1 KINGS - The One and Only

Today's "Bible Pick 'Ems" comes from the book of 1 Kings.

The verses are taken from the beginning of King Solomon's prayer of dedication for the newly-built Temple in Jerusalem. After hundreds of years, a permanent home for the presence of God was finally completed!

It was a joyous time of celebration.

Solomon's Temple was a glittering spectacle, displaying the riches of a prospering nation. As a dwelling place for God, it was fitting for the Temple to be beautiful.

In the final climactic moment, when all the building was complete, the Ark of the Covenant was brought into the Most Holy Place, and "…the glorious presence of the LORD filled the Temple." (1 Kings 8:11)

Then Solomon gathered the people of Israel together to dedicate the Temple – but he also wanted them to rededicate themselves to God's service.

I can almost hear his voice resounding across the centuries:

"Then Solomon stood before the altar of the LORD in front of the entire community of Israel. He lifted his hands toward heaven, and he prayed.

'O LORD, God of Israel, there is no God like you in all of heaven above or on the earth below. You keep your covenant and show unfailing love to all who walk before you in wholehearted devotion…

(and to the people of Israel)…And may you be completely faithful to the LORD our God. May you always obey his decrees and commands, just as you are doing today.'" (1 Kings 8:22-23, 61)

Solomon declared that even the highest heavens, the far reaches of the universe, could not contain God. His majesty shines brighter than any light in the sky, and His riches far surpass any man-made structure.

Can you imagine what it was like when the glory of God filled the Temple?

But have you ever stopped to think about your own heart?

Isn't it amazing that God is willing to live in the hearts of those who believe in Him and love Him?!

We are blessed indeed.

So where is God's presence?

He's here, in my heart,

Directing my pathways

As He has from the start.

Where is God's presence?

He's here! Don't you see?

The Most High of the Universe

Dwells within me.

© Sharon Kirby, October 4, 2000

Let us walk in wholehearted devotion to Him – obeying Him always, just as we are doing today…

What does it mean to you to have the presence of God within you?

"When in doubt, search God out!"

HOSEA - The LORD is A Tree

Lately I've had a *guidance* theme going on my blog, huh?!

So, I thought I would do another re-post...(no, not lazy - busy, yes!)

I re-read this post myself, and I just love how God *re-speaks* a good word to me. I was once again comforted by the nurturing and warm character of our Heavenly Father. He is so very good to us!

Please enjoy this post originally posted on September 26, 2010:

GOD IS LIKE A TREE

Years ago on a family vacation, as we were driving on the highway, we saw a sign:

"FRESH FRUIT – HOMEMADE PIES"

One quick look at each other, one fast U-turn… and we were off into parts unknown.

It was a quaint country road – mostly dirt and gravel – bumpy, twisty – the four miles took about 40 minutes to navigate!

Around one more bend, and there was an adorable little farmhouse, nestled next to a fruit tree orchard!

The people were the nicest people ever…and the pie???

The MOST DELICIOUS I have ever tasted! YUM, YUM…

Today's "Bible Pick 'Ems" reminded me of that little orchard:

"[The LORD says] 'I am the one who answers your prayers and cares for you. I am like a tree that is always green; all your fruit comes from me.' Let those who are wise understand these things. Let those with discernment listen carefully. The paths of the LORD are true and right, and righteous people live by walking in them." (Hosea 14:8-9)

What a lovely picture!

God demonstrates His loving care – He listens to our prayers, and He answers them.

He is the source of our nourishment! He is a tree that never dies – His fruit is all we need!

I have this picture in my mind of myself sitting under a giant tree, relaxing in the shade - and then when I'm hungry, I just reach up and pick a piece of fruit to eat.

It's kinda like what I do with "Bible Pick 'Ems" -

God is the Tree, and His Word is the Fruit.

Each time I go to Scripture, there is something *good to eat.* Something that nourishes my soul. Something that is pure, and good, and satisfying!

Hosea reminds us that we need to listen, learn, and benefit from God's Word.

We need God's wisdom – "Lord, help us to understand."

We need discernment – "Lord, help us to listen carefully."

We need guidance – "Lord, show us the way to go."

It is only by walking in God's ways that we can live in His power and hear His voice.

Without God's guidance we are lost –

He is the difference between life and death…

"Those who are wise will take all this to heart…" (Psalm 107:43)

"But for those who are righteous, the way is not steep and rough. You are a God who does what is right, and you smooth out the path ahead of them."

