“I will never leave you nor forsake you.” How many times have I heard this verse? It seems like every pastor at every youth convention you will ever attend includes this in his message. It’s a given when thinking of our faith’s foundations. If this is so, why do we turn every direction looking for love and acceptance? Despite the fact that our “solutions” never mend our broken hearts, we continue placing ourselves in situations that are destined for failure.
God is a very real being. When we take His love and acceptance for granted, we grieve Him. He made us with a plan and purpose, and when we accept this, we will know God. I know we hear this all the time, but when will it sink in? No, God will not strike you down with a lightning bolt because you sinned. You say that I don’t know what you have done? You’re right. I don’t, but God does, and your sins can never change the way He thinks of you. He will never leave you nor forsake you. I don’t care if you rob a bank, take advantage of someone or commit murder. When you ask for forgiveness, God will forgive you. He’ll take your willingness to accept responsibility for your wrong-doings, and He will help you work through your past. So no matter what your life has been like, give God and His compassion a chance. Let Him show you who He really is. Ask Him to take away the perception you already have of Him and replace it with the reality of His faithfulness. I promise He won’t disappoint you.
Monday, July 5, 2010
Tuesday, June 8, 2010
Just Drive
“Don’t get too close -- WOA! Watch the mailbox! OK, that’s it -- easy now. You got it. Please, God, don’t let me die. OK. Woa, too slow. The people behind us are getting impatient. Go a little faster. Not that much! It’s OK. It’s going to be OK.”
I got my permit last Wednesday, and life has definitely been an adventure since then. After a week of driving in the neighborhood, my dad decided to make me drive on the highway. I did not think I was ready for that. Turns out, I was. Who knew? Granted, I’m not the greatest driver in the world, but I’m alive, right?
Lately I have been thinking about my new turn in the road of life (pun intended). During our hour-long drive I told my dad, “This is like placing a two-month old in the middle of the ocean and telling him to swim.” His answer: “Exactly.”
In real life, God knows what is best for us. Sometimes He even throws us where He desires us despite the fact that we feel incapable. You see, no matter what happens, God is ready to guide-even when we feel like giving up. Honestly, I would rather not drive down Highway 54 at 55 mph, but somewhere down the road, my willingness to step out of my comfort zone will benefit me. The simple fact that I continually trust God to keep me alive will help me when I don’t know what else to do in life. He patiently awaits the day when we look to Him for direction, for that will be the day when we learn how to trust.
“Commit your way to the LORD, Trust also in Him, And He shall bring it to pass” (Psalms 37:5, NKJV).
I got my permit last Wednesday, and life has definitely been an adventure since then. After a week of driving in the neighborhood, my dad decided to make me drive on the highway. I did not think I was ready for that. Turns out, I was. Who knew? Granted, I’m not the greatest driver in the world, but I’m alive, right?
Lately I have been thinking about my new turn in the road of life (pun intended). During our hour-long drive I told my dad, “This is like placing a two-month old in the middle of the ocean and telling him to swim.” His answer: “Exactly.”
In real life, God knows what is best for us. Sometimes He even throws us where He desires us despite the fact that we feel incapable. You see, no matter what happens, God is ready to guide-even when we feel like giving up. Honestly, I would rather not drive down Highway 54 at 55 mph, but somewhere down the road, my willingness to step out of my comfort zone will benefit me. The simple fact that I continually trust God to keep me alive will help me when I don’t know what else to do in life. He patiently awaits the day when we look to Him for direction, for that will be the day when we learn how to trust.
“Commit your way to the LORD, Trust also in Him, And He shall bring it to pass” (Psalms 37:5, NKJV).
Friday, June 4, 2010
The Drive of a Lifetime
“Don’t get too close… WOA! Watch the mailbox!!! Ok, that’s it… easy now. You got it. Please, God, don’t let me die. Ok. Woa, too slow. The people behind us are getting impatient. Go a little faster. Not that much! It’s ok. It’s going to be ok.”
I got my permit last Wednesday, and life has definitely been an adventure since then. After a week of driving in the neighborhood, my dad decided to make me drive on the highway. I did not think I was ready for that. Turns out, I was. Who knew? Granted, I’m not the greatest driver in the world, but I’m alive, right?
Lately I have been thinking about my new turn in the road of life. (Pun intended) During our hour-long drive I told my dad, “This is like placing a two-month old in the middle of the ocean and telling him to swim.” His answer: “Exactly.”
