Category: Christian Living

The Voices We Follow

Leaning forward, I placed my frozen yogurt on the table and looked into her eyes. “Maggie, I love you and you’ll always be welcome at D-Group, but I guarantee you won’t want to come if you continue down the path you’re on.” My bluntness caught her by surprise and she quickly refuted my prediction, assuring me she’d never stop coming to youth group or meeting with the girls in our Discipleship Group. She was sure she could toggle between the high school party scene and her fragile faith.

I’d met Maggie a year and a half earlier on our church’s annual houseboat trip. She was an incoming freshman brimming with enthusiasm. I was a young, new leader ready to pour into a group of high school girls. Maggie and her best friend were the first ones I met that week and we made an instant connection. The three of us spent a lot of time together that summer. Once school started, we gathered weekly with a group of girls their age to share life and study the Bible. But by the beginning of her sophomore year, other activities began to have more allure to Maggie. Parties and popularity seemed more exciting than youth group, Bible study, and church friends.

Maggie was confused, not sure which voices to heed. She’d tasted enough of God to know He was good, but her parents had never really encouraged her involvement at church. False friends promised fun and excitement that seemed more appealing than the solid and stable lives of the Christians who cared about her. In the years that followed, Maggie popped in and out of my life less and less. She was always invited and included in our group’s activities, but rarely came. It saddened me to learn that this funny, talented, bright-eyed girl later struggled through addiction and a string of bad relationships.

Like many of us, Maggie had a lot of voices speaking into her life, but she didn’t know which ones to trust or follow. Sadly, she’d been exposed to biblical truth, but strayed further and further from Jesus as deceptive voices lured her down other paths. Her story exemplifies Megan Fate Marshman’s description of the cycle of shame: “In our fallen world, we are being bombarded with lying voices at every turn…Theses voices convince us that we are unacceptable…pushing us to respond through hiding and blame. These shame responses lead us into further isolation, as we choose to close God and others out, believing we can only trust in ourselves. This creates space for greater lies to reign in our hearts. The only way we can truly combat these lies is allowing God and his powerful voice of truth in.” (page 31)

Jesus shows us the alternative to this in John 10 when He describes Himself as a shepherd who lovingly leads His flock: “My sheep listen to my voice; I know them, and they follow me. I give them eternal life, and they shall never perish; no one will snatch them out of my hand.” (John 10:27-28, NIV)

Listening to Jesus and following Him sounds simple, but with so many voices clamoring for our attention, it’s not always easy to know which ones to ignore. I think that’s where things went sideways for Maggie—she listened to the loudest voices rather than evaluating which ones truly wanted the best for her.

Earlier in John 10 Jesus explains “I am the gate; whoever enters through me will be saved. They will come in and go out, and find pasture. The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full.” (John 10:9-10, NIV). Megan explains, “Like a thief, these voices hope to force their way into the Inner You. It takes an active heart not to receive them.” (page 31) The most dangerous thief we’ll ever encounter is the devil. Although he can’t snatch us from God’s hands, he’ll do whatever he can to steal our joy, kill our hope, and sabotage our faith.  In another passage, Jesus describes the devil by saying, “He was a murderer from the beginning, not holding to the truth, for there is no truth in him. When he lies, he speaks his native language, for he is a liar and the father of lies.” (John 8:44b, NIV)

So how do we differentiate between the loving voice of our shepherd, the deceitful voice of the devil, and the unreliable voice of the world? Without a doubt, the best way is by evaluating what those voices are telling us in comparison to the unchanging truth of God’s Word. Studying the Bible consistently is critical.

Discerning between these three voices also requires thought and prayer. A few years ago, someone gave me a printed guide that helps me to recognize what voices to follow based on the tone, motive, and character of the messages I’m hearing. Over time, I’ve added on to the guide as I’ve had experiences with the different voices. I’ve included it below to help you tune your ear to the voice of the Shepherd over all others.

