All of life seems to be a race. In the movie Get Smart, Agent 86 is walking down the street and is run into by Agent 99. He tells her that life isn't a race. She replies with, "If it were, I would win." This is often our view of things. We think that getting somewhere faster is the road to fulfillment. But, as I read on a disposable glove box, "Quality is a journey, not a destination." When we rush through life, we miss all of the little moments that make up life. We miss out on the joy of living and just being. When we go to the store, we have a goal in mind -- to get a few specific things on our list -- and that is all that matters. But what about all the stuff we forget to enjoy? The car ride, the scenery, the people, the amazing intersection of a thousand busy lives clashing together without even stopping to say hello.
One of my favorite quotes comes from Psalm 46:10 -- "Be still, and know that I am God." There is a reason that God commands us to rest on the Sabbath. We need to take the time to let God work and speak in our lives. We need to start noticing all that God has blessed us with. We need to take a moment to share our lives with one another and show God's love in our lives. We need to slow down.
Reflection Questions:
Q: Are you addicted to hurry, rush and adrenalin? Explain.
A: In some ways I am. I want to get to the next thing, and I want to be done with where I am now. I want to get my work done as fast as I can.
Q: How do you feel about being stuck behind cars that go slowly? How do you react to a slow sales clerk? What is your response to children who dawdle?
A: When I am alone, I quickly grow impatient in these situations. But when I am with someone or share the moment with someone, I can see how enjoyable it can be to just live in the moment and enjoy the time that we have. Looking back, I can see how much I have enjoyed just being with people in the car on the way to something. The conversations, the humor, the intersection of perspectives .... even the silence is worth living for. I pray that God will give me the humility to realize that where I am is where I need to be and to help me to live in the moment, every moment.
Tuesday, September 27, 2011
Monday, September 26, 2011
Simplicity
In a society full of clutter, our lives are defined by how much we have and do. But the more things we shove into our crowded lives - the more things can go wrong. Simplicity is letting go of this nature of covetousness and being content with what we have. As Paul said:
We are made in the image of God! Our value is not in how much stuff we have or how many groups or activities we can be a part of. Our identity, our value, our purpose for living -- is found in a righteous relationship with our Father in heaven.
Be simple. Let your "yes" be "yes" and your "no" be "no."
Reflection Questions
Q: How has the "more is better" mentality shaped you?
A: I sometimes get bored and think If only I had that, then I would be entertained. But that never works out. Years ago, I was depressed and lonely and had no purpose in my life. So I decided to buy an Xbox 360. I thought that having a 360 would keep me entertained and help me get through the tough times. But I was wrong. An Xbox can't give me purpose. I needed to find my identity in God and He would give my life purpose and meaning. And that is what I eventually came to do.
Q: When have you downsized? What was it like for you?
A: About a year ago, I had a messy room in my messy apartment. My room was still a mess from when I had shared it with someone, but I was at this time the only one living in my room. I cleaned up everything and put it all in storage. I simplified my room down to a bed, a couch and a chair. No TV, no video games, no movies or legos or toys or trinkets -- just a few books from church stacked in the corner for reading. It was awesome. It brought my life down from trying to juggle a lot of things at once to where I was simply living and living simply. There was peace in just being, instead of trying to own and display and play with and ignore everything at once.
"... I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances. I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation ... I can do everything through him who gives me strength."All the things that we have and try to do can hinder our walk with God. Maybe they distract us from our devotions or spending time with our family. Maybe they lead us down dark paths of thought. Or maybe they alter our perception of our selves.
Philippians 4:11-13
We are made in the image of God! Our value is not in how much stuff we have or how many groups or activities we can be a part of. Our identity, our value, our purpose for living -- is found in a righteous relationship with our Father in heaven.
Be simple. Let your "yes" be "yes" and your "no" be "no."
Reflection Questions
Q: How has the "more is better" mentality shaped you?
A: I sometimes get bored and think If only I had that, then I would be entertained. But that never works out. Years ago, I was depressed and lonely and had no purpose in my life. So I decided to buy an Xbox 360. I thought that having a 360 would keep me entertained and help me get through the tough times. But I was wrong. An Xbox can't give me purpose. I needed to find my identity in God and He would give my life purpose and meaning. And that is what I eventually came to do.
Q: When have you downsized? What was it like for you?
