Nehemiah 9:19-21 "Because of your great compassion you did not abandon them in the desert. By day the pillar of cloud did not cease to guide them on their path nor the pillar of fire by night to shine on the way they were to take. You gave your good Spirit to instruct them. You did not withhold your manna from their mouths, and you gave them water for their thirst. For 40 years you sustained them in the desert; they lacked nothing, their clothes did not wear out nor did their feet become swollen" (NIV).
About 1,000 years have passed, since God and Moses led the children of Israel out of Egypt. God has not changed, and, unfortunately, neither have the Israelites (in general). At the time of the writing of the book of Nehemiah, the children of Israel have been through yet another time of captivity, in Babylon.
God has remained faithful, however. Through Nehemiah, who gains favor as King Cyrus' cupbearer, the walls of Jerusalem get rebuilt...finally. On the day of dedicating the walls, the Levites (one of the 12 tribes of Israel) pray the longest prayer in the Bible. It's long, but it's good.
In the Levites' prayer, they remind God (and, hence, remind the people) of how faithful He has been. It's good to think back to all that God has done for you and your family, of how He has walked through the wilderness with you. It develops in us an attitude of gratitude.
Psalm 100:4c [NLT]
"Give thanks to Him and praise His Name."
What this has to do with weight loss: For those of us who have lived with weight issues, we know that this is our Egypt or Babylon...our time of enslavement. But we don't have to live there forever! God wants to lead us out--no matter how long it takes (which will depend on our ability to listen and obey). Maybe you're still there, but you recognize that you're not as deep in it as you once were. Maybe you're well on your way out. Maybe you're out but working really hard not to go back there. Wherever you are, recognize that God has been the ultimate Promise Keeper, and has helped you on your journey. Take time to remember, and give Him thanks and praise His Name.
Prayer for Today:
"Heavenly Father, we've been through some wilderness wanderings, You and I, haven't we. I've not always been faithful, but You have. I remember the times I walked the wrong path, but still You gently led me back to the right road. I remember the times I didn't listen to Your Voice, yet You continued to whisper to me. I remember the times when I stubbornly left You out of my life, and You let me be...for a time. You have been so wonderful to me--much better than I deserve. Thank You, Father. I praise Your Holy Name."
Go forth today, remembering how God is leading you out of enslavement--for good and for always, and give Him praise.
Tuesday, December 22, 2009
Friday, December 18, 2009
Life Plan Devotion #149 [Constancy]
Exodus 13:21-22 "By day the LORD went ahead of them in a pillar of cloud to guide them on their way and by night in a pillar of fire to give them light, so that they could travel by day or night. Neither the pillar of cloud by day nor the pillar of fire by night left its place in front of the people" (NIV).
God's manifested presence to the children of Israel came in the form of "a pillar of cloud" by day and "a pillar of fire" by night. Try to picture that. I did. I "saw" everything from a tiny, fluffy cloud to a massive, thick cloud. I was leaning more toward the latter, especially since it had to have been large enough, as the pillar of fire by night, to adequately light the way for the vast number of Israelites, when they needed to travel at night. [Exodus 12:37 mentions 600,000 men. With women, children, and elderly men, the total could have been 2-3 million people.]
In looking up the words "pillar" and "cloud" for these verses in Exodus chapter 13, I found that the Hebrew word for "pillar" means "a standing column," and the word for "cloud" means "a cloud (as covering the sky); the nimbus or thundercloud." What an awesome sight that must have been, day or night. It was huge!
God's presence was constant, and constancy is still one of God's most beloved attributes. God's people, from the time of the wilderness wandering to this very day, tend to be a people who murmur, complain, and provoke God's longsuffering, yet He never leaves us. God is here, to lead and guide us, if we will only look to Him.
What this has to do with weight loss: God is constant in His offering to help, but are we constant in our accepting of that help. Think of your own weight-loss journey. If you have asked God to help you progress on your way, are you being constant/faithful in following His constant/faithful leading? He won't force you to, of course, but it is to your advantage to do so.
Prayer for Today:
"Heavenly Father, I praise You for Your unfailing, faithful constancy. I thank You for being willing to lead and guide me always, in every area of my life. I know that I must yield to Your leading, and that is my prayer for today. Father, I yield to You, in every way, in every area of my life. I know You will lead and guide me this day. May I follow constantly. In Jesus' Name. Amen."
Go forth today, following constantly your constant Heavenly Father and guide.
God's manifested presence to the children of Israel came in the form of "a pillar of cloud" by day and "a pillar of fire" by night. Try to picture that. I did. I "saw" everything from a tiny, fluffy cloud to a massive, thick cloud. I was leaning more toward the latter, especially since it had to have been large enough, as the pillar of fire by night, to adequately light the way for the vast number of Israelites, when they needed to travel at night. [Exodus 12:37 mentions 600,000 men. With women, children, and elderly men, the total could have been 2-3 million people.]
In looking up the words "pillar" and "cloud" for these verses in Exodus chapter 13, I found that the Hebrew word for "pillar" means "a standing column," and the word for "cloud" means "a cloud (as covering the sky); the nimbus or thundercloud." What an awesome sight that must have been, day or night. It was huge!
God's presence was constant, and constancy is still one of God's most beloved attributes. God's people, from the time of the wilderness wandering to this very day, tend to be a people who murmur, complain, and provoke God's longsuffering, yet He never leaves us. God is here, to lead and guide us, if we will only look to Him.
What this has to do with weight loss: God is constant in His offering to help, but are we constant in our accepting of that help. Think of your own weight-loss journey. If you have asked God to help you progress on your way, are you being constant/faithful in following His constant/faithful leading? He won't force you to, of course, but it is to your advantage to do so.
Prayer for Today:
"Heavenly Father, I praise You for Your unfailing, faithful constancy. I thank You for being willing to lead and guide me always, in every area of my life. I know that I must yield to Your leading, and that is my prayer for today. Father, I yield to You, in every way, in every area of my life. I know You will lead and guide me this day. May I follow constantly. In Jesus' Name. Amen."
Go forth today, following constantly your constant Heavenly Father and guide.
Thursday, December 17, 2009
Life Plan Devotion #148 [Guidance]
Exodus 13:21-22 "By day the LORD went ahead of them in a pillar of cloud to guide them on their way and by night in a pillar of fire to give them light, so that they could travel by day or night. Neither the pillar of cloud by day nor the pillar of fire by night left its place in front of the people" (NIV).
Moses, empowered and protected by God, has led the children of Israel out of the land of Egypt, out of bondage, and bound for the Promised Land...Canaan. Between Egypt and "the land flowing with milk and honey," a wilderness must be crossed.
Picture with me an Israelite woman, perhaps from the tribe of Judah ("Judah" means "praise") rising early in the morning, lifting up the flap of the family tent, and walking out into the sunrise. She looks up at the sky, sees the standing-column pillar turn from fire to cloud, breathes a sigh of relief and whispers, "The LORD is still with us. Praise His Holy Name."
Nothing is more important to God's children than knowing that He is with us, that He does not leave us in our wilderness journey from this earthly land of Egypt to our heavenly Canaan Land. While we do not see a tangible evidence of God's presence, and, as we did the children of Israel, we have something better--His indwelling presence, and, as we look to Him and follow Him, we experience His daily provision and guidance.
As we begin a new mini-series on God's guidance, think about how He has guided you throughout your life, so far. Take a moment today to thank Him for His leading.
What this has to do with weight loss: There are moments on our weight-loss journey when we just don't know which way to turn. Perhaps there's something that just doesn't feel quite right, but we're not sure what it is. Perhaps our exercise routine has lost its effectiveness, and we're not sure what to change. Perhaps we're at a weight-loss plateau, so we need to know how to jumpstart our body. We have Someone who will guide us, who will give us ideas to try or put someone in our path who will give us just the right information we need, at just the right moment. God cares about every part of our journey, even your weight-loss journey. Turn to Him for guidance. He is faithful.
Prayer for Today:
"Heavenly Father, even though I cannot see You, as did the Israelites, when You went before them as a pillar of cloud by day and a pillar of fire by night, I am persuaded that You never leave me or forsake me. You have promised that in Your Word. I need Your guidance, Lord, because I recognize that on my own, I can falter and lose my way. Thank You for showing me the path I should take this day. My eyes are on You, and my ears are listening for Your voice. In Jesus' Name. Amen."
Go forth today, walking in the guidance of your loving Heavenly Father.
Moses, empowered and protected by God, has led the children of Israel out of the land of Egypt, out of bondage, and bound for the Promised Land...Canaan. Between Egypt and "the land flowing with milk and honey," a wilderness must be crossed.
Picture with me an Israelite woman, perhaps from the tribe of Judah ("Judah" means "praise") rising early in the morning, lifting up the flap of the family tent, and walking out into the sunrise. She looks up at the sky, sees the standing-column pillar turn from fire to cloud, breathes a sigh of relief and whispers, "The LORD is still with us. Praise His Holy Name."
Nothing is more important to God's children than knowing that He is with us, that He does not leave us in our wilderness journey from this earthly land of Egypt to our heavenly Canaan Land. While we do not see a tangible evidence of God's presence, and, as we did the children of Israel, we have something better--His indwelling presence, and, as we look to Him and follow Him, we experience His daily provision and guidance.
As we begin a new mini-series on God's guidance, think about how He has guided you throughout your life, so far. Take a moment today to thank Him for His leading.
What this has to do with weight loss: There are moments on our weight-loss journey when we just don't know which way to turn. Perhaps there's something that just doesn't feel quite right, but we're not sure what it is. Perhaps our exercise routine has lost its effectiveness, and we're not sure what to change. Perhaps we're at a weight-loss plateau, so we need to know how to jumpstart our body. We have Someone who will guide us, who will give us ideas to try or put someone in our path who will give us just the right information we need, at just the right moment. God cares about every part of our journey, even your weight-loss journey. Turn to Him for guidance. He is faithful.
Prayer for Today:
"Heavenly Father, even though I cannot see You, as did the Israelites, when You went before them as a pillar of cloud by day and a pillar of fire by night, I am persuaded that You never leave me or forsake me. You have promised that in Your Word. I need Your guidance, Lord, because I recognize that on my own, I can falter and lose my way. Thank You for showing me the path I should take this day. My eyes are on You, and my ears are listening for Your voice. In Jesus' Name. Amen."
Go forth today, walking in the guidance of your loving Heavenly Father.
Wednesday, December 16, 2009
Life Plan Devotion #147 [It's all about Him]
II Corinthians 9:11 "You will be made rich in every way so that you can be generous on every occasion, and through us your generosity will result in thanksgiving to God" (NIV).
In connection with the Kingdom principle of sowing and reaping, we have learned that
1) One's harvest is in proportion to the amount of seed sown.
2) Giving is a "matter of the heart," and must be done thoughtfully, prayerfully, and decisively.
3) God blesses the giver, so the giver can give more.
4) Generous givers are remembered, forever.
5) God provides for the needs of the sower.
Today, let us look at the final point of this portion of II Corinthians 9:6-11. In the King James Version, verse 11 says, "Being enriched in every thing to all bountifulness, which causeth through us thanksgiving to God."
The Greek word for "enriched" is “ploutizō” and it means "to make wealthy." The Greek word for "bountifulness" is “haplotēs” and it means "sincerity (without self-seeking), generosity, liberality." The Greek word for "thanksgiving" is “eucharistia” which means "gratitude: act, grateful language (to God, as an act of worship):--thankfulness (giving of) thanks; thanksgiving."
God blesses givers, in every way, for their generosity that flows from a sincere, selfless act of giving. Yes, God gives to givers, so the giver can give more, and God provides for the needs of the giver. The ultimate purpose of the gift and the giver, however, is to produce, within the giver and the recipients of the gifts, gratitude to God and worshipful giving of thanks.
Oh, you can see that, truly it is all about Him! Godly giving begins and ends with God. He prompts, He instructs, He enables, He provides, He blesses, and He deserves all the praise. We can do nothing, especially give to others, without Him.
Be a giver God can bless, for "You will be made rich in every way. Then you can always give freely...your many gifts [taken] to the people who need them. And they will give thanks to God" (NIRV).
What this has to do with weight loss: Yesterday I received a message from a friend, and she talked about thinking about how blessed we are (each of us). I don't think we do that enough. Do you? God has richly given us all things to enjoy, yet how many do we take for granted. Take some time out for gratitude today. Even with regard to your weight-loss journey, you are surely blessed with those who help you. Give thanks to God for each person who has walked this path with you. Give thanks to God for His abiding presence and help, too.
Confession:
I am a giver. God makes me wealthy in every way, so I can be generous in every way. I thank God and worship Him with great praise, as do those He enables me to help.
In connection with the Kingdom principle of sowing and reaping, we have learned that
1) One's harvest is in proportion to the amount of seed sown.
2) Giving is a "matter of the heart," and must be done thoughtfully, prayerfully, and decisively.
3) God blesses the giver, so the giver can give more.
4) Generous givers are remembered, forever.
5) God provides for the needs of the sower.
Today, let us look at the final point of this portion of II Corinthians 9:6-11. In the King James Version, verse 11 says, "Being enriched in every thing to all bountifulness, which causeth through us thanksgiving to God."
The Greek word for "enriched" is “ploutizō” and it means "to make wealthy." The Greek word for "bountifulness" is “haplotēs” and it means "sincerity (without self-seeking), generosity, liberality." The Greek word for "thanksgiving" is “eucharistia” which means "gratitude: act, grateful language (to God, as an act of worship):--thankfulness (giving of) thanks; thanksgiving."
God blesses givers, in every way, for their generosity that flows from a sincere, selfless act of giving. Yes, God gives to givers, so the giver can give more, and God provides for the needs of the giver. The ultimate purpose of the gift and the giver, however, is to produce, within the giver and the recipients of the gifts, gratitude to God and worshipful giving of thanks.
Oh, you can see that, truly it is all about Him! Godly giving begins and ends with God. He prompts, He instructs, He enables, He provides, He blesses, and He deserves all the praise. We can do nothing, especially give to others, without Him.
Be a giver God can bless, for "You will be made rich in every way. Then you can always give freely...your many gifts [taken] to the people who need them. And they will give thanks to God" (NIRV).
What this has to do with weight loss: Yesterday I received a message from a friend, and she talked about thinking about how blessed we are (each of us). I don't think we do that enough. Do you? God has richly given us all things to enjoy, yet how many do we take for granted. Take some time out for gratitude today. Even with regard to your weight-loss journey, you are surely blessed with those who help you. Give thanks to God for each person who has walked this path with you. Give thanks to God for His abiding presence and help, too.
Confession:
I am a giver. God makes me wealthy in every way, so I can be generous in every way. I thank God and worship Him with great praise, as do those He enables me to help.
Tuesday, December 15, 2009
Life Plan Devotion #146 [Experiment in Tithing]
Malachi 3:10 "'Bring the whole tithe into the storehouse, that there may be food in my house. Test me in this,' says the LORD Almighty, 'and see if I will not throw open the floodgates of heaven and pour out so much blessing that you will not have room enough for it'" (NIV).
Today, we end the mini-series on giving. Perhaps you've heard it said that "You can't outgive God." That is so true. John Bunyan (author of Pilgrim's Progress) wrote, "A man there was and they called him mad; the more he gave, the more he had." The "world" doesn't get that, but, for the Christian who knows, believes, and acts on God's Word, that saying is true.
While we are not to tempt or test God, there is one place in the Bible where He gives us permission to test Him, to "prove" Him. It's Malachi 3:10 (our key verse, above). With that verse in mind, read the following true story about an experiment in tithing.
Perry Hayden, a Quaker from Tecumseh, Michigan, in 1940, heard a message on tithing, based on John 12:24, "I tell you the truth, unless a kernel of wheat falls to the ground and dies, it remains only a single seed. But if it dies, it produces many seeds" (NIV). He asked himself, "How much is 'much fruit' (King James Version of 'many seeds'), and how would tithing affect that?"
My. Hayden committed, before the Lord, to take 1 cubic inch (360 kernels) of wheat, sow it, and of everything that came in from that cubic inch, he'd tithe 10%, then sow the remaining 90% back into the ground, and he would do that for 6 years.
These are the basic statistics, in the interest of space:
Year #1, it took 4' x 8' to plant 1 cubic inch of wheat. He had a small harvest. He tithed 10%, sowing the remaining 90 percent. He continued the practice of tithing 10% of the harvest and sowing the remaining 90% back into the ground, each year for 6 years.
Year #2, it took 24' x 60' to plant.
Year #3, it took 3/4 of an acre to plant.
Year #4, it took 14 acres to plant.
Year #5, it took 230 acres to plant.
Year #6, 5,000 bushels of wheat kernels were sown on 2,666 acres.
360 kernels of wheat became 55 billion kernels of wheat in 6 years! Figuring the average yield of wheat farmers in the area, if they had not tithed but had sown 100%, they'd have made only about $21,000 over the 6 years. With Mr. Hayden tithing 10% and sowing 90%, God prospered his yield above the average farmer's, so that he made $288,000 in 6 years.
If you tithe 10%, God will bless the remaining 90%!
What this has to do with weight loss: Every day, you sow a seed for your weight-loss harvest. With every good habit, you set into motion a harvest of good health. Just as the farmer must be patient after sowing seed, resisting the urge to dig it back up to see if it's growing, you must be patient and allow for the slow changes. Just as the Lord honors your obedience in tithing, giving you an abundant harvest, if you partner with Him, and if you don't give up, one day, you'll see a whole new, healthier you.
Confession:
I am a tither. I give God 10% of all I earn. He blesses the remaining 90%, and I experience Floodgate blessings from Heaven.
Today, we end the mini-series on giving. Perhaps you've heard it said that "You can't outgive God." That is so true. John Bunyan (author of Pilgrim's Progress) wrote, "A man there was and they called him mad; the more he gave, the more he had." The "world" doesn't get that, but, for the Christian who knows, believes, and acts on God's Word, that saying is true.
While we are not to tempt or test God, there is one place in the Bible where He gives us permission to test Him, to "prove" Him. It's Malachi 3:10 (our key verse, above). With that verse in mind, read the following true story about an experiment in tithing.
Perry Hayden, a Quaker from Tecumseh, Michigan, in 1940, heard a message on tithing, based on John 12:24, "I tell you the truth, unless a kernel of wheat falls to the ground and dies, it remains only a single seed. But if it dies, it produces many seeds" (NIV). He asked himself, "How much is 'much fruit' (King James Version of 'many seeds'), and how would tithing affect that?"
