About a year after I decided to get off the proverbial fence and truly surrender all of my heart, my plans, my will, my entire life to Christ Jesus I began experiencing persecution in my life and ministry. I had never really experienced persecution for my faith, until I decided to live a more consecrated life and start walking in my calling. The Holy Spirit reminded me and led me to Matthew 5:10-12,
10 God blesses those who are persecuted for doing right, for the Kingdom of Heaven is theirs.
11 “God blesses you when people mock you and persecute you and lie about you and say all sorts of evil things against you because you are my followers. 12 Be happy about it! Be very glad! For a great reward awaits you in heaven. And remember, the ancient prophets were persecuted in the same way.
After reading this I was prompted to write in the margin of my bible, “Be encouraged Lisa, it’s just the beginning.”
It’s the beginning of a new year and He has brought me right back to this subjection of persecution by bringing me to 2 Timothy 3:12 which says,
“Yes, and everyone who wants to live a godly life in Christ Jesus will suffer persecution”.
Showing posts with label Enemies. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Enemies. Show all posts
Tuesday, January 4, 2011
Wednesday, August 26, 2009
Sand Paper People Test
A while back I wrote a posting called Sand Paper People. It was about those abrasive people that God uses in our lives to smooth out our rough edges. He does this by showing us through our reactions to them some of our own attitudes, thoughts, and issues of the heart that we need to allow the Holy Spirit to work on. I now call this testing ‘The Sand Paper People Test’. Lol..The ‘Sand Paper People Test’ is meant to build godly character in us. (James 1:2-4) This test of dealing with people who are rude, arrogant, insensitive, negative, religious, self-righteous, or just straight foolish is meant to humble us and help produce the fruits of patience, self-control, goodness, faithfulness, and gentleness; which then results in the fruit of joy, peace, and love. (Galatians 5:22-23) Recently the Lord has been showing me in His Word very specifically how to deal with people who say hurtful, inconsiderate, or foolish things. Here is what I have learned:
Make sure your dressed for the occasion.
“Since God chose you to be the holy people He loves, you MUST clothe yourselves with tenderhearted mercy, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience. Make allowance for each other’s faults, and forgive anyone who offends you. Remember, the Lord forgave you, so you must forgive others. ABOVE ALL, clothe yourselves with love, which binds us all together in perfect harmony.” Colossians 3:12-14 (NLT)We should always clothe ourselves with tenderhearted mercy, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience. However, when you know in advance that you are going to be around Sand Paper People you need to be sure that you do not leave your house without being prayed up with a humble heart ready to be patient and merciful, willing to overlook other’s faults. Above all ask God to give you a special love for these individuals, because it is love that covers a multitude of sins. (Ephesians 4:2, 1 Peter 4:8)
Remember that God is working things out in both theirs and our lives.
God has a plan and purpose for everything in our life. He causes everything to work together for the good of those who love God and are called according to His purpose for them. (Romans 8:28) If He is allowing us to go through this testing of our patience and self-control by dealing with sand paper people, then it’s because He wants to teach us to love people in spite of their foolishness. He is teaching us about humility and meekness. This testing equips us for the new level in Christ that He wants to promote us to.
He is also trying to reach out to the other person. If the person is an unbeliever, we know that it is not God’s will for them to perish, so surely He has us there to show them the love Christ. If we are patient with them and make allowances for their faults they will see this, even if they don’t say it. Then one day they may decide to ask about our Christian hope, which we should be ready to explain in a gentle and respectful way. Even if they don’t receive what we have to say our godly lives will speak to them. They will be won over by observing our pure and reverent lives. (1 Peter 3:2, 3:15-16)Now if the other person is a believer too then we must remember that we are all at different places in our walk with Christ. Philippians 1:6 is the scripture that the Lord reminds me of when the sand paper person is a Christian, “And I am certain that God, who began the good work within you, will continue His work until it is finally finished on the day when Christ Jesus returns.” We must remind ourselves that just like He is not done with us, He is not done with them either.
Be led by the Holy Spirit and allow Him to control your tongue
We must allow the Holy Spirit to control our tongue, especially when we are around people who become the tool in the hands of the enemy to provoke foolish talks or arguments. (James 1:26) I like what Proverbs 26:4-5 says,
“Don’t answer the foolish arguments of fools, or you will become as foolish as they are. Be sure to answer the foolish arguments of fools, or they will become wise in their own estimation.”
These verses show us that sometimes it is best not to respond to foolish arguments because then we are just adding to the foolishness. However, there will be times when we will have to respond and correct in order to stop the foolishness. In either case this proverb is showing that we need to stop the spread of foolishness. One must use wisdom to know the difference and be led by the Spirit of God as to when we should respond and when we should be quiet. You will know when you are not being led by the Spirit when you are reacting hostile, quarreling, and having outbursts of anger. These are not of the Spirit, they are of our own sinful nature. (Galatians 5:19)God knows that there will be times when the foolishness becomes too much and we want to vent our anger, especially when the person insults us or someone we love. The Lord led me to these scriptures which spoke right to my heart.
Proverbs 29:11 “Fools vent their anger, but the wise quietly hold it back”
Proverbs 19:11 “Sensible people control their temper, they earn respect by overlooking wrongs.”
1 Peter 2:23 Speaking of Jesus, “He did not retaliate when He was insulted, nor threaten revenge when He suffered. He left His case in the hands of God, who always judges fairly.” - This one is my favorite!