A: About a year ago, I had a messy room in my messy apartment. My room was still a mess from when I had shared it with someone, but I was at this time the only one living in my room. I cleaned up everything and put it all in storage. I simplified my room down to a bed, a couch and a chair. No TV, no video games, no movies or legos or toys or trinkets -- just a few books from church stacked in the corner for reading. It was awesome. It brought my life down from trying to juggle a lot of things at once to where I was simply living and living simply. There was peace in just being, instead of trying to own and display and play with and ignore everything at once.
Saturday, September 24, 2011
Self-Care
Today's devotional is on the importance of taking care of yourself. We have to realize that we are all made in God's image -- in his likeness. We often think that our body is separate from our soul, but being made in the image of God and His Divine Trinity, we likewise have three aspects to ourselves. We have our mind, with which we choose to follow God. We have our souls, or spirit within us, which calls out to the Spirit of God. But we also have our bodies which according to 1 Corinthians 3:16 are the temple of God.
We need to realize that Christ gave His life out of His great love for us, and we can not take that for granted. We are made to live healthy lives and to take care of our bodies, but we often think that our bodies have no bearing on our spiritual lives. This is not true. Think how cloudy your mind can get when your body doesn't get enough sleep and how much clarity can be found in sleeping well and eating a good breakfast.
Romans 12:1 says, "Therefore, I urge you, brothers, in view of God's mercy, to offer your bodies as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God -- this is your spiritual act of worship." Our lives should reflect God's glory and wonder -- and our bodies are the most visible indication of how we value God's gift of our selves.
Reflection Questions
Q: How have you neglected caring for your health, your body, your relationships? How might Jesus be inviting you more deeply into some area of self-care?
A: I don't really exercise. I'm not physically lazy, however. I do look for opportunities to play sports with people, but I guess I could be a little more adamant about ensuring that this happens at least a few times a week.
Q: What is experiencing burnout like for you? What do you do to recover? How has it changed the way you live?
A: I don't get enough sleep and then I can't focus on anything and I am irritable. I don't do anything to recover. It keeps me from being everything that I could be.
We need to realize that Christ gave His life out of His great love for us, and we can not take that for granted. We are made to live healthy lives and to take care of our bodies, but we often think that our bodies have no bearing on our spiritual lives. This is not true. Think how cloudy your mind can get when your body doesn't get enough sleep and how much clarity can be found in sleeping well and eating a good breakfast.
Romans 12:1 says, "Therefore, I urge you, brothers, in view of God's mercy, to offer your bodies as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God -- this is your spiritual act of worship." Our lives should reflect God's glory and wonder -- and our bodies are the most visible indication of how we value God's gift of our selves.
Reflection Questions
Q: How have you neglected caring for your health, your body, your relationships? How might Jesus be inviting you more deeply into some area of self-care?
A: I don't really exercise. I'm not physically lazy, however. I do look for opportunities to play sports with people, but I guess I could be a little more adamant about ensuring that this happens at least a few times a week.
Q: What is experiencing burnout like for you? What do you do to recover? How has it changed the way you live?
A: I don't get enough sleep and then I can't focus on anything and I am irritable. I don't do anything to recover. It keeps me from being everything that I could be.
Friday, September 23, 2011
Retreat
As a good follow-up for yesterday's devotional on rest, today's reading focuses on retreat. Retreat is often thought of as a time where we go and stay up late, play a lot of games, have a lot of worship services and get our heads crammed full of spiritual advice. But retreat is traditionally time taken to be alone with God and to rest in His presence, putting aside all of the cares and concerns, the work and responsibilities, the stress and busy-ness, etc. of life. This is like going to a monastery and just relaxing and spending time with God for a few days. This kind of rest will recharge us to be able to go back to our work with more fervor and a renewed passion. God doesn't plan for us to get burnt out, he wants us to rest in him: "Be still, and know that I am God."
Reflection Questions
Q: Can you describe your desire to get away alone with God? What is your soul aching for?
A: With all of the assigned reading of the Bible, it is currently difficult for me to open up my Bible and not see it as homework or a chore. I want to have back the hunger and thirst for righteousness that I had before -- that intense desire that I had to be in God's presence and to meditate on His Word.
Q: How does simply being with God sound to you?
A: Just peachy. I think that I need to set apart a time every day to say no to my friends, put aside the homework and reading assignments, and just delve into the Word of God and rest in His presence.