My. Hayden committed, before the Lord, to take 1 cubic inch (360 kernels) of wheat, sow it, and of everything that came in from that cubic inch, he'd tithe 10%, then sow the remaining 90% back into the ground, and he would do that for 6 years.
These are the basic statistics, in the interest of space:
Year #1, it took 4' x 8' to plant 1 cubic inch of wheat. He had a small harvest. He tithed 10%, sowing the remaining 90 percent. He continued the practice of tithing 10% of the harvest and sowing the remaining 90% back into the ground, each year for 6 years.
Year #2, it took 24' x 60' to plant.
Year #3, it took 3/4 of an acre to plant.
Year #4, it took 14 acres to plant.
Year #5, it took 230 acres to plant.
Year #6, 5,000 bushels of wheat kernels were sown on 2,666 acres.
360 kernels of wheat became 55 billion kernels of wheat in 6 years! Figuring the average yield of wheat farmers in the area, if they had not tithed but had sown 100%, they'd have made only about $21,000 over the 6 years. With Mr. Hayden tithing 10% and sowing 90%, God prospered his yield above the average farmer's, so that he made $288,000 in 6 years.
If you tithe 10%, God will bless the remaining 90%!
What this has to do with weight loss: Every day, you sow a seed for your weight-loss harvest. With every good habit, you set into motion a harvest of good health. Just as the farmer must be patient after sowing seed, resisting the urge to dig it back up to see if it's growing, you must be patient and allow for the slow changes. Just as the Lord honors your obedience in tithing, giving you an abundant harvest, if you partner with Him, and if you don't give up, one day, you'll see a whole new, healthier you.
Confession:
I am a tither. I give God 10% of all I earn. He blesses the remaining 90%, and I experience Floodgate blessings from Heaven.
Monday, December 14, 2009
Life Plan Devotion #145 [Four Promises]
II Corinthians 9:10 "Now He who supplies seed to the sower and bread for food will also supply and increase your store of seed and will enlarge the harvest of your righteousness" (NIV).
In connection with the Kingdom principle of sowing and reaping, we have learned that
1) One's harvest is in proportion to the amount of seed sown.
2) Giving is a "matter of the heart," and must be done thoughtfully, prayerfully, and decisively.
3) God blesses the giver, so the giver can give more.
4) Generous givers are remembered, forever.
I love this verse (II Corinthians 9:10), because it contains four promises within it. The first promise is that God will supply seed to the sower. If I desire to be a generous giver, God is going to help me do that, by providing the seed. If you sincerely pray, asking God to provide so that you can give more, He will do it. Back up your prayer with the Word from II Corinthians 9:10, and watch God work!
The second promise is that God will supply "bread for food" to the sower. You see, God does not just care that you are able to give, He cares that your needs are supplied, as well. The Greek word for "sower" is speirō (spi’-ro), which not only means "to scatter," but it also means "receive seed." Both promises are held within that one Greek word, sower.
The third promise is that God will "supply and increase your store of seed." Not only will God make sure you have seed to sow (if you ask for it), but He will go beyond that. God is so willing to "multiply the loaves and fishes." If you know about these promises and act on them by praying and believing that you receive, you will see that "increase" of "seed." It could happen all at once, but most believers have faith to see it happen gradually. God will move according to your heartfelt faith.
The fourth promise is that God "will enlarge the harvest of your righteousness." This is the fruit of the believer who abides in Christ and in the Word. The harvest will be physical, spiritual, and financial. Keep track of your blessings, as you generously give, and you will see the "fruit." Get into the habit of really paying attention. So often we look for the "windfall," when the incremental blessings (like small raises in pay) are important, as well.
What this has to do with weight loss: No matter how much weight you have to lose, the number can look rather daunting. Instead of focusing on the entire amount, focus on 10 lbs. at a time, or even 1 lb. at a time. As you rely on the Lord to give you the help to release one pound of weight, He will supply that help. As you are obedient to His instruction, He will honor your obedience and you will see another pound of weight go. It's a gradual process, and one which requires your patience. Take it one day, one pound at a time.
Confession:
God provides and multiplies seed for me to sow, and He takes care of my needs.
In connection with the Kingdom principle of sowing and reaping, we have learned that
1) One's harvest is in proportion to the amount of seed sown.
2) Giving is a "matter of the heart," and must be done thoughtfully, prayerfully, and decisively.
3) God blesses the giver, so the giver can give more.
4) Generous givers are remembered, forever.
I love this verse (II Corinthians 9:10), because it contains four promises within it. The first promise is that God will supply seed to the sower. If I desire to be a generous giver, God is going to help me do that, by providing the seed. If you sincerely pray, asking God to provide so that you can give more, He will do it. Back up your prayer with the Word from II Corinthians 9:10, and watch God work!
The second promise is that God will supply "bread for food" to the sower. You see, God does not just care that you are able to give, He cares that your needs are supplied, as well. The Greek word for "sower" is speirō (spi’-ro), which not only means "to scatter," but it also means "receive seed." Both promises are held within that one Greek word, sower.
The third promise is that God will "supply and increase your store of seed." Not only will God make sure you have seed to sow (if you ask for it), but He will go beyond that. God is so willing to "multiply the loaves and fishes." If you know about these promises and act on them by praying and believing that you receive, you will see that "increase" of "seed." It could happen all at once, but most believers have faith to see it happen gradually. God will move according to your heartfelt faith.
The fourth promise is that God "will enlarge the harvest of your righteousness." This is the fruit of the believer who abides in Christ and in the Word. The harvest will be physical, spiritual, and financial. Keep track of your blessings, as you generously give, and you will see the "fruit." Get into the habit of really paying attention. So often we look for the "windfall," when the incremental blessings (like small raises in pay) are important, as well.
What this has to do with weight loss: No matter how much weight you have to lose, the number can look rather daunting. Instead of focusing on the entire amount, focus on 10 lbs. at a time, or even 1 lb. at a time. As you rely on the Lord to give you the help to release one pound of weight, He will supply that help. As you are obedient to His instruction, He will honor your obedience and you will see another pound of weight go. It's a gradual process, and one which requires your patience. Take it one day, one pound at a time.
Confession:
God provides and multiplies seed for me to sow, and He takes care of my needs.
Friday, December 11, 2009
Life Plan Devotion #144 [How will you be remembered?]
II Corinthians 9:9 "As it is written, 'He [the benevolent person] scatters abroad; He gives to the poor; His deeds of justice and goodness and kindness and benevolence will go on and endure forever!'" (Amplified)
Our key verse defines God's giver as one who "scatters abroad" his gifts. That means that God's giver is a liberal giver. Visualize with me two seed sowers. One sower reaches into his bag of seed, grabs the biggest handful he can, and flings the seed, repeating the process over and over, until the ground is covered with seed. The other sower carefully counts out three seeds, to place in each hole, and repeats the process every 6 inches. Which one is the generous sower? The first one, of course. Which one will reap the abundant harvest? The first one.
According to Psalm 112:9, God equates giving with "righteousness." An easy way to remember the meaning of "righteousness" is to think of it as "right standing with God." It also means "equity (of character or act)." God's giver gives because it's a natural outpouring of thanks to God, and, frankly, it's "the right thing to do."
Based on the fact that the early Christian church had "all things in common" and "gave to those who had need" (Acts 2:44-45) and the fact that, over all, traditionally, Jewish people are well off because they take care of one another, I believe that if every churchgoer gave as he/she should give (10% tithe and over and above that, in offerings), there would be no need for government-funded social programs. It's rather difficult to feed someone spiritually, if that person is physically hungry. I know it's overwhelming; the need is so great all over the world, but what could happen if God's people gave and gave generously.
The "righteousness" of God's giver "endures forever." How long will you be remembered, after you're gone? One of the ways you can be remembered is by being a giver. No, you don't have to give a huge amount and have a plaque put up with your name on it (that would seem to go against the scripture that says, "When you give, don't let your left hand know what your right hand is doing" Matthew 6:3). Others will recognize a giver, because a giver will give of not only their treasure, but their time and talents, as well.
When you give, you bless others, but you also reap blessings on yourself and your family, blessings that will continue from generation to generation. God will see your secret giving and "will reward you openly" (Matthew 6:4), not only in "the here and now," but for all eternity.
What this has to do with weight loss: On the weight-loss journey, we can become too focused on our journey, too focused on the number on the scale, too focused on our weight issues, that we forget that there are more important things (and people). We must strike a balance between being focused on self and focused on others. There's room for both. In the end, though, it really won't matter how much weight we lost. What will matter is how we influenced others. May that influence be for good, not ill, so that when others reflect on our life, they'll remember how we helped and didn't hurt, and may the memories attached to our name and life live on long after we're gone.
Confession:
I am a generous giver, and my "righteousness endures forever."
Our key verse defines God's giver as one who "scatters abroad" his gifts. That means that God's giver is a liberal giver. Visualize with me two seed sowers. One sower reaches into his bag of seed, grabs the biggest handful he can, and flings the seed, repeating the process over and over, until the ground is covered with seed. The other sower carefully counts out three seeds, to place in each hole, and repeats the process every 6 inches. Which one is the generous sower? The first one, of course. Which one will reap the abundant harvest? The first one.
According to Psalm 112:9, God equates giving with "righteousness." An easy way to remember the meaning of "righteousness" is to think of it as "right standing with God." It also means "equity (of character or act)." God's giver gives because it's a natural outpouring of thanks to God, and, frankly, it's "the right thing to do."
Based on the fact that the early Christian church had "all things in common" and "gave to those who had need" (Acts 2:44-45) and the fact that, over all, traditionally, Jewish people are well off because they take care of one another, I believe that if every churchgoer gave as he/she should give (10% tithe and over and above that, in offerings), there would be no need for government-funded social programs. It's rather difficult to feed someone spiritually, if that person is physically hungry. I know it's overwhelming; the need is so great all over the world, but what could happen if God's people gave and gave generously.
The "righteousness" of God's giver "endures forever." How long will you be remembered, after you're gone? One of the ways you can be remembered is by being a giver. No, you don't have to give a huge amount and have a plaque put up with your name on it (that would seem to go against the scripture that says, "When you give, don't let your left hand know what your right hand is doing" Matthew 6:3). Others will recognize a giver, because a giver will give of not only their treasure, but their time and talents, as well.
When you give, you bless others, but you also reap blessings on yourself and your family, blessings that will continue from generation to generation. God will see your secret giving and "will reward you openly" (Matthew 6:4), not only in "the here and now," but for all eternity.
What this has to do with weight loss: On the weight-loss journey, we can become too focused on our journey, too focused on the number on the scale, too focused on our weight issues, that we forget that there are more important things (and people). We must strike a balance between being focused on self and focused on others. There's room for both. In the end, though, it really won't matter how much weight we lost. What will matter is how we influenced others. May that influence be for good, not ill, so that when others reflect on our life, they'll remember how we helped and didn't hurt, and may the memories attached to our name and life live on long after we're gone.
Confession:
I am a generous giver, and my "righteousness endures forever."
Thursday, December 10, 2009
Life Plan Devotion #143 [Blessed]
II Corinthians 9:9 "As it is written: 'He has scattered abroad his gifts to the poor; his righteousness endures forever'" (NIV).
We have learned the following, in connection with the Kingdom principle of sowing and reaping:
1) One's harvest is in proportion to the amount of seed sown.
2) Giving is a "matter of the heart," and must be done thoughtfully, prayerfully, and decisively.
3) God blesses the giver, so the giver can give more.
Today, we will look at another way that the giver benefits. In verse 9 of II Corinthians chapter 9, Paul quotes the psalmist, from Psalm 112:9. What a great example, using the Word to back up what you say!
If one reads II Corinthians 9:9, as quoted from Psalm 112:9, without reading either passage in context, one might assume that the "he" of the verse refers to God, for surely He "has scattered abroad his gifts to the poor" and "his righteousness" indeed "endures forever." However, when one reads the previous verses of II Corinthians chapter 9 and the entire 112th chapter of Psalms, one understands that the "he" refers to the benevolent person, the giver.
I encourage you to read Psalm 112 (below), for it expounds on why "the man who fears [reverences] the LORD" is "blessed" (112:1). Reverence of God is the foundation of a life lived for Him. It speaks of awe, and when you are in awe of Him, you worship Him, and when you worship Him, you delight in serving Him. Giving is an integral part of serving Him.
Psalm 112 (NIV)
"Praise the LORD. Blessed is the man who fears [reverences] the LORD, who finds great delight in his commands. His children will be mighty in the land; each generation of the upright will be blessed. Wealth and riches are in his house, and his righteousness endures forever. Even in darkness light dawns for the upright, for the gracious and compassionate and righteous man. Good will come to him who is generous and lends freely, who conducts his affairs with justice. Surely he will never be shaken; a righteous man will be remembered forever. He will have no fear of bad news; his heart is steadfast, trusting in the LORD. His heart is secure, he will have no fear; in the end he will look in triumph on his foes. He has scattered abroad his gifts to the poor, his righteousness endures forever; his horn [symbolizes dignity] will be lifted high in honor. The wicked man will see and be vexed, he will gnash his teeth and waste away; the longings of the wicked will come to nothing." [Note: words defined in brackets by author, according to the original Hebrew.]
What this has to do with weight loss: Sometimes we believers who are on the weight-loss journey become afraid that it just won't happen for us, that, in the end, we'll end up the same as when we started. However, Psalm 112 promises that if we fear/reverence the LORD, delight in/follow His commands, good things are bound to happen, even when difficult moments come along the way. Give the Word to yourself, first, and then give to others, because you are blessed.
Confession:
I fear and reverence the Lord. I follow His commands. I am a giver. I am blessed.
We have learned the following, in connection with the Kingdom principle of sowing and reaping:
1) One's harvest is in proportion to the amount of seed sown.
2) Giving is a "matter of the heart," and must be done thoughtfully, prayerfully, and decisively.
3) God blesses the giver, so the giver can give more.
Today, we will look at another way that the giver benefits. In verse 9 of II Corinthians chapter 9, Paul quotes the psalmist, from Psalm 112:9. What a great example, using the Word to back up what you say!
If one reads II Corinthians 9:9, as quoted from Psalm 112:9, without reading either passage in context, one might assume that the "he" of the verse refers to God, for surely He "has scattered abroad his gifts to the poor" and "his righteousness" indeed "endures forever." However, when one reads the previous verses of II Corinthians chapter 9 and the entire 112th chapter of Psalms, one understands that the "he" refers to the benevolent person, the giver.
I encourage you to read Psalm 112 (below), for it expounds on why "the man who fears [reverences] the LORD" is "blessed" (112:1). Reverence of God is the foundation of a life lived for Him. It speaks of awe, and when you are in awe of Him, you worship Him, and when you worship Him, you delight in serving Him. Giving is an integral part of serving Him.
Psalm 112 (NIV)
"Praise the LORD. Blessed is the man who fears [reverences] the LORD, who finds great delight in his commands. His children will be mighty in the land; each generation of the upright will be blessed. Wealth and riches are in his house, and his righteousness endures forever. Even in darkness light dawns for the upright, for the gracious and compassionate and righteous man. Good will come to him who is generous and lends freely, who conducts his affairs with justice. Surely he will never be shaken; a righteous man will be remembered forever. He will have no fear of bad news; his heart is steadfast, trusting in the LORD. His heart is secure, he will have no fear; in the end he will look in triumph on his foes. He has scattered abroad his gifts to the poor, his righteousness endures forever; his horn [symbolizes dignity] will be lifted high in honor. The wicked man will see and be vexed, he will gnash his teeth and waste away; the longings of the wicked will come to nothing." [Note: words defined in brackets by author, according to the original Hebrew.]
What this has to do with weight loss: Sometimes we believers who are on the weight-loss journey become afraid that it just won't happen for us, that, in the end, we'll end up the same as when we started. However, Psalm 112 promises that if we fear/reverence the LORD, delight in/follow His commands, good things are bound to happen, even when difficult moments come along the way. Give the Word to yourself, first, and then give to others, because you are blessed.
Confession:
I fear and reverence the Lord. I follow His commands. I am a giver. I am blessed.
Wednesday, December 9, 2009
Life Plan Devotion #142 [When there's a need]
II Corinthians 9:8 "And God is able to make all grace abound to you, so that always having all sufficiency in everything, you may have an abundance for every good deed" (NASB).
Let's read that again. "God is able to make all grace abound to you, so that always having all sufficiency in everything, you may have an abundance for every good deed." Can you "get by" on less, so you can do more for others, in God's work? Oh, how God will bless, when you say "yes"!
My sweet pastor's wife told a true story, at a get-together of the wives of our church's elders and deacons. I wish I had the specific details (names, places, etc.), but I don't. As best as I can remember, I will relate this true story.
A single woman wanted to give to missions, as the need was great. She felt very discouraged, because she cleaned houses for a living and, so, did not make very much money. However, she was a tither and told God that she would give what she could (beyond her tithe) to missions. She was faithful in her giving, and soon the Lord blessed in that she was given another house to clean. She responded by increasing her tithe and giving to missions. Soon, the Lord blessed in that she was given a raise. She responded by giving more.
Some years went by, and this woman faithfully served God with her tithe and offerings. No one, except the church treasurer, surely, knew about her giving. One day, a missionary that the church helped support came to the church. This missionary said to the pastor, "I want to meet the woman who has given [X number of dollars] to my ministry." The amount stunned the pastor, so he said, "You must be mistaken. We have no one in our church wealthy enough to have given that amount!"
The missionary, looking puzzled, said, "Her name is [so and so]." Surprised, and with a voice that bespoke his awe, the pastor called for the woman to come forward. The woman and the missionary embraced, tearfully.
You may not think that you have "enough" to give, and maybe you're right, but I'm here to tell you that if you give to God and His Work, "God can give you all you need. He will give you more than enough. You will have everything you need for yourself. And you will have enough left over to give when there is a need" (II Cor. 9:8, NLV).
What this has to do with weight loss: When I'm struggling in my own weight-loss journey, I feel so inadequate, like I have nothing to give to anyone. If perfection is required, in order to truly "pay it forward," then I have nothing to give. However, if perfection is not required--and I don't think it is--then I can at least encourage others. When I am in need, it comforts and helps me to encourage others in need. Even if you need for others to reach out to you, don't wait for that. You do the reaching out, and the Lord will see to your needs.
