Training for Today: Rest
Devotion: The Finish Line
For today’s final devotion, we’ll be considering the words in Acts 20:24: “I consider my life worth nothing to me, if only I may finish the race and complete the task the Lord Jesus has given me – the task of testifying to the gospel of God’s grace.”
I’m sure as you’ve been training for race day you’ve had many daydreams about what it will be like to cross the finish line. Perhaps you imagine the crowds of people cheering for you as you take the final steps. Perhaps you imagine how your body will feel, used but accomplished. Perhaps you imagine that special someone reaching out to you to say, “Well done!” Or, perhaps your daydream is simply a collection of all the emotions you might feel upon finishing a race of this magnitude.
In our verse for today, the writer’s only reason for existence is to finish the race, meaning his God-given task of testifying to the Gospel. Could you imagine the race you’re about to run as your only reason for being alive? Thank goodness it’s not! There are many reasons why our sinful bodies might not finish the race. But Jesus’ words “It is finished!” remind us that He crossed the finish line that really matters in our place! And, because of Him, our little ones have crossed that same finish line into the peace and perfection of heaven!
We know that we’re here for more than this race. We know that God still has a calling on our lives. God gives us each the task of testifying to the Gospel and will use our lives – whatever it takes – to turn us into the instruments He needs to pass on the news of His grace. In that sense, consider God the best personal trainer you could ask for!
Whatever vision you have of what it will be like to cross the finish line on race day, nothing compares to what it will be like for us to cross the finish line into eternity. The crowd cheering for you – your child will be there. The body you’ve beaten and worn – pain-free and perfect. That special someone reaching out to you – our Heavenly Father with the words “Well done, good and faithful servant!”
Prayer
Lord Jesus, thank you for finishing the earthly race as my substitute! Guide me as I train for this race, but, more importantly, be with me as I finish the race and complete the task that you’ve given me of testifying to your grace! Amen.
Thank You
Since this was our final devotion together, I wanted to take a moment to thank you for joining me on this journey. It's been an awesome, humbling experience to write these devotions. While I've been processing my own grief, it has always been my prayer that God would use my pain for His purposes, and I feel like God has answered that prayer by giving me this outlet. I rejoice that you've all been a part of it!
I pray that God has worked something awesome in you during your time of grief as well! May the blood of His Son always remind you that you have the hope of heaven!
God's blessings,
Stacy
Friday, November 12, 2010
Thursday, November 11, 2010
A Spirit of Celebration
Training for Today: Rest
Devotion: A Spirit of Celebration
Are you ready to celebrate? We’re almost there!
When I think of the word “celebrate”, I think of a song by Kenny Loggins that’s frequently played around Christmas time called, “Celebrate Me Home”. It’s about a person far-removed from his loved ones who somehow wishes that their spirit of celebration could bring him home. (It’s difficult to be away from those we love, but the holidays seem to bring out those feelings even more!)
Yesterday, we talked about remembering those we’ve lost. Today, we’ll take it one step further and celebrate those loved ones home in our memories. Let’s celebrate who our loved ones were and what they meant to us. Let’s celebrate them as God’s workmanship. Let’s celebrate them as lives that were meant to influence us on our spiritual journeys. As it says in Ephesians 2:10, “We are God’s workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.” We can’t ignore the end of life as an opportunity for God to accomplish his purposes!
While we celebrate our loved ones home through our memories, let’s also celebrate that our loved ones are in their eternal home in heaven:
3 “Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! In his great mercy he has given us new birth into a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, 4 and into an inheritance that can never perish, spoil or fade. This inheritance is kept in heaven for you, 5 who through faith are shielded by God’s power until the coming of the salvation that is ready to be revealed in the last time” (1 Peter 1:3-5).
Because of Christ’s death and resurrection, we can celebrate life. We can celebrate the lives of those who have been with us. We can celebrate the memories we have that keep that life with us. But, most importantly, we can celebrate the eternal life that our loved ones are living; we can celebrate them home!
Prayer
Dear Heavenly Father, I thank you that, through your Son Jesus, I can celebrate the fact that the loved ones I’ve lost are at home with you in heaven. Thank you also for the ability to celebrate life through the blessing of memories. Amen.
Devotion: A Spirit of Celebration
Are you ready to celebrate? We’re almost there!
When I think of the word “celebrate”, I think of a song by Kenny Loggins that’s frequently played around Christmas time called, “Celebrate Me Home”. It’s about a person far-removed from his loved ones who somehow wishes that their spirit of celebration could bring him home. (It’s difficult to be away from those we love, but the holidays seem to bring out those feelings even more!)
Yesterday, we talked about remembering those we’ve lost. Today, we’ll take it one step further and celebrate those loved ones home in our memories. Let’s celebrate who our loved ones were and what they meant to us. Let’s celebrate them as God’s workmanship. Let’s celebrate them as lives that were meant to influence us on our spiritual journeys. As it says in Ephesians 2:10, “We are God’s workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.” We can’t ignore the end of life as an opportunity for God to accomplish his purposes!
While we celebrate our loved ones home through our memories, let’s also celebrate that our loved ones are in their eternal home in heaven:
3 “Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! In his great mercy he has given us new birth into a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, 4 and into an inheritance that can never perish, spoil or fade. This inheritance is kept in heaven for you, 5 who through faith are shielded by God’s power until the coming of the salvation that is ready to be revealed in the last time” (1 Peter 1:3-5).
Because of Christ’s death and resurrection, we can celebrate life. We can celebrate the lives of those who have been with us. We can celebrate the memories we have that keep that life with us. But, most importantly, we can celebrate the eternal life that our loved ones are living; we can celebrate them home!
Prayer
Dear Heavenly Father, I thank you that, through your Son Jesus, I can celebrate the fact that the loved ones I’ve lost are at home with you in heaven. Thank you also for the ability to celebrate life through the blessing of memories. Amen.
Wednesday, November 10, 2010
Remembering
Training for Today: Run 2 miles
Devotion: Remembering
As our time together draws to a close, I want to encourage you to remember. Remember where you were physically, mentally, emotionally, and spiritually during the early stages of your grief. Remember the turning points you’ve had along the way, those moments when God opened your eyes to a piece of His plan, empowered you to tell your story, or simply drew you closer to Him. And, remember the person you are right now as you move into the future.
Beyond remembering your journey, remember your child (or children). Remember the feelings of gladness you had when you knew they were on their way. Remember the joy you shared with family and friends. If your child joined you in your earthly walk, remember the smiles, the personality, and the bond. Remember God’s creation.
Remember the purpose of your loss: to draw you closer, to refine you, and to equip you for service to your Savior.
When you remember your grief, your child(ren), and the purpose of your loss, remember the loving God who carried you along the way. Remember the gracious God who, through His Son Jesus, promised to forget every one of your sins! Rather, “He has remembered his love and his faithfulness to Israel; all the ends of the earth have seen the salvation of our God” (Psalm 98:3). Finally, remember the One who knows where you’ve been and holds your future in His hands.
Prayer
Dear Heavenly Father, when I am tempted to forget all that you’ve accomplished in my life, remind me of your love and faithfulness. Continue to draw me closer to you every day! Amen.
Devotion: Remembering
As our time together draws to a close, I want to encourage you to remember. Remember where you were physically, mentally, emotionally, and spiritually during the early stages of your grief. Remember the turning points you’ve had along the way, those moments when God opened your eyes to a piece of His plan, empowered you to tell your story, or simply drew you closer to Him. And, remember the person you are right now as you move into the future.
Beyond remembering your journey, remember your child (or children). Remember the feelings of gladness you had when you knew they were on their way. Remember the joy you shared with family and friends. If your child joined you in your earthly walk, remember the smiles, the personality, and the bond. Remember God’s creation.
Remember the purpose of your loss: to draw you closer, to refine you, and to equip you for service to your Savior.
When you remember your grief, your child(ren), and the purpose of your loss, remember the loving God who carried you along the way. Remember the gracious God who, through His Son Jesus, promised to forget every one of your sins! Rather, “He has remembered his love and his faithfulness to Israel; all the ends of the earth have seen the salvation of our God” (Psalm 98:3). Finally, remember the One who knows where you’ve been and holds your future in His hands.
Prayer
Dear Heavenly Father, when I am tempted to forget all that you’ve accomplished in my life, remind me of your love and faithfulness. Continue to draw me closer to you every day! Amen.
Tuesday, November 9, 2010
Let Your Light Shine
Training for Today: Rest
Devotion: Let Your Light Shine
If you haven’t noticed, our final week focuses on the active way you respond to your grief and to God’s goodness in your life. We’ve talked about singing to God with your life and pouring out the message of the Gospel. Indeed, this is part of God’s purpose for our suffering!
But today, it’s your time to shine! The stage is set, and God has beautifully outfitted you for your performance. We are equipped to shine not only by what we’ve been through during our grief, but also by the Savior who took us out of the darkness of sin and brought us into the light of His salvation! Your light has been turned on, so let it shine!
However, there are a few key differences between a theatrical performance and God’s call on your life to let your light shine. First, your life is to be a consistent, enduring witness, not a limited-time-only performance or a coming attraction. Second, you don’t need any fancy stage lights – you are the light! Here’s the evidence:
14 “You are the light of the world. A town built on a hill cannot be hidden. 15 Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house. 16 In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven” (Matthew 5:14-16).
“Those who are wise will shine like the brightness of the heavens, and those who lead many to righteousness, like the stars for ever and ever” (Daniel 12:3).
14 “Do everything without grumbling or arguing, 15 so that you may become blameless and pure, ‘children of God without fault in a warped and crooked generation.’ Then you will shine among them like stars in the sky 16 as you hold firmly to the word of life” (Philippians 2:14-16a).
Don’t hide your light in the darkness you felt surrounding your grief. Let it shine for all to see, especially for those who need hope and inspiration to make it through their own struggles. Say to your heavenly Father and to all the world, “I’ll leave a light on for you!”
Prayer
Dear Lord, forgive me for the times when I’ve been selfish, reserved, or complacent about letting my light shine for others. Empower me by your Spirit to proclaim what you have done in my life and for the salvation of all. Amen.
Devotion: Let Your Light Shine
If you haven’t noticed, our final week focuses on the active way you respond to your grief and to God’s goodness in your life. We’ve talked about singing to God with your life and pouring out the message of the Gospel. Indeed, this is part of God’s purpose for our suffering!
But today, it’s your time to shine! The stage is set, and God has beautifully outfitted you for your performance. We are equipped to shine not only by what we’ve been through during our grief, but also by the Savior who took us out of the darkness of sin and brought us into the light of His salvation! Your light has been turned on, so let it shine!
However, there are a few key differences between a theatrical performance and God’s call on your life to let your light shine. First, your life is to be a consistent, enduring witness, not a limited-time-only performance or a coming attraction. Second, you don’t need any fancy stage lights – you are the light! Here’s the evidence:
14 “You are the light of the world. A town built on a hill cannot be hidden. 15 Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house. 16 In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven” (Matthew 5:14-16).
“Those who are wise will shine like the brightness of the heavens, and those who lead many to righteousness, like the stars for ever and ever” (Daniel 12:3).
14 “Do everything without grumbling or arguing, 15 so that you may become blameless and pure, ‘children of God without fault in a warped and crooked generation.’ Then you will shine among them like stars in the sky 16 as you hold firmly to the word of life” (Philippians 2:14-16a).
Don’t hide your light in the darkness you felt surrounding your grief. Let it shine for all to see, especially for those who need hope and inspiration to make it through their own struggles. Say to your heavenly Father and to all the world, “I’ll leave a light on for you!”
Prayer
Dear Lord, forgive me for the times when I’ve been selfish, reserved, or complacent about letting my light shine for others. Empower me by your Spirit to proclaim what you have done in my life and for the salvation of all. Amen.
Monday, November 8, 2010
Pouring Out
Training for Today: Run 2 miles
Devotion: Pouring Out
What have you poured out so far today? Have you poured juice or milk for a child today? Have you poured your morning cup of coffee? This may seem like an obvious statement, but, in order for you to have poured that juice, milk, or coffee, the container needed to be full.
As you think about today’s title, perhaps you’re first struck by the idea of all the pouring out you’ve done as part of the grieving process. We pour out tears. We pour out emotions. We pour out frustrations.
While this outpouring can be beneficial and healing for those who grieve, God has more in mind for us than pouring out our perspective. God asks us to pour out in a different way. In 2 Timothy 4, Paul discusses the manner in which he is poured out, but, in his case, he is being called upon to pour out the message of the Gospel. Here’s what Paul says:
“For I am already being poured out like a drink offering, and the time has come for my departure. I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. Now there is in store for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will award to me on that day – and not only to me, but also to all who have longed for his appearing.”
