Category: Christian Living

Playing the Long Game

Sitting across the chess board from my son, he explained the rules and basic strategies of the game. I’d grown up playing checkers but had never ventured into the more complicated world of chess. My son’s agile mind seemed more adept at managing the pieces and remembering the various rules for moving them. After he’d beat me, yet again, he explained his strategy: “See the future.” I realized he wasn’t playing one move at a time but mapping out multiple options and anticipating countermoves. He understood the importance of playing the long game. 

Author and teacher Kelly Minter draws a comparison between chess, checkers, and our spiritual lives saying, “I am queen of the short game…On my bad days, I measure God’s favor toward me (or lack thereof) by whatever has gone right or wrong that day. When I do this, I forget that not only is God after the long game in my life—my personal sanctification, spiritual growth, blessing of others, heart growing to look more like Christ’s—He’s also after His long game. In other words, God cares deeply about our individual lives, and at the same time, He wants to use us in His far bigger story of redemption. We’re meant for something much larger than ourselves, but this is easy to forget in our instant gratification and selfie culture.” (p. 145)

The story of Joseph in Genesis 37-50 is just one of many in the Bible that illustrates this. He shows amazing trust in God and a willingness to endure hardship for the Lord’s greater purposes. Consider Joseph’s explanation when he reveals his identity to his brothers who had sold him into slavery 22 years earlier: “I am your brother Joseph, the one you sold into Egypt! And now, do not be distressed and do not be angry with yourselves for selling me here, because it was to save lives that God sent me ahead of you. For two years now there has been famine in the land, and for the next five years there will be no plowing and reaping. But God sent me ahead of you to preserve for you a remnant on earth and to save your lives by a great deliverance.” (Genesis 45:4-7, NIV) 

Instead of being vengeful towards his brothers for selling him or angry at God for allowing him to endure such hardship, Joseph focuses on the good that resulted from his presence in Egypt. He sees that his oversight of the food storage and distribution not only saved Egyptian lives but would ultimately preserve his family line as well. Kelly Minter explains, “So far in our study we’ve been mostly looking at Joseph’s story from a checkerboard perspective—lots of reactionary and sometimes unrelated moves that don’t seem to be governed by a bigger plan. We’re finally at a point where we’re beginning to see God’s much bigger plan of redemption playing out, a plan marked by patience and forethought. We’re beginning to see that God, in and through all the little moves of His people in our story—some sacrificial, some selfish—is working out a great plan to turn the house of Jacob into the nation of Israel in the land of Egypt. 

One might say all the players in Joseph’s story were playing checkers while God was playing chess. Except God isn’t playing a game with kings, queens, pawns, and knights. He’s writing a story of redemption that’s all about one King whose name is Jesus—the King who will rescue His people from their sins.” (p.149)

We know this ultimate truth about Jesus, but sometimes I wonder how many of us let it impact us daily. It’s commonplace lately to hear stories about lives filled with hurts and hardships. Many of us are grieving the loss of our pre-COVID lives. In the past year we’ve lost loved ones and livelihoods; we’ve grappled with depression and anxiety; we’ve struggled with loneliness and longed for community. We’re under pressure at work and at home. Marriages and families are crumbling. Some of us are suffering from physical ailments or caring for others with major medical problems. And to make matters worse, our nation continues to battle political strife and deep division. 

With so many sad, hard, and negative things happening all around us, I wonder sometimes if we’re doing exactly what Kelly Minter describes: getting so mired in the details that we’re forgetting God’s bigger plans. Is it possible that these hardships we’re facing could be reminding us of our need for Him? Instead of magnifying the difficulties in our lives, perhaps we should try a different tactic by trusting God to use them for good. When we’re grieving unwelcome changes or staggering losses, let’s look for the new things He might be doing.

Think of the hardships Joseph endured that preserved his family line, which ultimately brought us Jesus, our Redeemer. Because of Him, we have hope in the midst of every struggle. We have purpose and fulfillment. Our foundation is secure. Jesus is the answer to all the world’s problems and to our personal ones as well. This isn’t just a nice “Christian” thing to say—it’s the truth. So, if you call Him your Savior and Lord, then live like you believe it. Let your faith in Him steady you in these trying times and then ask God how He wants to use you as part of His bigger plan. It’s time to put away the reactionary thinking of checkers and to trust in God’s strategy for His long term plans.

Even though the world feels like it’s falling apart, rest assured that Jesus is holding all things together:

“He is the radiance of the glory of God and the exact imprint of his nature, and he upholds the universe by the word of his power.” (Hebrews 1:3a ESV)

“He is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn of all creation. For by him all things were created, in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or dominions or rulers or authorities—all things were created through him and for him. And he is before all things, and in him all things hold together.” (Colossians 1:15-17 ESV)

If you’ve been letting the troubles in your life or our world drag you down, maybe it’s time to change your focus. Let “There Was Jesus” by Zach Williams and Dolly Parton remind you that you already have exactly what you need.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VZXRIw5uBuY

Kelly Minter, Finding God Faithful: A Study on the Life of Joseph, Lifeway Press, 2019.

Discipline Isn’t Punishment

Cradling my broken arm in his hands, the physical therapist gently straightened it and bent it, testing for flexibility. I felt vulnerable without my wrist and elbow braces but wanted to do what was needed to help the healing process. After kneading the muscles and tendons around my elbow, he said, “I’m not gonna lie to you, this next exercise will hurt.” With that, he began rotating my lower arm slowly back and forth. I squeezed my eyes shut as every muscle and tendon surrounding my fractures tensed with searing pain.