Confession:
I am a giver. God gives me all I need and more, so I can give more.
Let's read that again. "God is able to make all grace abound to you, so that always having all sufficiency in everything, you may have an abundance for every good deed." Can you "get by" on less, so you can do more for others, in God's work? Oh, how God will bless, when you say "yes"!
My sweet pastor's wife told a true story, at a get-together of the wives of our church's elders and deacons. I wish I had the specific details (names, places, etc.), but I don't. As best as I can remember, I will relate this true story.
A single woman wanted to give to missions, as the need was great. She felt very discouraged, because she cleaned houses for a living and, so, did not make very much money. However, she was a tither and told God that she would give what she could (beyond her tithe) to missions. She was faithful in her giving, and soon the Lord blessed in that she was given another house to clean. She responded by increasing her tithe and giving to missions. Soon, the Lord blessed in that she was given a raise. She responded by giving more.
Some years went by, and this woman faithfully served God with her tithe and offerings. No one, except the church treasurer, surely, knew about her giving. One day, a missionary that the church helped support came to the church. This missionary said to the pastor, "I want to meet the woman who has given [X number of dollars] to my ministry." The amount stunned the pastor, so he said, "You must be mistaken. We have no one in our church wealthy enough to have given that amount!"
The missionary, looking puzzled, said, "Her name is [so and so]." Surprised, and with a voice that bespoke his awe, the pastor called for the woman to come forward. The woman and the missionary embraced, tearfully.
You may not think that you have "enough" to give, and maybe you're right, but I'm here to tell you that if you give to God and His Work, "God can give you all you need. He will give you more than enough. You will have everything you need for yourself. And you will have enough left over to give when there is a need" (II Cor. 9:8, NLV).
What this has to do with weight loss: When I'm struggling in my own weight-loss journey, I feel so inadequate, like I have nothing to give to anyone. If perfection is required, in order to truly "pay it forward," then I have nothing to give. However, if perfection is not required--and I don't think it is--then I can at least encourage others. When I am in need, it comforts and helps me to encourage others in need. Even if you need for others to reach out to you, don't wait for that. You do the reaching out, and the Lord will see to your needs.
Confession:
I am a giver. God gives me all I need and more, so I can give more.
Tuesday, December 8, 2009
Life Plan Devotion #141 [Grace abounds]
II Corinthians 9:8 "And God is able to make all grace abound to you, so that always having all sufficiency in everything, you may have an abundance for every good deed" (NASB).
We have been looking at the Kingdom principle of sowing and reaping. We have learned that our harvest is in proportion to the amount of seed we sow. We have learned that giving is truly a "matter of the heart," and must be done thoughtfully, prayerfully, and decisively.
Verse 8 of II Corinthians chapter 9 begins a section in which God, through Paul, shows us who benefits from giving. First of all, the giver benefits. When you give, God responds!
"God is able to make all grace abound to you" (v. 8a). Rejoice that "God is able"! The Greek word for "able" is dunatos (doo-nat-os’), which means "powerful or capable." What is God capable of doing (at least in this one context?) "God is able to make all grace abound to you."
The Greek word for "grace" is charis (khar'-ece), which means "the divine influence upon the heart, and its reflection in life:--benefit, favor, gift." The Greek word for "abound" is perisseuo (per-is-syoo'-o), which means to "superabound (in quantity or quality), be in excess, be superfluous; to cause to superabound or excel:--make, have, be more, enough and to spare."
If you are a giver, you will benefit by God's divine favor on your life. It's not that you "earn" that by giving, but it is how God responds. All the favor, all the benefits, all the gifts of God is available to the giver. Even though we give, it's all still unmerited favor.
While God blesses us in many ways, physically and spiritually, it is clear (by the context) that God blesses givers in a material way. God gives, so we can give more. We are blessed to be a blessing.
II Corinthians 8:2-5 [NIRV]
"In the midst of a very severe trial, their overflowing joy and their extreme poverty welled up in rich generosity. For I testify that they gave as much as they were able, and even beyond their ability. Entirely on their own, they urgently pleaded with us for the privilege of sharing in this service to the Lord's people. And they went beyond our expectations; having given themselves first of all to the Lord, they gave themselves by the will of God also to us."
What this has to do with weight loss: I don't know about you, but when I'm in a trial, especially a weight-loss journey trial, I become very introspective and can isolate myself. It's as if I think that if I focus on the trial or problem, I'll be able to climb my way out or come up with the answer. That seldom works. If I focus on others, however, looking for ways I can bless someone else, even when I think I have very little to give, I am able to experience relief in my trial. If you are smack dab in the middle of a trial, look to God and then look for ways to bless others. God will honor that, and He will bless and help you.
Confession:
I am a giver. I am blessed to be a blessing.
We have been looking at the Kingdom principle of sowing and reaping. We have learned that our harvest is in proportion to the amount of seed we sow. We have learned that giving is truly a "matter of the heart," and must be done thoughtfully, prayerfully, and decisively.
Verse 8 of II Corinthians chapter 9 begins a section in which God, through Paul, shows us who benefits from giving. First of all, the giver benefits. When you give, God responds!
"God is able to make all grace abound to you" (v. 8a). Rejoice that "God is able"! The Greek word for "able" is dunatos (doo-nat-os’), which means "powerful or capable." What is God capable of doing (at least in this one context?) "God is able to make all grace abound to you."
The Greek word for "grace" is charis (khar'-ece), which means "the divine influence upon the heart, and its reflection in life:--benefit, favor, gift." The Greek word for "abound" is perisseuo (per-is-syoo'-o), which means to "superabound (in quantity or quality), be in excess, be superfluous; to cause to superabound or excel:--make, have, be more, enough and to spare."
If you are a giver, you will benefit by God's divine favor on your life. It's not that you "earn" that by giving, but it is how God responds. All the favor, all the benefits, all the gifts of God is available to the giver. Even though we give, it's all still unmerited favor.
While God blesses us in many ways, physically and spiritually, it is clear (by the context) that God blesses givers in a material way. God gives, so we can give more. We are blessed to be a blessing.
II Corinthians 8:2-5 [NIRV]
"In the midst of a very severe trial, their overflowing joy and their extreme poverty welled up in rich generosity. For I testify that they gave as much as they were able, and even beyond their ability. Entirely on their own, they urgently pleaded with us for the privilege of sharing in this service to the Lord's people. And they went beyond our expectations; having given themselves first of all to the Lord, they gave themselves by the will of God also to us."
What this has to do with weight loss: I don't know about you, but when I'm in a trial, especially a weight-loss journey trial, I become very introspective and can isolate myself. It's as if I think that if I focus on the trial or problem, I'll be able to climb my way out or come up with the answer. That seldom works. If I focus on others, however, looking for ways I can bless someone else, even when I think I have very little to give, I am able to experience relief in my trial. If you are smack dab in the middle of a trial, look to God and then look for ways to bless others. God will honor that, and He will bless and help you.
Confession:
I am a giver. I am blessed to be a blessing.
Monday, December 7, 2009
Life Plan Devotion #140 [Guidelines for Giving, 3 of 3]
II Corinthians 9:7 "Each man should give what he has decided in his heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver" (NIV).
We have looked at two of the three guidelines for giving, as outlined in II Corinthians 9:7. We have learned 1) the giver should prayerfully decide the amount to give and the place to give it, and 2) godly giving takes resolve.
Today, let's look at the third guideline for giving, 3) give cheerfully and privately, without desiring to be thanked or "showcased." II Corinthians 9:7 says that "God loves a cheerful giver." What does that mean?
Think about a time when you cheerfully gave a gift to someone. Were you happy to give it? Absolutely. Were you prompt in giving it? Certainly. Did you choose the gift carefully, thoughtfully considering the person to whom the gift would be given? Yes. Did you give, expecting nothing in return? Hopefully so.
Yes, God loves a "cheerful giver." The Greek word for "cheerful" is
hilaros, and it means "merry, prompt or willing." It's where we get the word hilarious. A cheerful giver is happy to give, delights in giving. The Amplified Version says "a cheerful (joyous, 'prompt to do it') giver [whose heart is in his giving]." A cheerful giver can't help but give!
Matthew 10:8
"...Freely you have received, freely give."
What this has to do with weight loss: When I think of my own personal weight-loss journey, I feel so blessed. I have "received" much. I've received encouragement from others, advice, information, prayers, even had monetary and other needs met by my church family, friends, relatives, and even strangers. I have received freely and, I hope, gratefully and gracefully. Now, whenever, wherever, however I can, I try to give back. How about you? How can you encourage someone on their weight-loss journey today? Never think that what you have to give is too small or unimportant. If you have freely received, I encourage you to "freely give."
Confession:
I give thoughtfully, prayerfully, decisively, and joyfully.
We have looked at two of the three guidelines for giving, as outlined in II Corinthians 9:7. We have learned 1) the giver should prayerfully decide the amount to give and the place to give it, and 2) godly giving takes resolve.
Today, let's look at the third guideline for giving, 3) give cheerfully and privately, without desiring to be thanked or "showcased." II Corinthians 9:7 says that "God loves a cheerful giver." What does that mean?
Think about a time when you cheerfully gave a gift to someone. Were you happy to give it? Absolutely. Were you prompt in giving it? Certainly. Did you choose the gift carefully, thoughtfully considering the person to whom the gift would be given? Yes. Did you give, expecting nothing in return? Hopefully so.
Yes, God loves a "cheerful giver." The Greek word for "cheerful" is
hilaros, and it means "merry, prompt or willing." It's where we get the word hilarious. A cheerful giver is happy to give, delights in giving. The Amplified Version says "a cheerful (joyous, 'prompt to do it') giver [whose heart is in his giving]." A cheerful giver can't help but give!
Matthew 10:8
"...Freely you have received, freely give."
What this has to do with weight loss: When I think of my own personal weight-loss journey, I feel so blessed. I have "received" much. I've received encouragement from others, advice, information, prayers, even had monetary and other needs met by my church family, friends, relatives, and even strangers. I have received freely and, I hope, gratefully and gracefully. Now, whenever, wherever, however I can, I try to give back. How about you? How can you encourage someone on their weight-loss journey today? Never think that what you have to give is too small or unimportant. If you have freely received, I encourage you to "freely give."
Confession:
I give thoughtfully, prayerfully, decisively, and joyfully.
Friday, December 4, 2009
Life Plan Devotion #139 [Guidelines for Giving, 2 of 3]
II Corinthians 9:7 "Each man should give what he has decided in his heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver" (NIV).
Last time, we looked at the first of three guidelines for giving, as outlined in II Corinthians 9:7. The first guideline for godly giving is that the giver should prayerfully decide the amount to give and the place to give it.
Godly giving takes resolve, and that's the second guideline. If there is no decision, there will be no resolve. Giving is not a matter to be decided lightly or out of impulse. If you give because someone has "played on your emotions," like a telethon pledge, you may find that you regret it later, or, worse yet, do not follow through on your pledge.
If you prayerfully make a decision to give, you will not fall prey to the opposite giving outcome, which is "grudgingly" (KJV), "reluctantly or under compulsion" (ESV), you "feel sorry that you must give...feel that you are forced to give" (CEV), "sad when you give" (NCV), give "out of regret or out of necessity" (HCSB), "give [when] you don't want to" (NIRV), "give, wishing [you] could keep it" (NLV).
The Message Version of II Corinthians 9:7 says it this way: "I want each of you to take plenty of time to think it over, and make up your own mind what you will give. That will protect you against sob stories and arm-twisting..." Prayerfully consider and decide the amount to give and where to give it, then be resolved to follow through, no matter what.
Ecclesiastes 5:4-5 [NIV]
"When you make a vow to God, do not delay in fulfilling it... It is better not to vow than to make a vow and not fulfill it."
What this has to do with weight loss: How many promises have you made, in connection with your weight-loss journey? How many times have you promised your spouse, yourself, and/or God that you will exercise regularly (whether you feel like it or not), eat fewer carbs (or whatever will serve your body well, causing it to release more weight), or not make your family suffer for your weight-loss journey woes? God sees a promise as a vow. He takes it seriously, and so should you. Seriously consider any promise before you make it, planning carefully how you will fulfill it, and follow through. Do you have to be perfect at it? No, but God expects a perfect try. He will help you do what you cannot, as long as you have done all you can.
Confession:
I give thoughtfully, prayerfully, and with the resolve to follow through, no matter what.
Last time, we looked at the first of three guidelines for giving, as outlined in II Corinthians 9:7. The first guideline for godly giving is that the giver should prayerfully decide the amount to give and the place to give it.
Godly giving takes resolve, and that's the second guideline. If there is no decision, there will be no resolve. Giving is not a matter to be decided lightly or out of impulse. If you give because someone has "played on your emotions," like a telethon pledge, you may find that you regret it later, or, worse yet, do not follow through on your pledge.
If you prayerfully make a decision to give, you will not fall prey to the opposite giving outcome, which is "grudgingly" (KJV), "reluctantly or under compulsion" (ESV), you "feel sorry that you must give...feel that you are forced to give" (CEV), "sad when you give" (NCV), give "out of regret or out of necessity" (HCSB), "give [when] you don't want to" (NIRV), "give, wishing [you] could keep it" (NLV).
The Message Version of II Corinthians 9:7 says it this way: "I want each of you to take plenty of time to think it over, and make up your own mind what you will give. That will protect you against sob stories and arm-twisting..." Prayerfully consider and decide the amount to give and where to give it, then be resolved to follow through, no matter what.
Ecclesiastes 5:4-5 [NIV]
"When you make a vow to God, do not delay in fulfilling it... It is better not to vow than to make a vow and not fulfill it."
What this has to do with weight loss: How many promises have you made, in connection with your weight-loss journey? How many times have you promised your spouse, yourself, and/or God that you will exercise regularly (whether you feel like it or not), eat fewer carbs (or whatever will serve your body well, causing it to release more weight), or not make your family suffer for your weight-loss journey woes? God sees a promise as a vow. He takes it seriously, and so should you. Seriously consider any promise before you make it, planning carefully how you will fulfill it, and follow through. Do you have to be perfect at it? No, but God expects a perfect try. He will help you do what you cannot, as long as you have done all you can.
Confession:
I give thoughtfully, prayerfully, and with the resolve to follow through, no matter what.
Thursday, December 3, 2009
Life Plan Devotion #138 [Guidelines for Giving, 1 of 3]
II Corinthians 9:7 "Each man should give what he has decided in his heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver" (NIV).
Last time, we looked at II Corinthians 9:6 and began to look at the Kingdom principle of sowing and reaping. We discovered that which farmers know--we harvest in proportion to the amount of seed we sow.
Today, let's begin to look at II Corinthians 9:7, a verse in which God, through the Apostle Paul, gives us three guidelines for giving. For today, we will look at the first guideline. The intent, as always, is to reflect and learn. It is not to condemn. While you may experience conviction, if you experience condemnation/guilt, that's the work of the enemy, not the Holy Spirit. How can you know the difference? Satan loves to condemn, by giving you negative, condemning thoughts which have no "answer" or resolution. The Holy Spirit may convict, but He does so lovingly, with the intention of giving you the opportunity to repent and receive forgiveness, pointing you to the Word, which contains the "answer."
The first guideline for godly giving is that the giver should prayerfully decide the amount to give and the place to give it. The decision, according to II Corinthians 9:7, should me made in one's "heart." The Greek word for "heart" is kardia (kar-dee'-ah), and it means "heart, thoughts, feelings (mind)."
If you find that you quickly dig into your pocketbook or wallet while the offering prayer is being prayed, or you're busily writing your tithe check as the offering plate is being passed, you are missing out on the worship experience that giving is meant to be.
If you are not already doing so, I encourage you to take time each week, in advance of your giving, to pray. Praise God that He is Jehovah-Jireh (the God Who Provides), thank Him for His many blessings, ask Him how much He would like for you to give (above your tithe) and where you should give it (missions, building fund, special projects, etc.). He may or may not put a certain amount on your heart, but whether He does or not, the final decision must be yours.
Deuteronomy 16:17 [NLT]
"All must give as they are able, according to the blessings given to them by the LORD your God."
What this has to do with weight loss: Have you had people help you on your weight-loss journey? I know I have, and one of my greatest joys is when I can give back to someone who has helped me or even to a person who is just beginning their journey. While I am no expert in weight-loss circles, I can give that which I am able to give--my experience, my encouragement, my prayers, etc. God has blessed me, so I must "pay it forward." How can you give what you are able to give, today?
Confession:
I give thoughtfully, prayerfully, and with the intent to bless, as I am able.
Last time, we looked at II Corinthians 9:6 and began to look at the Kingdom principle of sowing and reaping. We discovered that which farmers know--we harvest in proportion to the amount of seed we sow.
Today, let's begin to look at II Corinthians 9:7, a verse in which God, through the Apostle Paul, gives us three guidelines for giving. For today, we will look at the first guideline. The intent, as always, is to reflect and learn. It is not to condemn. While you may experience conviction, if you experience condemnation/guilt, that's the work of the enemy, not the Holy Spirit. How can you know the difference? Satan loves to condemn, by giving you negative, condemning thoughts which have no "answer" or resolution. The Holy Spirit may convict, but He does so lovingly, with the intention of giving you the opportunity to repent and receive forgiveness, pointing you to the Word, which contains the "answer."
The first guideline for godly giving is that the giver should prayerfully decide the amount to give and the place to give it. The decision, according to II Corinthians 9:7, should me made in one's "heart." The Greek word for "heart" is kardia (kar-dee'-ah), and it means "heart, thoughts, feelings (mind)."
If you find that you quickly dig into your pocketbook or wallet while the offering prayer is being prayed, or you're busily writing your tithe check as the offering plate is being passed, you are missing out on the worship experience that giving is meant to be.
If you are not already doing so, I encourage you to take time each week, in advance of your giving, to pray. Praise God that He is Jehovah-Jireh (the God Who Provides), thank Him for His many blessings, ask Him how much He would like for you to give (above your tithe) and where you should give it (missions, building fund, special projects, etc.). He may or may not put a certain amount on your heart, but whether He does or not, the final decision must be yours.
Deuteronomy 16:17 [NLT]
"All must give as they are able, according to the blessings given to them by the LORD your God."