Reflection Questions
Q: Can you describe your desire to get away alone with God? What is your soul aching for?
A: With all of the assigned reading of the Bible, it is currently difficult for me to open up my Bible and not see it as homework or a chore. I want to have back the hunger and thirst for righteousness that I had before -- that intense desire that I had to be in God's presence and to meditate on His Word.
Q: How does simply being with God sound to you?
A: Just peachy. I think that I need to set apart a time every day to say no to my friends, put aside the homework and reading assignments, and just delve into the Word of God and rest in His presence.
Thursday, September 22, 2011
Rest
Rest is in the design that God used when he made us. That design is His own image and likeness. He worked and rested, just as we should. When we don't find time for rest, we end up making all of life a chore. We're too exhausted to do what relaxes us and we don't have the attention span or energy to focus our minds long enough to properly connect with those we love or take time to spend with God. We need rest. Not just sleep, but other restful activities as well. We can take a walk, play a game with the family, kick back and listen to some music, etc.
Reflection Questions
Q: What exhausts you or keeps you working past your limits?
A: I have a lot of reading to do and I fall asleep every time I try to read it. The stress of knowing that I'm not getting anything done yet can't sleep at night combines to keep me without rest.
Q: What is is like for you to set aside time to play? How regular and inviolable is that time?
A: I don't take time for play. It just happens while I'm trying to study.
Reflection Questions
Q: What exhausts you or keeps you working past your limits?
A: I have a lot of reading to do and I fall asleep every time I try to read it. The stress of knowing that I'm not getting anything done yet can't sleep at night combines to keep me without rest.
Q: What is is like for you to set aside time to play? How regular and inviolable is that time?
A: I don't take time for play. It just happens while I'm trying to study.
Wednesday, September 21, 2011
Practicing the Presence
Today's devotional practice is called "Practicing the Presence." It is giving emphasis to the presence of God in our lives throughout the day. The idea is that at different times and between activities a prayer could be said or a pause for listening could be had. One thing that the book said that I liked was when it quoted from C.S. Lewis in Letters to Malcolm: Chiefly on Prayer: "We may ignore, but we can nowhere evade, the presence of God." Immanuel means "God with us." When Jesus left this earth he sent to us the Holy Spirit so that we will never be alone. From the beginning of time, when God walked in the Garden of Eden with Adam and Eve, God has always been with us. It is in practicing setting aside little moments to reflect on God's presence that we can renew our hope, joy and peace throughout the day.
Reflection Questions
Q: Where do your thoughts go when they aren't focused on work or diverted by amusement?
What do these thoughts reveal about your concerns and priorities?
A: When I'm left alone with my thoughts, they often go to what God wants me to do and whether I am attentive to that or not. A lot of times I also start to think of all the things that I have to worry about and I struggle to remember that God is who he says he is. These thoughts reveal to me that God is the highest priority in my life and that my concerns are mainly that I will be wise enough to know when it is that I should act and when it is that I need to, as God says, "Be still, and know that I am God."
Q: What is it like for you when God shows up at an unexpected moment?
A: It is definitely refreshing as a reminder that God is living and active in my life. Sometimes I forget how much He loves me, and I feel like I'm on my own. But I'm not, and sometimes He just has to remind me of that.
Reflection Questions
Q: Where do your thoughts go when they aren't focused on work or diverted by amusement?
What do these thoughts reveal about your concerns and priorities?
A: When I'm left alone with my thoughts, they often go to what God wants me to do and whether I am attentive to that or not. A lot of times I also start to think of all the things that I have to worry about and I struggle to remember that God is who he says he is. These thoughts reveal to me that God is the highest priority in my life and that my concerns are mainly that I will be wise enough to know when it is that I should act and when it is that I need to, as God says, "Be still, and know that I am God."
Q: What is it like for you when God shows up at an unexpected moment?
A: It is definitely refreshing as a reminder that God is living and active in my life. Sometimes I forget how much He loves me, and I feel like I'm on my own. But I'm not, and sometimes He just has to remind me of that.
Tuesday, September 20, 2011
Journaling
Today's devotional was on journaling. It presents an opportunity for us to write down and get out what frustrates us, what we're worried about -- which should also be things we're praying about -- what we're excited about, what we're praying for, what passions we have and what burdens we have. Through this, we can manage our thoughts and prevent public outbursts of emotion. We can also look back and see where the journey has taken us and be able to have documented when God worked in our lives or on our behalf. It can reveal to us deep-seeded issues or themes in our lives that we may have been otherwise unaware of. Journaling helps us to become transparent and honest with ourselves and also before God.
