Romans 15:4
For everything that was written in the past was written to teach us, so that through the endurance taught in the Scriptures and the encouragement they provide we might have hope.
Good morning Zebras,
I read an interesting fact about zebras the other day.
The article said when baby zebras are born their mothers block them from seeing any other member of the herd. They do that to ensure the baby zebra can recognize her mother’s unique pattern and not get her confused with another female zebra. For the baby it is a matter of life or death because they need to be able to recognize their mother because she is their food source.
Of course, the implications for parenting are huge. Our kids, just like the baby zebra, imprint on us and they tend to follow the example that we set. Often times I wish my kids would just “do what I say rather than what I do,” but they don’t. They are excellent little mimics and a wonderful mirror to my faults as well as my strengths.
But beyond that I think there is even a greater lesson to be learned. The Bible says that when we receive Christ we are “born again.” And with that birth comes a new life.
I am one of those people who beat the statistics and accepted Christ as an adult. I was raised in a non-Christian home and never had any Christian role models to follow. After I was saved I had no idea what I was supposed to do so I looked around at other Christians to see what they did.
Unfortunately, I got a rather muddled view of the Christian life.
Not all Christians pursue God with the same fervor so knowing who to follow is huge. Paul tells the church at Corinth to follow him as he follows Christ, to imitate his life as he attempts to imitate Jesus’. And that’s really good advice.
All of us should be trying to follow Jesus, to imitate the life of “grace and truth” He lived here on earth but if that seems too difficult for you, find someone else who is doing it and follow them.
Eventually that’s what I did and it worked out well.
Now I find that’s one of the reasons God gave us the Bible. So that we can learn from Abraham, Moses, David, Paul and others, what it really looks like to live a life of faith.
Love,
Jill
Friday, December 31, 2010
Thursday, December 30, 2010
Faith Like Potatoes
Hebrews 11:6 (English Standard Version)
And without faith it is impossible to please him, for whoever would draw near to God must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who seek him
Good morning Zebras,
Last night we watched Faith Like Potatoes. It was a really good movie based on a true story of a white farmer in South Africa. I don’t want to give too much away because it is a movie worth watching but suffice it to say the story revolves around having real faith.
The main character does some wild things for God, but at the end of the movie even his family and Christian friends think he may be going a little too far. His pastor, who is also a little concerned, tells him “There is a fine line between faith and foolishness.”
But is there?
Didn’t Noah look foolish as he built an ark? Didn’t Joshua and his men look foolish as they marched around Jericho? Didn’t David look foolish dancing before the Ark of the Covenant? And didn’t Peter look foolish getting out of the boat to walk on water?
Or did he?
For a moment Peter felt the thrill of doing the impossible while the rest of the disciples watched. The Bible doesn’t say how many of the disciples were in the boat with Peter, it could have been all of them. But only Peter overcame his fear and got out. The other eleven could have done the same thing but they didn’t. They just sat and watched.
If you are tired of sitting and watching, if you want to get out of the boat and do the impossible, good! There are enough mediocre Christians in the world already, God wants a few that are willing to look foolish. Those are the ones He can REALLY use!
My son once said to me that one sold out Christian can accomplish more for God than a thousand who are just slightly interested. The choice is yours.
Love,
Jill
And without faith it is impossible to please him, for whoever would draw near to God must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who seek him
Good morning Zebras,
Last night we watched Faith Like Potatoes. It was a really good movie based on a true story of a white farmer in South Africa. I don’t want to give too much away because it is a movie worth watching but suffice it to say the story revolves around having real faith.
The main character does some wild things for God, but at the end of the movie even his family and Christian friends think he may be going a little too far. His pastor, who is also a little concerned, tells him “There is a fine line between faith and foolishness.”
But is there?
Didn’t Noah look foolish as he built an ark? Didn’t Joshua and his men look foolish as they marched around Jericho? Didn’t David look foolish dancing before the Ark of the Covenant? And didn’t Peter look foolish getting out of the boat to walk on water?
Or did he?
For a moment Peter felt the thrill of doing the impossible while the rest of the disciples watched. The Bible doesn’t say how many of the disciples were in the boat with Peter, it could have been all of them. But only Peter overcame his fear and got out. The other eleven could have done the same thing but they didn’t. They just sat and watched.
If you are tired of sitting and watching, if you want to get out of the boat and do the impossible, good! There are enough mediocre Christians in the world already, God wants a few that are willing to look foolish. Those are the ones He can REALLY use!
My son once said to me that one sold out Christian can accomplish more for God than a thousand who are just slightly interested. The choice is yours.
Love,
Jill
Wednesday, December 29, 2010
Think Right, Do Right, Feel Right
Philippians 4:8
Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things.
Good morning Zebras,
Today’s verse is one I often reference when speaking to women. Women have very active brains, we are always thinking about something, so it is important to know what we are supposed to think about. And this verse tells us.
One of the best things I think you can do for a friend who is ranting about some situation is to simply ask “Is that true?” Taking our thoughts captive to the truth of God’s Word is the first step in growing in Christian maturity.
Recently I heard this verse and the verse that follows: Whatever you have learned or received or heard from me, or seen in me—put it into practice. And the God of peace will be with you. summarized as Think Right, Do Right, Feel Right. And the more I think about it the more I like it.
What we think affects what we do and what we do definitely affects how we feel.
For example, if we think serving God is a privilege because God doesn’t really need us to get His work done we will be honored that He chose us and serve with joy. But if we think that we are doing God a big favor by helping him out, we tend to serve with arrogance and pride.
Or if we think that God owes us something, anything, even life, we tend to be ungrateful and demand more. But if we realize that God does not owe us anything, that every breath we take is only because of God’s grace, our attitude changes.
And then there is our time and our money, given to us by God to be used for His glory. Hording either doesn’t make you feel good.
One of my life lessons is the story out of Genesis where Cain comes to God all mopey and depressed. He is sad because God did not like his offering as well as He liked his brother’s. Look at God’s response. “Why are you angry? Why is your face downcast? If you do what is right, will you not be accepted?"
Basically, Cain, you did wrong, you know it and now you feel bad and you won’t feel better until you change the way you are acting.
Many Christians want to believe they can live with one foot in the world and one foot with God, but that is not Biblical. That is American. We want our “cake and eat it too.” We want to live our livf however we want AND we want the blessings and peace of God. But it doesn’t work that way. The Bible says we have to let go of one to get the other and whether we acknowledge it or not, inherently we know it is true.
Love,
Jill
Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things.
Good morning Zebras,
Today’s verse is one I often reference when speaking to women. Women have very active brains, we are always thinking about something, so it is important to know what we are supposed to think about. And this verse tells us.
One of the best things I think you can do for a friend who is ranting about some situation is to simply ask “Is that true?” Taking our thoughts captive to the truth of God’s Word is the first step in growing in Christian maturity.