What this has to do with weight loss: Have you had people help you on your weight-loss journey? I know I have, and one of my greatest joys is when I can give back to someone who has helped me or even to a person who is just beginning their journey. While I am no expert in weight-loss circles, I can give that which I am able to give--my experience, my encouragement, my prayers, etc. God has blessed me, so I must "pay it forward." How can you give what you are able to give, today?
Confession:
I give thoughtfully, prayerfully, and with the intent to bless, as I am able.
Wednesday, December 2, 2009
Life Plan Devotion #137 [Sowing & Reaping, Day 2]
II Corinthians 9:6 "[Remember] this: he who sows sparingly and grudgingly will also reap sparingly and grudgingly, and he who sows generously [that blessings may come to someone] will also reap generously and with blessings" (Amplified).
Two types of sowers or givers are mentioned in II Corinthians 9:6, as well as the reaping that results for each. The Amplified Version says that "...he who sows sparingly and grudgingly will also reap sparingly and grudgingly, and he who sows generously [that blessings may come to someone] will also reap generously and with blessings."
The word "sparingly" is used only once in the early English versions of the Bible, and that is in II Corinthians 9:6. The Greek word for "sparingly" is pheidomenōs (fi-dom-en’-oce), and it means "stingily." The sower or giver who sows sparingly or stingily will reap the same harvest--a small one.
On the other hand, the sower or giver who sows "generously" or bountifully will reap the same harvest--a large one. Which type of sower/giver are you? In order to answer that question truthfully, you must take a good look at your heart, at the intent of your giving, as well as the amount you give and the harvest you have experienced.
Check yourself and your experience with the following verses from the Amplified Version of Proverbs 11:24-25. "There are those who [generously] scatter abroad, and yet increase more; there are those who withhold more than is fitting or what is justly due, but it results only in want. The liberal person shall be enriched, and he who waters shall himself be watered."
According to Proverbs 22:9, "A generous man will himself be blessed..." (NIV). Jesus said, "Give, and it will be given to you... With the measure you use, it will be measured to you" (Luke 6:38, NIV).
If your "harvest" is not what you want it to be, I encourage you to look at your "sowing." The principle is clear; we harvest in proportion to the amount of seed we sow. That's the way it works for the farmer, in the physical realm; that's the way it works for the believer, in the spiritual and physical realm.
What this has to do with weight loss: What do you sow into the lives of others on their weight-loss journey? There are many opportunities to sow. You can sow your time, your talents, and, yes, your treasure. Whether you're sowing time in prayer for those having surgery, giving a word of encouragement, sharing a protein sample, purchasing vitamins for someone in need, or even donating to a fund so someone without insurance can afford surgery, it will all come back to you. I've seen it over and over. It's a good feeling, too, knowing that you helped someone else. We are blessed to be a blessing.
Confession:
I sow seed generously, and I reap a bountiful harvest. I bless others, and I am blessed.
Two types of sowers or givers are mentioned in II Corinthians 9:6, as well as the reaping that results for each. The Amplified Version says that "...he who sows sparingly and grudgingly will also reap sparingly and grudgingly, and he who sows generously [that blessings may come to someone] will also reap generously and with blessings."
The word "sparingly" is used only once in the early English versions of the Bible, and that is in II Corinthians 9:6. The Greek word for "sparingly" is pheidomenōs (fi-dom-en’-oce), and it means "stingily." The sower or giver who sows sparingly or stingily will reap the same harvest--a small one.
On the other hand, the sower or giver who sows "generously" or bountifully will reap the same harvest--a large one. Which type of sower/giver are you? In order to answer that question truthfully, you must take a good look at your heart, at the intent of your giving, as well as the amount you give and the harvest you have experienced.
Check yourself and your experience with the following verses from the Amplified Version of Proverbs 11:24-25. "There are those who [generously] scatter abroad, and yet increase more; there are those who withhold more than is fitting or what is justly due, but it results only in want. The liberal person shall be enriched, and he who waters shall himself be watered."
According to Proverbs 22:9, "A generous man will himself be blessed..." (NIV). Jesus said, "Give, and it will be given to you... With the measure you use, it will be measured to you" (Luke 6:38, NIV).
If your "harvest" is not what you want it to be, I encourage you to look at your "sowing." The principle is clear; we harvest in proportion to the amount of seed we sow. That's the way it works for the farmer, in the physical realm; that's the way it works for the believer, in the spiritual and physical realm.
What this has to do with weight loss: What do you sow into the lives of others on their weight-loss journey? There are many opportunities to sow. You can sow your time, your talents, and, yes, your treasure. Whether you're sowing time in prayer for those having surgery, giving a word of encouragement, sharing a protein sample, purchasing vitamins for someone in need, or even donating to a fund so someone without insurance can afford surgery, it will all come back to you. I've seen it over and over. It's a good feeling, too, knowing that you helped someone else. We are blessed to be a blessing.
Confession:
I sow seed generously, and I reap a bountiful harvest. I bless others, and I am blessed.
Tuesday, December 1, 2009
Life Plan Devotion #136 [Sowing & Reaping, Day 1]
II Corinthians 9:6 "Remember this: Whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows generously will also reap generously" (NIV).
There is a Kingdom principle of prosperity that not every believer understands. It is a principle that was more easily understood by past generations. The Kingdom principle that we will consider for a few days (at least) is that of "sowing and reaping."
Why has the Kingdom principle of sowing and reaping been misunderstood? As always, the most important reason why a biblical principle is misunderstood is that the believer has not had that principle illumined by the Holy Spirit. It is of the utmost importance that you, dear reader, pray prior to reading God's Word and specifically ask the Holy Spirit to give you wisdom and understanding.
The second reason why this particular Kingdom principle, that of sowing and reaping, has been misunderstood is that, typically, we are far removed from the farming lifestyle. Just ask a child where bread comes from, or corn, and you'll probably get the answer, "the grocery store." We, who are older and somewhat wiser, know better. Perhaps we can learn more.
We are going to spend a few days looking at giving, how it's tied to sowing and reaping, and the benefits of giving. We will look also at the type of giver that God desires each of us to be. I hope you will follow this mini-series, because the rewards may just be life-changing.
Proverbs 1:5
"Let the wise listen and add to their learning, and let the discerning get guidance" (NIV).
What this has to do with weight loss: Those who are successful on their weight-loss journey are those who don't know it all, recognize that, and are willing to listen to those who know more, as well as take the time and effort to research and read. The truly smart person is the one who is willing to be vulnerable, to ask what may seem to some as a dumb question (even though the only dumb questions are the ones never asked). If you need guidance, ask for it. We are here to learn and then aid someone else.
Confession:
I learn something new every day, not only so that I can improve myself but so that I can help others on their journey.
There is a Kingdom principle of prosperity that not every believer understands. It is a principle that was more easily understood by past generations. The Kingdom principle that we will consider for a few days (at least) is that of "sowing and reaping."
Why has the Kingdom principle of sowing and reaping been misunderstood? As always, the most important reason why a biblical principle is misunderstood is that the believer has not had that principle illumined by the Holy Spirit. It is of the utmost importance that you, dear reader, pray prior to reading God's Word and specifically ask the Holy Spirit to give you wisdom and understanding.
The second reason why this particular Kingdom principle, that of sowing and reaping, has been misunderstood is that, typically, we are far removed from the farming lifestyle. Just ask a child where bread comes from, or corn, and you'll probably get the answer, "the grocery store." We, who are older and somewhat wiser, know better. Perhaps we can learn more.
We are going to spend a few days looking at giving, how it's tied to sowing and reaping, and the benefits of giving. We will look also at the type of giver that God desires each of us to be. I hope you will follow this mini-series, because the rewards may just be life-changing.
Proverbs 1:5
"Let the wise listen and add to their learning, and let the discerning get guidance" (NIV).
What this has to do with weight loss: Those who are successful on their weight-loss journey are those who don't know it all, recognize that, and are willing to listen to those who know more, as well as take the time and effort to research and read. The truly smart person is the one who is willing to be vulnerable, to ask what may seem to some as a dumb question (even though the only dumb questions are the ones never asked). If you need guidance, ask for it. We are here to learn and then aid someone else.
Confession:
I learn something new every day, not only so that I can improve myself but so that I can help others on their journey.
Monday, November 30, 2009
Life Plan Devotion #135 [Delayed obedience]
Haggai 1:5-6 "Now this is what the LORD Almighty says: 'Give careful thought to your ways. You have planted much, but have harvested little. You eat, but never have enough. You drink, but never have your fill. You put on clothes, but are not warm. You earn wages, only to put them in a purse with holes in it'" (NIV).
In my quiet time last week, in reading through the Bible chronologically, I came to the book of Haggai. It is a short book--only two chapters. Do not let that make you think that this book is unimportant. On the contrary, it is powerful and timely.
The children of Israel had returned from Babylonian captivity. They were to build a temple. No doubt, had you asked them what was going on, why the temple had not been built, they would have said something like, "It is not that we are saying 'No' to God; we are just saying 'Not yet.'" God had to get tough with them, to make it clear that delayed obedience is disobedience.
God says (and says repeatedly in chapters 1 and 2), "Give careful thought to your ways." Through this suggestion of self-examination, God was trying to get His people to understand that they would do well to think carefully about how they were living. By "giving careful thought," perhaps they would conclude that their ways were not serving them.
God points out that the people had planted much but harvested little. God points out that the people ate and drank but were never satisfied. God points out that the people put on clothes but could not get warm. Finally, God points out that the people were earning wages but losing their pay, because they were putting their money in a bag full of holes. The reader senses a holy pause and seems to hear God saying, "How's that working for you?"
Delayed obedience is disobedience and will usher in a dissatisfaction and endless cycle of lack. The lack may be physical, emotional, and/or spiritual. It is the experience of dis-ease.
The children of Israel delayed building the temple, but they lived in "paneled houses" (Haggai 1:4). How often do we say that we cannot afford to follow God's leading, whether it's to tithe or to give to a building project or some other kingdom work, yet we think nothing of spending ten times that amount on acquiring something for ourselves or our family.
This is not meant to bring you to condemnation, dear reader, but to encourage you to examine yourself. Perhaps there is an area where God has been dealing with you (whether it involves finances or something else), but you have been saying, "Not yet, God. Not yet." I plead with you to say "Yes" to God, for anything else will result in dissatisfaction in the temple of your heart.
Will there be a "cost" to saying "Yes" to God? Probably. Will it be easy to do what He has asked you to do? Probably not. The purpose of difficulties, of trials, is to strengthen one's faith and reliance on the Lord. It is not an excuse to say "Not yet," or, worse yet, to say "No" to God.
What this has to do with weight loss: When I talk to someone who is experiencing frustration in their weight-loss journey (and even when I talk to myself about the same thing), almost every time, when it comes down to it, the issue is delayed obedience to what one knows one should be doing. As in everything, delayed obedience is disobedience. One cannot expect to see the scale show a lower number if one is not willing to follow the diet and exercise plan one has decided on. The result is frustration and a waste of time. When the Lord gives you a nudge about the problem area (and He will), pay attention and make obedience a priority. You'll be glad you did.
Confession:
I examine my heart, to see if there are things that God has asked me to do, that I have left undone. I turn every "Not yet, God" into "Yes, Lord."
In my quiet time last week, in reading through the Bible chronologically, I came to the book of Haggai. It is a short book--only two chapters. Do not let that make you think that this book is unimportant. On the contrary, it is powerful and timely.
The children of Israel had returned from Babylonian captivity. They were to build a temple. No doubt, had you asked them what was going on, why the temple had not been built, they would have said something like, "It is not that we are saying 'No' to God; we are just saying 'Not yet.'" God had to get tough with them, to make it clear that delayed obedience is disobedience.
God says (and says repeatedly in chapters 1 and 2), "Give careful thought to your ways." Through this suggestion of self-examination, God was trying to get His people to understand that they would do well to think carefully about how they were living. By "giving careful thought," perhaps they would conclude that their ways were not serving them.
God points out that the people had planted much but harvested little. God points out that the people ate and drank but were never satisfied. God points out that the people put on clothes but could not get warm. Finally, God points out that the people were earning wages but losing their pay, because they were putting their money in a bag full of holes. The reader senses a holy pause and seems to hear God saying, "How's that working for you?"
Delayed obedience is disobedience and will usher in a dissatisfaction and endless cycle of lack. The lack may be physical, emotional, and/or spiritual. It is the experience of dis-ease.
The children of Israel delayed building the temple, but they lived in "paneled houses" (Haggai 1:4). How often do we say that we cannot afford to follow God's leading, whether it's to tithe or to give to a building project or some other kingdom work, yet we think nothing of spending ten times that amount on acquiring something for ourselves or our family.
This is not meant to bring you to condemnation, dear reader, but to encourage you to examine yourself. Perhaps there is an area where God has been dealing with you (whether it involves finances or something else), but you have been saying, "Not yet, God. Not yet." I plead with you to say "Yes" to God, for anything else will result in dissatisfaction in the temple of your heart.
Will there be a "cost" to saying "Yes" to God? Probably. Will it be easy to do what He has asked you to do? Probably not. The purpose of difficulties, of trials, is to strengthen one's faith and reliance on the Lord. It is not an excuse to say "Not yet," or, worse yet, to say "No" to God.
What this has to do with weight loss: When I talk to someone who is experiencing frustration in their weight-loss journey (and even when I talk to myself about the same thing), almost every time, when it comes down to it, the issue is delayed obedience to what one knows one should be doing. As in everything, delayed obedience is disobedience. One cannot expect to see the scale show a lower number if one is not willing to follow the diet and exercise plan one has decided on. The result is frustration and a waste of time. When the Lord gives you a nudge about the problem area (and He will), pay attention and make obedience a priority. You'll be glad you did.
Confession:
I examine my heart, to see if there are things that God has asked me to do, that I have left undone. I turn every "Not yet, God" into "Yes, Lord."
Friday, November 20, 2009
Life Plan Devotion #134 [All the way]
Mark 4:35-38 "On the same day, when evening had come, [Jesus] said to [His disciples], 'Let us cross over to the other side.' Now when they had left the multitude, they took Him along in the boat as He was. And other little boats were also with Him. And a great windstorm arose, and the waves beat into the boat, so that it was already filling. But He was in the stern, asleep on a pillow. And they awoke Him and said to Him, 'Teacher, do You not care that we are perishing?'" (NKJV)
When I read this in my quiet time, for the first time I noticed what Jesus said, in verse 35, "Let us cross over to the other side." It was as if God was saying to me, "I have plans for My people. My plan is not for them to fail halfway, or to stop halfway, or to die halfway." God has plans for you to make it all the way!
But while you're on your journey, someone else has the ability to project lies and thoughts that are exactly opposite of God's plans. He'll say things like, "You're going bankrupt. Your business is failing. Your family's going to get sick. You're going to die."
The devil is the one who comes up with thoughts that are the opposite of God's. The reason is he wants you to believe him, not God, and if you do, you'll have his ways instead of God's ways.
But Jesus said, "Let us cross over to the other side." That was the plan. They got in the boat, and Jesus fell asleep in the back. He was at peace, full of the assurance that His Father was with Him. He wasn't worried about a thing.
While they were crossing by boat, a storm broke. The winds blew, the waves rose, and the boat was soon full of water. The frantic disciples went to Jesus and woke Him up, crying, "Teacher, do You not care that we are perishing?"
That's what was said, but it was first a thought. Someone thought, "We're going to die!" And someone said (Thomas, my guess), "We're going to die!" Fear spreads. Satan whispered a thought of fear, and they believed the circumstances rather than God's Word, which contains God's Thoughts and plans, and makes God's way available.
Jesus, Word made flesh, had said, "You are going to the other side," but the circumstances said, "You're going to die here." Someone chose to listen to the suggestion of the circumstances, hide it in his heart, worry about it, and speak it from his mouth.
Waking Jesus was like the way we pray when we're afraid, "God, I'm sick. Don't You care?" Or, "Lord, don't You see that I'm going broke?" That's the sequence: negative circumstance => negative thought => negative emotion => negative speech.
It doesn't stop there, though. The result is that God's plan for your life, His intended miracle for you, gets reversed. Rather than taking God's Word and allowing it to make His way available, the decision is made by the doubter to reverse the intended order of things.
Does God ever plan for you to fail? No. Meditate on the fact that God intends for you to succeed, to live, to get to the other side! Get it down inside your heart so deep that when the waves come, you'll see that they are nothing. Remember this, God's voice may be softer than the breeze, but it's louder than the storm.
What this has to do with weight loss: If you are experiencing a "storm" on your weight-loss journey, pay attention to your thoughts about that negative circumstance. Turn those negative thoughts into positive, faith-filled ones, and you will experience more positive emotions and faith-filled speech, and it's your speech, coupled with faith in God's Word, that will carry you to the other side.
Confession:
God plans for me to make it all the way, and I intend to cooperate with His plans. Satan is a liar, and I refuse to listen to his lies. I refuse to think his lying thoughts. I refuse to speak his lying words. My thoughts, emotions, words, and deeds line up with God's Word, and I will see God's intended miracle plans for me come to pass!
When I read this in my quiet time, for the first time I noticed what Jesus said, in verse 35, "Let us cross over to the other side." It was as if God was saying to me, "I have plans for My people. My plan is not for them to fail halfway, or to stop halfway, or to die halfway." God has plans for you to make it all the way!
But while you're on your journey, someone else has the ability to project lies and thoughts that are exactly opposite of God's plans. He'll say things like, "You're going bankrupt. Your business is failing. Your family's going to get sick. You're going to die."
The devil is the one who comes up with thoughts that are the opposite of God's. The reason is he wants you to believe him, not God, and if you do, you'll have his ways instead of God's ways.
But Jesus said, "Let us cross over to the other side." That was the plan. They got in the boat, and Jesus fell asleep in the back. He was at peace, full of the assurance that His Father was with Him. He wasn't worried about a thing.
While they were crossing by boat, a storm broke. The winds blew, the waves rose, and the boat was soon full of water. The frantic disciples went to Jesus and woke Him up, crying, "Teacher, do You not care that we are perishing?"
That's what was said, but it was first a thought. Someone thought, "We're going to die!" And someone said (Thomas, my guess), "We're going to die!" Fear spreads. Satan whispered a thought of fear, and they believed the circumstances rather than God's Word, which contains God's Thoughts and plans, and makes God's way available.
Jesus, Word made flesh, had said, "You are going to the other side," but the circumstances said, "You're going to die here." Someone chose to listen to the suggestion of the circumstances, hide it in his heart, worry about it, and speak it from his mouth.