Suffering for good
"But if you suffer for doing good and endure it patiently, God is pleased with you. For God called you to do good, even if it means suffering, just as Christ suffered for you. He is your example, and you must follow in His steps.” 1 Peter 2:20-21Our Lord is pleased when we suffer for good. Being long suffering, patient, kind, and forgiving to those that have wronged and continue to wrong us a Christ like character that honors God. The ‘Sand Paper People Test’ is good for us because if we endure this testing we will be learning to love like Christ. He is our example to follow. So let us not get tired of doing what is good. At just right the right time we will reap a harvest of blessing if we don’t give up. This is just a refining test to help us grow in Christ Jesus. (Galatians 6:9)
Friday, November 28, 2008
From The Archives: Unforgiveness
This is one that I needed to revisit and check myself. If I don't listen to the Holy Spirit and reject the 'Woe is me' attitude I will allow unforgiveness to settle inside my heart. It's not worth my prayer life and relationship with our Lord being hindered. Let us all remember to be quick to forgive. It's for our own good. Let's leave it in God's hands.
Unforgiveness
Has someone offended you or said something hurtful? Perhaps someone has betrayed or abandoned you? For your own good you must let it go!
Unforgiveness in your heart will only cause sickness and disease in your body. It takes so much energy to constantly think on how someone has wronged you. You do not want to let bitterness and resentment root deep in your heart because it will affect every relationship in your life. Your may even develop a terrible attitude and your countenance can change.
Forgiving someone who has hurt you is a choice. Sometimes you have to choose daily to forgive the offense, until you are at a point where it isn’t always popping up in your head. The bottom line is “It Is A CHOICE!” If you do not let it go and forgive your offender your relationship with the Lord will be hindered. In fact if you refuse to forgive our Heavenly Father will not forgive you either. (Matthew 6:14-15) Don’t continue to hold grudges. You are only hurting your own spiritual growth. (Ephesians 4:32, Colossians 3:13)
Don’t think of ways to get back at them. Instead pray for them. Pray for God to help them. (1 Peter 3:9) Circumstances can change drastically and one day your enemies may need you.
One of my favorite stories in the bible is the story of Joseph, the dreamer. His brothers were so jealous of his relationship with their father. They were always talking about him behind is back. They hated him. They even plotted to tell kill him but instead they sold him into slavery. His own family! Talk about abandonment and betrayal. He was hurt and lonely. But he allowed God to use him where he was at and continued moving forward in life. The Lord raised him up to a position of power. He was made him second in command to the Pharaoh. When there was a great famine in the land his brothers had to go Egypt to get food. So there they are in front of the one they betrayed trying to buy food, but they did not recognize him. This was Joseph’s chance to pay them back, but he didn’t. Joseph had forgiven his brothers and brought his family there to be with him during the famine. This is the example we should follow. (Genesis 37-47)
Unforgiveness is too heavy of a load to carry. Let our Lord have this hurt, this offense. He wants to carry your burdens for you. He wants you to give Him all of your worries and concerns because He cares for you and He is always thinking about you. (1 Peter 5:14) Make a choice today to be free from the bondage of unforgiveness.
Unforgiveness in your heart will only cause sickness and disease in your body. It takes so much energy to constantly think on how someone has wronged you. You do not want to let bitterness and resentment root deep in your heart because it will affect every relationship in your life. Your may even develop a terrible attitude and your countenance can change.
Forgiving someone who has hurt you is a choice. Sometimes you have to choose daily to forgive the offense, until you are at a point where it isn’t always popping up in your head. The bottom line is “It Is A CHOICE!” If you do not let it go and forgive your offender your relationship with the Lord will be hindered. In fact if you refuse to forgive our Heavenly Father will not forgive you either. (Matthew 6:14-15) Don’t continue to hold grudges. You are only hurting your own spiritual growth. (Ephesians 4:32, Colossians 3:13)
Don’t think of ways to get back at them. Instead pray for them. Pray for God to help them. (1 Peter 3:9) Circumstances can change drastically and one day your enemies may need you.
One of my favorite stories in the bible is the story of Joseph, the dreamer. His brothers were so jealous of his relationship with their father. They were always talking about him behind is back. They hated him. They even plotted to tell kill him but instead they sold him into slavery. His own family! Talk about abandonment and betrayal. He was hurt and lonely. But he allowed God to use him where he was at and continued moving forward in life. The Lord raised him up to a position of power. He was made him second in command to the Pharaoh. When there was a great famine in the land his brothers had to go Egypt to get food. So there they are in front of the one they betrayed trying to buy food, but they did not recognize him. This was Joseph’s chance to pay them back, but he didn’t. Joseph had forgiven his brothers and brought his family there to be with him during the famine. This is the example we should follow. (Genesis 37-47)
Unforgiveness is too heavy of a load to carry. Let our Lord have this hurt, this offense. He wants to carry your burdens for you. He wants you to give Him all of your worries and concerns because He cares for you and He is always thinking about you. (1 Peter 5:14) Make a choice today to be free from the bondage of unforgiveness.
Sunday, November 23, 2008
Let It Roll Off Your Back
"
An angry person starts fights; a hot-tempered person commits all types of sins.” Proverbs 29:22
I used to be full of anger, easily offended, and constantly fighting. Through the power of the Holy Spirit and the renewing of my mind with the Word of God over the years, I have conquered anger issues that used to control my moods and emotions. However, I find myself still getting bent out of shape over situations that I just can’t change or people who don’t change. Although I do not react the way I used to, I hate that I still get so angry.
Let me clarify, I don’t want you to get the wrong impression. I am not a time bomb waiting to go off. For the most part I am a pretty chill and easy going person. I’m the first to make excuses for others offenses, trying to see the best in them, and trying to see their point of view. I am also very long suffering and patient. I really don’t care if I am talked about or persecuted because I know that my Lord was too, so I don’t take it personal.
However, recently the enemy has attacked me where it hurts the most, with my family. I see my children facing situations that they don’t deserve. I see my loved ones being tempted and persecuted. My first reaction is anger. Then there is an internal battle between my old nature and my new nature. They war within me each wanting to resolve the situation in their own way. I wish I could say that all the time the new nature wins, but that would be a lie. Sometimes I quickly retort with words of anger, without even thinking.
