I Corinthians 3:1–23

March 14, 2013

I Corinthians 3 contains the verse we used when we were asked to have our gardens as part of the Master Gardener tour in 2009. We didn't want the focus to be on us or our home. We wanted to do something to make sure all honor and glory went to God for His provisions and protection. Our Pastor, in his sermon the week before the event, used a saying we loved and felt appropriate. We put the saying on a chalkboard which we displayed on a chair by the back office door. (I can't recall at the moment what it was. I will look through the video and pictures to find it.)

But then, while reading in I Corinthians 3 for my devotions I came upon this verse—and it was perfect. We wrote the verse on a white board and displayed it on an antique easel surrounded by beautiful Calla Lilly's. It was right by the entrance as everyone walked in. It said:

"The one who plants is not important, and the one who waters is not important. Only God, who makes things grow, is important." I Corinthians 3:7

Perfect. It is all about HIM! Everything in life is about HIM! Everything we do should be for His Honor and Glory. I Corinthians 3:9 - "We are God's workers, working together; you are like God's farm, God's house." It is God's farm and God's house. Not our house, but God's house. God is the foundation—period. We are HIS workers. The wooden stake we drove into the ground beside the large boulder from Mom and Dad's farm (that we drive by every time we enter our property), represents our total surrender to God's authority and will. If all we own, our home, our business, or our lives aren't built upon God—then it is all in vain and worth nothing.

God is the foundation, and we will be rewarded for what we build on that foundation. If we build upon it things for the Kingdom, then it will last and be recognized. If we build upon it with earthly things then that will be revealed and our selfish things will be destroyed. We are God's Temple and the things we build upon His foundation should reflect that. I Corinthians 3:16–17 - "Don't you know that you are God's temple and that God's Spirit lives in you? If anyone destroys God's temple, God will destroy that person, because God' temple is holy and you are that temple."

Don't fool yourself into thinking that you are wise in this world. The world's wisdom is foolishness with God. It is written, "He catches those who are wise in their own clever traps." (Job 5:13 and I Corinthians 3:19) "He knows what wise people think. He knows their thoughts are just a puff of wind." (Psalm 94:11 and I Corinthians 3:20)

It's all about Him! Period. We are His stewards. The sooner we understand that the sooner our lives become successful—for HIM.

Addendum: 9/9/16 ~ I pulled out the DVD the Master Gardener's made of our home to see what the saying was. Unfortunately, there wasn't a picture of the saying on it.

Addendum #2: 8/13/18 ~ Found it!!

THE BEAUTY OF NATURE

THE HANDIWORK OF CREATION

THANK YOU, GOD!

Next Entry: I Corinthians 4:1–21

I Corinthians 2:1–16

March 12, 2013

God's power—verses—human wisdom.  

Man cannot in his own wisdom understand the Truth(s) which come from the Spirit of God. Cannot! In human wisdom it is foolishness. I Corinthians 2:11 - "No one knows the thoughts of God except the Spirit of God." When we accept Christ as our Savior, God sends the Spirit to us; we are taught by the Spirit; and we in turn can teach others. But, "a person who does not have the Spirit does not accept the truth that comes from the Spirit of God." And, "that person thinks they (the truths of God) are foolish and cannot understand them, because they can only be judged to be true by the Spirit." (I Corinthians 2:14)

Understanding these truths has been an "aha" moment for me. It has been both enlightening and very sobering. So, is this why? Is this why we have said over and over these past six years—"Why don't they get it?" Is it because they don't have the Spirit of Truth and therefore can't "get it" and it all seems foolishness to them? Is this why? Is it because of a stubborn refusal to surrender all to God's authority, or is it because they don't have the Spirit of Truth at all?

O LORD, have mercy on them. Have mercy on their souls. LORD, we continue to pray that my sister and brother-in-law would understand that without you they are nothing and that they would desire nothing but you. Thank you, LORD for giving them these years of mercy. Lord, I pray that you will put into their paths whatever it takes for your Spirit of Truth to be revealed to them and accepted by them.

But, for those who have the Spirit of Truth:

"No eye has seen, no ear has heard, no mind has conceived, what God has prepared for those who love him." I Corinthians 2:9 and Isaiah 64:4

Wow! We choose the Spirit of Truth and God's Wisdom.

I Corinthians 2:5 - "This was so that your faith would be in God's power and not in human wisdom."


Next Entry: I Corinthians 3:1–23

I Corinthians 1:1–31 (Continued)

March 11, 2013

Human wisdom and God's wisdom are often polar opposites.

Human wisdom says:

• Get as much as you can
• Believe only what you can see
• Enjoy pleasure
• Avoid pain

But God's wisdom says:

• Give all you can give
• Believe what you can't see (faith)
• Enjoy serving others
• Expect opposition and persecution 

Paul says, "Even the foolishness of God is wiser than human wisdom, and the weakness of God is stronger than human strength... God chose the foolish things of the world to shame the wise, and he chose the weak things of the world to shame the strong. He chose what the world thinks is unimportant and what the world looks down on and thinks is nothing in order to destroy what the world thinks is important." (I Corinthians 1:25–28)

God is in control. You can't out-smart, out-maneuver, or out-play Him. I Corinthians 1:30–31 - "In Christ we are put right with God, and have been made holy, and have been set free from sin.  So, as the Scripture says, 'If someone wants to brag, he should brag only about the Lord.' "


Next Entry: I Corinthians 2:1–16

I Corinthians 1:1–31

March 03, 2013

We are all in Florida! We arrived yesterday. It's hard to believe we are all here as a family celebrating our 40 years of marriage and family after all this family has been through these last six years. God has blessed our family richly. Praise God from whom ALL blessings flow.

 *****

Paul writes the people in Corinth and tells them, "God called me" to do what he was doing, "because that is what God wanted." (I Corinthians 1:1) We absolutely believe that about our own lives. We didn't just "happen" to be in the situation we are in with my sister and brother-in-law for these last ten years now. We believe we are right where God wants us. God most certainly did (and does) not want there to be discord between family or a lawsuit filed. He did not choose that—man did. But we are all called to be people who share with others who God is—no matter what the circumstance—and He has given us everything we need in order to do that. I Corinthians 1:7 - "So you have every gift from God while you wait for our Lord Jesus Christ to come again."

While you wait. It is not instant relief or gratification. The waiting room is often where God does His work. He's like a doctor removing from our lives all that is not pleasing to Him and is harmful to us. There is one thing we can be sure of—God is faithful. I Corinthians 1:8–9 - "Jesus will keep you strong until the end so that there will be no wrong in you on the day our Lord Jesus Christ comes again. God, who has called you to share everything with his Son, Jesus Christ our Lord, is faithful."

Paul urged the people in Corinth to get along, to focus on the big picture of what really is important, and not to argue over petty details. Our sole purpose is to bring glory to HIS name. Paul says that the teachings about the cross is "foolishness" to those who are "being lost" but to those who are "being saved" it is the power of God.

Isaiah 29:14 - "I will cause the wise men to lose their wisdom; I will make the wise men unable to understand." 


Next Entry: I Corinthians 1:1–31 (Continued)

Romans 16:1–27

March 01, 2013

Paul ends his letter by giving thanks to all of those who helped him and to those who have worked to further the kingdom of God. He also gives them one last bit of advice. 

"Brothers and sisters, I ask you to look out for those who cause people to be against each other and who upset other people's faith. They are against the true teaching you learned, so stay away from them. Such people are not serving our Lord Christ but are only doing what pleases themselves. They use fancy talk and fine words to fool the minds of those who do not know about evil. All the believers have heard that you obey, so I am very happy because of you. But I want you to be wise in what is good and innocent and what is evil." Romans 16:17-–(Emphasis mine)

Good advice.

Romans 16:27 - "To the only wise God be glory forever through Jesus Christ.  Amen."  


Next Entry: I Corinthians 1:1–31 

Romans 15:14–33

February 28, 2013

1. You have all the knowledge you need.
2. You are able to teach others.

Paul told the Romans they were equipped to tell others of the Good News. We are equipped as well. No excuses. We must tell others what God has done. It is not about us. It is only about God, what He has done, and the power of the Holy Spirit guiding and directing us. Not only should we be sharing our story, we also need to be supportive of anyone who is furthering God's gospel. Paul was doing God's work, yet he understood that there would be non-believers who would try to harm him and stop God's work. Romans 15:31 - "Pray that I will be saved from non-believers in Judea and that this help I bring to Jerusalem will please God's people there."