(Isaiah 26:7)

We must always remember that God cares for us continually – His love knows no bounds!

What a wonderful promise...

...what a wonderful comfort!

We rest in the hands of the Almighty!!

How does God nourish you?

Linked today with Peggy at SOAKING ON SONDAY

"When in doubt, search God out!"

DEUTERONOMY - The Checklist

I've been with out-of-town guests this weekend.

My cousins!

It's been great fun. We've talked, we've eaten, we've laughed, we've hugged...

But I've been super-busy.

So, will you allow me to do another re-post? (I didn't hear anything, so I'm going with YES!!)

This was originally posted on July 26, 2010:

It’s a competitive world, isn’t it?!

It seems like everyone is caught up in the "rat race" – always trying to get ahead, make more money, be more popular, look younger, beat the other guy – WIN, WIN, WIN!

There's a lot of pressure to succeed.

I once saw a license plate frame on a fancy sports car – "He who dies with the most toys, wins!"

Can you imagine a more futile life purpose?

Unfortunately, that's how most of the world operates. Thinking they're in control, people only look to fulfill their selfish desires. It's all about "me" – and being better than "you."

As Christians, we're supposed to be different…right?!

But are you like me?

Sometimes I get caught up in my own form of spiritual "rat race." I put a lot of pressure on myself to DO more for God – and then I chastise myself when I fall short and fail.

Am I dotting all those saintly *i's* and crossing all those godly *t's*?

Sometimes I run through a "checklist" – Bible Study, check…prayer, check…go to church, check…tithe, check…oops, could do a little more serving – oh man, I'm such a failure as a Christian.

Just the other day, I was feeling a little frustrated. Couldn't escape the feeling that I wasn't doing everything God wanted me to do. As a matter of fact, what DID He want me to do? So, I turned to His Word – "Lord, speak to me…"

And He did!

Today's "Bible Pick 'Ems" comes from Deuteronomy. And these verses told me exactly what God wants from me:

"…what does the LORD your God require of you? He requires only that you fear the LORD your God, and live in a way that pleases him, and love him and serve him with all your heart and soul…Look, the highest heavens and the earth and everything in it all belong to the LORD…And he chose you…You must fear the LORD your God and worship him and cling to him…He alone is your God, the only one who is worthy of your praise…Show love to the LORD your God by walking in his ways and holding tightly to him."

(Deuteronomy 10:12, 14-15, 20a, 21a / 11:22b)

The checklist just became really easy…

Fear the Lord.
Live in a way that pleases Him.
Love Him and serve Him with all your heart and soul.
Worship Him.
Praise Him.
Cling to Him.
Walk in His ways.
Hold tightly to Him.

Lord, I can do that!!! – Check!

Are you *measuring* yourself by the right yardstick?

Linked today with Peggy at SOAKING ON SONDAY


"When in doubt, search God out!"

LUKE - Happy New Year!

A new year.

I can hardly believe that it's already 2012.

Remember when everyone was freaked out that the world was going to stop when it turned midnight on December 31, 1999? A new year, a new century, a new millennium was looming. All the computers would blow up, there would be massive black-outs, a technological Armageddon was supposed to occur.

Well, it didn't.

And now it is TWELVE years later.

Sometimes I feel like a modern-day Rip Van Winkle. Did I sleep away the last 20 years? That must be it – there is no other explanation for the fact that I am closing in on 60 years old…(thank goodness for smaller fonts!)

So, as I write these words, I am ending another year in my life. I am reflective. I ponder the last months. I think about the many things that have happened. There has been some wonderful stuff, for sure. But overall, it's been a year of challenge.

Truthfully? I'm entering 2012 a bit frayed around the edges – a little down, a little anxious, a little weary.

I hope I make it to midnight – so I can stick my head out the front door and mumble, "Happy New Year!" (Will "The Hub" make it so I can at least kiss him?? To be determined…)

So, I have done today's "Bible Pick 'Ems" with a desperate need for a word from the Lord. A timely word, an apropos word, a word that speaks to my need. A word that ushers in a new year with hope.

God does not disappoint.

Here are His words:

"And so I tell you, keep on asking, and you will receive what you ask for. Keep on seeking, and you will find. Keep on knocking, and the door will be opened to you. For everyone who asks, receives. Everyone who seeks, finds. And to everyone who knocks, the door will be opened…how much more will your heavenly Father give the Holy Spirit to those who ask him." (Luke 11:9-10, 13)

Hmmm.

