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The Context of the Promises of God: What Does God Mean?

By
Ryan Churchill
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promises of god

Today’s Scripture Lesson: Psalms 37, 38

Today, we continue our study in the Book of Psalms with the 37th and 38th Psalms. As always I hope you’ll take the time on your own to read these two chapters.

Although the material is usually pretty straightforward, reading the Psalms can be a challenge. This is most often the case for me when God lays one simple question on my heart, “Do you believe that?” From there, things can go many directions.

Like many of the Psalms, the 37th Psalm includes the “promises” of God revealed by David. Allow me to list just a few:

  • the arms of the wicked will be broken
  • the Lord sustains the righteous
  • the wicked will perish
  • those blessed by Him will inherit the land
  • those cursed by Him will be cut off
  • He will exalt you to inherit the land

I can’t tell you the number of times I see social media posts that include one short Scripture. Sometimes it’s a little figurine with a verse of the day. It isn’t uncommon that the verse of the day or short Scripture reveals one of the promises of God from the Psalms. They are, after all, encouraging and typically serve as good motivation for the day.

The Context of God’s Promises Matters

Don’t misunderstand me. I do believe that “all Scripture is inspired by God and profitable.” But, I also believe the rest of that verse, too, as well as the next verse. Scripture is “for teaching, for correction, for training in righteousness, so that the man of God may be adequate, equipped for every good work.” (2 Timothy 3:16-17)

Do you see the difference between reading something in context and reading it out of context?  When we read the “promises” of God, are we reading them in context? There is a danger in failing to do so.

When we fail to read in context, we begin to ask questions like:

  • Where’s my inheritance, God?
  • When are You going to exalt me, God?
  • When are You going to cut off my enemies, God?
  • When are the arms of my enemy going to be broken, God?

These questions are very often preceded by, “look at everything I’ve done and gone through, God. Look at what I’ve done for You, God.”

We attempt to establish a position where we can leverage God into doing our bidding. Leveraging God essentially says, “by following the rules and being good by our standards, God owes us something.”

When we ask those questions, we’re feeding a cycle of doubt. I’m not saying you shouldn’t pray about and confess the questions and doubts you have, but by dwelling on those questions, you’re actually making matters worse.

Doubt has a negative effect on our perspective and our ability to discern God’s context. It is very difficult to find the Psalms uplifting and encouraging when you’re in the cycle of doubt.

What is the Focus of Your Fulfillment?

Psalm 38 offers one of the greatest lines I’ve ever read. It’s a fascinating line because if you read it out of context, the line is simply uplifting and encouraging for the moment. The line comes from verse 9, “Lord, all my desire is before You; and my sighing is not hidden from you.” It sounds like God knows what you want and He’s going to give it to you. Yay, God! I’m getting that jet ski I always wanted.

But, what happens when we read it in the context of Jesus being the true promise of the Old Testament? What happens when we read it in the context that Jesus is our inheritance, that He defeated the enemy, that He is our exaltation?  Reading, “Lord, all my desire is before You; and my sighing is not hidden from you” is no longer a matter of having hope that I’m going to get all the stuff I want. Now, it presents a question which has an answer that isn’t hidden from God, “where are you going in order to find fulfillment?” When the answer isn’t Jesus and it isn’t God the Father, the moment is convicting.

Ecclesiastes 3:11 tells us, “…He has also set eternity in their heart…” In other words, God has set a deep desire for eternity with Him upon our hearts. We may seek fulfillment elsewhere, but we’re merely attempting to fill a God-sized spiritual void by physical means.

Time and time again in the Psalms, God tells us He plans to give us the desire of our hearts. That’s why Psalms 38:9 is so fascinating. When you read it in the context of a babe lying in a manger, in the context of the New Covenant, in the context of the man upon the cross, or in the context of a risen Savior – it isn’t just convicting, it is exultant throughout eternity.

So, What’s the Play Call?

Go into the quiet place and ask God to reveal the deepest desires of your heart. Ask Him to reveal all the ways you’ve been attempting to fill that void. And, I pray that the “Promise” fulfilled in Jesus Christ will be your fulfillment all the days of your life.

God Bless!

3 Things You Should Know Before Giving Intermittent Fasting a Go

By
Jennifer Hunt, RDN, LD
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intermittent fasting

Is Intermittent Fasting (IF) for You?

intermittent fastingIntermittent fasting is the new diet trend capturing everyone’s attention with claims that it will help you lose weight, regulate hormones, improve your body composition (lean body mass), boost your metabolism, and prolong your life.  Truth be told – a lot of the research is quite young with small human sample sizes. And, many of these studies are short term, failing to show whether this ‘fad’ is actually a sustainable eating pattern individuals can stick to for years.

Interestingly, it is creating a lot of division among healthcare providers, in particular, Registered Dietitian Nutritionists.  Some are all in, helping clients and patients apply the principles within their lifestyle. Others are proclaiming it another calorie-restrictive ‘fad’ diet with some inflated claims and may have some potential harm.