LORD, you have called us to tell your story. Save us from those who would try to prevent your story from being told. Thank you, Lord for what you have already done and the ways you have already protected the ministries which you have given us. Lord, we ask that you bless us, and bless us indeed. Enlarge our sphere of influence. Protect us from evil and from those who wish to cause us harm. Protect us also from any selfish or prideful ways in our own hearts. May we harm no one in our actions, thoughts, or deeds. May our lives be a reflection of yours and may our lives bring honor, glory, and praise to your name. Our hearts are full of gratitude and praise to you, our Lord and Savior. Thank you, Jesus.


Next Entry: Romans 16:1–27

Romans 14:1 – 15:13

February 27, 2013

This section of Romans has a lot of important truths:

• Judgment is not ours—it is God's
• He will be the one who decides judgment
• Our strength comes from the Lord
• If we live—we are living for the Lord
• If we die—we are dying for the Lord
• So living or dying—we belong to the Lord
• Our lives are not "ours"
• This earth is temporary
• We will all stand before God to be judged
• Every knee will bow
• Every tongue will confess
• Jesus IS Lord
• Each of us will have to answer to God for the decisions we have made
• Each of us will have to answer to God for how we have lived our lives
• The only important things are: living right with God; peace; and joy in the Holy Spirit
• When people attack or insult you—they are hurting Christ
• All scripture is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting, and training in righteousness so we can be thoroughly equipped for every good work.  (II Timothy 3:16–17)
• Scripture gives us: endurance (patience); encouragement ; and hope
• It is God who gives endurance, encouragement, and unity
• All glory belongs to God
• All praise belongs to God
• We are instructed to praise the Lord
• We are instructed to sing praises to HIM
• Our hope comes from Him

Paul ends this section with a benediction. Jane (Her Name Was Jane) has written in her Bible, "memorize Romans 15:13," a suggestion that would serve us all well.

"I pray that the God who gives hope will fill you with much joy and peace while you trust in him. Then your hope will overflow by the power of the Holy Spirit."

• It is God who gives hope
• While we trust in Him
• Your hope will overflow
• By the power of the Holy Spirit
• And the result is: joy and peace

Our job is to trust. God is the one who gives overflowing hope, peace, and joy through the power of the Holy Spirit. Trust—and obey. There really is no other way.

Ezekiel 18:20 - "Those who do right will enjoy the results of their own goodness; evil people will suffer the results of their own evil."

Addendum: 3/24/16 ~  I am so excited. Our  "Praise Shelter" is really starting to come together. The mason called and is coming tomorrow to begin building the fireplace that represents our altar of thanksgiving. It is a very simple design using old street bricks. We just got the call that the stones we gathered from our property (to represent the stones the Israelites gathered when the Lord led them across the Red Sea and the Jordan) are done and ready to be picked up. Each stone has been sandblasted with the scriptures Jane told us to read so we could memorialize HIS promises. God's promises, which are the same as written in stone, are now literally—written in stone. 

There is one more stone to be completed—a rock we picked up from the Appalachian Trail (from the exact area where Jane also hiked) during our last day hiking. The rock is going to have the white blaze of the trail painted on it with the A.T. symbol carved in the center of it. Then yesterday I decided what we could do to "name" the shelter. So I called the gentleman that cut the wood for the timber peg construction of the shelter and he is making a large plank for us to hang from the front center of the building. We are going to have the words "Praise Shelter" engraved on it so all who enter KNOW why this shelter was built and what it stands for. I'm hoping by mid summer we will have the cobblestone floor laid (which will include the promise stones); the wood stained; and the benches for along the front and sides built.

We are looking forward to the day when "the storm" will be over; God's promises are fulfilled; and HIS story is told. Praise God from whom ALL blessings flow.

Excited! Very excited!!

Addendum #2: 9/9/16 ~ Why does everything always take longer than you think? The fireplace is done; the wood is stained; the plank is engraved but still needs stained; I just finished the cobblestone path leading to the fireplace with the promise stones last week; we've decided not to put benches along the front and side; and instead of making the entire floor cobblestone we are instead laying old antique street bricks and have about 3/4 of the bricks laid. It is almost done. We expect to have the rest of the bricks laid in a few days.

We are so pleased with how it is turning out and can't wait until we can share it and HIS story with others.

Addendum #3: 2018 ~ Here is a picture of the finished Praise Shelter and a link to a YouTube video of the winding path with God's promises. We are so grateful for the many opportunities He has already given us to tell HIS story with others. The video can also be viewed below the picture.

Next Entry: Romans 15:14–33

Romans 13:1–14

February 26, 2013

Obey. Love.

We are to obey those who God has put in leadership over us. Obey does not mean you have to agree with or accept their leading as truth. God's word is the only Truth, but no leader has ever been put into power without God being aware of it. So, if there are taxes to be paid, you pay them.

If we are to submit ourselves to the leading authorities who may or may not believe in Christ's teachings, how much more should we submit ourselves to the one and only TRUTH. And one of those TRUTHS is—LOVE.

Someone who loves does not:

• Commit adultery
• Commit murder
• Steal from others
• Covet (and try to take) what others have

We are to LOVE as we love ourselves. LOVE never hurts others. LOVE is not selfish or self promoting. LOVE is kind. LOVE is generous. LOVE is forgiving. Romans 13:11 says we need to wake up. The time is later than we think. We can't keep doing the same old, same old. Live like you are children of the light.

"Let us live in a right way, like people who belong to the day. We should not have wild parties or get drunk. There should be no sexual sin of any kind, no fighting or jealousy. But clothe yourselves with the Lord Jesus Christ and forget about satisfying you sinful self." Romans 13:13-14

Well said.


Next Entry:  Romans 14:1 – 15:13 

Romans 12:1–21

February 22, 2013

Don't conform—be transformed! Change your hearts by a new way of thinking. THEN (and only then) will you be able to understand and accept God's perfect will for you life and what is pleasing to him.

It is not a position of aggressive maneuvers and being on the offense trying to control everything around you. It is instead a quiet spirit surrendered to the Lord and an acceptance of His teachings. It is understanding the peace and contentment that comes from letting go—and letting God. There is no room for pride in that description. We, as believers, are all part of one body—Christ's. We have a part to play, and we must play it to the best of our God-given ability. God says our love must be real and not just words. Our love should show in our actions and deeds as well.

You can't claim to love, and then by deceitful measures try to take what is not yours. Give more honor to others than you want for yourself. Work hard. Don't be lazy. Be joyful. Have hope. Be patient. Share with others. Pray at all times. Don't try to get even. Relate to others. Rejoice with them when they are happy and feel their pain when they are sad. Live in peace as much as it depends on you. Do not be proud. Reach out to others regardless of social stature. Don't mistakenly think, "It is all about me." Don't try to pay back those who have wronged you. Do what is right. Don't punish others. "Leave room for God's wrath." (NIV - Romans 12:19) Wait for God to punish them with His anger. 

It isn't about you. The battle belongs to the Lord. Don't let evil defeat you. Defeat evil by doing good and it will be like heaping burning coal on their heads.

Sound hard? In your own power—Yes. With a surrendered heart—No.


Next Entry: Romans 13:1–14

Romans 11:1–36 (Continued)

February 21, 2013

Paul talks about those who are stubborn and refuse to submit to the Lordship of Christ. He compares them to branches that are cut off and worthless.

This time of year our lawn is covered with broken branches. Especially because of our "retriever" Dozer. He loves to carry sticks and goes out into the woods and drags branches back to our yard. We need to get out there and clean up the lawn once the weather gets nicer. But as I look out and see the dead branches, I can't help but think of Paul's descriptive words:

"Those branches were broken off because they did not believe, and you continue to be part of the tree only because you believe. Do not be proud, but be afraid." Romans 11:20

The contrast between a beautiful, live, growing tree and dead branches lying on the ground, is striking. A tree isn't alive and vibrant because of its branches, it is totally reliant upon the roots of the tree. Our blessings, success, and witness comes from the root—Jesus Christ. We are part of the tree when we accept that understanding. If we are stubborn and refuse to accept Christ and His teachings, we are worthless to him, and we are cut off. As my Dad would have said, "a no-good-good-for-nothing," just like the branches lying on our ground.