Waking Jesus was like the way we pray when we're afraid, "God, I'm sick. Don't You care?" Or, "Lord, don't You see that I'm going broke?" That's the sequence: negative circumstance => negative thought => negative emotion => negative speech.
It doesn't stop there, though. The result is that God's plan for your life, His intended miracle for you, gets reversed. Rather than taking God's Word and allowing it to make His way available, the decision is made by the doubter to reverse the intended order of things.
Does God ever plan for you to fail? No. Meditate on the fact that God intends for you to succeed, to live, to get to the other side! Get it down inside your heart so deep that when the waves come, you'll see that they are nothing. Remember this, God's voice may be softer than the breeze, but it's louder than the storm.
What this has to do with weight loss: If you are experiencing a "storm" on your weight-loss journey, pay attention to your thoughts about that negative circumstance. Turn those negative thoughts into positive, faith-filled ones, and you will experience more positive emotions and faith-filled speech, and it's your speech, coupled with faith in God's Word, that will carry you to the other side.
Confession:
God plans for me to make it all the way, and I intend to cooperate with His plans. Satan is a liar, and I refuse to listen to his lies. I refuse to think his lying thoughts. I refuse to speak his lying words. My thoughts, emotions, words, and deeds line up with God's Word, and I will see God's intended miracle plans for me come to pass!
Thursday, November 19, 2009
Life Plan Devotion #133 [What's God thinking/doing?]
Isaiah 55:8 "'For My thoughts are not your thoughts. Neither are your ways My ways,' says the LORD" (KJV).
Isaiah 55:8 is a verse that's often quoted when people don't understand why something happened the way it did, especially when the subject is sickness. I confess that I used to turn to that verse, too, when I just couldn't figure out why life didn't go as planned. One day, however, when I was reading the entire chapter of Isaiah 55, the Holy Spirit gave me a lesson on God's thoughts and ways.
The entire chapter of Isaiah 55 is written to the nonbeliever, the "thirsty" ones. It opens with an invitation to "Come" (verse 1), to "Listen" (verse 2), to "hear, that your soul may live" (verse 3). God says that if people will do those three things, "[He] will make an everlasting covenant with [them]" (verse 3).
Isaiah 55:6 has a more urgent tone to it, admonishing the unbeliever to "Seek the LORD while He may be found; call on Him while He is near." Then verse 7 begins the topic of God's thoughts and ways.
Isaiah 55:7 says, "Let the wicked forsake his way and the evil man his thoughts...," so when God says in verse 8, "For My thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways My ways," He is talking to the "wicked," the unbeliever, not the believer! God is saying that His thoughts are not the same as the thoughts of the wicked, and the ways of the wicked are not His ways.
We believers can know God's thoughts and God's ways, and we'd better know them, if we expect to experience an abundant life here on earth! Sure, God is Infinite God and we are finite man, but we have all the God Thoughts we need--called the God-breathed Word! God's ways are written there, too, and when we pay attention to them, we will know how the Kingdom of God works, and we'll experience that right here on earth!
What this has to do with weight loss: When you encounter a "question mark" on your weight-loss journey, the answer can be found either in God's Word or in prayer. Seek the answer, no matter how long it takes.
Confession;
Now I know that God's thoughts and ways are contained in His Word, and I'm excited to learn all that He has to say so that I realize the abundant life that Jesus came to bring to me. It is my desire that my thoughts and ways mirror God's thoughts and ways.
Isaiah 55:8 is a verse that's often quoted when people don't understand why something happened the way it did, especially when the subject is sickness. I confess that I used to turn to that verse, too, when I just couldn't figure out why life didn't go as planned. One day, however, when I was reading the entire chapter of Isaiah 55, the Holy Spirit gave me a lesson on God's thoughts and ways.
The entire chapter of Isaiah 55 is written to the nonbeliever, the "thirsty" ones. It opens with an invitation to "Come" (verse 1), to "Listen" (verse 2), to "hear, that your soul may live" (verse 3). God says that if people will do those three things, "[He] will make an everlasting covenant with [them]" (verse 3).
Isaiah 55:6 has a more urgent tone to it, admonishing the unbeliever to "Seek the LORD while He may be found; call on Him while He is near." Then verse 7 begins the topic of God's thoughts and ways.
Isaiah 55:7 says, "Let the wicked forsake his way and the evil man his thoughts...," so when God says in verse 8, "For My thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways My ways," He is talking to the "wicked," the unbeliever, not the believer! God is saying that His thoughts are not the same as the thoughts of the wicked, and the ways of the wicked are not His ways.
We believers can know God's thoughts and God's ways, and we'd better know them, if we expect to experience an abundant life here on earth! Sure, God is Infinite God and we are finite man, but we have all the God Thoughts we need--called the God-breathed Word! God's ways are written there, too, and when we pay attention to them, we will know how the Kingdom of God works, and we'll experience that right here on earth!
What this has to do with weight loss: When you encounter a "question mark" on your weight-loss journey, the answer can be found either in God's Word or in prayer. Seek the answer, no matter how long it takes.
Confession;
Now I know that God's thoughts and ways are contained in His Word, and I'm excited to learn all that He has to say so that I realize the abundant life that Jesus came to bring to me. It is my desire that my thoughts and ways mirror God's thoughts and ways.
Wednesday, November 18, 2009
Life Plan Devotion #132 [Forward-looking Faith]
Scripture woven within devotional.
We know that "without faith it is impossible to please God, because anyone who comes to him must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who earnestly seek him" (Hebrews 11:6, NIV). We have an excellent example of what it is like to live by faith, in Abraham, the patriarch.
Abraham was not perfect, though. He had times when his faith faltered. It was hard to wait 25 years for the fulfillment of God's promise, that he would be a father and the father of many nations. Yes, "Abram believed in the LORD; and He credited to him as righteousness" (Genesis 15:6, NIV). The Amplified Version for Genesis 15:6 says, "He [Abram] believed in (trusted in, relied on, remained steadfast to) the Lord, and He counted it to him as righteousness (right standing with God)."
This endorsement of Abraham is reiterated in the New Testament. "He believed God, and it was credited to him as righteousness" (Galatians 3:6, NIV). Consider the Amplified Version of Galatians 3:6, "Abraham believed in and adhered to and trusted in and relied on God, and it was reckoned and placed to his account and credited as righteousness (as conformity to the divine will in purpose, thought, and action)."
Believing God is so much more than saying, "I believe in God." It's even more than saying, "I believe God." Believing God means trusting Him, relying on Him, remaining steadfast in Him (no matter what's going on). Believing God is sticking to Him like glue!
Abraham had forward-looking faith. He could envision the promises of God long before he saw them come to pass. Abraham had God Thoughts and God Ways. I know this because of what it says about God in Romans 4:17, "...God who gives life to the dead and calls those things that are not as though they were" (NIV).
What this has to do with weight loss: It's hard to see yourself at goal weight, to envision that until it's so strong a picture that you can almost feel it, but that's what we should do. If God "calls those things that are not as though they were," we can do that too. Call yourself whole, envision yourself whole, and allow it to come to pass. It's not something to fear.
Confession:
God is pleased when I envision myself as whole (nothing missing, nothing broken), because that is how He sees me. God calls me blessed, and I call myself "Blessed of the Lord!"
We know that "without faith it is impossible to please God, because anyone who comes to him must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who earnestly seek him" (Hebrews 11:6, NIV). We have an excellent example of what it is like to live by faith, in Abraham, the patriarch.
Abraham was not perfect, though. He had times when his faith faltered. It was hard to wait 25 years for the fulfillment of God's promise, that he would be a father and the father of many nations. Yes, "Abram believed in the LORD; and He credited to him as righteousness" (Genesis 15:6, NIV). The Amplified Version for Genesis 15:6 says, "He [Abram] believed in (trusted in, relied on, remained steadfast to) the Lord, and He counted it to him as righteousness (right standing with God)."
This endorsement of Abraham is reiterated in the New Testament. "He believed God, and it was credited to him as righteousness" (Galatians 3:6, NIV). Consider the Amplified Version of Galatians 3:6, "Abraham believed in and adhered to and trusted in and relied on God, and it was reckoned and placed to his account and credited as righteousness (as conformity to the divine will in purpose, thought, and action)."
Believing God is so much more than saying, "I believe in God." It's even more than saying, "I believe God." Believing God means trusting Him, relying on Him, remaining steadfast in Him (no matter what's going on). Believing God is sticking to Him like glue!
Abraham had forward-looking faith. He could envision the promises of God long before he saw them come to pass. Abraham had God Thoughts and God Ways. I know this because of what it says about God in Romans 4:17, "...God who gives life to the dead and calls those things that are not as though they were" (NIV).
What this has to do with weight loss: It's hard to see yourself at goal weight, to envision that until it's so strong a picture that you can almost feel it, but that's what we should do. If God "calls those things that are not as though they were," we can do that too. Call yourself whole, envision yourself whole, and allow it to come to pass. It's not something to fear.
Confession:
God is pleased when I envision myself as whole (nothing missing, nothing broken), because that is how He sees me. God calls me blessed, and I call myself "Blessed of the Lord!"
Tuesday, November 17, 2009
Life Plan Devotion #131 [Focus]
Matthew 14:25, 28-30 "During the fourth watch of the night Jesus went out to them, walking on the lake... 'Lord, if it's you,' Peter replied, 'tell me to come to you on the water.' 'Come,' He said. Then Peter got down out of the boat, walked on the water and came toward Jesus. But when he saw the wind, he was afraid and, beginning to sink, cried out, 'Lord, save me!'" (NIV)
Peter stepped out of the boat and walked on the water, but then Peter made a mistake. He was hearing, believing, and acting right, but then "he saw the wind boisterous." He took his eyes off Jesus and started watching the strong wind blowing on the stormy sea.
At that moment, fear entered in, faith stopped, and Peter started to sink. Maybe he was thinking, "I can't walk on water when the wind is blowing, especially when the waves are big!" He must have forgotten who had made it possible for him to walk on the water when it had been smooth.
When we believe God, we need to hear God's Word, believe God's Word, say God's Word, and act on God's Word. We also need to keep our eyes off the problem and on Jesus. No matter what stormy circumstances we face, Jesus is the answer to our every need.
What this has to do with weight loss: The scale is not moving, and it is so frustrating. It is a mistake to focus on the scale, weighing every day, determining whether it's a "good" day or a "bad" day according to the number on a scale. Whatever you focus on gets bigger. May it be Jesus, not the scale or current problem.
Confession:
I keep my eyes on Jesus, not looking at the circumstances or impossibilities that surround me. I choose to believe His Word, and my faith holds me up.
Peter stepped out of the boat and walked on the water, but then Peter made a mistake. He was hearing, believing, and acting right, but then "he saw the wind boisterous." He took his eyes off Jesus and started watching the strong wind blowing on the stormy sea.
At that moment, fear entered in, faith stopped, and Peter started to sink. Maybe he was thinking, "I can't walk on water when the wind is blowing, especially when the waves are big!" He must have forgotten who had made it possible for him to walk on the water when it had been smooth.
When we believe God, we need to hear God's Word, believe God's Word, say God's Word, and act on God's Word. We also need to keep our eyes off the problem and on Jesus. No matter what stormy circumstances we face, Jesus is the answer to our every need.
What this has to do with weight loss: The scale is not moving, and it is so frustrating. It is a mistake to focus on the scale, weighing every day, determining whether it's a "good" day or a "bad" day according to the number on a scale. Whatever you focus on gets bigger. May it be Jesus, not the scale or current problem.
Confession:
I keep my eyes on Jesus, not looking at the circumstances or impossibilities that surround me. I choose to believe His Word, and my faith holds me up.
Monday, November 16, 2009
Life Plan Devotion #130 [Can you believe it?]
Mark 9:23 "Jesus said unto him, 'If you can believe, all things are possible to him who believes'" (NKJV).
Jesus made a powerful statement to the man who brought his son to Him for deliverance. He said, "All things are possible to him who believes."
The reason Jesus could say that is shown in Hebrews 1:1-2: "God, who at various times and in various ways spoke in time past to the fathers by the prophets, has in these last days spoken in us by His Son, whom He has appointed heir of all things..." (NKJV). How many is "all"? All means all! Jesus has been made heir of all things.
Then Romans 8:16-17 says, "The Spirit Himself bears witness with our spirit that we are children of God, and if children, then heirs--heirs of God and joint heirs with Christ..." (NKJV). If you are a joint heir with someone, whatever he inherits also belongs to you. What did Jesus inherit? God appointed Him heir of all things.
Jesus said in Mark 10:27 (NKJV), "...with God all things are possible" and "all things are possible to him who believes" (Mark 9:23, NKJV). All things are possible to the person who believes because we believers are joint heirs with Jesus, the Heir of all things.
The believer must learn to believe God and tap his/her faith into God's grace and God's ability. If we in the true Church Body would just get hold of that, it would absolutely change our lives! All things are possible to us, when we believe.
What this has to do with weight loss: One of the hardest parts of the weight-loss journey, for most people, is to actually believe that one will get to and stay at one's goal weight. Allow God to help you paint a picture in your mind of what you'll look like at goal weight, and think of it often. Your imagination is God given. Use it for good, and that includes for your good. When you believe it, nothing is impossible.
Watch Leon Jackson, from Britain, sing When You Believe. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wMO4-HzMqRg
Confession:
With God, all things are possible. He is greater than any sickness, any disease, any difficulty, any lack. He is greater than all, and He lives in me--so all things are possible to me because I believe!
Jesus made a powerful statement to the man who brought his son to Him for deliverance. He said, "All things are possible to him who believes."
The reason Jesus could say that is shown in Hebrews 1:1-2: "God, who at various times and in various ways spoke in time past to the fathers by the prophets, has in these last days spoken in us by His Son, whom He has appointed heir of all things..." (NKJV). How many is "all"? All means all! Jesus has been made heir of all things.
Then Romans 8:16-17 says, "The Spirit Himself bears witness with our spirit that we are children of God, and if children, then heirs--heirs of God and joint heirs with Christ..." (NKJV). If you are a joint heir with someone, whatever he inherits also belongs to you. What did Jesus inherit? God appointed Him heir of all things.
Jesus said in Mark 10:27 (NKJV), "...with God all things are possible" and "all things are possible to him who believes" (Mark 9:23, NKJV). All things are possible to the person who believes because we believers are joint heirs with Jesus, the Heir of all things.
The believer must learn to believe God and tap his/her faith into God's grace and God's ability. If we in the true Church Body would just get hold of that, it would absolutely change our lives! All things are possible to us, when we believe.
What this has to do with weight loss: One of the hardest parts of the weight-loss journey, for most people, is to actually believe that one will get to and stay at one's goal weight. Allow God to help you paint a picture in your mind of what you'll look like at goal weight, and think of it often. Your imagination is God given. Use it for good, and that includes for your good. When you believe it, nothing is impossible.
Watch Leon Jackson, from Britain, sing When You Believe. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wMO4-HzMqRg
Confession:
With God, all things are possible. He is greater than any sickness, any disease, any difficulty, any lack. He is greater than all, and He lives in me--so all things are possible to me because I believe!
Friday, November 13, 2009
Life Plan Devotion #129 [Ways to prosper]
III John 2 "Beloved, I pray that you may prosper in every way and [that your body] may keep well, even as [I know] your soul keeps well and prospers" (Amplified).
This God-breathed verse is one of my favorite verses, because everything that God wants for me is written in that verse. The apostle John is writing to Gaius, no doubt a fellow servant in the work of the Lord, but, as we know, every word in God's Word applies to each of us today.
The Greek word for "prosper" in III John verse 2 means: "help on the road; to succeed in reaching; to succeed in business affairs." The Greek word for "health" in III John verse 2 means: "to have sound health; to be well in body; to be uncorrupt (true in doctrine); to be safe and sound; to be whole." The Greek word for "prospers" is the same as "prosper," so the meaning is the same for this phrase that speaks of soul prosperity.
In this one verse, we have God's intent for us, that there be provision for our journey. God wants each of us to live a life in which we are happy, healthy, and whole. The provision is there, in God's Word. All we have to do is realize it, believe it, and walk in it.
God intends for each of us to prosper or succeed 1) financially. He wants us to "prosper in every way." That means that whatever business we have a hand in should prosper. That means that our bills should get paid. That means we should have plenty left over, to care for others and carry on the work of the kingdom right here on earth. Of course, giving God the tithe from the top and first is important and sets God's principle of financial prosperity into action.
While it is true that "money can't buy happiness," there is nothing "happy" about being poor! God does not have a poverty mentality. If He did, He never would have created gold, silver, precious gems. In Genesis 13:2, we are told that Abraham, the father of our faith, "was rich in cattle, in silver and in gold." Financial prosperity is part of the covenant. God wants us to be happy, and He knows that one cannot be truly happy if one's needs or one's family's needs are not being met.
God intends for us to prosper or succeed 2) physically. He wants each of us to be healthy in our body. If we are ill in any measure, whether it's that we are too tired or we are too sick, we cannot do the work God intends for us to do. God desires that we be effective workers for Him, so He is more than willing to heal us. Just as in financial prosperity, God has put principles of health and healing in His Word. If God's people could grasp the revelation of God's Word on health and healing, the world would be turned upside down by people on fire for God, who have the stamina to work tirelessly for the Kingdom.
God intends for us to prosper or succeed 3) spiritually. He wants each of us to be whole, to be "true in doctrine," to be eternally secure. Can a person be prosperous financially and physically, yet not be a Christian? Of course, but Mark 8:36 says it all, "What good is it for a man to gain the whole world, yet forfeit his soul?" God desires that we be secure in every way, and that security begins at the foot of the Cross. God has put principles of spiritual success and prosperity in His Word. Following those principles is key to living a victorious Christian life.
God's intent is for each of His children to have "help on the road." We are not left on our own, to slave and beg for our daily bread, to search for a cure for what ails us, or to find someone or something to believe in. God can be Jehovah-Jireh, our Provider, if we will let Him, if we will follow the principles in His Word. God can be Jehovah-Rapha, our Healer, if we will let Him, if we will follow the principles in His Word. God can be Jehovah-Rohi, our Shepherd and Jehovah-Shalom, our Peace, if we will let Him, if we will follow the principles in His Word.