It is easy for those who grieve to focus on what they need to pour out for healing. But, in His great wisdom, God uses our times of grief to draw us closer to Him and fill us with the message of Christ. God fills us with a new perspective and then asks us to use it to His glory. So, in addition to the juice, milk, or coffee, pour out your love for Jesus!
Prayer
Lord, forgive me for the times when I am consumed by pouring out my grief. Fill me with your love, your grace, and the ability to pour out the Gospel to the people around me. Amen.
Devotion: Pouring Out
What have you poured out so far today? Have you poured juice or milk for a child today? Have you poured your morning cup of coffee? This may seem like an obvious statement, but, in order for you to have poured that juice, milk, or coffee, the container needed to be full.
As you think about today’s title, perhaps you’re first struck by the idea of all the pouring out you’ve done as part of the grieving process. We pour out tears. We pour out emotions. We pour out frustrations.
While this outpouring can be beneficial and healing for those who grieve, God has more in mind for us than pouring out our perspective. God asks us to pour out in a different way. In 2 Timothy 4, Paul discusses the manner in which he is poured out, but, in his case, he is being called upon to pour out the message of the Gospel. Here’s what Paul says:
“For I am already being poured out like a drink offering, and the time has come for my departure. I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. Now there is in store for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will award to me on that day – and not only to me, but also to all who have longed for his appearing.”
It is easy for those who grieve to focus on what they need to pour out for healing. But, in His great wisdom, God uses our times of grief to draw us closer to Him and fill us with the message of Christ. God fills us with a new perspective and then asks us to use it to His glory. So, in addition to the juice, milk, or coffee, pour out your love for Jesus!
Prayer
Lord, forgive me for the times when I am consumed by pouring out my grief. Fill me with your love, your grace, and the ability to pour out the Gospel to the people around me. Amen.
Sunday, November 7, 2010
I Will Sing to the Lord, for He Has Been Good to Me
Training for Today: Rest
Devotion: I Will Sing to the Lord, for He Has Been Good to Me
Welcome to the final week of our devotions. During this final week, we’ll reflect on the final verse of Psalm 13: “I will sing to the Lord, for He has been good to me.”
These last days of processing our grief together won’t be your last days of reflecting on and remembering your loss. But, it is my hope that the Lord uses this week’s theme to remind you of His amazing intentions for you and a plan for your life that sees beyond our limited human vision.
Though it may feel a little weird, I want you to speak the words of our theme verse out loud. Yep, just do it. In my own response to grief, uttering the words of this verse chokes me up every time. To say that our losses could ever be viewed as something good might seem like an injustice to you. But, with our hearts and souls in mind, God allowed our suffering for that very purpose: to be good to us. Can you recognize the good – God’s good – in your experiences?
As we say the familiar words of Psalm 23, we speak of God’s unending goodness: “Surely your goodness and love will follow me all the days of my life, and I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever.” Though God may have felt distant at the time of your loss, His goodness and love were with you. Though your heart might still hurt, His goodness and love are with you. And, though you might face more pain and loss in the future, His goodness and love will be with you.
Yes, God’s goodness is certainly evident during our earthly trials. But nowhere is it more evident than in the life, suffering, death, and resurrection of Jesus! Sins gone, debt paid, travel documents to heaven confirmed – all through Jesus! God orchestrated His entire plan of salvation for your good – your eternal good!
The final point of our devotion today is that, like the psalmist, we should sing to the Lord in response to His goodness. “I will sing to the Lord, for He has been good to me.” It’s time to let your life’s response to loss sing the Lord’s praises:
1 “Shout for joy to the LORD, all the earth.
2 Worship the LORD with gladness;
come before him with joyful songs.
3 Know that the LORD is God.
It is he who made us, and we are his;
we are his people, the sheep of his pasture.
4 Enter his gates with thanksgiving
and his courts with praise;
give thanks to him and praise his name.
5 For the LORD is good and his love endures forever;
his faithfulness continues through all generations” (Psalm 100).
Sing to the Lord, for He has been good to you. Through it all, the Lord has, and is, and will be good to you!
Prayer
Dear Lord, I praise you for your goodness! Help me each and every day to recognize that your goodness and love truly do follow me all the days of my life. Let my life sing of your goodness. Amen.
Devotion: I Will Sing to the Lord, for He Has Been Good to Me
Welcome to the final week of our devotions. During this final week, we’ll reflect on the final verse of Psalm 13: “I will sing to the Lord, for He has been good to me.”
These last days of processing our grief together won’t be your last days of reflecting on and remembering your loss. But, it is my hope that the Lord uses this week’s theme to remind you of His amazing intentions for you and a plan for your life that sees beyond our limited human vision.
Though it may feel a little weird, I want you to speak the words of our theme verse out loud. Yep, just do it. In my own response to grief, uttering the words of this verse chokes me up every time. To say that our losses could ever be viewed as something good might seem like an injustice to you. But, with our hearts and souls in mind, God allowed our suffering for that very purpose: to be good to us. Can you recognize the good – God’s good – in your experiences?
As we say the familiar words of Psalm 23, we speak of God’s unending goodness: “Surely your goodness and love will follow me all the days of my life, and I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever.” Though God may have felt distant at the time of your loss, His goodness and love were with you. Though your heart might still hurt, His goodness and love are with you. And, though you might face more pain and loss in the future, His goodness and love will be with you.
Yes, God’s goodness is certainly evident during our earthly trials. But nowhere is it more evident than in the life, suffering, death, and resurrection of Jesus! Sins gone, debt paid, travel documents to heaven confirmed – all through Jesus! God orchestrated His entire plan of salvation for your good – your eternal good!
The final point of our devotion today is that, like the psalmist, we should sing to the Lord in response to His goodness. “I will sing to the Lord, for He has been good to me.” It’s time to let your life’s response to loss sing the Lord’s praises:
1 “Shout for joy to the LORD, all the earth.
2 Worship the LORD with gladness;
come before him with joyful songs.
3 Know that the LORD is God.
It is he who made us, and we are his;
we are his people, the sheep of his pasture.
4 Enter his gates with thanksgiving
and his courts with praise;
give thanks to him and praise his name.
5 For the LORD is good and his love endures forever;
his faithfulness continues through all generations” (Psalm 100).
Sing to the Lord, for He has been good to you. Through it all, the Lord has, and is, and will be good to you!
Prayer
Dear Lord, I praise you for your goodness! Help me each and every day to recognize that your goodness and love truly do follow me all the days of my life. Let my life sing of your goodness. Amen.
Saturday, November 6, 2010
Living Joy
Training for Today: Run 10 miles (last long run before race day!)
Devotion: Living Joy
This week, we’ve been reflecting on the theme, “My heart rejoices in your salvation.” What does the word “rejoice” mean to you? What does it look like to rejoice? Are you ready to rejoice? These are a few of the questions that we’ll work through in our devotion today.
In terms of the meaning of the word “rejoice”, technically it means to feel joy. While it may be difficult to think of your loss and experience joy at the same time, this week’s verse challenges you to look beyond your loss to the empty cross. The grieving person’s joy will never be found again if her eyes focus in on the loss itself. Rather, the grieving person finds joy when her eyes lift toward the cross and fixate on its full meaning:
“Once you were alienated from God and were enemies in your minds because of your evil behavior. But now he has reconciled you by Christ’s physical body through death to present you holy in his sight, without blemish and free from accusation—if you continue in your faith, established and firm, and do not move from the hope held out in the gospel” (Colossians 1:21-23).
Yes, the empty cross is the source of your joy, because it is the source of your salvation! But what does it look like to rejoice? The second part of our devotion today will focus on living the joy we have in Christ. Check out some of the behaviors associated with living joy in Scripture:
“The LORD is my strength and my shield; my heart trusts in him, and he helps me. My heart leaps for joy, and with my song I praise him” (Psalm 28:7).
“Clap your hands, all you nations; shout to God with cries of joy” (Psalm 47:1).
“Worship the LORD with gladness; come before him with joyful songs” (Psalm 100:2).
“Sing for joy, you heavens, for the LORD has done this; shout aloud, you earth beneath. Burst into song, you mountains, you forests and all your trees, for the LORD has redeemed Jacob, he displays his glory in Israel” (Isaiah 44:23).
Have you responded to God’s grace in your life with joy? Are you living joyfully as a servant of the Almighty? If so, keep leaping for joy, clapping your hands, shouting, singing, and worshiping the Lord with gladness! If not, pray that the Lord would grant you a rich measure of the Holy Spirit, to fill you with the joy that comes from knowing you are saved through Jesus Christ.
Prayer
Dear Lord, forgive me for turning my eyes inward and dwelling on the trials and frustrations of this world. Lift my eyes to the cross, that I may experience the joy of your salvation. May my life be a joyful response to your love! Amen.
Devotion: Living Joy
This week, we’ve been reflecting on the theme, “My heart rejoices in your salvation.” What does the word “rejoice” mean to you? What does it look like to rejoice? Are you ready to rejoice? These are a few of the questions that we’ll work through in our devotion today.
In terms of the meaning of the word “rejoice”, technically it means to feel joy. While it may be difficult to think of your loss and experience joy at the same time, this week’s verse challenges you to look beyond your loss to the empty cross. The grieving person’s joy will never be found again if her eyes focus in on the loss itself. Rather, the grieving person finds joy when her eyes lift toward the cross and fixate on its full meaning:
“Once you were alienated from God and were enemies in your minds because of your evil behavior. But now he has reconciled you by Christ’s physical body through death to present you holy in his sight, without blemish and free from accusation—if you continue in your faith, established and firm, and do not move from the hope held out in the gospel” (Colossians 1:21-23).
Yes, the empty cross is the source of your joy, because it is the source of your salvation! But what does it look like to rejoice? The second part of our devotion today will focus on living the joy we have in Christ. Check out some of the behaviors associated with living joy in Scripture:
“The LORD is my strength and my shield; my heart trusts in him, and he helps me. My heart leaps for joy, and with my song I praise him” (Psalm 28:7).
“Clap your hands, all you nations; shout to God with cries of joy” (Psalm 47:1).
“Worship the LORD with gladness; come before him with joyful songs” (Psalm 100:2).
“Sing for joy, you heavens, for the LORD has done this; shout aloud, you earth beneath. Burst into song, you mountains, you forests and all your trees, for the LORD has redeemed Jacob, he displays his glory in Israel” (Isaiah 44:23).
Have you responded to God’s grace in your life with joy? Are you living joyfully as a servant of the Almighty? If so, keep leaping for joy, clapping your hands, shouting, singing, and worshiping the Lord with gladness! If not, pray that the Lord would grant you a rich measure of the Holy Spirit, to fill you with the joy that comes from knowing you are saved through Jesus Christ.
Prayer
Dear Lord, forgive me for turning my eyes inward and dwelling on the trials and frustrations of this world. Lift my eyes to the cross, that I may experience the joy of your salvation. May my life be a joyful response to your love! Amen.
Friday, November 5, 2010
Family Reunion
Training for Today: Cross-train for 60 minutes
Devotion: Family Reunion
Remember how great the first hug feels after you’ve been away from a loved one for a while? I certainly do! My husband used to travel overseas for work several times a year, usually for 7-10 days at a time. While he was away, my arms longed to wrap around him in a great big hug. I’d imagine that moment at the airport when our eyes would finally meet and I could run and throw my arms around him. Those reunions were tough to wait for; the anticipation was overwhelming. But, boy did that reuniting moment make all of the frustrations disappear! Can you remember a moment like that?
As I think back to my husband’s travels for work, I see a comparison to Christian loss unfolding. The loved ones we’ve lost are waiting at home, in the perfection of heaven. Their earthly work for God’s kingdom is done, whether it was accomplished physically on this earth or spiritually in our hearts. For the rest of us, we’re still at work, carrying on the commands of the Great Commission to share the good news of the Gospel message.
So let’s carry on with our mission until the day God declares that our work is done. At that moment, we’ll experience a family reunion that puts our earthly reunions to shame. While these earthly moments are very special, they pale in comparison to the family reunion that will be ours through Christ! As it says in 1 Corinthians 15:20-22: “But Christ has indeed been raised from the dead, the firstfruits of those who have fallen asleep. For since death came through a man, the resurrection of the dead comes also through a man. For as in Adam all die, so in Christ all will be made alive.”
In Christ, all will be made alive! Our heavenly reunion is a certainty!
Prayer
Dear Heavenly Father, today my heart rejoices in the salvation you’ve given me through your Son, because it guarantees me a family reunion beyond my comprehension. Sometimes it’s hard to wait for that reunion. Until you call me home, fill me with a sense of your purpose and the courage to share the Gospel. Amen.
Devotion: Family Reunion
Remember how great the first hug feels after you’ve been away from a loved one for a while? I certainly do! My husband used to travel overseas for work several times a year, usually for 7-10 days at a time. While he was away, my arms longed to wrap around him in a great big hug. I’d imagine that moment at the airport when our eyes would finally meet and I could run and throw my arms around him. Those reunions were tough to wait for; the anticipation was overwhelming. But, boy did that reuniting moment make all of the frustrations disappear! Can you remember a moment like that?
