relies on an uniquely deceitful method of foraging for fish.

The turtle will lie completely still on the floor of a lake or river with its mouth wide open. At the end of the turtle’s tongue is a small, pink, worm-shaped appendage. The turtle wiggles the end of its tongue so that it looks like a worm moving through the water. When a fish comes to eat the worm, the turtle’s jaws rapidly close, trapping the fish so that it cannot escape.

In similar fashion to the snapping turtle’s lure, temptation comes in the guise of something desirable, but it always carries destruction with it in the end. If we could see the end result rather than the tempting part, it would be far easier to resist. But Satan knows this, so he cleverly disguises what is deadly in the guise of something pleasurable.

4 Choices to Avoid Wandering from the Lord:

While we desperately need to depend on the Holy Spirit to enable us by His grace to do His will – (FAITH!  Rms. 5:2) – we must also make godly choices, yield our will, and act on our faith in God.  Consider these essential choices:

1.      Feed Yourself.  

Daily Bible reading, prayer, and regular church attendance are not optional choices for the humble disciple of Jesus Christ.  (Psalm 1:2; Joshua 1:8; Luke 18:1; I Thessalonians 5:17; Hebrews 10:24-25)

2.      Lead Yourself.  

Don’t rehearse your feelings.  Rehearse truth. (Psalm 42; Philippians 4:8)

 3.      Protect Yourself.  

First, take care what you allow in your mind.  The battle begins in the mind – the mind is where the roots for the battle are planted!  Your mind impacts desires…the desire will lead to choices…and the choices will form habits.

Second, “Birds of a feather folk together.”  We have heard this familiar phrase many times – and it is true!  Your closest friendships will reveal the condition of your heart and will impact your relationship with God.  You have those close friendships because there is something in your heart that is like them and drawn to them (Proverbs 27:17; I Corinthians 15:33).

4.      Renew Your “Self.”  

Have you wandered?  Have you chosen what you thought was a more pleasing path?  Then turn your eyes once again on Jesus!  When you turn to Jesus you will find:

…love replacing bitterness & resentment

…mercy replacing condemnation

…compassion replacing disapproval

…and forgiveness replacing guilt

Psalm 86:5, 15; Ephesians 2:2-4.  The disobedient wandering path will prove undesirable, miserable, and full of regret…BUT, returning to the Lord is full of compassion, mercy, love, and forgiveness!  Come, return to the Lord.

Forcing a Choice: 4 Lessons to Learn for Decision Making

In the 1950s a psychologist, Stanton Samenow, and a psychiatrist, Samuel Yochelson, sharing the conventional wisdom that crime is caused by environment, set out to prove their point. They began a 17-year study involving thousands of hours of clinical testing of 250 inmates here in the District of Columbia. To their astonishment, they discovered that the cause of crime cannot be traced to environment, poverty, or oppression. Instead, crime is the result of individuals making, as they put it, wrong moral choices. In their 1977 work The Criminal Personality, they concluded that the answer to crime is a, “Conversion of the wrong-doer to a more responsible lifestyle.”

In 1987, Harvard professors James Q. Wilson and Richard J. Herrnstein came to similar conclusions in their book Crime and Human Nature. They determined that the cause of crime is a lack of proper moral training among young people during the morally formative years, particularly ages one to six.  (Source: Christianity Today, August 16, 1993)

We must choose to own our own choices.

The press to go back is made (v. 7-9).

• …to your Moabite homes (v. 8)

• …in genuine love (v. 8 – “deal kindly”)

• …for a better future…marriage (v. 9 – “find rest”)

The connections between these women are strong and very real (v. 9-13).

• There was crying among all three ladies. Emotions have a tendency to confuse right thinking.

• Naomi presses Orpah and Ruth to return home (v. 10)

• Naomi provides important reasoning in the middle of a very emotional time (v. 11-13)

  “it grieveth me much” – Naomi is telling them that this is harder on her than it was on them.

Ruth and Orpah made their own decisions, and they took chose different directions (1:14-18).

NAOMI’S PRESSING & REASONING TEACHES US TO:

1.      Remove manipulation and intimidation from the decision-making process. 

If they were going to come with her, they needed to make it their choice…not a deceived choice with manipulation  – and not because they were intimidated to do go with her. 

Have you ever made a choice because of manipulation or intimidation?  We probably all have at some point in our lives.  However, such a choice surrounded with such impure motives, will only lead to more struggle in the future.  It will always take more what got you “there” to keep you “there.”

2.      Remove “feelings based” choices from the decision-making process. 

Emotions were heavy in this scene; however, Naomi insists on helping these young women listen to the facts.  We must take great care not to make decisions based only on feelings.  Feelings will often be involved, but it is important we do not make “feelings” the foundation of our decision making. Whether it is an altar call after a particularly moving sermon, or it is financial decision being made, we cannot make our decisions based purely on feelings.  Feelings change…daily!  Truth remains steady.  Truth strengthens long term decisions.