I ask myself my year-end questions in view of this passage.

What am I asking for?

What am I seeking?

What doors am I knocking on?

It's difficult sometimes to get this straight in my mind. It's harder to get it straight in my heart.

Because there were many things I asked for in 2011 that did NOT happen. Many questions that I was seeking answers for, that were NOT found. Quite a few doors that I knocked on that were NOT opened.

So, what do I do with that?

I will not question the Word of God – especially when the words are written in RED! Jesus speaks – I will listen!

Therefore, I must question my questions, I think.

It's all a matter of perspective.

Am I not receiving things that I ask for because I'm asking for the wrong things? Or am I asking for them in the wrong way?

Are my questions not being answered because I want a certain answer? In a certain way? At a certain time? (Read: my answer, my way, my time)

Are the doors I'm knocking on not being opened because they are doors of my own choosing? Am I leaning on my own understanding for direction and guidance?

Is God really and truly answering my prayers – but I'm just not recognizing it?

Hmmm…

I believe that there is a clue here in these verses.

And it has nothing to do with the end results. It isn't about the things, the answers, the doors.

It's all about the asking, the seeking, and the knocking.

You see, God is making something happen to me in the process. Persistence overcomes MY insensitivity, not God's.

He is changing my heart and mind. I am not changing His.

He is all about my relationship to Him. So my persistent, bold prayers help me understand and express the intensity of my need. They make me focus on the bottom line of my need. My need for Him – alone. For Him – only.

There's another very important element at the end of today's "Bible Pick 'Ems."

What does God want to give us?

Good things – yes. Answers – sometimes. Open doors – often.

But what does He really want to give us?

Actually, He has already given it to us – the Holy Spirit.

The Lord wants us to be more and more filled with Him. He wants us to let Him live through us. He desires a closer relationship with us. He wants disciples that resemble and reflect His Son.

Change the perspective of those verses – and it changes everything.

Ask for more of the Holy Spirit…and you will receive Him.

Seek the Lord with all of your heart, your mind, your soul, and your strength…and you will find Him.

Knock on the door of His presence…and you will find the Kingdom thrown wide open.

Lord, as I enter a new year, may I look at You in a different way. May my asking and my seeking and my knocking be directed to You – alone. You – only.

And as I draw close to You – draw close to me.

Happy New Year, Lord.

Where are you asking, seeking, knocking as you enter the new year?

"When in doubt, search God out!"

ECCLESIASTES - Chasing the Wind

Hungry.

We live in a world that is hungry – for wealth, for fame, for power, for pleasure.

People are searching…

And yet, the more they try to get, the more they realize how little they really have.

Almost 3,000 years ago, Solomon spoke about this human dilemma. And yet, because we are all so very human – the insights and applications of his message are relevant and timely today.

I used to think the book of Ecclesiastes was a pretty depressing read – (except for inspiring a catchy little tune from The Byrds in 1965 – "Turn, Turn, Turn.")

Empty, futile, hollow, nothing – the words have a ring of disappointment and disillusionment.

Life is empty, meaningless.

Hey Solomon, way to be Debbie Downer…

But, in the midst of what some might call "gloom and doom," I believe Solomon found truth.

Today's "Bible Pick 'Ems" is key:

"So I decided there is nothing better than to enjoy food and drink and to find satisfaction in work. Then I realized that these pleasures are from the hand of God. For who can…enjoy anything apart from him? God gives wisdom, knowledge, and joy to those who please him." (Ecclesiastes 2:24-26)

Yes, Solomon was a wise man indeed.

In the book of Ecclesiastes, he takes us on a thoughtful journey through his life – reflecting on an analysis of life's experiences and taking a critical look at the true meaning of life.

I think it's crucial to remember that these are the words of someone who *had it all.* Wealth, fame, power, and pleasure. (Would Solomon be the Bill Gates of our day?)

And in the end, he considered it all meaningless – like chasing the wind.

So, in our verses today, is Solomon giving us the advice to "eat, drink, and be merry, for tomorrow we die"? Is he recommending that we make life one big, irresponsible party? Hardly.

Solomon's very honest approach has a purpose. All of his remarks are leading us to the one conclusion that he has found to be true – seek fulfillment and happiness in God alone.

