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Saved

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Saved

“Everyone who calls on the name of the LORD will be saved” (Romans 10:13).

I was seven years old. It was a Sunday morning, and I stood at the back pew of Calvary Baptist Church in Butler, Missouri. As the preacher invited people to accept Jesus, I sensed a tugging at my heart. I knew God was speaking to me. Even though I wanted to go forward, I didn’t. Instead of walking to the front of the church, I went downstairs to the basement. My mother followed me.

“What’s wrong?” she asked. I told her my stomach hurt because it did. I was nervous and scared. I can’t recall exactly what my mom said, but her words calmed me down. After a few minutes, she and I went back into the service, and I walked up the aisle to the pastor.

Brother Green and I knelt by the altar, and he shared Bible verses with me, including Romans 10:9-10, “That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved. For with the heart man believeth unto righteousness; and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation (KJV).” The truth of the gospel penetrated my soul. I needed Jesus. I confessed my sin to God and asked Jesus to come into my life. On June 3, 1979, God gloriously saved me!

Decades later, I’m still overwhelmed by God’s great love. That he would send his Son to die for me is unimaginable! That he would choose me before the creation of the world to be his child is incomprehensible! As long as I live, I’ll never be able to grasp the full extent of his affection for me.

Have you met the Lord and been saved by grace? If so, then praise him! Thank God for what he has done, and share your story with others. If you’ve not yet accepted God’s gift of salvation, I urge you to open your heart to him. He loves you more than you can understand. You don’t have to do anything but ask. The Lord is waiting for you to come to him. Just believe and receive. . . and be saved.

Note:
According to the Bible, if you want to become a follower of Christ, you need to:

A – Admit that you are a sinner in need of God’s grace.
B – Believe that Jesus came to this earth as the Son of God, lived a perfect life, died for your sins, and rose again to give you eternal life.
C – Confess your sins to God and receive his forgiveness.

Following is a sample prayer for salvation. Of course, you should use your own words to talk to God, but this prayer might help guide you:

“God, I acknowledge that I’m a sinner in need of your forgiveness. I’m sorry for the life I’ve lived. I repent of my sin (turn away from it) and choose to follow you.

Your Word says in Romans 10:9, “If you confess with your mouth, ‘Jesus is Lord,’ and believe in your heart that God raised Him from the dead, you will be saved (Romans 10:9).”

I believe you sent your Son, Jesus, to die in my place. I believe Jesus paid the penalty for my sin and that he rose from the dead on the third day.

Today, God, I accept your gift of salvation. I declare that Jesus is now my Savior and Lord of my life. Thank you for saving me. Thank you for making a way for me to have a personal relationship with you. I want all that I do to bring glory to you. In Jesus’ name, AMEN.”

Get Out of the Boat

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boat on shore
Peter was exhausted. He and the other disciples had spent all day with Jesus. They had ministered for hours to the crowds of people who followed them. When it began to get late, Jesus sent the disciples off in a boat so they could get some rest. Jesus stayed behind to pray.

That night the wind picked up and began tossing the boat back and forth on the water. The waves made it hard for the disciples to row. Jesus saw their struggle and went out to them by walking on the water. When the disciples saw him, they were terrified. He looked like a ghost. But, Jesus told them, “Take courage! It is I. Do not be afraid” (Matt. 14:27).

Peter, the bold leader that he was, said, “Lord, if it’s you, tell me to come to you on the water (14:28).” Jesus said, “Come,” and Peter got down out of the boat. He took a huge step of faith by putting his feet in the water and started walking toward the Lord.

What Peter did makes absolutely no sense. People don’t walk on water! That just doesn’t happen. But, as we’re reminded in Luke 18:27:

“What is impossible with men is possible with God.”

Sometimes we don’t understand what God is doing or asks us to do. We just don’t see how it can happen. It doesn’t make sense, and we can’t figure it out. But, you know what? We don’t have to understand. All we need to do is to trust in the Lord, focus on his promises, and find peace in his Presence.

In order for Peter to walk on the water, he had to get out of the boat. He had to cast all doubt and fear aside and keep his eyes on Jesus. As long as he did, Peter lived in the supernatural. He experienced God’s power working in his life. Instead of being paralyzed by fear like the rest of the disciples, Peter walked in faith.