Before leaving, I asked the therapist how I could differentiate between “good” and “bad” pain. Knowing which motions would help the healing process would motivate me to press on, even when it hurt. I see a parallel here with the emotional pain we endure through difficult circumstances. Kelly Minter explains, “There’s a big difference between automatically viewing our suffering as God’s punishment on us and recognizing His restorative discipline, which can sometimes be painful.” (p. 98) Some hard things we experience are for our benefit. Kelly suggests reading this passage from Hebrews for further study:

 “Endure hardship as discipline; God is treating you as his children. For what children are not disciplined by their father? If you are not disciplined—and everyone undergoes discipline—then you are not legitimate, not true sons and daughters at all. Moreover, we have all had human fathers who disciplined us and we respected them for it. How much more should we submit to the Father of spirits and live! They disciplined us for a little while as they thought best; but God disciplines us for our good, in order that we may share in his holiness. No discipline seems pleasant at the time, but painful. Later on, however, it produces a harvest of righteousness and peace for those who have been trained by it. Therefore, strengthen your feeble arms and weak knees. ‘Make level paths for your feet, so that the lame may not be disabled, but rather healed.’” (Hebrews 12:7-13, NIV)

The word “discipline” comes from two closely related Greek words: “Paideia” and ”Paideuo.” Both involve correcting, instructing, and educating another person.   The words were originally used to describe rearing children but were later used in reference to teaching believers who were young in the faith. One word that was not part of either definition was “punishment.” There are nine different Greek words for punishment, but none of them includes these words. Discipline has nothing to do with revenge or seeking justice after someone has violated a moral code. Although our culture sometimes uses the words “discipline” and “punishment” interchangeably, they are two entirely different concepts.  Discipline is not for retribution, but for our benefit.

The Hebrews passage tells us that hardship is a form of discipline. This means the difficult experiences we face in life can be used for good. Sometimes God allows painful circumstances to refine our faith or to build our trust in Him. Other times, He wants to get our attention or to show us we’re putting our hope in something other than Him. Occasionally He allows positive things in our lives to be removed to make way for better ones. With our eyes on God, even the worst situations can make us spiritually stronger.

I’d never paid much attention to the last part of the Hebrews passage until breaking my arm a few years ago. It says we should accept discipline to “strengthen our feeble arms” so that “the lame may not be disabled, but rather healed.” If I had been unwilling to do the painful therapy required to restore strength and flexibility to my arm, I would’ve been disabling myself in the long run. Although my fractured bones would have healed, the stiff tendons and muscles would not have become flexible again without some serious effort. The result would have been limited mobility that would’ve hindered my daily tasks and physical activities.

Similarly, submitting to God’s discipline heals and strengthens us so that we don’t go through life emotionally and spiritually stunted. Trusting God through challenging times also keeps us from becoming bitter or from wallowing in self-pity. Instead, we lean into Him through the pain, knowing that He is using it to produce a “harvest of righteousness and peace for those who have been trained by it.”

When we let God use pain to draw us to Him, we open ourselves to receive His peace, healing, and strength. Is there some hardship in your life that the Lord may be using to discipline you? Will you let him do it? Remember, it’s for your good and His glory.

Kelly Minter points us back to truth in light of this hard topic: “As we close today, let’s contemplate the immense love God the Father has for us in sending His beloved Son, Jesus, to be our atonement…How can we justify ourselves when our sin is ever before us? The truth is we can’t. And that’s preceisely why Jesus has done it for us. What hymn says it better than…’It is Well with My Soul’”? (p. 119)

Click on the link and be encouraged by Lauren Daigle’s version of this beloved hymn.

Kelly Minter, Finding God Faithful: A Study on the Life of Joseph, Lifeway Press 2019.

Looking Back, Looking Ahead

One of the first things we learn when driving a car is how to keep our eyes on the road ahead while glancing in the rearview mirror regularly to see what’s behind us. This makes good sense with operating a vehicle, but also with navigating our lives. Turning the page on my Advent devotional, I found a set of questions designed to reflect on the past twelve months and to prepare for the year ahead. The exercise didn’t take me long and brought some clarity to what I’ve experienced this year. So, before we charge into 2021, let’s take some time to do this together. I’ll share some of my answers if you promise to write your own at home too. (Maybe you can write one of your answers in the comments too, if you’re feeling generous.)

1) How did I see God at work in 2020?

As the COVID-19 pandemic shut down the world, the Lord used it to slow me down and to help me see the noise and distractions that hinder my connection with Him. He’s teaching me to be more engaged in the present instead of always anticipating what’s next. I also saw God use the end of my mom’s life to develop more authentic relationships with my extended family members. Now, how did you see God at work in 2020? Take a minute to write your answer before you keep reading.

2) What has God taught me about His character?

He is trustworthy and always at work behind the scenes. When I’m feeling anxious or afraid, I’m learning to pray, “I trust you Jesus” and to lay my concerns before Him. Now, what has God taught you about His character this year? 

3) What has God taught me about myself?

My drive for efficiency and productivity often causes me to push past my emotions. Through the loss of my mom, I’m learning to acknowledge my feelings and to be honest about them with others. The Lord showed me that avoiding emotions causes them to leak out in ways that can be hurtful to others and harmful to me. So, what has God taught you about yourself this year? Take some time with this and be honest.

4) What was an unexpected joy this past year? 

My younger son launched to college and my husband and I became empty nesters. Although I braced myself for this significant life transition, it was actually much sweeter and more enjoyable than anticipated. With our kids thriving on their own, it freed us to enjoy our marriage and home in new ways. What was an unexpected joy for you this year?

5) What was an unexpected sorrow? 