Chances are, you have tried it or know someone who has. Intermittent fasting is an umbrella term that houses several different types of fasting.  Some of these different approaches include:

The 16:8 Method

This method of fasting includes an 8-hour window for eating (or ‘feeding’), but fasting occurs for the remaining 16 hours of the day. For example, someone would skip breakfast and eat between 11am-7pm. Some individuals follow this method but create an even smaller feeding window of 4 hours.

The 5:2 Diet

Individuals who follow this method eat ‘regularly’ on 5 days a week and 2 days they ‘fast’ consuming no more than about 500 calories.

24-Hour Fasting

This method involves a 24-hour fast 1-2 times per week.

Simply, intermittent fasting, in whatever form practiced, doesn’t specify which foods to eat but instead when to eat.

Of course, it’s important to note that even though you are eliminating meals or restricting your food consumption, your body still needs certain nutrients on a regular basis.  Do you tend towards iron deficiency anemia? Does your GI tract work best with a high fiber diet? Do you tend to have low blood sugar when you haven’t eaten for several hours?

Remember, this is a diet.  There are no long-term studies out there looking at how well people keep the weight off or long-term effects from following this eating plan.  We don’t know about the sustainability of this diet. But, if you are wondering if you will lose weight, you probably will, at least initially.

Fad or Fix

intermittent fastingWe know that a majority of diets fail and most everyone regains the weight within 1-5 years. Is intermittent fasting just another one of those diets that will fail us?  We don’t really know.

It’s true that some of the research sounds promising, especially if you have some concerns about your weight or your health. It’s true that IF is a structured eating pattern that is pretty simple to enforce. But, before you decide to try out Intermittent Fasting for yourself, there are a few things you should consider first:

1. Is hunger good or bad?

Pain, the need to urinate, thirst, redness and swelling, hunger… all of these are signals your body gives you to send you a specific message.  IF teaches you to deny these innate body signals. Instead of hunger being a neutral message, communicating that your body needs nourishment and energy, the intermittent fasting approach requires you to conform to a dietary pattern as a means of controlling your body.

Does your body need controlling?  When we are wholly submitted to God, we are Spirit-led and self-control is a natural result or fruit (Galatians 5:22-23).  Sounds like complete surrender is what we really need!

Do you think God gave you these signals on accident?  Or, to harm you? Or, tease you?

Hunger isn’t your enemy, like some might propose.  It isn’t bad. It isn’t out to get you. Hunger isn’t out to tempt you to binge on a box of Oreos or a bag of Doritos.  Don’t give it that much power. It’s just a signal – a completely natural, neutral signal that your body is needing energy.  

When I asked one woman at my local gym if she gets hungry during her fasting period she replied, “Oh, you just chase it with water and within 15 minutes you forget about it!”  Is that the goal? To simply forget and neglect our body so we can move on with our day?

My body is what allows me to love others well and live out my purpose.  I don’t want to neglect it – I want to care for it well.

Some might wonder then, how quickly do I need to respond to this signal?  Is it ever okay or healthy to deny my body what it wants? Yes – it’s okay to say ‘No.’  These questions can help you decide how to wisely respond:

  • What does my body want right now?
  • What does my body need right now?
  • Will delaying my response to this signal in any way influence how I live, serve, and love?

For example, if you are ‘hangry’ because you haven’t eaten in hours, do you find yourself snapping at your kids? Can you concentrate in your meetings and contribute, create, and excel?

If practicing intermittent fasting doesn’t help you be a more amazing, energetic and generous person, it might be worth reconsidering this eating pattern.

2. What Eating Pattern Are You Modeling for Your Kids?

“More is caught than taught.” – Dave Ramsey.

intermittent fastingThe way we live, the words we speak, the actions we commit – they do not go unnoticed. In fact, they are often imitated by our children. What if your pre-teen asks to do IF with you? What if you begin noticing that your 6th grader keeps bringing home a lunchbox with uneaten food? Are you ready and willing to engage with your child or teen if they challenge you on the hypocrisy of making them do something you refuse to do?

Kids are looking to fit in, feel beautiful, and attract the attention they crave.  In a diet-crazed culture, they are fed daily messages that their size and physicality matter.  As Believers, we are teaching our children that the foundation of their identity is Christ – He is everything and more than enough. But, if they see us chasing weight loss or slimness, it’s natural for them to want to join in or to think that this quest is normal and good.

As the head of your household, you get to decide.  What will you model? What will you teach? Food choices, eating patterns, rest, play, movement –  How can you demonstrate what ‘healthy’ really looks like?  

3. What does a sustainable eating pattern look like to you?

If you want an eating and lifestyle plan that makes you feel good and promotes healthy living, it’s essential to choose what you can see yourself doing over the next few decades. I mean, if you plan on living a long time, then your eating plan needs to be flexible enough for the unexpected and structured enough to help you feel energized and vibrant.