Recently I heard this verse and the verse that follows: Whatever you have learned or received or heard from me, or seen in me—put it into practice. And the God of peace will be with you. summarized as Think Right, Do Right, Feel Right. And the more I think about it the more I like it.
What we think affects what we do and what we do definitely affects how we feel.
For example, if we think serving God is a privilege because God doesn’t really need us to get His work done we will be honored that He chose us and serve with joy. But if we think that we are doing God a big favor by helping him out, we tend to serve with arrogance and pride.
Or if we think that God owes us something, anything, even life, we tend to be ungrateful and demand more. But if we realize that God does not owe us anything, that every breath we take is only because of God’s grace, our attitude changes.
And then there is our time and our money, given to us by God to be used for His glory. Hording either doesn’t make you feel good.
One of my life lessons is the story out of Genesis where Cain comes to God all mopey and depressed. He is sad because God did not like his offering as well as He liked his brother’s. Look at God’s response. “Why are you angry? Why is your face downcast? If you do what is right, will you not be accepted?"
Basically, Cain, you did wrong, you know it and now you feel bad and you won’t feel better until you change the way you are acting.
Many Christians want to believe they can live with one foot in the world and one foot with God, but that is not Biblical. That is American. We want our “cake and eat it too.” We want to live our livf however we want AND we want the blessings and peace of God. But it doesn’t work that way. The Bible says we have to let go of one to get the other and whether we acknowledge it or not, inherently we know it is true.
Love,
Jill
Tuesday, December 28, 2010
Dance, Dance, Dance
Matthew 15:8-9 (English Standard Version)
"'This people honors me with their lips, but their heart is far from me; in vain do they worship me, teaching as doctrines the commandments of men.'"
Good morning Zebras,
I don’t know if you have ever had the unpleasant experience of loving someone who just wants to be friends, but I have. For me the weird thing was they did all the right things, they were nice to me and they spent time with me, but their heart wasn’t in it, at least not the way I wanted it to be. And I could tell.
Or maybe you have children who obey you but they don’t really want to. They are doing it because they have to, not because they love you and want to please you. And although you appreciate the obedience it feels hollow because something is missing.
The thing that is missing in both cases is love. They may like you, they may respect you, they may even fear you but the love that you want them to have is not there.
Now if you and I with our limited knowledge and ability can discern a person’s heart, what chance do you think we have trying to hide our heart from God? Not much.
Man looks at the outside appearance, he looks at the religious things that we do and thinks, “Oh, there is a person who loves the Lord. They go to church every Sunday; they tithe the correct amount, they serve in ministries and feed the homeless. They are a wonderful Christian.”
If our heart is not in it God is not fooled.
God does not want us to work so hard on the outside appearance. He wants us to work on our hearts. He wants us to love Him so much that the mere thought of Him makes us want to dance.
But you do not fall in love with someone by doing a million things for them; you fall in love with them by spending time with them and getting to know them. It is not the “doing” it is the “being” that will get you where you want to go.
There are probably a lot of things you think you need to do to be a good Christian. But there is only one thing that is really necessary and that is a heart and life totally devoted to God. If you have that EVERYTHING else will fall into place.
Love,
Jill
"'This people honors me with their lips, but their heart is far from me; in vain do they worship me, teaching as doctrines the commandments of men.'"
Good morning Zebras,
I don’t know if you have ever had the unpleasant experience of loving someone who just wants to be friends, but I have. For me the weird thing was they did all the right things, they were nice to me and they spent time with me, but their heart wasn’t in it, at least not the way I wanted it to be. And I could tell.
Or maybe you have children who obey you but they don’t really want to. They are doing it because they have to, not because they love you and want to please you. And although you appreciate the obedience it feels hollow because something is missing.
The thing that is missing in both cases is love. They may like you, they may respect you, they may even fear you but the love that you want them to have is not there.
Now if you and I with our limited knowledge and ability can discern a person’s heart, what chance do you think we have trying to hide our heart from God? Not much.
Man looks at the outside appearance, he looks at the religious things that we do and thinks, “Oh, there is a person who loves the Lord. They go to church every Sunday; they tithe the correct amount, they serve in ministries and feed the homeless. They are a wonderful Christian.”
If our heart is not in it God is not fooled.
God does not want us to work so hard on the outside appearance. He wants us to work on our hearts. He wants us to love Him so much that the mere thought of Him makes us want to dance.
But you do not fall in love with someone by doing a million things for them; you fall in love with them by spending time with them and getting to know them. It is not the “doing” it is the “being” that will get you where you want to go.
There are probably a lot of things you think you need to do to be a good Christian. But there is only one thing that is really necessary and that is a heart and life totally devoted to God. If you have that EVERYTHING else will fall into place.
Love,
Jill
Monday, December 27, 2010
The Day After
Psalm 118:24
This is the day the LORD has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it.
Good morning Zebras,
The Monday after Christmas weekend, that just sounds like a day made for the blues.
But it doesn’t have to be. It is up to you.
Many of you I’m sure had a wonderful Christmas and you are sad that it is over. Just as many of you had a disappointing Christmas and you are dealing with that. And I can relate because I’ve had both. Dealing with Christmas depression is usually just part of the holiday season.
But this year I accidentally did something that changed my perspective. I didn’t serve Christmas dinner until the twenty-sixth. I was so tired after making a big breakfast that I decided I would just make Christmas dinner the next day. And I loved it. Not because it got me out of cooking on Christmas day but because it reminded me that Christmas is not a day it is a lifestyle that extends far beyond December twenty-fifth.
For the world Christmas is a one day extravaganza, but not for us. For us it is just another day to celebrate the birth of Jesus, something we should be celebrating every day. And I was reminded of that yesterday while I was making dinner.
Why do we make such a big deal out of Christmas? It is just a day like any other day given to us by God for our enjoyment. Or maybe a better question is why we don’t make a bigger deal out of the three hundred and sixty four days that aren’t Christmas.
Jesus Christ, whose birth we were celebrating, came as a baby, died as a man, rose as the Son of God and is coming again. The party isn’t over. It is just beginning.
Prior to Jesus’ birth we were trapped in our own sin, powerless to overcome the evil that lived inside of us. But now because of His birth, death, and resurrection we are new creatures, not new creatures for a day, but new creatures for eternity and what you did or did not get for Christmas doesn’t change that. So rejoice!
If you are struggling this morning it might be because your hope was accidentally in the wrong thing this Christmas. If it was in what was under the tree, or any other earthly expectations, then you might be disappointed. But if it was in Jesus Christ, the Author and Perfecter of your faith, then don’t worry you got everything you wanted.
Love,
Jill
This is the day the LORD has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it.
Good morning Zebras,
The Monday after Christmas weekend, that just sounds like a day made for the blues.
But it doesn’t have to be. It is up to you.