Last year at this time I didn’t know my mom would be leaving us so soon. Her cancer diagnosis in July and passing in October were a lot to process in a short time. How about you? Was there an unexpected sorrow in your year?

6) What is one thing you’re grateful for in 2020? 

This year I’m grateful for the hope I have in Christ. Sitting with my mom at the moment she passed away made this more real to me than ever before. Looking beyond the obvious hardships of this year, what is one thing you can find to be grateful for in 2021?

7) What is one thing you’re proud of in 2020? 

I’m most proud of writing a new Bible study called Extraordinary Prayer: Using God’s Word to Expand Your Prayer Life. I’m grateful for the time and inspiration the Lord gave me to write it. What are you proud of this year?

8) What was the most challenging part of your year? 

For me, it was navigating care for my mom– first with COVID restrictions and then once she was diagnosed with cancer. Taking her to appointments, setting up hospice care, and acting as the point person for all things related to her was intense and draining. Additionally, I was the one communicating with medical workers, family, and friends. All the events around my mom were by far the most challenging experience of my year (and maybe of my life).  What was the most challenging part of your year?

9) What was the highlight of your year? 

For me, it was going to a deeper level in my marriage. Some of this came through sharing pure fun together—a beach vacation before COVID, lazy summer days waterskiing, hikes and bike rides. But much of it also came from sharing painful moments together, like sending our boys to college and realizing we are no longer in the active parenting phase.  Saying goodbye to my mom, shedding many tears, and sharing many prayers together also deepened our marriage. What was the highlight of your year?

10) What’s your prayer for 2021? 

Mine is that the Lord will use me to influence and impact others. I want to spread His kingdom for His glory and the good of other people. I pray He’ll use the Extraordinary Prayer Bible study to draw many hearts into a closer, deeper relationship with Him. I pray that God will continue to use me, develop my gifts, help me to steward my resources, and guide me in whatever 2021 holds.  What’s your prayer for 2021?

In Psalm 77: 11 & 12, the psalmist writes, “I will remember the deeds of the Lord; yes, I will remember your miracles of long ago. I will consider all your works and meditate on all your mighty deeds.” Remembering the Lord’s faithfulness to us bolsters our trust in Him and spurs us on to continue seeking Him. Take some time to reflect on the past year and to prepare yourself for what’s next. You’ll be glad you did.

If you’re excited to share how God has worked, consider posting a comment so that others can celebrate with you.

*Questions for this post were inspired by the Advent 2020 devotional guide produced by shereadstruth.com.

God’s Refining Fire

A tattered newspaper clipping fell to the floor as I turned the pages of an old photo album. Picking it up, I realized it was an article that my mom had saved for over 25 years. At the top of the page there’s a photo of me brimming with youthful exuberance. The paper from 1993 tells the story of my first day as a new high school teacher. I was young and naïve and had agreed to let a reporter spend the day with me, at the request of the school district.

Looking back all these years later, I smirked as I read the reporter’s observations about my Leadership class: “It is quickly obvious that this class will take up much of [Marybeth’s] time. [She] will serve as adviser to the school’s student leaders. She seems energized by the challenge and spends 45 minutes after class talking with the student body president and vice president.” (Michael Bazeley, Tri-Valley Herald, September 9, 1993)

Little did I know at the time that within a few weeks, I’d be crying to my fiancée, wishing I’d never accepted what had seemed like the perfect job for me. The students were used to running the show and didn’t like the changes I wanted to make. I’d had such grand plans for imparting my wisdom to them, but all they wanted was my signature on forms and an adult presence to appease the school administration. Both teacher and students had a lot to learn that year.

That season in my life came to mind when I read Kelly Minter’s questions in Finding God Faithful: ”Have you ever been unhappy with the people God has assigned you to? Have you ever thought, I could do a bang-up job for the Lord if He had just given me different family members, more efficient coworkers, a better church?” (p. 48) That teaching job was one of several times I’ve lamented the situation where God has placed me. 

Minter springboards from these convicting questions to explain how God used Joseph’s time in prison described in Genesis 39 & 40. She says the Lord’s purpose was to refine and prepare Joseph for the work he would do later. Minter explains that God “tests us to grow us, strengthen us, and refine us. The imagery of gold being purified by fire references a certain process of purification. The testing doesn’t depend on what’s passing through the fire, but the sureness of the fire to remove the impurities.” (p. 49)

The idea of God’s refining process appears in the Old Testament book of Malachi, which describes a messenger who will come to God’s people: “But who can endure the day of his coming? Who can stand when he appears? For he will be like a refiner’s fire or a launderer’s soap.” (Malachi 3:2, NIV) Spiritual renewal comes through the testing and cleansing we endure. Refining fire brings precious metal to light, just as strong detergent cleans dirty clothes. The refining process isn’t meant to punish God’s people, but to prepare the way of the Lord. It trains us in obedience so we can be restored to God and can fulfill His purposes for us.*

For me, that first year teaching was a refining process for my character and faith. It was a humbling, difficult season in my life. However, the trials I endured strengthened me and taught me how to interact with a variety of people, solve problems, communicate clearly, organize groups effectively, and cultivate rapport with others. My years working at the high school refined me in ways that I still benefit from today.

Looking at Joseph’s time in prison, it’s clear God used it as a refiner’s fire to prepare him for what was coming. He learned to lead as he worked with the guards and prisoners from all backgrounds. At the same time, he gained experience managing the prison and interacting with Egyptian officials. The Lord had given him the raw materials of leadership and Joseph’s time in prison was what He used to develop that potential.

