Satan Knows Scripture!!!

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Christ, convict, desert, devil, Holy Spirit, Jesus, Satan, temptation, test

Got your attention? The first time that I truly perused Matthew 4:1-11 I knew that I had to start diligently reading and studying my bible. The passage begins with the Holy Spirit leading Christ into the desert to be tempted by the devil. The devil does appear after Christ has fasted for 40 days and nights. He is hungry, and the devil strikes when he believes Christ is in a weakened state. How wrong Satan was on that count! Then the devil quotes scripture, specifically Psalm 91:11-12, urging Christ to use His power to save Himself. Jesus reminds him that it is also written not to put God to the test. Satan tries for a third time and is again rebuked by Christ. Defeated,  Satan leaves Him and Christ is attended by angels. The fact that the devil was able to quote scripture was all I needed to convict me. If Satan knows the Word and can use it to confuse me, I need to know it in order to withstand his attacks. Read this encounter once again and examine yourself honestly. Without scripture to sustain you, how will you ever be able to keep Satan at bay?

Never Stop Learning!

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environment, growth, Instruction, intelligence, knowledge, lazy, learning opportunities, school, vegetate, wisdom

Add to your tree of knowledge!

Summer is drawing to an end. August seems to be a month devoted to preparation for returning to school and the world of reading, writing and ‘rithmetic. We think of preschoolers, elementary grade youngsters, middle school youth, high school students and those entering college. Pictures of young children and youth on their “first” day of school shine on the Facebook posts of proud parents and grandparents. Smiling faces, mostly, looking forward to another year of learning. Although I am a retired teacher, I still look forward to learning opportunities throughout the year. We’re never too old to learn new things and it’s encouraging to accept that fact. Learning experiences are all around us on a daily basis.

Scripture encourages us to continue to grow in wisdom. Proverbs 1:5 counsels to “let the wise listen and add to their learning …” Surely, we can add to our knowledge daily. “Can’t teach an old dog new tricks.” That’s just an excuse to be lazy and vegetate. For Proverbs 1:7 emphasizes that “the fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge, but fools despise wisdom and instruction.” Look forward to each day and strive to achieve growth.

What can I learn today?

Solomon asked the Lord for wisdom, not wealth, and his prayer was answered abundantly. Maybe we adults need to do the same. Ask the Lord what He would like you to learn in the coming year and to guide you in that learning experience. Our world has so much to offer. Look around and be stimulated by your environment. Let us use the intelligence with which the Lord has blessed us and continue to grow mentally. It’s never too late to learn a new skill or even a new language. THINK BIG AND LEARN!

 

April Fool’s Day

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April Fool's Day, fools, intelligent, Proverbs, wisdom

Don’t be fooled by the world today or any day! A fool is defined as a person who acts unwisely or imprudently. It brought to my mind this morning all the political campaigning that we are bombarded with each day. My advice, no matter what season we happen to be in at the time, is to look to the bible. Always look to the bible but in regard to fools Proverbs is truly a wealth of information:

Proverbs 18:2    A fool takes no pleasure in understanding, but only in expressing his opinion.

Proverbs 29:11    A fool gives full vent to his spirit, but a wise man quietly holds it back.

Proverbs 1:7    The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge; fools despise wisdom and instruction.

Proverbs 28:26    Whoever trusts in his own mind is a fool, but he who walks in wisdom will be delivered.

Proverbs 18:7    A fool’s mouth is his ruin, and his lips are a snare to his soul.

Proverbs 17:28    Even a fool who keeps silent is considered wise; when he closes his lips, he is deemed intelligent.

Proverbs 3:35    The wise will inherit honor, but fools get disgrace.

Food for thought? On this day when so many people opt to play practical jokes perhaps we need to think more about saying less, thinking more before we speak and treating one another with love and compassion as Jesus would do. Take the message from Proverbs to heart every day of the year and our world will be a much better place!

Where is the Love?

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bullying, Facebook, Golden Rule, political campaigning, prayer, social media, unfriending

Social media is a measure of the state of our present society. There’s a concern for the future of Facebook because of the recent posts and “unfriending” attributed to the political campaigning. I don’t doubt that at all. I remember the advice I grew up with that one should never discuss politics or religion at family gatherings. Perhaps we should move that “rule” to include Facebook friends and family.

I thought this morning how happy I am that I am no longer teaching. How in the world do teachers try to instill values in their students when ugliness runs rampant on social media?  I have seen posts that bring tears to my eyes and news reports of political debates that look like classroom bullying. I will never post my political views on Facebook or elsewhere. They are my private thoughts and the candidate I choose to vote for will be decided after much prayer.

Our society needs a reality check. I’d like to pose a few questions that seem so obvious to me. Here goes:

What does perspiration or drinking water have to do with presidential qualifications?  Or the application of make-up?