He didn't want to destroy our hope, but he desired to direct our hopes to the only One who can truly fulfill them and give our lives meaning. Solomon affirms the value of knowledge, relationships, work, and pleasure – but only in their proper place.

Everything temporal MUST be seen in light of the eternal.

That's the message of today's verses. Without God, satisfaction is a lost search. No pleasure or happiness is possible without Him. The cure for emptiness is to center on God. His love can fill the emptiness of human experience.

So, I'm reflecting on Solomon's message.

There are many things in this life that I enjoy – I'm sure you do, too. Is that wrong? Absolutely not. It's how we view these things – where we think they come from – that dictates a right spirit about their enjoyment.

Everything comes from the hand of God – a God who chooses to give us abundant blessings!

What does the Bible have to say about wealth, fame, power, and pleasure? Quite a lot – but I choose these examples:

Wealth – "'Yes, a person is a fool to store up earthly wealth but not have a rich relationship with God.'" (Luke 12:21)

Fame – "Therefore, as the Scriptures say, 'If you want to boast, boast only about the LORD.'" (1 Corinthians 1:13)

Power – "Therefore, God elevated him to the place of highest honor and gave him the name above all other names, that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth…and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord…" (Philippians 2:9-11)

Pleasure – "Take delight in the LORD, and he will give you your heart's desires." (Psalms 37:4)

So, Solomon, what would your message be to us today?

I think maybe this:

Take pleasure in what you’re doing now and enjoy life because it comes from God's hand.

True enjoyment in life comes only as you follow God's guidelines for living.

Take each day as a gift from God, and thank Him for it and serve Him in it.

True satisfaction comes from knowing that what you are doing is part of God's purpose for your life.

When you realize that God will evaluate all you do, you should learn to live wisely.

Above all else, strive to know and love God. He alone is the source of Wisdom.

Without God, all is meaningless – like chasing the wind.

Yup, changing my mind a little about the book of Ecclesiastes. It's a brutally honest book – an unapologetic look at the meaninglessness of life.

But, it's also a book of hope.

Listen to Solomon's final words:

"That's the whole story. Here now is my final conclusion: Fear God and obey his commands, for this is everyone's duty." (Ecclesiastes 12:13)

Fear God.

God – the One who sent His Son, Jesus.

Jesus – the One who promised that He alone is "the way, the truth, and the life."

The One who gives us…

…fullness instead of futility.

…love instead of rejection.

…hope instead of despair.

…salvation instead of condemnation.

…eternity instead of emptiness.

The One who gives us…

…Himself.

"'If you try to hang on to your life, you will lose it. But if you give up your life for my sake, you will save it. And what do you benefit if you gain the whole world but lose your own soul? Is anything worth more than your soul?'"

(Matthew 16:25-26)

Are you seeking the things of this world, and hanging onto the things of this life? Is it worth it?

Will you let go?

Seek Him first.

(I'm linked today with Charlotte at Spiritual Sundays, and Peggy at Soaking On SONday. And please feel free to visit me during the week at my other blog, Sharon Sharing God!)

"When in doubt, search God out!"

1 CORINTHIANS - Pay Attention!

I wonder what Paul would think about the world we live in.

Would he be on Facebook? Would he have a Twitter account?

Oh, I'd like to hope not.

Paul was single-minded in his pursuit of God, and I'm not thinking that he would tolerate the way social media turns us all away from what's truly important. How technology makes it all too easy to ignore eternity…

Today's "Bible Pick 'Ems" are his very words:

"I want you to be free from the concerns of this life…I want you to do whatever will help you serve the Lord best, with as few distractions as possible."

(1 Corinthians 7:32, 35)

Can't you just hear Paul saying the same thing today?

Now I'm not slamming social media per se. I'm just echoing what Paul is saying here. People, we need to THINK about what we're doing with our time.

We live in a busy world. It's full of enticing entertainment, and clever gadgets, and a multitude of ways to pursue gratification, or amusement, or escape. In short, it's a world full of distractions.

And, as believers, we cannot afford to be distracted.

Why not?

Because time is short. Because the message of the Good News is desperately needed. Because we have been given a commission.

"And then he told them, 'Go into all the world and preach the Good News to everyone.'" (Matthew 16:15)

Paul took that commission very seriously. He actually travelled to distant corners to preach the Gospel. Because he knew personally what it was like to be awakened by the Light of the World. He knew the power of salvation. He knew how crucial eternal matters are.