3.      The reality of what is best for me, may not be best for you. 

Naomi has known these ladies for 10 years.  This passage speaks of genuine love for one another.  Naomi doesn’t stress a direction that would best benefit herself.  Think about it.  Sending them away would remove:

• …travel companions

• …help in settling back in at Bethlehem-Judah

• …friends at a time she is returning to the place she left for Moab (Israel’s enemy)

• …companionship.  Without companionship, the loss of her husband and two sons would seem even heavier during this move to return home. Naomi is about to face a lot of “firsts” in returning home…first experiences without her husband and sons at home. The last time she was in Bethlehem-Judah her husband and sons were alive.

So, Naomi allows Ruth and Orpah to choose their path without asking them to consider her needs.   What happens?  God takes care of Naomi’s needs.

4.      Never forget the reality of accountability for our own choices.

Even though Naomi is struggling with bitter disappointments, she is giving wise counsel to Orpah and Ruth.  When things get harder…and they will…these ladies don’t want to be feeling like they had no choice in coming with Naomi.  They made different choices…but, they made their own choice.

Romans 14:8, 12

“For whether we live, we live unto the Lord; and whether we die, we die unto the Lord: whether we live therefore, or die, we are the Lord's.

So then every one of us shall give account of himself to God.”

So, when we make choices in life, we cannot blame anyone else FOR WHAT WE CHOOSE TO DO! 

• Your temper is not your boss’ or your kid’s fault…

• Your gossip or slander is not your friend’s fault…

• Your ill-treatment of another human being is not the fault of their skin color…

• Your killing of an unwanted pregnancy is not the doctor’s fault…

• Your yelling at your family is not your family’s fault…

We must also remember that the devil didn’t necessarily “make you do it.”  In fact, it is very likely the wickedness of our own heart led us to a sinful choice!  Jeremiah 17:9. 

We must take ownership of our own choices (without justification for what makes us look bad!).  Confess and repent where sin has been chosen…and rest in the One who able to do all.

Are you are walking a life journey that is simply hard, lonely, and too long?  Remember, Naomi has been on this path for 10 years!  As you take your own steps in life’s journey, remember 3 things:

1.      You cannot blame others for your own choices. 

2.      You will give an account to God for your choices.

3.      God alone will give you rest and provide your need.

Turning Back

A husband read an article to his wife about how women use 30,000 words a day to a man’s 15,000. The wife replied, “That’s because we have to repeat everything to men.” The husband turned to his wife and said, “What?”  Source Unknown

What was Naomi and her sons listening to that kept them in Moab for 10 years?!  Perhaps the better question would be, “What should they have been listening to?”

It is vital for the believer to have the right focus when looking to choose the right direction.

Remember:

• They are living in enemy country

• They are surrounded by worshippers of false gods

• 60 miles away from home (long way when traveled by camel)

• ALL these things will affect choices…yet somehow, Naomi heard something of home!  (v. 6)

Naomi has experienced some significant pressure in her life over the last 10 years.  Pressure is hard…but pressure can be used for our own good.

Pressure Points (Ruth 1:1-5)

• Husband Died

• Two Sons Died (after 10 years)

• Ties to Moab removed

Diamonds are formed under great pressure and heat. If these conditions do not exist, they are simply not formed. It is not that they will be low quality, or smaller in size, but they will not form. God brings His refining fire into our lives to create in us what He sees fit. When He sees our lack of character, He will bring into our lives what we need. So next time a fiery trial comes, thank God. He is producing exactly what He knows we need in our lives. The only difference between a diamond and a piece of coal is PRESSURE. (Source: the homiletics class of West Coast Baptist College)

God brings pressure points into our lives to bring about something beautiful.  The Lord is stirring in Naomi a work that will affect her, that will affect Ruth, and that will affect the family line of David.

A Fresh Look

These pressure points have been preparing Naomi’s heart for this news – “…for she had heard in the country of Moab how that the LORD had visited his people in giving them bread.”

Naomi was ready to hear this news.  She was ready to turn back to Bethlehem.  She was ready to leave Moab.  Naomi would still have much to work through in her heart and her relationship with God; however, God new she was ready for this first step.

Gold is one of the most valuable materials on earth. It has been used for centuries as money, but it also has many uses in industry, manufacturing, and even space flight. One of the traits that makes gold so useful is that it can be shaped and formed so easily. In fact, a single ounce of gold can be flattened out to cover three hundred square feet.

But gold ore dug out of the ground contains many other elements that must be removed prior to the gold being useful. The refining process for gold involves intense heat. Gold melts at a temperature of almost two thousand degrees Fahrenheit. That incredibly high temperature is required for gold to be ready to be used.

The Christian life involves much the same process. Sometimes we are surprised when “bad things happen to good people.” But the Scripture tells us that fiery trials are part of God’s refining process for our lives. Rather than griping or complaining when trials come, we should rejoice as we think of the end result, they will produce (James 1:1-5).

Naomi is not settled spiritually yet.  She is still be struggling (seen especially when she changes her name to Mara… “Bitter”)…but God is ready to use Naomi and turn her back to Him.  Movement to Christ is now taking place!

Where are you on your journey with the Lord? 

• Are you ready for fellowship with Him? 

• Are you wandering from Him?

• Are you being refined as a beautiful vessel?

How encouraging it is to see God take wrong choices made by Elimelech and turn them about to pour blessings on Naomi and Ruth! 