Jesus calls out to each of us, “Come.” What he is calling you to do may be different than what he’s placing on my heart. But, the invitation is still the same—to trust in him—no matter what our circumstances are, no matter what everyone else is doing, no matter what obstacles are in front of you, and no matter how much you’re afraid.

I want to be like Peter. I choose today to put my feet into the water and take steps toward what God wants me to do. What about you? Will you get out of the boat?

Love Your Enemies

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Love

When Jesus said in Matthew 5:44, “Love your enemies,” who exactly did he mean? In elementary school, the enemy is the big, mean bully who picks on other kids. In adulthood, the enemy looks quite different.

What if the enemy is a former friend who betrayed you? Or a co-worker who seems determined to make you look bad? Or, worse yet, what if it’s someone in your family–a child, a sibling, or your spouse?

God’s command is the same: Love. No matter who the hostile person is, show them love. 

Extending love in the face of persecution isn’t easy, and it’s definitely not natural. In fact, it’s impossible without God’s help. Only through the power of the Holy Spirit can you show kindness to people who are hateful toward you.

When someone spews toxic words in your face or does horrible things to you, remember one thing: That person is not the enemy. The evil behavior they’re demonstrating comes from somewhere else. Actually, from someone else–from Satan, the father of lies. He is your real enemy. Satan is completely opposed to you and to all Christ followers. His goal is to destroy your joy, hope, peace, and faith. . . and, eventually, your life.
 
But the good news is: God is on your side! The Lord is your Defender, and he fights for you! So you don’t have to take revenge when people hurt you. You don’t need to come up with some plan to make them pay for what they did. Instead, take your pain to the Lord in prayer, and let him comfort you. Trade your seething anger for his perfect peace. 

God is patient with us. He knows sometimes it takes a few days for us to get to the point of surrender. But when we do, it’s a sweet time of letting go. You and I weren’t designed to carry the burdens of bitterness and resentment. Such emotions only cause more wounds and end up stunting spiritual growth.

Ask the Lord to reveal any unforgiveness in your heart. If he shows you something, confess it. Then, pray for anyone in your life you would classify as an enemy. Pray that person will know the love of God in a personal way.

Positioned for His Purpose

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Doors

Have you ever wanted to live somewhere else? In another state or even a different country? I have, especially this time of year. It’s winter in Missouri, and I’m not a fan of freezing temperatures.

The adventurous part of me would love to relocate. In fact, several years ago, my husband and I seriously thought about living closer to his parents, who live in New York. Justin flew out to Pennsylvania for a job interview. We dreamed about a new life together on the East Coast and began making plans to move.

But then we sensed the Lord putting the brakes on the whole idea. As much as we wanted to be near Justin’s family, we didn’t believe it was right for us to leave. We sensed God’s voice saying, “Stay.” So we did, and we’ve lived in Missouri for more than 20 years.

Looking back, I can see why the Lord kept us in Springfield. God has poured out countless blessings on our family in this place. We’ve also grown exponentially through trials, tragedies, and triumphs. Yes, God had specific plans for us here, some of which he is still working out. We won’t be going anywhere until he gives us the go-ahead.

Where you live is not an accident. Your address is not random at all. God’s Word is clear on this issue:

“From one man he made every nation of men, that they should inhabit the whole earth; and he determined the times set for them and the exact places where they should live” (Acts 17:26).

The Lord has strategically positioned you in a particular city and community. You are where you are for a reason. God has purposes in mind for you and people he wants you to reach.

Ask God to increase your passion for the people in your community. Start by being sensitive to the Holy Spirit’s leading when people who cross your path. If you’re at the grocery store, talk to the checkout person instead of texting. Thank a waitress for working so hard. Encourage a young mom who looks exhausted. Sometimes the smallest expressions of kindness open people’s hearts to the Lord.

Finally, thank God for where you live. Even if it’s not your first choice, trust the God who loves you. He has a plan for you there.

Listen to God

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Listen to God.

“Anyone who belongs to God listens gladly to the words of God” (John 8:47 NLT).