God’s Tone of Voice: Soothing, quieting, peaceful, encouraging, inspiring, grace-filled, reassuring, forgiving, gentle, loving, kind, hopeful, patient, joyful, respectfulSatan’s Tone of Voice: Insistent, demanding, rash, accusing, defeating, discouraging, doubt-inducing, pride-building, vengeful, bitter, self-centered, critical, negativeThe World’s Tone of Voice: Comparison focused, fearful of what others think, bases value on exterior qualities, struggles with wanting to measure up, stirs up insecurity
God’s Motives/ Character: 
Builds relationships, empowers us to do what is right, gives us courage, provides wisdom, gives peace, stretches us and challenges us to grow, reassures us, convicts to bring positive and healthy changes, offers grace, understands, forgives, promotes truth		Satan’s Motives/ Character: 
Destroys, deceives, accuses, divides, isolates, turns people away from God, induces guilt, creates self-loathing, capitalizes on doubts and insecurities, exaggerates faults, magnifies misunderstandings, makes sin appealing and acceptable		The World’s Motives/ Character: 
Pleases people to gain acceptance, works to fit into the “right” mold, satisfies self, looks out for self, judges & compares self and others, pursues comfort and convenience, avoids hard things, keeps up appearances, bases values and standards on popular opinion

Take a moment to consider this list. Use it to ponder Megan’s questions: “How have you seen lying voices push you or others into a Cycle of Shame? How can receiving God’s voice into the Inner You help to combat this cycle?”

Reject the enemy’s lies and remember the truth of who you are in Christ by listening to “My Testimony” by Elevation Worship.

Megan Fate Marshman, Meant for Good: The Adventure of Trusting God & His Plans for You, Zondervan, 2020.

Image from pixabay.com

More Like Jesus

Opening Megan Fate Marshman’s book Meant for Good: The Adventure of Trusting God & His Plans for You made me curious, but also skeptical. The cynical side of me wondered what more we could learn from two Bible passages that most Christians have heard many times: Jeremiah 29:11-13 and Romans 8:28-9. But as I delved further, I realized these Scriptures overflow with spiritual truth that we may miss at first glance.

You may be familiar with Jeremiah 29:11 since it’s often used to reassure people in times of uncertainty: “’For I know the plans I have for you,’ declares the Lord, ‘plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. Then you will call on me and come and pray to me, and I will listen to you. You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart.’” (Jeremiah 29:11-13, NIV) 

This passage was originally written to Jewish people who had been living as exiles in Babylon. The Lord had allowed them to be carried into captivity as a consequence for their worship of idols and rebellion against Him. The hope-filled future this passage promises ties directly to the state of their hearts. As they turned back to the Lord, He would listen to them and they would be able to renew a genuine relationship with Him.

In the original Hebrew, the word “heart” describes “the most interior organ” and encompasses our minds and our inner being. Strong’s Concordance explains that the heart is the seat of desire, inclination, or will. It is also the well of emotions, knowledge, and wisdom. All of our thoughts, desires, words, and actions flow from the heart.  So, when we’re seeking God with all our hearts, our gaze is fixed steadily on Him. This is what the Lord wanted for His people when they were captives in Babylon, and it’s what He wants for us today.

Another oft-quoted verse that Megan covers in her book is Romans 8:28-9:

“And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose. For those God foreknew he also predestined to be conformed to the image of his Son, that he might be the firstborn among many brothers and sisters.” (Romans 8:28-29, NIV)

Most of us know verse 28 well, however, reading verse 29 is essential to understanding the definition for “good” in this context. We often interpret it to mean easy, comfortable, pleasant, or favorable. For many of us, “good” is synonymous with getting what we want, when we want—or having events unfold according to our desires. However, in the original Greek, the word “good” describes that which is beneficial in its effect. One commentary explains “The things themselves may not be good, but God harmonizes them together for believers’ ultimate good, because His goal is to bring them to perfection in His presence. Even adversities and afflictions contribute to that end…this is a continuing activity of God. And His working is on behalf of ‘those who love Him,’ who are further identified as the ones who have been called according to His purpose.” 

According to Romans 8:29, the ultimate “good” in God’s purpose is for us to be more like Jesus. So, when we seek Him with all of our hearts, we trust that whatever events unfold will be used to transform us to be more like Jesus—not to make us comfortable or to make our lives easier or happier. 