Those who refuse to accept the Good News are enemies to God. Even though they are enemies God still loves them. Romans 11:29–36 - "God never changes his mind about the people he calls and the things he gives them... Yes, God's riches are very great, and his wisdom and knowledge have no end... God made all things and everything continues through him and for him. To him be the glory forever!  Amen."


Next Entry: Romans 12:1–21  

Romans 11:1–36 (Continued)

February 20, 2013

The funeral for our close friend (and my husband's first cousin) was today. It's so hard to believe someone so young and vibrant is gone. We also found out today that our friend with the brain tumor evidently had a stroke during surgery. His wife has decided to let them put in a feeding tube and respirator for a few days to see if he will be able to survive. So much heartache and loss. It is just absolutely mind boggling to me that the pursuit of ill-gotten gained money could possibly be worth six plus years of your life.

Random thoughts:

The Life Lesson Exploration verses for Romans 11 sent me to read Deuteronomy 9:4–5.  I have written beside that passage, "Keep perspective." The battle isn't ours. The victory isn't ours.

Jane (Her Name Was Jane) has written in her Bible the following note for Romans 12:13 - "Your home "a hospital" for strangers, needy, infirm—restoring them in mind, spirit, and body, as need may be!" Pretty cool.

Our lives are absolutely crazy right now. Organizing my husband's parent's medicines has been disastrous. What a mess! It has literally required setting up spreadsheets to organize all their meds. We are doing everything in our power to grant them their desire to remain in their home for a long as possible. When we get back from Florida we are going to start managing their bills and finances as well. We still have much to do with assisting my husband's widowed sister-in-law with her finances, living arrangements, etc. Without God's help all we are doing would be impossible. What we know is this: God has given us these responsibilities and we will do them to the very best of our abilities. 


Next Entry: Romans 11:1–36 (Continued)

Romans 11:1–36 (Continued)

February 19, 2013

Being part of the tree doesn't have anything to do with our own works. It is all about the roots of the tree—God's grace. We are grafted on the tree, and we remain a part of the tree because of our belief in (and surrender to) Jesus as Lord. God's grace is a free gift to man, but it is our choice to either:

1. Obey
2. Refuse to obey

I like how William McDonald puts it in his book Alone in Majesty.

"The fact that God has chosen some to be saved does not mean that He has chosen the rest to be lost. The world is already lost and dead in sins. If left to ourselves, all of us would be condemned eternally. The question is, Does God have the right to stoop down, take a handful of already doomed clay, and fashion a vessel of beauty out of it? Of course He does. C.R. Erdman put it in right perspective when he said, "God's sovereignty is never exercised in condemning men who ought to be lost."... God holds people responsible to accept the Savior by an act of the will. In reproving those Jews who did not believe, Jesus placed the blame on their will. He did not say, "You cannot come to Me because you are not chosen." Rather, He did say, "You are not willing to come to Me that you may have life." (John 5:40)

God's gift of grace is free to those who are willing to surrender their will to His will. 


Next Entry: Romans 11:1–36 (Continued)

Romans 11:1–36

February 18, 2013

A friend of ours had brain surgery yesterday—nine hours. The tumor is most likely cancerous. A very favorite cousin's viewing is tonight and tomorrow. Life is so fragile. My husband and I were talking the other night about how many friends and acquaintances have died since the lawsuit began. The number is staggering to me.

Jane E. Wolfe
My Dad
Our daughter-in-law's mom
My husband's brother
Two of my husband's uncles
Three of my husband's first cousins
Four of our friends from church
Three business associates
Two of our friends from school
Our lawyer's parents
My Dad's cousin (who stayed at our home and gave me information about our shared ancestry).

20+ names—and the list goes on. How can it be? How can it be that anyone could waste even one second of precious time—let alone six years—on seeking revenge or ill-gotten gain? How can it be?

"So you see that God is kind and also very strict. He punishes those who stop following him. But God is kind to you, if you continue following in his kindness. If you do not, you will be cut off from the tree." Romans 11:22

God chose the Jews to be His people. Some believed (and are part of the tree) and some did not believe (and are cut off from the tree). Because some did not believe, salvation was opened up for the Gentiles (you and me) and we are grafted into the tree. The strength and life does not come from the branch, it comes from the root of the tree. 

If God's chosen people (Jews) who did not believe were cut off, then it goes to reason that the same thing can happen to those who have been grafted on should they decide to turn their backs on God's ways. The opposite is true as well. Repent of your ways, acknowledge Jesus as Lord, surrender yourself to His will, and you (like the Jews) are grafted back on. But be careful! When you deliberately turn your back on God and reject his ways, you are not in control of whether you remain on or whether you will be grafted back on. Besides the danger of being cut off, you are also in danger of no longer having the Holy Spirit pull you towards repentance.

"God gave the people a dull mind so they could not understand. He closed their eyes so they could not see and their ears so they could not hear.... Let their own feasts trap them and cause them ruin; let their feasts cause them to stumble and be paid back. Let their eyes be closed so they cannot see and their back be forever weak from troubles." (Romans 11:8–10) Paul was quoting Isaiah 29:10; Deuteronomy 29:4; and Psalm 69:22–23.

Because of their refusal to listen and surrender, they were made stubborn and refused to listen.

Addendum: 3/26/2019 ~ Six more years have passed since I first wrote the list of  people who have died during the time of the lawsuit. "The storm" continues... and so many more names can now be added to that list.

Mom
Cousins
Friends
Acquaintances
Business associates

Today we are going to the viewing for a very special friend who passed away from cancer after battling it for three years. She was only 60 years old. She was such a special person and she will be sorely missed by all who knew her. Her beautiful voice is now singing with the angels and worshiping Jesus with songs of Praise.

The older I get the more I realize that life on this earth is so short! Eternity awaits! If you don't already know Jesus as your personal Savior please consider accepting his free gift of salvation today. The Path to Salvation will show you the way. 

Addendum: 12/17/19 ~ The average life expectancy in the United States is 78.7 years. My sister turns 70 in just a few months. I'm 65. I still don't understand how anyone could waste even one second of precious time—let alone twelve years—on seeking revenge or ill-gotten gain. How can it be? Especially when all they are seeking to obtain is temporal!! Even if they are successful in seeking our ruin and acquire what God has given us through their malicious plans, what has it truly gained them in the light of eternity? Is accomplishing revenge really worth wasting twelve years of your life when time is fleeting? Ill-gotten gains—for what?? To spend on temporary earthly desires or hoard away when in just a few years (at best) it won't even matter what you acquired on this earth? Why? How can anything temporal be worth risking where you spend eternity? I just don't get it. It doesn't make sense. No part of my thought processes can understand it.


Next Entry: Romans 11:1–36 (Continued)    

Romans 10:1–21

February 15, 2013

Paul says (and I say too): There is one thing I want most of all. I want my people to be saved. They know about God but they don't truly KNOW God. They try to be in control and make themselves right in their own ways. But, there is only one way to be right with God, and that is total submission and surrender to God's plan for salvation. 

"If you use your mouth to say, 'Jesus is Lord', and you believe in your heart that God raised Jesus from the dead, you will be saved... any one who trusts in him will never be discouraged... anyone who calls on the Lord will be saved." Romans 10:9–13

Sounds easy. Just say, "Yup, Jesus is Lord. Yeah, I believe." But salvation isn't found by just saying non-committal flippant statements. It is believing, saying, and living your commitment.

Jesus IS Lord. Trust IN Him. I am not in control—HE is. I am God-reliant—not self-sufficient. My life is not about me and what I want—it is about HIM. It is understanding the

God

↓

Man

relationship. It is God's will—not my will. It is total surrender to Jesus as LORD of our lives.