“Understand this, my dear brothers and sisters: You must all be quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to get angry. Human anger does not produce the righteousness God desires.” James 1:19-20
I have learned by experience that if I am lead by the emotion of anger I will only make matters worse. Instead of acting out foolishly I have learned and am still learning to give the situation to the Lord and I trust Him to have His way.
Through tears I pray for God’s mercy and grace. Then I sit back and I pray for those that hurt me or those I love. My prayer is always for God to have mercy on them, to help them, and draw them to Jesus. He gives me the power and the willingness to want to forgive them. Then I am full of peace as I trust Him to work it out for our good and for His glory. It is always so amazing to me that He turns my anger into sorrow and compassion for our offender. I KNOW that is a God thing for sure.
Anger is a natural emotion. We will get angry sometimes, but what matters is that when we are angry that we do not sin and that we do not go to bed with that anger still lurking inside of us.
“Don’t sin by letting anger control you. Don’t let the sun go down while you are still angry, for anger gives a foothold to the devil.” Ephesians 4:26-27
Recently my pastor taught on anger. The two things that still stand out in my mind that he said are, “Don’t be angry about the things you can’t change. You’re angry for no reason. And don’t get angry about the things you CAN change.”
When I heard him say this I chuckled to myself because is just makes so much sense to me. It’s so simple and yet so profound. It was an on time Word that I needed to hear. I am determined to apply these words of wisdom to my own life and would encourage you to do the same. We will avoid so much unnecessary drama if we do not react in anger but instead we learn to let things roll right off our backs.
Harboring anger will only lead to malice, wrath, bitterness, clamor, slander, resentment, and unforgivness. It will have a huge snowball affect in our lives and will hinder our relationship with God and others. If we sit and really think about it, it’s silly and pointless to get angry about things that we can’t change because what’s done is done. You can’t change it and getting angry isn’t going to help the situation. Getting angry will usually make the situation worse. We may say things that we don’t mean or we may do something that can’t be undone. Dealing with our problems in anger most certainly will have regrettable repercussions.
However, in some situations we have the power to change the problem. Rather than getting angry and adding to the problem we can make a difference and seek change. Instead of anger being our guiding emotion let us be inspired by the Holy Spirit and full of determination to transform our problems.
Anger is pointless. Let it roll of your back and don’t allow anything to steal your joy and peace.
An angry person starts fights; a hot-tempered person commits all types of sins.” Proverbs 29:22I used to be full of anger, easily offended, and constantly fighting. Through the power of the Holy Spirit and the renewing of my mind with the Word of God over the years, I have conquered anger issues that used to control my moods and emotions. However, I find myself still getting bent out of shape over situations that I just can’t change or people who don’t change. Although I do not react the way I used to, I hate that I still get so angry.
Let me clarify, I don’t want you to get the wrong impression. I am not a time bomb waiting to go off. For the most part I am a pretty chill and easy going person. I’m the first to make excuses for others offenses, trying to see the best in them, and trying to see their point of view. I am also very long suffering and patient. I really don’t care if I am talked about or persecuted because I know that my Lord was too, so I don’t take it personal.
However, recently the enemy has attacked me where it hurts the most, with my family. I see my children facing situations that they don’t deserve. I see my loved ones being tempted and persecuted. My first reaction is anger. Then there is an internal battle between my old nature and my new nature. They war within me each wanting to resolve the situation in their own way. I wish I could say that all the time the new nature wins, but that would be a lie. Sometimes I quickly retort with words of anger, without even thinking.
“Understand this, my dear brothers and sisters: You must all be quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to get angry. Human anger does not produce the righteousness God desires.” James 1:19-20
I have learned by experience that if I am lead by the emotion of anger I will only make matters worse. Instead of acting out foolishly I have learned and am still learning to give the situation to the Lord and I trust Him to have His way.
Through tears I pray for God’s mercy and grace. Then I sit back and I pray for those that hurt me or those I love. My prayer is always for God to have mercy on them, to help them, and draw them to Jesus. He gives me the power and the willingness to want to forgive them. Then I am full of peace as I trust Him to work it out for our good and for His glory. It is always so amazing to me that He turns my anger into sorrow and compassion for our offender. I KNOW that is a God thing for sure.
Anger is a natural emotion. We will get angry sometimes, but what matters is that when we are angry that we do not sin and that we do not go to bed with that anger still lurking inside of us.
“Don’t sin by letting anger control you. Don’t let the sun go down while you are still angry, for anger gives a foothold to the devil.” Ephesians 4:26-27
Recently my pastor taught on anger. The two things that still stand out in my mind that he said are, “Don’t be angry about the things you can’t change. You’re angry for no reason. And don’t get angry about the things you CAN change.”
When I heard him say this I chuckled to myself because is just makes so much sense to me. It’s so simple and yet so profound. It was an on time Word that I needed to hear. I am determined to apply these words of wisdom to my own life and would encourage you to do the same. We will avoid so much unnecessary drama if we do not react in anger but instead we learn to let things roll right off our backs.
Harboring anger will only lead to malice, wrath, bitterness, clamor, slander, resentment, and unforgivness. It will have a huge snowball affect in our lives and will hinder our relationship with God and others. If we sit and really think about it, it’s silly and pointless to get angry about things that we can’t change because what’s done is done. You can’t change it and getting angry isn’t going to help the situation. Getting angry will usually make the situation worse. We may say things that we don’t mean or we may do something that can’t be undone. Dealing with our problems in anger most certainly will have regrettable repercussions.
However, in some situations we have the power to change the problem. Rather than getting angry and adding to the problem we can make a difference and seek change. Instead of anger being our guiding emotion let us be inspired by the Holy Spirit and full of determination to transform our problems.