Why  would a veteran, who has served his country, be removed from a political rally for asking a civil question? Why would he be booed by the crowd?

Why do people post derogatory ethnic slurs just because they don’t like a candidate or the President? How do we teach children not to bully when supposedly intelligent adults are doing that?

How do Christians succumb to such posting?

Is it not our duty as Christians to follow the advice of Paul so eloquently stated in Philippians 2:1-4? “Therefore if you have any encouragement from being united with Christ, if any comfort from His love, if any common sharing in the Spirit, if any tenderness and compassion, then make my joy complete by being like-minded, having the same love, being one in spirit and of one mind. Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves, not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of others.”

We need to think more about the image we want to reflect to the children of today. How can we stop bullying when we do that very thing in our posts or laugh at the pitifully derogatory comments exchanged in debates? It’s time to remember common decency and the Golden Rule. Maybe we all need to go back to school or Sunday School. Let’s think more about love, about Jesus, about smiles and hugs, and push hate speech out of our minds and vocabulary!

 

 

 

 

 

Fostering Love on Facebook!

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abuse, comments, criticism, encourager, Facebook, grammar, handwriting, love

Well, it’s two days after Valentine’s Day! Are we still all about love? I have complained at times about some of the posts on Facebook to my sweet husband, Jim. He’s always the first and usually the last one to hear my remarks. I try not to be too judgmental but one I saw over the weekend really touched my heart. As a retired teacher, I feel I still have the duty to speak up when I notice abuse, be it verbal or physical, of a child. I can’t stress the importance of guarding what we write in comments on Facebook or anywhere else regarding children, especially when it involves someone else’s child.

The post which bothered me had a page from a fourth grader writer pictured on it. The child had written a review of a musical composition he had listened to that was entitled “Sleep.” Evidently, the child’s teacher had sent the review to the author of the music. The composer made the comment that he would keep this negative review on his wall as a reminder of how his work had been received by a child. What caught  my eye was the caustic comment made by a Facebook user that the child’s work was poorly written and that he should work on his handwriting and grammar rather than critique a musical work. I took offense and reread the child’s work. It appeared to me to be a page torn from a daily journal kept by the child. If so, it was the child’s response to the way he heard the music and was for his eyes only. Children are encouraged to write in journals to express themselves and they do not go back and proofread this work nor does the teacher. Phonetic spellings are acceptable on work of this nature. BUT this child’s work did not need to be criticized by a Facebook viewer. Imagine how that poor child would feel if he saw the negative comment this adult had made regarding his writing!

I can still remember the verbal criticism my early attempts at drawing a house evoked from my dad over 60 years ago. I know he loved me, but he remarked that the house I’d drawn was all wrong! He was a carpenter and also drew plans for houses. My work was out of proportion and truly ill-composed as most attempts by an eight year old would be. I tried harder and my work improved but I still recall that comment and how much it hurt me. It was like a slap across the face that I took to heart. It also helped me develop a dislike for drawing, which I still avoid at all costs.

Honestly, I have seen many posts that were not grammatically correct posted by adults on Facebook, but I would never think to mention it. Why hurt someone’s feelings unnecessarily? Isn’t it wonderful that people are writing more? Be an encourager, a Timothy to others, especially children. There’s a place for correction and it’s not on Facebook. We all make mistakes and sometimes computers do it for us. My kindle likes to change words to what it thinks I mean! There are times I miss the errors and this embarrasses me. We need to think more about one another’s feelings and how we would like to be treated.

James’ words regarding speech and the tongue apply just as much to what we write or to what we post. “The tongue also is a fire, a world of evil among the parts of the body.” (James 3:6)  It only takes a small spark in the form of a hurtful remark to damage a child. Let us remember that children are naturally creative, but a thoughtless comment can stifle that desire to create.

Dear Lord, Guide us in the comments we make on Facebook and other social media. Let us reflect the love You shower on us daily as we share our thoughts with one another. May we encourage others rather than criticize. You are the Ultimate Judge not any one of us. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen

 

 

 

 

 

 

What Gift Are You Giving?

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Christmas gifts, frankincense, gold, King Herod, king of the Jews, Magi, Messiah, myrrh, wise men

Matthew 2:11 And when they were come into the house, they saw the young child with Mary his mother, and fell down, and worshiped him; and when they had opened their treasures, they presented unto him gifts: gold, and frankincense and myrrh.

 

During the Christmas season,  we spend much of our time trying to discover and then locate the perfect gift for each person on our list. We want to touch that person’s heart and show our love for him or her by selecting that special item.