Do we?

The enemy has a thousand (a million? bazillion?) ways to sidetrack us. He's very, very good at it. He does NOT want us to serve the Lord. He wants us to worship the world. He wants us unfocused and diverted…

But Paul urges us to let go.

To live as unhindered by the cares of this world as we can. To be as free as possible from anything that might keep us from doing God's work.

Yes, it's important to be responsible to our jobs, our homes, and our families.

But oh, we must love and serve God first. Above all else. With no distractions.

So, let's take today and re-evaluate our lives, and think about how we spend our time.

Let's ask some tough questions.

Are we allowing ourselves to be consumed by the things of the world? Have we gotten sucked into the social media web? Do we spend too much time on our computers –watching TV – playing with *apps* or texting on our phones?

Are we wasting time?

Paul admonishes us, warns us.

If he was here today, I think he'd say something like this, "Make the most of the time before Christ's return. Life is short! Don't allow yourself to be preoccupied with the world."

Every person in every generation should have this sense of urgency about telling the Good News to others.

It is the ONLY thing that matters in the long run.

Thanks, Paul – we needed the reminder.

Do you need to take another look at how you spend your time?

(I am linked today with Charlotte at Spiritual Sundays, and Peggy at Soaking On SONday. Please feel free to join me during the week at my other blog, Sharon Sharing God!)

"When in doubt, search God out!"

2 TIMOTHY - Famous Last Words

You know, "Bible Pick 'Ems" takes me on an interesting journey every week.

Sometimes I have to pick and tug, and ponder and mull over the verses that I find myself reading – like a miner digging away at hidden ore. I have to really search hard for the message God wants me to bring to you.

(Like the time I landed in Leviticus…)

Other times, I find myself smack dab in the middle of abundant riches – verses just full of golden nuggets from the Word.

Today would be one of the rich days.

I have landed in the beginning of 2 Timothy.

Let's start with a little background. The great apostle Paul finds himself in prison – yet again – arrested for preaching the Good News of Christ. Paul, one of the most knowledgeable, influential, and beloved men of history is facing death. He knows that he will soon be executed, and so he writes his final thoughts to his "son" Timothy.

Paul passes on the torch of leadership, reminding Timothy of what is truly important, andencouraging him in the faith. Because of the circumstances, this is the most intimate and moving of all Paul's letters.

So, as we read 2 Timothy, it makes a difference to know that we are reading the last words of this great man of God. And we are wise to pay attention to the words that the Holy Spirit gave him to say at the end of his life.

I love analogies – (I think that's a product of the little *English major* that beats in my heart.) And Paul is so very good at them!

In the first two chapters of 2 Timothy, he uses three images of the believer. Let's explore those a little bit.

First of all, he calls us to be good soldiers of Jesus. Have you ever noticed how the Bible is full of war imagery – battles, soldiers, weapons? I think it does us good to remember that we are not just living life – we are waging war. We fight against unseen enemies, and they are led by the greatest enemy of God – the devil. It is crucial that we fight like a good soldier.

What does that look like?

Paul tells us – "Soldiers don’t get tied up in the affairs of civilian life, for then they cannot please the officer who enlisted them." (2 Timothy 2:4)

Hmmm…sounds like an admonition to have our eyes on heavenly matters – to be focused clearly on eternity. To concentrate our efforts on pleasing our commanding officer – our Lord Jesus Christ, the Captain of our souls.

Second, Paul tells us to be approved workers. And he gives us an idea of what that means.

"Work hard so you can present yourself to God and receive his approval. Be a good worker, one who does not need to be ashamed and who correctly explains the word of truth." (2 Timothy 2:15)

A good worker focuses not on the paycheck, but on the approval of the boss. To that end, a good worker works hard. He works with integrity and honesty. He pays attention to detail, and strives for excellence. He focuses on truth.

And finally, Paul revisits the imagery of being an athlete. He has previously called us to run the race before us with endurance – to press on to the finish line – to run the race to win.

How can we do this?

Paul says, "…athletes cannot win the prize unless they follow the rules."

(2 Timothy 2:5)

The rules dictate the way the race is run. They make the runner effective. Sounds like we need the Guidebook – the Word of God. This is where we learn the rules – and learn how to follow them correctly.