Anger is pointless. Let it roll of your back and don’t allow anything to steal your joy and peace.
Thursday, November 13, 2008
Don't Take The Bait
My husband and I had been in prayer and fasting regarding specific decisions that we needed to make for our family. After seeking our Lord’s face we were sure that He would make it clear to us what direction we needed to take. He has always been faithful to guide and lead us down the right path so we trusted Him to give us direction and to show us His will.
It has been several months now and an option has presented it’s self. But is it God or are we being baited and lured by a temporary solution that only ends in bondage? After reviewing the possibilities of the offer presented to us we realized that it was a trap. At first glance it seemed that the proposal would provide freedom and relief. It was appealing and tempting, too good to be true. My father in law said to us, “I always say if it looks too good to be true then it probably is.”
After digging deeper into the substance we were able to find the hidden hooks that would have hindered and kept us restricted from the freedom that we need. Had we of taken the bait and accepted the offer our circumstances would have changed for the better temporarily, however there were consequences and repercussions for accepting this false promise of peace. We thanked God for giving us wisdom, common sense, wise counsel, His Word, and His Holy Spirit to help us properly evaluate the situation. It became clear to us which way to go.
This isn’t the first time that the enemy as tried to divert us from taking the right path. The enemy will come to us all of with His alluring temptations full of false promises of hope and relief. He makes his offers so tempting and sound so good so as even to deceive, if possible, God’s chosen ones. His goal is to get us off tract and distracted from following God’s will for our life. We must be prepared to properly discern every claim, temptation, and offer the enemy presents.
In the past I more easily fell for the enemy’s lies and deceptions because I desired my own way more than God’s way. I did not read the Word of God daily and therefore I was not meditating on it either. My mind was worldly and full of selfish desires. I was easy prey. I was easy to deceive. Not any more! The enemy has to come correct and tactful now.
Don’t foolishly disregard what I am telling you. The enemy desires to blind us with deception, bind us, and keep us from achieving all that God has for us. I am not giving the enemy too much credit. I am just keeping it real with you and reminding you that this is a spiritual battle. Our enemy, satan is real. Stay alert! Watch out for your great enemy, the devil. He prowls around like a roaring lion, looking for someone to devour. Stand firm against him, and be strong in your faith. (1 Peter 5:8-9)
Don’t fall for the enemies tricks. Stay on the right path, the narrow road. Know the Word of God and what it means. This is the sword that you will use to defeat the lies of the enemy. His Word assures us that we are on the right path. It is the light that guides and leads us. We are more then conquerors in Christ Jesus and we have the mind Christ to help us discern truth from deception. Don’t take the bait. (Psalm 119:105, 1 Corinthians 2:16)
It has been several months now and an option has presented it’s self. But is it God or are we being baited and lured by a temporary solution that only ends in bondage? After reviewing the possibilities of the offer presented to us we realized that it was a trap. At first glance it seemed that the proposal would provide freedom and relief. It was appealing and tempting, too good to be true. My father in law said to us, “I always say if it looks too good to be true then it probably is.”
After digging deeper into the substance we were able to find the hidden hooks that would have hindered and kept us restricted from the freedom that we need. Had we of taken the bait and accepted the offer our circumstances would have changed for the better temporarily, however there were consequences and repercussions for accepting this false promise of peace. We thanked God for giving us wisdom, common sense, wise counsel, His Word, and His Holy Spirit to help us properly evaluate the situation. It became clear to us which way to go.
This isn’t the first time that the enemy as tried to divert us from taking the right path. The enemy will come to us all of with His alluring temptations full of false promises of hope and relief. He makes his offers so tempting and sound so good so as even to deceive, if possible, God’s chosen ones. His goal is to get us off tract and distracted from following God’s will for our life. We must be prepared to properly discern every claim, temptation, and offer the enemy presents.
In the past I more easily fell for the enemy’s lies and deceptions because I desired my own way more than God’s way. I did not read the Word of God daily and therefore I was not meditating on it either. My mind was worldly and full of selfish desires. I was easy prey. I was easy to deceive. Not any more! The enemy has to come correct and tactful now.
Don’t foolishly disregard what I am telling you. The enemy desires to blind us with deception, bind us, and keep us from achieving all that God has for us. I am not giving the enemy too much credit. I am just keeping it real with you and reminding you that this is a spiritual battle. Our enemy, satan is real. Stay alert! Watch out for your great enemy, the devil. He prowls around like a roaring lion, looking for someone to devour. Stand firm against him, and be strong in your faith. (1 Peter 5:8-9)
Don’t fall for the enemies tricks. Stay on the right path, the narrow road. Know the Word of God and what it means. This is the sword that you will use to defeat the lies of the enemy. His Word assures us that we are on the right path. It is the light that guides and leads us. We are more then conquerors in Christ Jesus and we have the mind Christ to help us discern truth from deception. Don’t take the bait. (Psalm 119:105, 1 Corinthians 2:16)
Wednesday, November 5, 2008
The People's Choice & His First Fruits
"The first thing I'd do as president is sign the Freedom of Choice Act. That's the first thing that I'd do." -- Senator Barack Obama on 7/17/07 addressing Planned Parenthood.
http://www.nrlc.org/foca/index.htmlProverbs 24:11-12
Rescue those who are unjustly sentenced to die; save them as they stagger to their death. Don’t excuse yourself by saying, “Look, we didn’t know.” For God understands all hearts, and he sees you. He who guards your soul knows you knew. He will repay all people as their actions deserve.
"A new dawn of American leadership is at hand."
American's have made their choice. She has elected a leader who has promised that his first fruits as president of the United States of America would be to sign The Freedom of Choice Act. Signing the Freedom of Choice Act would over turn all 300 plus local, state, and federal abortion restriction laws, such as the partial birth abortion band and parental notification regulations for minors. A nation that once stood for God now goes against our country's Judeo-Christian values and principles. May God have mercy on us.