Depending on the fasting method chosen, birthdays, holidays, vacations, gatherings and even family meals may be affected.  We know that more than 90% of diets fail. This means that most of us are not able to continue following them and at some point give up before having reached a goal.  Research also shows that weight regain is common among most individuals within 1-5 years, and ⅓ to ⅔ of dieters regain MORE weight than they lost on their diet.  

If you want to beat the odds, because they definitely aren’t in your favor, you must choose food and lifestyle behaviors that are sustainable.

So, what’s the play call?

You always get to choose.  There is no formula for stewarding your body.  Since it houses the presence of God, you get to determine how to nourish it, care for it and celebrate it so that it allows you to run your race well.  

But, in a culture inundated with diets and messaging that our size matters, you must refuse to get sucked in. If you are still interested in trying this eating style out, here are a few things to do:

  1. Set up an appointment with a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist; he/she can help you make sure you are able to meet your daily nutrient needs and answer your questions.
  2. Consider an 8- or 10-hour window for meals.  For example, meals from 9am-7pm or 10am-8pm. This type of window allows you to set boundaries on night snacking (if this is an issue for you), but also allows you to enjoy a family dinner together.
  3. Make sure you are already practicing nourishing, life-giving habits like eating whole foods, drinking plenty of water, moving daily, and carving out time for rest.  If these practices aren’t already in place, focus on these first.
  4. Pray about it. Your Father knows you inside and out – He wants you to flourish and feel amazing!

But if any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all generously and without reproach, and it will be given to him. — James 1:5 (NASB)

 

I’m a Christian, Should I Meditate?

By
Team Jesus
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meditation

Should Christians Meditate?

Did you know that the word meditate is mentioned in more than 20 scriptures in the Bible?  Although many of us hear about meditation in the mainstream wellness arena, meditation is more than just relaxing.

The Bible is clear that we should meditate on God’s Word day and night so that we will obey it, according to Joshua 1:8. This scripture reveals the clear mind-body connection between thoughts and action.  The mind-body connection is divine and created by God.

Meditation is natural.  For most of us, it’s not a matter of how do we meditate, but what do we meditate on.

We are reminded in Psalms 19:14 that meditation flows from the heart and is visible to God.  Christian meditation, in particular, is a powerful practice that is led by a heart surrendered to God and directed by the mind.

Psychology Today defines meditation as the practice of turning your attention to a single point of reference.  It can involve focusing on the breath, on bodily sensations, or on a word or phrase.  In other words, meditation means turning your attention away from distracting thoughts and focusing on the present moment.

What or Who Has Your Focus?

Did you know that worry is a form of meditation? Hard to believe but it’s true!

When we worry we turn our attention towards fear.  Fear of the known and the unknown.  We ponder every angle of a situation until the fear and the situation both become larger than life.  And, as the saying goes, whatever you give your time and attention to increases in size – and worry is no different.

In the same way, we can choose to meditate on God’s word – allowing it to become large in our lives, invoking change in our hearts, and directing our actions.  This is the beauty of the mind-body connection. We can embrace meditation as our God-given gift that we can use to draw us closer to God – or closer to our problems.

So, What’s the Play Call?

Meditate On These Things

Rick Warren, in the Purpose Driven Life describes meditation as focused thinking.  Consider focusing on Philippians 4:8 throughout your day and meditating on the various elements of the scripture listed below:

Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable-if anything is excellent or praiseworthy-think about such things.

  • God is True (John 3:33)
  • Noble.
  • Right.
  • Pure.
  • Lovely.
  • Admirable
  • Excellent
  • Praiseworthy

Meditating on these God qualities plants seeds in our heart that will grow over time, manifesting a thought life that honors God and births spiritual and mental maturity.

 

Sherrell Moore-Tucker is a Wellness Professional, Writer, and Registered Yoga Instructor with the National Yoga Alliance and Holy Yoga Ministries.  Sherrell provides wellness services which tend to a person’s spiritual, mental, and physical well-being while providing accessible tools for managing stress. Join the movement and learn more about how to “Breathe in, Stress Out” at www.sherrellmooretucker.com.

How to Get Rid of Food Guilt for Good

By
Jennifer Hunt, RDN, LD
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food guilt

“I was so bad.  I shouldn’t have had that dessert.”
“Even though I was full, I finished the rest of my plate.  Guess I’ll have to make up for it tomorrow.”
“Don’t tell your father about our treat this afternoon.  It will be our little secret.”
“Tomorrow my jeans will remind me of what I ate today.”

Food guilt is common. Everyone has experienced it at some point – a specific action or behavior that elicits a sense of deep remorse and regret.  It can create feelings of shame and even worry.  Sometimes it compels us to hide and pretend “it” didn’t happen.