God is not finished with you yet!!  Sure, you may have made bad choices, sinful choices – but don’t stop there!  Confess and repent.  Run back to Christ.  Yield to His way.  Enjoy the blessing of victorious Christian living. 

• Do you see the Lord blessing His people again? 

• Do you see their peace in the midst of a storm?

• Do you see their genuine love for one another?

• Do you long for all that and more -- once again?

Come to the cross right now…accept His gift of forgiveness of sin and a home in heaven.

Come to His throne right now…ask for forgiveness, repent of sin, and restore your relationship with Jesus.

3 Places "MY WAY" Will Take Me

The other day my daughter and I needed to go to Plover.  When we arrived, we discovered that the road we needed was blocked off for repairs.  So, we were forced to go into the parking lot of a long line of stores.  In front of me -- was a pick-up truck.  It was traveling super slow.  We went past the first store and we still had to pass about 4 or 5 more stores following this truck.  I got this great idea that I would turn down the next isle of cars in the parking lot and go around the truck – or better yet, find another way out of the parking lot.  Do you know what I discovered?  There wasn’t another way!  I turned down that isle and drove the wide circle around the parking lot…while the truck drove in a terribly slow straight line.  Eventually, I was forced to return to the same path I left to get around the truck.  When I got back on that path, the same truck was still in front of me!  When I pulled up to the store for curbside service – you guessed it…the same truck was right in front of me!!

Elimelech tried to go around God’s way and follow his own way.  But it didn’t work out so well for him and his family. 

Are we trying to take the short cuts and faster lanes in our relationship with the Lord Jesus – but the Lord is saying, “NO.  I want you to follow me.” 

 It is so important that we yield to God’s way, instead of yielding to our own way. 

Determined Pursuits (1:2, 4)

Heathen Wives – not to take heathen wives (Deuteronomy 7:3; II Cor. 6:14-18)

Take a look at the 10 year picture…

• Elimelech dies close to his family’s arrival in Moab.

• Elimelech’s two sons die 10 years later.

• Elimelech’s wife, Naomi, has been in a foreign and forbidden country for 10 years without her husband!  She is left with two daughters-in-law and no other family…in a foreign, forbidden land! Keep in mind, the husband, and the oldest son after the husband’s death, would have led the home. Naomi would have followed their leadership.

Devastating Results (1:3, 5) – Death

His life…his sons’ lives…and his testimony all suffered destruction.

This. is. Heavy. News.  We often want to choose our way over God’s way…thinking it will be more satisfying and fulfilling.  So, where does Elimelech’s way take him AND his family?  Consider the 3 places “my way” will take me:

1.     My way takes me away from God’s people. 

Elimelech took his family away from the Israelites.  There is nothing to compare to “like-minded fellowship.”  In Moab, they would have found kind people.  However, there would have been a shortage of:

a.      God fearing people.

b.     People who would pray to God with them and for them.

c.      A church family. 

Some may say, “Elimelech was taking his onto the mission field.” This was not a missionary endeavor.  God doesn’t call you on a missionary endeavor that requires you to disobey Him!  Elimelech reasoned that the command of God to not marry the unsaved could be broken.  You don’t win people to Christ by disobeying the One you are pointing others to follow.

2.     My way takes me away from God’s will. 

God’s will was to stay away from Moab. God declares Moab to be His wash pot (Psalm 108:9).  Moab is called Israel’s enemy in Numbers 22; 25; Deuteronomy 23:3-6; Judges 3:12-14.

God’s will also clearly stated a command against marrying the unsaved.  Elimelech’s sons were of an age to marry.  They ended up marrying Moabite women.

In Words We Live By, Brian Burrell tells of an armed robber named Dennis Lee Curtis who was arrested in 1992 in Rapid City, South Dakota. Curtis apparently had scruples about his thievery. In his wallet the police found a sheet of paper on which was written the following code, sort of a robber's rules:

1. I will not kill anyone unless I have to.
2. I will take cash and food stamps—no checks.
3. I will rob only at night.
4. I will not wear a mask.
5. I will not rob mini-marts or 7-Eleven stores.
6. If I get chased by cops on foot, I will get away. If chased by a vehicle, I will not put the lives of innocent civilians on the line.
7. I will rob only seven months out of the year.
8. I will enjoy robbing from the rich to give to the poor.

This thief had a sense of morality, but it was flawed. When he stood before the court, he was not judged by the standards he had set for himself but by the higher law of the state.  Likewise, when we stand before God, we will not be judged by the code of morality we have written for ourselves but by God's perfect law.  (Source: Choice Contemporary Stories & Illustrations For Preachers, Teachers, & Writers, Craig Brian Larson)

Romans 8:31 reminds us, “If God be for us, who can be against us.”  God & I make a majority.  Why would the believer want to “switch teams” in the middle of battle (famine, desperate times, only God can provide the miracle that is needed)?  It is at this time that we need to run closer to God…not further away from Him.

3.      My way takes me away from God’s blessing.  

Elimelech took his family away from Judah because there was a famine.  He reasoned that His way (even though it required disobedience) would make things better.  Did things get better when Elimelech rejected God’s way?  No.  Elimelech died, his sons died, and Naomi is left with two unsaved daughters-in-law.  She had no followers of the One true God to comfort her, pray with her, and help her as a new widow. 