Reflection Questions
Q: How does writing help you focus or know what you think?
A: It seems more official and concrete than just thought. It's easy to think things without analyzing them. Figuring out how to articulate my thoughts does something to calm my mind and look at it more productively. It gives me clarity of thought to know that words can express what I think.
Q: How does the thought of someone reading your journal strike you?
A: Well, I've actually had someone read my journal before so I know what it feels like. It feels like your inner thoughts were invaded. It's like there is no safe place for you to express yourself. It makes it hard to be real and open even with yourself - which is where you have to start if you plan to be real and open with anyone else.
Reflection Questions
Q: How does writing help you focus or know what you think?
A: It seems more official and concrete than just thought. It's easy to think things without analyzing them. Figuring out how to articulate my thoughts does something to calm my mind and look at it more productively. It gives me clarity of thought to know that words can express what I think.
Q: How does the thought of someone reading your journal strike you?
A: Well, I've actually had someone read my journal before so I know what it feels like. It feels like your inner thoughts were invaded. It's like there is no safe place for you to express yourself. It makes it hard to be real and open even with yourself - which is where you have to start if you plan to be real and open with anyone else.
Saturday, September 17, 2011
Contemplation
The devotion today was on contemplation. It pointed out the many ways that our western civilization places importance on doing rather than being. We are so focused on our accomplishments, getting things done, and trying to get ahead or for some of us to just keep our head above water that we neglect the beauty of just being. Why is it even important to be?
Doing will come to an end just as we find something else to do. But being is something that doesn't end. The book reminded me that our God was the God who said, "I AM WHO I AM." That is a statement of being. We worship God not just because of what He's done, but because of who He is. We cannot fully know the character of a person, but through meditation and contemplation we can learn to know who God is more and more each day.
Reflection Questions
Q: What sort of things do you contemplate? What happens to you when you contemplate?
A: Well, when my mind goes into deep thought and I consider what I know and what I don't know, I realize how truly amazing God is. He is all knowing. If I knew the stuff about people that God knows about them, I'd probably be a hermit. His love is real and His love is for everyone. My contemplation can't help but end in praise.
Q: How do you contemplate your spiritual journey and relationship with God?
A: When I think about my spiritual journey, it is at first very saddening but then at last very joyous. I can see some of my faults and I can sometimes see how those have caused me pain or hardship, or how the growth out of them can be unpleasant. I think, with all I've learned ... I'm still not much. And that is where the joy comes in. Because of the fact that I serve an awesome God, it doesn't matter how inadequate I think I am. It's not about me, it's about Him. I've often said, "I'm nobody's tool but God's." I can rejoice in this:
Doing will come to an end just as we find something else to do. But being is something that doesn't end. The book reminded me that our God was the God who said, "I AM WHO I AM." That is a statement of being. We worship God not just because of what He's done, but because of who He is. We cannot fully know the character of a person, but through meditation and contemplation we can learn to know who God is more and more each day.
Reflection Questions
Q: What sort of things do you contemplate? What happens to you when you contemplate?
A: Well, when my mind goes into deep thought and I consider what I know and what I don't know, I realize how truly amazing God is. He is all knowing. If I knew the stuff about people that God knows about them, I'd probably be a hermit. His love is real and His love is for everyone. My contemplation can't help but end in praise.
Q: How do you contemplate your spiritual journey and relationship with God?
A: When I think about my spiritual journey, it is at first very saddening but then at last very joyous. I can see some of my faults and I can sometimes see how those have caused me pain or hardship, or how the growth out of them can be unpleasant. I think, with all I've learned ... I'm still not much. And that is where the joy comes in. Because of the fact that I serve an awesome God, it doesn't matter how inadequate I think I am. It's not about me, it's about Him. I've often said, "I'm nobody's tool but God's." I can rejoice in this:
But he said to me, "My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness." Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ's power may rest on me.
2 Corinthians 12:9
Tuesday, September 13, 2011
Holy Communion
Today's devotional is something that is really important but also often done incorrectly -- with the wrong motives. Communion isn't something that we do for God. We can never believe that it is through something that we do that God loves us. It is never a matter of "what we can do for God." God needs nothing from us and He has done it all. That is amazing!