As I think back to my husband’s travels for work, I see a comparison to Christian loss unfolding. The loved ones we’ve lost are waiting at home, in the perfection of heaven. Their earthly work for God’s kingdom is done, whether it was accomplished physically on this earth or spiritually in our hearts. For the rest of us, we’re still at work, carrying on the commands of the Great Commission to share the good news of the Gospel message.
So let’s carry on with our mission until the day God declares that our work is done. At that moment, we’ll experience a family reunion that puts our earthly reunions to shame. While these earthly moments are very special, they pale in comparison to the family reunion that will be ours through Christ! As it says in 1 Corinthians 15:20-22: “But Christ has indeed been raised from the dead, the firstfruits of those who have fallen asleep. For since death came through a man, the resurrection of the dead comes also through a man. For as in Adam all die, so in Christ all will be made alive.”
In Christ, all will be made alive! Our heavenly reunion is a certainty!
Prayer
Dear Heavenly Father, today my heart rejoices in the salvation you’ve given me through your Son, because it guarantees me a family reunion beyond my comprehension. Sometimes it’s hard to wait for that reunion. Until you call me home, fill me with a sense of your purpose and the courage to share the Gospel. Amen.
Thursday, November 4, 2010
Fly to Jesus
Training for Today: Rest
Devotion: Fly to Jesus
Today’s devotion is especially personal, but I want to share a moment with you. It’s from the heart and about the heart. We can think about the heart from many different perspectives, whether it’s the collective emotions we feel toward someone or something, or the part of the anatomy that sustains life with its beat.
Right after my most difficult loss, I remember wondering when the final moment of life had occurred for my baby. When was that final heartbeat? (To an expecting mother, the heartbeat is the measure of life.) And, once that final heartbeat sounded, what did that little one experience?
In my own heart, I imagined that little one being caught up in the warmth of the Father’s arms. I imagined the freedom from life’s burdens. And, I imagined heaven’s rejoicing that my little one was safely home.
On my way to work one morning, with these images in my mind, I turned on my car radio. My timing (or God’s timing) couldn’t have been better. A song began playing that added a salience to my images that I never thought possible, and I’d like to share it with you.
Perhaps you’ve had similar reflections about the heart of loss. When was the final heartbeat? What did your own heart experience on behalf of the one you’d lost? Through Christ, we have the confidence that, though our final heartbeats may be the end of life on earth, they are the beginning of an eternal life in the perfection of heaven. Fly to Jesus!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1T-VfypD8j4&feature=related
Prayer
Dear Jesus, thank you for coming to earth as our ransom. Because of you, we know that your loving arms await us in our heavenly home. My heart rejoices in your promises! Amen.
Devotion: Fly to Jesus
Today’s devotion is especially personal, but I want to share a moment with you. It’s from the heart and about the heart. We can think about the heart from many different perspectives, whether it’s the collective emotions we feel toward someone or something, or the part of the anatomy that sustains life with its beat.
Right after my most difficult loss, I remember wondering when the final moment of life had occurred for my baby. When was that final heartbeat? (To an expecting mother, the heartbeat is the measure of life.) And, once that final heartbeat sounded, what did that little one experience?
In my own heart, I imagined that little one being caught up in the warmth of the Father’s arms. I imagined the freedom from life’s burdens. And, I imagined heaven’s rejoicing that my little one was safely home.
On my way to work one morning, with these images in my mind, I turned on my car radio. My timing (or God’s timing) couldn’t have been better. A song began playing that added a salience to my images that I never thought possible, and I’d like to share it with you.
Perhaps you’ve had similar reflections about the heart of loss. When was the final heartbeat? What did your own heart experience on behalf of the one you’d lost? Through Christ, we have the confidence that, though our final heartbeats may be the end of life on earth, they are the beginning of an eternal life in the perfection of heaven. Fly to Jesus!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1T-VfypD8j4&feature=related
Prayer
Dear Jesus, thank you for coming to earth as our ransom. Because of you, we know that your loving arms await us in our heavenly home. My heart rejoices in your promises! Amen.
Wednesday, November 3, 2010
The Hope of Heaven
Training for Today: Run 5 miles
Devotion: The Hope of Heaven
OK, it’s time for a gut check. In this grieving process we’ve undertaken together, the ultimate goal is to gradually change the self-focus of the early grieving period into a God-focus that can go the distance. Has your gaze lifted from the ground? Has your downcast expression given way to a glimmer of hope in your eyes?
Embrace this transformation, my friends! Lift your eyes to the One who has given you the hope of heaven! To remind you of how certain that hope is, read the following description of the coming of the Lord from 1 Thessalonians 4:13-17:
13 “Brothers, we do not want you to be ignorant about those who fall asleep, or to grieve like the rest of men, who have no hope. 14We believe that Jesus died and rose again and so we believe that God will bring with Jesus those who have fallen asleep in him. 15According to the Lord's own word, we tell you that we who are still alive, who are left till the coming of the Lord, will certainly not precede those who have fallen asleep. 16For the Lord himself will come down from heaven, with a loud command, with the voice of the archangel and with the trumpet call of God, and the dead in Christ will rise first. 17After that, we who are still alive and are left will be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air. And so we will be with the Lord forever.”
God has given us His word! Our hope is secure! And we will be with the Lord forever! Look heavenward and wait upon the Lord. In Him, we have been set free from our sins. In Him, we need not fear the grave. In Him, we have the hope of heaven.
Prayer
My hope is built on nothing less
Than Jesus’ blood and righteousness.
I dare not trust the sweetest frame,
But wholly trust in Jesus’ Name.
On Christ the solid Rock I stand,
All other ground is sinking sand.
When darkness seems to hide His face,
I rest on His unchanging grace.
In every high and stormy gale,
My anchor holds within the veil.
On Christ the solid Rock I stand,
All other ground is sinking sand.
His oath, His covenant, His blood,
Support me in the whelming flood.
When all around my soul gives way,
He then is all my Hope and Stay.
On Christ the solid Rock I stand,
All other ground is sinking sand.
When He shall come with trumpet sound,
Oh may I then in Him be found.
Dressed in His righteousness alone,
Faultless to stand before the throne.
On Christ the solid Rock I stand,
All other ground is sinking sand. Amen!
Devotion: The Hope of Heaven
OK, it’s time for a gut check. In this grieving process we’ve undertaken together, the ultimate goal is to gradually change the self-focus of the early grieving period into a God-focus that can go the distance. Has your gaze lifted from the ground? Has your downcast expression given way to a glimmer of hope in your eyes?
Embrace this transformation, my friends! Lift your eyes to the One who has given you the hope of heaven! To remind you of how certain that hope is, read the following description of the coming of the Lord from 1 Thessalonians 4:13-17:
13 “Brothers, we do not want you to be ignorant about those who fall asleep, or to grieve like the rest of men, who have no hope. 14We believe that Jesus died and rose again and so we believe that God will bring with Jesus those who have fallen asleep in him. 15According to the Lord's own word, we tell you that we who are still alive, who are left till the coming of the Lord, will certainly not precede those who have fallen asleep. 16For the Lord himself will come down from heaven, with a loud command, with the voice of the archangel and with the trumpet call of God, and the dead in Christ will rise first. 17After that, we who are still alive and are left will be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air. And so we will be with the Lord forever.”
God has given us His word! Our hope is secure! And we will be with the Lord forever! Look heavenward and wait upon the Lord. In Him, we have been set free from our sins. In Him, we need not fear the grave. In Him, we have the hope of heaven.
Prayer
My hope is built on nothing less
Than Jesus’ blood and righteousness.
I dare not trust the sweetest frame,
But wholly trust in Jesus’ Name.
On Christ the solid Rock I stand,
All other ground is sinking sand.
When darkness seems to hide His face,
I rest on His unchanging grace.
In every high and stormy gale,
My anchor holds within the veil.
On Christ the solid Rock I stand,
All other ground is sinking sand.
His oath, His covenant, His blood,
Support me in the whelming flood.
When all around my soul gives way,
He then is all my Hope and Stay.
On Christ the solid Rock I stand,
All other ground is sinking sand.
When He shall come with trumpet sound,
Oh may I then in Him be found.
Dressed in His righteousness alone,
Faultless to stand before the throne.
On Christ the solid Rock I stand,
All other ground is sinking sand. Amen!
Tuesday, November 2, 2010
The Victory is Mine!
Training for Today: Cross-train for 30 minutes
Devotion: The Victory is Mine!
When was the last time you declared a victory in your life? What have you conquered? Whether it’s winning a sporting event, a board game, signing a big contract, or putting away the last load of laundry, we all love to have moments of accomplishment and the satisfaction of a job well done. What was your most recent victory?
When it comes to grief and loss, it’s easy to lose sight of the victories in our lives, no matter how small or inconsequential. We might be tempted to think, “So what. Nothing seems to overpower my feelings of loss right now.” If we allow ourselves to lose sight of victory, we might be missing out on the greatest victory of all:
“‘Death has been swallowed up in victory. Where, O death, is your victory? Where, O death, is your sting?’ The sting of death is sin, and the power of sin is the law. But thanks be to God! He gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ” (1 Corinthians 15:55-57).
What’s awesome about this victory is that it’s not something I have to strive for, work for, or earn. God gives me this victory over sin and death. He gives you that victory over sin and death. He gave that victory to our children in heaven. It’s just another example of His unfailing love! Christ took the sting out of death; he rendered it completely powerless over those who trust in His name!
While it’s important to celebrate our small victories on earth, it’s even more important to celebrate the eternal victory you have through Christ! The victory is mine!
Prayer
Dear Lord, thank you for declaring victory over sin and death in my place! Remind me to celebrate your blessings in my life, especially the blessing of knowing that heaven awaits. Amen.
Devotion: The Victory is Mine!
When was the last time you declared a victory in your life? What have you conquered? Whether it’s winning a sporting event, a board game, signing a big contract, or putting away the last load of laundry, we all love to have moments of accomplishment and the satisfaction of a job well done. What was your most recent victory?
When it comes to grief and loss, it’s easy to lose sight of the victories in our lives, no matter how small or inconsequential. We might be tempted to think, “So what. Nothing seems to overpower my feelings of loss right now.” If we allow ourselves to lose sight of victory, we might be missing out on the greatest victory of all:
“‘Death has been swallowed up in victory. Where, O death, is your victory? Where, O death, is your sting?’ The sting of death is sin, and the power of sin is the law. But thanks be to God! He gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ” (1 Corinthians 15:55-57).
What’s awesome about this victory is that it’s not something I have to strive for, work for, or earn. God gives me this victory over sin and death. He gives you that victory over sin and death. He gave that victory to our children in heaven. It’s just another example of His unfailing love! Christ took the sting out of death; he rendered it completely powerless over those who trust in His name!
While it’s important to celebrate our small victories on earth, it’s even more important to celebrate the eternal victory you have through Christ! The victory is mine!
Prayer
Dear Lord, thank you for declaring victory over sin and death in my place! Remind me to celebrate your blessings in my life, especially the blessing of knowing that heaven awaits. Amen.
Monday, November 1, 2010
In Christ Alone
Training for Today: Run 5 miles
Devotion: In Christ Alone
While this devotion was easy to write (or copy and paste), the message has had a profound impact on my life. Because of this powerful message, today’s devotion features the words to “In Christ Alone.” Read on:
In Christ alone my hope is found,
He is my light, my strength, my song;
this Cornerstone, this solid Ground,
firm through the fiercest drought and storm.
What heights of love, what depths of peace,
when fears are stilled, when strivings cease!
My Comforter, my All in All,
here in the love of Christ I stand.
In Christ alone! who took on flesh
Fullness of God in helpless babe!
This gift of love and righteousness
Scorned by the ones he came to save:
Till on that cross as Jesus died,
The wrath of God was satisfied -
For every sin on Him was laid;
Here in the death of Christ I live.
There in the ground His body lay
Light of the world by darkness slain:
Then bursting forth in glorious Day
Up from the grave he rose again!
And as He stands in victory
Sin's curse has lost its grip on me,
For I am His and He is mine -
Bought with the precious blood of Christ.
No guilt in life, no fear in death,
This is the power of Christ in me;
From life's first cry to final breath.
Jesus commands my destiny.
No power of hell, no scheme of man,
Can ever pluck me from His hand;
Till He returns or calls me home,
Here in the power of Christ I'll stand.
Amen to that! I pray that this beautiful portrayal of the Gospel message has inspired you as much as it has me!
Prayer
Dear Father in Heaven, thank you for the gracious gift of your Son, Jesus Christ. Through Him alone, I have forgiveness, peace and the promise of heaven. Amen.