We as Christians were given the Bible (God's Word) as a literal guide for our lives and were therefore obligated to cast our votes for the candidates that best supported the positions and moral values set forth within its pages. To cast a vote that promotes or serves to further causes that are contrary to the commands and moral values given to us in God's Word by which we live, profess, teach, and witness, certainly does not reflect the will of God.
Now we will reap what we have sown because we have desired to have our own way and have become lovers of ourselves and money. The issues that should have mattered the most to us the moral issues of abortion, the homosexual lifestyle, and marriage were compromised. Many believers sided with the world and chose instead to put their hope in a man and his promise to restore our enconomy.
"When the righteous rule, the people rejoice; when the wicked rule, the people groan." (Pr. 29:2)
"Righteousness exalteth a nation, but sin is a reproach to any people." (Pr. 14:34)
Our leaders are to some extent a reflection of us. We often times become a reflection of our leaders! Remember King Ahab, may have been one the worst kings in the history of Israel. The Bible says that Ahab "provoked me (God) to anger and caused Israel to sin." (1 Kings 21:20-22)
One thing is for sure there will be change! Our new president will have a dramatic impact and influence on the country as a whole.
One thing is for sure there will be change! Our new president will have a dramatic impact and influence on the country as a whole.
Let us pray and humble ourselves before Almighty God to have mercy on America. We know that our God is Almighty and Powerful. He is using this situation to fulfill prophecy that must come to pass. May our Lord give us the courage to continue to stand for Truth and the Word of God in the following days to come.
Tuesday, September 9, 2008
Beware of Anger!
More on prayer tomorrow but for now..
BEWARE OF ANGER! When we have been hurt, offended, gossiped on, betrayed, or taken advantage of we must not allow ourselves to be consumed by anger. Anger is determined to take over all of our emotions and hinder our thinking provoking us to meditate on the offense over and over again.
It’s a trap! Don’t meditate on the offense!
By constantly remembering the offense we are feeding the anger and prolonging forgiveness and healing. We need to learn to choose to forgive and leave the offense and the offender in God’s hands. Believe me; I know it is easier said than done especially when it hits close to the heart. However, the Word of God tells us that if we do not forgive our offenders than God will not forgive us either. We are also commanded to get rid of all bitterness, rage, and anger in our lives.
“Your heavenly Father will forgive you if you forgive those who have sinned against you; but if you refuse to forgive them, he will not forgive you.” (Matthew 6:15)
“Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, brawling and slander, along with every form of malice. Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.” (Ephesians 4:31-32)
I am not saying don’t get angry. There will be times that we all get angry. We just can not allow the anger to overcome us. So what do we do when we have been hurt? How do we not allow anger not to consume us? Below are just some suggestions:
Ø Be lead by the Spirit. Don’t allow your fleshy emotions to take over your mind. Remember there are principalities in the spiritual realm wanting to agitate the situation more and could even be the influence provoking it. We must keep in mind that we are constantly in a spiritual battle.
Ø Control your tongue. Don’t be loose with the lips saying things that you will regret. I know my first reaction is to want to come out of my mouth and start verbally retaliating. I feel the need to defend myself with my tongue. This is not the answer! It will only help to quickly escalate the conflict.
Ø Do not hesitate, immediately begin to pray! Ask God to help keep a cover over your mouth until the Holy Spirit has helped you get control over your emotions. Then try to resolve the situation amicably, in love and with patience.
Ø If your offender is unreasonable and does not care to resolve the conflict then you have got to let it go and leave it in God’s hands. Remember that God is our vindicator. There is no reason to defend yourself or retaliate in anger, trust our Lord to work on both of your hearts and forgive the person right away for your own good.
Ø Refresh yourself by playing some praise and worship music so that you can get your spirit and mind back on the Lord and off the offense. It’s hard to be angry when you are worshipping God.
Lord, we thank you that through the power of the Holy Spirit we can forgive quickly and not allow anger to have its way with our emotions. We pray that You would have mercy on our offenders and draw them closer to You. In Jesus name…Amen.
It’s a trap! Don’t meditate on the offense!
By constantly remembering the offense we are feeding the anger and prolonging forgiveness and healing. We need to learn to choose to forgive and leave the offense and the offender in God’s hands. Believe me; I know it is easier said than done especially when it hits close to the heart. However, the Word of God tells us that if we do not forgive our offenders than God will not forgive us either. We are also commanded to get rid of all bitterness, rage, and anger in our lives.
“Your heavenly Father will forgive you if you forgive those who have sinned against you; but if you refuse to forgive them, he will not forgive you.” (Matthew 6:15)
“Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, brawling and slander, along with every form of malice. Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.” (Ephesians 4:31-32)
I am not saying don’t get angry. There will be times that we all get angry. We just can not allow the anger to overcome us. So what do we do when we have been hurt? How do we not allow anger not to consume us? Below are just some suggestions:
Ø Be lead by the Spirit. Don’t allow your fleshy emotions to take over your mind. Remember there are principalities in the spiritual realm wanting to agitate the situation more and could even be the influence provoking it. We must keep in mind that we are constantly in a spiritual battle.
Ø Control your tongue. Don’t be loose with the lips saying things that you will regret. I know my first reaction is to want to come out of my mouth and start verbally retaliating. I feel the need to defend myself with my tongue. This is not the answer! It will only help to quickly escalate the conflict.
Ø Do not hesitate, immediately begin to pray! Ask God to help keep a cover over your mouth until the Holy Spirit has helped you get control over your emotions. Then try to resolve the situation amicably, in love and with patience.