Next Entry: Romans 11:1–36 

Romans 9:1–33

February 13, 2013

Paul's heart was broken for his Jewish brothers. He felt great sorrow and sadness for them. If he could have done anything to restore them to Christ he would have. Paul (and I) finally came to understand one unwavering truth: it was not his (nor my) battle. The battle belongs to the Lord.

God is God. He is the potter. He will decide who kindness is shown to. He will determine who His mercy is given to. Romans 9:21 - "The potter can make anything he wants to make." He will decide if, when, or how He will show His anger. He will receive the honor and glory do Him. People can try to be in control, but it will fail every time. Romans 9:31–32 - "But they did not succeed, because they tried to make themselves right by the things they did instead of trusting in God to make them right. They stumbled over the stone that causes people to stumble."

Jesus is the cornerstone. We either build our lives upon Him as our foundation, or He gets in our way and we trip over Him when we try to be in charge of our own lives. God is patient. He is slow to anger. But His will—will be done, and He will share His glory with no one.

"He wanted to show his anger and let people see his power. But he patiently stayed with those people he was angry with—people who were made ready to be destroyed. He waited with patience so that he could make known his rich glory to the people who receive his mercy. He has prepared those people to have his glory, and we are those people whom God called." Romans 9:22-24

God is slow to anger. He is in control.


Next Entry: Romans 10:1–21

Romans 8:1–39 (Continued)

February 12, 2013

Our future glory, and the hope we have in Christ Jesus:

"Everything God made is waiting with excitement for God to show his children's glory completely." Romans 8:19

E - V - E - R - Y - T - H - I - N - G! Everything was made useless so that ONLY through the blood of Christ "everything God made would be set free from ruin to have the freedom and glory that belong to God's children." (Romans 8:21) God's promises give us HOPE. Romans 8:24–25 - "If we see what we are waiting for, that is not really hope. People do not hope for something they already have. But we are hoping for something we do not have yet, and we are waiting for it patiently." The Spirit himself helps us. He goes to God on our behalf. He "even begs God for us with deep feelings that words cannot explain." (Romans 8:26)

If that doesn't bring tears to your eyes then I don't know what will. What a gift! What an unfathomable gift of love. God knows what is in people's hearts. HE KNOWS!! If your heart is pure—He knows. If the heart is wicked— He knows. The truth will reveal what God already knows. And because of that, we have hope! Romans 8:28–34 - "We know that in everything God works for the good of those who love him... so what should we say about this? If God is with us, no one can defeat us. Who can say God's people are guilty? No one, because Christ Jesus died, but he was also raised from the dead, and now he is on God's right side, begging God for us."

Romans 8:35 - "Can anything separate us from the love Christ has for us? Can troubles or problems or sufferings or hunger or nakedness or danger or violent death?" NO! A thousand times—NO! Nothing can separate us from Christ's love! Not a sister's anger, deceit and relentlessness, not lawsuits, and not lies. NOTHING can separate us from God's love and the hope we have in Christ—NOTHING!

Romans 8:37–39 - "But in all these things we have full victory through God who showed his love for us. Yes, I am sure that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor ruling spirits, nothing now, nothing in the future, no powers, nothing above us, nothing below us, nor anything else in the whole world will ever be able separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord."

What a vivid description:

EVERYTHING—God has provided EVERYTHING we need.

NOTHING—NOTHING can separate us from what God has already provided for us.

There is no room for a misunderstanding in that description. You cannot argue against "everything" or "nothing." ALL we need HAS BEEN provided and no "one" or no "thing" can remove use from His love.

Addendum: 3/30/16 ~ Romans 8:21 jumped out at me while reading this passage today.  "Everything God made would be set free from ruin to have the freedom and glory that belong to God's children."

Set free from ruin!

The lawsuit my sister and brother-in-law filed against us is ruinous. There is no other way to look at it. They were offered so many opportunities to recoup their investment and they turned down every single one without even the slightest hesitation or any discussion. The sale of the entire project; our offers to buy them out for their actual and legitimate investment; our offers to sell to them; all flatly turned down.

If the courts award them a large settlement my sister and brother-in-law would see it as a win-win. They can ruin us by "making us pay," while "winning" money to rebuild their house of cards that crumbled because of their own bad choices. Our lawyer said it best when he said their attitude is, "We win, you lose—you choose." There has never been even the slightest hint of any kind of sincere negotiations. None. Their goal is to ruin us and nothing less then total ruin will satisfy them. (Actually, our total ruin wouldn't satisfy them either. They only THINK it would satisfy. NOTHING outside of God can fill the void in their lives.) They believe they are in control, but they are not. They are laser focused on revenge and our destruction.

BUT GOD!! God is a God of justice. His will—WILL prevail. We believe their ruinous plans will come to naught. We believe in HIS promises—and that is enough. Romans 8:21 - "Everything God made would be set free from ruin to have the freedom and glory that belong to God's children."


Next Entry: Romans 9:1–33

The New Beginning: Go—Serve

February 2013

I have completely lost track of time so I have no idea of the exact date. We have spent this past week at Escuela El Sembrador in Honduras. We came with a team from our church and spent our time here working on building a new dormitory for the boys school. We are now in Tegucigalpa. We've made the long drive back to the capital city and are preparing to fly home tomorrow. I have so much to write about. Escuela El Sembrador was amazing. We will definitely be back.

Late last night (while still in El Sembrador), we were awakened by the sound of beautiful Spanish music. A group of about ten boys from the school were singing a beautiful serenade in the open courtyard of our building. We all came out of our rooms and stood on the verandas and balconies to listen. It was a dark clear night and the beautiful Spanish music resonated in the night air. They sang at least five songs. One of the boys played the harmonica and another played the guitar. It was absolutely beautiful. I took out my phone to record part of it.
  

It was our last night at Escuela El Sembrador. Earlier in the day (during our team's morning devotions) my husband and I shared our story (HIS story) with the group. It was a very meaningful and special start to our last day in in this beautiful place. And then on the last night, just when we thought our time here couldn't have ended any better, we are awakened to the sound of beautiful Spanish music and voices singing praises to the King of kings.

I didn't know any of the songs they sang... until the last song. As they sang, I realized I recognized the melody. But while I recognized the melody, I couldn't remember any of the words. I was humming the melody as we went back to bed. Later, in the middle of the night, the words suddenly came to me.

The words of the song comes from Philippians 1:6.

He who began a good work in you

He who began a good work in you

Will be faithful to complete it

Will be faithful to complete it

He who began a good work

Will be faithful to complete it in you.

Listen to the YouTube video of the boys singing it here.

Another promise from God. He who began a good work in you WILL be faithful to complete it. 

Thank you, Jesus! Thank you for the promise. Thank you for the prodding by our Pastor to take this trip. Thank you for the opportunity and for providing the financial means for us to go. Thank you for the impact it has had in our lives. Thank you for the people we met and worked along side of. Thank you for the safety you gave. Thank you for allowing us to do what we thought was lost. Thank you for allowing us to: Go—Serve.  Thank you, Lord.


Next Entry: Romans 8:1–39 (Continued)

Romans 8:1–39

February 04, 2013

There are two ways to live with two very different results.  

1. Live by following our sinful selves; or 
2. Live by following the Spirit.  

Paul lists the consequence of each.

Follow Self:  

• Think only about what you want
• This kind of thinking brings death
• When you follow self you are against God
• You are unable to obey God's laws
• You cannot please God
• You cannot belong to God
• You die spiritually

Follow Spirit:

• Think about the things the Spirit wants you to do
• This kind of thinking brings life and peace
• God lives in you
• The Spirits gives you life
• Christ makes you right with God
• You have true life
• You choose to let the Spirit lead you
• You are not a slave to fear
• You receive blessings from God
• You may be required to suffer as Christ suffered, but
• You will receive glory as Christ has glory

 (This was written while we were on a mission trip to the El Sembrador Boy's School in Honduras.)


Next Entry: The New Beginning: Go—Serve

Romans 7:1–25

February 5, 2013

(I somehow missed writing about this chapter between 1/31/13 and 2/4/13. When I realized it was missed I went back and wrote this short note about it in the space left at the end of my writings for Romans 6.