What this has to do with weight loss: God's intent for us is that there be provision for our journey, even our weight-loss journey. That doesn't mean it will be an easy one. However, if we will remember God's intention and make sure our intention is to do our part, to cooperate with His guidance, our weight-loss journey will be successful/prosperous.
Confession:
I am God's "Beloved," and He delights in my prosperity. God delights in my happiness, healthfulness, and wholeness. I partner with God by following His principles, and I marvel at how He provides for my journey!
This God-breathed verse is one of my favorite verses, because everything that God wants for me is written in that verse. The apostle John is writing to Gaius, no doubt a fellow servant in the work of the Lord, but, as we know, every word in God's Word applies to each of us today.
The Greek word for "prosper" in III John verse 2 means: "help on the road; to succeed in reaching; to succeed in business affairs." The Greek word for "health" in III John verse 2 means: "to have sound health; to be well in body; to be uncorrupt (true in doctrine); to be safe and sound; to be whole." The Greek word for "prospers" is the same as "prosper," so the meaning is the same for this phrase that speaks of soul prosperity.
In this one verse, we have God's intent for us, that there be provision for our journey. God wants each of us to live a life in which we are happy, healthy, and whole. The provision is there, in God's Word. All we have to do is realize it, believe it, and walk in it.
God intends for each of us to prosper or succeed 1) financially. He wants us to "prosper in every way." That means that whatever business we have a hand in should prosper. That means that our bills should get paid. That means we should have plenty left over, to care for others and carry on the work of the kingdom right here on earth. Of course, giving God the tithe from the top and first is important and sets God's principle of financial prosperity into action.
While it is true that "money can't buy happiness," there is nothing "happy" about being poor! God does not have a poverty mentality. If He did, He never would have created gold, silver, precious gems. In Genesis 13:2, we are told that Abraham, the father of our faith, "was rich in cattle, in silver and in gold." Financial prosperity is part of the covenant. God wants us to be happy, and He knows that one cannot be truly happy if one's needs or one's family's needs are not being met.
God intends for us to prosper or succeed 2) physically. He wants each of us to be healthy in our body. If we are ill in any measure, whether it's that we are too tired or we are too sick, we cannot do the work God intends for us to do. God desires that we be effective workers for Him, so He is more than willing to heal us. Just as in financial prosperity, God has put principles of health and healing in His Word. If God's people could grasp the revelation of God's Word on health and healing, the world would be turned upside down by people on fire for God, who have the stamina to work tirelessly for the Kingdom.
God intends for us to prosper or succeed 3) spiritually. He wants each of us to be whole, to be "true in doctrine," to be eternally secure. Can a person be prosperous financially and physically, yet not be a Christian? Of course, but Mark 8:36 says it all, "What good is it for a man to gain the whole world, yet forfeit his soul?" God desires that we be secure in every way, and that security begins at the foot of the Cross. God has put principles of spiritual success and prosperity in His Word. Following those principles is key to living a victorious Christian life.
God's intent is for each of His children to have "help on the road." We are not left on our own, to slave and beg for our daily bread, to search for a cure for what ails us, or to find someone or something to believe in. God can be Jehovah-Jireh, our Provider, if we will let Him, if we will follow the principles in His Word. God can be Jehovah-Rapha, our Healer, if we will let Him, if we will follow the principles in His Word. God can be Jehovah-Rohi, our Shepherd and Jehovah-Shalom, our Peace, if we will let Him, if we will follow the principles in His Word.
What this has to do with weight loss: God's intent for us is that there be provision for our journey, even our weight-loss journey. That doesn't mean it will be an easy one. However, if we will remember God's intention and make sure our intention is to do our part, to cooperate with His guidance, our weight-loss journey will be successful/prosperous.
Confession:
I am God's "Beloved," and He delights in my prosperity. God delights in my happiness, healthfulness, and wholeness. I partner with God by following His principles, and I marvel at how He provides for my journey!
Thursday, November 12, 2009
Life Plan Devotion #128 [Friends make a difference]
Psalm 1:1-3 "Blessed is the man who does not walk in the counsel of the wicked or stand in the way of sinners or sit in the seat of mockers. But his delight is in the law of the LORD, and on His law he meditates day and night. He is like a tree planted by streams of water, which yields its fruit in season and whose leaf does not wither. Whatever he does prospers" (NIV).
Verse 3 of Psalm 1:1-3 should look familiar. It is rather like verse 8 of Jeremiah 17:7-8, which we looked at in our previous devotion. These verses, that open the Book of Psalms, describe the "blessed" man in terms of what he does not do, what he does, and what the result is if he follows through (lining up himself/herself with the Word of God).
Let's look at what a blessed man/woman does not do, as expressed in the Amplified Version. "Blessed (Happy, fortunate, prosperous, and enviable) is the man who walks and lives not in the counsel of the ungodly [following their advice, their plans and purposes], nor stands [submissive and inactive] in the path where sinners walk, nor sits down [to relax and rest] where the scornful [and the mockers] gather" (Psalm 1:1, Amplified). It matters with whom you associate (in strong friendship) and "follow" (in character and manner of living).
If you follow the "do" parts of the Bible, you won't even have to be concerned about the "don't" parts. "But his delight and desire are in the law of the Lord, and on His law (the precepts, the instructions, the teachings of God) he habitually meditates (ponders and studies) by day and by night" (Psalm 1:2, Amplified). Does that sound familiar?
We've already seen that to be "blessed" means to be "happy, fortunate, prosperous, and enviable," and that is reinforced by the result of following the "don't part" (v.1) and the "do part" (v. 2). "And he shall be like a tree firmly planted [and tended] by the streams of water, ready to bring forth its fruit in its season; its leaf also shall not fade or wither; and everything he does shall prosper [and come to maturity]" (Psalm 1:3, Amplified).
If you desire to prosper in all you do, be a "firmly planted" tree, allow the Holy Spirit and the Word to "tend" you, and watch your life bear "fruit in its season" (i.e., when the time is right).
What this has to do with weight loss: Sometimes, after weight-loss surgery, you cannot associate with the same people you did before. Sometimes your surgery results change the way "friends" see you and react to you. Your surgery will change you, definitely, hopefully all for the better. Relationships may go through a time of adjustment. That's all right. Work on them. If, however, there is a friend who is not supportive, who, rather, tries to sabotage your weight-loss journey, be honest about what you need from him/her, and if he/she cannot or will not change, you may have to let go of that friendship. I know these issues are tough, but your True Friend, Jesus, will help you through them, if you let Him.
Confession:
I'm careful with whom I associate, choosing to spend my time learning from God's Word, and the result is that I am blessed and prosperous in all that I do.
Verse 3 of Psalm 1:1-3 should look familiar. It is rather like verse 8 of Jeremiah 17:7-8, which we looked at in our previous devotion. These verses, that open the Book of Psalms, describe the "blessed" man in terms of what he does not do, what he does, and what the result is if he follows through (lining up himself/herself with the Word of God).
Let's look at what a blessed man/woman does not do, as expressed in the Amplified Version. "Blessed (Happy, fortunate, prosperous, and enviable) is the man who walks and lives not in the counsel of the ungodly [following their advice, their plans and purposes], nor stands [submissive and inactive] in the path where sinners walk, nor sits down [to relax and rest] where the scornful [and the mockers] gather" (Psalm 1:1, Amplified). It matters with whom you associate (in strong friendship) and "follow" (in character and manner of living).
If you follow the "do" parts of the Bible, you won't even have to be concerned about the "don't" parts. "But his delight and desire are in the law of the Lord, and on His law (the precepts, the instructions, the teachings of God) he habitually meditates (ponders and studies) by day and by night" (Psalm 1:2, Amplified). Does that sound familiar?
We've already seen that to be "blessed" means to be "happy, fortunate, prosperous, and enviable," and that is reinforced by the result of following the "don't part" (v.1) and the "do part" (v. 2). "And he shall be like a tree firmly planted [and tended] by the streams of water, ready to bring forth its fruit in its season; its leaf also shall not fade or wither; and everything he does shall prosper [and come to maturity]" (Psalm 1:3, Amplified).
If you desire to prosper in all you do, be a "firmly planted" tree, allow the Holy Spirit and the Word to "tend" you, and watch your life bear "fruit in its season" (i.e., when the time is right).
What this has to do with weight loss: Sometimes, after weight-loss surgery, you cannot associate with the same people you did before. Sometimes your surgery results change the way "friends" see you and react to you. Your surgery will change you, definitely, hopefully all for the better. Relationships may go through a time of adjustment. That's all right. Work on them. If, however, there is a friend who is not supportive, who, rather, tries to sabotage your weight-loss journey, be honest about what you need from him/her, and if he/she cannot or will not change, you may have to let go of that friendship. I know these issues are tough, but your True Friend, Jesus, will help you through them, if you let Him.
Confession:
I'm careful with whom I associate, choosing to spend my time learning from God's Word, and the result is that I am blessed and prosperous in all that I do.
Wednesday, November 11, 2009
Life Plan Devotion #127 [Deep roots]
Jeremiah 17:7-8 "Blessed are those who trust in the LORD and have made the LORD their hope and confidence. They are like trees planted along a riverbank, with roots that reach deep into the water. Such trees are not bothered by the heat or worried by long months of drought. Their leaves stay green, and they never stop producing fruit" (NLT).
In the two verses prior to Jeremiah 17:7-8, God says that if a person trusts in man rather than God, he is cursed. Instead of prospering, that man will wither away like a desert bush. That man will be unfruitful, sooner or later.
A righteous person is blessed because his/her "confidence" and "trust" is in God, rather than self, another person, or even a thing (like one's job). A righteous person will flourish like a tree planted by the water, with roots that go deep, directly into the water.
The picture seems perfect, doesn't it. It's not, of course, and those difficulties are represented figuratively by "heat" and "drought." Even though "heat" and "drought" circumstances may come, the righteous person will not react with worry or fear.
Because the righteous person refuses to worry or be afraid, God promises that he/she will continue to prosper. Even when it seems to go against the circumstances (heat, drought), the righteous person's "leaves say green, and they never stop producing fruit."
When circumstances come, that present the opportunity to either trust God or worry, which do you tend to do? God blesses the one who trusts in Him, for God has proven Himself trustworthy.
Righteous one, when you are tempted to give in to fear or worry, think back to the times that God "came through for you," and praise Him that He will do it again! With every praise, with every determined thought of "I trust You," your "roots" go deeper and you will "produce fruit," even when you do not see a drop of rain!
What this has to do with weight loss: I have been amazed at the stories I've read, of those who have suffered post-weight-loss surgery complications. The ones whom I most admire are resilient and attribute their resiliency to a deep, abiding faith and trust in the Lord. They have learned that their "heat" and "drought" difficulties have an expiration date, and they patiently wait the Lord's move in that regard. If you are that person, dear reader, please know that I'm praying for you. If you are struggling, unable to trust in the Lord, please know that I'm praying for you, too, that you will come to know that He is worthy of your trust.
Confession:
No matter the circumstances that come my way, I will trust and put my confidence in God, for He has proven Himself trustworthy. Because I trust in the Lord, I am blessed.
In the two verses prior to Jeremiah 17:7-8, God says that if a person trusts in man rather than God, he is cursed. Instead of prospering, that man will wither away like a desert bush. That man will be unfruitful, sooner or later.
A righteous person is blessed because his/her "confidence" and "trust" is in God, rather than self, another person, or even a thing (like one's job). A righteous person will flourish like a tree planted by the water, with roots that go deep, directly into the water.
The picture seems perfect, doesn't it. It's not, of course, and those difficulties are represented figuratively by "heat" and "drought." Even though "heat" and "drought" circumstances may come, the righteous person will not react with worry or fear.
Because the righteous person refuses to worry or be afraid, God promises that he/she will continue to prosper. Even when it seems to go against the circumstances (heat, drought), the righteous person's "leaves say green, and they never stop producing fruit."
When circumstances come, that present the opportunity to either trust God or worry, which do you tend to do? God blesses the one who trusts in Him, for God has proven Himself trustworthy.
Righteous one, when you are tempted to give in to fear or worry, think back to the times that God "came through for you," and praise Him that He will do it again! With every praise, with every determined thought of "I trust You," your "roots" go deeper and you will "produce fruit," even when you do not see a drop of rain!
What this has to do with weight loss: I have been amazed at the stories I've read, of those who have suffered post-weight-loss surgery complications. The ones whom I most admire are resilient and attribute their resiliency to a deep, abiding faith and trust in the Lord. They have learned that their "heat" and "drought" difficulties have an expiration date, and they patiently wait the Lord's move in that regard. If you are that person, dear reader, please know that I'm praying for you. If you are struggling, unable to trust in the Lord, please know that I'm praying for you, too, that you will come to know that He is worthy of your trust.
Confession:
No matter the circumstances that come my way, I will trust and put my confidence in God, for He has proven Himself trustworthy. Because I trust in the Lord, I am blessed.
Tuesday, November 10, 2009
Life Plan Devotion #126 [Where is the wealth?]
Proverbs 13:22 "A good man leaveth an inheritance to his children's children: and the wealth of the sinner is laid up for the just" (KJV).
I don't know about you, but the first part of Proverbs 13:22, that a good man leaves an inheritance to his grandchildren, gave me pause. My husband and I are far from being able to do that. We can leave the kind of inheritance noted in the Amplified version, that of "moral stability and goodness," but we long to see the fulfillment of Proverbs 13:22a, and, with wise and righteous living, we will!
When I first read this verse, I wondered why the writer linked the leaving of an inheritance to the wealth of the sinner. Today, I believe the Holy Spirit gave me some illumination.
Typically, an inheritance is noted in a will. However, just because your name is included in a will does not mean much. First, you have to have that information, to know you're mentioned in the will. Second, you have to "make a demand" or go through some other legal process, to gain access to the inheritance that is yours.
The "just" (or the righteous) have a spiritual inheritance, as heirs of God and joint-heirs with Christ (Romans 8:17). Because of that fact, we righteous have all the rights and promises that go along with being a child of God. However, it does little good, unless we know about them and unless we "make a demand" on them.
According to Proverbs 13:22b, there is wealth (chayil): “goods, might, power, riches, strength, and substance” that is laid up (tsâphan): “hidden (by being covered over), reserved, (kept) secret” for the just (tsaddîyq): "lawful, righteous, just." That wealth is hidden, kept secret by sinners (the unjust, unlawful, unrighteous).
Satan helps his followers to prosper, but it is "ill-gotten gain." From the beginning of creation, everything was made for the subsistence, consumption, enjoyment, fulfillment, and use of God's people. The Garden was perfect; there was no lack. If you look at the Old Testament patriarchs, they were "the richest men in town." They were righteous (flawed, but righteous), and God richly blessed them.
God's Word has not changed; God has not changed. If He richly blessed "the just" over 2,000 years ago, why would His intention have changed? It hasn't changed, because God is still the same God, with the same Kingdom principles. It is we who have allowed "tradition" to dictate that a Christian should be poor or live modestly, or others will think that "the love of money," the "root of all evil," is at work.
Why do we allow the enemy to make us feel guilty, when it comes to money? Sure, we will have problems if we're greedy, but if we are "about the Father's business," we have every right to "make a demand" on the promise of Proverbs 13:22.
How long are we going to let Satan continue to steal from the righteous and give to the unrighteous? How long are you going to sit idly by, living paycheck to paycheck, wishing you could give to the work of the Kingdom much more than just the tithe? If "the wealth of the sinner is laid up for the just" (remember, God said it) then all you have to do is believe Him and receive it. Don't doubt God or His Word. He will be delighted to have you pray in faith, believing, *"ASK"ing for the wealth that rightly belongs to you, quoting Proverbs 13:22, and rejoicing that the wealth that belongs to you is on its way!
*See Life Plan Devotions #106-118
What this has to do with weight loss: The weight-loss journey, particularly that which involves weight-loss surgery, is not cheap. Even if one has insurance coverage, there are many expenses that are not included, especially after surgery. Too often, we fail to "count the cost" of maintaining a healthy post-op lifestyle. There are vitamins and supplements, protein supplementation, quality food to prepare (rather than fast food), and yearly (at minimum) blood tests, and those costs add up and are ongoing. It is a commitment to and investment in one's good health. How will you pay for it? If you have concerns about that, my advice to you is twofold: 1) Be a tither and giver, so you can claim Malachi 3:10 and Philippians 4:19, and 2) Ask God for help (Matthew 7:7). He will help you and give you ideas as to how you can plan and pay for that which you need, to have a fit body/temple for Him.
Confession:
I am clothed in the righteousness of Christ, so I confidently ask that "the wealth of the sinner" that is "laid up" for me, a "just" person, be uncovered and brought to me, so I can leave an inheritance for my grandchildren and do God's Work, in fulfillment of Proverbs 13:22.
I don't know about you, but the first part of Proverbs 13:22, that a good man leaves an inheritance to his grandchildren, gave me pause. My husband and I are far from being able to do that. We can leave the kind of inheritance noted in the Amplified version, that of "moral stability and goodness," but we long to see the fulfillment of Proverbs 13:22a, and, with wise and righteous living, we will!
When I first read this verse, I wondered why the writer linked the leaving of an inheritance to the wealth of the sinner. Today, I believe the Holy Spirit gave me some illumination.
Typically, an inheritance is noted in a will. However, just because your name is included in a will does not mean much. First, you have to have that information, to know you're mentioned in the will. Second, you have to "make a demand" or go through some other legal process, to gain access to the inheritance that is yours.
The "just" (or the righteous) have a spiritual inheritance, as heirs of God and joint-heirs with Christ (Romans 8:17). Because of that fact, we righteous have all the rights and promises that go along with being a child of God. However, it does little good, unless we know about them and unless we "make a demand" on them.
According to Proverbs 13:22b, there is wealth (chayil): “goods, might, power, riches, strength, and substance” that is laid up (tsâphan): “hidden (by being covered over), reserved, (kept) secret” for the just (tsaddîyq): "lawful, righteous, just." That wealth is hidden, kept secret by sinners (the unjust, unlawful, unrighteous).
Satan helps his followers to prosper, but it is "ill-gotten gain." From the beginning of creation, everything was made for the subsistence, consumption, enjoyment, fulfillment, and use of God's people. The Garden was perfect; there was no lack. If you look at the Old Testament patriarchs, they were "the richest men in town." They were righteous (flawed, but righteous), and God richly blessed them.