Many of you I’m sure had a wonderful Christmas and you are sad that it is over. Just as many of you had a disappointing Christmas and you are dealing with that. And I can relate because I’ve had both. Dealing with Christmas depression is usually just part of the holiday season.
But this year I accidentally did something that changed my perspective. I didn’t serve Christmas dinner until the twenty-sixth. I was so tired after making a big breakfast that I decided I would just make Christmas dinner the next day. And I loved it. Not because it got me out of cooking on Christmas day but because it reminded me that Christmas is not a day it is a lifestyle that extends far beyond December twenty-fifth.
For the world Christmas is a one day extravaganza, but not for us. For us it is just another day to celebrate the birth of Jesus, something we should be celebrating every day. And I was reminded of that yesterday while I was making dinner.
Why do we make such a big deal out of Christmas? It is just a day like any other day given to us by God for our enjoyment. Or maybe a better question is why we don’t make a bigger deal out of the three hundred and sixty four days that aren’t Christmas.
Jesus Christ, whose birth we were celebrating, came as a baby, died as a man, rose as the Son of God and is coming again. The party isn’t over. It is just beginning.
Prior to Jesus’ birth we were trapped in our own sin, powerless to overcome the evil that lived inside of us. But now because of His birth, death, and resurrection we are new creatures, not new creatures for a day, but new creatures for eternity and what you did or did not get for Christmas doesn’t change that. So rejoice!
If you are struggling this morning it might be because your hope was accidentally in the wrong thing this Christmas. If it was in what was under the tree, or any other earthly expectations, then you might be disappointed. But if it was in Jesus Christ, the Author and Perfecter of your faith, then don’t worry you got everything you wanted.
Love,
Jill
Saturday, December 25, 2010
You're Not Alone
John 10:4
When he has brought out all his own, he goes on ahead of them, and his sheep follow him because they know his voice.
Good morning little Zebras,
I had no intention of writing to you today, but it has already been established that my intentions and God’s are not always the same.
Before I wander off to make breakfast for my family, I felt I had to drop you a quick note.
We have so many ways to communicate with one another. We can text, we can tweet, we can e-mail, or we call, but we still haven’t been able to do what God has always been able to do, which is speak to our hearts.
Twice this month I wanted to talk to my kids but I didn’t have a way to do it. Once they had forgotten to bring their phones, and once they were at school where phones are not allowed. Both times I prayed and asked God to tell them to call me and they did.
You might think it was just a coincidence, or luck, but I know better. I know my God who lives within the hearts of my children prompted them to pick up the phone and call me.
This morning God has prompted me to “call you.” He wanted to tell you that even if you’re alone, you’re not. He is there with you and although it may not feel like it, it’s true.
He also wanted me to tell all those Zebras who are surrounded by people who don’t “get it,” (family and friends who think you’ve gotten just a little “too religious,”) that you are not alone either. You have Zebras sisters all over the country who understand.
Today of all days should be a day of joy and peace for those of us who love and follow Christ. Don’t let Satan steal it away from you. Listen to God and believe what’s really true.
For those of you reading this who are fortunate enough to have a family who loves the Lord, who have been able to spend the day just as you wanted, please take a minute to stop and pray for your Zebra sisters who are less fortunate.
Please pray they are encouraged and strengthened.
Pray God speaks to them as only He can and pray they realize they’re not alone.
Understanding that is the true heart of this ministry.
Much love,
Jill
When he has brought out all his own, he goes on ahead of them, and his sheep follow him because they know his voice.
Good morning little Zebras,
I had no intention of writing to you today, but it has already been established that my intentions and God’s are not always the same.
Before I wander off to make breakfast for my family, I felt I had to drop you a quick note.
We have so many ways to communicate with one another. We can text, we can tweet, we can e-mail, or we call, but we still haven’t been able to do what God has always been able to do, which is speak to our hearts.
Twice this month I wanted to talk to my kids but I didn’t have a way to do it. Once they had forgotten to bring their phones, and once they were at school where phones are not allowed. Both times I prayed and asked God to tell them to call me and they did.
You might think it was just a coincidence, or luck, but I know better. I know my God who lives within the hearts of my children prompted them to pick up the phone and call me.
This morning God has prompted me to “call you.” He wanted to tell you that even if you’re alone, you’re not. He is there with you and although it may not feel like it, it’s true.
He also wanted me to tell all those Zebras who are surrounded by people who don’t “get it,” (family and friends who think you’ve gotten just a little “too religious,”) that you are not alone either. You have Zebras sisters all over the country who understand.
Today of all days should be a day of joy and peace for those of us who love and follow Christ. Don’t let Satan steal it away from you. Listen to God and believe what’s really true.
For those of you reading this who are fortunate enough to have a family who loves the Lord, who have been able to spend the day just as you wanted, please take a minute to stop and pray for your Zebra sisters who are less fortunate.
Please pray they are encouraged and strengthened.
Pray God speaks to them as only He can and pray they realize they’re not alone.
Understanding that is the true heart of this ministry.
Much love,
Jill
Thursday, December 23, 2010
Merry Christmas
Hebrews 10:23
Let us hold unswervingly to the hope we profess, for He who promised is faithful.
Good morning little Zebras,
I have been struggling the last few days trying to hear God’s little small voice through the noise that is Christmas. Not that there is anything wrong with all the cookies, trees, lights, and presents but for me they were obscuring God’s voice.
Last night I was talking to my kids about it. I am so used to hearing God speak that His silence has me a little disturbed and I wanted their perspective. Both of them said the same thing that God was still speaking but His voice was being drowned out by all the noise and busyness of Christmas.
Then Nick gave me a great word picture. God’s voice is like a pebble in a puddle. It is easy to see the pebble when the water is still, but if you drive a truck through the puddle, you muddy up the water and the pebble disappears. No matter how hard you try you won’t be able to see the pebble until the water calms down.
So this morning I got up early, while everyone was still asleep and asked God what He wanted me to remember this year about Christmas.
He wants me to remember that He keeps His promises. Thousands of years before Jesus’ birth God promised to send a Savior, and He did.
Preparing for retreat I have been spending a lot of time studying the life of Abraham. And although he didn’t use to be one of my favorites, he is now. There are so many lessons to be learned from his life, not the least of which is that God can be trusted to keep His promises.
God does not promise things and then change His mind. Nor does He not promise us something He can’t deliver. And He wants me to remember that.
He wants me to quit being like Peter walking on water one minute, sinking the next. He wants me to believe that He can do the impossible and live accordingly. He wants me to know that He is in control of all situations and to quit worrying. He wants me to focus on Him and His faithfulness instead of my shortcomings. And He wants me to quit thinking up back up plans in case this “God thing doesn’t work out,” because the God thing ALWAYS works out. He wants to increase my faith.
I have no idea what present God has for you this Christmas, but I know He has one. Don’t be too busy to open it.
Love,
Jill
Let us hold unswervingly to the hope we profess, for He who promised is faithful.