Devotion: In Christ Alone
While this devotion was easy to write (or copy and paste), the message has had a profound impact on my life. Because of this powerful message, today’s devotion features the words to “In Christ Alone.” Read on:
In Christ alone my hope is found,
He is my light, my strength, my song;
this Cornerstone, this solid Ground,
firm through the fiercest drought and storm.
What heights of love, what depths of peace,
when fears are stilled, when strivings cease!
My Comforter, my All in All,
here in the love of Christ I stand.
In Christ alone! who took on flesh
Fullness of God in helpless babe!
This gift of love and righteousness
Scorned by the ones he came to save:
Till on that cross as Jesus died,
The wrath of God was satisfied -
For every sin on Him was laid;
Here in the death of Christ I live.
There in the ground His body lay
Light of the world by darkness slain:
Then bursting forth in glorious Day
Up from the grave he rose again!
And as He stands in victory
Sin's curse has lost its grip on me,
For I am His and He is mine -
Bought with the precious blood of Christ.
No guilt in life, no fear in death,
This is the power of Christ in me;
From life's first cry to final breath.
Jesus commands my destiny.
No power of hell, no scheme of man,
Can ever pluck me from His hand;
Till He returns or calls me home,
Here in the power of Christ I'll stand.
Amen to that! I pray that this beautiful portrayal of the Gospel message has inspired you as much as it has me!
Prayer
Dear Father in Heaven, thank you for the gracious gift of your Son, Jesus Christ. Through Him alone, I have forgiveness, peace and the promise of heaven. Amen.
Sunday, October 31, 2010
My Heart Rejoices in Your Salvation
Training for Today: Rest
Devotion: My Heart Rejoices in Your Salvation
Welcome to week 7! You can see that our theme for this week is about rejoicing in God’s promise of salvation. Can’t you feel the positivity building as we near the end of our journey? It’s amazing at this stage to look back at the somber focus of our early themes:
• How long, O Lord? Will you forget me forever? How long will you hide your face from me?
• How long must I wrestle with my thoughts and every day have sorrow in my heart? How long will my enemy triumph over me?
And to think that the same psalmist wrote these questions just a few short verses before our theme for today: My heart rejoices in your salvation! I’m hoping that, as you’ve read the devotions and reflected on your grief, you’ve reached a place where you can honestly say to the Lord, “My heart rejoices in your salvation!” Here’s a fantastic, joyful image of what it means to rejoice in the Lord’s salvation:
“I delight greatly in the LORD; my soul rejoices in my God. For he has clothed me with garments of salvation and arrayed me in a robe of righteousness, as a bridegroom adorns his head like a priest, and as a bride adorns herself with her jewels” (Isaiah 61:10).
What an awesome image! Close your eyes and picture yourself being clothed by God in your garments of salvation. He’s stripped you of your sinfulness. He’s washed away every stain, scar, blemish, or imperfection in your heart. He’s clothed you as His bride! (No one has impeccable fashion sense like our amazing God!)
When you picture yourself being clothed with salvation this way, how can your heart help but rejoice? When you picture the people you’ve lost being clothed with salvation this way, how can your heart help but rejoice?
Prayer
Dear Heavenly Father, I praise you for your wisdom, might, and power. I praise you for your glorious plan of salvation. I praise you for washing me clean and clothing me with your salvation. My heart rejoices in you! Amen.
Devotion: My Heart Rejoices in Your Salvation
Welcome to week 7! You can see that our theme for this week is about rejoicing in God’s promise of salvation. Can’t you feel the positivity building as we near the end of our journey? It’s amazing at this stage to look back at the somber focus of our early themes:
• How long, O Lord? Will you forget me forever? How long will you hide your face from me?
• How long must I wrestle with my thoughts and every day have sorrow in my heart? How long will my enemy triumph over me?
And to think that the same psalmist wrote these questions just a few short verses before our theme for today: My heart rejoices in your salvation! I’m hoping that, as you’ve read the devotions and reflected on your grief, you’ve reached a place where you can honestly say to the Lord, “My heart rejoices in your salvation!” Here’s a fantastic, joyful image of what it means to rejoice in the Lord’s salvation:
“I delight greatly in the LORD; my soul rejoices in my God. For he has clothed me with garments of salvation and arrayed me in a robe of righteousness, as a bridegroom adorns his head like a priest, and as a bride adorns herself with her jewels” (Isaiah 61:10).
What an awesome image! Close your eyes and picture yourself being clothed by God in your garments of salvation. He’s stripped you of your sinfulness. He’s washed away every stain, scar, blemish, or imperfection in your heart. He’s clothed you as His bride! (No one has impeccable fashion sense like our amazing God!)
When you picture yourself being clothed with salvation this way, how can your heart help but rejoice? When you picture the people you’ve lost being clothed with salvation this way, how can your heart help but rejoice?
Prayer
Dear Heavenly Father, I praise you for your wisdom, might, and power. I praise you for your glorious plan of salvation. I praise you for washing me clean and clothing me with your salvation. My heart rejoices in you! Amen.
Saturday, October 30, 2010
Spoken For
Training for Today: Run 9 miles
Devotion: Spoken For
If you’ve ever felt alone in your grief, this devotion is for you. If you’ve ever felt like no one was there for you, this devotion is for you. If you’ve ever wished that someone could rise up to defend you against the world’s biases, boxes, and barriers, this devotion is for you.
Everyone wants to feel that they have someone to count on, especially during difficult times. We’d like to have an advocate, someone who can cheer us on. My heart has certainly craved that advocate relationship during my time of grief. But, as I reflect on the entire process, I’ve become certain of this: my heart is spoken for. Your heart is spoken for! Check it out:
9“But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people belonging to God, that you may declare the praises of him who called you out of darkness into his wonderful light. 10Once you were not a people, but now you are the people of God; once you had not received mercy, but now you have received mercy” (1 Peter 2:9-10).
God has claimed us as His own. We don’t need to fear the isolation of grief any longer. We don’t need to fear the consequences of sin any longer. When Jesus stretched out His arms on the cross, His eyes looked at you and He said, “You are mine.” Your heart is spoken for.
Because Christ has spoken for you, He is now your great advocate and champion. So on those days when you feel lonely, overwhelmed, and at a loss for words, know that Christ is rising up to defend you and empower you. Your heart is spoken for!
Prayer
Dear Lord, thank you for being my advocate and champion. Thank you for claiming me as your own! I rejoice in the peace and comfort I find in you. Amen.
Devotion: Spoken For
If you’ve ever felt alone in your grief, this devotion is for you. If you’ve ever felt like no one was there for you, this devotion is for you. If you’ve ever wished that someone could rise up to defend you against the world’s biases, boxes, and barriers, this devotion is for you.
Everyone wants to feel that they have someone to count on, especially during difficult times. We’d like to have an advocate, someone who can cheer us on. My heart has certainly craved that advocate relationship during my time of grief. But, as I reflect on the entire process, I’ve become certain of this: my heart is spoken for. Your heart is spoken for! Check it out:
9“But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people belonging to God, that you may declare the praises of him who called you out of darkness into his wonderful light. 10Once you were not a people, but now you are the people of God; once you had not received mercy, but now you have received mercy” (1 Peter 2:9-10).
God has claimed us as His own. We don’t need to fear the isolation of grief any longer. We don’t need to fear the consequences of sin any longer. When Jesus stretched out His arms on the cross, His eyes looked at you and He said, “You are mine.” Your heart is spoken for.
Because Christ has spoken for you, He is now your great advocate and champion. So on those days when you feel lonely, overwhelmed, and at a loss for words, know that Christ is rising up to defend you and empower you. Your heart is spoken for!
Prayer
Dear Lord, thank you for being my advocate and champion. Thank you for claiming me as your own! I rejoice in the peace and comfort I find in you. Amen.
Friday, October 29, 2010
Breathe Again
Training for Today: Cross-train for 55 minutes
Devotion: Breathe Again
After a period of grief, you’ll eventually feel some sense of peace and relief. The burden won’t feel so heavy anymore. You might even feel a sense of freedom as you realize you’d been trapped and stifled by a thick blanket of grief. It’s been hard to see beyond your immediate pain and surroundings. That blanket of grief has held you back in a place of darkness, longing for a breath of fresh air.
Much like this blanket of grief, our sins trap us, stifle us, limit our vision, and hold us in a place of darkness. That’s what we deserve. We’ve earned that spot under the blanket of sin, where there’s no room to move and no fresh air to breathe. But, God has destroyed sin and darkness through Christ:
7 On this mountain he will destroy
the shroud that enfolds all peoples,
the sheet that covers all nations;
8 he will swallow up death forever.
The Sovereign LORD will wipe away the tears
from all faces;
he will remove the disgrace of his people
from all the earth.
The LORD has spoken.
9 In that day they will say,
“Surely this is our God;
we trusted in him, and he saved us.
This is the LORD, we trusted in him;
let us rejoice and be glad in his salvation” (Isaiah 25:7-9).
Our shroud, the blanket of sin, has been destroyed! Come out into the fresh air and breathe again. Jesus has won salvation for us and for the ones we’ve lost. And the description of God’s work doesn’t stop there! Through our Savior Jesus Christ, the horrors of death are swallowed up. The tears and disgrace are gone. Breathe again.
You can count on God’s unfailing love for you. At the end of verse 8, it says, “The LORD has spoken.” What greater finality or assurance could you ask for? The One who hung every star in the sky, calms the sea, and tells the sun and moon when to shine is the same One who gives you the personal promise of salvation through Jesus. Because we can count on God’s promises, we can say in the words of Isaiah 5:9, “Surely this is our God; we trusted in him, and he saved us. This is the LORD, we trusted in him; let us rejoice and be glad in his salvation.”
Rejoice in the Lord! He’s lifted your blanket of sin, and He’ll lift your blanket of grief. Trust in His promises, come out into the fresh air, and breathe again!
Prayer
Dear Lord, thank you for setting me free from the stifling grip of sin. Set me free from my grief as well, and fill me with trust in your promises. Because of your love, I can breathe again. Amen.
Devotion: Breathe Again
After a period of grief, you’ll eventually feel some sense of peace and relief. The burden won’t feel so heavy anymore. You might even feel a sense of freedom as you realize you’d been trapped and stifled by a thick blanket of grief. It’s been hard to see beyond your immediate pain and surroundings. That blanket of grief has held you back in a place of darkness, longing for a breath of fresh air.
Much like this blanket of grief, our sins trap us, stifle us, limit our vision, and hold us in a place of darkness. That’s what we deserve. We’ve earned that spot under the blanket of sin, where there’s no room to move and no fresh air to breathe. But, God has destroyed sin and darkness through Christ:
7 On this mountain he will destroy
the shroud that enfolds all peoples,
the sheet that covers all nations;
8 he will swallow up death forever.
The Sovereign LORD will wipe away the tears
from all faces;
he will remove the disgrace of his people
from all the earth.
The LORD has spoken.
9 In that day they will say,
“Surely this is our God;
we trusted in him, and he saved us.
This is the LORD, we trusted in him;
let us rejoice and be glad in his salvation” (Isaiah 25:7-9).
Our shroud, the blanket of sin, has been destroyed! Come out into the fresh air and breathe again. Jesus has won salvation for us and for the ones we’ve lost. And the description of God’s work doesn’t stop there! Through our Savior Jesus Christ, the horrors of death are swallowed up. The tears and disgrace are gone. Breathe again.
You can count on God’s unfailing love for you. At the end of verse 8, it says, “The LORD has spoken.” What greater finality or assurance could you ask for? The One who hung every star in the sky, calms the sea, and tells the sun and moon when to shine is the same One who gives you the personal promise of salvation through Jesus. Because we can count on God’s promises, we can say in the words of Isaiah 5:9, “Surely this is our God; we trusted in him, and he saved us. This is the LORD, we trusted in him; let us rejoice and be glad in his salvation.”
Rejoice in the Lord! He’s lifted your blanket of sin, and He’ll lift your blanket of grief. Trust in His promises, come out into the fresh air, and breathe again!
Prayer
Dear Lord, thank you for setting me free from the stifling grip of sin. Set me free from my grief as well, and fill me with trust in your promises. Because of your love, I can breathe again. Amen.
Thursday, October 28, 2010
I'll Still Love You, Lord
Training for Today: Rest
Devotion: I'll Still Love You, Lord
Have you ever used a conditional phrase when telling someone you love them? I’ll give you a few examples. “Even though you really hurt my feelings, I’ll still love you.” “Even though you don’t deserve it, I’ll still love you.” “Even though you can’t cook, I’ll still love you.” You can insert your own examples into that scenario. The point is that using a conditional phrase like this means that you’re holding onto a piece of the negative while declaring your love.
This week’s theme revolves around the phrase “But I trust in your unfailing love.” The conditional nature of this sentence is implied in the word “but”. It’s like saying, “Even though you’ve allowed my suffering and hardship, I’ll still trust you, Lord.” Have you held onto the bitterness of your suffering while declaring your love and trust in God?