In real life, God knows what is best for us. Sometimes He even throws us where He desires us despite the fact that we feel incapable. You see, no matter what happens, God is ready to guide-even when we feel like giving up. Honestly, I would rather not drive down Highway 54 at 55mph, but somewhere down the road, my willingness to step out of my comfort zone will benefit me. The simple fact that I continually trust God to keep me alive will help me when I don’t know what else to do in life. He patiently awaits the day when we look to Him for direction, for that will be the day when we learn how to trust.
“Commit your way to the LORD, Trust also in Him, And He shall bring [it] to pass.” Psalms 37:5
Monday, May 3, 2010
Do I have to?
Mother’s Day is coming up, and let’s face it: We all have conflict with our mothers at one time or another. But there’s something about motherhood that we as teenagers cannot understand.
You know how our moms always answer our questions with, “Because I said so?” I don’t know about you, but this really frustrates me. I want to know why. As a parent, our mothers realize that we will not understand their explanations. Even if they try to tell us why, we still will not want to do the task at hand. This is part of being a mother: wisely guiding your child even when they think their way trumps your own.
Now, being a teenager is obviously different. When my mom asks me to clean the dishes, I usually grumble and complain. Why do I need to do this? I think to myself. But there’s one thing we always need to remember:
Mom is right.
Even if she messes up, she wisely messes up. It’s not easy to raise kids. Of course the road is going have a few potholes along the way. That being said, she is in authority. She drives us, the passenger, to the places she feels are best. She may even get lost along the way, but we submit to her. We trust that she loves us and only wants what will benefit us. A mother’s heart is not to hurt her children, even though that may happen in the process of the drive.
Don’t let your hurt or anger get in the way of showing your mother the love you have for her. Get creative. Make her something that she can treasure forever. No matter what you do, don’t forget that God has placed us under our mothers. Things will work out under her authority.
“Everyone must submit to governing authorities. For all authority comes from God, and those in positions of authority have been placed there by God. So anyone who rebels against authority is rebelling against what God has instituted, and they will be punished. For the authorities do not strike fear in people who are doing right, but in those who are doing wrong. Would you like to live without fear of the authorities? Do what is right, and they will honor you” (Romans 13:1-3, NLT)
You know how our moms always answer our questions with, “Because I said so?” I don’t know about you, but this really frustrates me. I want to know why. As a parent, our mothers realize that we will not understand their explanations. Even if they try to tell us why, we still will not want to do the task at hand. This is part of being a mother: wisely guiding your child even when they think their way trumps your own.
Now, being a teenager is obviously different. When my mom asks me to clean the dishes, I usually grumble and complain. Why do I need to do this? I think to myself. But there’s one thing we always need to remember:
Mom is right.
Even if she messes up, she wisely messes up. It’s not easy to raise kids. Of course the road is going have a few potholes along the way. That being said, she is in authority. She drives us, the passenger, to the places she feels are best. She may even get lost along the way, but we submit to her. We trust that she loves us and only wants what will benefit us. A mother’s heart is not to hurt her children, even though that may happen in the process of the drive.
Don’t let your hurt or anger get in the way of showing your mother the love you have for her. Get creative. Make her something that she can treasure forever. No matter what you do, don’t forget that God has placed us under our mothers. Things will work out under her authority.
“Everyone must submit to governing authorities. For all authority comes from God, and those in positions of authority have been placed there by God. So anyone who rebels against authority is rebelling against what God has instituted, and they will be punished. For the authorities do not strike fear in people who are doing right, but in those who are doing wrong. Would you like to live without fear of the authorities? Do what is right, and they will honor you” (Romans 13:1-3, NLT)
Friday, April 9, 2010
What Ulterior Motives?
Why do we do what we do? Do we really want what's best for others, or do we want the glory?
I struggle with this. Jesus has clearly shown me what actions I should take. Many times, I complete these actions, but not for His reasons. Sure, I'll pray over you. But am I praying because I care for your deliverance, or am I praying because I want you to see my deep spirituality?
In Matthew, Jesus tells people to beware of wolves in sheep's clothing. In many situations, the wolf may have started out with a bushy lamb tail. This one dishonest motive snowballs into a sense of pride, leading this wolf or teacher to teach for his own benefit. One by one, these motives add the sheep's ears, eyes, legs, and body until the costume completely covers the wolf. At first glance, you would never know that this "sheep" is not who he claims to be.
Recently God started bringing this issue to my attention. I went to an event with a discreet "wolf" teaching. Later on, I realized that I too struggle with pride and ulterior motives, even if I do not stuggle to the extent that this teacher struggles. But I do not have to let this disturbance take me over. I don't have to become the wolf in sheep's clothing just because I started with a little problem. I know what this problem is, and I know the deliverer. Now I have to trust Him. Once I give my entire life to Him, other people's views of my spirituality will no longer matter. They will no longer control my motives. I have the complete ability to live freely for Jesus. I can live out true and pure motives.