Good morning little Zebras,
I have been struggling the last few days trying to hear God’s little small voice through the noise that is Christmas. Not that there is anything wrong with all the cookies, trees, lights, and presents but for me they were obscuring God’s voice.
Last night I was talking to my kids about it. I am so used to hearing God speak that His silence has me a little disturbed and I wanted their perspective. Both of them said the same thing that God was still speaking but His voice was being drowned out by all the noise and busyness of Christmas.
Then Nick gave me a great word picture. God’s voice is like a pebble in a puddle. It is easy to see the pebble when the water is still, but if you drive a truck through the puddle, you muddy up the water and the pebble disappears. No matter how hard you try you won’t be able to see the pebble until the water calms down.
So this morning I got up early, while everyone was still asleep and asked God what He wanted me to remember this year about Christmas.
He wants me to remember that He keeps His promises. Thousands of years before Jesus’ birth God promised to send a Savior, and He did.
Preparing for retreat I have been spending a lot of time studying the life of Abraham. And although he didn’t use to be one of my favorites, he is now. There are so many lessons to be learned from his life, not the least of which is that God can be trusted to keep His promises.
God does not promise things and then change His mind. Nor does He not promise us something He can’t deliver. And He wants me to remember that.
He wants me to quit being like Peter walking on water one minute, sinking the next. He wants me to believe that He can do the impossible and live accordingly. He wants me to know that He is in control of all situations and to quit worrying. He wants me to focus on Him and His faithfulness instead of my shortcomings. And He wants me to quit thinking up back up plans in case this “God thing doesn’t work out,” because the God thing ALWAYS works out. He wants to increase my faith.
I have no idea what present God has for you this Christmas, but I know He has one. Don’t be too busy to open it.
Love,
Jill
Tuesday, December 21, 2010
Refocus
Luke 10:41
“Martha, Martha,” the Lord answered, “you are worried and upset about many things, but only one thing is needed.”
Good morning Zebras,
I don’t know about you but I am really struggling this year. I have the tree and the lights and I know that “Jesus is the reason for the season” but I still “ain’t feeling it.” I don’t have any of that excitement that is supposed to surround Christmas and I have lost the joy that I had before all this started.
So this morning I asked God why. And although I didn’t get a specific answer I got a few suggestions.
As much as I don’t want it to, Christmas adds stress. The cookies and goodies that are everywhere are like living in a mine field for me. To you they may be harmless treats but to me they are snares that trip me up because of my wrong thinking.
The Bible does not forbid cookies, or goodies, our culture does. And fifty three years of living in a culture that values thinness over godliness has got me all messed up. The truth is God cares more about what comes out of our mouth than what goes in.
Then there is the stress of not doing enough. If you manage to avoid the traps of the world there is still other Christians to keep up with. Trying to be godly among the godly is a battle that no one can win, because the moment you start playing you are in sin.
And then of course there is the money. Knowing how much to spend and what to spend it on can drive a person crazy.
Of course the sad thing is I feel close to God almost all the time, but right now when the world says He should be the closest He feels the farthest away. And why is that? I think it is because I have reduced the amount of time that I just sit in His presence listening to Him speak.
Preparing for Christmas and the retreat have me very task orientated, but God is not in the tasks. He is in the still small voice that speaks when I make time to listen.
As Christians we know that Jesus is always with us, even if it doesn’t feel like it. So if you are finding this Christmas season to be stressful check to see if you are focusing on the wrong things. If you are, grab your Bible and stop. Spend some time at the feet of Jesus, I think that is why He came.
Love,
Jill
“Martha, Martha,” the Lord answered, “you are worried and upset about many things, but only one thing is needed.”
Good morning Zebras,
I don’t know about you but I am really struggling this year. I have the tree and the lights and I know that “Jesus is the reason for the season” but I still “ain’t feeling it.” I don’t have any of that excitement that is supposed to surround Christmas and I have lost the joy that I had before all this started.
So this morning I asked God why. And although I didn’t get a specific answer I got a few suggestions.
As much as I don’t want it to, Christmas adds stress. The cookies and goodies that are everywhere are like living in a mine field for me. To you they may be harmless treats but to me they are snares that trip me up because of my wrong thinking.
The Bible does not forbid cookies, or goodies, our culture does. And fifty three years of living in a culture that values thinness over godliness has got me all messed up. The truth is God cares more about what comes out of our mouth than what goes in.
Then there is the stress of not doing enough. If you manage to avoid the traps of the world there is still other Christians to keep up with. Trying to be godly among the godly is a battle that no one can win, because the moment you start playing you are in sin.
And then of course there is the money. Knowing how much to spend and what to spend it on can drive a person crazy.
Of course the sad thing is I feel close to God almost all the time, but right now when the world says He should be the closest He feels the farthest away. And why is that? I think it is because I have reduced the amount of time that I just sit in His presence listening to Him speak.
Preparing for Christmas and the retreat have me very task orientated, but God is not in the tasks. He is in the still small voice that speaks when I make time to listen.
As Christians we know that Jesus is always with us, even if it doesn’t feel like it. So if you are finding this Christmas season to be stressful check to see if you are focusing on the wrong things. If you are, grab your Bible and stop. Spend some time at the feet of Jesus, I think that is why He came.
Love,
Jill
Thursday, December 16, 2010
For God
Matthew 6:1
“Be careful not to practice your righteousness in front of others to be seen by them. If you do, you will have no reward from your Father in heaven.”
Good morning Zebras,
I told my husband last night that I probably didn’t need to write to you today. Most people are so busy getting ready for Christmas they don’t have time to sit and read z-mails. He agreed but God didn’t.
This morning during my quiet time I was thinking about the fact that I didn’t have to write to you and planning what to do with the extra time when God decided to have a chat with me. “Who exactly are you writing for Jill? Are you writing for them or are you writing for Me?”
Of course the answer is both, but primarily I am writing for God. I am writing because God has told me to and although sometimes that makes me feel a little crazy I know I still have to obey. So even if not a single Zebra has the time to read this today it doesn’t matter. All that matters is that I have been obedient to God and I have done what He has asked of me.
One of my biggest struggles in life is remembering that I am not here to please men (or women) but to please God. He created me, He owns me, and He is the one who has the ability to provide for me and bless me. Pleasing Him is way more important than pleasing men.
In the Old Testament Saul learned that lesson the hard way. He let the behavior of the people affect his actions and it cost him his kingdom. God removed him from the throne and replaced him with David. Why did Saul give in to the people? Because Samuel, the prophet, was late. Saul needed Samuel to make the offering to God but he wasn’t there so Saul did it himself. And God was not pleased.
Of course since God is sovereign and in control we know Samuel was not really late, he arrived just when God wanted him to because God was testing Saul. He failed.
God does not change His instructions to us based upon the behavior of others. He tells us what he wants us to do and He expects us to do it. Period!