When Adam & Eve ate of the tree that God declared off limits, they were removed from the garden and hardships in life were introduced.  Genesis 3:13-19, 22-23.

When Moses chose unbelief and stroke the rock, he was not permitted to enter the promised land.  Numbers 20:10-12.

When Jacob chose to deceive, he ran away as his brother promised to kill him…but Jacob never again saw his mother (Rachel) alive.  Genesis 27:41-30:24.

When Ananias and Sapphira lied about the sale of their land, they died.  Acts 5.

Insisting on “MY WAY” over God’s Way proves to be challenging at best…and often destructive!

“There is a way that seemeth right unto a man, but the end thereof are the ways of death.” Proverbs 14:12

An inner-city church had an annual student recognition day. Normally, students would share about their educational experiences and then the pastor would get up and offer a few closing words. One year, the pastor’s words were a bit alarming. He stood up in front of all the young graduates and proud parents and said, "Children, you’re going to die! You may not think you’re going to die, but you’re going to die! One of these days they’re going to take you out to the cemetery, drop you in a hole, throw some dirt on your face, and go back to the church to eat potato salad.

When you were born, you alone were crying, and everybody else was happy. The important question I want to ask is this: When you die are you alone going to be happy, leaving everybody else crying? The answer depends on whether you live to get titles or testimonies. Will they list your degrees and awards, or will they tell about what you meant to their lives? Will you leave behind a newspaper column telling people how important you were, or will you leave behind crying people who give their testimonies about how they’ve lost the best friend they ever had? Will they talk about all the boards you sat on and things you owned, or will they talk about all the money you gave away that made a difference in this world?

"There’s nothing wrong with titles. Titles are good things to have. But if it ever comes down to a choice between a title or a testimony, go for the testimony …"

• Pharaoh may have had the title, but Moses had the testimony!

• Nebuchadnezzar may have had the title, but Daniel had the testimony! 

• Queen Jezebel may have had the title, but Elijah had the testimony! 

• Pilate may have had the title, but my Jesus had the testimony!

And then he asked a single question: "What will it be for your life?  Title or testimony?"  (Source: James Emery White, You Can Experience a Purposeful Life, 86-88)

Choose God’s way every time…even when life is hard. It is there you find peace, rest, and contentment.

3 Choices We Make in the Present That Will Impact the Future

When we look over history, we find that there are numerous periods of “dark times” through which our nation has walked.  The Spanish Flu…the great depression… attack on Pearl Harbor…the Vietnam war…9/11… and most recently COVID-19.  Isn’t it interesting that our perspective tends to change during desperate times? 

Consider this question: what did we do before desperate times that helps us during desperate times?   For example, planting gardens and canning a lot of the harvest prepares a family for leaner times with food in the pantry.  This is a physical preparation, but what about spiritual preparations?

The book of Ruth opens during the time of Judges…a very dark and confusing time.  It is very much a desperate time.  Israel spends much time running from God and experiencing God’s loving chastening. We might think…how bad could it have been?  Look at Judges 21:25!  This passage is a vivid picture of the time of Ruth, and yet a growing picture of our own modern-day society.  It is critical that we examine the choices we make today to see how they impact our choices of future “desperate times.”

Famine

Many a pastor has found himself in a similar situations to the following account.  He knows he is an ill-equipped, under-educated, time-strapped preacher.  And sometimes, the  church has no money to pay him regularly, the church building is worn and in need of repair….and to top it all off there is barely enough attendance to bother with weekly meetings.

Desperate times.  Many a pastor can give testimony to God’s powerful working – turning desperate times around for the glory of God.  How?  How does that “turning around” happen?  What are the decisions -- in moments of desperation – that become game changers?   Many pastors will point to the church coming together to pray as the game changer.

To whom or to what do you turn to in times of desperation?

Elimelech took desperate measures during these desperate times that were outside the will of God! What were these desperate measures? He moved his family — to Moab. Moab is a pagan country 60 miles east of Judah and the Dead Sea. Look at the description of Moab in the scriptures:

              Psalm 108:9 – “Moab is my washpot”

The Moabites descended from Lot through his incestuous relationship with one of his daughters (Genesis 19:36, 37). 

Moab was an enemy of Israel (Numbers 22; 25; Deuteronomy 23:3-6; Judges 3:12-14).

…and Elimelech was a Hebrew of the tribe of Judah.

These are desperate times indeed…but Elimelech turned to the wrong desperate measure! So.  What should the disciple of Jesus Christ do in desperate times?  How should he do it?  When should he do it?

3 Choices We Are Making Now That Will Determine Our Choices During Desperate Times

1. PREPARATION

Cultivate a growing relationship with the Lord during times of comfort (II Peter 3:18; Psalm 63:1; I Corinthians 3:1-7).  The time to BEGIN a deeper pursuit of the Lord is NOT during trials – although that is when many will begin pursuing the Lord. 

• Spiritual workouts prior to trials will grow spiritual muscle for times requiring greater spiritual strength. 