If anyone has the right to hold onto our negatives while declaring love, it’s our Heavenly Father. Our sinful ways don’t even deserve a statement that begins with the words “even though”. Yet, because of Jesus, our Father in Heaven looks down on us and says, “Even though you’ve forsaken me in your sinfulness, I’ll still love you.”
Jesus our Savior won that declaration of love for you! In the bitterness of His suffering on the cross, His heart overflowed with love for you. Romans 5:7-8 sums it up perfectly: “Very rarely will anyone die for a righteous man, though for a good man someone might possible dare to die. But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.”
When you’re tempted to use your suffering as a condition, as something you’re loving God in spite of, stop in your tracks. Instead, realize that your suffering is something you should love God because of. He wants you close. He wants to lead you. He wants to hold you in His arms in this life and the next! Even though you’ve doubted His ways, He’ll still love you!
Prayer
Dear Heavenly Father, forgive me for doubting you and for holding onto my suffering as a condition in my love for you. Set me free from this sinful thinking, and remind me of your unconditional love in sending Jesus to pay the price for my sins. Amen.
Devotion: I'll Still Love You, Lord
Have you ever used a conditional phrase when telling someone you love them? I’ll give you a few examples. “Even though you really hurt my feelings, I’ll still love you.” “Even though you don’t deserve it, I’ll still love you.” “Even though you can’t cook, I’ll still love you.” You can insert your own examples into that scenario. The point is that using a conditional phrase like this means that you’re holding onto a piece of the negative while declaring your love.
This week’s theme revolves around the phrase “But I trust in your unfailing love.” The conditional nature of this sentence is implied in the word “but”. It’s like saying, “Even though you’ve allowed my suffering and hardship, I’ll still trust you, Lord.” Have you held onto the bitterness of your suffering while declaring your love and trust in God?
If anyone has the right to hold onto our negatives while declaring love, it’s our Heavenly Father. Our sinful ways don’t even deserve a statement that begins with the words “even though”. Yet, because of Jesus, our Father in Heaven looks down on us and says, “Even though you’ve forsaken me in your sinfulness, I’ll still love you.”
Jesus our Savior won that declaration of love for you! In the bitterness of His suffering on the cross, His heart overflowed with love for you. Romans 5:7-8 sums it up perfectly: “Very rarely will anyone die for a righteous man, though for a good man someone might possible dare to die. But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.”
When you’re tempted to use your suffering as a condition, as something you’re loving God in spite of, stop in your tracks. Instead, realize that your suffering is something you should love God because of. He wants you close. He wants to lead you. He wants to hold you in His arms in this life and the next! Even though you’ve doubted His ways, He’ll still love you!
Prayer
Dear Heavenly Father, forgive me for doubting you and for holding onto my suffering as a condition in my love for you. Set me free from this sinful thinking, and remind me of your unconditional love in sending Jesus to pay the price for my sins. Amen.
Wednesday, October 27, 2010
Let the Waters Rise
Training for Today: Run 4.5 miles
Devotion: Let the Waters Rise
The inspiration for today’s devotion comes from two sources. The first is Psalm 32:6-7, which reads:
“Therefore let everyone who is godly pray to you
while you may be found;
surely when the mighty waters rise,
they will not reach him.
You are my hiding place;
you will protect me from trouble
and surround me with songs of deliverance.”
Picture for a moment the godly person referred to in this psalm when the mighty waters rise but don’t reach him. What does your picture look like? Is it literal? Do you picture someone being carried or lifted just high enough above the raging waters that he or she stays dry? In your image, pay attention to the contrast between the mighty waters rising and the position of being untouchable. In my mind, the contrast involves total distress and chaos on the one hand, with peace, security, and trust on the other hand. The psalmist refers to God as his hiding place. I love this image. If I have a secure place to hide, why should I fear the rising waters?
The second source of inspiration comes from a song that captured my attitude and attention during one of my losses. It’s appropriately titled, “Let the Waters Rise” by Mikeschair. As you read the lyrics, remember your early moments of loss when you may have felt that the waters were rising too quickly around you. Then, imagine yourself in the hiding place that’s described in the psalm above. Imagine yourself being held securely in your Father’s hands. As I look back on my own experience, I know that I was being held in this way. It was God’s protection that empowered me to say, “OK, Lord. If this is your will, let the waters rise.” Check out the words:
Don't know where to begin
Its like my world's caving in
And I try but I can't control my fear
Where do I go from here?
Sometimes it’s so hard to pray
When You feel so far away
But I am willing to go
Where you want me to
God, I trust You
There's a raging sea
Right in front of me
Wants to pull me in
Bring me to my knees
So let the waters rise
If You want them to
I will follow You
I will follow You
I will follow You
I will swim in the deep
'Cuz You'll be next to me
You're in the eye of the storm
And the calm of the sea
You'll never out of reach
God, You know where I've been
You were there with me then
You were faithful before
You'll be faithful again
I'm holding Your hand
There's a raging sea
Right in front of me
Wants to pull me in
Bring me to my knees
So let the waters rise
If You want them to
I will follow You
I will follow You
I will follow You
God Your love is enough
You will pull me through
I'm holding onto You
God Your love is enough
I will follow You
I will follow You
Ohhh
There's a raging sea
Right in front of me
Wants to pull me in
Bring me to my knees
So let the waters rise
If You want them to
I will follow You
I will follow You
I will follow You
Here’s a link to the actual song if you’d like to listen to it:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KIkQ7YVys_A
Prayer
Dear Lord, let the waters rise if you want them to. I know I’m safe in your hands! Should disaster, danger, or loss threaten me, remind that my life is yours. I will follow you! Amen.
Devotion: Let the Waters Rise
The inspiration for today’s devotion comes from two sources. The first is Psalm 32:6-7, which reads:
“Therefore let everyone who is godly pray to you
while you may be found;
surely when the mighty waters rise,
they will not reach him.
You are my hiding place;
you will protect me from trouble
and surround me with songs of deliverance.”
Picture for a moment the godly person referred to in this psalm when the mighty waters rise but don’t reach him. What does your picture look like? Is it literal? Do you picture someone being carried or lifted just high enough above the raging waters that he or she stays dry? In your image, pay attention to the contrast between the mighty waters rising and the position of being untouchable. In my mind, the contrast involves total distress and chaos on the one hand, with peace, security, and trust on the other hand. The psalmist refers to God as his hiding place. I love this image. If I have a secure place to hide, why should I fear the rising waters?
The second source of inspiration comes from a song that captured my attitude and attention during one of my losses. It’s appropriately titled, “Let the Waters Rise” by Mikeschair. As you read the lyrics, remember your early moments of loss when you may have felt that the waters were rising too quickly around you. Then, imagine yourself in the hiding place that’s described in the psalm above. Imagine yourself being held securely in your Father’s hands. As I look back on my own experience, I know that I was being held in this way. It was God’s protection that empowered me to say, “OK, Lord. If this is your will, let the waters rise.” Check out the words:
Don't know where to begin
Its like my world's caving in
And I try but I can't control my fear
Where do I go from here?
Sometimes it’s so hard to pray
When You feel so far away
But I am willing to go
Where you want me to
God, I trust You
There's a raging sea
Right in front of me
Wants to pull me in
Bring me to my knees
So let the waters rise
If You want them to
I will follow You
I will follow You
I will follow You
I will swim in the deep
'Cuz You'll be next to me
You're in the eye of the storm
And the calm of the sea
You'll never out of reach
God, You know where I've been
You were there with me then
You were faithful before
You'll be faithful again
I'm holding Your hand
There's a raging sea
Right in front of me
Wants to pull me in
Bring me to my knees
So let the waters rise
If You want them to
I will follow You
I will follow You
I will follow You
God Your love is enough
You will pull me through
I'm holding onto You
God Your love is enough
I will follow You
I will follow You
Ohhh
There's a raging sea
Right in front of me
Wants to pull me in
Bring me to my knees
So let the waters rise
If You want them to
I will follow You
I will follow You
I will follow You
Here’s a link to the actual song if you’d like to listen to it:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KIkQ7YVys_A
Prayer
Dear Lord, let the waters rise if you want them to. I know I’m safe in your hands! Should disaster, danger, or loss threaten me, remind that my life is yours. I will follow you! Amen.
Tuesday, October 26, 2010
Turbulence - Part 2
Training for Today: Cross-train for 30 minutes
Devotion: Turbulence - Part 2
While our approach to life’s turbulence impacts our personal outlook, it also impacts the outlook of those around us. My eyes were opened to this impact when my husband and I began traveling with our two children. When boarding the plane, my kids looked to my face for a positive or negative reaction. When the plane began racing down the runway, they looked to me for confirmation that the plane was supposed to do that. And, when those bumps occurred along the way, they turned to me for comfort. The turbulence wasn’t just about me anymore – I now had an audience.
My choices in coping with turbulence were changed right then and there. Remember the “white-knuckle grip of death”? It relaxed into a hand that could reach out in love. Remember the closed eyes that tried to make the turbulence disappear? They opened and offered a connection point that communicated understanding and comfort. And remember the angry looks that created helplessness? The anger gave way to compassion.
God’s plan for salvation has a say in this process as well. My sins had a “white-knuckle grip of death” on me. Jesus washed them all away as his hands reached out in love on the cross. My sins closed my eyes to the light of God’s Word. Jesus opened my eyes when he understood my sinful condition as it pierced his hands. My sins deserve God’s angry looks and eternal punishment, but God’s anger gave way to compassion through his only Son.
As long as I am on this earth, I will have an audience for my episodes of turbulence. Now, because of God’s great love for me, I can testify to God’s promises! I can reach out in love, offer my understanding and comfort, and express my compassion.
God’s plan of salvation is yours! His love, understanding, and compassion are yours! As you face life’s turbulence, I pray that the Lord fills you with the Gospel message to the point of overflowing. Turbulence is temporary; God’s promises are eternal!
Prayer
Dear Father, use me as a witness of your promises as I face life’s turbulence. Fill me with your love, understanding, and compassion that I may share your grace with those whose outlook remains on the temporary trials of this life. Amen.
Devotion: Turbulence - Part 2
While our approach to life’s turbulence impacts our personal outlook, it also impacts the outlook of those around us. My eyes were opened to this impact when my husband and I began traveling with our two children. When boarding the plane, my kids looked to my face for a positive or negative reaction. When the plane began racing down the runway, they looked to me for confirmation that the plane was supposed to do that. And, when those bumps occurred along the way, they turned to me for comfort. The turbulence wasn’t just about me anymore – I now had an audience.
My choices in coping with turbulence were changed right then and there. Remember the “white-knuckle grip of death”? It relaxed into a hand that could reach out in love. Remember the closed eyes that tried to make the turbulence disappear? They opened and offered a connection point that communicated understanding and comfort. And remember the angry looks that created helplessness? The anger gave way to compassion.
God’s plan for salvation has a say in this process as well. My sins had a “white-knuckle grip of death” on me. Jesus washed them all away as his hands reached out in love on the cross. My sins closed my eyes to the light of God’s Word. Jesus opened my eyes when he understood my sinful condition as it pierced his hands. My sins deserve God’s angry looks and eternal punishment, but God’s anger gave way to compassion through his only Son.
As long as I am on this earth, I will have an audience for my episodes of turbulence. Now, because of God’s great love for me, I can testify to God’s promises! I can reach out in love, offer my understanding and comfort, and express my compassion.
God’s plan of salvation is yours! His love, understanding, and compassion are yours! As you face life’s turbulence, I pray that the Lord fills you with the Gospel message to the point of overflowing. Turbulence is temporary; God’s promises are eternal!
Prayer
Dear Father, use me as a witness of your promises as I face life’s turbulence. Fill me with your love, understanding, and compassion that I may share your grace with those whose outlook remains on the temporary trials of this life. Amen.
Monday, October 25, 2010
Turbulence - Part 1
Training for Today: Run 4.5 miles
Devotion: Turbulence - Part 1
I hate airplane turbulence. The uncertainty, the stomach flipping, the rattling drink carts – all of it. Over years of travel, I’ve developed a few coping mechanisms that help me survive a turbulent flight. If you hate turbulence as much as I do, perhaps you can give these a try on your next flight. My first coping mechanism is called the “white-knuckle grip of death” and can easily be applied to the arm rest – or pant leg – of the person sitting next to you. Your fingers should be in severe pain by the time you let go; if not, your form is incorrect. My second coping mechanism is the “close your eyes to make it all go away” technique. I always imagine that this technique might result in falling asleep, only to find that we’ve landed and arrived at the gate by the time I wake up. That dream hasn’t come true for me yet. A final technique is to shoot an angry look at my husband (or whomever is seated next to me), as if to imply that the turbulence is somehow his fault. Can’t you fix this?