Our fight against sin. The law shows us what sin is but the law cannot save us, only the blood of Christ can save us. You can be a "good" person by obeying the law, but the only way to become a "saved" person is to accept Christ's blood offering for your sin. It isn't a "once and done" or a "been there done that." We must fight against sin by daily surrendering our lives to Christ.


Next Entry: Romans 8:1–39

Roman 6:1–23

January 31, 2013

We all have a choice to make, and that choice is found in Romans 6:16.   

"You can follow sin, which brings spiritual death";  

OR

"You can obey God, which makes you right with him."

The choice is ours. There is so much danger in abusing God's grace, in thinking we can live however we want because God's grace covers all our sins. God's graces does cover all our sins, but that does not eliminate our responsibility to put to death our old sinful selves and to live for Christ.  

IF—we choose to continue to follow sin (even after receiving God's grace) THEN—we are purposely defying God's authority and will for our lives, and purposely defying God's authority brings spiritual death. IF—we choose to surrender all and become a servant to righteousness, THEN—that makes us right with HIM, which is the only thing that truly matters in life.

Romans 6:23 - "When people sin, they earn what sin pays—death. But God gives us a free gift—life forever in Christ Jesus our Lord."

The choice is ours. Spiritual Death—or—Abundant Life. I choose to surrender ALL.


Next Entry: Romans 7:1–25

Romans 5:1–21

January 30, 2013

Faith is what makes us right with God, and when you are right with God you have peace with God as well and an inexplicable peace settles over you—no matter what the earthly circumstances of your life. The surrendering of our will and the acceptance of Jesus' death as payment for our sin, opens the door for God's grace and blessing to flood into our lives.

And the result is:

• We have hope when things look hopeless; 
• Joy even in the midst of trouble; 
• Patience is built in the midst of trouble as we wait on the Lord; 
• And that patience builds character that cannot be obtained in any other way.  

 As you change, you find yourself having more hope; and God promises that "this hope will never disappoint us, because God has poured out his love to fill our hearts." (Romans 5:5) It's ALL about Him. IF—we surrender and accept his gift of salvation, THEN—we change, and we develop hope, joy, patience, character, and back to hope. All because of His love being poured into our lives. We can't do it on our own. It is only through the power of the Holy Spirit.

It is only because of the love of God pouring out His love through the Holy Spirit that hope is possible even in the worst of circumstances. Faith produces hope; hope produces joy; joy produces patience; patience develops character; character produces hope; and the circle of faith continues. 


Next Entry: Romans 6:1–23

Romans 4:1–25

January 29, 2013

It's ALL about faith. Romans 4:3 - "Abraham believed God, and God accepted Abraham's faith, and that faith made him right with God." It's not what you do that saves you. It's who you believe in that saves you. God's free gift of love wouldn't be free if we had to earn it.

Abraham was in a impossible situation. There was nothing he could do. BUT, he believed in God's promises and he continued to have hope in the completion of God's promises. He kept the faith. He believed. Time passed and he was still without children, but his faith grew stronger and he gave praise to God. Romans 4:21 - "Abraham felt sure that God was able to do what he had promised." He continued to praise God even during the long wait, and therein lies the key to his ability to keep the faith in God's promises.   

The Old Testament example of Abraham teaches us an important lesson. When you keep your focus on who God IS an amazing thing happens—it becomes impossible to remain focused on yourself and your problems. You are instead focused on the Creator of the universe and mankind; who is All-powerful; ALL-knowing; ALL-present; who has surpassing greatness; and you come to realize you can trust Him—and that becomes enough—more than enough as you put your faith in who He is. When you are focused on the ALL-mighty, the enormity of the problems in your life fade into the background and you TRUST HIM to fulfill HIS PROMISES in your life. THEN—when you have taken your hands are off of the situation—you get to see the hand of God at work in your life and there are no human words adequate to describe the joy and peace that gives you.

You begin to praise Him even more and He blesses you more. It's a continuing circle. Our praises lifted up to HIM and HIS blessings given down to us. Our hands are open in surrender to HIM and our hands are open to receive HIS blessings. There is complete freedom in surrender! What you fear in "giving up" turns into blessings as you receive God Himself. 


Next Entry: Romans 5:1–21

In Rememberance of a Brother

Eulogy I wrote for the funeral of my husband's younger brother.

I've known _____ (my husband's brother) for over 40 years, but it was the last one and one half years of his life that impacted me the most. For it was during the difficult times of illness that I truly came to understand, appreciate, and to love him.

____ was devoted. He loved his family, and his family was the most important earthly thing in his life. Because of his love of his family, he was determined. For three and one half years he faithfully did everything he could to beat his leukemia. At first it appeared that the treatment was working. But in September 2011 it became clear that his body was no longer responding to the treatment. The doctor's in Indy only gave him several months to live. But God's plan for his life was not yet completed  For the next sixteen months, _____ went in for blood transfusions every two weeks and new medications were started. Then early last summer, he developed an extremely rare complication to the leukemia for which there was no medical answer. But still he was determined and hopeful, even though his body was getting weaker. A few weeks before Christmas, as we sat together waiting for the doctor to come into the room, ______ said, "It will be good to go home." Then he said, "I am looking forward to seeing Grandpa B, and as we sat there he told me stories of his Grandpa and how much he loved him. He was beginning to accept the reality of his situation.

Christmas came, and _____ was excited to be able to spend time with his wife's entire family and then later with his own extended family. He knew... he knew this would most likely be the last time everyone would be together on this earth and it was so important to him to see everyone again. _____ wanted to live, but he was not fearful of dying. He knew where he was going. He understood that surrendering to God's will for his life did not mean he was giving up. It meant he trusted God's plan for the "number of his days." His body was failing him, but his spirit was strong. Just three days before he died, he told the Hospice social worker that he had hoped he would have more time— but he was ready to go. The day before he passed, I was singing some old hymns and praise songs to him, and even though he was no longer capable of responding or speaking, he would occasionally move his lips as if to try and sing along. I had just finished singing, "Jesus, Jesus, Jesus... there's just something about that name" when he clearly spoke and said three different times,"I want to see him; I want to see him; I want to see him."

_____ had struggles in this life. He wasn't "first" in many things. But it turns out he was first in the only thing that really matters. He is the first to see Jesus. Psalm 116:15 says, "The death of one that belongs to the Lord is precious in his sight." While we grieve our loss, we celebrate with joy his gain. _____.... your home. You lived well. You loved well. Blessed be the name of the Lord.


Next Entry: Romans 4:1–25

Romans 3:9–31

January 28, 2013

A lot of life (and death) has happened since I've last written. When the right time comes I will write about it. While we are exhausted, we are also grateful for the opportunity to serve and for the healing of hearts that took place. Our faith in who God is has increased, and our sorrow is over-shadowed by the joy in our hearts. My husband's brother has reached his eternal home. Blessed be the name of the LORD.

All people are guilty of sin—ALL! Jane's Scofield KJV Bible lists a summary of the Greek words and their meanings for sin. Sin is:

1. Transgression—an overstepping of the law... the boundary between good and evil
2. Iniquity—an act inherently wrong whether expressly forbidden or not
3. Error—a departure from right
4. Missing the mark—a failure to meet the divine standard
5. Trespass—the intrusion of self-will into the sphere of divine authority
6. Lawlessness—or spiritual anarchy
7. Unbelief—an insult to the divine truth

Sin originated with Satan; entered the world through Adam; incurs the penalty of spiritual and physical death; has no remedy but in the sacrificial death of Christ; and can only be availed by faith. Sin is summarized three ways  An act—the violation of or want of obedience to the revealed will of God; A state—the absence of righteousness; A nature—enmity toward God.

Salvation is a free gift from God.

"Money can't buy it.Man's righteousness can't earn it.  Social prestige can't help you acquire it Morality can't purchase it.  It is, as Isaiah said, "...without money and without price." " ~ From Day to Day with Billy Graham

Romans 3:23–31 - "All have sinned and are not good enough for God's glory, and all need to be made right with God by his grace, which is a free gift. They need to be made free from sin through Jesus Christ. God gave him as a way to forgive sin through the faith in the blood of Jesus' death... God always does what is right and fair... A person is made right with God through faith, not through obeying the law... faith causes us to be what the law truly wants."