So, with these things in mind, how would you answer Kelly Minter’s question: “Are you willing to comply with the Lord during these seasons of testing?” (page 49) Is it possible that God is refining you right now? If you’re experiencing challenges, are you willing to ask the Lord what He wants to teach you through them? Is He using people around you to highlight areas that need growth in you?

Let Joseph’s example inspire you. Despite being in prison, he used his gift of leadership and showed consistency of character. By doing this, God’s presence and favor were evident to all who encountered him. Enduring that time of suffering in prison also humbled Joseph and prepared him for the bigger plans God had in store for him. 

The refining process may not be enjoyable, but we can trust God to use it for good. Scripture reassures us of this: “In all this you greatly rejoice, though now for a little while you may have had to suffer grief in all kinds of trials. These have come so that the proven genuineness of your faith—of greater worth than gold, which perishes even though refined by fire—may result in praise, glory and honor when Jesus Christ is revealed.” (1 Peter 1:6-7, NIV)

I pray you’ll trust God in your trials and will submit to the work of refinement He’s doing in you. Maybe He’s preparing you for something else He has planned. Let Him prove your faith is genuine for your good and His glory. Listen to the song “Refiner’s Fire” and make it your prayer today.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MXIzEZ3mkWE

Kelly Minter, Finding God Faithful: A Study on the Life of Joseph, Lifeway Press, 2019.

*Anne Stewart, Commentary on Malachi 3:1-4

Thankful, Even in 2020

Two thousand twenty has been a year for the history books. We’ve struggled through a pandemic, sheltering in place, political divisions, racial turmoil, and economic woes. People are restless, lonely, and struggling.  Anxiety and depression have skyrocketed. While it might be tempting to focus on the negative and see nothing to be thankful for this year, I think that would be short-sighted.

Thanksgiving provides us with an opportunity to pause, step back, and look at the bigger picture. It’s a time to be reminded that no matter how dire the circumstances, there are always reasons to give thanks to God. If you need convincing, consider the Old Testament prophet Habakkuk who penned these words:

Though the fig tree does not bud and there are no grapes on the vines, though the olive crop fails and the fields produce no food,
though there are no sheep in the pen and no cattle in the stalls,
yet I will rejoice in the Lord, I will be joyful in God my Savior. The Sovereign Lord is my strength; he makes my feet like the feet of a deer, he enables me to tread on the heights.  

Habakkuk 3:17-19

Habakkuk wrote this during a time of great distress for Judah, yet he had complete confidence in the eternal security of God’s people. Grapes and olives were daily staples in his time and sheep and cattle were indicators of wealth. So, Habakkuk’s description here shows that he and his contemporaries were lacking resources and comforts. Yet, he was so sure of God that, no matter how dark the day, he had no doubt that the outcome would be good. One commentary explains, “For God’s people there is a glorious future. It may be a long way off, but it is absolutely sure. Thus, in the midst of his gloom and despair, Habakkuk could be an optimist of the first magnitude.”

Instead of focusing on his immediate difficulties, Habakkuk rejoiced knowing God was his savior. He found his strength in the Lord and was able to rise above his circumstances because of Him.

How can you follow Habakkuk’s example by being “an optimist of the first magnitude” despite the hardships 2020 has included? What can you be thankful for as you look back on this year? God’s Word reminds us that there is always room for gratitude when we take our eyes off ourselves and remember His character and blessings.

If you’ve read any of my recent posts, you know what I’ll remember most about 2020 is losing my mom. As we head into Thanksgiving week, I’m preparing for an online celebration of her life. It’s not quite the memorial service I had in mind, but I’m still thankful for the opportunity to celebrate her virtually with others. I keep coming back to one of the passages of Scripture my mom asked to have included in her service:

“Therefore we do not lose heart. Though outwardly we are wasting away, yet inwardly we are being renewed day by day. For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all. So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen, since what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal.” (2 Corinthians 4:16-18, NIV)

In spite of hard and sad circumstances, I’m going to thank God that, in the light of eternity, my troubles are light and momentary. On top of that, they are achieving an eternal glory for me that far surpasses anything the world has to offer. I’m going to be grateful that what is seen is temporary (including pandemics, politics, racism, financial struggles, anxiety, depression, and grief) but what is unseen is eternal (including God’s grace, love, forgiveness, hope, and salvation).

No matter what’s happening now or what takes place in the future, we can rely on the Lord for strength and joy, just as Habakkuk did. His Word gives us concrete reasons to express gratitude this Thanksgiving and always.

Whether you’re gathering with family and friends or celebrating on you own, I hope the poignancy of “The Thanksgiving Song” by Ben Rector will draw you into a posture of thankfulness this week. Wishing you a Happy Thanksgiving, even in 2020!

Halley’s Bible Handbook, Zondervan, 2000. P. 470.

God’s Faithfulness in Suffering

Digging into the first parts of the story of Joseph in Genesis 37 and 39, it’s easy to see why it was adapted into the hit Broadway musical: Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat. It’s a riveting tale of a favored son who had an abundance of self-confidence and not a shred of self-awareness. (We’ll cut him slack since he was only seventeen.) Three paragraphs into the story, we can already see how Joseph alienated himself from his older brothers, fostering a deep resentment in them. By the end of chapter 37, Joseph’s father gave him a special coat to show his favoritism, and his brothers promptly sold him into slavery and faked his death.