"People may be pure in their own eyes, but the LORD examines their motives. Commit your work to the LORD, and then your plans will succeed" (Proverbs 16: 2-3, NLT)
I struggle with this. Jesus has clearly shown me what actions I should take. Many times, I complete these actions, but not for His reasons. Sure, I'll pray over you. But am I praying because I care for your deliverance, or am I praying because I want you to see my deep spirituality?
In Matthew, Jesus tells people to beware of wolves in sheep's clothing. In many situations, the wolf may have started out with a bushy lamb tail. This one dishonest motive snowballs into a sense of pride, leading this wolf or teacher to teach for his own benefit. One by one, these motives add the sheep's ears, eyes, legs, and body until the costume completely covers the wolf. At first glance, you would never know that this "sheep" is not who he claims to be.
Recently God started bringing this issue to my attention. I went to an event with a discreet "wolf" teaching. Later on, I realized that I too struggle with pride and ulterior motives, even if I do not stuggle to the extent that this teacher struggles. But I do not have to let this disturbance take me over. I don't have to become the wolf in sheep's clothing just because I started with a little problem. I know what this problem is, and I know the deliverer. Now I have to trust Him. Once I give my entire life to Him, other people's views of my spirituality will no longer matter. They will no longer control my motives. I have the complete ability to live freely for Jesus. I can live out true and pure motives.
"People may be pure in their own eyes, but the LORD examines their motives. Commit your work to the LORD, and then your plans will succeed" (Proverbs 16: 2-3, NLT)
Tuesday, March 9, 2010
Frazzled Until the End
What happens inside of you when you walk into a job interview? What about when you step on stage to display your talents? People react in different ways. Sometimes people flip out. Everything they have worked at and rehearsed flushes down the drain because of extreme nervousness. Occasionally, they may be flustered but won’t let the nervousness affect his or her performance. However, on occasions, the person performs better because of the anxiety. But what makes the difference between the frazzled interviewee and the person who has everything under control?
Experience plays a key role in how a person deals with nerves. Let’s say that I have never applied for a job, and I decide to inquire about a position with a pizza parlor. When I walk into that office for my first interview, I do not know what to expect. Will the employer be nice? Mean? Harsh? On top of my worries about the employer, I may not be able to anticipate the questions that the boss will ask me. I could simply let the worry from all of these “unknowns” cause me to mess up.
However, if I have already worked three jobs, I have a better idea of what will happen in my interview. I may not know exactly what to expect, but I know that I can handle the situation.
Similarly, when your science teacher mentions faith, how do you feel? Do you feel awkward or like you cannot handle the situation? When someone confronts you about your beliefs, do you answer them, or does your anxiety get in the way? God gave us an amazing gift. If you read the Bible or any Christian magazine, you are bound to hear about it. He sent his only Son — the only one He ever had — just to die for the countless sins that we commit every single day. Jesus was the ultimate sacrifice. I know you’ve heard it a million times, but think about it.
This incredible gift needs to be shared with those around us. You may get nervous at times. So do I. But we can't let it stop us from sharing the love of Christ. They need to hear what you know— and after a few times, I promise you, it will get easier.
“Now where there is remission of these, there is no longer an offering for sin. Therefore, brethren, having boldness to enter the Holiest by the blood of Jesus, by a new and living way which He consecrated for us … let us draw near with a true heart in full assurance of faith, having our hearts sprinkled from an evil conscience and our bodies washed with pure water. Let us hold fast the confession of our hope without wavering, for He who promised is faithful. And let us consider one another in order to stir up love and good works” (Hebrews 10:18-20,22-24, NKJV)
The next time you get an opportunity to share what Jesus has done in your life, push the anxiety to the side. Just remember that the Holy Spirit will guide you and your words and you'll find yourself growing more and more as you get out there.
Experience plays a key role in how a person deals with nerves. Let’s say that I have never applied for a job, and I decide to inquire about a position with a pizza parlor. When I walk into that office for my first interview, I do not know what to expect. Will the employer be nice? Mean? Harsh? On top of my worries about the employer, I may not be able to anticipate the questions that the boss will ask me. I could simply let the worry from all of these “unknowns” cause me to mess up.
However, if I have already worked three jobs, I have a better idea of what will happen in my interview. I may not know exactly what to expect, but I know that I can handle the situation.
Similarly, when your science teacher mentions faith, how do you feel? Do you feel awkward or like you cannot handle the situation? When someone confronts you about your beliefs, do you answer them, or does your anxiety get in the way? God gave us an amazing gift. If you read the Bible or any Christian magazine, you are bound to hear about it. He sent his only Son — the only one He ever had — just to die for the countless sins that we commit every single day. Jesus was the ultimate sacrifice. I know you’ve heard it a million times, but think about it.