It was an early Saturday morning, and no one else in the house was awake. I quietly slipped out of bed, put on my workout clothes, and headed to the gym. After more than two weeks at home with my children on Christmas vacation, this momma was desperate for some time alone.

When I entered the facility, I was immediately assaulted by deafening, rap-style music. The song blared through the speakers at full volume. At first I thought, There’s no way I can exercise like this! But, I was determined. I wasn’t going to leave. In the thirty seconds it took me to walk to the treadmill, I heard at least five obscenities. I couldn’t get my headphones on quickly enough.

Even after I turned on my Christian music, I could still hear the other song. It was distracting and disturbing. The lyrics made me uncomfortable. I did my best to concentrate on the positive words in my ears and tune out the profane.

It wasn’t long before I barely noticed the rap music and was able to settle into my workout. After fifteen minutes, the perpetrator turned off the radio and left the building. I was finally able to relax and exercise in peace.

We live in a world that’s riddled with sin. Evil is all around us, and we’re constantly bombarded with negative influences. Sometimes the world can be loud – shockingly loud – and it’s difficult to hear the Lord’s voice. We must choose to focus on truth and tune out anything opposed to it.

Daily Bible reading is essential to walking in victory. You should hunger for God’s instruction just as you hunger for food. You need to take pleasure in his commands more than you savor a fine meal. If you struggle with consistency in this area, ask God to increase your desire for his Word. May you find renewed delight in listening to him!

Pray for Your Leaders

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American flag
I’m embarrassed to admit I don’t pray regularly for the leaders of my country. I know I should, but I forget to do so, that is, unless some kind of tragedy occurs or our nation is facing a presidential election. 

When the apostle Paul wrote to Timothy, he encouraged him to intercede specifically for “kings and those in authority” (1 Tim. 1:1-2a). In fact, the Bible says he urged young Timothy to pray in this way. If it was important for them, it’s important for us as well.

Notice Paul didn’t say, “Pray for your leaders if you like them and agree with their policies.” Sometimes we find ourselves failing to intercede because of this reason. We don’t approve of the leader’s lifestyle, past, decisions, and/or political agenda. Instead of interceding, we grumble and complain.

God is calling us to a higher standard. He wants us to focus on advancing his kingdom by fighting on our knees.

“I urge you, first of all, to pray for all people. Ask God to help them; intercede on their behalf, and give thanks for them. Pray this way for kings and all who are in authority so that we can live peaceful and quiet lives marked by godliness and dignity” (1 Tim. 2:1-2 NLT).

The next two verses explain why this intercession is crucial:

“This is good and pleases God our Savior, who wants everyone to be saved and to understand the truth” (1 Tim. 2:3-4 NLT).

When we pray faithfully for our leaders, we do a good, God-honoring thing. It pleases the Lord because His desire is for all people to experience his salvation and to understand his Word.

If you want revival in your land, pray for your leaders. Thank the Lord for the men and women he has placed in authority over you. Ask God to give them wisdom, strength, and a heart to know him. The Lord will certainly hear your prayer and bless your obedience.

 

Obedience Leads to Peace

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Open Bible with Mug
The simplest instructions can sometimes be the most difficult to follow. Let me give you an example (hypothetical, of course). When a parent tells her teenage daughter, “Clean your room,” you’d think the teen would know to pick up her various piles of clothes on the floor, not bunch them up in one gigantic, overflowing heap! But somehow what’s obvious to the parent seems to befuddle the child.

Fortunately, when it comes to obeying the Lord, we don’t have to guess how we’re supposed to live. The Bible gives us simple, clear-cut instructions, such as, “Don’t worry about anything; instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need, and thank him for all he has done” (Phil. 4:6-7).

Sounds easy enough, right? I wish it was. Let’s take a closer look at the truths in these two verses:

  • “Don’t worry about anything.” You may be wondering, Is that even possible? It must be, or God wouldn’t have included this command in the Bible.
  • “Pray about everything.” Talk to God about the details of your life. No matter how big or small, He cares about it all!
  • “Tell God what you need.” If you haven’t already, make a list of prayer requests for yourself and others in a journal. Then continue to bring those requests before the Lord on a regular basis.
  • “Thank him for all he has done.” Tell the Lord how thankful you are for specific blessings in your life. Make it a goal to write down five or 10 things every day.