"To be" is not a one time act of seeking forgiveness. It is an active and continual state of living for Christ.


Next Entry: In Remembrance of a Brother

Romans 2:1 – 3:8

January 16, 2013

Yesterday I wrote a descriptive list of people's actions when "God left them." Romans 2 says we have no business in judging others. God has given us the ability to discern, but we are not given the authority to judge others. That is the Father's responsibility and He does not need our help. We should instead carefully look at our own lives as it compares with that list and ask the Father—do you see any of those things in me? God wants us to have honest, repenting, and seeking hearts, not condemning hearts. Scripture is very clear:

"But you are stubborn and refuse to change, so you are making your own punishment greater on the day he shows his anger. On that day everyone will see God's right judgments. God will reward or punish every person for what that person has done. Some people, by always continuing to do good, live for God's glory, for honor, and for life that has no end. God will give them life forever. But other people are selfish. They refuse to follow truth, and instead follow evil. God will give them his punishment and anger. He will give trouble and suffering to everyone who does evil... but he will give glory, honor, and peace to everyone who does good... for God judges all people in the same way... hearing (truth) does not make people right with God. It is those who obey (truth) who will be right with him." (emphasis mine)  Romans 2:5–13

God doesn't need our help in assigning judgment. He will judge fairly and justly. While it is true that we will know people by what they do, we should be concerned ONLY with what we do!


Next Entry: Romans 3:9–31

Romans 1:1–32 (Continued)

January 15, 2013

The wrath of God. Something a lot of people don't want to talk about, but that doesn't change the fact that it exists.

"God's anger is shown from heaven against all the evil and wrong things people do. By their own evil lives they hide the truth. God shows his anger because some knowledge of him has been made clear to them. Yes, God has shown himself to them. There are things about him that people cannot see—his eternal power and all the things that make him God. But since the beginning of the world those things have been easy to understand by what God has made. So people have no excuse for the bad things they do. They knew God, but they did not give glory (praise) to God or thank him. Their thinking became useless. Their foolish minds were filled with darkness. They said they were wise, but they became fools." Romans 1:18–22

They substituted the worship of things, and God left them! What an awful, terrifying, and sober thought. God left them! Not on some whim. God is not a God who is looking for some minor infraction so He can zap us and prevent us from entering heaven. Not at all. But there does come a time when because of man's refusal to surrender to Him, and because of man's determination to follow his own evil ways, accountability happens—and "God left them."

Romans 1:24–25 - "Because they did these things, God left them and let them go their sinful way, wanting only to do evil... they traded the truth of God for a lie." Romans 1:26 - "Because people did those things, God left them and let them do the shameful things they wanted to do." People didn't (don't) think it important to have a true knowledge and understanding of God. Romans 1:28 - "So God left them and allowed them to have their own worthless thinking and to do the things they should not do." And as a result, they are filled with:

• Every kind of sin
• Evil
• Selfishness
• Hatred
• Jealousy
• Murder
• Fighting
• Lying
• Thinking the worst about each other
• Gossip
• False accusations
• Rudeness
• Conceitedness
• Arrogance
• They strategize ways to get what they want
• They are disrespectful to their parents
• Foolishness
• They don't keep their promises
• They are ruthless
• They show no mercy

Romans 1:32 - "They know God's law says that those who live like this should die. But they themselves not only continue to do these evil things, they applaud others who do them."

Oh, the wrath of God! I can't imagine living my life in the reality of "God left them." May my life always be a reflection of His love; His beauty; His grace; His mercy; His kindness; His forgiveness.  May others see Christ in me.


Next Entry: Romans 2:1 – 3:8 

Romans 1:1–32

January 14, 2013

A whole week has passed and I haven't written a single thing. What a week! Our time has been consumed helping my husband's brother. The number of his days is coming to a close. We take comfort in knowing he is ready, and in also knowing we have done everything we could to help him. Thank-you again Father for allowing us this opportunity.

Acts 1:5 - "I do this work for him..."
Acts 1:12 - "Your faith will help me, and my faith will help you..."
Acts 1:17 - "It begins and ends with faith..."
Acts 1:17 - "Those who are right with God will live by trusting in him." (Quotation from Habakkuk 2:4)

Those verses sum up this past week. We are utterly exhausted, but everything we have done is work we have done for Him. It has been good to be able to help and encourage my husband's brother, and it has been good for my husband to hear the words, "I'm sorry" from his brother. Surrendering to God the number of your days is FAITH, it is not giving up. And when you are surrendered to God you can live by trusting Him, even under the shadow of death.

What Grace. What Love.

But oh, what anger—the wrath of God—when you refuse to surrender to Him.


Next Entry: Romans 1:1–32 (Continued)

Acts 21 – 28 (Continued)

January 05, 2013

So Paul was sent to Caeser. Caeser was the Emperor of Rome and the Roman Empire, which at that time was almost all of the known world. It would be a long journey by ship. Julius was an officer in the Emperor's army and he guarded Paul during the long journey. Julius was very good to Paul and gave Paul much freedom. Paul was still a prisoner—yet he was free.

The journey was slow and they sailed for weeks. The trip had taken so long that it had become a dangerous voyage and was almost impossible to continue. The owner of the ship and the captain were in a very difficult situation because they couldn't harbor for the winter where they were. So, despite Paul's warning about the dangers ahead, they decided to push on. God sent them a warning, but they refused to listen and they eventually ended up losing their cargo and their ship.

As they disregarded God's warning and continued their trip, it first appeared as if they had made a good decision. The wind was blowing in the right direction and they thought all was well. But they thought wrong. THE STORM hit. The ship got caught in the wind and they could not sail or steer against it, so they had no choice but to let the wind take them wherever it was blowing. The storm was relentless. They tied ropes around the boat to try and hold it together; they threw out some of the cargo; they threw out the ship's equipment; and they didn't see the sun or the stars for many days. It was a horrible storm and they lost all hope of ever being saved.

God warned them about pursuing this path, but they ignored the warning and went their own way. The men on the ship had not eaten for days. Paul stood up and told them, "You should have listened to me... you should not have sailed... then you would not have had all this trouble and loss. But now I tell you to cheer up because none of you will die. Only the ship will be lost." (Acts 27:21–22) Paul goes on to tell them that an angel was sent to him from the God he belonged to and worshiped. (I like how Paul said, "...from the God I belong to." It clearly shows he understood and accepted the

God

↓

Man

relationship and that he was surrendered to the authority of God.) This angel told Paul not to be afraid. The angel said, "Paul, do not be afraid. You must stand before Caeser. And God has promised you that he will save the lives of everyone sailing with you. So men, have courage. I trust in God that everything will happen as his angel told me... but we will crash on an island." (Acts 27:24–26)

The storm raged for weeks. At one point the sailors thought they were nearing land, so they checked the depth of the sea. They went a little farther and checked again. Sure enough, it appeared they were getting closer to land. Some of the sailors wanted to get off the ship. They wanted to be in charge of their own destiny. So they lowered the life boat while they were pretending to put down anchors. Paul saw what they were doing and told the officer, "If these men do not stay in the ship, your lives cannot be saved." (Acts 27:31) So the soldiers cut the ropes and let the lifeboat fall into the water.   

That is where God wants us. He wants all of our own safety nets gone. He wants our total dependence on HIM and not on what we can accomplish ourselves. 

As I'm writing this, the word "lifeboat" jumps out at me. The analogy of a lifeboat was given to my husband and I years ago (2007) during our daily walks together while we prayed about "the storm." We were just about ready to leave the wooded part where we were walking and enter the open area. It was dark out. We were walking and praying as we did each day when suddenly the analogy of a lifeboat hit me. We stopped right at the edge of the clearing. The picture I saw in my mind was my husband and I in the lifeboat with Jesus. My sister and brother-in-law were floundering in the water.  Jesus was extending his arms out to them. All they had to do was reach up and take His hand and He would lift them to safety. But instead of taking His hand and accepting salvation, they kept pushing His hand aside and out of the way. They were so focused and intent on grabbing us and pulling us out of the lifeboat that they only saw Jesus' hands as being in the way even though they were in danger of drowning. Jesus wants us in HIS lifeboat and not our own. He will remove from us whatever it is that is keeping us from surrendering ALL to Him.