The devotional mentioned what is called the "paschal mystery" : Christ has died; Christ is risen; Christ will come again. 1 Corinthians 11:26 says this, "For whenever you eat this bread and drink this cup, you proclaim the Lord's death until he comes." When we take communion, we are not just saying "I believe," rather we are saying that we will partake also in his suffering, his ministry, and his comfort.
We cannot take communion in an unworthy manner. There is a reason that we call it the "Holy Communion" -- it is sacred: set apart by God as a special offering. But the beautiful thing about it is that Jesus has already given it all. When he looked into the eyes of Judas the betrayer, he said to him, "This is my body, which is given for you." We are not deserving of this great sacrifice, this overwhelming love, but God gave it freely for us. Praise God!!!
Reflection Questions
Q: What is participating in the Lord's Supper like for you?
A: It is a joyous experience. Taking communion helps me to realize that there is nothing that I can do to earn God's life. I am reminded of God's great love for me and all that He's done in my life. It is a chance for me to respond intimately by taking part symbolically in the body and blood of Jesus Christ.
Q: What do you hope to receive at the Lord's table?
A: When I prepare to take part in communion, I hope that I will have a renewal of my spirit. I don't ever want to be found "faking it." I want to be so real with God and it is my hope that He can lift my head up from my little world and show me a glimpse of eternity with Him and reassure me that I am loved and that I am in love.
The devotional mentioned what is called the "paschal mystery" : Christ has died; Christ is risen; Christ will come again. 1 Corinthians 11:26 says this, "For whenever you eat this bread and drink this cup, you proclaim the Lord's death until he comes." When we take communion, we are not just saying "I believe," rather we are saying that we will partake also in his suffering, his ministry, and his comfort.
We cannot take communion in an unworthy manner. There is a reason that we call it the "Holy Communion" -- it is sacred: set apart by God as a special offering. But the beautiful thing about it is that Jesus has already given it all. When he looked into the eyes of Judas the betrayer, he said to him, "This is my body, which is given for you." We are not deserving of this great sacrifice, this overwhelming love, but God gave it freely for us. Praise God!!!
Reflection Questions
Q: What is participating in the Lord's Supper like for you?
A: It is a joyous experience. Taking communion helps me to realize that there is nothing that I can do to earn God's life. I am reminded of God's great love for me and all that He's done in my life. It is a chance for me to respond intimately by taking part symbolically in the body and blood of Jesus Christ.
Q: What do you hope to receive at the Lord's table?
A: When I prepare to take part in communion, I hope that I will have a renewal of my spirit. I don't ever want to be found "faking it." I want to be so real with God and it is my hope that He can lift my head up from my little world and show me a glimpse of eternity with Him and reassure me that I am loved and that I am in love.
Monday, September 12, 2011
Worship
Today's devotional was on Worship. The book talked about the different false forms of worship. It says that just going to church on Sunday is not good enough to be considered worship. Jesus said, "These people honor me with their lips, but their hearts are far from me." (Matthew 15:8) We can say all that we want about how awesome God is or how thankful we are for the gift of Jesus Christ, but we must be careful that we are not just going through the motions.
The chorus to a song by Matthew West entitled "The Motions" sums this up powerfully:
This speaks to me, because I don't believe that it's OK to just go through the motions or provide "lip-service" as Jesus said. God's great love for us demands that we respond by being real with Him. How can we worship Him simply by saying "Jesus is Lord" and not living it out?
Reflection Questions
Q: How did a particular style of worship -- charismatic, traditional, contemporary, liturgical -- shape you and your image of God?
A: I was mostly raised with a mixture of traditional and contemporary styles of worship. This brings me to see God as someone to show reverence to in response to His awesome power and character, but also to praise Him for His great love and to offer all of myself in response to who He is.
Q: What about God moves you to worship?
A: "The Lord is my shepherd." He guides me, protects me, loves me, lays down his life for me, speaks with me, cares for me, feeds me, holds me, comforts me. What about God wouldn't move me to worship?
The chorus to a song by Matthew West entitled "The Motions" sums this up powerfully:
I don’t wanna go through the motions
I don’t wanna go one more day
Without Your all consuming passion inside of me
I don’t wanna spend my whole life asking
What if I had given everything?
