Devotions'15

In addition to finishing up last year's daily Bible reading, I will also start using "My Utmost for His Highest" by Oswald Chambers.  I was chatting with one of the Worship Team members and she was yet another one of those who said that this devotional has been life-changing.    SO, I will go through it once again; and see if this time around, I may gain new insights that I haven't before....

19-Jan:

• Phil 1:20 was the verse used to point to giving "my utmost for His highest".  It was pointed out that there is a relationship between our giving our best to God and our need to seek holiness and "in nothing..shall be ashamed", so that in boldness we can glorify God.
• "Worship is giving God the best that He has given you."  That's an interesting definition of worship.  It is similar to the one I've often used - worship is ascribing to God the worth He deserves. We are encouraged to "pitch our tents" where we can have quiet time with Him.  "The lasting value of our public service for God is measured by the depth of the intimacy of our private times of fellowship and oneness with Him"  This would be excellent to expand upon and tie in with the passage on David not wanting to offer to God anything that cost him nothing; or the example of Jesus to spend time alone with the Father as an integral part of His ministry.

Devotions'14-15 (cont)

This year, I'm not going to start another read-through-the-Bible devotional like I have the past couple of years.   But, I will try to finish up the rest of the "Life Principles Daily Bible".   Based on my sharing about how "being still" is so important to living joyfully, I wanted to have an entry for Devotions so that this area would not be neglected this year.  I will use this as a continuation of the Jan 2, 2014 entry for recording notes for this year.

2-Jan:

• Isaiah 59:2 clearly shows how our sins can affect our relationship with God:  "But your iniquities have separated you from your God; your sins have hidden His face from you, so that He will not hear."  In contrast, for their obedience, God said to the Rechabites in Jeremiah 35:19, they "shall not lack a man to stand for Me always"
• God's faithfulness, despite His People's unfaithfulness, is once again shown in His declaration in Isaiah 5:18, that despite the discipline that will be coming, "even in those days" that will not be completely destroyed.  The "remnant" is evidence of God's love and faithfulness.
• Col 4:17 says to take heed to the ministry we have been called to, that we may fulfill it - that's pretty clearly stated!
• Jeremiah 15:1 gives honor to Moses and Samuel (even though neither were "perfect"), in contrast to the unfaithfulness of the people.  I want to be counted among those who are counted as righteous, like Moses and Samuel  
• Jeremiah 17:8 very much reminds me of Psalm 1, of a tree firmly rooted that has no fear of the heat and drought, but will continue to be green bear fruit.   What a beautiful picture.
• In Jeremiah 21:5, God said that He Himself would war against His People, even in anger and wrath and great indignation for their sin and lack of repentance, not heeding the warnings of the prophets.  May I never cause God to be that angry against me.  Amen.
• 2 Thes 1:9 actually clearly states that there is "the penalty of eternal destruction, away from the presence of the Lord and from the glory of His power,"  contrary to those who say there is no eternal hell.  And the worst part of it, is eternal separation from God
• Jer 26:24 shows God's protection of Jeremiah from death before his time
• Jer 29:10-14 is used as the passage to remind us that "disappointments are inevitable but discouragement is a choice".   God is for us, we have hope, and we can always go to Him in prayer.
• Jer 33:3 "Call to Me and I will answer you, and I will tell you great and mighty things, which you do not know."  - God promises to answer our prayers; and He can reveal to us "great and mighty things".  Reminds me of my focus for 2015, which seems to indicate that prayer plays a part in "telling of the wondrous works of God"
• Jer 33:20-22 was confusing when I first read it; but, knowing that God is faithful even when His people are not; re-reading carefully, and looking up supplemental material; what this verse is actually saying is that His covenant is as sure as day and night

JOY

Last year, God had taught me much through my journey on finding Joy in Living.  At church yesterday, I had a chance to share about this in the worship ministry team devotional time.  In preparing for the devotional, I was able to expand on some of the things I had learned about Joy.

The key verse is Psalm 16:11b  "In Your Presence is fullness of Joy" showing that Joy is directly related to the Presence of God in our lives. But, the question that may be raised is, but since God is always present in our lives, why are we not always JOYFUL?   It is because there are so many things that can rob us of our JOY by obscuring the presence of God in our lives.   So, when we are not JOYFUL, it is not because God is not present (even though it may feel like it, because during times of difficulty and sadness, a common question is "Where are you God?"); the truth is that God is always present, but there is something that is getting in the way of our awareness of His Presence.