So, here’s today’s z-mail and if no one reads it that’s okay because I didn’t really write it for you I wrote it for God and He always checks His e-mails.
Love,
Jill
“Be careful not to practice your righteousness in front of others to be seen by them. If you do, you will have no reward from your Father in heaven.”
Good morning Zebras,
I told my husband last night that I probably didn’t need to write to you today. Most people are so busy getting ready for Christmas they don’t have time to sit and read z-mails. He agreed but God didn’t.
This morning during my quiet time I was thinking about the fact that I didn’t have to write to you and planning what to do with the extra time when God decided to have a chat with me. “Who exactly are you writing for Jill? Are you writing for them or are you writing for Me?”
Of course the answer is both, but primarily I am writing for God. I am writing because God has told me to and although sometimes that makes me feel a little crazy I know I still have to obey. So even if not a single Zebra has the time to read this today it doesn’t matter. All that matters is that I have been obedient to God and I have done what He has asked of me.
One of my biggest struggles in life is remembering that I am not here to please men (or women) but to please God. He created me, He owns me, and He is the one who has the ability to provide for me and bless me. Pleasing Him is way more important than pleasing men.
In the Old Testament Saul learned that lesson the hard way. He let the behavior of the people affect his actions and it cost him his kingdom. God removed him from the throne and replaced him with David. Why did Saul give in to the people? Because Samuel, the prophet, was late. Saul needed Samuel to make the offering to God but he wasn’t there so Saul did it himself. And God was not pleased.
Of course since God is sovereign and in control we know Samuel was not really late, he arrived just when God wanted him to because God was testing Saul. He failed.
God does not change His instructions to us based upon the behavior of others. He tells us what he wants us to do and He expects us to do it. Period!
So, here’s today’s z-mail and if no one reads it that’s okay because I didn’t really write it for you I wrote it for God and He always checks His e-mails.
Love,
Jill
Wednesday, December 15, 2010
Overburdened
John 14: 27
“Peace I leave with you; My peace I give to you; not as the world gives do I give to you. Do not let your heart be troubled, nor let it be fearful.
Good morning Zebras,
I woke up feeling burdened this morning. (It could be a sugar hang over-but that is a different
z-mail.) The joy that should be the hallmark of a Christian’s life was definitely eluding me.
Last week I heard a Christian say: "Life is hard and then you die.” At the time it struck me as wrong. But this morning I thought maybe she was right. Maybe life is just awful and hard and all I have to look forward to is heaven.
And then I went to God's Word to see what He had to say about the matter.
Life is tough, that’s true. Jesus told us that in John 16:33, but in the same verse He promised us peace "These things I have spoken to you, so that in Me you may have peace. In the world you have tribulation, but take courage; I have overcome the world."
How can both possibly be true? How can the world be hard and yet we still have peace? But Jesus promised it more than once.
In Matthew 11 He said: "Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.”
Does your burden feel light? Is your soul at rest? Maybe the problem is you are wearing two yokes. Animals only wear one yoke at a time, but we humans try to wear two. We wear the yoke of the world and then we add on the yoke of Christ, so instead of making our life easier it makes it more difficult. And to make matters worse we don’t really know what the yoke of Christ is.
The yoke of Christ is not all the work you do for the Lord, it is not the list of things you need to do to live a righteous life. It is nothing that you have to do other than change the focus of your life - instead of worrying about the things of this world, trust God and worry about getting to know Him more.
I think a lot of Christians think if they devote themselves to Christ, He will take things away from them. They won’t get to do all the things they enjoy doing. But it isn’t true. God is not the big bully in the sky; He is our heavenly Father who desires only the best for us and has the ability to do it.
God did not send Jesus to make us miserable, we were already miserable. He sent Him so that we could have a joyful and abundant life-now and also in eternity.
Anyone who tells you differently is mistaken.
Love,
Jill
“Peace I leave with you; My peace I give to you; not as the world gives do I give to you. Do not let your heart be troubled, nor let it be fearful.
Good morning Zebras,
I woke up feeling burdened this morning. (It could be a sugar hang over-but that is a different
z-mail.) The joy that should be the hallmark of a Christian’s life was definitely eluding me.
Last week I heard a Christian say: "Life is hard and then you die.” At the time it struck me as wrong. But this morning I thought maybe she was right. Maybe life is just awful and hard and all I have to look forward to is heaven.
And then I went to God's Word to see what He had to say about the matter.
Life is tough, that’s true. Jesus told us that in John 16:33, but in the same verse He promised us peace "These things I have spoken to you, so that in Me you may have peace. In the world you have tribulation, but take courage; I have overcome the world."
How can both possibly be true? How can the world be hard and yet we still have peace? But Jesus promised it more than once.
In Matthew 11 He said: "Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.”
Does your burden feel light? Is your soul at rest? Maybe the problem is you are wearing two yokes. Animals only wear one yoke at a time, but we humans try to wear two. We wear the yoke of the world and then we add on the yoke of Christ, so instead of making our life easier it makes it more difficult. And to make matters worse we don’t really know what the yoke of Christ is.
The yoke of Christ is not all the work you do for the Lord, it is not the list of things you need to do to live a righteous life. It is nothing that you have to do other than change the focus of your life - instead of worrying about the things of this world, trust God and worry about getting to know Him more.
I think a lot of Christians think if they devote themselves to Christ, He will take things away from them. They won’t get to do all the things they enjoy doing. But it isn’t true. God is not the big bully in the sky; He is our heavenly Father who desires only the best for us and has the ability to do it.
God did not send Jesus to make us miserable, we were already miserable. He sent Him so that we could have a joyful and abundant life-now and also in eternity.
Anyone who tells you differently is mistaken.
Love,
Jill
Monday, December 13, 2010
Fool for God
Joshua 10:11
And as they fled before Israel, while they were going down the ascent of Beth-horon, the LORD threw down large stones from heaven on them as far as Azekah, and they died. There were more who died because of the hailstones than the sons of Israel killed with the sword.
Good morning Zebras,
This morning I was praying about a situation in my life where I have done everything I feel God has called me to do and yet I have not yet achieved what I believe are the desired results. And God brought this verse to mind.
Now you might think that this is an odd verse to find comfort in, but you would be wrong.
The Israelites under Joshua’s leadership had gone into battle just as the Lord directed. If I remember correctly their enemy was bigger and stronger than them yet out of obedience they faithfully went and did what God had called them to do.
And look how He responded. He killed more of the enemy with hailstones than the Israelites did with their swords. How cool!
God does not abandon His obedient people. But I think the question is: Are we doing our part? Have we bravely done what God is asking of us even if it is scary and makes no sense or are we waiting for God to act first?
Notice God did not bring the hailstones until the Israelites were in the battle. He did not supernaturally act until the Israelites moved out on faith.
And I think the same principle still applies.