As I look back on my own experiences with pregnancy loss, I find that I’ve applied these same coping mechanisms as I’ve tried to deal with the aftermath. I’ve used the “white-knuckle grip of death” to cling to anything that makes me feel some sense of security and certainty. I’ve used the “close your eyes to make it all go away” technique to try and sneak away from the pain or the grief for a while. And, not so much on purpose, I’ve left my husband feeling even more helpless than he does when I wish he could make the airplane turbulence disappear. In his love for me, he wants to fix my pain, to make it go away. Does any of this sound familiar to you?
I think the reason many of us hate turbulence, life’s turbulence, is that it strips us of our perceived sense of control and replaces it with insecurity and uncertainty. To redirect this approach to turbulence, take a look at Psalm 16:1-2, 5-11:
Keep me safe, O God,
For in you I take refuge.
I said to the Lord, “You are my Lord;
Apart from you I have no good thing.”
Lord, you have assigned me my portion and my cup;
You have made my lot secure.
The boundary lines have fallen for me in pleasant places;
Surely I have a delightful inheritance.
I will praise the lord, who counsels me;
Even at night my heart instructs me.
I have set the Lord always before me.
Because he is at my right hand,
I will not be shaken.
Therefore my heart is glad and my tongue rejoices;
My body also will rest secure,
Because you will not abandon me to the grave,
Nor will you let your Holy one see decay.
You have made known to me the path of life;
You will fill me with joy in your presence,
With eternal pleasures at your right hand.
Did you catch all of the references to safety and security? The Lord is at my right hand; no “white-knuckle grip of death” necessary. I have set the Lord before me; I don’t need to cower away behind closed eyelids. And, I don’t need to render my husband or others around me helpless; together, we have the Lord as our refuge, the One who will fill us with joy and the hope of heaven. Now that’s the best care in the air (sorry Midwest)!
Prayer
Dearest Heavenly Father, when life’s travels leave me feeling overwhelmed and insecure, remind me of the words of Psalm 16. I praise you and thank you for the gift of your Son, and I trust your hand to guide me. Amen.
Devotion: Turbulence - Part 1
I hate airplane turbulence. The uncertainty, the stomach flipping, the rattling drink carts – all of it. Over years of travel, I’ve developed a few coping mechanisms that help me survive a turbulent flight. If you hate turbulence as much as I do, perhaps you can give these a try on your next flight. My first coping mechanism is called the “white-knuckle grip of death” and can easily be applied to the arm rest – or pant leg – of the person sitting next to you. Your fingers should be in severe pain by the time you let go; if not, your form is incorrect. My second coping mechanism is the “close your eyes to make it all go away” technique. I always imagine that this technique might result in falling asleep, only to find that we’ve landed and arrived at the gate by the time I wake up. That dream hasn’t come true for me yet. A final technique is to shoot an angry look at my husband (or whomever is seated next to me), as if to imply that the turbulence is somehow his fault. Can’t you fix this?
As I look back on my own experiences with pregnancy loss, I find that I’ve applied these same coping mechanisms as I’ve tried to deal with the aftermath. I’ve used the “white-knuckle grip of death” to cling to anything that makes me feel some sense of security and certainty. I’ve used the “close your eyes to make it all go away” technique to try and sneak away from the pain or the grief for a while. And, not so much on purpose, I’ve left my husband feeling even more helpless than he does when I wish he could make the airplane turbulence disappear. In his love for me, he wants to fix my pain, to make it go away. Does any of this sound familiar to you?
I think the reason many of us hate turbulence, life’s turbulence, is that it strips us of our perceived sense of control and replaces it with insecurity and uncertainty. To redirect this approach to turbulence, take a look at Psalm 16:1-2, 5-11:
Keep me safe, O God,
For in you I take refuge.
I said to the Lord, “You are my Lord;
Apart from you I have no good thing.”
Lord, you have assigned me my portion and my cup;
You have made my lot secure.
The boundary lines have fallen for me in pleasant places;
Surely I have a delightful inheritance.
I will praise the lord, who counsels me;
Even at night my heart instructs me.
I have set the Lord always before me.
Because he is at my right hand,
I will not be shaken.
Therefore my heart is glad and my tongue rejoices;
My body also will rest secure,
Because you will not abandon me to the grave,
Nor will you let your Holy one see decay.
You have made known to me the path of life;
You will fill me with joy in your presence,
With eternal pleasures at your right hand.
Did you catch all of the references to safety and security? The Lord is at my right hand; no “white-knuckle grip of death” necessary. I have set the Lord before me; I don’t need to cower away behind closed eyelids. And, I don’t need to render my husband or others around me helpless; together, we have the Lord as our refuge, the One who will fill us with joy and the hope of heaven. Now that’s the best care in the air (sorry Midwest)!
Prayer
Dearest Heavenly Father, when life’s travels leave me feeling overwhelmed and insecure, remind me of the words of Psalm 16. I praise you and thank you for the gift of your Son, and I trust your hand to guide me. Amen.
Sunday, October 24, 2010
But I Trust in Your Unfailing Love
Training for Today: Rest
Devotion: But I Trust in Your Unfailing Love
At long last, it’s time for the turning point in Psalm 13. Up until now, we’ve dealt with the shock and questioning behaviors in the grieving process, our need for answers, and the challenges that present themselves in our interactions with others. We’ve done quite a bit of wrestling, haven’t we! So now for the turning point: our theme for this week says to God, though the loss and the emotions to follow haven’t been easy to accept, “I trust in your unfailing love” (Psalm 13:5a).
Unfailing love! Did you catch that? God’s love hasn’t failed you. It’s easy to feel that somehow there’s a lapse in God’s love and attention to our lives when they are suddenly filled with pain. But, God’s love hasn’t failed you. It’s also easy to doubt that we’ll survive the grieving process and feel at peace again. But, God’s love won’t fail you!
Consider the words of Lamentations 3:19-26, 31-32:
19 I remember my affliction and my wandering,
the bitterness and the gall.
20 I well remember them,
and my soul is downcast within me.
21 Yet this I call to mind
and therefore I have hope:
22 Because of the LORD's great love we are not consumed,
for his compassions never fail.
23 They are new every morning;
great is your faithfulness.
24 I say to myself, "The LORD is my portion;
therefore I will wait for him."
25 The LORD is good to those whose hope is in him,
to the one who seeks him;
26 it is good to wait quietly
for the salvation of the LORD.
31 For men are not cast off
by the Lord forever.
32 Though he brings grief, he will show compassion,
so great is his unfailing love.
In this sinful world of the unexpected, God is your only constant. He offers the only perfect, unconditional faithfulness there is! Through His only Son, you have the certainty of heaven. Embrace the spirit of Psalm 13:5a for this week. During your Bible study, prayer time, and your runs, surrender your pain, anxiety, fear, and need for control to the unfailing love of your Heavenly Father!
Prayer
Dear Father in Heaven, I’m in awe of your unfailing love and faithfulness in my life. Forgive me for the times I can’t tell you’re there; your unfailing love tells me that you are. I put my trust in you! Amen.
Devotion: But I Trust in Your Unfailing Love
At long last, it’s time for the turning point in Psalm 13. Up until now, we’ve dealt with the shock and questioning behaviors in the grieving process, our need for answers, and the challenges that present themselves in our interactions with others. We’ve done quite a bit of wrestling, haven’t we! So now for the turning point: our theme for this week says to God, though the loss and the emotions to follow haven’t been easy to accept, “I trust in your unfailing love” (Psalm 13:5a).
Unfailing love! Did you catch that? God’s love hasn’t failed you. It’s easy to feel that somehow there’s a lapse in God’s love and attention to our lives when they are suddenly filled with pain. But, God’s love hasn’t failed you. It’s also easy to doubt that we’ll survive the grieving process and feel at peace again. But, God’s love won’t fail you!
Consider the words of Lamentations 3:19-26, 31-32:
19 I remember my affliction and my wandering,
the bitterness and the gall.
20 I well remember them,
and my soul is downcast within me.
21 Yet this I call to mind
and therefore I have hope:
22 Because of the LORD's great love we are not consumed,
for his compassions never fail.
23 They are new every morning;
great is your faithfulness.
24 I say to myself, "The LORD is my portion;
therefore I will wait for him."
25 The LORD is good to those whose hope is in him,
to the one who seeks him;
26 it is good to wait quietly
for the salvation of the LORD.
31 For men are not cast off
by the Lord forever.
32 Though he brings grief, he will show compassion,
so great is his unfailing love.
In this sinful world of the unexpected, God is your only constant. He offers the only perfect, unconditional faithfulness there is! Through His only Son, you have the certainty of heaven. Embrace the spirit of Psalm 13:5a for this week. During your Bible study, prayer time, and your runs, surrender your pain, anxiety, fear, and need for control to the unfailing love of your Heavenly Father!
Prayer
Dear Father in Heaven, I’m in awe of your unfailing love and faithfulness in my life. Forgive me for the times I can’t tell you’re there; your unfailing love tells me that you are. I put my trust in you! Amen.
Saturday, October 23, 2010
In Need of a Halftime Speech?
Training for Today: Run 8 Miles
Devotion: In Need of a Halftime Speech?
Consider this devotion to be a shout out to all of my fellow basketball players . . . Can you remember sitting in the locker room at halftime of a game that was off to a disastrous start? Can you remember the look in your coach’s eyes? Boy, oh boy, do I remember that. But I also remember that, somehow, that coach was able to turn things around, frame things positively, and even motivate me to push myself harder than ever. Are you in need of a halftime speech? Do you find yourself with your head in your hands dwelling on where you’ve been?
Today we’re going to look at a halftime speech in 2 Timothy 4. Paul is preparing Timothy as a witness for Christ, one who will stay true to sound doctrine. He warns Timothy about people who will stray from doctrine as they pursue their earthly desires. Though doctrinal disaster looms near, Paul turns things around for Timothy, frames things positively, and motivates him to push harder than ever. Paul says, “But you, keep your head in all situations, endure hardship, do the work of an evangelist, discharge all the duties of your ministry.” Go get ‘em, Timothy!
On the one hand, I feel convicted by Paul’s pep talk. I know I don’t always keep my head. I know I haven’t always had an enduring spirit as I’ve dealt with hardship. And, I know that, in this weakness, I haven’t always done the work of an evangelist or been faithful to my ministry. On the other hand, I feel encouraged by Paul’s words. It’s like the halftime pep talk during that basketball game that started out as a disaster. As I look at my life, my sin has turned me into a weak defender, allowing Satan to run up the score. When I think I’m in control during a fast break lay-up, Satan trips me up and steals the ball. Suddenly, I hear a buzzer that pauses the game, and I see my Substitute running onto the court to clean up my mistakes and lead me to a seemingly impossible victory! Because of my Savior, I have a right relationship with God and am both equipped and empowered to spread the good news.
Consider Paul’s halftime pep talk as you run today. Go get ‘em!
Prayer
Almighty God, I repent of the times that I let my struggles with hardship pull me away from sharing the Gospel with others. Thank you for sending your Son as my Substitute. Remind me of the right relationship I have with you, fill me with the words Paul spoke to Timothy, and lead me where you will. Amen.
Devotion: In Need of a Halftime Speech?
Consider this devotion to be a shout out to all of my fellow basketball players . . . Can you remember sitting in the locker room at halftime of a game that was off to a disastrous start? Can you remember the look in your coach’s eyes? Boy, oh boy, do I remember that. But I also remember that, somehow, that coach was able to turn things around, frame things positively, and even motivate me to push myself harder than ever. Are you in need of a halftime speech? Do you find yourself with your head in your hands dwelling on where you’ve been?
Today we’re going to look at a halftime speech in 2 Timothy 4. Paul is preparing Timothy as a witness for Christ, one who will stay true to sound doctrine. He warns Timothy about people who will stray from doctrine as they pursue their earthly desires. Though doctrinal disaster looms near, Paul turns things around for Timothy, frames things positively, and motivates him to push harder than ever. Paul says, “But you, keep your head in all situations, endure hardship, do the work of an evangelist, discharge all the duties of your ministry.” Go get ‘em, Timothy!
On the one hand, I feel convicted by Paul’s pep talk. I know I don’t always keep my head. I know I haven’t always had an enduring spirit as I’ve dealt with hardship. And, I know that, in this weakness, I haven’t always done the work of an evangelist or been faithful to my ministry. On the other hand, I feel encouraged by Paul’s words. It’s like the halftime pep talk during that basketball game that started out as a disaster. As I look at my life, my sin has turned me into a weak defender, allowing Satan to run up the score. When I think I’m in control during a fast break lay-up, Satan trips me up and steals the ball. Suddenly, I hear a buzzer that pauses the game, and I see my Substitute running onto the court to clean up my mistakes and lead me to a seemingly impossible victory! Because of my Savior, I have a right relationship with God and am both equipped and empowered to spread the good news.