Just before dawn Paul persuaded all the people to eat something. It had been fourteen days of waiting, watching, and not eating. Acts 27:34 - "Now I beg you to eat something. You need it to stay alive. None of you will lose even one hair off your heads." When we go through trials, or have been taken into deep waters, we still need to live. When the Israelites were being held captive in Babylon they were told to build houses and settle in the land. They were told to plant gardens and eat the food they grew. They were told to get married and have children. They were told to LIVE even though they were in bondage—BECAUSE—God knew the plans he had for them and it was "... good plans for you, not plans to harm you. I will give you hope and a good future..." (Jeremiah 29:4–14) So Paul took bread, thanked God for it, and began to eat. Soon the others began to eat as well. There were 276 people aboard the ship. When they had eaten all they wanted they began to make the ship lighter by throwing all the grain into the sea.  

When daylight came they saw land. They didn't know what land it was but they hoped to be able to sail the boat to the beach. They cut the ropes to the anchors. They didn't haul the anchors back on board. They left them in the sea. They cut the ropes to free the rudders. They raised the front sail and began sailing toward the beach... and then they crashed. The ship hit a sand bank and was stuck. The front of the ship couldn't move. The back of the ship broke apart in the big waves. If they would have made it safely to land using their own efforts and conventional wisdom, they would have thought they saved themselves. God was not going to allow that to happen. He had promised Paul safety for all those on board but it would be done HIS WAY.

The soldiers wanted to kill the prisoners so none of them could escape. But Julius wanted to let Paul live so he did not allow the soldiers to kill the prisoners. Julius ordered everyone who could swim to jump in and swim to land. The rest were to follow using wooden boards or pieces of the ship to hold them afloat. They committed themselves to the sea—total surrender. Acts 27:44 - "And this is how all the people made it safely to land."

All 276 of them arrived safely on shore. The land was an island called Malta. The people were very good to them. Because it was raining and cold the people built a fire for them. Paul was helping to gather sticks to put on the fire. A poisonous snake came out of the pile because of the heat and bit Paul on the hand. The people saw the poisonous snake hanging from Paul's hand and they thought, this guy must be guilty and he is getting what he deserves.

I am sure there were plenty of onlookers who looked at us the same way. A lawsuit was filed against us, hmm... I wonder what they did wrong, and we were watched to see what would happen to us. Paul shook the snake that came out of the fire off.  (BTW - snakes are like that. When the situation gets hot they strike to try and take advantage.) The people thought Paul would swell up or fall down dead. They waited, and they watched for a long time, but nothing bad happened to him. So, they changed their minds.

They were welcomed into the home of an important man on the island. This man's father was ill and Paul healed him. Paul healed other people on the island as well. They were there for three months, and were well taken care of. I love how God works the circumstances they were in for good even though the disobedience of others is what put them shipwrecked on an island. After the three months they got on another ship and continued the journey to Rome. God used other believers to encourage Paul along the way, and Paul thanked God for them.

They finally arrived in Rome. Paul was allowed to live alone with the soldier who guarded him. Paul sent for the leaders and told them what had happened—he had done nothing wrong but was arrested and turned over to the Romans. He explained how he was questioned, but they could find nothing wrong. The authorities wanted to let him go, but the evil people argued against it, and that was why he was now in Rome.

Paul was falsely and wrongly accused, yet he sought no revenge against those who were seeking his life. Acts 28:19 - "I have no charge to bring against my own people." (We are not seeking any revenge or damages from my sister and brother-in-law even though we have also been falsely and wrongly accused.) Paul was in prison because of his beliefs, not because of his actions. The people were interested in hearing about Paul's beliefs. A date and time was set to meet. They gathered together and Paul shared with them from the prophet's writings. He explained the kingdom of God, and told them about Jesus. Some believed—and some did not.

Not everyone will believe. It was Paul's responsibility to tell God's Truth. It is ours as well. It was not Paul's responsibility if some chose not to believe. It is not our responsibility either. Paul quoted to them what the Holy Spirit spoke to their ancestors through Isaiah the prophet.

"Go to this people and say: You will listen and listen, but you will not understand. You will look and look, but you will not learn, because these people have become stubborn. They don't hear with their ears, and they have closed their eyes. Otherwise, they might really understand what they see with their eyes and hear with their ears. They might really understand in their minds and come back to me to be healed." Isaiah 6:9–10

Acts 28:30–31 - "Paul stayed for two full years in his own rented house and welcomed all who came to visit him. He boldly preached about the kingdom of God and taught about the Lord Jesus Christ, and no one tried to stop him." Not exactly what his accusers expected to happen to him.

What a journey Paul had. What a journey we are on.

It was six years ago today that I met Jane (Her Name Was Jane) for the first time.What an amazing divine appointment orchestrated by God. There will never be enough human words to adequately express our praise to the Lord of lords and our gratitude for ALL HE HAS DONE!  Psalm 8:1 - "O LORD, our Lord, how majestic is YOUR name in ALL the earth..." The best expression of our thanks it not words, it is our actions. We must BE! We must live our lives pleasing and obedient to HIM. Then (and only then), can HE receive all the Honor, Glory and Praise due HIM!

God has provided many insights to us along this journey. One insight he has not provided is how this journey is going to end. We know the end result. God promised us His protection through Jane's lips when she told us to read Psalm 140. That is a done deal. When God says "I will"—He does. What we don't know is the how. Will we go to trial or not?  We don't believe it will go to trial, but it may. Will the lawsuit be dropped? Will my sister and brother-in-law be like the Saul of the Old Testament or become like the Saul/Paul of the New Testament? Will the judge make a ruling? Will it continue in limbo for many more years? How will God make sure that only HE gets the Honor and Glory? I don't know, but it will be interesting to watch and see.

What we do know is this: God is our protector—and that is enough! Paul's years in prison were not wasted years. They were years of earnest seeking, meditation, and quietness. And from that time came the books of Ephesians, Philippians, and Colossians.

Addendum: 3/16/16 ~  God has a purpose and plan. HIS will—will be done and HIS story—will be told. The Jews were out to kill Paul but God's plan was to get HIS story out, and He did. Paul was able to tell others about Christ because of the circumstances surrounding him, not in spite of his circumstances. Paul was right where God wanted him. It is just amazing to look at all the opportunities Paul had to share the Way of Jesus with the crowds and those around him, many of which he would have never had the opportunity to come into contact with in any other way. No matter what your circumstance, you will ALWAYS have the opportunity to share Christ. Wow!

As I was writing these verses Paul quoted from Isaiah 6:9–10, a brand new thought came to my mind.

 "Go to this people and say: You will listen and listen, but you will not understand. You will look and look, but you will not learn, because these people have become stubborn. They don't hear with their ears, and they have closed their eyes. Otherwise, they might really understand what they see with their eyes and hear with their ears. They might really understand in their minds and come back to me to be healed." Isaiah 6:9–10;  

In the past, when I have read these verses (and others like them), I have always thought it meant that because of their refusal to surrender they were blinded and could not hear or see truth. But this time as I was reading them I realized there is another explanation as well. They don't hear, and they don't understand, because they don't want to hear and they don't want to understand. IF—they heard, and IF—they understand, THEN—they would have to make a choice. They would either have to:

• Change their hearts and lives and get a new way of thinking, OR
• They would have to openly defy what God is saying and admit they are shaking their fists in the face of God.

As long as they refuse to hear and refuse to understand, then they can live with their heads buried in the sand and pretend that all is well and pretend they are not really rebelling against God. They can then continue their selfish and stubborn ways and think all is well. Not only are they blinded, they are also deceived.

The only ones they are fooling is themselves. They most certainly are not fooling God. Refusing to see or hear does not change TRUTH. Oh, what a dangerous path to pursue.