At this point, you may be thinking this definition of “good” doesn’t sound very enticing. So, let me share a personal example to show how hard things can be good and can make us more like Jesus.

Three years ago, my eighty-three-year-old mom was living on her own in the house where I grew up. Her health was starting to slip, but she was stubborn and independent and had no interest in moving. Unfortunately, a series of medical issues landed her in the hospital. When she was released, she decided to move into an assisted living community near my home where she could maintain her freedom but have more support when she needed it.

Over the next two years, my mom and I found a rhythm. I managed her bills, her house, her medical appointments, and her care. I got to know her friends, her schedule, her habits, and her needs more intimately than I ever had before. My four siblings helped when they could, but the responsibility for my mom rested mostly on me. This made sense since I lived much closer than all of them. I tried hard to be gracious and understanding about my siblings’ busy lives and the many valid things that kept them from being involved more consistently. As time progressed, I even preferred handling most of my mom’s affairs on my own. It was easier and less complicated than having them opt in where and when they could. I didn’t see it at the time, but in hindsight I recognize that pride and resentment were beginning to build in me.

Two years later, when my mom was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer and given months to live, my siblings all jumped to action, wanting to be involved and informed about every detail. They came to town often to be supportive and to spend as much time with our mom as possible. I welcomed and encouraged their involvement, but also felt some underlying anger. Suddenly I was managing my mom’s care while coordinating visiting schedules and trying to keep her house in order for them. I was feeling territorial and grasping for control amidst many disruptions in my life, but I didn’t see it at the time. Resentment was lurking beneath the surface, but I ignored it and acted like everything was fine. Still, my unacknowledged anger leaked out of me, robbing me of sleep and making me irritable and impatient with others. When I finally recognized what I was feeling, I started praying daily, asking God to take my thoughts captive and to make them obedient to Christ. (2 Corinthians 10:5) Over time, He answered those prayers, helping me to release my bitterness and resentment and to find grace and gratitude for my siblings’ presence and involvement.

 God worked through that hard season to refine me and to help me understand myself better. He conformed me to be just a bit more like Christ by exposing my pride and resentment and covering it with His grace. His goodness softened my heart and fostered healthier relationships in my family. There’s no doubt I’ll continue to grapple with those negative emotions at times. But I also know that as I seek Him, He will bring about His good purposes and continue making me more like Jesus.

The verses from Jeremiah and Romans highlighted in Meant for Good contain powerful and transformative truth. I’m excited to study them with you over the next six weeks. Let’s start by listening to Fernando Ortega’s “Lord, I Want to Be Like Jesus” and making it our prayer throughout this study.

  • Megan Fate Marshman, Meant for Good: The Adventure of Trusting God & His Plans for You, Zondervan, 2020.
  • Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance of the Bible, Thomas Nelson Publishers, 2001.
  • John F. Walvoord and Roy B. Zuck, The Bible Knowledge Commentary, Victor Books, 1983, page 474.

Changing Your Lens

I started dabbling in photography when my kids were little. Because I’m always trying to take the perfect picture, I notice details like color, texture, angle, and lighting. After taking so many photos over the years, I’ve learned that the same shot can be stunning or lackluster–it all depends on the lighting and perspective. A subtle shift can change the quality of a photo dramatically. I find this same principle with life circumstances. We can filter hardships through the light of our expectations and be disappointed, or through the light of God’s divine plan and be hopeful.

It’s challenging to cast difficult times in a positive light–usually we see them as “bad” and rail against the unfairness of having to endure them. Although they seem like interruptions to the way life is “supposed” to unfold, hardships provide rich opportunities for personal and spiritual growth. They’re only limited by our willingness to shift our perspective. When we begin to view difficult circumstances through a biblical lens, we start seeing that dim lighting is just hiding the good that can come from them.

Perhaps one of the best examples of this comes from the life of Joseph recorded in Genesis 37-50. We’ve spent the past few months looking at his story, but there’s one last angle that’s worth highlighting.  You probably remember that after being sold by his jealous brothers to slave traders, he finds himself in a series of unfortunate circumstances. Eventually he experiences a stunning reversal and becomes second in command of Egypt. In this position, he’s tasked with ensuring the crops produced during seven years of plenty are stored to prepare for seven subsequent years of famine.