Ways that help us to live more joyfully can be categorized into three areas:

1. Walk in the Spirit or Abide in Christ - Joy is a fruit of the Spirit, so we can more effectively bear the fruit of joy when we are walking in the spirit and abiding in Christ, as "branches in the vine".  So, things that can get in the way of walking in the Spirit are the Flesh and things of the World; because they are in constant conflict with the Spirit.   Therefore, sin is a major thief of JOY because it hurts our fellowship with God and cause us, like Adam and Eve after the Fall, to want to hide from the presence of God.  Related to that, if we try to find our joy in anything or anyone other than God, at most it can only offer us temporary happiness which is a poor substitute for true joy that can only be found in Christ
2. Be Still - We need to intentionally seek to be in the presence of God, like in prayer, devotions, or worship.  In the story of Mary and Martha, while Martha was busy running around making preparations, Mary was able to ENJOY the presence of God by sitting at Jesus's feet.   So, even if we are doing good things like serving, if we are too busy that it makes us forget Who we are doing it for or distracts us from spending time in His Presence, this too can "steal" our JOY
3. Give Thanks - Throughout Scripture, Thanksgiving is very much related to JOY.  When we see God's Hand at work, how He has blessed us, the things He has done, we cannot help but offer praise and thanks, which in turn fills us with joy.   Similarly, when we are feeling down, we we start singing praises or giving thanks, it will lift our spirits

Avoid the things that can rob us of JOY and focus on the areas that can help us to live more Joyfully.  And remember that since Joy is related to the presence of God in our lives, that is why we as Christians are able to have JOY no matter what our circumstances because God IS always present.   We truly can "rejoice in the LORD always" no matter what.

19-Jan:  1 John 1 talks about making our JOY complete through fellowship with the Father and His Son, Jesus Christ; which is another example of JOY being related to the presence of God in our lives.

John 4:46-5:15

This passage depicts Jesus as the HEALER.  He performs His second sign in Galilee by healing a nobleman's son.   And, then at the Pool of Bethesda in Jerusalem, He heals the lame man.   In both of these situations, Jesus demonstrated the power of His WORD in healing, by just speaking or commanding it.  For the nobleman, he showed faith in Jesus's ability to heal by not rushing home from Cana to Capernaum right away.  And then his whole household believed, which showed that they were "ripe for harvest".  For the lame man, Jesus asks the key question "Do you want to get well?"   That is the question we all must answer, more so spiritually.   Jesus chose to heal this man, who neither asked Him for healing nor even knew Who He was initially.  Yet, Jesus showed compassion, and even found him afterwards to ensure that he was healed not only physically but also spiritually.  We once again encounter the legalistic Jewish leaders who miss the miracle of the healing by focusing on the breaking of their traditions and burdens on the Sabbath.   They missed out on the Joy of being in the presence of God Himself by being blinded by their legalistic adherence to their religion.

12-Jan:  "Do you want to get well?"  is a question that we must all answer at some point in our lives.  We were all inflicted with the fatal disease of sin, and Jesus is the only one Who can heal.
This passage also showed the sovereignty of God - Jesus chose the man to be healed; but, also our response, the man had to want to be healed and to respond in obedience by taking up his pallet and walking.
Legalism focuses on works and the Law which does not save, in contrast to the finished work of salvation by Grace of Christ on the cross.

Movies This Year

I've already watched a few movies this year, having started with my traditional "Facing the Giants".

• Storm Rider was actually a really nice surprise.   I like horses, but, I wasn't sure what I would think of this movie; and I ended up really liking it a lot.   Jacob Buster who played Jordan in the movie was really adorable; and it was not hard to see the big caring heart that uncle Sam had.  It was cute to see how at the end, it looked like Sam, Jody, Dani, and Jordan would become a family; and how everything worked out

• Fallen Angel was a touching story with a nice reunion ending.  The little girl in the movie was so loveable.   There were still some sad parts; but, it was a nice movie overall.