• The hardest trial will require the heaviest lifting – with regular spiritual workouts, you will be ready for something harder.

• Cold Hard Facts: If you are BEGINNING a deeper pursuit of the Lord after the arrival of hard times…

  • Praise the Lord!  You are yielding to God’s best way for you.  (Proverbs 16:6-7, 18-19; I Peter 5:6) 

  • Be honest with yourself.  You should have been pursuing God with greater affection before this point.  After all, it is commanded and needed much earlier than this.  (Psalm 34:14; 119:9-11; I Timothy 6:11; II Timothy 2:22)

  • Confess and Repent. (Proverbs 28:13)

  • Thank God for His patience, grace, mercy, and love for you (Lamentations 3:22-23; II Corinthians 12:9; Philippians 4:6-7)

2. PLEASING

Walk by faith, not by sight.  No one sees all the answers at the start…or even as they walk forward through the trials (Psalm 119:105).  It is faith in God that pleases God (Hebrews 11:6).

3. POWER

Seek God first (Matthew 6:33)…look for godly counsel (Proverbs 11:14)…the strength of community among a local church family is revealed during crisis.  Does your strength come from relationship with God?

The choices made today will impact your tomorrow.  Live with a stronger eternal view that grows with stronger focus on the Lord every day. 

To watch this sermon, go to my YouTube channel: Reset 2 Reach.

3 Reasons We Must Find Hope in Jesus

As of April 12, 2020, here are the top 20 google searches:

1. Facebook

2. YouTube

3. Amazon

4. Gmail

5. Google

6. Weather

7. Ebay

8. Yahoo

9. Walmart

10. Yahoo Mail

(You can find the rest of the list here: Top 20 Online Google Searches)

What are you searching for?  Did you know that the average internet user spends more than a quarter of their life online? This translate to about 6 hours and 40 minutes… per day.  (Source: Time Spent Online )

Seek the hope that is found only in Jesus!  But the simple question that comes from some is — Why?  Why should I seek hope in Jesus?  Consider these 3 Reasons to seek hope in Jesus:

1.   A Treasured Hope (v. 4)

The believer is considered the adopted child of God.  Acts 20:32; Ephesians 1:11, Ephesians 1:14, Ephesians 1:18; Colossians 1:12. Heaven is spoken of as the believer’s inheritance – proof of God’s love is seen in such an inheritance as this!!

• It is “incorruptible” – will never fade away; no decay (I Cor. 9:25)

• It is “undefiled” – will be pure; obtained honestly; won’t corrupt the soul; the eternal enjoyment of this inheritance will in no way defile the heart

• It “fadeth not away” – remains in its original state of splendor and brightness.

William Randolph Hearst was a very wealthy newspaper publisher who had an incredible collection of art. The Hearst mansion in northern California is a testament to his insatiable desire for artistic treasures. On one occasion he learned of some artwork he was determined to obtain. He sent his agent abroad to search for the treasure. After months of investigating, the agent reported that the treasure had been found. To further sweeten the find, Hearst learned that the relic wouldn’t cost him a dime. He already owned it. The rediscovered piece was in Hearst’s warehouse with many other treasures that had likewise never been uncrated. The desire for acquiring more can sometimes blind us from what we already possess.  (Source: Illustrations for Biblical Preaching, Michael Green)

When we buy a car and drive off the lot, the value has gone down.  When we buy a house, the water heater or furnace or roof will eventually decay and need repair.  HOWEVER, this is a treasure like no other.  It will never decay or rust or lose its shine – and it is available to all who believe in Jesus Christ!

o   The crown of glory, though worn for millions of ages, will not be dimmed

o   The golden streets will lose none of their luster

o   The flowers that bloom on the banks of the river of life will always be as rich in color, and as fragrant, as when we first beheld them.

And don’t miss this last phrase of I Peter 1:4 “reserved for you.” The One who holds this inheritance for the believer will surely bestow it on the believer!

So, consider those things you do not have that you have longed for (a better car…a better house…a better family…a better wardrobe) and compare them to what you do have because of Jesus Christ!  Rejoice!!  You are rich in Jesus! 

Live with a view of the many joys of your treasured hope in Jesus!

2.   A Guarded Hope (v. 5)

“Kept by His power” – the word kept means to keep, as in a garrison or fortress.  This is a military term. 

The meaning is, that they were weak in themselves, and were surrounded by temptations; and that the only reason why they were preserved was, that God exerted his power to keep them. The only reason which any Christian can have to hope they will ever reach heaven, is the fact that God keeps them by his own power!

3.   A Joyous Hope (v. 6a)

The Greeks had a race in their Olympic games that was unique. The winner was not the runner who finished first. It was the runner who finished with his torch still lit. I want to run all the way with the flame of my torch still lit for Him.  (Source: J. Stowell, Fan The Flame, Moody, 1986, p. 32).

What keeps you going…what keeps you serving the Lord?

This future inheritance was a source of the highest joy; so, amidst all the persecution they suffered…they would keep going.  They knew their current situation would be brief, but what was coming would last forever!