This year I couldn’t help but think back to that first Christmas so very long ago. The Magi or wise men brought three gifts to the Christ child, but the real story has been corrupted  by artistic license. That is, there were three gifts and so we assume there were three wise men. In actuality we don’t really know the number of wise men who traveled to see this special child. They also didn’t arrive shortly after the baby’s birth in the stable. Rather they came when the Christ child was probably about two or three years old.

We need to focus on the fact that they brought their gifts to honor  “the king of the Jews” or the Messiah of whom they had heard tell. Their search led them to question King Herod. They knew this child was destined for greatness. BUT THEY BROUGHT HIM GIFTS! These were gifts fit for royalty. Now I ask you as I asked myself as I studied this scripture, “What will you bring as a gift for Christ Jesus?” Think of what you can do regarding service or Bible study or less time on social media. I want to find that special gift that will truly please my Lord and Savior. I believe He’s leading me to deeper study of His Word and more sharing via my blog. I know it will become clear as I search with all my heart. May the Lord bless all our efforts to find the special gift we can give Him this year.

 

Watch What You Say!

Tags

blessings, coincidence, divine guidance, fortunate, omnipotence, providence, vocabulary

Colossians 1:16 For by Him all things were created, in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or dominions or rulers or authorities-all things were created through Him and for Him.

As a believer, I try to be careful in the words I use when speaking or writing. Words like lucky and coincidence have been exiled from my vocabulary. If I receive an unexpected benefit, it’s not because of luck but because the Lord has seen fit to bless me. It may be as simple as the sight of a hummingbird or as mind boggling as the avoidance of an accident. The shooting two weeks ago outside our motel window could have taken Jim’s life or mine. We weren’t lucky because we were spared. No, indeed, the Lord protected us. We were blessed with the gift of life continuing for both of us!

A few years ago, I heard a pastor mention a coincidence that occurred in his life. I was so disappointed to hear that word. My faith in God’s omnipotence assures me that coincidences do not exist. God is in control and things do not just mysteriously come together. Let’s look at Webster’s definition for coincidence first: a situation in which events happen at the same time in a way that is not planned or expected, or the occurrence of events that happen at the same time by accident but seem to have some connection. Really? When we needed a plumber to stop our leak and I called asking a friend for the name of a plumber, it was no coincidence that he was visiting with a relative who was a plumber. I saw God’s hand in the occasion. It was providence! That is, it was due to God’s divine guidance or care (again from Webster’s).

Feeling lucky or fortunate today? Not I! As a child of God, I am truly blessed and know that He is in control. I am in His Hands and He will not allow me to be tested beyond my ability to endure.

Carry Your Concealed Weapons Daily!

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Christ's death on the cross, comforting scripture, concealed weapons, darkness vs. light, dealing with tragedy, double-edged sword, Encouragement, Fear, Holy Spirit, landmines of life, mind of Christ, reassurance, Satan, weaknesses

Hebrews 13:5-6 …  be content with what you have, because God has said, “Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you.”

Feeling alone or discouraged with life? We all have days when things aren’t going right. Sometimes it’s not just a disappointing day, it’s a season of disruption and unrest. That’s the time when we are most likely to succumb to the lures of Satan.

For me the night has always been the most difficult time. The darkness seems to envelop me. I can remember as a child being afraid to go down into the basement alone, but only at night. It was okay if my mom or dad was with me or even just a friend my own age. There was a light at the top of the stairs, but that didn’t help if I allowed the fear to begin. It’s absolutely ridiculous, but I can still feel a shakiness in my being if I am ruminating over a problem and it’s nighttime! Quoting Psalm 46:10 “Be still and know that I am God,” is all the reassurance I need to get me back on track. God is in control and all is right with the world!

Satan knows our weaknesses and when the moment is ripe for an attack. When we’ve lost a loved one or had a life altering event occur, he is waiting to pounce and devour us. But we are children of the Light! Christ said in John 8:12 ” I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.” As believers, we have powerful weapons to enable us to walk through the landmines of life, but we have to be aware of them and use them.

When Christ died on the cross for our sins, He didn’t leave us. He gave us the Holy Spirit to be our guide and comforter, living within us. Look at the the Holy Spirit as your backbone, giving you strength when you feel ready to cave in to the pressures of this world. Go to God’s Word, a powerful double-edged sword, to cut through the worldly mire that surrounds us. How can anyone attack, be it Satan or a worldly foe, when we have the power, the mind of Christ, within us if we but use it? Arm yourself with scripture. Satan knows scripture (Luke 4:1-13) and he twists it to suit himself. Study God’s Word so you can be prepared to use it when you are going through a valley of indecision or feeling alone, deserted by friends and family. God will never leave or forsake you. He is the perfect Father who loves us unconditionally and has given us the tools to walk through this life on earth. Carry this verse with you from Psalm 119:105 “Your Word is a lamp for my feet, a light on my path.”