Instead of going through the motions
This speaks to me, because I don't believe that it's OK to just go through the motions or provide "lip-service" as Jesus said. God's great love for us demands that we respond by being real with Him. How can we worship Him simply by saying "Jesus is Lord" and not living it out?
"Therefore, I urge you, brothers and sisters, in view of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God—this is your true and proper worship."
-Romans 12:1
Reflection Questions
Q: How did a particular style of worship -- charismatic, traditional, contemporary, liturgical -- shape you and your image of God?
A: I was mostly raised with a mixture of traditional and contemporary styles of worship. This brings me to see God as someone to show reverence to in response to His awesome power and character, but also to praise Him for His great love and to offer all of myself in response to who He is.
Q: What about God moves you to worship?
A: "The Lord is my shepherd." He guides me, protects me, loves me, lays down his life for me, speaks with me, cares for me, feeds me, holds me, comforts me. What about God wouldn't move me to worship?
Friday, September 9, 2011
Sabbath
Today's subject is the Sabbath. In reading about the Sabbath, I thought that it was interesting that the plan is that for twenty-four hours, we should rest. Why would we rest for a day and not work? Because even God rested. In life, it is easy to get caught up in what we have to do. Between work, school, church, home life and social life, it is difficult to find a balance. There is just not enough time in the week -- and we're supposed to take one seventh of the week out? How are we to get our work done?
That is the problem that the Israelites had. When God gave them manna, they tried to collect it all at once and do as much as they could so that they didn't have to worry about it the next day. But any extra manna would not last through the night. So how about on the Sabbath? Ah, God did an additional miracle every week. On the day before the Sabbath, God commanded them to collect enough for that day and for the Sabbath so that they would not have to work on the Sabbath and they could rest. He made the manna last for two days instead of one.
Is it important that we rest one day a week? Just because God demonstrated it through the Israelites and it is one of the ten commandments given to Moses listed in Exodus 20, does that mean that it still applies today? Yes! This time of rest is more than just a day without work -- it is a time for renewing our commitment to God, seeking His face, remembering who we are and why were made, and remembering who He is and what that does for us.
I liked the last paragraph in today's devotional so much that I think I'll just quote it:
Q: What makes a sabbath day nourishing and replenishing to you?
A: It is refreshing to set aside all of my worries and to follow the command of 1 Peter 5:7 where it says, "Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you." It is good to know that while I may think that I can take care of myself through hard work and diligence, it is truly God who can grant me peace and rest. His plans are without fault, and it is good to remember that when I seek his face and walk in the center of His will, I have nothing to fear:
Q: What happens to you when you go without regular rhythms that allow you to rest in God?
A: When I miss a Sunday or a Wednesday or any other service, I feel that I have missed an opportunity to gather with God's people and worship Him. It's like going without a meal: I'm left hungry and thirsty for God's Word. If I don't go to church or spend time privately in God's Word, my whole week is thrown off. My life is not my own, and when I try to live it by myself, I feel incomplete. God has made us to live in constant communion with Him. When Jesus was hanging on the cross, the pain of the physical punishment wasn't what hurt him the most -- it was the immense separation from God that he was taking on for all people in that moment. He cried, "Father, father, why have you forsaken me?" Being away from God, even for a moment, was the most painful form of suffering that he experienced. I try not to miss any opportunity to gather with God's people, because when I do, I just don't feel complete.
That is the problem that the Israelites had. When God gave them manna, they tried to collect it all at once and do as much as they could so that they didn't have to worry about it the next day. But any extra manna would not last through the night. So how about on the Sabbath? Ah, God did an additional miracle every week. On the day before the Sabbath, God commanded them to collect enough for that day and for the Sabbath so that they would not have to work on the Sabbath and they could rest. He made the manna last for two days instead of one.
Is it important that we rest one day a week? Just because God demonstrated it through the Israelites and it is one of the ten commandments given to Moses listed in Exodus 20, does that mean that it still applies today? Yes! This time of rest is more than just a day without work -- it is a time for renewing our commitment to God, seeking His face, remembering who we are and why were made, and remembering who He is and what that does for us.
I liked the last paragraph in today's devotional so much that I think I'll just quote it:
"Sunday generously hands us hours to look into the eyes of those we love. We have time for loving and being loved. Rhythmically, the sabbath reminds us that we belong to the worldwide family of God. We are citizens of another kingdom -- a kingdom not ruled by the clock and the tyranny of the urgent. God's sabbath reality calls us to trust that the Creator can manage all that concerns us in this world as we settle into his rest."Reflection Questions
Q: What makes a sabbath day nourishing and replenishing to you?