If you want to see the supernatural hand of God you need to have faith and trust God enough to do what He is calling you to do. You need to be willing to look a little foolish and move out in faith.
A couple of weeks ago I watched Evan Almighty. If you haven’t seen it, it is a modern retelling of Noah and the ark. God asks Evan, a rising star in the political world, to build an ark. At first he refuses but eventually God makes it clear that Evan has to give up everything and build the ark. So he does and everybody laughs.
One reporter mockingly asks him “Why would God pick you?” I love Evan’s reply. He looks straight into the eyes of this man who thinks he is so smart and says “God picks everybody.” Suddenly, to me, Evan doesn’t look like the stupid one.
Love,
Jill
And as they fled before Israel, while they were going down the ascent of Beth-horon, the LORD threw down large stones from heaven on them as far as Azekah, and they died. There were more who died because of the hailstones than the sons of Israel killed with the sword.
Good morning Zebras,
This morning I was praying about a situation in my life where I have done everything I feel God has called me to do and yet I have not yet achieved what I believe are the desired results. And God brought this verse to mind.
Now you might think that this is an odd verse to find comfort in, but you would be wrong.
The Israelites under Joshua’s leadership had gone into battle just as the Lord directed. If I remember correctly their enemy was bigger and stronger than them yet out of obedience they faithfully went and did what God had called them to do.
And look how He responded. He killed more of the enemy with hailstones than the Israelites did with their swords. How cool!
God does not abandon His obedient people. But I think the question is: Are we doing our part? Have we bravely done what God is asking of us even if it is scary and makes no sense or are we waiting for God to act first?
Notice God did not bring the hailstones until the Israelites were in the battle. He did not supernaturally act until the Israelites moved out on faith.
And I think the same principle still applies.
If you want to see the supernatural hand of God you need to have faith and trust God enough to do what He is calling you to do. You need to be willing to look a little foolish and move out in faith.
A couple of weeks ago I watched Evan Almighty. If you haven’t seen it, it is a modern retelling of Noah and the ark. God asks Evan, a rising star in the political world, to build an ark. At first he refuses but eventually God makes it clear that Evan has to give up everything and build the ark. So he does and everybody laughs.
One reporter mockingly asks him “Why would God pick you?” I love Evan’s reply. He looks straight into the eyes of this man who thinks he is so smart and says “God picks everybody.” Suddenly, to me, Evan doesn’t look like the stupid one.
Love,
Jill
Friday, December 10, 2010
Inspiring
Hebrews 12:1-2a
Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith.
Good morning Zebras,
I have started in earnest to prepare for the upcoming Zebra retreat. And although I vowed not to write about it in my z-mails, I can’t seem to help myself because what I am learning is all I can think about.
The focus of the weekend is the pursuit of God so I have been looking at men whose lives demonstrated that principle. David, Paul, Moses and Abraham all did amazing things but it’s their relationship with God that most inspires me.
Abraham is called God’s friend, Moses talked to God face to face, David is the only man who has the honor of being a “man after God’s own heart” and then there is Paul.
Paul considered EVERYTHING in his life rubbish compared to the surpassing greatness of knowing Jesus and resolved to know NOTHING except Christ crucified and the power of the cross. Is it any wonder that he did so much?
Now God doesn’t need us to start a nation, or to lead His people out of Egypt, and most of us will never be kings or missionaries but we can all have the same intimate relationship with God that they did.
But it is up to us. We have to follow their examples.
Abraham left everything to follow God, Moses had to be humbled, and if you read David’s psalms I think you will see how often David prayed for a pure heart towards God. Paul just never forgot. He never forgot that moment when Jesus came to him on the road to Damascus and changed forever the direction of his life.
All of us, if we are saved, should have that road to Damascus experience. Maybe not as dramatic but we should all remember when Jesus first made Himself real to us. And each one of us has the ability to pray for a heart that is totally devoted to Him. And we all can obey God if we choose to because we have the Bible, which is God’s revealed will, and the indwelling Holy Spirit, two things Abram lacked.
I don’t know about you, but realizing that these men weren’t inherently great but became great because of their obedience and devotion to God is very inspiring.
Love,
Jill
Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith.
Good morning Zebras,
I have started in earnest to prepare for the upcoming Zebra retreat. And although I vowed not to write about it in my z-mails, I can’t seem to help myself because what I am learning is all I can think about.
The focus of the weekend is the pursuit of God so I have been looking at men whose lives demonstrated that principle. David, Paul, Moses and Abraham all did amazing things but it’s their relationship with God that most inspires me.
Abraham is called God’s friend, Moses talked to God face to face, David is the only man who has the honor of being a “man after God’s own heart” and then there is Paul.
Paul considered EVERYTHING in his life rubbish compared to the surpassing greatness of knowing Jesus and resolved to know NOTHING except Christ crucified and the power of the cross. Is it any wonder that he did so much?
Now God doesn’t need us to start a nation, or to lead His people out of Egypt, and most of us will never be kings or missionaries but we can all have the same intimate relationship with God that they did.
But it is up to us. We have to follow their examples.
Abraham left everything to follow God, Moses had to be humbled, and if you read David’s psalms I think you will see how often David prayed for a pure heart towards God. Paul just never forgot. He never forgot that moment when Jesus came to him on the road to Damascus and changed forever the direction of his life.
All of us, if we are saved, should have that road to Damascus experience. Maybe not as dramatic but we should all remember when Jesus first made Himself real to us. And each one of us has the ability to pray for a heart that is totally devoted to Him. And we all can obey God if we choose to because we have the Bible, which is God’s revealed will, and the indwelling Holy Spirit, two things Abram lacked.
I don’t know about you, but realizing that these men weren’t inherently great but became great because of their obedience and devotion to God is very inspiring.
Love,
Jill
Thursday, December 9, 2010
Be Carful
Proverbs 16:18
Pride goes before destruction, a haughty spirit before a fall.
Good morning Zebras,
“Pride goeth before a fall.” One of those sayings everybody says which sound like they should be from the Bible but usually aren’t. This one, however, actually is. And yesterday I experienced firsthand the truth of that statement.
Yesterday I had a lot of trouble writing the z-mail. There were so many thoughts swirling in my head I couldn’t decide exactly what to write. I would start down one path only to change direction in the middle of the page. Every attempt was a muddled mess.
One topic that I wanted to write about was the importance of trials in our lives. How God uses trials not only to grow our faith, but to show us how much we have changed. Trials are actually just little tests and lately I have been doing pretty well.
That’s where the pride came in. I FOOLISHLY started thinking “I sort of like trials. I think I’m growing. Things that used to upset me don’t seem to bother me anymore; I just give them over to God. Maybe I am getting the hang of this Christian thing.”
WRONG!!!
The only reason I was having a semblance of success was because I had my eyes riveted on Jesus. It had nothing to do with me; it had everything to do with Christ. And the minute I looked away I tripped.