As Believers, we know that “there is no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus” (Romans 8:1) – so why do we still feel guilt?  How can we escape the feelings that entrap us and hold us captive, preventing forward movement?

Food guilt not only has the power to set us back, but it can push us back into a cycle of restricting and binging.  Instead of living a healthy lifestyle, we return to striving for ‘good days’ and limiting the number of ‘bad days’ on the calendar.  Some people stay in this cycle their entire life, never breaking free.

It is for freedom that Christ has set us free. Stand firm, then, and do not let yourselves be burdened again by a yoke of slavery.  Galatians 5:1 (NIV)

It was for this freedom that Christ set us free [completely liberating us]; therefore keep standing firm and do not be subject again to a yoke of slavery [which you once removed]. Galatians 5:1 (AMP)

Interestingly, it is possible to be “burdened again to a yoke of slavery” even after becoming a Child of God.  We are called to live free, but we have a choice.

Do a Walk Check

As we look further into Galatians 5, Paul charges us to “walk in the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the flesh.”  And the fruit of the Spirit – the actual, visible sign of walking “in the Spirit” is self-control.  

Wishing for more self-control to avoid over-eating or making unwise choices gets you nowhere.  Only “walking in the Spirit” yields the fruit you want.

To get rid of food guilt – for good – you have to commit your fleshly desires to the only One who is able to help you walk out freedom each and every day.  We know that sowing and reaping hold true – it’s a law.  But, we also know that walking in the Spirit allows us to overcome the lusts of the flesh (Galatians 5:16).

So, what exactly does this look like in real life?  Here are some practical ways you can exercise mental freedom in the area of food:

Choose Complete Surrender

peaceThis is where most of us go wrong – we choose more control, structure, and rituals over ultimate surrender to the only One who knows best.  We look for formulas, meal plans, books, fitness programs, and healthcare professionals to “save” us and solve our mental turmoil over the next best step.  But, when we lay aside all the unknowns and questions in complete surrender, only then do we allow our Heavenly Father to step in and take charge. 

Food guilt is in response to actions or inaction – specifically, ones that don’t make us feel good.  A natural response is to reprimand ourselves and create more rules and restrictions. While this form of behavior modification may work temporarily, it doesn’t work long term because it doesn’t address the heart.  

Whoever finds their life will lose it, and whoever loses their life for my sake will find it. Matthew 10:39 (NIV)

If we ‘think’ we have found the right way, we really haven’t – our ways don’t work for long. But, in complete surrender, God will make the way known.

If guilt is condemning you of all you haven’t done, ‘should do,’ or didn’t do well enough, don’t expect a more controlled lifestyle to become the solution to better self-control.  While it sounds counter-intuitive, giving up complete control allows God to swoop in and lead you to your next step of freedom.

Become Intentional

Intentional people decide before acting.
Intentional people value long-term expectations over short-term gratification.
Intentional people prepare for the rough days.
Intentional people are not deceived by the allure of momentary pleasure.

The Ephesians were warned to “take up the whole armor of God to withstand in the evil day and having done all, to stand firm.” (Ephesians 6:13).  To think that we are immune from mental, emotional, and physical battles is absurd and untrue.  

Guilt can be real or imagined.  In fact, we can accept a guilty conscience due to conversations, perceptions, and actions of others.  But, when we become more intentional about our own actions and beliefs about ourselves, it allows those guilt-ridden feelings to slide off us easier.

Pray Before Eating

It is a common act to bless the food before eating, but how many of us really pray?  

This is a prime opportunity to speak truth, thank God, bless the food, and connect with the One who actually made your body. He knows the tiny details of how your body works, responds, and behaves.  And, He created food to tantalize your taste buds and to be enjoyed.  It was proclaimed to mankind that the food He created was ‘good’!  

However, many of us have turned the blessing into an insignificant ritual.  We rush through it saying the same phrases we’ve said for the last 5 years, without investing any thought or putting any real meaning into it.  Like brushing our teeth, it has become a routine, a specific pattern in a long list of daily actions.  

But you can change that!

Prayer is an intimate way to connect with our Creator, the One who knows us, sees us, formed us.  He wants food experiences to be pleasurable, delicious, and an opportunity to nourish the body He gave us!  Prayer before a meal can be much more than a blessing. It can become an opportunity to submit our bodies to Christ, ask for discernment and wisdom, thank God for body signals, and celebrate the remarkable flavors of his edible creation.  

He doesn’t want you to get up from the table with food guilt.  Isn’t it refreshing to know that even through all the distractions during a meal, He can actually signal to you when your body has had enough?  What freedom!  What confidence!

So, what’s the play call?

First, stop beating yourself up – your value is not in what you do, but who you are. YOU are a child of the Most High King – own it because this identity is yours!

Your Daddy didn’t call you to a life of perfection. He invited you to daily Spirit living.  He gave us a keychain with specific keys to unlock a rich, abundant life of power.  You don’t have to live under the control of food guilt.  Conviction can lead to repentance, but don’t stop there.  