This incredible gift needs to be shared with those around us. You may get nervous at times. So do I. But we can't let it stop us from sharing the love of Christ. They need to hear what you know— and after a few times, I promise you, it will get easier.
“Now where there is remission of these, there is no longer an offering for sin. Therefore, brethren, having boldness to enter the Holiest by the blood of Jesus, by a new and living way which He consecrated for us … let us draw near with a true heart in full assurance of faith, having our hearts sprinkled from an evil conscience and our bodies washed with pure water. Let us hold fast the confession of our hope without wavering, for He who promised is faithful. And let us consider one another in order to stir up love and good works” (Hebrews 10:18-20,22-24, NKJV)
The next time you get an opportunity to share what Jesus has done in your life, push the anxiety to the side. Just remember that the Holy Spirit will guide you and your words and you'll find yourself growing more and more as you get out there.
Sunday, January 31, 2010
Just Let It Go
"This is a giant leap of faith
Trusting and trying to embrace
The fear of the unknown
Beyond my comfort zone
I’m letting go
Of the life I planned for me
And my dreams
Losing control
Of my destiny
Feels like I’m falling and that’s what it’s like to believe
So I’m letting go..."
—"Letting Go" from Francesca Battistelli's My Paper Heart album. Check it out at www.francescamusic.com.
Francesca Battistelli sings on letting go of her plans—the plans that she's made for herself in order to tune into God's direction. So often, we try to fix things and people the way we think they should be fixed. But what happens every time? The problem ends up bigger than when we started. Instead of taking matters into our own hands, perhaps we need to let it go. Maybe we even need to get past our fear of the unknown and trust God with all of the things, people and places that occupy our time. But how do we do that?
We get a great picture of how to "let go" from the prophet Ezekiel. His ability to release the day-in-day-out details was directly tied to his relationship with God—it was very tight-knit. He was so close to God that he saw a very descriptive vision of how he was to be led on his path. (See Ezekiel 1.) After the vision, God told Ezekiel, "Son of man, stand on your feet, and I will speak to you." (Ezekiel 2:1,NIV ) Although this doesn’t describe Ezekiel’s problems, it does paint a picture of what happens when we draw close to God.
When we share a deep relationship with our Creator, we can fulfill Mark 8:34, “Whoever desires to come after Me, let him deny himself, and pick up his cross, and follow Me.” Even though we may still have junk in our lives, we follow God. We no longer strive to fix things by our own power; we will totally rely on God to carry everything (ourselves included). We don’t have to worry about tomorrow, because we have the daily renewal of confidence. We will know that no matter what's going down, God has got it covered. Peace and assurance will cover our lives. Through everything we will rest in God’s perfect will. What better place is there to be?
Trusting and trying to embrace
The fear of the unknown
Beyond my comfort zone
I’m letting go
Of the life I planned for me
And my dreams
Losing control
Of my destiny
Feels like I’m falling and that’s what it’s like to believe
So I’m letting go..."
—"Letting Go" from Francesca Battistelli's My Paper Heart album. Check it out at www.francescamusic.com.
Francesca Battistelli sings on letting go of her plans—the plans that she's made for herself in order to tune into God's direction. So often, we try to fix things and people the way we think they should be fixed. But what happens every time? The problem ends up bigger than when we started. Instead of taking matters into our own hands, perhaps we need to let it go. Maybe we even need to get past our fear of the unknown and trust God with all of the things, people and places that occupy our time. But how do we do that?
We get a great picture of how to "let go" from the prophet Ezekiel. His ability to release the day-in-day-out details was directly tied to his relationship with God—it was very tight-knit. He was so close to God that he saw a very descriptive vision of how he was to be led on his path. (See Ezekiel 1.) After the vision, God told Ezekiel, "Son of man, stand on your feet, and I will speak to you." (Ezekiel 2:1,NIV ) Although this doesn’t describe Ezekiel’s problems, it does paint a picture of what happens when we draw close to God.
When we share a deep relationship with our Creator, we can fulfill Mark 8:34, “Whoever desires to come after Me, let him deny himself, and pick up his cross, and follow Me.” Even though we may still have junk in our lives, we follow God. We no longer strive to fix things by our own power; we will totally rely on God to carry everything (ourselves included). We don’t have to worry about tomorrow, because we have the daily renewal of confidence. We will know that no matter what's going down, God has got it covered. Peace and assurance will cover our lives. Through everything we will rest in God’s perfect will. What better place is there to be?
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