Meanwhile, Joseph’s family in Canaan experiences the ravages of the food shortage and heads to Egypt. His ten older brothers appear before him to buy grain and, “Although Joseph recognized his brothers, they did not recognize him.” (Genesis 42:8, NIV)

After several interactions with them over time, Joseph can’t restrain himself any longer and proclaims, “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 45:4b-7, NIV)

Rather than spewing anger at them for selling him into slavery and inflicting years of misery upon him, he reassures them. Joseph sees the big picture and realizes that God, in His sovereignty, used him to save his family and many others from starving to death during the famine. Later, he reiterates this to his brothers, “You intended to harm me, but God intended it for good to accomplish what is now being done, the saving of many lives.” (Genesis 50:20, NIV)

Reading that leads me to think of someone else who endured hardship for the good of many: Jesus. Just as Joseph tumbled downward from his privileged position as Jacob’s favorite son to a lowly slave, Jesus left the glory of heaven to become a lowly man: “[Jesus] made himself nothing by taking the very nature of a servant, being made in human likeness.” (Philippians 2:7, NIV)

Joseph endured the humiliation of being falsely accused and punished for a crime he didn’t commit.  In the same way, Jesus was falsely accused and received punishment for the sins of all humankind: “he humbled himself by becoming obedient to death—even death on a cross!” (Philippians 2:8, NIV)

Scripture explains the purpose behind this: “For what the law was powerless to do because it was weakened by the flesh, God did by sending his own Son in the likeness of sinful flesh to be a sin offering. And so he condemned sin in the flesh, in order that the righteous requirement of the law might be fully met in us, who do not live according to the flesh but according to the Spirit.” (Romans 8:3-4, NIV)

Joseph traveled a broken road, but he saw how his painful circumstances led to ultimate good—the saving of many lives. Like him, Jesus’ suffering led to an even greater good–the saving of humankind. “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. For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through him.” (John 3:16-17, NIV)

God allowed His son to walk a painful path for the sake of ultimate good, triumphing over evil, death, and sin. Kelly Minter explains “evil exists in the world…At the same time we find a parallel track of God’s goodness and redemption, not running in place of evil, but somehow running alongside it, with God ultimately having His way with evil in the end.” (p. 199) Choosing to look at the hardships we endure through the light of eternity helps us to see how they can be used for His glory and our good.

Paul gives us similar encouragement in the New Testament: “And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.” (Romans 8:28, NIV) How timely that my next series of posts will focus on this incredible truth using Megan Fate Marshman’s Meant for Good: The Adventure of Trusting God and His Plans for You. I hope you’ll join me.

Until then, let Elevation Worship’s song “See a Victory” remind you to view your circumstances through the light of God’s goodness. 

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

To learn about other parallels between Joseph and Jesus, click here.

Image by Jonas Svidras from Pixabay.

A Faithful Man and A Good God

Joseph’s story in Genesis 37-50 has always been one of my favorites. Studying it through Kelly Minter’s Finding God Faithful only made me appreciate it more. His story illustrates so many spiritual truths that it’s hard to decide which ones to highlight. Read on for just a few of the many inspiring aspects of Joseph’s journey from prison to palace.

The Lord was with Joseph

You probably remember that Joseph’s charmed life as Jacob’s favorite son made an abrupt shift when his resentful brothers sold him to slave traders who carried him off to Egypt. 

Despite his dire circumstances, Scripture reminds us four times in one chapter that “The Lord was with Joseph.” (39:2, 3, 21 & 23) Because of this, God’s favor rested upon him and those he served, “the Lord blessed the Egyptian’s house for Joseph’s sake; the blessing of the Lord was on all that he had, in house and field.” (Genesis 39:5, ESV)

Note that the blessing upon Joseph and the anguish of being enslaved were happening simultaneously. It’s not unusual for good and hard situations to coexist in our lives. In fact, Jesus promises us, “In this world you will have trouble.” Thankfully, He finishes that statement with a word of encouragement, “But take heart! I have overcome the world.” (John 16:33, NIV) Like Joseph, we can rest in the knowledge that God is with us: “The virgin will conceive and give birth to a son, and they will call him Immanuel (which means ‘God with us’).” (Matthew 1:23, NIV) What a comfort this should be to us!