Catching up with Joseph in Genesis 39, we see that despite his dire circumstances, God was at work:

“Now Joseph had been taken down to Egypt. Potiphar, an Egyptian who was one of Pharaoh’s officials, the captain of the guard, bought him from the Ishmaelites who had taken him there. The Lord was with Joseph so that he prospered, and he lived in the house of his Egyptian master. When his master saw that the Lord was with him and that the Lord gave him success in everything he did, Joseph found favor in his eyes and became his attendant. Potiphar put him in charge of his household, and he entrusted to his care everything he owned.” (Genesis 39:1-4, NIV, italics added)

Two repeated ideas jump out to me: The Lord was with Joseph and the Lord gave him success in everything he did. Joseph experienced God’s blessing and presence while he worked as a slave. Good things and hard things were happening simultaneously for him. The coexistence of these two extremes occurs often in our lives, but we struggle living in this tension. Kelly Minter explains, “In our western culture, we tend to think of God’s blessing and our suffering as mutually exclusive. We think of blessing as all the good things happening in the middle of all the good times. But in Joseph’s story we discover something that challenges our mind-set, even as believers: Certain blessings can only come in the midst of our suffering. In Egypt, Joseph was rising in power and position. He had found favor with his master, and his work was prospering. Still, all these blessing fell upon Joseph in a land far away from his family and in a culture that didn’t worship his God. The blessings were abounding in the midst of his suffering.” (p. 34) 

Those words resonate deeply with me right now as I grieve losing my mom to cancer not long ago. Sitting with her daily in her final months created many opportunities to observe God’s blessings in the midst of her suffering. Despite battling pain and discomfort, my mom continued to flash a smile and offer a word of thanks to every person who entered her room. Numerous caregivers commented about sensing a different spirit in her. Some recognized it was the Holy Spirit; all felt drawn in by the atmosphere He created.

In one of her last lucid days, I sat by my mom’s bedside reading Amazing Faith, the biography of Bill Bright, a dynamic and prayerful Christian leader. Reading together became a regular practice for us while she was on hospice. Every now and then I’d stop to make sure she was still awake and tracking with me. At one point, I looked up to find tears streaming down her face. Surprised and confused, I asked, “Mom, why are you crying?” With a tissue clenched in her fist, she gestured toward the book and said, “That story reminds me of God’s faithfulness. He’s just so good!” Within seconds, the tears were flowing for me too. It struck me that in spite of her broken body and failing health, my mom recognized God’s faithfulness. She saw this not just in the book we were reading, but in her life as well.

God’s Word was a great source of comfort for my mom. She believed Jesus’ many promises, including this one: “In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.” (John 16:33, NIV) No doubt she also remembered Scripture refers to Jesus as Immanuel, which means “God with us.” (Matthew 1:23) What solace we can find resting in the knowledge that God is with us in good times and suffering, just as He was with Joseph. 

I wonder, is it difficult for you to trust the Lord in challenging times? Are you tempted to get bitter or to wallow in self-pity when life isn’t going your way? Perhaps it’s time to re-focus your attention on the truth that God is with you all the time. Will you believe Jesus and take heart knowing He has overcome the world, even when you can’t see how He’s working things out? Do you want to find God faithful like Joseph did? If you answered “yes,” keep journeying with me as we study Genesis 39-50 in these next few weeks. Commit to marinating in God’s Word and watch how it changes you for the better.

I saw this in my mom, who continued to bless others with her love and gratitude until she breathed her last. Never was there a trace of self-pity or bitterness. Peace, love, and warmth were the defining characteristics of her final months of life. Her favorite hymn was “Great is Thy Faithfulness” and she asked to have played at her memorial service as a testament of God’s goodness in her life. I hope you’ll enjoy this version that we listened to a few days before she died:

If you’d like to join me in celebrating my mom’s life, you can participate in the live stream of her memorial service on November 28 at 2pm by clicking here.

Kelly Minter, Finding God Faithful: A Study on the Life of Joseph, Lifeway Press, 2019.

Patterns through Generations

The large trunks sat untouched in the attic for years, gathering dust in a dark corner. Sometimes one of my boys or their cousins would ask if they could rummage inside them on a rainy day. And although my mom was usually a pushover for her grandkids’ requests, the answer about opening the trunks was always the same: No. She didn’t have an interest in being reminded of her painful childhood. 

Recently my brothers opened those trunks and found a treasure trove of old photos and other mementos dating back over 100 years. Among our favorite finds were dozens of pictures of our mom’s mother—the grandmother we never had. She contracted tuberculosis when my mom was six and eventually moved to a sanitarium in hopes of recovering there. Because TB is airborne, my grandmother couldn’t hug my mom or even hold her on her lap. They had to remain on opposites sides of the room during her brief, infrequent visits home. Three years later, my grandmother died in the sanitarium at age 32, leaving behind a grieving, young husband and a nine-year-old daughter. For my mom, the trunks were filled with reminders of what could have been.

With the newly discovered photos, we pieced together parts of our grandmother’s life we’d never known. There were pictures of her on high school sports teams, clowning around with friends, on a trip to see relatives in Europe, and on dates with my grandpa at the Jersey shore. This woman who had always been such a mystery came to life for us. She seemed funny, energetic, fashionable, and just a bit mischievous. We were surprised and delighted to discover the many interests we shared with her—sports, travel, friends, and the beach, to name a few.

The generations that go before us pass down their genetic code, but they also lay foundations and patterns in our lives, both good and bad. We often follow in the footsteps of those who have preceded us, whether we mean to or not. We see this regularly in the Bible, where God’s people follow familiar paths from one generation to the next.

Take, Abraham, for example. Before becoming the father of the Israelites, the Lord called him to leave his home and travel to a different land. He was 75 when he obeyed God by taking his wife, nephew, servants, and belongings to make a new start in the land of Canaan (described in Genesis 12).