God's Word has not changed; God has not changed. If He richly blessed "the just" over 2,000 years ago, why would His intention have changed? It hasn't changed, because God is still the same God, with the same Kingdom principles. It is we who have allowed "tradition" to dictate that a Christian should be poor or live modestly, or others will think that "the love of money," the "root of all evil," is at work.
Why do we allow the enemy to make us feel guilty, when it comes to money? Sure, we will have problems if we're greedy, but if we are "about the Father's business," we have every right to "make a demand" on the promise of Proverbs 13:22.
How long are we going to let Satan continue to steal from the righteous and give to the unrighteous? How long are you going to sit idly by, living paycheck to paycheck, wishing you could give to the work of the Kingdom much more than just the tithe? If "the wealth of the sinner is laid up for the just" (remember, God said it) then all you have to do is believe Him and receive it. Don't doubt God or His Word. He will be delighted to have you pray in faith, believing, *"ASK"ing for the wealth that rightly belongs to you, quoting Proverbs 13:22, and rejoicing that the wealth that belongs to you is on its way!
*See Life Plan Devotions #106-118
What this has to do with weight loss: The weight-loss journey, particularly that which involves weight-loss surgery, is not cheap. Even if one has insurance coverage, there are many expenses that are not included, especially after surgery. Too often, we fail to "count the cost" of maintaining a healthy post-op lifestyle. There are vitamins and supplements, protein supplementation, quality food to prepare (rather than fast food), and yearly (at minimum) blood tests, and those costs add up and are ongoing. It is a commitment to and investment in one's good health. How will you pay for it? If you have concerns about that, my advice to you is twofold: 1) Be a tither and giver, so you can claim Malachi 3:10 and Philippians 4:19, and 2) Ask God for help (Matthew 7:7). He will help you and give you ideas as to how you can plan and pay for that which you need, to have a fit body/temple for Him.
Confession:
I am clothed in the righteousness of Christ, so I confidently ask that "the wealth of the sinner" that is "laid up" for me, a "just" person, be uncovered and brought to me, so I can leave an inheritance for my grandchildren and do God's Work, in fulfillment of Proverbs 13:22.
Monday, November 9, 2009
Life Plan Devotion #125 [Prosperity]
Psalm 35:27 [Amplified] "Let those who favor my righteous cause and have pleasure in my uprightness shout for joy and be glad and say continually, Let the Lord be magnified, who takes pleasure in the prosperity of His servant."
If you have ever doubted whether or not God cares about your circumstances, whatever they may be, I urge you to memorize this verse. Psalm 35:27 is a wonderful promise, and it assures God's "servant" that if he/she goes "all out" for Him, He will give him/her reason to celebrate!
Something has happened, in Psalm 35:27, between the "my part" and the celebration, and that's "God's part." However, "God's part" is hinted at in the very words of the celebrant, who shouts for joy, is glad, and says over and over and over again, "Let the Lord be magnified, who takes pleasure in the prosperity of His servant."
Clearly, God caused "His servant" to prosper, and it was so huge that His servant responded with a vocal praise of the God who gets pleasure when he prospers. When God is "magnified," He is raised up, lifted up, exalted. It is the ultimate form of praise.
Let's look at how some other versions state the last part of Psalm 35:27, that which God's servant "says continually":
--"The LORD be exalted, who delights in the well-being of his servant" (NIV)
--"GOD is great--everything works together for good for his servant" (Message)
--"Great is the LORD, who delights in blessing his servant with peace!" (NLT)
--"Great is the LORD, who delights in the welfare of his servant!" (ESV)
--"The LORD is wonderful! God is glad when all goes well for his servant" (CEV)
--"May the Lord be honored. He is pleased when everything goes well with the one who serves him" (NIRV)
The Hebrew word for "prosperity" in Psalm 35:27 is shâlôm (shaw-lomé). Follow carefully the definitions and synonyms for prosperity/shalom: "safe, welfare, i.e. well, happy; welfare, i.e. health, prosperity, peace:--x do, familiar, x fare, favour, + friend, x great, (good) health, (x perfect, such as be at) peace (-able, -ably), prosper (-ity, -ous), rest, safe (-ty), salute, welfare, (x all is, be) well, x wholly."
How would you define "prosperity," for your current situation? If you were experiencing some sort of danger, "prosperity" for you would be safety. If you were ill, "prosperity" would be health. If you were experiencing financial hardship, "prosperity" for you would be...well, prosperity in the traditional sense (i.e., money). If you were experiencing emotional distress, "prosperity" for you would be peace. I could go on for quite a while, but you get the picture.
God desires that nothing be missing, nothing be broken in your life. If you will partner with Him, and do your part (delight in His righteousness, seeking it first), God is faithful to do His part (cause you to prosper, however and wherever you need prosperity). He delights in doing that, He takes pleasure in it, He is honored by your prosperity. Blessing "your socks off" blesses Him.
What this has to do with weight loss: Take stock of your current weight-loss journey. Is it "prosperous" right now? If there is an area that is lacking, take it to the Lord. Ask Him to show you where you may not be doing your part. He will give you wisdom in how to proceed. As you live for Him and are obedient to the direction He gives you, He is magnified, and you'll be shouting for joy, for the victory in your weight-loss journey.
Confession:
I seek God's righteousness, and God causes me to prosper. He is magnified, and I am blessed. He is delighted, and I am whole.
If you have ever doubted whether or not God cares about your circumstances, whatever they may be, I urge you to memorize this verse. Psalm 35:27 is a wonderful promise, and it assures God's "servant" that if he/she goes "all out" for Him, He will give him/her reason to celebrate!
Something has happened, in Psalm 35:27, between the "my part" and the celebration, and that's "God's part." However, "God's part" is hinted at in the very words of the celebrant, who shouts for joy, is glad, and says over and over and over again, "Let the Lord be magnified, who takes pleasure in the prosperity of His servant."
Clearly, God caused "His servant" to prosper, and it was so huge that His servant responded with a vocal praise of the God who gets pleasure when he prospers. When God is "magnified," He is raised up, lifted up, exalted. It is the ultimate form of praise.
Let's look at how some other versions state the last part of Psalm 35:27, that which God's servant "says continually":
--"The LORD be exalted, who delights in the well-being of his servant" (NIV)
--"GOD is great--everything works together for good for his servant" (Message)
--"Great is the LORD, who delights in blessing his servant with peace!" (NLT)
--"Great is the LORD, who delights in the welfare of his servant!" (ESV)
--"The LORD is wonderful! God is glad when all goes well for his servant" (CEV)
--"May the Lord be honored. He is pleased when everything goes well with the one who serves him" (NIRV)
The Hebrew word for "prosperity" in Psalm 35:27 is shâlôm (shaw-lomé). Follow carefully the definitions and synonyms for prosperity/shalom: "safe, welfare, i.e. well, happy; welfare, i.e. health, prosperity, peace:--x do, familiar, x fare, favour, + friend, x great, (good) health, (x perfect, such as be at) peace (-able, -ably), prosper (-ity, -ous), rest, safe (-ty), salute, welfare, (x all is, be) well, x wholly."
How would you define "prosperity," for your current situation? If you were experiencing some sort of danger, "prosperity" for you would be safety. If you were ill, "prosperity" would be health. If you were experiencing financial hardship, "prosperity" for you would be...well, prosperity in the traditional sense (i.e., money). If you were experiencing emotional distress, "prosperity" for you would be peace. I could go on for quite a while, but you get the picture.
God desires that nothing be missing, nothing be broken in your life. If you will partner with Him, and do your part (delight in His righteousness, seeking it first), God is faithful to do His part (cause you to prosper, however and wherever you need prosperity). He delights in doing that, He takes pleasure in it, He is honored by your prosperity. Blessing "your socks off" blesses Him.
What this has to do with weight loss: Take stock of your current weight-loss journey. Is it "prosperous" right now? If there is an area that is lacking, take it to the Lord. Ask Him to show you where you may not be doing your part. He will give you wisdom in how to proceed. As you live for Him and are obedient to the direction He gives you, He is magnified, and you'll be shouting for joy, for the victory in your weight-loss journey.
Confession:
I seek God's righteousness, and God causes me to prosper. He is magnified, and I am blessed. He is delighted, and I am whole.
Sunday, November 8, 2009
Request
Hi, Everyone.
I have a request. When you read each devotion, if you learned something new (were given something new to think about) or were, in any way, blessed by the devotion, would you please mark "new thing" or "blessed me"? You won't be asked to give your name. It would give me some much needed feedback.
Thank you, and God bless you.
Mary
I have a request. When you read each devotion, if you learned something new (were given something new to think about) or were, in any way, blessed by the devotion, would you please mark "new thing" or "blessed me"? You won't be asked to give your name. It would give me some much needed feedback.
Thank you, and God bless you.
Mary
Friday, November 6, 2009
Life Plan Devotion #124 [Strength & Courage]
Joshua 1:5-9 "No one will be able to stand up against you all the days of your life. As I was with Moses, so I will be with you; I will never leave you or forsake you. Be strong and courageous, because you will lead these people to inherit the land I swore to their forefathers to give them. Be strong and very courageous. Be careful to obey all the law my servant Moses gave you; do not turn from it to the right or to the left, that you may be successful wherever you go. Do not let this Book of the Law depart from your mouth, meditate on it day and night, so that you may be careful to do everything written in it. Then you will be prosperous and successful. Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be terrified; do not be discouraged, for the LORD your God will be with you wherever you go" (NIV).
Joshua became leader, after the death of Moses. Joshua must have been hesitant, perhaps even fearful, for three times in Joshua 1:5-9 God says to Joshua, "Be strong and courageous." Joshua accepted Moses' place as leader. God's will for him was Joshua's will, and even if Joshua may have felt inadequate or fearful, he believed God's Word.
Joshua knew something each of us should "know," that going "all out" for God is the unfailing prerequisite for success, in every area of life. What did "success" mean, for Joshua? It was believing in and seeing the fulfillment of that which God had spoken over him, "You and Israel will be able to take this land" (Joshua 1:8e, CEV).
Dear reader, God has a good plan for you, for you to be successful. Will you trust Him? Will you believe Him? Will you follow His Word? Will you be "available" to God, for Him to use you? Will you accept the "place" He has for you? Will you go "all out" for Him? Will you "be strong and courageous," because He has spoken those words over you? If you can say a heartfelt "yes!" to each of those questions, then you and those you "lead" (your family) will be able to experience success, to take hold of it.
What this has to do with weight loss: The weight-loss journey, especially when it involves weight-loss surgery, takes strength and courage. You are not alone. The same God who encouraged young Joshua with "Be strong and courageous" says the same thing to you today, and as you believe in Him and trust in and follow His Word, you will conquer and experience success, which was God's plan for you all along.
Confession:
"Yes, God."
Joshua became leader, after the death of Moses. Joshua must have been hesitant, perhaps even fearful, for three times in Joshua 1:5-9 God says to Joshua, "Be strong and courageous." Joshua accepted Moses' place as leader. God's will for him was Joshua's will, and even if Joshua may have felt inadequate or fearful, he believed God's Word.
Joshua knew something each of us should "know," that going "all out" for God is the unfailing prerequisite for success, in every area of life. What did "success" mean, for Joshua? It was believing in and seeing the fulfillment of that which God had spoken over him, "You and Israel will be able to take this land" (Joshua 1:8e, CEV).
Dear reader, God has a good plan for you, for you to be successful. Will you trust Him? Will you believe Him? Will you follow His Word? Will you be "available" to God, for Him to use you? Will you accept the "place" He has for you? Will you go "all out" for Him? Will you "be strong and courageous," because He has spoken those words over you? If you can say a heartfelt "yes!" to each of those questions, then you and those you "lead" (your family) will be able to experience success, to take hold of it.
What this has to do with weight loss: The weight-loss journey, especially when it involves weight-loss surgery, takes strength and courage. You are not alone. The same God who encouraged young Joshua with "Be strong and courageous" says the same thing to you today, and as you believe in Him and trust in and follow His Word, you will conquer and experience success, which was God's plan for you all along.
Confession:
"Yes, God."
Thursday, November 5, 2009
Life Plan Devotion #123 [Success]
Joshua 1:8 "This Book of the Law shall not depart from your mouth, but you shall meditate on it day and night, that you may observe to do according to all that is written in it. For then you will make your way prosperous, and then you will have good success" (NKJV).
What a wonderful Kingdom principle it is that when we line ourselves up with the Word of God, which is doing our part, God is faithful to do His part!
Last time, we looked at the first of the two "God's part" clauses in the Joshua 1:8 promise, that if we immerse ourselves in God's Word, meditate on and obey it (both our part), God will covenant with us so that we will make our way prosperous (His part).
Today, let's look at the second "God's part" clause of Joshua 1:8, "...and then you will have good success" (NKJV). Let me remind you that this verse is the only verse in the early English version of the Bible which contains the word "success."
When you compare this second "God's part" clause to the first "God's part" clause, you see a familiar phrase, "then you will," which we know means "at that time you will..." The use of the conjunction "and," linking the two "God part" clauses, assures us that not only will God see to it that we "make [our] way prosperous," but He will also see to it that we "have good success."
Let's look at the original Hebrew for "have good success." The Hebrew word for "have" is hâyâh (haw-yaw’), which means "to exist, i.e. to be or become, come to pass (always emphatic): beacon, altogether be (become, accomplished, committed, like), break, cause, come (to pass), + follow, happen, have." Look at that list. To which word or phrase are you drawn? Take note of it, for there is a reason you are drawn to it.
The Hebrew word for "good" is râtsâh (raw-tsaw’), which means "to be pleased with, satisfied, acceptable, delight, enjoy, favourable, desire, (good) pleasure (own self, voluntary), will, as...(what) would." Do you see that you determine what is "good success" for your situation, and because you are in covenant relationship with God, He agrees with you?
We have so many believers praying and merely asking God to help them pay their bills month by month. If they are in covenant relationship with God, that's exactly what He does for them. What will you believe God to do for you, for your family? Will you be content to accept that "good success" for you is merely food, clothing, and shelter? That's not a bad thing; it's "acceptable." Do you want to live an "acceptable" life, though, nothing more? Think about that. As lovingly as I can, I tell you that it is up to you, my dear brother/sister in Christ.
The Hebrew word for "success" is sâkal (saw-kal’), which means "to be, make, act circumspect and hence intelligent:--consider, expert, instruct, prosper, (deal) prudent(-ly), (give) skill(-ful), have good success, teach, (have, make to) understand(-ing), wisdom, (be, behave self, consider, make) wise(-ly), guide wittingly."
So often we think of "success" as the pot of gold at the end of the rainbow. Consider that "success" may be the "rainbow," the road on which you have chosen to travel. Line yourself up with the Word of God, and He promises to equip you for the journey. He'll help you have the intelligence, the wisdom and understanding, the guidance to make wise decisions and equip you with the skills to bring about what you decide is "good" and the "success" that you determine to make happen.
If you do your part, God will do His part, and "...you will be wise and successful in everything" (NCV).
What this has to do with weight loss: What is "good success" for you, on your weight-loss journey? Is it the goal weight at the end or the day-by-day getting there? Focus on living daily by God's Word, and you will find that your weight-loss journey is positively affected. God will do His part, as you do yours.
Confession:
Because I line myself up with the Word of God, He covenants with me to assist me on the journey which I decide is "good success" for me and my family.
What a wonderful Kingdom principle it is that when we line ourselves up with the Word of God, which is doing our part, God is faithful to do His part!
Last time, we looked at the first of the two "God's part" clauses in the Joshua 1:8 promise, that if we immerse ourselves in God's Word, meditate on and obey it (both our part), God will covenant with us so that we will make our way prosperous (His part).
Today, let's look at the second "God's part" clause of Joshua 1:8, "...and then you will have good success" (NKJV). Let me remind you that this verse is the only verse in the early English version of the Bible which contains the word "success."
When you compare this second "God's part" clause to the first "God's part" clause, you see a familiar phrase, "then you will," which we know means "at that time you will..." The use of the conjunction "and," linking the two "God part" clauses, assures us that not only will God see to it that we "make [our] way prosperous," but He will also see to it that we "have good success."
Let's look at the original Hebrew for "have good success." The Hebrew word for "have" is hâyâh (haw-yaw’), which means "to exist, i.e. to be or become, come to pass (always emphatic): beacon, altogether be (become, accomplished, committed, like), break, cause, come (to pass), + follow, happen, have." Look at that list. To which word or phrase are you drawn? Take note of it, for there is a reason you are drawn to it.
The Hebrew word for "good" is râtsâh (raw-tsaw’), which means "to be pleased with, satisfied, acceptable, delight, enjoy, favourable, desire, (good) pleasure (own self, voluntary), will, as...(what) would." Do you see that you determine what is "good success" for your situation, and because you are in covenant relationship with God, He agrees with you?
We have so many believers praying and merely asking God to help them pay their bills month by month. If they are in covenant relationship with God, that's exactly what He does for them. What will you believe God to do for you, for your family? Will you be content to accept that "good success" for you is merely food, clothing, and shelter? That's not a bad thing; it's "acceptable." Do you want to live an "acceptable" life, though, nothing more? Think about that. As lovingly as I can, I tell you that it is up to you, my dear brother/sister in Christ.
The Hebrew word for "success" is sâkal (saw-kal’), which means "to be, make, act circumspect and hence intelligent:--consider, expert, instruct, prosper, (deal) prudent(-ly), (give) skill(-ful), have good success, teach, (have, make to) understand(-ing), wisdom, (be, behave self, consider, make) wise(-ly), guide wittingly."
So often we think of "success" as the pot of gold at the end of the rainbow. Consider that "success" may be the "rainbow," the road on which you have chosen to travel. Line yourself up with the Word of God, and He promises to equip you for the journey. He'll help you have the intelligence, the wisdom and understanding, the guidance to make wise decisions and equip you with the skills to bring about what you decide is "good" and the "success" that you determine to make happen.
If you do your part, God will do His part, and "...you will be wise and successful in everything" (NCV).
What this has to do with weight loss: What is "good success" for you, on your weight-loss journey? Is it the goal weight at the end or the day-by-day getting there? Focus on living daily by God's Word, and you will find that your weight-loss journey is positively affected. God will do His part, as you do yours.
Confession:
Because I line myself up with the Word of God, He covenants with me to assist me on the journey which I decide is "good success" for me and my family.
Wednesday, November 4, 2009
Life Plan Devotion #122 [Prosperous]
Joshua 1:8 "This Book of the Law shall not depart from your mouth, but you shall meditate in it day and night, that you may observe to do according to all that is written in it. For then you will make your way prosperous, and then you will have good success" (NKJV).