Unfortunately, we often struggle living in the tension of knowing that life is hard, but God is with us. Is it difficult for you to trust the Lord and serve Him faithfully in challenging times? Are you tempted to get bitter or to wallow in self-pity when everything 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. Can you believe Jesus and take heart knowing He has overcome the world, even when you can’t see how He’s working things out? These are convicting questions, but they might help to re-align your perspective if you’re in a difficult season.

Joseph’s Character Shines Through

No matter where Joseph found himself, his character remained consistent. His leadership skills and integrity always seemed to rise to the top like cream in a pail of milk. Consider these instances:

-Serving as a slave: “The blessing of the Lord was on everything Potiphar had, both in the house and in the field. So Potiphar left everything he had in Joseph’s care; with Joseph in charge, he did not concern himself with anything except the food he ate.” (Genesis 39:5-6, NIV)

-Behind bars: “So the warden put Joseph in charge of all those held in the prison, and he was made responsible for all that was done there. The warden paid no attention to anything under Joseph’s care, because the Lord was with Joseph and gave him success in whatever he did.” (Genesis 39:22-23, NIV)

-In Pharaoh’s court: “So Pharaoh asked [his officials], ‘Can we find anyone like this man, one in whom is the spirit of God?’…Then Pharaoh said to Joseph, ‘Since God has made all this known to you, there is no one so discerning and wise as you. You shall be in charge of my palace, and all my people are to submit to your orders. Only with respect to the throne will I be greater than you.’” (Genesis 41:38, 40-41, NIV)

Despite receiving unfair treatment, being punished for false accusations, and living as a slave for 13 years, Joseph’s consistency of character continued to be recognized and respected. He used his gifts to bless others and in every situation, he proved his trustworthiness.

I’m inspired when I consider this. So often it’s natural to compartmentalize our lives and to show certain parts of our characters to select people.  We might be kind and friendly at church, but pull into our garages without acknowledging our neighbors. Or maybe we gladly sign up for service projects, but feel annoyed when someone who needs help interrupts our schedules. Perhaps we’re good at being like Jesus when people behave the way we want and don’t inconvenience us too much. Maybe we could learn a thing or two from Joseph and let the gifts God’s given us bless others wherever we find ourselves, whether it’s a place we’ve chosen or a place we’re forced to be.

Joseph Honors God Boldly

One of the most striking aspects of Joseph’s story is the reverence he showed to the Lord. He honored God with his behavior and pointed others back to Him. Joseph chose not to fall to the temptation of Potiphar’s wife saying, “How then could I do such a wicked thing and sin against God?” (Genesis 39:9, NIV). Each time he interpreted a dream, he gave God the credit “‘I cannot [interpret your dream],’ Joseph replied to Pharaoh, ‘but God will give Pharaoh the answer he desires.’” (Genesis 41:15-16, NIV) Later, when the Lord blessed him with children, Joseph chose names that honored Him and pointed to His faithfulness. His older son’s name meant, “God has made me forget all my trouble” and his younger son’s meant “God has made me fruitful in the land of my suffering.” (Genesis 41:51-52, NIV)

Joseph was the only follower of the one true God while he was in Egypt, yet he spoke about the Lord and gave Him the credit for everything. His boldness and humility are convicting, but also inspiring. How apt am I to speak of God’s goodness to unbelievers? How often do I admit that it’s Him working through me when I have a positive impact on others?  It seems that Joseph’s quickness to acknowledge the Lord drew respect from everyone. Perhaps it’s time to pray for more confidence in this area. Do you need to do the same?

Through studying the life of Joseph, we found God to be faithful. Let Ellie Holcomb’s song “He Will” remind you that just as the Lord was with Joseph, He’s there for you in every situation too.