Choose to become a powerful person, not dominated by feelings of regret and guilt, but motivated by the Spirit.  

Repent.  Accept grace and forgiveness. And then recommit to walking in the Spirit.  Food guilt will still come knocking at times to undermine your authority.  But, you will have truth – your ticket to freedom.  

Are You Really Prepared for What You Prayed For?

By
Jeannette Tyson
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spiritual warfare

Are you ready?

Many of us get so used to being in “want” that we don’t have a clue what to do when we finally get those things we asked for.

Have you prepared for what you’re asking the Lord to do in your life? God has told me that there are a lot of things He’s unable to release to us because we’d squander it. If there is something in your heart that you’ve been petitioning God for and have yet to receive, I want to challenge you to really look at your life to see if you’ve prepared for it.

Lord, Please Give Me…

prayerBefore I had my daughter, I was begging God for her. I was married, we both had good jobs and I couldn’t understand what the hold up was. I was upset with God. I reasoned that there were so many in the world who weren’t married and didn’t even serve Him, but they were blessed with children. Wow, I was so misguided. At 23, I became pregnant and my life turned upside down. Suddenly I needed to find a pediatrician, a daycare that I could trust, a better car and the list goes on. I didn’t even consider how my life would change.

We all blindly ask for things without thinking about what it will cost us to maintain. Have you ever wondered why the prodigal son ended up in the pig pen (Luke 15:11-32)? It’s interesting that he was so anxious to get his inheritance and he didn’t even have a plan! He didn’t start a business, invest it, or anything.  He just went and spent the money on pleasure until it was gone.

This tells us that there’s a danger in receiving a blessing before your ready. I would not change the fact that I had my daughter, but my life could have been a lot easier had I taken the time to plan and prepare for her arrival. This goes for everything. If you want to get married, if you want to buy a house, if you want to go back to school – make sure you PREPARE.

When we receive what we fail to make room for we can end up feeling overwhelmed and that can lead to self-sabotage. You’ll begin to subconsciously work against yourself, for example:

  1. Beware of willful negligence. We often worry ourselves so much about things ahead that we never get started doing what we need to do in the present.
  2. Double-mindedness sets in. James 1:6 says, “But let him ask in faith, with no doubting, for he who doubts is like a wave of the sea tossed by the wind”. Some days you’re motivated and sometimes you’re not. Somedays you’re confident, others – not so much. This is doubt and it’s a faith killer!
  3. Negative internal dialogue and low self-esteem creep up. When your life is led by God you will frequently be challenged on your identity. Before we go after the things we want we should be secure in who God created us to be. Good mental health requires knowing who we are and loving who we are.
  4. Resistance to address things that stunt our growth. We need spiritual strength and maturity to take these things on. Refusing to confront our issues will disqualify us from many of our heart’s desires. How can we hold on to the Lord’s blessings when we’re broken?
  5. Isolation is a trick. A good mentor goes a long way. Do you have big dreams? Then, you need to surround yourself with people who have “been there, done that” and can give you the guidance you need.

Redeem Your Time

prepare for what we pray forThe story of the ten virgins in Matthew 25 is a good example of preparing for answered prayer. They were all in the right place at the right time, they went out together to meet the bridegroom, but only half of them were wise enough to carry extra oil. The foolish virgins knew he was coming, went out to meet him, and when he got there they missed it! They wasted so much time! The bridegroom was delayed, and they still allowed themselves to fall asleep without doing what they needed to do to stay ready.

How many of us are blowing opportunities due to lack of preparation? This is at the heart of self-sabotage. Faith without works is dead (James 2:14).

I believe we are in a time where God wants us all to prepare to receive. If you want to purchase a home – do your research. What is your debt-to-income ratio? How much money do you have saved? What types of loans are available? Does your credit qualify? Whatever it is, God is asking us to stop asking and start preparing.

Move into expectation because expectation changes how you do things. It’s no longer a question in your mind, but it’s now a matter of time. Are you ready?

So, What’s the Play Call?

We all have our “days”, but when lack of preparation becomes a trend, it could be fear and self-sabotage – so pay attention and work diligently in your assignments.

Don’t just write down your goals – break them down into practical steps that you can manage, check off, and see real progress.

Read your Word daily and pray so that you will stand firm in your God-given identity. This will help you to fight and stay committed to your purpose and goals.

God bless!

Relationship Yardwork: 3 Simple Ways to Prepare for the Rain

By
Cortne Smith
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relationship

A Little Rain Must Fall

Recently, I had a few days of downtime, no clients or looming deadlines, and I wanted to be productive around the house. I decided to hit the yard to take advantage of the wonderful warm weather in Atlanta.  While in the yard, I removed the leaves from the gutter, swept off the roof, cleared off the driveway, and raked the leaves in the fenced portion of the yard.