We have spent 3 days looking at the 3 "My part" clauses of the promise contained in Joshua 1:8. We know that before God can do His part, we must do our part. We discovered that our part involves immersing oneself in the Word of God, by reading, memorizing, reciting, studying, thinking, pondering, speaking, and meditating on it. Also, we discovered that we must act on what is in the Word of God. It is our guidebook, and we must heed and obey the principles contained in it. It is for our good.
Today, we get to discover the first of 2 "God's part" clauses contained in the Joshua 1:8 promise. When we do our part, we line ourselves up with the Word of God, to receive "God's part." Joshua 1:8 states, "for then you will make your way prosperous..." (NKJV).
Let's look at the Hebrew definitions for each of the main words in this first "God's part" clause. I won't include the Hebrew word for "then." Suffice it to say that it simply means "at that time or place." The word "you" is the subject of this clause, not "God." Even though God promises to "make your way prosperous," He will not do it without you.
Notice the wonderful helping verb "will." It does not say "might." When we do our part, according to God's Word, the result is always that the promise will happen. It may not happen right away, but it will happen!
I almost didn't look up the Hebrew word for "make," but I felt the Spirit's nudging to do so, and I'm so glad I heeded! The Hebrew word for "make" is kârath (kaw-rath’), which means "to covenant (i.e. make an alliance); be freed." This is the reason why God breathed "you," not "I" (meaning God). God is a covenant God. He is all about partnering with us, rather than doing things on His own. Let's face it, often we wish God would just snap His fingers and make all our problems, especially our financial concerns, go away. He just does not work that way. He desires to work in and through us, and that is the covenant relationship. The absolutely astounding part of the definition of the Hebrew word for "make" is that the very second we covenant with God, we are "freed." In the spiritual realm, in the Kingdom of God, the second we covenant with God, our "way" is made "prosperous." It is loosed in Heaven, and it's on its way!
The Hebrew word for "way" in Joshua 1:8 is derek (deh'-rek), and it means "a road; a course of life or mode of action, journey, manner, highway, pathway, whithersoever." I love that last word, whithersoever, because it means "whatever, whenever, wherever." You can't get more inclusive than that!
"For then you will make your way prosperous..." (Joshua 1:8, NKJV). The Hebrew word for "prosperous" is tsâlêach (tsaw-lay’-akh), which means "to push forward:--break out, come mightily, go over, be good, be meet, be profitable; cause to, effect, make to, send prosperity." Look at that list. Which word or phrase describes how you want your "course of life or mode of action" to be "prosperous"? Perhaps you feel stuck, so prosperity for you right now would be "to push forward." Maybe your "manner" has been "okay." You do what you need to do every day, but you're ready for more. If that describes you, then prosperity for you would be to "break out." Based on what "prosperous" means, ask yourself the question, "What do I want God to do for me?"
What this has to do with weight loss: Have you been prosperous in your weight-loss journey? If the answer is "Yes, but not right now" or "No," you're not stuck there forever. What do you want God to do for you? Ask Him. Be specific. If you know that you line up with the "My part" of Joshua 1:8, God says to you, "then you will be prosperous" (TNIV). If you know that you don't line up with the "My part" of Joshua 1:8, do what you need to do to get there. You'll be glad you did.
After you have prayed your specific prosperity request, make it your confession, stating that because you line up with God's Word, it will happen. It's on its way!
We have spent 3 days looking at the 3 "My part" clauses of the promise contained in Joshua 1:8. We know that before God can do His part, we must do our part. We discovered that our part involves immersing oneself in the Word of God, by reading, memorizing, reciting, studying, thinking, pondering, speaking, and meditating on it. Also, we discovered that we must act on what is in the Word of God. It is our guidebook, and we must heed and obey the principles contained in it. It is for our good.
Today, we get to discover the first of 2 "God's part" clauses contained in the Joshua 1:8 promise. When we do our part, we line ourselves up with the Word of God, to receive "God's part." Joshua 1:8 states, "for then you will make your way prosperous..." (NKJV).
Let's look at the Hebrew definitions for each of the main words in this first "God's part" clause. I won't include the Hebrew word for "then." Suffice it to say that it simply means "at that time or place." The word "you" is the subject of this clause, not "God." Even though God promises to "make your way prosperous," He will not do it without you.
Notice the wonderful helping verb "will." It does not say "might." When we do our part, according to God's Word, the result is always that the promise will happen. It may not happen right away, but it will happen!
I almost didn't look up the Hebrew word for "make," but I felt the Spirit's nudging to do so, and I'm so glad I heeded! The Hebrew word for "make" is kârath (kaw-rath’), which means "to covenant (i.e. make an alliance); be freed." This is the reason why God breathed "you," not "I" (meaning God). God is a covenant God. He is all about partnering with us, rather than doing things on His own. Let's face it, often we wish God would just snap His fingers and make all our problems, especially our financial concerns, go away. He just does not work that way. He desires to work in and through us, and that is the covenant relationship. The absolutely astounding part of the definition of the Hebrew word for "make" is that the very second we covenant with God, we are "freed." In the spiritual realm, in the Kingdom of God, the second we covenant with God, our "way" is made "prosperous." It is loosed in Heaven, and it's on its way!
The Hebrew word for "way" in Joshua 1:8 is derek (deh'-rek), and it means "a road; a course of life or mode of action, journey, manner, highway, pathway, whithersoever." I love that last word, whithersoever, because it means "whatever, whenever, wherever." You can't get more inclusive than that!
"For then you will make your way prosperous..." (Joshua 1:8, NKJV). The Hebrew word for "prosperous" is tsâlêach (tsaw-lay’-akh), which means "to push forward:--break out, come mightily, go over, be good, be meet, be profitable; cause to, effect, make to, send prosperity." Look at that list. Which word or phrase describes how you want your "course of life or mode of action" to be "prosperous"? Perhaps you feel stuck, so prosperity for you right now would be "to push forward." Maybe your "manner" has been "okay." You do what you need to do every day, but you're ready for more. If that describes you, then prosperity for you would be to "break out." Based on what "prosperous" means, ask yourself the question, "What do I want God to do for me?"
What this has to do with weight loss: Have you been prosperous in your weight-loss journey? If the answer is "Yes, but not right now" or "No," you're not stuck there forever. What do you want God to do for you? Ask Him. Be specific. If you know that you line up with the "My part" of Joshua 1:8, God says to you, "then you will be prosperous" (TNIV). If you know that you don't line up with the "My part" of Joshua 1:8, do what you need to do to get there. You'll be glad you did.
After you have prayed your specific prosperity request, make it your confession, stating that because you line up with God's Word, it will happen. It's on its way!
Tuesday, November 3, 2009
Life Plan Devotion #121 [Just do it]
Joshua 1:8 "This Book of the Law shall not depart from your mouth, but you shall meditate on it day and night, that you may observe to do according to all that is written in it. For then you will make your way prosperous, and then you will have good success" (NKJV).
We have looked at two of the three "my part" clauses in this promise of success. Today, let's look at the third clause of Joshua 1:8, "that you may observe to do according to all that is written in it."
The Hebrew word for "observe" for Joshua 1:8c is shâmar (shaw-mar’), which means "guard, protect, attend to: be circumspect, take heed, keep, mark, look narrowly, observe, preserve, regard, reserve, watch."
It is not enough to read God's Word. Without illumination of the Holy Spirit, without being circumspect ("heedful of circumstances or consequences," Webster's), the reader may as well be reading the newspaper or a novel, for all the good it will do him/her.
The following is a list of how some versions state our Joshua 1:8c clause:
--"...so that you may be careful to do everything written in it" (TNIV).
--"...take heed to do according to all that is written therein" (Darby).
--"...Make sure you do everything that is written in it" (NIRV).
--"...observe and do according to all that is written in it" (Amplified).
--"...obey it completely" (CEV).
--"...obey everything that is written there" (NCV).
--"...making sure you practice everything written in it" (Message).
God's Word is our instruction book, and it is essential that we know it and mediate on it. There is a third key aspect, and that is that we must do what the Word tells us to do. In John 14:15, Jesus said, "If you love me, keep my commandments" (NKJV). He also said, "If anyone loves me, he will obey my teaching" (John 14:23, NIV).
I remember seeing a church marquee that said something like, "If you're a child of the king, there ought to be a family resemblance." How true! I fear we have many who think they are Christians, may have grown up in the church, may attend church, may even have signed a card or repeated a prayer, but are not truly born again.
Don't get me wrong. I'm not judging. "All have sinned and come short of the glory of God" (Romans 3:23, KJV), but each of us must take a good long look at our own life, at what we see, say, and do. In First John 2:3, we are told, "We know that we have come to know him if we obey his commands" (NIV).
God's Word is meant to transform us, to help us "look" more like our Father and King. In James 1:22-25, we are admonished to "be doers of the Word [obey the message], and not merely listeners to it, betraying yourselves [into deception by reasoning contrary to the Truth]. For if anyone only listens to the Word without obeying it and being a doer of it, he is like a man who looks carefully at his [own] natural face in a mirror; For he thoughtfully observes himself, and then goes off and promptly forgets what he was like. But he who looks carefully into the faultless law, the [law] of liberty, and is faithful to it and perseveres in looking into it, being not a heedless listener who forgets but an active doer [who obeys], he shall be blessed in his doing (his life of obedience)" (Amplified).
Reading, meditating on, heeding and obeying God's Word is not legalism; it is liberty. It's the "my part" of the promises found in Joshua 1:8 and James 1:25 (among many other promises).
What this has to do with weight loss: As you allow God's Word to transform you on the inside, your "outside" will reflect that, as well. See what God's Word has to say about your weight-loss journey, and then just do it. The end result will be amazing.
Confession:
I read, meditate on, heed, and obey God's Word, so I can claim God's promises.
We have looked at two of the three "my part" clauses in this promise of success. Today, let's look at the third clause of Joshua 1:8, "that you may observe to do according to all that is written in it."
The Hebrew word for "observe" for Joshua 1:8c is shâmar (shaw-mar’), which means "guard, protect, attend to: be circumspect, take heed, keep, mark, look narrowly, observe, preserve, regard, reserve, watch."
It is not enough to read God's Word. Without illumination of the Holy Spirit, without being circumspect ("heedful of circumstances or consequences," Webster's), the reader may as well be reading the newspaper or a novel, for all the good it will do him/her.
The following is a list of how some versions state our Joshua 1:8c clause:
--"...so that you may be careful to do everything written in it" (TNIV).
--"...take heed to do according to all that is written therein" (Darby).
--"...Make sure you do everything that is written in it" (NIRV).
--"...observe and do according to all that is written in it" (Amplified).
--"...obey it completely" (CEV).
--"...obey everything that is written there" (NCV).
--"...making sure you practice everything written in it" (Message).
God's Word is our instruction book, and it is essential that we know it and mediate on it. There is a third key aspect, and that is that we must do what the Word tells us to do. In John 14:15, Jesus said, "If you love me, keep my commandments" (NKJV). He also said, "If anyone loves me, he will obey my teaching" (John 14:23, NIV).
I remember seeing a church marquee that said something like, "If you're a child of the king, there ought to be a family resemblance." How true! I fear we have many who think they are Christians, may have grown up in the church, may attend church, may even have signed a card or repeated a prayer, but are not truly born again.
Don't get me wrong. I'm not judging. "All have sinned and come short of the glory of God" (Romans 3:23, KJV), but each of us must take a good long look at our own life, at what we see, say, and do. In First John 2:3, we are told, "We know that we have come to know him if we obey his commands" (NIV).
God's Word is meant to transform us, to help us "look" more like our Father and King. In James 1:22-25, we are admonished to "be doers of the Word [obey the message], and not merely listeners to it, betraying yourselves [into deception by reasoning contrary to the Truth]. For if anyone only listens to the Word without obeying it and being a doer of it, he is like a man who looks carefully at his [own] natural face in a mirror; For he thoughtfully observes himself, and then goes off and promptly forgets what he was like. But he who looks carefully into the faultless law, the [law] of liberty, and is faithful to it and perseveres in looking into it, being not a heedless listener who forgets but an active doer [who obeys], he shall be blessed in his doing (his life of obedience)" (Amplified).
Reading, meditating on, heeding and obeying God's Word is not legalism; it is liberty. It's the "my part" of the promises found in Joshua 1:8 and James 1:25 (among many other promises).
What this has to do with weight loss: As you allow God's Word to transform you on the inside, your "outside" will reflect that, as well. See what God's Word has to say about your weight-loss journey, and then just do it. The end result will be amazing.
Confession:
I read, meditate on, heed, and obey God's Word, so I can claim God's promises.
Monday, November 2, 2009
Life Plan Devotion #120 [Meditate]
Joshua 1:8 "This Book of the Law shall not depart from your mouth, but you shall meditate on it day and night, that you may observe to do according to all that is written in it. For then you will make your way prosperous, and then you will have good success" (NKJV).
Last time, we looked at the importance of following the first clause of Joshua 1:8, "This Book of the Law shall not depart from your mouth," that it is crucial that we know what God's Word says.
Today, let's look at the second clause of Joshua 1:8, "but you shall meditate in it day and night." The Hebrew word for "meditate" is “hâgâh” (haw-gaw’), which means "to murmur (in pleasure); to ponder--imagine, meditate, mutter, roar, speak, study, talk, utter."
The list of synonyms in the definition for the Hebrew word "meditate" is reflected in the way the following versions state our Joshua 1:8b clause:
--"meditate on it" (TNIV)
--"think about what it says" (NIRV)
--"study it" (NCV)
--"recite it" (HCSB)
--"Ponder and meditate on it" (Message)
The second verse of the first chapter of the Book of Psalms says that "His [the blessed man's] delight is in the law of the LORD; and on His law he meditates day and night" (Psalm 1:2, NIV, words added in brackets by author, for clarity). One of my favorite chapters in the Bible is Psalm 119. While I encourage you to read that chapter at least once a month, let's look at four verses specific to our Joshua 1:8b clause. As you read them, ask yourself if you can honestly echo the words.
"I meditate on your precepts and consider your ways" (Psalm 119:15). "I reach out my hands for your commandments, which I love, and I meditate on your decrees" (v. 48). "Oh, how I love your law! I meditate on it all day long" (v. 97). "My eyes stay open through the watches of the night, that I may meditate on your promises" (v. 148, NIV).
God wants us to read, study, memorize, recite, speak, pray, ponder, think about, meditate in and on His Word. When are we to do all that? According to Joshua 1:8, we should meditate on God's Word "day and night." Even when we're going about our daily business, God's Word should be coming to mind and on the tip of our tongue.
Even when we're asleep, if we have hidden God's Word in our heart, I believe God's Word continues to work in us. If "He who watches over you will not slumber; indeed, He who watches over [His people] will neither slumber nor sleep" (Psalm 121:3-4, NIV, words in brackets added by author, for clarity), and since He is the Word (John 1:1), and since His Word is "living and active" (Hebrews 4:12, NIV), it makes sense that the Word of God continues to work in us, even when we're asleep. Think about that--God's living, active, powerful Word works within your mind, heart, and spirit--day and night.
What this has to do with weight loss: When you think about your weight-loss journey, what do you think about? Make a conscious choice to pay attention to the thoughts that flit through your mind throughout the day (or stay for a while). If those thoughts tend to be negative, self-defeating, then you have some work to do, and God's Word can help you renew your mind. Give it a try. Remember, your thoughts become spoken words and actions and habits, so they're important.
Confession:
Because I love God's Word and because I want success in every area of my life, I read, memorize, study, meditate on, think about, speak and pray the powerful Word of God every day.
Last time, we looked at the importance of following the first clause of Joshua 1:8, "This Book of the Law shall not depart from your mouth," that it is crucial that we know what God's Word says.
Today, let's look at the second clause of Joshua 1:8, "but you shall meditate in it day and night." The Hebrew word for "meditate" is “hâgâh” (haw-gaw’), which means "to murmur (in pleasure); to ponder--imagine, meditate, mutter, roar, speak, study, talk, utter."
The list of synonyms in the definition for the Hebrew word "meditate" is reflected in the way the following versions state our Joshua 1:8b clause:
--"meditate on it" (TNIV)
--"think about what it says" (NIRV)
--"study it" (NCV)
--"recite it" (HCSB)
--"Ponder and meditate on it" (Message)
The second verse of the first chapter of the Book of Psalms says that "His [the blessed man's] delight is in the law of the LORD; and on His law he meditates day and night" (Psalm 1:2, NIV, words added in brackets by author, for clarity). One of my favorite chapters in the Bible is Psalm 119. While I encourage you to read that chapter at least once a month, let's look at four verses specific to our Joshua 1:8b clause. As you read them, ask yourself if you can honestly echo the words.
"I meditate on your precepts and consider your ways" (Psalm 119:15). "I reach out my hands for your commandments, which I love, and I meditate on your decrees" (v. 48). "Oh, how I love your law! I meditate on it all day long" (v. 97). "My eyes stay open through the watches of the night, that I may meditate on your promises" (v. 148, NIV).
God wants us to read, study, memorize, recite, speak, pray, ponder, think about, meditate in and on His Word. When are we to do all that? According to Joshua 1:8, we should meditate on God's Word "day and night." Even when we're going about our daily business, God's Word should be coming to mind and on the tip of our tongue.
Even when we're asleep, if we have hidden God's Word in our heart, I believe God's Word continues to work in us. If "He who watches over you will not slumber; indeed, He who watches over [His people] will neither slumber nor sleep" (Psalm 121:3-4, NIV, words in brackets added by author, for clarity), and since He is the Word (John 1:1), and since His Word is "living and active" (Hebrews 4:12, NIV), it makes sense that the Word of God continues to work in us, even when we're asleep. Think about that--God's living, active, powerful Word works within your mind, heart, and spirit--day and night.
What this has to do with weight loss: When you think about your weight-loss journey, what do you think about? Make a conscious choice to pay attention to the thoughts that flit through your mind throughout the day (or stay for a while). If those thoughts tend to be negative, self-defeating, then you have some work to do, and God's Word can help you renew your mind. Give it a try. Remember, your thoughts become spoken words and actions and habits, so they're important.
Confession:
Because I love God's Word and because I want success in every area of my life, I read, memorize, study, meditate on, think about, speak and pray the powerful Word of God every day.
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