Consider Paul’s halftime pep talk as you run today. Go get ‘em!
Prayer
Almighty God, I repent of the times that I let my struggles with hardship pull me away from sharing the Gospel with others. Thank you for sending your Son as my Substitute. Remind me of the right relationship I have with you, fill me with the words Paul spoke to Timothy, and lead me where you will. Amen.
Friday, October 22, 2010
Tearing Down the Walls
Training for Today: Cross-train for 50 minutes
Devotion: Tearing Down the Walls
In our last devotion, we discussed the concept of impression management. You’re certainly not alone if you plead guilty to managing others’ impressions of you, and you’re certainly not alone if you’ve built some pretty serious walls around you in the process!
Today’s devotion is inspired by the lyrics in Tenth Avenue North’s song, “Healing Begins”. Ponder some of the lyrics for a few moments:
So you thought you had to keep this up
All the work that you do
So we think that you’re good
And you can’t believe it’s not enough
All the walls you built up
Are just glass from the outside
So let ‘em fall down
There’s freedom waiting in the sound
When you let your walls fall to the ground
We’re here now
This is where the healing begins
This is where the healing starts
When you come to where you’re broken within
The light meets the dark
The light meets the dark
The purpose of this song is to open our eyes to the people around us who see our pain and want to offer support. Galatians 6:2 says, “Carry each other’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ.” Carrying each other’s burdens is an act of spiritual love and care! When we maintain the walls around us, we deny others the opportunity to serve God in this way.
As Christians, we have the privilege of belonging to a family of believers who can help us carry the weight of our burdens. But, that privilege is ours only through Jesus Christ, the One who carried the burden of all of our sins. Through His innocent suffering and death, we were marked as a member of His family.
So, no matter how high, tear down those walls that you’ve built around you, that you might take advantage of God’s blessing of fellowship.
Prayer
Dear Lord, help me to tear down the walls that I’ve used to protect myself emotionally. Open my eyes to the people you’ve put in my life that want to help and support me during this difficult time. Thank you for the blessing of Christian fellowship! Amen.
Devotion: Tearing Down the Walls
In our last devotion, we discussed the concept of impression management. You’re certainly not alone if you plead guilty to managing others’ impressions of you, and you’re certainly not alone if you’ve built some pretty serious walls around you in the process!
Today’s devotion is inspired by the lyrics in Tenth Avenue North’s song, “Healing Begins”. Ponder some of the lyrics for a few moments:
So you thought you had to keep this up
All the work that you do
So we think that you’re good
And you can’t believe it’s not enough
All the walls you built up
Are just glass from the outside
So let ‘em fall down
There’s freedom waiting in the sound
When you let your walls fall to the ground
We’re here now
This is where the healing begins
This is where the healing starts
When you come to where you’re broken within
The light meets the dark
The light meets the dark
The purpose of this song is to open our eyes to the people around us who see our pain and want to offer support. Galatians 6:2 says, “Carry each other’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ.” Carrying each other’s burdens is an act of spiritual love and care! When we maintain the walls around us, we deny others the opportunity to serve God in this way.
As Christians, we have the privilege of belonging to a family of believers who can help us carry the weight of our burdens. But, that privilege is ours only through Jesus Christ, the One who carried the burden of all of our sins. Through His innocent suffering and death, we were marked as a member of His family.
So, no matter how high, tear down those walls that you’ve built around you, that you might take advantage of God’s blessing of fellowship.
Prayer
Dear Lord, help me to tear down the walls that I’ve used to protect myself emotionally. Open my eyes to the people you’ve put in my life that want to help and support me during this difficult time. Thank you for the blessing of Christian fellowship! Amen.
Thursday, October 21, 2010
Impression Management
Training for Today: Rest
Devotion: Impression Management
Impression management (another fun communication concept) is the process of influencing and shaping the way others perceive us. In essence, we manipulate the verbal and nonverbal behaviors we display on the outside to create a positive image of what we’re like on the inside. As Shakespeare said, “All the world is a stage, and all the men and women merely players.”
This week’s theme asks us to ponder the relational challenges that surround us during a time of grief: “My enemy will say, ‘I have overcome him,’ and my foes will rejoice when I fall” (Psalm 13:4). As part of managing these relational challenges, we manage the impression we make on those around us.
So what impression have you been creating during your time of grief? How have you been shaping the way others see you? It’s common during such a difficult stretch to want to force the smile, mask true emotions, and “keep it together” from the outside. Those are the behaviors that create the most positive impression, right?
While impression management can benefit us and help us to “save face” in many social situations, its manifestation can lack authenticity. Impression management can tempt us to build walls around us, so that no one can see or sense our pain. But, if we allow impression management to falsely guide our interactions, we are faced with a difficult question: Did God allow your suffering and guide you through your grief in the hope that you would hide or mask the result?
If you’re intent on practicing impression management, then do it for the sake of the Gospel. Here’s Paul’s example of Gospel-minded impression management from 1 Corinthians 9:19-23:
“Though I am free and belong to no man, I make myself a slave to everyone, to win as many as possible. To the Jews I became like a Jew, to win the Jews. To those under the law I became like one under the law (though I myself am not under the law), so as to win those under the law. To those not having the law I became like one not having the law (though I am not free from God's law but am under Christ's law), so as to win those not having the law. To the weak I became weak, to win the weak. I have become all things to all men so that by all possible means I might save some. I do all this for the sake of the gospel, that I may share in its blessings.”
As an ambassador for Christ, use the person God created you to be (including what He’s done in you during your struggles) to win the souls of the people God has put in your life. So, rather than working so hard to shape the “earthly” impression others have of you, focus your efforts on shaping their impression of your awesome God! That’s an impression worth making!
Prayer
Dear Heavenly Father, forgive me for the times when I get caught up in managing my impression in the eyes of others. Instead, let them see you. Let them see the grace, mercy, and peace that you offer through the redeeming blood of Jesus! Amen.
Devotion: Impression Management
Impression management (another fun communication concept) is the process of influencing and shaping the way others perceive us. In essence, we manipulate the verbal and nonverbal behaviors we display on the outside to create a positive image of what we’re like on the inside. As Shakespeare said, “All the world is a stage, and all the men and women merely players.”
This week’s theme asks us to ponder the relational challenges that surround us during a time of grief: “My enemy will say, ‘I have overcome him,’ and my foes will rejoice when I fall” (Psalm 13:4). As part of managing these relational challenges, we manage the impression we make on those around us.
So what impression have you been creating during your time of grief? How have you been shaping the way others see you? It’s common during such a difficult stretch to want to force the smile, mask true emotions, and “keep it together” from the outside. Those are the behaviors that create the most positive impression, right?
While impression management can benefit us and help us to “save face” in many social situations, its manifestation can lack authenticity. Impression management can tempt us to build walls around us, so that no one can see or sense our pain. But, if we allow impression management to falsely guide our interactions, we are faced with a difficult question: Did God allow your suffering and guide you through your grief in the hope that you would hide or mask the result?
If you’re intent on practicing impression management, then do it for the sake of the Gospel. Here’s Paul’s example of Gospel-minded impression management from 1 Corinthians 9:19-23:
“Though I am free and belong to no man, I make myself a slave to everyone, to win as many as possible. To the Jews I became like a Jew, to win the Jews. To those under the law I became like one under the law (though I myself am not under the law), so as to win those under the law. To those not having the law I became like one not having the law (though I am not free from God's law but am under Christ's law), so as to win those not having the law. To the weak I became weak, to win the weak. I have become all things to all men so that by all possible means I might save some. I do all this for the sake of the gospel, that I may share in its blessings.”
As an ambassador for Christ, use the person God created you to be (including what He’s done in you during your struggles) to win the souls of the people God has put in your life. So, rather than working so hard to shape the “earthly” impression others have of you, focus your efforts on shaping their impression of your awesome God! That’s an impression worth making!
Prayer
Dear Heavenly Father, forgive me for the times when I get caught up in managing my impression in the eyes of others. Instead, let them see you. Let them see the grace, mercy, and peace that you offer through the redeeming blood of Jesus! Amen.
Wednesday, October 20, 2010
What is My Story?
Training for Today: Run 4 Miles
Devotion: What is My Story?
This week, we’ve been focusing on the challenge of voicing an account of our loss to the world. Today’s devotion will take us farther than the 3-4 sentences of the grave-dressing process. We’re going to tell a story.
Storytelling is an art form. Throughout His earthly life, Jesus certainly took advantage of storytelling in His parables. He recognized the power of a story to connect the unfamiliar to the familiar, to hold the audience’s attention, and to illustrate a point in a memorable way.
During today’s devotion and training, put on your storytelling hat and embrace this wonderful art form! To write your story, I’d like you to ponder the following questions during your run today:
• What was my life situation before the loss? What was it like to be me?
• What was the immediate impact of the loss on my life and the lives of those around me?
• What lessons have I learned about myself and my faith because of my loss?
• What has God accomplished in my heart through this loss?
• What opportunities might God have for me now that my faith and my heart have been refined by the loss?
As you reflect and form your answers to these questions, pay careful attention to the chronological sequence of the questions. When you’re done, your answers should flow together to create your story. Not only can your story benefit you in dealing with your grief, but it can also benefit those around you. God has accomplished something in you. God’s hand has been at work in your life. And now it’s time to share. To those who doubt God’s presence, you can offer assurance. To those who are dwelling in the early stages of grief, you can offer the example of hope in your own story.
Psalm 40:10 says, “I do not hide your righteousness in my heart; I speak of your faithfulness and salvation. I do not conceal your love and your truth from the great assembly.” Though your grief was and is and will be painful, God was and is and will be faithful. Write your story, and speak of God’s faithfulness to you as His own dear child.
Prayer
Dear Lord, give me the words to tell my story. More importantly, give me the words to tell the story of your faithfulness. Amen.
Devotion: What is My Story?
This week, we’ve been focusing on the challenge of voicing an account of our loss to the world. Today’s devotion will take us farther than the 3-4 sentences of the grave-dressing process. We’re going to tell a story.
Storytelling is an art form. Throughout His earthly life, Jesus certainly took advantage of storytelling in His parables. He recognized the power of a story to connect the unfamiliar to the familiar, to hold the audience’s attention, and to illustrate a point in a memorable way.
During today’s devotion and training, put on your storytelling hat and embrace this wonderful art form! To write your story, I’d like you to ponder the following questions during your run today:
• What was my life situation before the loss? What was it like to be me?
• What was the immediate impact of the loss on my life and the lives of those around me?
• What lessons have I learned about myself and my faith because of my loss?
• What has God accomplished in my heart through this loss?
• What opportunities might God have for me now that my faith and my heart have been refined by the loss?
As you reflect and form your answers to these questions, pay careful attention to the chronological sequence of the questions. When you’re done, your answers should flow together to create your story. Not only can your story benefit you in dealing with your grief, but it can also benefit those around you. God has accomplished something in you. God’s hand has been at work in your life. And now it’s time to share. To those who doubt God’s presence, you can offer assurance. To those who are dwelling in the early stages of grief, you can offer the example of hope in your own story.
Psalm 40:10 says, “I do not hide your righteousness in my heart; I speak of your faithfulness and salvation. I do not conceal your love and your truth from the great assembly.” Though your grief was and is and will be painful, God was and is and will be faithful. Write your story, and speak of God’s faithfulness to you as His own dear child.
Prayer
Dear Lord, give me the words to tell my story. More importantly, give me the words to tell the story of your faithfulness. Amen.
Tuesday, October 19, 2010
Gravedressing
Training for Today: Cross-train for 30 minutes
Devotion: Gravedressing
Ugh. A rather heavy title today, eh? Allow me to explain. Grave-dressing is actually a communication term (yep, I’m bringing you to my college classroom today)! It’s used to describe the introspective, reflective process that a person goes through as they try to get over a breakup. Specifically, grave-dressing is creating a 3-4 sentence summary of “what happened” to end the relationship. It allows the person to handle the awkwardness of having to explain the breakup with a comfortable, near-rehearsed, dignified response.
I think the concept of grave-dressing can be applied to child loss as well. In terms of child loss, grave-dressing means developing a brief account of what happened in a way that offers you as much comfort as possible while still satisfying the inevitable questions of those around you. Have you gone through the grave-dressing phase?
What’s awesome for us as Christians is that our view doesn’t end at the grave! Your grave-dressing conversations will be short-lived! Take a look at the evidence: “When the perishable has been clothed with the imperishable, and the mortal with immortality, then the saying that is written will come true: ‘Death has been swallowed up in victory’” (1 Corinthians 15:54).
How’s this for a grave-dressing account: death has been swallowed up in victory! The victory is mine. The victory is yours! The victory belongs to our children!