Ø If your offender is unreasonable and does not care to resolve the conflict then you have got to let it go and leave it in God’s hands. Remember that God is our vindicator. There is no reason to defend yourself or retaliate in anger, trust our Lord to work on both of your hearts and forgive the person right away for your own good.
Ø Refresh yourself by playing some praise and worship music so that you can get your spirit and mind back on the Lord and off the offense. It’s hard to be angry when you are worshipping God.
Lord, we thank you that through the power of the Holy Spirit we can forgive quickly and not allow anger to have its way with our emotions. We pray that You would have mercy on our offenders and draw them closer to You. In Jesus name…Amen.
Wednesday, July 23, 2008
Meekness-Power Under Control
Recently the Lord gave me clear instructions on how to handle one of my most recent battles. He said “learn meekness”. “Be lead of the Spirit and walk in love. Practice self control and don’t let yourself become upset. Meekness is power under control.”
I have never really meditated on meekness or what it truly means, until now. The more I searched the scriptures and read about the life of Christ I begin to realize that meekness is a fruit of the Holy Spirit that I desperately need if I want to live a successfully Christian life. (Galatians 5:23)
During my studies I found a lesson titled Jesus: The Meek on http://www.thebiblewayonline.com/ . Here is an excerpt from the lesson:
"Blessed are the meek for they shall inherit the earth", Jesus said in Matthew 5:5. What does it mean to be meek? According to our dictionary, to be meek means you are "showing patience and humility, gentleness ... easily imposed upon, submissive". The meek one doesn't throw fits or fly off the handle under pressure. A good synonym is "gentle". A meek person is under control. To be meek does not mean to be weak. A horse, before it is tamed, is strong but, being wild, is useless to man. After being tamed it does not lose its strength. It just becomes tamed, controlled and useful. A good definition for meekness is "strength under control". (Jesus: The Meek)
Now..Imagine if we developed the character of meekness by allowing the Holy Spirit to control our lives. We will have self control and not want to lash out when someone angers, persecutes, or provokes us. Instead we will be gentle and compassionate thinking about the other person and how our reaction will affect them. We will want our actions to reflect the love of God.
Being meek doesn’t mean that we allow ourselves to be pushed around. We must not compromise our faith, integrity, or standards. We are still to stand for truth justice, and fight against the attacks of the enemy. We just need to do it in love, gentleness, and self control.
It seems to me that meekness is a matter of walking in love.
Ø Speak evil of no man, to be no brawlers, but gentle, shewing all meekness unto all men. Titus 3:2
I have never really meditated on meekness or what it truly means, until now. The more I searched the scriptures and read about the life of Christ I begin to realize that meekness is a fruit of the Holy Spirit that I desperately need if I want to live a successfully Christian life. (Galatians 5:23)
During my studies I found a lesson titled Jesus: The Meek on http://www.thebiblewayonline.com/ . Here is an excerpt from the lesson:
"Blessed are the meek for they shall inherit the earth", Jesus said in Matthew 5:5. What does it mean to be meek? According to our dictionary, to be meek means you are "showing patience and humility, gentleness ... easily imposed upon, submissive". The meek one doesn't throw fits or fly off the handle under pressure. A good synonym is "gentle". A meek person is under control. To be meek does not mean to be weak. A horse, before it is tamed, is strong but, being wild, is useless to man. After being tamed it does not lose its strength. It just becomes tamed, controlled and useful. A good definition for meekness is "strength under control". (Jesus: The Meek)
Now..Imagine if we developed the character of meekness by allowing the Holy Spirit to control our lives. We will have self control and not want to lash out when someone angers, persecutes, or provokes us. Instead we will be gentle and compassionate thinking about the other person and how our reaction will affect them. We will want our actions to reflect the love of God.
Being meek doesn’t mean that we allow ourselves to be pushed around. We must not compromise our faith, integrity, or standards. We are still to stand for truth justice, and fight against the attacks of the enemy. We just need to do it in love, gentleness, and self control.
It seems to me that meekness is a matter of walking in love.
Ø Speak evil of no man, to be no brawlers, but gentle, shewing all meekness unto all men. Titus 3:2
Ø I therefore, the prisoner of the Lord, beseech you that ye walk worthy of the vocation wherewith ye are called, With all lowliness and meekness, with longsuffering, forbearing one another in love; Ephesians 4:2
Being meek when someone is attacking or persecuting us will be difficult. However, it is NOT impossible with the help of the Holy Spirit. Psalms 147:6 says “The Lord lifts up the meek.” So let us humble ourselves for Christ sake and allow the fruit of meekness to grow in our lives so that we may be bring glory to God.
Monday, July 14, 2008
The Enemy's Tool
Don’t be a tool in the hand of the enemy. One of my closest friends and I are always saying this to one another. You see we are aware that the enemy will use anyone who allows him to cause strife, animosity, offense, jealousy, and problems in our life. He can even use us to cause drama or hurt in someone else’s life if we do not allow ourselves to be lead by the Spirit in everything we say and do.
The minute you give in to the temptation to gossip about someone, curse someone out, manipulate, antagonize, hate someone, have selfish ambition, cause dissension, lash out, envy, participate in drunkenness, and the like you have become a tool in the hands of the enemy. You are gratifying the desires of the sinful nature. The sinful nature desires what is contrary to the Spirit, and the Spirit what is contrary to the sinful nature. (Gal. 5:16-17)
Don’t allow yourself to become a tool in the hands of the enemy to hurt someone else. Instead be lead by the Spirit and you will walk in love and produce joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. (Gal. 5:22-23)
Also, remember that this is a spiritual battle. Be self controled and alert. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion seeking for someone to devour. (1 Peter 5:8) Who will fall for his tricks? Who will be used by him to destroy someone else’s trust, faith, or hope?