In the opening session of Finding God Faithful: A Study on the Life of Joseph, author and teacher Kelly Minter paints a picture of Abraham’s life. She describes his faithfulness to the Lord that laid the foundation for his great grandson, Joseph, who is the topic of her study. Minter highlights five key aspects of Abraham’s life that proved to be true in Joseph’s life as well. Abraham’s and Joseph’s obedience led to an outpouring of blessing for their descendants and for the entire world, including us. 

Here are the key points from Kelly Minter’s first video teaching:

1) When God sets you apart it’s an invitation to relationship with Him.

The call of Abram in Genesis 12:3 showed that God intended to use Him to bless the entire world: “All peoples on earth will be blessed through you.” This is the beginning of the good news stated in Galatians 3:8-9: “Scripture foresaw that God would justify the Gentiles by faith, and announced the gospel in advance to Abraham: ‘All nations will be blessed through you.’ So those who rely on faith are blessed along with Abraham, the man of faith.”

2) Being set apart will always be in keeping with God’s grand plan of redemption. Joseph was set apart for the blessing of others. Blessing moves through us to bless others.

3) When God sets you apart for a task, He shoulders the responsibility for its outcome. When we respond with obedience, there’s no limit to what He can do.

4) Being set apart is initiated by God but carried out through our obedience.

5) Neither your history nor heritage has to be unblemished for God to set you apart.

Joseph’s story is one of redemption filled with practical wisdom. Through the lens of his life we’ll examine how to deal with difficult family issues and mend broken relationships. We’ll learn how to choose forgiveness and respond with wisdom amidst unexpected challenges and disappointments. Joseph will show us how to give mercy and kindness to the undeserving. And he’ll reveal how a good God and suffering can co-exist. 

I’m excited to learn how these truths played out in Joseph’s life and to see how I can apply them in mine as well. Join me on this journey and let God’s faithfulness breathe new hope into whatever you’re facing.

Abraham established a foundation of faith that we’re still benefiting from today. Let Pat Barrett’s song “Build My Life” remind you of the importance of building your life on the solid ground of Jesus’ love.

Kelly Minter, Finding God Faithful: A Study on the Life of Joseph, Lifeway Press, 2019.

God’s Kingdom on Earth

My mom was the first person to explain the impact knowing Jesus could have on daily life. At the tender age of six, I was starting first grade at a new school in a new town. Each morning a lump would form in my throat and I’d fight back tears when it was time to leave for school. I dreaded being away from the comfort and security of my mom’s presence. My tearful departures didn’t let up until one day when she leaned down to hug me and said, “Even though I can’t be there with you, Jesus can. Just remember that He’s there holding your hand, no matter what.” Her words were such a comfort to me that my tears stopped flowing. Every day after that I’d plead, “Tell me again, mom. Tell me about Jesus holding my hand.” The angst I’d felt at the start of each day was gone. 

My mom’s reassurance of Jesus’ presence was a small but significant way that she spread God’s kingdom on earth. In the Lord’s Prayer, Jesus taught us to pray: “‘Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name, your kingdom come, your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven.” (Matthew 6:9-10) I think my mom knew that this prayer is about more than Jesus’ second coming in the future; it’s also about inviting Him into the present. Her reassurance didn’t change my circumstances, but it transformed my world. The knowledge that Jesus was right beside me gave me a sense of peace and security I hadn’t had before. My new perspective sustained me through the difficulty of our move and many other challenges in the years that followed.

God has empowered all believers to change the atmosphere on earth in this present time. Christine Caine explains, “Jesus didn’t save us to build a Christian subculture. He didn’t save us to hide from the world, avoid the world, ignore the world, fear the world, condemn the world, or judge the world. He sent us in to the world to love the world He created and loves so tenderly and fiercely… So to understand the kingdom of God we need to remember that a kingdom reflects the character of its king.” (p. 170 & 171)

Caine also explains “Through Jesus, God’s rule has already entered into our here and now, but it is not yet fully realized, as the fullness of His kingdom will not come until Jesus returns. As a result, we’re living in a period of ‘already and not yet.’” She then asks a penetrating question, “How are we to live in this time?” (p. 173)

Let me humbly offer a few suggestions for answering her question:

-Make Room for the Kingdom of God in Your Personal/ Daily Life: Commit to spending time in God’s Word and prayer daily. Be intentional about creating space in your schedule to be quiet before the Lord. If you think you’re too busy, ask God to show you what distractions you can eliminate that will free you up to draw near to Him consistently. (If you want tips for how to structure that time, see my blog “Rise to Rest.”)

-Make room for the Kingdom of God in Your Relationships: Your faith is personal, but that doesn’t mean it should stay private. Share with your family and friends about what you’re reading and learning in Scripture. Give them opportunities to ask questions. Cultivate spiritual dialogue in your close relationships so that it’s natural to talk about your faith, pray together, listen to Christian music, or offer encouragement based on biblical wisdom. (And be patient if they need time to warm up to this.)

-Spread the Kingdom of God in Your Community and Beyond: Ask the Lord to expand His kingdom through you and then be open to His prompting. Say “yes” to opportunities that allow you to rub shoulders consistently with others who haven’t heard the gospel. Purpose to flavor your surroundings with God’s love, wisdom, and grace. The efforts you make in your personal life, relationships, and community will expand the Lord’s Kingdom on Earth. You’ll be giving others a taste of His love and reflecting the character of your Heavenly Father. Author and theologian N.T. Wright explains:

“You are…accomplishing something that will become in due course part of God’s new world.  Every act of love, gratitude and kindness; every work of art or music inspired by the love of God and delight in the beauty of his creation…every act of care and nurture, of comfort and support, for one’s fellow human beings…and of course every prayer, all Spirit-led teaching, every deed that spreads the gospel, builds up the church, embraces and embodies holiness rather than corruption, and makes the name of Jesus honored in the world—all of this will find its way, through the resurrecting power of God, into the new creation that God will one day make…what we do in Christ and by the Spirit in the present is not wasted. It will last all the way into God’s new world.”  