• November Christmas - Wow, what a tear-jerker of a movie.  It brings tears to see the strength of the little girl fighting cancer, the strain on the parents, but also the way it brought those around her together.  It was kind of nice that the start of the movie allows us to know that the little girl was able to win her battle against cancer as she told her story of "magic".  The most touching was when the girl came home from the hospital and the whole town had decorated for Christmas even though it was November; and they were all gathered at her house to welcome her home.  How special.
• Coffee Shop - This really was "UPlifting enterainment".  It had a nice story line, with a good outcome, and a good-looking cast.  I also liked how they were able to weave in references to helping support needs in Africa, quoting Scripture, etc.
• A Mile in His Shoes - I watched this movie again and was once more impressed with the Christian themes and the example of Mickey, who despite his autism is able to be an example of character and wisdom to all those around him.   It was neat to see the healing and growth the characters in the movie experienced.  This is definitely a movie worth watching with like a small group from church
• The Climb - This was actually a really good movie with a clear gospel message.   One of the main characters went from angry and arrogant to humble and recognizing his need, giving his life to Christ at the end and taking up the responsibility to be a father to his baby and husband to his girlfriend.  And the Christian main character exemplified Christ by being and example, standing up for what was right, and ultimately giving his life for his friend.
• The Valley of Light - This was a movie with sad overtones, but had examples kindness and love in it.  One quote in the movie stood out - the one in which Eleanor said "Maybe you'll find a valley where no one has suffered a broken heart, but I would wager to say that was a loveless place."  That's a loaded statement, but essentially says that when we love, we do risk vulnerability; and if you try to protect yourself from heartbreak, then you miss out on experiencing love.  It was nice that the main character stopped moving from place to place trying to "stay one step ahead of the pain and grief" and found peace and love in the Valley of Light.   It really was so sad that they lost the loveable little boy Matthew; but, it seemed to be a turning point for Noah.
• The Miracle Worker - Reviews say that this remake is not as emotionally gripping as the original; but, since it is still based on the real-life amazing story of Helen Keller and Anne Sullivan, it is still a motivational movie.  
• Rose Hill - This was a movie that demonstrated true love of family.   It was so neat to see the pack of orphaned thieving boys turn into really loving protective brothers who were able to succeed in the wild west.  
• Cupid & Cate - I'm not sure whether or not I liked the movie.  I would agree with a comment that was made about not really "warming up" to the female lead character, because she wasn't very likeable.  In contrast, Harry's character, the one she married, was very likeable.  And, the family relationships seemed to be realistic, with all the good and the bad.  It was especially nice to see that the sisters despite differences in personality and normal sibling conflicts did demonstrate that they truly cared about one another and were there for each other through difficult times.  
• Bridal Wave - This seemed to fit in more with the typical Hallmark movie.  The lead female character realizes that she was engaged to a person she didn't love and marries the person she meets and does fall in love with.  It's one of those movies that make me wonder if I could ever meet someone that way, when I least expect it.  Jaclyn Smith definitely looked like she had work done, and she played the snobbish future mother-in-law quite well.
• A Novel Romance - There were some things in this movie that didn't totally make sense and weren't that believable.   But, overall, it had me rooting for the male lead character the whole time; and it was nice to see the great support from and relationship with his publicist.  What I really liked was how the main characters met and how the male lead pursued and was so clear about how he felt.  And, we are glad that at the end, he finds who he is and writes a book he is proud of.

Knowing God

As I browsed through my bookshelves for a book to read to start off the New Year and to live out Phil 4:8, I decided to re-read J.I. Packer's "Knowing God".   I had read this back in college, so it's been awhile; but, I thought it would be good since it fit in with my class Bible study series.

Some of the statements and points from the author that stand out are:

• Going through life without knowing God is like being blind-folded and having no sense of direction.   That's a really good word-picture and reminder of why it is knowing God is such an important pursuit
• We shouldn't seek to know God merely for the knowledge about God, but, more so for knowing God Himself that we may grow in relationship to Him

New Year 2015

Still with one foot hanging onto Christmas and the other being dragged towards the New Year, it's time to reflect on this last year and look forward to what God will be doing in the next.

I've decided that I will go ahead with the focus of  "Telling of His Wonderful Deeds" reflecting Psalm 40:5 "O LORD my God, you have performed many wonders for us. Your plans for us are too numerous to list. You have no equal. If I tried to recite all your wonderful deeds, I would never come to the end of them."   It will stretch me; but more importantly, it will hopefully bring glory to God for all that He has done.