When we develop the habit of trusting God with every situation, we’ll have tranquility instead of tension. Also, as we cultivate an attitude of gratitude, our hearts will be full of joy. But wait. There’s more! Check out Phil. 4:7:

“Then you will experience God’s peace, which exceeds anything we can understand. His peace will guard your hearts and minds as you live in Christ Jesus.”

Did you catch that? The peace of God will act as a garrison around us so the enemy can’t break though!

In your prayer time today, thank the Lord for the gift of his perfect peace that protects you, strengthens you, and leads you to victory.

Pray. Wait. Trust.

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Pray. Wait. Trust.
“I love to wait!” said no one ever.

Just ask the 15-year-old counting down the months until he or she can be a licensed driver. Or the businessman who has been passed over time and time again for a job promotion. Or the pregnant mother eagerly anticipating the baby she has carried for nine months.

Waiting is not a popular past-time, but it’s a big part of our lives. We spend countless hours waiting in traffic jams, in grocery check-out lines, and at the doctor’s office. We wait, and we wait. And we wait.

Every January for the past seven years, I’ve led an online Daniel Fast. Each fast has been an incredible time in God’s presence as thousands of believers have joined together in prayer. Since it takes months to prepare materials for the January event, I usually start preparing for it in September. In the past, God has given me a theme, along with a related verse or passage. Then I’ve built the fast around that theme. However, this year has been different.

By late October, I still didn’t have any clear direction on what to do. Although I’d been praying for months about the fast, I wasn’t hearing anything specific from God. But what I did hear was this:

Pray.

Wait.

Trust.

So that’s what I’m doing. I’m continuing to pray about January. I’m waiting on the Lord to make my path clear. I’m choosing to trust in Him to answer at just the right time.

But I know I’m not the only one waiting on God right now. What about you? What are you waiting for?

Whatever it is, take it to the Lord in prayer (yes, just like the old hymn). Talk to God about your need. Maybe it’s something you’ve been praying about for weeks, months, or even years. I know it can be difficult to keep bringing the same request to God, but you can’t give up now! God is at work, and He wants you to trust Him.

One thing I recommend is to rehearse His promises to you. Truth will keep you on track when you get weary in the waiting. Here are a few of my favorite verses:

  • “Don’t worry about anything, but pray about everything. With thankful hearts offer up your prayers and requests to God. Then, because you belong to Christ Jesus, God will bless you with peace that no one can completely understand. And this peace will control the way you think and feel” (Phil. 4:6-7 CEV).
  • “Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you” (1 Peter 5:7).
  • “Wait for the LORD; be strong and take heart and wait for the LORD” (Ps. 27:14).
  • “Those who wait upon the LORD will renew their strength; they will mount up with wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary; they will walk and not faint” (Is. 40:31 BSB).
  • “Those who know your name trust in you, for you, O LORD, do not abandon those who search for you” (Ps. 9:10 NLT).
  • “Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight” (Prov. 3:5-6).

Waiting may not be fun, but it’s always a faith-building exercise that makes us stronger in the Lord. Over the past few weeks, I’ve discovered a growing sense of excitement as I patiently (and sometimes not so patiently) wait on God’s plan for January to be revealed. Whatever He has in store for me, it will be worth the wait! The same is true for you. God’s purposes for you are good (Jer. 29:11), and you can trust Him to work everything out. Just remember:

Pray.

Wait.

Trust.

God will take care of the rest.

Back to School, Back to Prayer

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Summer vacation 2018 in Miramar Beach, FL

School is back in session for my kids, which means our three-month break is over. Gone are the lazy days of summer, when life is all about sleeping in late and vacationing long. Now, it’s time to resume my work schedule.

For the past week or so, I’ve been thinking about where God wants me to devote my time. Of course, there are the obvious responsibilities – cooking, cleaning, doing laundry, and keeping our house somewhat organized. I also volunteer each week with a ministry at my church called Sisterhood Cares, lead a prayer group at our school, and write blog posts occasionally. But I’ve been wondering, Where does my focus need to be?