Why did do this?

Well, normally the landscaping company handles these duties. However, days before when the company was scheduled to come, it rained. And, according to the weather forecast, it was scheduled to rain during the next landscaping appointment as well.

I could have decided to stick with the schedule and pray that things work out, or just put in the work myself to ensure it works out.

Just like we all have to do with our relationships…

Who’s Tending to Your Relationship?

faithful over littleAre you making sure things are working out in your relationship, or are you depending on others – on the good days – to come through and maintain it for you?

It’s been said that delegation is a trait of good leadership and shows trust in the team. But what about the marriage team, where leadership and responsibility look very different?

A few words of caution

  • Don’t put off your responsibility to maintain your relationship on anyone else.
  • Don’t allow your busy schedule to leave you no time to spend on your marriage.
  • Don’t let anybody put in more work or time with your spouse than you do.

So, the forecast was right. The rain poured down at the most inconvenient time – just like the rain pours in our relationships. One spouse may lose their job or have a death in the family. Children come with their own challenges that may affect the marriage, too.

On your sunny days, what do you work on so your marriage can “stand the rain”?

Relationship Yardwork Routine

Clean the gutters

Leaves are small and light in context, but with enough accumulation, they can wreak havoc on a gutter. Take time to work out the little things as they come up. Putting off small frustrations, issues, or problems can become big things that block the flow of blessings within your union.

Rake the Leaves

What’s hiding under those leaves on the ground? Allow yourself to forgive and be forgiven so that the weight of offense does not become a burdensome cover for your green grass and positive fruit.  Don’t let unforgiveness stifle your relationship’s bloom!

Clear the driveway

Let the past, be the past. Don’t allow past hurts to creep in and trip up your present or block your future. Keep the path clear for your marriage’s destiny.

So, What’s the Play Call?

Rain is good and necessary to help things grow. Think of your marriage as a garden that God has planted – and you are the ones to cultivate it (Genesis 2:8)!

If you’re experiencing a drought in certain areas of your relationship:

  • Make time to till the land – turn it over to God so He can reveal fresh soil and prepare your marriage for new seeds.
  • Sow what you want to grow. Plant the love, forgiveness, respect that you want to see in your relationship.
  • Wait on the fruit. Be careful not to disturb your new fruit until it’s reached harvest time.

When Jesus Says No, Is His No Enough?

By
Andrea Matthews
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When Jesus Says No

We Are Sons and Daughters of God

My daughter is 2 years old and currently supplies me with all the things expected of her at this age. These last couple of years have been incredibly eye-opening as I’ve taken on the role of a parent. God has shown me parallels between my relationship with her and His relationship with me.

This past week, I recognized something very interesting about my daughter’s behavior. She wanted to play with the nail clippers, but I told her she wasn’t allowed to. My repeated “no” – no matter how firm it got – seemed to mean nothing to her. She was going to grab those clippers unless I physically made it impossible for her.

I found myself getting extremely frustrated. I shouted at her, “Why is my ‘no’ not enough?!”

And there it was: the parallel I mentioned earlier – the one relating the interactions I have with my daughter to the ones I have with my Heavenly Father. I felt His Spirit repeat within me, a little gentler and coated with a lot more patience, “Why is My ‘no’ not enough?”

Say Yes to God’s No

When you call yourself a Christian, someone who is submitted to the will of God, it’s hard to admit when you haven’t been fully obedient in trusting God.

We’ve all battled with this on various occasions. We declare in a catchy Sunday song that we won’t move unless He moves or we’ll stay if He stays, but during the week we’re making all kinds of moves without ever acknowledging Him, or worse yet, ignoring Him. Sometimes we set our desires and plans so fiercely before our eyes that we don’t hear His warning.

That job might be a dead end. That vacation trip might end up being dangerous. That relationship might turn out to be unhealthy and abusive.

“Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him and He will make your paths straight.” Proverbs 3:5-6

You’re a Good, Good Father, Lord

Many times we suffer because we have not respected His authority over our lives and our decisions. Sometimes, our good Father has to physically withhold us from the things we want the most in order to fulfill His role as a loving Protector.

I do the same with my daughter. It’s my responsibility to keep her safe and raise her to know what’s right from wrong. But here’s the thing – we’re not children forever. We have free will and if we continue to grieve the Holy Spirit, we’ll experience the consequences of our actions.

“A man who remains stiff-necked after many rebukes will suddenly be destroyed —without remedy.” – Proverbs 29:1

In the New Testament, a stubborn group of people was given over to the desires they craved so deeply, reaping within themselves the result of a destructive lifestyle.

“Consider carefully what you hear,” He continued. “With the measure you use, it will be measured to you — and even more. Whoever has will be given more; whoever does not have, even what he has will be taken from him.”  Mark 4:24

So, What’s the Play Call?