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

Almost Home

My boys just returned to college after a month of being home for the holidays. Our oldest is starting his final semester. It feels like yesterday that he was in high school and we were sitting at the kitchen table discussing where he would go. I remember encouraging him to branch out saying, “College is only a few years–it’s a great time to experience living in a different part of the country.”

He embraced that idea and chose a school 1500 miles from home. Over the last three-and-a-half years he’s experienced a culture that’s quite different from where we live. It’s been a rich time of education for him, both in and out of the classroom. Despite my enthusiasm about his college choice, I still bristle when anyone refers to it as his “home.” While we don’t know where he’ll end up living when he graduates, in my mind, his home will always be under our roof.
 
Most of us have experienced temporary lodgings—living somewhere for a while that isn’t our true home. We learn new things and have different experiences, but we know we’re not there permanently. I think many of us forget that this is also the case with our time here on earth. However, Scripture repeatedly reminds us of this truth. Look at Jesus’ statement in His prayer for all believers: “They do not belong to this world any more than I do.” (John 17:16, NLT) Or consider Peter’s words emphasizing that Christians are “temporary residents and foreigners in the world.” (1 Peter 2:11, NLT)
 
In keeping with this theme, Kelly Minter warns us of becoming enchanted by the things of this world. She says “I’ve been bamboozled by the shiny objects of what money can buy, hoodwinked by the allure of fame, swept up by dynamic personalities that weren’t always authentic.” (page 170) Her words remind me of this passage: “Do not love the world or anything in the world. If anyone loves the world, love for the Father is not in them. For everything in the world—the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life—comes not from the Father but from the world. The world and its desires pass away, but whoever does the will of God lives forever.” (1 John 2:15-17, NIV) The world, as it’s referred to in this passage, is “a system of values and goals from which God is excluded.” (Bible Knowledge Commentary) We live in tension with these competing perspectives of worldly wisdom and biblical wisdom every day. It’s why we prioritize studying God’s Word and spending time with others who seek Him. We need to remind one another that this world is not our home. 
 
While it can be difficult to live and think differently as followers of Christ, it is also more fulfilling and rewarding. Kelly Minter highlights this saying: “The longer I follow Jesus, though, the more the temporal pleasures of this earth really do dim in comparison to the joy of His fellowship and the privilege of loving and serving people, pleasures that are eternal. The end of Jacob’s life inspires me to live fully in view of God’s promises, even the ones that might be a way off. Jacob could have made his permanent home in Egypt and identified with its prosperity, but he knew that none of those flash-in-the-pan riches could hold a candle to taking his place as part of God’s royal lineage.” (pages 170-171)
 
Like Jacob and Joseph, we need to maintain our focus on the Lord during our time on earth. God’s sovereignty hasn’t been threatened by tumultuous events at any point in history, including the present. He is the only truly firm foundation for our lives. This is a good reminder as many worldly pleasures, comforts, and distractions have been stripped away by COVID-19. As we look to the Lord to steady us, we can also share His hope with the world that desperately needs it. 
 
In the book of Colossians, Paul admonishes us: “Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things.” I like the directness of the Message version of this passage: “So if you’re serious about living this new resurrection life with Christ, act like it. Pursue the things over which Christ presides. Don’t shuffle along, eyes to the ground, absorbed with the things right in front of you. Look up, and be alert to what is going on around Christ—that’s where the action is. See things from his perspective. Your old life is dead. Your new life, which is your real life—even though invisible to spectators—is with Christ in God. He is your life. When Christ (your real life, remember) shows up again on this earth, you’ll show up, too—the real you, the glorious you.” (Colossians 3:1-4, The Message)

Life right now may be hard for you, but remember this world isn’t our home. Let that truth encourage you today and every day. Set your mind on things above and let God use you to bring hope to those who need a perspective shift too. The trials we’re facing now are a blip in the light of eternity. If you need a reminder of that, enjoy “Almost Home” by MercyMe.

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

Eugene Peterson, The Message: The Bible in Contemporary Language, NavPress/ Tyndale House, 1993.

John F. Walvoord & Roy B. Zuck, The Bible Knowledge Commentary, Victor Books, 1983, page 891.

Image by Ida Damkilde from Pixabay 

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.