When you see that someone has become the tool the enemy is using against you remember that this is not a battle against flesh and blood, but against persons without bodies-the evil rulers of the unseen world, those mighty satanic beings and great evil princes of darkness who rule this world; and against huge numbers of wicked spirits in the spirit world. (Eph 6:12) These spirits may influence certain individuals that have made themselves open to be used by them, even ‘Christians’. In your eyes you see the person standing in front you coming out of their mouth but remember that there is probably a spirit near by throwing thoughts toward the person about you. It is your choice how you react. Will you walk in the Spirit of Love and practice self control? Or will you gratify the flesh and lash out? Don’t give in to the attacks it will only cause more turmoil.
Lord help us to see the attacks of the enemy. Give us wisdom, courage, and self control to react in love using the Word of God as our weapon. Help us not to become tools in the hand of the enemy to hurt others. But let us be surrendered to the leading of the Holy Spirit. In Jesus..Amen!
The minute you give in to the temptation to gossip about someone, curse someone out, manipulate, antagonize, hate someone, have selfish ambition, cause dissension, lash out, envy, participate in drunkenness, and the like you have become a tool in the hands of the enemy. You are gratifying the desires of the sinful nature. The sinful nature desires what is contrary to the Spirit, and the Spirit what is contrary to the sinful nature. (Gal. 5:16-17)
Don’t allow yourself to become a tool in the hands of the enemy to hurt someone else. Instead be lead by the Spirit and you will walk in love and produce joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. (Gal. 5:22-23)
Also, remember that this is a spiritual battle. Be self controled and alert. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion seeking for someone to devour. (1 Peter 5:8) Who will fall for his tricks? Who will be used by him to destroy someone else’s trust, faith, or hope?
When you see that someone has become the tool the enemy is using against you remember that this is not a battle against flesh and blood, but against persons without bodies-the evil rulers of the unseen world, those mighty satanic beings and great evil princes of darkness who rule this world; and against huge numbers of wicked spirits in the spirit world. (Eph 6:12) These spirits may influence certain individuals that have made themselves open to be used by them, even ‘Christians’. In your eyes you see the person standing in front you coming out of their mouth but remember that there is probably a spirit near by throwing thoughts toward the person about you. It is your choice how you react. Will you walk in the Spirit of Love and practice self control? Or will you gratify the flesh and lash out? Don’t give in to the attacks it will only cause more turmoil.
Lord help us to see the attacks of the enemy. Give us wisdom, courage, and self control to react in love using the Word of God as our weapon. Help us not to become tools in the hand of the enemy to hurt others. But let us be surrendered to the leading of the Holy Spirit. In Jesus..Amen!
Wednesday, July 9, 2008
Unforgiveness
Has someone offended you or said something hurtful? Perhaps someone has betrayed or abandoned you? For your own good you must let it go!
Unforgiveness in your heart will only cause sickness and disease in your body. It takes so much energy to constantly think on how someone has wronged you. You do not want to let bitterness and resentment root deep in your heart because it will affect every relationship in your life. Your may even develop a terrible attitude and your countenance can change.
Forgiving someone who has hurt you is a choice. Sometimes you have to choose daily to forgive the offense, until you are at a point where it isn’t always popping up in your head. The bottom line is “It Is A CHOICE!” If you do not let it go and forgive your offender your relationship with the Lord will be hindered. In fact if you refuse to forgive our Heavenly Father will not forgive you either. (Matthew 6:14-15) Don’t continue to hold grudges. You are only hurting your own spiritual growth. (Ephesians 4:32, Colossians 3:13)
Don’t think of ways to get back at them. Instead pray for them. Pray for God to help them. (1 Peter 3:9) Circumstances can change drastically and one day your enemies may need you.
One of my favorite stories in the bible is the story of Joseph, the dreamer. His brothers were so jealous of his relationship with their father. They were always talking about him behind is back. They hated him. They even plotted to tell kill him but instead they sold him into slavery. His own family! Talk about abandonment and betrayal. He was hurt and lonely. But he allowed God to use him where he was at and continued moving forward in life. The Lord raised him up to a position of power. He was made him second in command to the Pharaoh. When there was a great famine in the land his brothers had to go Egypt to get food. So there they are in front of the one they betrayed trying to buy food, but they did not recognize him. This was Joseph’s chance to pay them back, but he didn’t. Joseph had forgiven his brothers and brought his family there to be with him during the famine. This is the example we should follow. (Genesis 37-47)
Unforgiveness is too heavy of a load to carry. Let our Lord have this hurt, this offense. He wants to carry your burdens for you. He wants you to give Him all of your worries and concerns because He cares for you and He is always thinking about you. (1 Peter 5:14) Make a choice today to be free from the bondage of unforgiveness.
Unforgiveness in your heart will only cause sickness and disease in your body. It takes so much energy to constantly think on how someone has wronged you. You do not want to let bitterness and resentment root deep in your heart because it will affect every relationship in your life. Your may even develop a terrible attitude and your countenance can change.
Forgiving someone who has hurt you is a choice. Sometimes you have to choose daily to forgive the offense, until you are at a point where it isn’t always popping up in your head. The bottom line is “It Is A CHOICE!” If you do not let it go and forgive your offender your relationship with the Lord will be hindered. In fact if you refuse to forgive our Heavenly Father will not forgive you either. (Matthew 6:14-15) Don’t continue to hold grudges. You are only hurting your own spiritual growth. (Ephesians 4:32, Colossians 3:13)
Don’t think of ways to get back at them. Instead pray for them. Pray for God to help them. (1 Peter 3:9) Circumstances can change drastically and one day your enemies may need you.