Let’s count it an honor to hear from Almighty God, choosing to slow down, hear His voice, and do exactly as He says. Even if it’s a ‘no’, we’re trusting His leading and guaranteed to reap everlasting life.

Who, Me? Yes, You: Why Your Purpose is So Personal

By
Alecia M. White
-
purpose

Lately, God has been dealing with me a lot on purpose. Mine, and yours.

“You don’t know me! How can God be dealing with you about my purpose???”

Well, because He’s given me the charge to spread the word that – you were chosen! And, for good reason too.

See, nobody can do what God has called you to do, the way He’s instructed you to do it. No matter how you feel or what you think or say, you’re it!

Nobody Can Do You Like You Do You

chosen purposeWhen I was growing up, Hoover vacuum had a commercial and a song that went a little something like this: “Hoover, Nobody does it like you!” Well, we’re going to apply that same song to your life… that thing that God has sent you out to do, but you’re trying to veer away… “_______________, nobody does it like you!”

You may be opposed to my theory, but I’m right. I’m sure you’ve had your, “but someone is already doing that” moment, but they’re not doing it the way you will. How do I know? Because you’re unique. You have your own fingerprint and way of doing things. And that is precisely why God chose you to carry out His amazing plan.

In our Playbook, Philippians 4:13 tells us that we can do everything that God has given us strength to do. “I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me.” The catch is, we must trust in His given strength. It is so easy to rely on ourselves and feel as if we have failed. And, by “rely on ourselves”, I mean to try and try again without consulting God during the process.

But He doesn’t want that for us at all. God wants us to succeed, He has called us to greatness. The very fact that He gave you that idea that you’ve been sitting on, is proof that He wants more for you than you realize. God trusts you. It is far too late in the game to throw in the towel and quit now.

So, What’s the Play Call?

I know that sometimes, the more you try to “go forth”, the more opposition seems to come along. But, let me encourage you – it will pay off! Cliché, I know, but it’s the truth. And, I couldn’t share with you anything that I didn’t know for myself. So, here are a few things to keep in mind, that will hopefully give you a boost to go on:

  1. God wanted you! As I said before, nobody can do what He has called you to do. “Before I formed thee in the belly I knew thee; and before thou camest forth out of the womb I sanctified thee, and I ordained thee a prophet unto the nations.” Jeremiah 1:5
  2. You are enough! Many times, I’ve had trouble carrying out God’s will for my life because I didn’t feel “worthy” to do so. Well, God is the Creator of me and my worth… and yours too! “I will praise thee; for I am fearfully and wonderfully made: marvelous are thy works; and that my soul knoweth right well.” Psalms 139:14
  3. Fear is of the enemy! God has no part in fear. “For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind.” 2 Timothy 1:7
  4. God’s grace will keep you! His grace is enough to help you through all the hard stuff. “And he said unto me, My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness…” 2 Corinthians 12:9
  5. You have got to do your part! You can pray all you want, but if you are not actively participating in your destiny, it will be useless. “For as the body without the spirit is dead, so faith without works is dead also.” James 2:26

Please don’t give up. We need you to walk in destiny and fulfill your purpose. As I stated before, it will be worth it! Your end result will far exceed your expectations.

One God, One Nation, One Name Be Glorified

By
Ryan Churchill
-
one god one name

Today’s Scripture Lesson: Psalm 86

I want to encourage you to open your Bible or Bible App and read the entire Psalm on your own, allowing the Holy Spirit to minister to you directly through His Word.

In the last Bible Study To GO, we looked at God’s lovingkindness and we also looked at how the Bible deals with fear. If you missed the last one, I’d encourage you to read it after you’ve read this Bible Study to GO, as it will help solidify some of today’s teaching.

presence of GodIn the opening verses, David cries out to the LORD in his need and affliction. He states in verse 2, “Preserve my soul, for I am a godly man; O You my God, save Your servant who trusts in You.” I’ve been looking at this second verse and one phrase keeps jumping out at me, “for I am a godly man.” I’ve viewed this phrase, pondered this phrase, prayed over this phrase, and I’ve come to a conclusion: There are two kinds of people who say this: 1, fools, and 2, godly men and women. Allow me to clear up how they are distinguished.

The fool looks at himself/herself and his/her actions, and weighs these things against the world and when he/she feels comparatively good, he/she says, “I am godly.” The fool’s standard ignores the holiness and righteousness of God.

The godly man/woman, on the other hand, looks not at the world. Instead, he/she looks to his/her Creator and says, “I’m not worthy, but He’s my God, and because I am who He says I am, I am godly.”

God Alone

Verses 8 and 10 help to solidify this truth. They read, “There is no one like You among the gods, O Lord, nor are there any works like Yours . . . For You are great and do wondrous deeds; You alone are God.”