My mom spread God’s kingdom on earth not just by sharing Jesus with me, but by discipling and mentoring many others over the years. In the past few months I’ve seen the evidence of her impact as cards and letters from many people have poured in. What a privilege it was to sit at her bedside reading them to her as she prepared to meet Jesus face to face. Looking back, I see she spent her life expanding His kingdom one person at a time. And I rejoice knowing that she’s experiencing the Lord’s kingdom in its fullness now that she’s home in heaven.

Christine Caine says, “We have been saved not only from something but for something: the work of the kingdom here on earth, the mission of the church.” (p.173) Will you commit to praying consistently for the Lord to use you to further His kingdom? Invest in your personal relationship with Him and then let it ripple out from there.

Rend Collective’s song “Build Your Kingdom Here” is one of my favorites. Listen and make it your prayer today.

As a bonus, I’m also including Natalie Grant’s song “Face to Face.” It captures my story describing walking hand in hand with Jesus until we see Him face to face.

Christine Caine, 20/20. Seen Chosen. Sent. Lifeway Press 2019.

N.T. Wright Surprised by Hope: Rethinking Heaven, the Resurrection and the Mission of the Church, HarperOne, 2008, page 208.

What Would You Say?

My college roommates and I have an annual tradition of meeting for a weekend away together. Over time, we’ve embraced certain rituals like enjoying leisurely meals and staying up late talking. Another tradition we love is choosing a favorite item to bring and share as a gift to the others. Last year I couldn’t wait to give them a book that impacted me significantly. As they scanned the table of contents, I was giddy sharing about all the ways I’d benefited from what I learned.

Maybe you’ve experienced a similar dynamic. When you find something beneficial to you, you’re enthusiastic about passing it along to others. Why is it, though, that we don’t always have the same exuberance when it comes to telling people about the good news of Jesus? There are many explanations, but I think one is that we just don’t know what to say.

In her Bible study 20/20. Seen. Chosen. Sent., Christine Caine highlights this by asking, “Could you walk someone through the truth of the gospel?” (page 151) She goes on to explain, “If the sole purpose of salvation is to go to heaven when we die, then wouldn’t it be more merciful of Jesus if, after He saved us, He took us home immediately? But we have a purpose to fulfill here on earth. We are the sent ones commissioned to go into all the world and proclaim His good news.” (page 152)

Her words echo Jesus’ teaching known as the Great Commission: “Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.” (Matthew 18:19-20, NIV)

This reminds me of a young businessman named Bill Bright who heard the message of the gospel and began a personal relationship with Jesus. As his faith grew, he couldn’t contain his enthusiasm. Jesus’ words in the Great Commission compelled Bright to tell the good news to anyone who would listen. Eventually, he dedicated his life to sharing the gospel and to training others to do the same by founding Campus Crusade for Christ International in 1951. Now known simply as “Cru,” the ministry focuses on sharing the good news about Jesus on college campuses around the world.

Soon after founding Cru, Bill Bright realized that many believers were unable to communicate the gospel succinctly. So, using skills he’d acquired in the business world, he set out to write a clear and simple explanation of the good news that others could learn to share. As a lover of science, Bright decided to make a comparison between physical laws that govern the universe (such as the law of gravity), and spiritual laws that govern our relationship with God. He created a simple document called The Four Spiritual Laws that helped to communicate the gospel to non-believers. It also gave Christians a roadmap for sharing the good news of Jesus with others. If you’ve ever struggled to find the right words for sharing the hope of Jesus, Bright’s tool might be helpful for you to learn. Here’s an overview of it:

Law 1: God loves you and has a wonderful plan for your life. 

“For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.” John 3:16

“I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full.” John 10:10b

Law 2: People are sinful and separated from God. Therefore, we can’t experience God’s love and plan for our lives.

“For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God.” Romans 3:23

“For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.” Romans 6:23

Law 3: Jesus Christ is God’s only provision for our sin. Through Him you can know and experience God’s love and plan for your life.

-He died in our place, paying the penalty for our sin: “But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.” Romans 5:8

-He rose from death: “For what I received I passed on to you as of first importance: that Christ died for our sins according to the Scriptures, that he was buried, that he was raised on the third day according to the Scriptures, and that he appeared to Cephas, and then to the Twelve. After that, he appeared to more than five hundred of the brothers and sisters at the same time, most of whom are still living, though some have fallen asleep.” 1 Corinthians 15:3-6

-He is the only way to God: “Jesus answered, ‘I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.’” John 14:6

Law 4: We must individually receive Jesus Christ as Savior and Lord; then we can know and experience God’s love and plan for our lives.

“Yet to all who did receive him, to those who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God—” John 1:12

“If you declare with your mouth, ‘Jesus is Lord,’ and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved.” Romans 10:9

“For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God— not by works, so that no one can boast.” Ephesians 2:8-9

Every person can receive Christ by faith by saying a simple prayer like this:

Lord Jesus, I need You. Thank you for dying on the cross for my sins. I open the door of my life and receive You and my Savior and Lord. Thank you for forgiving my sins and giving me eternal life. Take control of the throne of my life. Make me the kind of person You want me to be.

Bill Bright’s passion led him to share the gospel, disciple, and train thousands of people. Today, Cru has ministries in 5300 locations on college campuses in addition to ministries reaching a variety of other people groups worldwide.