3 Ways to Stay Consistent in Fast Changing Times

1.    Rehearse what you do have! Treasure in Jesus. Isaiah 26:3-4

2.    Stand close to your Guard! Depend on God. Gen. 18:14a; Col. 1:16

3.    Rejoice in what you know!  This is temporary.  What I have with Jesus on earth is better than any pleasure sin can afford me…What is coming in heaven with Jesus is FAR better. Jer. 29:11; Jer. 31:3; Prov. 3:5-8

My Hope is Jesus, the anchor of my soul!

My hope is built on nothing less; Than Jesus’ blood and righteousness

I dare not trust the sweetest frame; But wholly lean on Jesus’ name

On Christ the solid rock I stand; All other ground is sinking sand…

All other ground is sinking sand!

Seek the hope that is found in Jesus Christ!

Living Hope

One night at dinner a man, who had spent many summers in Maine, fascinated his companions by telling of his experiences in a little town named Flagstaff. The town was to be flooded, as part of a large lake for which a dam was being built. In the months before it was to be flooded, all improvements and repairs in the whole town were stopped. What was the use of painting a house if it were to be covered with water in six months? Why repair anything when the whole village was to be wiped out? So, week by week, the whole town became more and more bedraggled, more gone to seed, more woebegone. Then he added by way of explanation: "Where there is no faith in the future, there is no power in the present."  (Source: Halford E. Luccock, Unfinished Business.)

Today we have faith in the One who holds the future…the One who knows the end from the beginning…the One who is able to care for our every need and promises to supply our every need. The believer must seek no other hope than the hope found in Jesus Christ!

The Vice-President of a well-known college shared a story at the “Parent’s Weekend” during opening week of the fall semester.  The true  story was of a college student who told her parents she couldn’t eat lunch because of her schedule and could never start her homework until 10 PM each evening because of college requirements demanding her time.  The parents of this college student called the college … and they were upset!  The Vice-President listened to their elevated concerns and assured them he would investigate and get back to them the next day.  What did the Vice-President find out?  He discovered context.  He found out the back story to these accusations.  He discovered this young lady didn’t have class at 11 AM and could have lunch then (if she wanted to).  He discovered she had 4 hours open with no scheduled classes on Tuesdays and Thursdays, but she had chosen to use that time for socializing.  Although she often had campus requirements during the evenings, she had chosen to give higher priority to socializing than her course work.  Once the Vice-President shared this back story with the parents, they were much calmer understanding the whole picture…and they also assured the Vice-President they would be talking to their daughter and advising her in a different way (now having the whole story).

The background to any specific situation always helps color in the picture with far more detail and understanding.  Consider the background to I Peter  chapter 1.

Background Considerations:

1.      Persecution

This epistle is addressed to those walking through severe times of persecution. Consider these passages: 1 Peter 1:6-7; 1 Peter 3:14; 1 Peter 4:1, 1 Peter 4:12-19.

2.     Edification

They are the elect by God’s foreknowledge (I Peter 1:2)

They have a living hope (I Peter 1:3)

They have an inheritance (I Peter 1:3-6)

3.     Motivation

They can’t lose sight of their hope & the love of their unseen Savior (I Peter 1:6, 8)

They will see their salvation (I Peter 1:9)

It is one of these encouragements the divinely inspired apostle Peter mentions that we will take time to consider today: a lively hope by the resurrection!

A Living Hope (I Peter 1:3)

Archaeologists have dug up first century cemeteries in Greece and Rome and have found many tomb stones that bear the Greek or Latin inscription for “No hope.” Imagine living your entire life with no hope! Imagine going to your death, to that eternal night, with no hope!  (Source: Unknown)

The word “lively” in today’s usage often refers to active, animated, or quick; however, I Peter 1 it means LIVING. 

Consider Peter’s earlier experiences in John 20:1-10 as he writes these inspired words.  He didn’t understand exactly what was going on, but he had the evidence of the resurrection right before him!

John 20:18 – Mary Magdalene tells the disciples she saw the Lord

John 20:19-24 – Jesus appears in a room with a closed door.  The doors were closed because of fear of the Jews. Jesus showed them His hands and side – He’s alive…He is Risen!!  At that moment everything changes from thoughts of fear to victory!!  Peter would soon after receive his commission from the Lord – “Go!”

The hope of salvation – forgiveness of sin and a home in heaven – isn’t dependent upon a dead man.  The hope of salvation is a living hope…this living hope is:

Allowed by God’s abundant mercy…abundant refers to “much” -- no small amount. They had no claim to God’s favor, and the favor they received was great! 

Mankind isn’t saved because of our favor with God

Mankind isn’t saved because it wouldn’t be right for God to withhold such favor (Ephesians 2:4).

Living Hope is secured by Jesus’ resurrection.

The resurrection of the Lord Jesus is the foundation of our hope. It was a confirmation of what he declared as truth when he lived.

It was a proof of the doctrine of the immortality of the soul (I Corinthians 9:24-25)

It was a pledge that all who are united to him will be raised up. See the 2 Timothy 1:10; 1 Thessalonians 4:14.