Maybe you can relate. If so-take heart! God knew you were going to blow it before you did and He made a way for you to make it right. 1John1:9 If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness.
Falling is normal, remaining down is not.
And since I want to be mature and complete, not lacking anything I still cautiously, with fear and humility, say that I sort of like trials. Not because they are fun, but because they are necessary. They do grow my faith by giving me a chance to depend on God and they do show my spiritual progress. But they also show me areas where I am too easily tripped up, areas that still need work. Areas where I need to grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ.
Love,
Jill
Pride goes before destruction, a haughty spirit before a fall.
Good morning Zebras,
“Pride goeth before a fall.” One of those sayings everybody says which sound like they should be from the Bible but usually aren’t. This one, however, actually is. And yesterday I experienced firsthand the truth of that statement.
Yesterday I had a lot of trouble writing the z-mail. There were so many thoughts swirling in my head I couldn’t decide exactly what to write. I would start down one path only to change direction in the middle of the page. Every attempt was a muddled mess.
One topic that I wanted to write about was the importance of trials in our lives. How God uses trials not only to grow our faith, but to show us how much we have changed. Trials are actually just little tests and lately I have been doing pretty well.
That’s where the pride came in. I FOOLISHLY started thinking “I sort of like trials. I think I’m growing. Things that used to upset me don’t seem to bother me anymore; I just give them over to God. Maybe I am getting the hang of this Christian thing.”
WRONG!!!
The only reason I was having a semblance of success was because I had my eyes riveted on Jesus. It had nothing to do with me; it had everything to do with Christ. And the minute I looked away I tripped.
Maybe you can relate. If so-take heart! God knew you were going to blow it before you did and He made a way for you to make it right. 1John1:9 If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness.
Falling is normal, remaining down is not.
And since I want to be mature and complete, not lacking anything I still cautiously, with fear and humility, say that I sort of like trials. Not because they are fun, but because they are necessary. They do grow my faith by giving me a chance to depend on God and they do show my spiritual progress. But they also show me areas where I am too easily tripped up, areas that still need work. Areas where I need to grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ.
Love,
Jill
Wednesday, December 8, 2010
Life and Doctrine
1Timothy 4:16
Watch your life and doctrine closely. Persevere in them, because if you do, you will save both yourself and your hearers.
Good morning Zebras,
Stop and really look at today’s verse.
Paul is commanding us to watch our lives and doctrine closely. To pay attention not only to how we act but what we believe. And why are we supposed to do that? Because it says, if we do, we will save not only ourselves, but those who listen to us.
Isn’t that cool? Isn’t that what every Christian wants, a life that makes a difference?
I know I do.
But to do that, I have to watch not only how I live, but what I believe. Because what I believe effects how I live. And I know from personal experience that living a life based on what I think the Bible says is not the same as living a life based on truth.
But figuring out the difference between the two is up to us.
God has given us pastors and teachers to help us learn God’s Word, they are given the task of equipping the saints, but they were never intended to replace God. Otherwise God wouldn’t have put the Holy Spirit inside of us whose job it is to lead us into all truth.
And He wouldn’t have given us His Word and commended people for studying it.
Acts 17:11-12a
Now the Berean Jews were of more noble character than those in Thessalonica, for they received the message with great eagerness and examined the Scriptures every day to see if what Paul said was true. As a result, many of them believed,
Listening to a great teacher is good, going home and examining for yourself that what they said was true only makes it better.
Love,
Jill
Watch your life and doctrine closely. Persevere in them, because if you do, you will save both yourself and your hearers.
Good morning Zebras,
Stop and really look at today’s verse.
Paul is commanding us to watch our lives and doctrine closely. To pay attention not only to how we act but what we believe. And why are we supposed to do that? Because it says, if we do, we will save not only ourselves, but those who listen to us.
Isn’t that cool? Isn’t that what every Christian wants, a life that makes a difference?
I know I do.
But to do that, I have to watch not only how I live, but what I believe. Because what I believe effects how I live. And I know from personal experience that living a life based on what I think the Bible says is not the same as living a life based on truth.
But figuring out the difference between the two is up to us.
God has given us pastors and teachers to help us learn God’s Word, they are given the task of equipping the saints, but they were never intended to replace God. Otherwise God wouldn’t have put the Holy Spirit inside of us whose job it is to lead us into all truth.
And He wouldn’t have given us His Word and commended people for studying it.
Acts 17:11-12a
Now the Berean Jews were of more noble character than those in Thessalonica, for they received the message with great eagerness and examined the Scriptures every day to see if what Paul said was true. As a result, many of them believed,
Listening to a great teacher is good, going home and examining for yourself that what they said was true only makes it better.
Love,
Jill
Monday, December 6, 2010
Christmas Parties
1Peter 3:3-4
Do not let your adorning be external—the braiding of hair and the putting on of gold jewelry, or the clothing you wear— but let your adorning be the hidden person of the heart with the imperishable beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit, which in God’s sight is very precious.
Good morning Zebras,
It is December and the official madness of Christmas has begun. If your church is like mine the message from the pulpit is “Resist the madness-remember the real meaning of Christmas!” God did not send His son to earth to make sure that every child got every present that they wanted. He sent His son so that everyone got the present that they really needed which was a right relationship with God.
But one topic I have never heard addressed at church is the dreaded Christmas parties.
Maybe you love Christmas parties, if so this z-mail might not be for you, but personally I don’t care for them. They are without a doubt one of the most stressful social occasions of the year. Now I am not talking about the fun gathering of friends and family, I am talking about the mandatory work parties that we are obligated to attend.
Trying to lose ten pounds in a week, shopping for a new dress, not to mention hair, nails and make-up can turn what should be a fun occasion into a stressful nightmare.
More than once Gary and I have had an argument over his work Christmas party.
And why?
Because I felt insecure, worried that stacked up against the people he worked with I was going to look like a house frau. Rather than supporting my husband’s need to go to the party, I would fight and complain the whole way. Even if by some miracle I was the “best looking one in the place” I wouldn’t have been in God’s eyes. Because making my husband’s life miserable is not pleasing to God.
In hindsight I should have worried less about what the world values and more about what God values which is treating my husband with the honor and respect he deserves.
Love,
Jill
Do not let your adorning be external—the braiding of hair and the putting on of gold jewelry, or the clothing you wear— but let your adorning be the hidden person of the heart with the imperishable beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit, which in God’s sight is very precious.
Good morning Zebras,
It is December and the official madness of Christmas has begun. If your church is like mine the message from the pulpit is “Resist the madness-remember the real meaning of Christmas!” God did not send His son to earth to make sure that every child got every present that they wanted. He sent His son so that everyone got the present that they really needed which was a right relationship with God.
But one topic I have never heard addressed at church is the dreaded Christmas parties.