These are great words at any time. But picture this – what if you were leaning in at the bars of a dank and dark prison cell? What if in the shadows you could just barely see a thin and haggard man? What if his voice was barely above a whisper, and you had to still yourself to hear what he was saying?

And you did this because you knew it was his last message.

Oh yes, Paul’s words resonate deeply, don't they?

And as you listen in, all of a sudden the voice grows stronger, and these words ring out loud and clear in today's "Bible Pick 'Ems":

"…the word of God cannot be chained. So I am willing to endure anything if it will bring salvation and eternal glory in Christ Jesus to those God has chosen…

If we die with him,

we will also live with him.

If we endure hardship,

we will reign with him.

…he remains faithful,

for he cannot deny who he is.

...God's truth stands firm like a foundation stone with this inscription:

'The LORD knows those who are his…'" (2 Timothy 2:9-13, 19)

Famous last words.

Yes, Paul, I hear you loud and clear…

Hallelujah!

Read 2 Timothy for yourself – and heed the wise words of a man of deep faith, undying love, constant hope, tenacious conviction, and profound insight.

(Linked today with Charlotte at Spiritual Sundays, and Peggy at Soaking On SONday. Please feel free to join me during the week at my other blog, Sharon Sharing God!)

"When in doubt, search God out!"

HAGGAI - Light My Fire!

What?

You want me to do what, Lord?!

Ever feel like God has called you to do something for which you feel woefully ill-equipped and inadequate? Do you feel daunted and overwhelmed? Does your courage disappear and your determination melt?

Sometimes we look at the things God asks us to do and we say within ourselves, "I can’t."

Sometimes He calls us to do something – a ministry, speaking to an unbeliever, go on a mission, give more time and money to His work, lead a Bible Study or small group. Sometimes He asks us to feel something – forgiveness for someone, love for an enemy, courage to face a trial, trust in His timing and His ways. Sometimes He pushes us to think in a new way – turning our backs on the values of the world, letting go of pursuing wealth or security, refusing to live in a me-centered way.

Whatever it is – have you ever felt like what God was asking you to do was downright impossible?

A long time ago, about 25 centuries to be exact, a voice was heard – Haggai. He knew what was important and what had to be done, and he challenged God's people to respond.

Haggai was the first of the postexilic prophets. In 586 BC, the armies of Babylon had destroyed the Temple in Jerusalem and taken the Israelites captive. In 538 BC, King Cyrus of Persia decreed that the Jews could return to their city and rebuild the Temple.

Oh, they began the work – but opposition and apathy brought things to a standstill. (Ezra 4:4-5)

Haggai called them into action.

Today's "Bible Pick 'Ems" is in two parts. First of all, listen to Haggai's exhortation:

"This is what the LORD of Heaven’s Armies says: Look at what's happening to you! Now go up into the hills, bring down timber, and rebuild my house. Then I will take pleasure in it and be honored, says the LORD." (Haggai 1:7)

At this time, Zerubbabel, the governor of Judah, and Jeshua, the high priest, were key leaders in rebuilding the Temple. They had succeeded in rebuilding the altar, but the work on the Temple itself had slowed.

So, through the words of Haggai, the call has been issued – God has "laid the gauntlet down" so to speak.

What was the response of the people?

"Then Zerubbabel…and Jeshua…and the whole remnant of God's people began to obey the message from the LORD their God…So the LORD sparked the enthusiasm of Zerubbabel…and the enthusiasm of Jeshua…and the enthusiasm of the whole remnant of God's people. They began to work on the house of their God, the LORD of Heaven's Armies…" (Haggai 1:12, 14)

I find this passage so very interesting.

I love how it says the people *began* to obey. Sometimes it's that very first step that's the hardest, isn't it? Are you like me – looking at the WHOLE thing that God has called me to do – and stopping dead in my tracks because it's JUST. TOO. BIG.

God asks for one simple step forward in obedience.

Just walk forward.

He promises to be a lamp to our feet, and a light for our path. Sometimes that path is lit up just one step at a time. That's OK, just start walking…

That’s the response of the people.

What was God's response?

I LOVE THIS!!

God sparked the enthusiasm of the people! HE provided the spiritual impetus, and emotional courage, and physical strength to begin the work! HE responded to their obedience with His power.

I am reminded of this verse: "For God is working in you, giving you the desire and the power to do what pleases him." (Philippians 2:13)

Yes, God will work in our hearts if we let Him. He will change our desires, and infuse us with His power.