David wrote this Psalm fully focused on his Creator. In understanding this, we can look at David’s primary focus and understand that he was a godly man. David points to the wondrous deeds and works of the Creator. He points out that in all the world we will not find “any works like Yours.” When Christian leaders tell us we cannot work our way into heaven, looking at a verse like this we can understand why. We cannot work our way into heaven because there are no works like God’s works. To put it simply, our works will always come up short in regard to securing a spot in heaven.

Who Is God’s Nation?

I’m shifting gears here so this next statement might be a bit out of left field – so consider yourself warned.

In the American church, it isn’t uncommon to see the Gospel diluted with American patriotism. I make this statement not to present a long thesis paper, but to help you view verse 9 with a little more clarity. In a number of American churches, it wouldn’t be a far stretch for a minister to superimpose the United States of America on verse 9 which states, “All nations whom You have made shall come and worship before You, O Lord, and they shall glorify Your name.” I want to shake you out of that theological leaning by directing you to 1 Peter 2:6-10. It reads,

6 “For this is contained in Scripture:

            “BEHOLD, I LAY IN ZION A CHOICE STONE, A PRECIOUS CORNER stone,
             AND HE WHO BELIEVES IN HIM WILL NOT BE DISAPPOINTED.”

7 This precious value, then, is for you who believe; but for those who disbelieve,

            “THE STONE WHICH THE BUILDERS REJECTED,
             THIS BECAME THE VERY CORNER stone,”

8 and,

            “A STONE OF STUMBLING AND A ROCK OF OFFENSE”;

for they stumble because they are disobedient to the word, and to this doom, they were also appointed.

9 But you are A CHOSEN RACE, A royal PRIESTHOOD, A HOLY NATION, A PEOPLE FOR God’s OWN POSSESSION, so that you may proclaim the excellencies of Him who has called you out of darkness into His marvelous light;

10 for you once were NOT A PEOPLE, but now you are THE PEOPLE OF GOD; you had NOT RECEIVED MERCY, but now you have RECEIVED MERCY.”

What is this nation about which David writes? Peter makes it plain and simple. It’s the body of Christ, that is, it is a nation of believers. And, these believers come from many nations.

As a side note, I stuck with the NASB translation for this quotation. In verse 9, a number of translations read “A CHOSEN PEOPLE” rather than “A CHOSEN RACE.” It needs to be understood that it is easy to superimpose meaning and thus misuse Scripture. The “race” spoken of here has nothing to do with being red, yellow, brown, black, or white. It has everything to do with being adopted into God’s family. So a simple caveat is this: Don’t superimpose your race or your country onto God’s Word; it’s only going to complicate and create division. Therefore, “What God has joined together, let no man separate.” (Mark 10:8) This applies to all covenants, not just the marriage covenant.

Teach Us, O Lord

prayThe last verse I want us to zoom in on before getting to our “play call” is verse 11. This verse sums up why I enter Scripture with peace, eagerness, joy, and hope. This verse states, “Teach me Your way, O LORD; I will walk in Your truth; unite my heart to fear Your name.”

David relied on his heavenly Father to teach him. How cool is that? Do you do that? Did you know you’re not only allowed to do that, but you’re encouraged to do that?

In the Old Testament, God filled select people with His Spirit. Then, Jesus came and taught not only hundreds but thousands. You see in the Gospel that many called Jesus, Rabbi. “Rabbi” means “teacher.” Finally, Jesus tells His disciples (this includes all followers of Christ) in John 14:26, “But the Helper, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in My name, He will teach you all things, and bring to your remembrance all that I said to you.” [See also Luke 12:12]

We so often look for teachers among us rather than turning to the Teacher, the Holy Spirit, who dwells in us. When we open Scripture we are never alone. God is the author of life and He has breathed life into His Word. He uses His Holy Scripture to reveal Himself and His Holy Spirit is active and ready to teach when His Word is present. It is this teaching which allows us to “walk in Your [His] truth.” It is this teaching which “unite[s] my heart to fear Your [His] name.” (I’ll let the last Bible Study to GO speak to and define this fear.)

So, What’s the Play Call?

You only need to read verse 12.

“I will give thanks to You, O Lord my God, with all my heart, and will glorify Your name forever.”

You’ve read it, now GO!

Team Jesus Magazine August Giveaway: BUFFLifeStyle T-Shirt

By
Editorial Staff
-

Fit Temples Fit God’s Plan for Your Life!

Did you know that followers of Christ are more overweight than any other religion? Or, that young adults who attend church once per week have a 50% chance of becoming obese?

Our temples are important to God and the purpose He has for us. That’s why B.U.F.F. Lifestyle works so hard to promote fitness within the body of Christ! Check out our Locker Room chat above and get to know these champions for health and fitness for Team Jesus.

We want YOU to commit to moving your temples (exercise) this month – and we’re going to outfit one (1) teammate with an “Exercise Your Faith” t-shirt for your workouts!

Spread the news, share with friends – we are all Believers United For Fitness!

Contest ends Friday, August  3rd, 2018!

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