Maybe you love Christmas parties, if so this z-mail might not be for you, but personally I don’t care for them. They are without a doubt one of the most stressful social occasions of the year. Now I am not talking about the fun gathering of friends and family, I am talking about the mandatory work parties that we are obligated to attend.
Trying to lose ten pounds in a week, shopping for a new dress, not to mention hair, nails and make-up can turn what should be a fun occasion into a stressful nightmare.
More than once Gary and I have had an argument over his work Christmas party.
And why?
Because I felt insecure, worried that stacked up against the people he worked with I was going to look like a house frau. Rather than supporting my husband’s need to go to the party, I would fight and complain the whole way. Even if by some miracle I was the “best looking one in the place” I wouldn’t have been in God’s eyes. Because making my husband’s life miserable is not pleasing to God.
In hindsight I should have worried less about what the world values and more about what God values which is treating my husband with the honor and respect he deserves.
Love,
Jill
Friday, December 3, 2010
Sword of the Spirit
Ephesians 6:17b-18a
the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God
Good morning Zebras,
Today we come to the last piece of the armor of God.
Up to this point we have been putting on defensive weapons, things that allow us to stand against the devil’s schemes, but today we take the offensive and grab up our sword.
The sword is the only part of the armor that Paul defines for us. It’s clear the weapon we are to use against Satan is the Word of God. Jesus modeled its use for us in Matthew 4 where He was led by the Spirit into the wilderness to be tempted by the devil. Jesus responded to every temptation put before Him by quoting the Words of God. It is written… prefaced each response.
Do you know what is written? You should.
Memorizing and meditating on the Word is not an option IF you want to live a victorious Christian life. Jesus used Scripture to combat the attacks of Satan so should we!
Jewish people used to memorize entire books of the Bible. They didn’t have written copies of the Bible to haul around with them, so what they had in their head was it.
How much do you have in your head?
God did not give us His word so that we could carry it to church on Sunday or decorate our coffee tables. He gave it to us so that we could attack the enemy. He gave it to us because He loved us and He knew we were going to need it.
When I was younger my sister, out of love, bought me a membership to a gym. It was really sweet of her and it would have been a great gift IF I had used it. But I didn’t and unfortunately having a gym membership is not the same as going to the gym.
The same is true with God’s Word. Having a Bible is not the same as using it. If you never open it, if you never mediate on it, if you never memorize it, you will never change.
God gave His word to us out of love. He REALLY wants us to use it.
Love,
Jill
the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God
Good morning Zebras,
Today we come to the last piece of the armor of God.
Up to this point we have been putting on defensive weapons, things that allow us to stand against the devil’s schemes, but today we take the offensive and grab up our sword.
The sword is the only part of the armor that Paul defines for us. It’s clear the weapon we are to use against Satan is the Word of God. Jesus modeled its use for us in Matthew 4 where He was led by the Spirit into the wilderness to be tempted by the devil. Jesus responded to every temptation put before Him by quoting the Words of God. It is written… prefaced each response.
Do you know what is written? You should.
Memorizing and meditating on the Word is not an option IF you want to live a victorious Christian life. Jesus used Scripture to combat the attacks of Satan so should we!
Jewish people used to memorize entire books of the Bible. They didn’t have written copies of the Bible to haul around with them, so what they had in their head was it.
How much do you have in your head?
God did not give us His word so that we could carry it to church on Sunday or decorate our coffee tables. He gave it to us so that we could attack the enemy. He gave it to us because He loved us and He knew we were going to need it.
When I was younger my sister, out of love, bought me a membership to a gym. It was really sweet of her and it would have been a great gift IF I had used it. But I didn’t and unfortunately having a gym membership is not the same as going to the gym.
The same is true with God’s Word. Having a Bible is not the same as using it. If you never open it, if you never mediate on it, if you never memorize it, you will never change.
God gave His word to us out of love. He REALLY wants us to use it.
Love,
Jill
Thursday, December 2, 2010
Helmet of Salvation
Ephesians 6:17a
and take the helmet of salvation
Good morning Zebras,
I tried to write this yesterday, but after an hour and a half of trying to figure out what to say I gave up. I have learned that when it “don’t come easy” there is something wrong.
And there was.
Yesterday as I tried to write about the helmet of salvation, I wrote about the importance of guarding our minds. I wrote about taking every thought captive and about thinking on things that are lovely and true. I wrote about our responsibilities as believers.
It was all true, but it wasn’t the point of the helmet. The helmet is made from salvation and that isn’t about us and what we are supposed to do, it is about God.
God has given us our salvation. We didn’t do anything to earn it. It is just a free gift, something that we are supposed to “take.” When we do it transforms the way we think.
Before Christ we were all concerned with the things of this world. A basic “what you see is all there is” mentality. We were driven to get “it all” because this is all there is to get. Sayings like “Eat, drink, and be merry, for tomorrow we die” and “He who dies with the most toys wins” drive us on to grab with both hands everything the world has to offer.
But after salvation God opens our minds and we realize that isn’t true.
What we see isn’t all there is, in fact it is only a shadow compared to what is to come. And “what is to come” is a new heaven and a new earth and eternal life in the presence of God. We begin to understand what is unseen is WAY greater than what is seen.
That is what it means to wear the helmet of salvation. It means our thinking has been transformed. Now we know this world is not our home, that Christ has conquered the power and penalty of sin, that we are new creatures in Christ who do not need to give in the worries and demands of this world.
It means we have hope.
Love,
Jill
and take the helmet of salvation
Good morning Zebras,
I tried to write this yesterday, but after an hour and a half of trying to figure out what to say I gave up. I have learned that when it “don’t come easy” there is something wrong.
And there was.
Yesterday as I tried to write about the helmet of salvation, I wrote about the importance of guarding our minds. I wrote about taking every thought captive and about thinking on things that are lovely and true. I wrote about our responsibilities as believers.
It was all true, but it wasn’t the point of the helmet. The helmet is made from salvation and that isn’t about us and what we are supposed to do, it is about God.
God has given us our salvation. We didn’t do anything to earn it. It is just a free gift, something that we are supposed to “take.” When we do it transforms the way we think.
Before Christ we were all concerned with the things of this world. A basic “what you see is all there is” mentality. We were driven to get “it all” because this is all there is to get. Sayings like “Eat, drink, and be merry, for tomorrow we die” and “He who dies with the most toys wins” drive us on to grab with both hands everything the world has to offer.
But after salvation God opens our minds and we realize that isn’t true.
What we see isn’t all there is, in fact it is only a shadow compared to what is to come. And “what is to come” is a new heaven and a new earth and eternal life in the presence of God. We begin to understand what is unseen is WAY greater than what is seen.
That is what it means to wear the helmet of salvation. It means our thinking has been transformed. Now we know this world is not our home, that Christ has conquered the power and penalty of sin, that we are new creatures in Christ who do not need to give in the worries and demands of this world.
It means we have hope.
Love,
Jill
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