One of my favorite stories in the bible is the story of Joseph, the dreamer. His brothers were so jealous of his relationship with their father. They were always talking about him behind is back. They hated him. They even plotted to tell kill him but instead they sold him into slavery. His own family! Talk about abandonment and betrayal. He was hurt and lonely. But he allowed God to use him where he was at and continued moving forward in life. The Lord raised him up to a position of power. He was made him second in command to the Pharaoh. When there was a great famine in the land his brothers had to go Egypt to get food. So there they are in front of the one they betrayed trying to buy food, but they did not recognize him. This was Joseph’s chance to pay them back, but he didn’t. Joseph had forgiven his brothers and brought his family there to be with him during the famine. This is the example we should follow. (Genesis 37-47)
Unforgiveness is too heavy of a load to carry. Let our Lord have this hurt, this offense. He wants to carry your burdens for you. He wants you to give Him all of your worries and concerns because He cares for you and He is always thinking about you. (1 Peter 5:14) Make a choice today to be free from the bondage of unforgiveness.
Wednesday, April 30, 2008
Pray For Them & Leave It in God's Hands
Sometimes we want to take things into our own hands when someone has hurt or offended us or someone we love. But the Lord says vengeance is His. We are called to pray for our enemies. Enemy seems like a strong word but an enemy is a person who feels hatred for, fosters harmful designs against, or engages in antagonistic activities against another; an adversary or opponent.
There are those that definitely try to antagonize me. I have learned and I am still learning to leave these types of people in God hands. If my God is for me who can be against me. I know that man can not do anything to me that God does not allow. I feel sorry for those who attack the children of God because he promises to crush our enemies. He also says that he prepares a table for us in the presences of our enemies. He will put them under our feet.
We must pray for our enemies and learn to forgive them quickly. Unforgiveness in our hearts will only turn into bitterness and resentment. It is ok to be angry and not sin. We will reap what we sow so remember that we are only hurting ourselves when we try to look for ways to get back at someone. It is best to allow God to deal with these individuals personally. All we have to do is talk to God about the hurt and the offense and trust Him to handle the situation.
As we begin to pray for those that persecute us God will begin to change our hearts towards these people. We will to learn to react in love towards them and we will have peace knowing that God protects us.
Matthew 5:44-48, Psalm 44:4-7, Psalm 23:5,
There are those that definitely try to antagonize me. I have learned and I am still learning to leave these types of people in God hands. If my God is for me who can be against me. I know that man can not do anything to me that God does not allow. I feel sorry for those who attack the children of God because he promises to crush our enemies. He also says that he prepares a table for us in the presences of our enemies. He will put them under our feet.
We must pray for our enemies and learn to forgive them quickly. Unforgiveness in our hearts will only turn into bitterness and resentment. It is ok to be angry and not sin. We will reap what we sow so remember that we are only hurting ourselves when we try to look for ways to get back at someone. It is best to allow God to deal with these individuals personally. All we have to do is talk to God about the hurt and the offense and trust Him to handle the situation.
As we begin to pray for those that persecute us God will begin to change our hearts towards these people. We will to learn to react in love towards them and we will have peace knowing that God protects us.
Matthew 5:44-48, Psalm 44:4-7, Psalm 23:5,
Tuesday, April 1, 2008
Sandpaper People
Are there certain people in your life that you wish you just did not have to deal with? Do you try avoiding them? Have you noticed that being around these people or even just talking to them briefly on the phone brings out something in you that you don’t like? If there is no one like this in your life then great! But in my life I definitely have a couple of people like that.
I call these people the sandpaper in my life. I have found that God will use these abrasive people to remove the ugliness off of the surface of my heart. They are the sandpaper that God uses to make me smoother. He shows me through my reaction to them that I have my own issues that I need to surrender and that I need to pray for them.
I have also found that if I try to avoid these people that God can bring someone else just like them to take their place. He is determined to show me the lesson of learning how to react to them in love.
I have accepted that these people are allowed in my life to make me a better loving Christian. I have become more consistent with evaluating whether or not I handled the situation with love. Then I make it a point to correct my wrongs and remember to pray for them even if I feel like I don’t want to. I know that God will bless me for my sacrifice. Most of all I know that I am pleasing my Lord and being conformed to His image.
1 Peter 3:9 (Amplified Bible) Never return evil for evil or insult for insult (scolding, tongue-lashing, berating), but on the contrary blessing [praying for their welfare, happiness, and protection, and truly pitying and loving them]. For know that to this you have been called, that you may yourselves inherit a blessing [from God--that you may obtain a blessing as heirs, bringing welfare and happiness and protection].
I call these people the sandpaper in my life. I have found that God will use these abrasive people to remove the ugliness off of the surface of my heart. They are the sandpaper that God uses to make me smoother. He shows me through my reaction to them that I have my own issues that I need to surrender and that I need to pray for them.
I have also found that if I try to avoid these people that God can bring someone else just like them to take their place. He is determined to show me the lesson of learning how to react to them in love.
I have accepted that these people are allowed in my life to make me a better loving Christian. I have become more consistent with evaluating whether or not I handled the situation with love. Then I make it a point to correct my wrongs and remember to pray for them even if I feel like I don’t want to. I know that God will bless me for my sacrifice. Most of all I know that I am pleasing my Lord and being conformed to His image.
1 Peter 3:9 (Amplified Bible) Never return evil for evil or insult for insult (scolding, tongue-lashing, berating), but on the contrary blessing [praying for their welfare, happiness, and protection, and truly pitying and loving them]. For know that to this you have been called, that you may yourselves inherit a blessing [from God--that you may obtain a blessing as heirs, bringing welfare and happiness and protection].
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My God is Faithful!
Psalm 40:1-3 I waited patiently for the LORD; he turned to me and heard my cry.He lifted me out of the slimy pit,out of the mud and mire; he set my feet on a rock and gave me a firm place to stand. He put a new song in my mouth, a hymn of praise to our God. Many will see and fear and put their trust in the LORD.
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