Just last night I shared these thoughts with my husband, Justin. He’s always a good sounding board when I need to process my emotions. Justin said, “Maybe you need to focus on the girls right now.” He was referring to our daughters, Isabelle who is in ninth grade, and Jocelyn, who’s in seventh. “Yes,” I replied, “but they’re gone most of the day.” Even as the words came out of my mouth, I sensed the Lord speaking to my heart, “You can pray.”

Ah, yes. Prayer. How easy it is to forget the importance of this much-needed spiritual discipline and let other things get in the way!

The Lord commands us to “pray without ceasing” (1 Thess. 5:17), which is a tall order. Frankly, the verse can be intimidating and make us feel like we’re immediately set up for failure. You may be wondering as I have in the past, How can I possibly obey that commandment? Well, rest assured, God doesn’t expect us to be on our knees 24/7. He understands that we’re all pulled in 20 different directions on most days. But, the Lord does want us to make prayer a priority in our lives.

The Greek definition for without ceasing is “adiáleipta” which means “with continuous action.” That means we keep praying, keep believing, and keep trusting in God even when life gets hard. We continue to pursue God through prayer, knowing that He hears us and is responding to our cries.

One of my goals this fall is to intercede for my two teenage daughters by praying God’s Word over their lives. Specifically, I plan to use a helpful tool called, “Promises to Claim for Your Children” to guide my prayer time.  If you have children, I encourage you to use these verses as you pray for them.

Here’s an example of how that might work: 

  • Verse: “You love righteousness and hate wickedness; therefore God, has set you above your companions by anointing you with the oil of joy” (Ps. 45:7).
  • Prayer: “Lord God, I thank you that (child’s name) loves righteousness. Give him/her an increasing desire to know you and Your Word. May he/she hate wickedness and avoid any evil path. Show favor to (child’s name) and fill his/her heart with joy.”

As you pray God’s Word over your children, your faith will be strengthened, and their lives will be impacted in a powerful way. You can also use the verses to pray over a spouse, family member, friend, or even yourself. God’s promises are for everyone! Tell God your desire to grow in prayer, ask Him to help, and watch the Lord do what He does best – astound you with His love, faithfulness, and power! 

We Need Each Other

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Friends
When I was in my late 20s, I asked the Lord for godly friends. I wanted to be surrounded by women of faith – women who are consistently pursuing Christ and striving to live according to God’s Word. My prayer was fueled by the desire to grow in wisdom – to walk with the wise so I might also be wise (Prov. 13:20a). Since I uttered that request years ago, I’ve seen the Lord answer in abundance.

Yesterday, I went to lunch with three of those godly friends – Debbie, Sheila, and Liz. We co-lead Sisterhood Cares, a prayer ministry at our church which reaches out to ladies who are going through a difficult time. The trial could be a family crisis, health issue, or loss of a loved one.

Though we share the same passion for the Lord and for helping hurting women, we’re different. Debbie is an aerobics instructor, cancer overcomer, and prayer warrior. Sheila is a writer, counselor, and grandmother. Liz, also a grandmother, is a business owner, pastor, and CrossFit competitor. The four of us met together to plan for an upcoming Sisterhood Cares meeting. But, once we’d covered the ministry details, we took turns sharing how we could pray for each other during our church’s 21-day fast.

When it was my turn, I was able to be honest, raw, and real about my current struggles. There wasn’t any judgment at that table. Only acceptance and love. That’s the power of Christ-centered community.

One of the most precious gifts God gives is other people. We’re not meant to go through this life alone. Friends give us God’s comfort. Friends love us despite our flaws and failures. Friends speak truth when we need to hear it. Friends lift us up when we’re down in the pit.

If you’re thinking about doing a Daniel Fast (or any type of fast), ask a friend to join you. Then, you can be accountable to one another and pray for one another. “Two people are better off than one, for they can help each other succeed. If one person falls, the other can reach out and help. But someone who falls alone is in real trouble” (Ecc. 4:9-10 NLT).

Maybe you’re in the same position I was when I was younger, and you’re lacking in solid friendships. Pray for them! You can be confident God will provide because He wants you to have godly influences in your life. And He wants you to be one as well.

Finally, if you’re feeling prompted by the Lord to enter into a time of prayer and fasting, you can join me and our church in our 21-day fast. It’s not too late!