“If there is anything for which a man should be grateful, it is that God has so loved him as to give him the hope of eternal life; and since he has had an eternal purpose to do this, …our gratitude should be PROPORTIONALLY INCREASED.” (Source: Barnes Notes Commentary)

The believer will be raised up the last day…eternity in heaven’s glory is yet before us…The God of all -- loved you so much that this was His plan from the beginning!!

Oh believer, give your gratitude with your voice of praise! 

Give your gratitude with your worship as His servant! 

Give your gratitude with your obedient service! (Hebrews 13:15)

The Right Mindset: 4 Potential Weaknesses in My Relationship with God

Benjamin Spock led the way among child rearing professionals in instructing parents not to discipline their children. He said that doing so would damage children’s ego. Later in his life he realized that he had made a mistake and said:

“We have reared a generation of brats. Parents aren’t firm enough with their children for fear of losing their love or incurring their resentment. This is a cruel deprivation that we professionals have imposed on mothers and fathers. Of course, we did it with the best of intentions. We didn’t realize until it was too late how our know-it-all attitude was undermining the self-assurance of parents.”  Source: Baptist Press, November, 6, 2007…

Dr. Spock acknowledged that his “know-it-all” mindset had a negative impact on society.  What is your mindset as you go through the average day?  

• Is it one of “who cares!”

• Is it one of “me first!”

• Is it one that sees everything through the filter of bitterness?

• Is it one of “work hard for God”

• Is it one of love God and others

What kind of impact does your mindset have on society?  You may never know the extent of your impact for Christ this side of glory. So, consider this as well:  Your mindset reflects your view of God.

Luke 18:1 calls us to a mindset of prayer.  It is vital that we live in a position / attitude / mindset of prayer!

A Prayerful Mindset

Luke 18:1 tells us that Jesus was about to tell a story to communicate an important truth.  Here’s the truth: Pray…and be determined to keep praying!  We must be in the mindset of coming to God in prayer for every circumstance.

      ”men ought always to pray” – pray in every circumstance

      “and not to faint” – not to lose heart

We don’t need to pray about what the Bible has already commanded – we don’t have to pray about whether we should:

…go to church

…share the saving grace of Jesus with others

…get Baptized

…read our Bibles

…live for God

But outside such an understanding we are to pray in every circumstance -- “not loosing heart.”  When do we lose heart…when do we faint – when we loose sight of God or don’t know Him as He is…when we stop rehearsing the reality of the person of the One true God!

A Divine Mindset

Your view of God affects your view of everything else!  A proper Divine mindset will cultivate and strengthen a prayerful mindset.  Luke 18:2 tells us the problem. The judge did not fear God — no wonder this judge was described as “unjust!” This unjust judge’s view of God was all wrong!

Famed and later disgraced cyclist, Lance Armstrong, went through a challenging bout of cancer.  After he was declared in remission and back in cycling competitions, a reporter asked him if he relied on God or friends to help him get through the dark path of cancer.  His answer was something like this, “God had nothing to with it.  I won those medals. I fought cancer and won. I did all the work.”  However, it was later discovered that he cheated to achieve his medals and was publicly disgraced.

How do you view God?  Not sure?  Take a look at your actions and habits…they will tell you and others of your view of God.  The fear of God is only the beginning of wisdom (Prov. 9:10)

A Continual Mindset

Luke 18:3-5. Do you see how the widow continues to come to the unjust judge? A Divine mindset that cultivates a prayerful mindset brings us to a continual mindset. 

This spiritual discipline ought not be a haphazard habit, or a hot and cold relationship with God.  If our prayer life is stirred to greater heights only when hardships enter our lives, then praise God for hardships!

The hardships are temporary.  Relationship with God is eternal.

The Israelites demonstrate this hot and cold relationship with God repeatedly.  The Old Testament book of Judges reviews this struggle in pain staking detail!  The Israelites at walking with God…then they wander and embrace idolatry…then they experience hardship (bondage under their enemies)…then they cry out to God…then God shows His mercy.  This cycle is repeated many times!

Consider these 4 potential weaknesses about our relationship with God from the book of Judges:

1. We can tend to lean toward choosing our view of God based on our current comfort levels

2. We can tend to lean towards wandering away from God during good or comfortable times.

3. We can find our view of God is often blocked by our own selfishness and pride.

4. We can often delay confessing and repenting of our sin  because we find ourselves too comfortable in our wanderings from God.  

A continual mindset requires right rehearsing.  When you and I start thinking things like: “I know God’s Word says this, but I need this.  God will understand.”  When we start rehearsing these kinds of things, we are actively…purposely … wandering from God.  At that point, our prayer life will not be what God leads us to have, nor will it be what we need!  We need to double check what our minds our rehearsing – “for out of it are the issues of life!” (Prov. 4:23 … Phil. 4:8)

A Rewarded Mindset

Luke 18:7-8. Our relationship with God is crucial! He is the only One who can. God and God alone is our need! A Divine mindset cultivates the prayerful mindset and then nurtures a continual mindset — this all yields rewarded mindset.

The widow comes to the unjust judge repeatedly.  What does her continual mindset reap with an unjust judge?  Her request is granted. We are called to come to the Lord (the just judge) repeatedly.  Our continual mindset with the Lord is not only commanded by God, but it also pleases God!

A Faithful Mindset

Luke 18:8.