Next Entry:  Romans 1:1–32 

Acts 21 – 28 (Continued)

January 04, 2013

As Paul was saying all these things, Festus spoke up and accused Paul of being crazy. Everything Paul was talking about and explaining to them was totally foreign to Festus. Paul replied, I am not crazy. Everything you have heard me say is true and sensible. King Agrippa, what about you? You've heard about these things. I can speak freely to you. Do you believe in what the prophets wrote? I know you believe. The king replied, "Do you think you can persuade me to become a Christian in such a short time?" And Paul said, "Whether it is a short time or a long time, I pray to God that not only you but every person listening to me today would be saved and be like me except for the chains." (Acts 26:29)

Then everyone who was gathered in the room—all the important people—stood up and left the room. Talking to each other they said, "There is no reason why this man should die or be put in jail." (Acts 26:31) They could have left him go free, but Paul had asked to be heard by Caeser. God's plan was not yet done. Remember what God said to Paul when he came and stood beside him? Acts 23:11 - "Be brave! You have told people in Jerusalem about me. You must do the same in Rome." It was not yet time for it to be over—Paul must go to Rome. Look at all the people who were hearing God's message because of the situation Paul was in. From outside appearances, it looked like Paul was being punished by man. But contrary to what it looked like, Paul was in the center of God's Will and he was being used by God to further His Kingdom purposes.  

On 11/27/10, I was reading in Ezra 6. The Life Lesson Exploration verses included Acts 26:17–18. "I will keep you safe from your own people and also from the others. I am sending you to them to open their eyes so that they may turn away from darkness to the light, away from the power of Satan and to God. Then their sins can be forgiven, and they can have a place with those people who have been made holy by believing in me." I read those words at the exact time we were preparing to send to my sister and brother-in-law over 450 handwritten pages of this journal.   

The reason we had to prepare and send my journal was because the judge reopened discovery for a short time and "journals" were included in the long list of discoverable items. I'd never kept a journal before and was wishing I wouldn't have started one when I realized it was part of what was discoverable. I began keeping a journal in 2009 after feeling strongly led ("pressed in the Spirit") to chronicle my thoughts and prayers while reading through the Bible. The thought of sending our enemy my very personal writings, prayers, and thoughts was nauseating. (I paused when I wrote the word "enemy" because it seems like a such a strong word. But what other word do you use to describe someone who is actively trying to destroy you? We do not have enemy thoughts towards them, but there sure is enemy actions from them.) 

Oh, how I did not want to send my journals to my sister. I knew she would parse every word and every thought would be analyzed to see it they could find something to use against us. But, even though it was very upsetting, I was not going to go down a path of lies, whether by words or by omission. So, I told our lawyers about my journals and I went against my fear, pride, reluctance—whatever it was—and sent over 450 handwritten pages to them. At that time my journals covered Genesis to II Chronicles 11:17.

My journals were full of my personal thoughts; our prayers for my sister and brother-in-law; the story of Jane (Her Name Was Jane); and what God had taught us during this time. But most important of all, it was full of God's Word. At the exact same time as when my journals were being prepared, I am reading (and writing) about Ezra 6, and the Exploration Verses send me to Acts 26:17–18.

"I will keep you safe from your own people and also from the others. I am sending you to them to open their eyes so that they may turn away from darkness to the light, away from the power of Satan and to God. Then their sins can be forgiven, and they can have a place with those people who have been made holy by believing in me."

Wow! Wow! A thousand times—WOW! God gave us a voice and a captive audience even though the world would say we are the captive ones. His Words went out. Their response to His words is not determined or controlled by us. (See tomorrow's journal entry.) Their initial response was like that of Festus towards Paul. They basically accused me of being crazy and homicidal. They said they were fearful of me and would seek a restraining order against me if they lived closer to us. Their lawyer followed suit and said he was fearful of me as well and if we ever needed to meet it would have to be in a secure location where I would have to be searched and go through a metal detector.

What I KNOW is this: God sent me (my journals) and we are protected from our own people and others!


Next Entry: Acts 21 – 28 (Continued)

Acts 21 – 28 (Continued)

January 03, 2013

Festus becomes governor. Even after two years the Jews have not moved on with their lives and they see this as a new opportunity to "get" Paul. Festus went from Caesarea to visit Jerusalem. This time the Jews presented their false charges against Paul to Festus and they asked him for a favor. They wanted Festus to send Paul back to Jerusalem. Their plan? To kill him while he was being moved. But their plan didn't work. Festus decided to leave Paul in Caesarea. He said, "Some of your leaders should go with me. They can accuse the man there in Caesarea, if he has really done something wrong." (Acts 25:5)

Festus returned to Caesarea. He told the soldiers to bring Paul before him. Festus was seated on the Judge's seat. When Paul was brought into the room the people who were against him gathered around him, "making serious charges against him, which they could not prove." (Acts 25:7) This is what Paul said to defend himself: "I have done nothing wrong against the law, against the temple, or against Caeser." Festus wanted to please the Jews, so he asked Paul if he wanted to go to Jerusalem to be judged there. Festus thought he was trying to please the Jews, but what he didn't realize is that it wasn't the "place" that mattered to the Jews. Having Paul moved was part of their scheme to kill Paul by having access to him.

Paul replied, you can judge me right here. Acts 25:10–11 - "I have done nothing wrong to them; you know this is true. If I have done something wrong and the law says I must die"—then so be it. "But if these charges are not true, then no one can give me to them." I'm not going to run; I'm not going to hide; I'm not guilty; and "I want Caeser to hear my case!" Caeser was the Emperor, the highest authority in Rome. Festus talked it over with his advisers and then agreed to send him to Caeser.

A few days later King Agrippa and his wife come to visit Festus. Festus tells him the story of what has happened.

1. Felix left a man in prison;
2. I went to Jerusalem and the leading priests and older leaders made charges against him;
3. They asked me to sentence him to death;
4. I explained that when a man is accused of a crime, we Romans do not hand him over until he has been allowed to face his accusers and defend himself against their charges;
5. So the people came here for the trial;
6. I commanded that the man be brought in;
7. They stood up and accused him, but not of any serious crime as I thought they would.

Festus continues. The things they are complaining about is a difference in belief systems. He said/she said. How do I make a judgment about that? I asked Paul, "Do you want to go to Jerusalem to be judged?" But he asked to be kept here. He wants a decision from the Emperor, so I'm going to send him to Caeser.

King Agrippa was intrigued. He wanted to hear from this man himself, so a time was set. The king and his wife, army leaders, Festus, and the important men from Caesarea all gathered in the judgment room. The soldiers brought Paul in. Festus said to all the important people gathered—Here he is... this is the man. His accusers have complained to me about him. They have shouted that he shouldn't live any longer.   found no reason to order his death. He has asked to be judged by Caeser, so I am sending him to Caeser. But I don't even know what to write about him when I send him. Maybe you can help question him and give me something to write. It seems foolish to send a prisoner to Caeser without telling what charges should be against him.

Agrippa said to Paul, "You may now defend yourself." Now, from all outside appearances, Paul is the captive one. But the truth is Paul had a captive audience, and he took that opportunity to witness for God. Paul raised his hand and began to speak  Acts 26:2 - "I am very happy to stand before you and will answer all the charges the evil people make against me.... please listen to me patiently."

And Paul starts in, and they hear his whole life story, who he was and who he became through the grace of God and His son Jesus. He told how he used to be like his accusers and used to help them persecute those who believed in Jesus. (Which is why they were so angry with Paul now. They used to be partners, but Paul broke away from them and they were angry. They wanted to make Paul pay, at any cost.) Paul told about what happened to him on the road to Damascus. How he was blinded by a bright light and how he heard a voice speak to him. "Saul, why are you persecuting me? You are only hurting yourself by fighting me."

Then Paul told them how God spoke to him and said, "You will tell people the things you have seen and the things that I will show you. This is why I have come to you today. I will keep you safe from your own people and also from the others. I am sending you to them to open their eyes so that they may turn away from darkness to the light, away from the power of Satan to God. Then their sins can be forgiven, and they can have a place with those people who have been made holy by believing in me." (Acts 26:16–18) Paul told King Agrippa how he obeyed God's voice and preached God's message of repentance and "change your hearts and lives."

Acts 26:21 - "This is why....!" This is why the Jews were angry and determined to get Paul and manufactured accusations against him. Acts 26:22 - "But God helped me, so I stand here today, telling all people, small and great, what I have seen."


Next Entry: Acts 21 – 28 (Continued)