He will be with us – never asking us to do something that He will not enable us to do.

The Israelites began their rebuilding on September 21. On October 17, the LORD sent another message. Listen to it carefully, because He's saying it to us, too:

"Be strong, all you people still left in the land. And now get to work, for I am with you…My Spirit remains among you, just as I promised…So do not be afraid." (Haggai 2:4-5)

I am claiming these verses for a particular trial that our family is facing right now. God is calling me to rebuild a stronger faith. I feel woefully ill-equipped and inadequate – daunted and overwhelmed. My courage has disappeared and my determination has melted.

The task of trusting Him seems JUST. TOO. BIG.

However, I will begin to obey. I will take that one, small, *mustard seed* step of faith forward. And I will trust that God will light the path for me – one step at a time.

He will spark my enthusiasm. He will give me the desire and the power to please Him. He will help me be strong.

His Spirit will remain within me – and I will NOT be afraid.

How about you? Do you have any "Temple building" that God's calling you to do? What will be YOUR response?

(Linked today with Charlotte and Ginger at Spiritual Sundays, and Peggy at Soaking On SONday. Please feel free to hop on over to my other blog during the week - Sharon Sharing God)

"When in doubt, search God out!"

JEREMIAH - God Defines Success

I do not have a newspaper subscription.

It's too depressing.

However, every time I log onto AOL to get my emails, I am confronted with little *news bites* all over the page.

Snippets of what's happening in the world, in politics, in sports, in medicine, in entertainment…

I suppose it's a good thing to keep updated on things – but like I said before, I find it all a little depressing.

The human race is just so consumed with itself.

Fame, fortune, power…

These are the things that get people admired, envied, emulated –

But why?

These are not lasting things – they are things of the world. And all too often, people toss their values aside in pursuit of them.

The human race – not so different today as it was in the time of Jeremiah. Society was deteriorating economically, politically, and spiritually. Wars dominated the world scene. God's Word was deemed offensive.

Sound familiar?

God appointed Jeremiah to bring His word to "nations and kingdoms." It was Jeremiah'smission to warn all the nations of the world about God's judgment for sin. Because God looks at things in a different way…

Today's "Bible Pick 'Ems" is what God has to say:

"This is what the LORD says: 'Don't let the wise boast in their wisdom, or the powerful boast in their power, or the rich boast in their riches. But those who wish to boast should boast in this alone; that they truly know me and understand that I am the LORD who demonstrates unfailing love and who brings justice and righteousness to the earth, and that I delight in these things. I, the LORD, have spoken!'" (Jeremiah 9:23-24)

You see, God places a high priority on knowing Him personally. He values justice, righteousness, and love more than fame, fortune, and power.

God defines success in a different way than the world does. He considered Jeremiah a success – because he obeyed God faithfully. Regardless of opposition and personal cost, Jeremiah courageously proclaimed the word of God. He was obedient to his calling.

We, too, have a responsibility to bring God's Word to a fallen world – to tell others about the consequences of sin and the hope that God offers. We have a responsibility to live differently– to define ourselves by God's values and priorities.

We must press on to know Him more and more – to obey Him faithfully.

God's approval alone should be our standard for service – and our standard for success.

As far as I'm concerned, AOL can keep its headlines – for these are not the stories of people following hard after the LORD.

On the other hand, we have a calling, my friends – are you ready to answer?

(Linked today with Charlotte and Ginger at Spiritual Sundays, and Peggy at Soaking On SONday. Please feel free to hop on over to my other blog during the week - Sharon Sharing God)

"When in doubt, search God out!"

LUKE - Giving All You've Got

I own a solid gold necklace. It is a beautiful piece of jewelry.

And it's heavy – literally!

The price of gold is currently around $1500 an ounce. So this necklace would definitely be, as they say, *worth its weight in gold!* It’s a treasure – and it would be quite a gift if I gave it away, wouldn't it?

Now what if I showed you two pennies – two tarnished, beat-up pennies? They've been sitting in a dish of spare change for who knows how long. They're not worth much. In fact, in today's economy, they're probably not even worth two cents!

Back in the day, they could buy something – a piece of candy or such. But now, the penny is so worthless, we don't even like having them rattling around in our pockets. Many stores have little trays where you can "take a penny, leave a penny." If you don't want your pennies with you, leave them.

So, giving away these two pennies wouldn’t be much of a gift, would it?