We need to remind and encourage ourselves as well as our brothers and sisters in Christ. Alone? It can never happen if you love the Lord your God with all your heart, mind and soul. Be prepared to fight back when doubt or fear tries to creep in and consume you. Carry and use your concealed weapons each and every day!

Still Reading Horoscopes?

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astrological signs, astrology, conviction, excuses, Facebook, fortune telling, horoscopes, psychics, refuge, scriptural advice

I ask that question because I used to check horoscopes daily in the newspaper. I would read mine and then the ones for those I loved. Supposedly I was doing this for entertainment since I didn’t believe in their accuracy. At least, that’s what I told myself. Then I was blessed to become part of a large bible-based community bible study. Our leader shared with us that following horoscopes was contrary to God’s will. Wow! I hadn’t any idea about that fact since my knowledge of scripture then was very limited. I became convicted when I read Deuteronomy 18:10-13 (ESV). “There shall not be found among you anyone who burns his son or daughter as an offering, anyone who practices divination or tells fortunes or interprets omens, or a sorcerer or a charmer or a medium or a necromancer or one who inquires of the dead, for whoever does these things is an abomination to the Lord.”

After reading God’s Word regarding fortune telling, which is an accurate description of what horoscopes attempt to do, I tried to continue on with my folly. I rationalized that since I didn’t believe in it, it was pure entertainment! Slowly I came to understand that this “entertainment” was first and foremost an offense to God. What was I thinking? It was also a waste of my time. How much more could I accomplish by devoting this daily time to prayer, in building my relationship with My Heavenly Father? Only God knows the future, and it is His business, not ours! I was convicted!

This past month I received two posts on Facebook by Christian friends regarding horoscopes. I wondered why they bothered to post something that was opposed to our Christian beliefs. Perhaps, like me a few years ago, they were unaware. I decided to comment on the posts, saying that I didn’t participate in reading horoscopes because it was against scriptural advice. No response was made by either person, but I have not received any more sharings regarding horoscopes and astrological signs. Praise God!

Still not convinced? Christ told us in Matthew 6:26 (NIV) “… do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.” Rather than worry about things we have no control over, we are advised in 1 Peter 5:7 “Cast all your anxiety on Him because He cares for you.” That’s good advice, scriptural advice. We need to take it to heart and take our troubles to him, lay them at the foot of the cross and leave them there. Remember God is in control. He has all the peace we will ever need. He is our refuge. Take everything to Him in prayer and relax in His arms.

Accepting Instruction

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apologizing, Christ's death on the cross, Christian walk, forgiveness, learning, spiritual growth, United Methodist Women, wisdom

Proverbs 19:20 Listen to advice and accept instruction, and in the end you will be wise.

We are never too old to learn something new, but in order to do so, we must be willing learners. In our Christian walk, we also have to be sure that both the advice and instruction that we heed is based on biblical truth. If we allow our hearts to become hardened, we will not even accept advice that is offered in true Christian love. I shared my frozen heart regarding forgiveness in my post of March 17, 2015 entitled “Can You Afford Not to Forgive?”

Recently I was reminded of another example, this time, of a dear friend’s unforgiving attitude. This dear lady was a respected member of our United Methodist Women and had been recognized as the Honoree of the year for her service at our church. I was president of the unit, so it was I whom she called with her predicament. As Honoree for the previous year, it was her duty to present the pin to the Honoree chosen for the new year. She explained to me that this lady had offended her at a bible study some years ago, and she just could not bring herself to present the pin. She went on to explain that the woman had called to apologize the same evening that the offense had occurred and that was proof that she meant to be offensive! I was astounded and unsure what to say. This dear soul then added that her sister had told her she was in error, needed to forgive, and present the award. I told her I would take over the presentation, but I prayed that she might change her mind. She didn’t!

I share this story because it so clearly illustrates the refusal of Godly advice. Christ counseled we are to forgive “seventy times seven” without any conditions or reservations. How long do we harbor a hurt and let it grow or fester? The more we nurse it the bigger the toll it takes upon us. When we release that hurt, forgive and move on, we regain our health, both physically and spiritually. We need to keep our hearts open to loving as God and Christ love us; God who gave His Only Son to die on the cross to pay our sin debt in full, and Christ, the perfect sacrifice, for all our sins; Christ who said on the cross, “Father, forgive them for they know not what they do.” How can we not forgive when we all have been forgiven so very much?

Opening our hearts and minds to Christ’s instruction is something we need to do in order to stay healthy and live lives dedicated to our Lord and Savior. No none of us is perfect. We need to remember the forgiveness granted to us through God’s grace and when counseled to do so by fellow believers, we need to accept their instruction. It will lead us on the path to greater wisdom and spiritual growth.