Will you follow Bill Bright’s example and learn to share the gospel so you can participate in fulfilling the Great Commission? Ask the Holy Spirit to empower and lead you to others who are hungry for the hope found in Jesus.

For a deeper dive into understanding the Four Spiritual Laws, check out these four posts in my “Faith Foundations” series:  

God Loves You

The Problem of Sin

Jesus is the Only Way

Accept Jesus Personally

For more information on Cru visit their website.

For more inspiration, check out Bill Bright’s biography Amazing Faith

Christine Caine, 20/20. Seen. Chosen. Sent., Lifeway Press, 2019.

How Do You Smell?

Unlocking the front door, the pungent scent of ripe litter boxes greeted my nostrils. I’d agreed to care for a family member’s cats while she was on vacation, more out of love for her than for her two feline companions. She’d gone “nose blind” not long after adopting them and had no idea how strong their smell was in her house.

She’d instructed me to rake the litter, remove the largest clumps, and simply spray the plastic scooper with Lysol before stowing it in a bag. The combination of disinfectant and cat urine created a powerful, acrid odor that didn’t mask the smell effectively. I couldn’t bring myself to pour fresh litter on top of what was left in the boxes. Nor could I leave without getting to the root of the issue. So, holding my breath, I poured the remaining contents into a garbage bag before lugging the boxes and scooper outside to be hosed and scrubbed with bleach. I like to think the cats’ toileting experience went from the level of an unsavory gas station on a busy highway to an elite, five-star spa at the finest resort. As much as I didn’t enjoy the process, knowing the litter boxes were clean and that the source of the smell had been eliminated made me feel better (at least until the next time I cared for the cats).

I know it may sound strange, but I remembered that experience as I worked through Christine Caine’s 20/20 Bible study this week. How could I not think of strong fragrances when she emphasizes them in a detailed look at 2 Corinthians 2:14-16?

“But thanks be to God, who always leads us as captives in Christ’s triumphal procession and uses us to spread the aroma of the knowledge of him everywhere. For we are to God the pleasing aroma of Christ among those who are being saved and those who are perishing. To the one we are an aroma that brings death; to the other, an aroma that brings life. And who is equal to such a task?”

Caine emphasizes, “Yes, we absolutely want to be in the world, rubbing elbows with the people God brings across our path, but we also want to ensure that the aroma of Christ in us overpowers the aroma of the world around us.” (p.110-11) Later, she asks a penetrating question, “How do you smell?”

As I thought about this, I realized that much like those litter boxes, I’m prone to covering over the foul aromas coming from me rather than cleansing them at the source. I’m talking about my attitudes, behaviors, and thoughts here. For example, on the outside, I may be trying to exude a calm, unruffled demeanor while inside I’m seething with frustration and impatience. This happens most often when I try to muster the right attitude on my own instead of being still before God and asking the Holy Spirit to renew my mind. Basically I’m spraying metaphorical Lysol on behaviors and attitudes that need deep cleaning. It’s my attempt at taking a shortcut to getting the positive results I need. At the root, I’m attempting to cover over sin with human effort instead of confessing it and letting Jesus cleanse me. 

What’s convicting me lately is that my true aroma is most obvious to those closest to me. It’s like I’m “nose blind” to my unpleasant fragrances around the people who know me best: my family. When I add in emotional baggage and negative assumptions that those relationships include, I realize it’s much easier for me to spread the aroma of Christ around people I’m not related to. Hopefully I’m not the only one who finds it easier to be patient, gracious, and uncritical around individuals who don’t share my DNA.

God seems to have placed me in a season that’s forcing me to confront my “nose blindness” and to let Him clean out my spiritual litter box. For me, the last few months have been intense and have included more time around extended family as we walk through a crisis together. It’s been unpleasant to acknowledge my foul- smelling thoughts and actions. But, the Lord has convicted me that it’s time to deal with root issues causing the putrid aromas flavoring my interactions with family. It’s hard, painful work, but so worth it.

One thing gives me the strength to continue: spending time with Jesus. I love the passage in Acts that describes what the synagogue rulers realized about Peter and John: “When they saw the courage of Peter and John and realized that they were unschooled, ordinary men, they were astonished and they took note that these men had been with Jesus.” (Acts 4:13, NIV) Being with Jesus changed the disciples then and changes us now. Reading God’s Word and spending time in His presence transforms us to be more like Him. Jesus cleanses our putrid attitudes and behaviors and fills us with the Holy Spirit so His aroma flows out of us. 

Research reveals that “Of the five senses, smell is one of the most powerful when it comes to evoking memories. A simple odor can unleash a cascade of feelings, the aroma of coffee, the smell of wet grass, the fragrance of perfume.”* So, what aroma do people remember after they’ve spent time around you? What about your spouse, children, step-children, in-laws, grandchildren, parents, siblings, nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles, and cousins? Consider adopting the mindset of Bible teacher, Jennie Allen: “I want my private life to have been more eternally significant than my public life. Because that seems to be what God cares about most.”**

If you want to emit the aroma of Christ, start by inviting Him to show you where you’ve gone nose blind. Commit to spending time with Him consistently so that He can cleanse and change you. Take Christine Caine’s words to heart: “The more we allow God to transform us from the inside out, the more we will emit the aroma of Christ,” (p. 117)

Sidewalk Prophets’ song “Live Like That” paints a beautiful picture of a life that emits the aroma of Christ. Listen and make it your prayer today.

Christine Caine, 20/20. Seen. Chosen. Sent., Lifeway Press, 2019.

*www.exploringyourmind.com

**Jennie Allen, Instagram Post, October 6, 2020.

Photo courtesy of www.pixabay.com