Today’s "Bible Pick ‘Ems" is a story about a woman who gave something away…

"While Jesus was in the Temple, he watched the rich people dropping their gifts in the collection box. Then a poor widow came by and dropped in two small coins. 'I tell you the truth,' Jesus said, 'this poor widow has given more than all the rest of them. For they have given a tiny part of their surplus, but she, poor as she is, has given everything she has.'" (Luke 21:1-4)

Jesus was in the area of the Temple called the Court of Women. In this area were seven boxes in which worshipers could deposit the Temple tax and six boxes for freewill offerings.It appears that Jesus continued watching the giving for some time, and He observed a number of wealthy persons making gifts.

This woman gave a freewill offering of two mites. At the time, a mite was the smallest of copper coins, normally equal to just 1/8 of a cent! Though it might seem that her offering was small, her gift was a sacrifice, for it was all that she had.

Today, I'm not going to talk about financial giving – I'd like to expand the story beyond the issue of money.

The question I would like to pose is this – What are you giving to God of YOURSELF?

The issue here is not that the woman had given more as to value and substance – but that she had cast in more in proportion to what she had.

Her gift was counted as more by Christ, and more highly valued and esteemed by Him, because Jesus – the One who sees the heart, and knows all things – knew that she had given FROM HER HEART.

Yes, my friends, the Lord desires no greater gift than the gift of yourself. He is to be loved with all your powers and capabilities. He doesn't want offerings – He wants you to KNOW Him and to LOVE Him.

Mark 12:29 sums up this greatest gift: "The LORD our God is the one and only LORD. And you must love the LORD your God with all your heart, all your soul, all your mind, and all your strength."

Jesus uses the poor widow's offering to teach an important lesson.

A gift is not to be evaluated by its size, but by a comparison of the gift with the total possessed by the giver.

In the secret, innermost part of your heart, have you laid your life on the altar? Have you presented everything you have to Him?

May God help us to be like this faithful woman as we give our hearts in His name.

(Linked today with Charlotte and Ginger at Spiritual Sundays, and Peggy at Soaking On SONday. Please feel free to hop on over to my other blog during the week - Sharon Sharing God)

"When in doubt, search God out!"

DEUTERONOMY - What to Do?

It’s a competitive world, isn’t it?!

It seems like everyone is caught up in the “rat race” – always trying to get ahead, make more money, be more popular, look younger, beat the other guy – WIN, WIN, WIN!

There’s a lot of pressure to succeed.

I once saw a license plate frame on a fancy sports car – “He who dies with the most toys, wins!”

Can you imagine a more futile life purpose?

Unfortunately, that’s how most of the world operates. Thinking they’re in control, people only look to fulfill their selfish desires. It’s all about “me” – and being better than “you.”

As Christians, we’re supposed to be different…right?!

But are you like me? Sometimes I get caught up in my own form of spiritual “rat race.” I put a lot of pressure on myself to DO more for God – and then I chastise myself when I fall short and fail. Am I dotting all those saintly “i’s” and crossing all those godly “t’s”? Sometimes I run through a “checklist” – Bible Study, check…prayer, check…go to church, check…tithe, check…oops, could do a little more serving – oh man, I’m such a failure as a Christian.

Just the other day, I was feeling a little frustrated. Couldn’t escape the feeling that I wasn’t doing everything God wanted me to do. As a matter of fact, what DID He want me to do? So, I turned to His Word – “Lord, speak to me…”

And He did!

Today’s “Bible Pick ‘Ems” comes from Deuteronomy. And these verses told me exactly what God wants from me:

“…what does the LORD your God require of you? He requires only that you fear the LORD your God, and live in a way that pleases him, and love him and serve him with all your heart and soul…Look, the highest heavens and the earth and everything in it all belong to the LORD…And he chose you…You must fear the LORD your God and worship him and cling to him…He alone is your God, the only one who is worthy of your praise…Show love to the LORD your God by walking in his ways and holding tightly to him.”

(Deuteronomy 10:12, 14-15, 20a, 21a / 11:22b)

The checklist just became really easy…

Fear the Lord.
Live in a way that pleases Him.
Love Him and serve Him with all your heart and soul.
Worship Him.
Praise Him.
Cling to Him.
Walk in His ways.
Hold tightly to Him.

Lord, I can do that!!! – Check!


“When in doubt, search God out!”