A: It is refreshing to set aside all of my worries and to follow the command of 1 Peter 5:7 where it says, "Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you." It is good to know that while I may think that I can take care of myself through hard work and diligence, it is truly God who can grant me peace and rest. His plans are without fault, and it is good to remember that when I seek his face and walk in the center of His will, I have nothing to fear:
"If God is for us, who can be against us?"
-Romans 8: 31b
Q: What happens to you when you go without regular rhythms that allow you to rest in God?
A: When I miss a Sunday or a Wednesday or any other service, I feel that I have missed an opportunity to gather with God's people and worship Him. It's like going without a meal: I'm left hungry and thirsty for God's Word. If I don't go to church or spend time privately in God's Word, my whole week is thrown off. My life is not my own, and when I try to live it by myself, I feel incomplete. God has made us to live in constant communion with Him. When Jesus was hanging on the cross, the pain of the physical punishment wasn't what hurt him the most -- it was the immense separation from God that he was taking on for all people in that moment. He cried, "Father, father, why have you forsaken me?" Being away from God, even for a moment, was the most painful form of suffering that he experienced. I try not to miss any opportunity to gather with God's people, because when I do, I just don't feel complete.
Wednesday, September 7, 2011
Gratitude
Today's focus was on gratitude. The most profound thing that I discovered in the devotional today was that gratitude does not come from receiving blessings. Blessings may lead us into gratitude but true gratitude comes from knowing who God is and delighting in his love and character. A thankful heart is the result of always knowing that God is worthy of praise -- no matter what your circumstances are.
Most people would admit that they've had "good days" and "bad days," but is that right? The rain falls on the righteous and the unrighteous. Should we accept good things from God and not bad? The difference between a "good day" and a "bad day" is our perception. If we view everything in our life as bad or focus on just the negative things that happen to us, then we will live a hopeless life. But that is not the way it should be! Focus on all of the great things that are happening in the midst of the bad.
Do you remember when Elijah thought that he was the only one who still served God? "Lord, they have killed your prophets and torn down your altars; I am the only one left, and they are trying to kill me." But God knew more than Elijah did. "Yet I reserve seven thousand in Israel--all whose knees have not bowed down to Baal and all whose mouths have not kissed him."
We may find ourselves in a seemingly hopeless situation, but God knows more than we do! Amen. Be glad in the lord. "Rejoice in the Lord always, and again I will say it: rejoice!" Thank God for who he is today. Thank Him for being the same yesterday, today, and tomorrow. Who is greater than our God or more worthy of our thanks and praise?
Reflection Questions
Q: When you feel at the bottom of the food chain and dead last in terms of priority, how do you move toward gratitude?
A: I realize who I am and where my place is. It is entirely within God's fair choice to humble me through whatever means that He would choose. I am not the center of the universe and sometimes I forget that. But when I realize how small and insignificant I am, I am broken. It is here that God can speak to me and teach me His ways -- instead of my own or the ways of the world. When my focus is not on who I am in this world, I see who I am in Him -- a child of God, a brother of Christ, an heir to heaven. "I can do all things through Him who gives me strength." God, use me, humble me, keep me in need of you and let me not trust in my own strength or understanding, but lead me in your ways. Amen
Q: How does your disposition influence your attitude toward gratitude?
A: When my focus is not on who I am in this world, I see who I am in Him -- a child of God, a brother of Christ, an heir to heaven. Then I have a lot to be thankful for. "I can do all things through Him who gives me strength." It is amazing that God has invited us to call upon Him. He is not distant. How can we not be thankful for Him and all that He is?
This is my prayer: God, use me, humble me, keep me in need of you and let me not trust in my own strength or understanding, but lead me in your ways. Amen
Most people would admit that they've had "good days" and "bad days," but is that right? The rain falls on the righteous and the unrighteous. Should we accept good things from God and not bad? The difference between a "good day" and a "bad day" is our perception. If we view everything in our life as bad or focus on just the negative things that happen to us, then we will live a hopeless life. But that is not the way it should be! Focus on all of the great things that are happening in the midst of the bad.