May the Lord bless you with wonderful, God-fearing friends, who spur you on to be more like Jesus!

 

When You’re Desperate to Hear From God

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When You're Desperate to Hear From GodPeople choose to participate in the Daniel Fast for various reasons. Sometimes they need direction, such as when facing a major life decision. They cry out to God for emotional or physical healing. They seek the Lord’s favor in a particular situation.

But many times, it’s desperation that drives people to do the Daniel Fast. A wife fasts for her husband’s salvation. Parents fast for their wayward child. A newly saved meth addict fasts for freedom from dependence upon drugs.

Someone who is desperate has an urgent need and often has little or no hope. Does that sound like you? Do you feel like you’re drowning in despair? If so, take heart. God cares for you. He does see your pain, and He isn’t distant or disengaged.

The Daniel Fast helps you to focus on the Lord and His truth instead of on your circumstances. As you commit yourself to prayer, you take your eyes off yourself and put them onto your God. As you anchor yourself in the Word, you become faith-filled instead of fearful. Joyful instead of tearful. Encouraged rather than discouraged.

How do I know? Because I’ve experienced these transformations myself various times. I’ve seen God take my poor, pitiful self and breathe life into me when I felt hopeless, useless, powerless, and empty. I know He can and will do the same for you.

The Bible is clear that fasting is powerful and supernatural. In Mark 9, a father brought his demon-possessed son to the disciples, but they were unable to drive out the evil spirit. When Jesus came upon the scene, he rebuked the evil spirit, and the boy was set free. Later, in private, the disciples asked Jesus why they weren’t able to heal the boy. Jesus responded, “This kind can come out only by prayer and fasting” (Mark 9:29).

If you’re facing what seems like an impossible situation, fast and pray.

If your marriage is in turmoil, fast and pray.

If you’re stuck in a spiritual rut and need a fresh touch from the Lord, fast and pray.

If you’re desperate to hear from the Lord, then the Daniel Fast may be just what you need right now.

[For more information on the Daniel Fast, get my book, The Ultimate Guide to the Daniel Fast.]

Get Alone With God

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Get Alone With God

Do you have a special place where you like to read your Bible and pray? Maybe it’s a comfy chair or a designated area of your house. Perhaps you’re like me and you can best hear from the Lord outside among His creation, such as in the mountains or on the beach.

But sometimes life gets hectic. Before we know it,we’ve failed to connect with our heavenly Father for days. Weeks. Sometimes even months. 

I say “we” because I’ve been there. Often. So, don’t worry. You’re not alone.

All throughout the month of May, I struggled with being consistent in reading God’s Word. Prayer was often sporadic as well. Although I thought about the Lord, I rarely took the time to commune with Him. Instead, I kept myself busy with other things. With less important things. Soon I missed my Friend. I desperately needed some one-on-one with Him, and I longed to hear His voice.

Last night at our church’s Wednesday night prayer service, I confessed to the Lord how I’d been rebellious and lazy and apathetic. I also thanked God for His mercy and grace and patience.  A huge weight was lifted from my shoulders as I expressed my deep desire to grow closer to Him. 

Has something similar ever happened to you? 

When we feel distant from the Lord, it’s because we have pulled back, not because He has. The best remedy for that kind of situation is to humble ourselves before the Lord and just talk to Him. In those moments, we can be completely honest about our feelings and struggles because He knows our hearts anyway. 

God is always ready to meet with us. He’s never too busy. Never distracted. Never inconvenienced. When we make a move toward the Lord, His arms are already open wide, ready to embrace us in unconditional love. 

I want to encourage you to get away with the Lord today. Go to your special place where you can be alone with Him. If you don’t have one, ask God to provide.  (Also, if you’d like a plan for regular Bible reading, check out my recent blog post, “One Month of Psalms.”)

No matter how you feel right now, after a few moments with the Lord, you’ll be changed. Strengthened. Uplifted. And blessed.

May God fill your heart with great joy as you spend time in His presence today! 

{Additional resources for growth in your prayer life: The Ultimate Guide to the Daniel Fast, Lift Up Your Voice: 21 Daily Devotions for Your Daniel Fast, and Spiritually Strong: The Ultimate 6-Week Guide to Building Your Body and Soul.}