“Even to the end there will still be ground for the same complaint of weakness of faith. – Matthew Henry

So, we return to the same question we started with, “What kind of impact does your daily mindset or attitude have on society?”

My family always called my grandmother - “Gram.” Gram was a prayer warrior! She would often say that the first thing she does in the morning is pray…and she would pray about everything and everyone. If you knew Gram, she was probably praying for you! Gram had 5 children, 18 grandchildren, and more than 40 great-grandchildren. She prayed for them all. She also prayed over the simplest of things. If she couldn’t find her glasses, she would pray for the Lord to help her find her glasses — she says she would then turn around and her glasses would be right there!

A prayerful mindset will infiltrate every area of our lives when a sharper view of God is rehearsed daily. Sharpen your view of God today.

Forgiving Power: 6 Steps to Confront Others Biblically

The scene can be all too familiar.  Another believer says some hurtful words to you or about you to another…they tear down your reputation…they speak as one knowing the situation to others but in truth they know very little information and are missing much of the complete story.  What do you do when others are talking about you behind your back and spreading lies?

You approach the source and in love ask them if these things are true and if at the point, they ask for your forgiveness – you do just that – you forgive them.  It is vital that we forgive as Christ has forgiven us!…but it isn’t always the easy path to walk! See what Jesus says in Luke 17.

Consequences of the Action (Luke 17:1-2)

We will give offense (James 3:1-2). The word “offend” means to cause to stumble or fall into temptation.

We are currently in a worldwide pandemic.  Our President of the US has had to make some tough decisions.  Decisions that are unprecedented. These decisions are unprecedented because this pandemic is like nothing we have seen in our life time (COVID19). There is no surprise that everyone doesn’t agree with his decisions!  If he says, “Yes” – people are going to be offended…if he says, “No,” – people are going to be offended.

We cannot lead our homes, our workplaces, and our church with a mindset of what will please the most people.  That is the wrong target…with the wrong motivation...and it will yields troubling outcomes.  The church must lead with a mindset of what will draw me closer to Jesus.  Such a motivation (what draws me closer to Jesus) will draw me to excellence…it will draw me to holiness…it will draw me to love…it will draw me closer to others who have differing preferences when they draw close to Jesus as well!

We will offend with:

• Actions

• Words

• Attitudes

• Absence

• Presence

Some may say or think… “then there is no use in trying if we most certainly will offend… right?” What do you think? Does that sound like wise counsel? Let’s follow that logic for a moment.

My room will just get a mess again…why make it clean?

My body will just get dirty again…why take a shower?

My car will just run out of gas again…why fill it up with gas?

Even though no human is without fault, we cannot forget there are consequences to our actions!  We will suffer punishment. The warning of punishment is issued to the offender.

But more importantly – “giving up”  or “why even try” are not our target!  We are called to a higher purpose…to higher ground.  As believers, we have the Spirit of God dwelling within us.  We are without excuse! So, do not take lightly this warning! Galatians 6:7-8.

The Response of the Action (Luke 17:3-5)

The Confrontation. Don’t let offenses fester in your heart into a big ball of bitterness (Hebrews 12:14-15) – but don’t be so easily offended at every look and comment made as well (Psalm 119:165)! 

However, since we know offenses will cross our path, how do we handle them? What is our game plan?

6 Steps to Confront Others Biblically

1.  Seek the Lord on the matter (prayer and scripture) — Ps. 63:1; Matt. 6:33

2.  Be certain there is no fault of your own left unconfessed — Matt. 7:3-5

3. Be certain you are confronting sin and not personal preference - Luke 17:3

4. Approach Spirit-filled to the best of your knowledge - II Tim. 3:16

6. Plead the need for making right before God - Matt. 18:15-20

It is a lot easier to write out this game plan than it is to implement it. Humanly speaking, this is — no doubt — a difficult response, humanly speaking!  This is a spiritual work needing spiritual enabling. Ephesians 4:32; 5:18. And now look at Luke 17:5. The apostles acknowledge the daunting instruction with verse 5, “Increase our faith!”

The Necessity of the Action (Luke 17:6)

The apostles hit it right on the head, but slipped off and hit their thumb as well!  Yes, faith in the Lord for His enabling grace is of absolute necessity; however, it is not how much (as in quantity) but how long (as in duration) that faith is understood best in the scriptures!

The Hall of Faith in Hebrews rehearses the testimony of faith in God. Take a look at Hebrews 11:

v. 7  -Noah - waited 120 years for God’s announced judgement

v. 11-Sarah - waited until old age before she conceived

v. 13-Not having received the promises but having seen them afar off!

v. 22 –Moses - 40 years in the wilderness with many complainers

v. 32-David - anointed King, but chased by Saul for a long time.

Faith is not “how much.” Faith is “how long.” So, please stop for a moment.  Be still.  Listen to God. Delay the usual swift human response of denial.  Just stop and consider honestly before God:

Are there offenses that still fester in your heart? 

Is there someone you need to ask for forgiveness? 

Is there someone you need to forgive? 

Are we on praying ground having forgiven others as Christ as forgiven us?

 Follow your gracious, merciful God (Luke 6:36) and forgive others.