Do you remember when Elijah thought that he was the only one who still served God? "Lord, they have killed your prophets and torn down your altars; I am the only one left, and they are trying to kill me." But God knew more than Elijah did. "Yet I reserve seven thousand in Israel--all whose knees have not bowed down to Baal and all whose mouths have not kissed him."
We may find ourselves in a seemingly hopeless situation, but God knows more than we do! Amen. Be glad in the lord. "Rejoice in the Lord always, and again I will say it: rejoice!" Thank God for who he is today. Thank Him for being the same yesterday, today, and tomorrow. Who is greater than our God or more worthy of our thanks and praise?
Reflection Questions
Q: When you feel at the bottom of the food chain and dead last in terms of priority, how do you move toward gratitude?
A: I realize who I am and where my place is. It is entirely within God's fair choice to humble me through whatever means that He would choose. I am not the center of the universe and sometimes I forget that. But when I realize how small and insignificant I am, I am broken. It is here that God can speak to me and teach me His ways -- instead of my own or the ways of the world. When my focus is not on who I am in this world, I see who I am in Him -- a child of God, a brother of Christ, an heir to heaven. "I can do all things through Him who gives me strength." God, use me, humble me, keep me in need of you and let me not trust in my own strength or understanding, but lead me in your ways. Amen
Q: How does your disposition influence your attitude toward gratitude?
A: When my focus is not on who I am in this world, I see who I am in Him -- a child of God, a brother of Christ, an heir to heaven. Then I have a lot to be thankful for. "I can do all things through Him who gives me strength." It is amazing that God has invited us to call upon Him. He is not distant. How can we not be thankful for Him and all that He is?
This is my prayer: God, use me, humble me, keep me in need of you and let me not trust in my own strength or understanding, but lead me in your ways. Amen
Tuesday, September 6, 2011
Celebration
Today's spiritual discipline was Celebration. The focus of the devotional was on the different ways that we could celebrate God as a form of worship. Most typically, people worship corporately with a tithe of their time and money and singing of praises to God. I find that although worship through song is enjoyable and very good, it seems to be used as a shallow substitute for worshiping God with our lives. Daily devotions are a form of celebratory worship. We meditate on God's word -- which shows its value in our lives -- and we praise God for who He is, which is evident throughout the scripture. We worship by allowing His Word to change our lives, to make us see things differently than the world and to make different choices and participate in different forms of entertainment than the world. If the celebration of who God is and what He has done in our lives does not prompt us to worship Him with every aspect of our lives, then we do not truly understand how completely awesome He is. As it says in James, he who looks intently into the word of God and does not do what it says is like a man who looks in the mirror, and going away completely forgets what he looks like. The celebration of who God is should also be a celebration of who we are in Him, because our lives should reflect God's character and His love.
Reflection Questions
Q: How is your celebration enhanced or curtailed by your ability to remember the past, live in the moment or anticipate the future?
A: My celebration is definitely enhanced by all three of those kinds of thoughts. Remembering the past proves to me that God is a loving God worthy of being praised and that he has a plan for my life. Living in the moment allows me to forget my past mistakes and my inability to control the future and focus on making the conscious decision to live in the center of God's will right now. Anticipating the future excites me because I know that God has a plan for my life and I can't even begin to imagine the amazing things that he wants to do through me as well as how much I will grow closer to Him.
Q: When you see others celebrating God in a way that is new or foreign to you, what goes on in your mind and heart?
A: I am revitalized. It is awesome when people celebrate in different ways because it shows that there is not just one way to worship. It delights me to know that there is no end to God's love, and neither should there be an end to the yearning to seek new ways to praise Him.
Reflection Questions
Q: How is your celebration enhanced or curtailed by your ability to remember the past, live in the moment or anticipate the future?
A: My celebration is definitely enhanced by all three of those kinds of thoughts. Remembering the past proves to me that God is a loving God worthy of being praised and that he has a plan for my life. Living in the moment allows me to forget my past mistakes and my inability to control the future and focus on making the conscious decision to live in the center of God's will right now. Anticipating the future excites me because I know that God has a plan for my life and I can't even begin to imagine the amazing things that he wants to do through me as well as how much I will grow closer to Him.
Q: When you see others celebrating God in a way that is new or foreign to you, what goes on in your mind and heart?
A: I am revitalized. It is awesome when people celebrate in different ways because it shows that there is not just one way to worship. It delights me to know that there is no end to God's love, and neither should there be an end to the yearning to seek new ways to praise Him.
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