So, what better way to start than to reflect on what He has done this year.  As I look back on the year, there are a few things that stand out:

• In some ways, my friendships have been shaken and put through the fire, and I have learned from the LORD what true friendship should look like.  What started as painful and feeding my fear of rejection, turned out to be life-changing growth and knowledge.   Praise God for the mysterious ways in which He works.  Best of all, I can appreciate "what a friend we have in Jesus"!
• I can't think of this past year and not have the work "remodel" pop into mind.   I was finally able to get started on what I have been planning for pretty much the last seven years.   The time was finally right; and I thank God for helping me through it all so far.   It didn't go perfectly; there were quite a few challenges, and I had to learn and grow a lot through this as well.  But, it's all part of life, and I'm pleased with the progress that has been made.   I thank God for His protection and His guidance.
• While things at work and church, and with family have not really changed in any dramatic ways; I will not take for granted what He is doing in those areas either.   He has blessed me, given me the privilege of serving Him; and I believe that He is using me.   
• I did try to live out my area of focus on "Loving Others".    My hope is that others were able to see God's reflection through my life, as I tried to love them as He has loved me.  Amen.

2-Jan:  For New Years, I once again watched "Facing the Giants".  It really is an inspirational and motivating movie.  This time, I made note of some of the stand out lines from the movie:

• We should "prepare the fields" to receive the rains that we are praying for God to send, whenever He may send them in His Time
• Our actions always follow our beliefs
• It's not about us, God put is here to honor Him with our actions and attitudes; so we are to give God our best and all we have and leave the results to Him
• Stay humble but confident
• God can do whatever He wants however He wants

I also watched a movie on Dietrich Bonhoeffer.  I respect him for his sacrifice and martyrdom; but, while I expected to be inspired by the story of his life and actions, his being the author of "The Cost of Discipleship", the movie may have recounted most of the facts, but it didn't seem to capture the heart.   Though, it was interesting that while I expected a strict and rigid theologian, it was nice to see the movie depict Bonhoeffer as a charismatic fun happy person.  Off hand, I probably wouldn't be able to quote anything he said; but, overall, to me, he would represent someone who stood firm in his convictions to the end.

That is something I would do well to follow.   I must admit that I ended the year badly in 2014; and I felt that in the New Year, I had to ask God to pull me out of the dark pit I had stumbled into.  I feel like I'm back on the right path, and have new resolution to not be knocked down and pulled off the path again; but, I was reminded in devotions last night from 1 Timothy 4:8, that it's not so much discipline that should be our focus, but rather godliness.   Laboring and striving are not end goals in themselves; it is for the purpose of being holy just has He is Holy.  That is my hope, goal, and desire - to be like Christ.

4-Jan:  The sermon today was so apropo.  We were reminded that David was not doing what he was supposed to be doing at the time he fell into sin with Bathsheba; and that in this story, it is Uriah who exemplifies what it means to be a "man after God's own heart" and who stands firm.  Pastor Rory encouraged us to repent of our past failures and to lay all our brokenness literally at the foot of the cross.  I do commit to walk in His Ways and to seek purity and holiness in my life.
My friend and her family came to visit today.   I must admit that she and her husband do much by way of helping me stay current on technology.   It was nice of her with her kids to pray for me right before she left.  That was special.   I also do see that with all her kids and the demands on her time, it is hard to have "quality" time with her.   I will just keep her in prayer and utilize what time we do have and to continue to share through whatever interactions we can.

5-Jan:  So, what are some changes planned for this year?   Well, I will get back into reading more Christian books.  And, I will make it a goal to play more piano and memorize at least one more piece of music.  I also plan to finish as much remodeling inside as possible, which would include kitchen, bathroom, painting, and carpet.  Hopefully, by the end of the year, the only thing left will be the backyard.  And then, I can use my home as a place to invite others over and to practice hospitality.

12-Jan:  Something that God seems to have been simmering in mind lately is starting to boil.  Various conversations I've had with the single women in my class have touched my heart with the idea that they may need a special ministering to.   As God has taught me so much and brought me so far in not only being content in my singleness, but actually being able to say that I can rejoice in the benefits of being single; it may be something that I can share with these other women or at least to be an example to them.  Most of my current areas of ministry are things that I have being serving in for awhile now; so, maybe it is time to "stretch" into new areas.   After I finish remodeling, I may be able to have these "singles" over more often, like near holidays (e.g. day after Thanksgiving, New Years, etc) or just for movie night or even just tea.  This is definitely something that I will be praying about.
Some additional thoughts are maybe to start a community group for singles.  We can get-together with a focus on fellowship with a lighter emphasis on teaching.   We could watch a movie with a Christian theme and discuss it afterwards; have a dinner with a topic for conversation (e.g. apologetics question); have a lesson on an interesting topic (e.g singleness, solitude); or go visit a place with a spiritual reference we can discuss afterwards (e.g. Reagan Library, Art Museum and then pull paintings from Bible from internet and discuss, etc)