Prayer
Dear Heavenly Father, thank you for the gift of your Son. Through Him, the account of our losses no longer needs to revolve around the grave! Thank you for declaring victory over death and the grave! Amen.
Devotion: Gravedressing
Ugh. A rather heavy title today, eh? Allow me to explain. Grave-dressing is actually a communication term (yep, I’m bringing you to my college classroom today)! It’s used to describe the introspective, reflective process that a person goes through as they try to get over a breakup. Specifically, grave-dressing is creating a 3-4 sentence summary of “what happened” to end the relationship. It allows the person to handle the awkwardness of having to explain the breakup with a comfortable, near-rehearsed, dignified response.
I think the concept of grave-dressing can be applied to child loss as well. In terms of child loss, grave-dressing means developing a brief account of what happened in a way that offers you as much comfort as possible while still satisfying the inevitable questions of those around you. Have you gone through the grave-dressing phase?
What’s awesome for us as Christians is that our view doesn’t end at the grave! Your grave-dressing conversations will be short-lived! Take a look at the evidence: “When the perishable has been clothed with the imperishable, and the mortal with immortality, then the saying that is written will come true: ‘Death has been swallowed up in victory’” (1 Corinthians 15:54).
How’s this for a grave-dressing account: death has been swallowed up in victory! The victory is mine. The victory is yours! The victory belongs to our children!
Prayer
Dear Heavenly Father, thank you for the gift of your Son. Through Him, the account of our losses no longer needs to revolve around the grave! Thank you for declaring victory over death and the grave! Amen.
Monday, October 18, 2010
Carrying Around Death
Training for Today: Run 4 miles
Devotion: Carrying Around Death
Do you ever feel as though you’ve been carrying around death ever since your loss? While that may sound like a harsh question, here’s what I mean: do you feel as though people see you for your loss? The loss somehow becomes a label. We wear that label whether we want to or not, and we carry it with us into our interactions. And, the label somehow makes the people around us perform an interpersonal dance: Should I bring it up? Should I stay silent? What are the right things to say in a situation like this? When will this person (and our relationship) get back to normal?
We can’t erase these relational struggles, because we live in a sinful, imperfect, conflict-filled world. We can, however, reframe what it means to carry around death. Rather than an obstacle to communication, it becomes an opportunity to connect. Take a look at 2 Corinthians 4:10-12: “We always carry around in our body the death of Jesus, so that the life of Jesus may also be revealed in our body. For we who are alive are always being given over to death for Jesus' sake, so that his life may be revealed in our mortal body. So then, death is at work in us, but life is at work in you.”
While we carry around death in the sense that we’ve experienced loss, we carry around a death that has amazing eternal significance. We carry around the death of Jesus. Jesus’ death becomes our label; it says “Redeemed”. The verses above state that the purpose of carrying around Jesus’ death is so that His life may be revealed in us. We have the opportunity to carry His death, and our new label, into our interactions (yes, even the challenging conversations)!
Let’s reframe together. Let’s acknowledge the label of loss, but look at the conversations that result as opportunities to share the message of what we’ve gained from our relationship with Christ!
Prayer
Dear Heavenly Father, forgive me when I become impatient with well-intentioned support that leaves me feeling labeled. Fill me instead with the message of salvation as I interact with others. Empower me to share the “redeemed” label that your Son won for me on the cross! Amen.
Devotion: Carrying Around Death
Do you ever feel as though you’ve been carrying around death ever since your loss? While that may sound like a harsh question, here’s what I mean: do you feel as though people see you for your loss? The loss somehow becomes a label. We wear that label whether we want to or not, and we carry it with us into our interactions. And, the label somehow makes the people around us perform an interpersonal dance: Should I bring it up? Should I stay silent? What are the right things to say in a situation like this? When will this person (and our relationship) get back to normal?
We can’t erase these relational struggles, because we live in a sinful, imperfect, conflict-filled world. We can, however, reframe what it means to carry around death. Rather than an obstacle to communication, it becomes an opportunity to connect. Take a look at 2 Corinthians 4:10-12: “We always carry around in our body the death of Jesus, so that the life of Jesus may also be revealed in our body. For we who are alive are always being given over to death for Jesus' sake, so that his life may be revealed in our mortal body. So then, death is at work in us, but life is at work in you.”
While we carry around death in the sense that we’ve experienced loss, we carry around a death that has amazing eternal significance. We carry around the death of Jesus. Jesus’ death becomes our label; it says “Redeemed”. The verses above state that the purpose of carrying around Jesus’ death is so that His life may be revealed in us. We have the opportunity to carry His death, and our new label, into our interactions (yes, even the challenging conversations)!
Let’s reframe together. Let’s acknowledge the label of loss, but look at the conversations that result as opportunities to share the message of what we’ve gained from our relationship with Christ!
Prayer
Dear Heavenly Father, forgive me when I become impatient with well-intentioned support that leaves me feeling labeled. Fill me instead with the message of salvation as I interact with others. Empower me to share the “redeemed” label that your Son won for me on the cross! Amen.
Sunday, October 17, 2010
How Can I Speak?
Training for Today: Rest
Devotion: How Can I Speak?
For week 5, we’ll be looking at the next portion of Psalm 13, which reads, “My enemy will say, ‘I have overcome him,’ and my foes will rejoice when I fall’” (v. 4). When thinking about the grief process, these words capture the social stresses that flood over us immediately after the loss. Suddenly, we owe the world an explanation of what happened.
We can come up with many social reasons why our tongues are tied right after a loss. First, our own shock can render us speechless. Second, we fear the uncertainty involved in sharing the news with someone: How will this person respond? Will he or she build me up and reassure me? Will they offer unsolicited advice? Am I even ready to talk openly about what happened?
This week’s focus will be on loosening the tongue and preparing your account of the loss. We reflected last week on the importance of using our chains to advance the Gospel message. In order to fulfill this mission, we need to have our testimony at the ready! If you’re still feeling a bit reserved about using your story as a witnessing opportunity, focus on the Gospel message that’s at the heart of God’s will for your life (both the ups and the downs). Sometimes we unintentionally associate our feelings of grief with labels like embarrassment, shame, or fear. In response, take a look at the following verses:
“I am not ashamed of the gospel, because it is the power of God for the salvation of everyone who believes” (Romans 1:16).
“Yes, and I will continue to rejoice, for I know that through your prayers and the help given by the Spirit of Jesus Christ, what has happened to me will turn out for my deliverance. I eagerly expect and hope that I will in no way be ashamed, but will have sufficient courage so that now as always Christ will be exalted in my body, whether by life or by death. For to me, to live is Christ and to die is gain” (Philippians 1:19-21).
“For God did not give us a spirit of timidity, but a spirit of power, of love and of self-discipline. So do not be ashamed to testify about our Lord, or ashamed of me his prisoner. But join with me in suffering for the gospel, by the power of God, who has saved us and called us to a holy life—not because of anything we have done but because of his own purpose and grace” (2 Timothy 1:7-9).
How can you speak about what happened? Through the power of God and the guidance of the Holy Spirit! Trust the Almighty God’s call on your life – even in and through your grief. Someone out there who has suffered loss might need the very words that God puts in your heart and on your lips!
Prayer
Dear Lord, I come before you today and ask for a spirit of power, of love, and of self-discipline. Move me to proclaim the Gospel message, the very message that assures me of my home in heaven! Amen.
Devotion: How Can I Speak?
For week 5, we’ll be looking at the next portion of Psalm 13, which reads, “My enemy will say, ‘I have overcome him,’ and my foes will rejoice when I fall’” (v. 4). When thinking about the grief process, these words capture the social stresses that flood over us immediately after the loss. Suddenly, we owe the world an explanation of what happened.
We can come up with many social reasons why our tongues are tied right after a loss. First, our own shock can render us speechless. Second, we fear the uncertainty involved in sharing the news with someone: How will this person respond? Will he or she build me up and reassure me? Will they offer unsolicited advice? Am I even ready to talk openly about what happened?
This week’s focus will be on loosening the tongue and preparing your account of the loss. We reflected last week on the importance of using our chains to advance the Gospel message. In order to fulfill this mission, we need to have our testimony at the ready! If you’re still feeling a bit reserved about using your story as a witnessing opportunity, focus on the Gospel message that’s at the heart of God’s will for your life (both the ups and the downs). Sometimes we unintentionally associate our feelings of grief with labels like embarrassment, shame, or fear. In response, take a look at the following verses:
“I am not ashamed of the gospel, because it is the power of God for the salvation of everyone who believes” (Romans 1:16).
“Yes, and I will continue to rejoice, for I know that through your prayers and the help given by the Spirit of Jesus Christ, what has happened to me will turn out for my deliverance. I eagerly expect and hope that I will in no way be ashamed, but will have sufficient courage so that now as always Christ will be exalted in my body, whether by life or by death. For to me, to live is Christ and to die is gain” (Philippians 1:19-21).
“For God did not give us a spirit of timidity, but a spirit of power, of love and of self-discipline. So do not be ashamed to testify about our Lord, or ashamed of me his prisoner. But join with me in suffering for the gospel, by the power of God, who has saved us and called us to a holy life—not because of anything we have done but because of his own purpose and grace” (2 Timothy 1:7-9).
How can you speak about what happened? Through the power of God and the guidance of the Holy Spirit! Trust the Almighty God’s call on your life – even in and through your grief. Someone out there who has suffered loss might need the very words that God puts in your heart and on your lips!
Prayer
Dear Lord, I come before you today and ask for a spirit of power, of love, and of self-discipline. Move me to proclaim the Gospel message, the very message that assures me of my home in heaven! Amen.
Saturday, October 16, 2010
Naomi's Experience with Child Loss - Part 2
Training for Today: Run 7 miles (You'll feel unbelievable when it's done!)
Devotion: Naomi's Experience with Child Loss - Part 2
As Naomi grieved the loss of her husband and two sons, she urged her daughters-in-law, Ruth and Orpah, to leave her and find new husbands. Reluctantly, Orpah said goodbye, but Ruth was determined to stay by Naomi’s side. Ruth and Naomi traveled to Bethlehem, where Ruth eventually married their next of kin, Boaz. This marriage was significant for many reasons, but, most importantly, it meant that Naomi’s line would be carried on, leaving her empty no more. Let’s read Ruth 4:13-16:
“So Boaz took Ruth and she became his wife. Then he went to her, and the Lord enabled her to conceive, and she gave birth to a son. The women said to Naomi: ‘Praise be to the Lord, who this day has not left you without a kinsman-redeemer. May he become famous throughout Israel! He will renew your life and sustain you in your old age. For your daughter-in-law, who loves you and who is better to you than seven sons, has given him birth.’ Then Naomi took the child, laid him in her lap and cared for him. The women living there said, ‘Naomi has a son.’ And they named him Obed. He was the father of Jesse, the father of David.”
Through the marriage of Ruth and Boaz, Naomi now had a grandchild and was a direct ancestor to our Savior! What amazing blessings! In Naomi’s grief, it had been hard for her to imagine the greater purpose for her suffering. She felt empty and afflicted. In our grief, it’s difficult to imagine God’s greater purpose in allowing that suffering to enter our lives. We feel empty and afflicted. When those feelings strike, let us remember that Naomi’s story didn’t end there. God had greater blessings in mind for her. Your story doesn’t end there, either. God has greater blessings in mind for you as well, not the least of which is the mansion prepared for you in heaven through our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ!
“I am still confident of this: I will see the goodness of the Lord in the land of the living. Wait for the Lord; be strong and take heart and wait for the Lord” (Psalm 27:13-14).
Prayer
Dear Heavenly Father, like Naomi, I can’t always see your greater purpose for my suffering. Lead me to trust in you, confident that I will be with you one day in the land of the living. Amen.
Devotion: Naomi's Experience with Child Loss - Part 2
As Naomi grieved the loss of her husband and two sons, she urged her daughters-in-law, Ruth and Orpah, to leave her and find new husbands. Reluctantly, Orpah said goodbye, but Ruth was determined to stay by Naomi’s side. Ruth and Naomi traveled to Bethlehem, where Ruth eventually married their next of kin, Boaz. This marriage was significant for many reasons, but, most importantly, it meant that Naomi’s line would be carried on, leaving her empty no more. Let’s read Ruth 4:13-16:
“So Boaz took Ruth and she became his wife. Then he went to her, and the Lord enabled her to conceive, and she gave birth to a son. The women said to Naomi: ‘Praise be to the Lord, who this day has not left you without a kinsman-redeemer. May he become famous throughout Israel! He will renew your life and sustain you in your old age. For your daughter-in-law, who loves you and who is better to you than seven sons, has given him birth.’ Then Naomi took the child, laid him in her lap and cared for him. The women living there said, ‘Naomi has a son.’ And they named him Obed. He was the father of Jesse, the father of David.”
Through the marriage of Ruth and Boaz, Naomi now had a grandchild and was a direct ancestor to our Savior! What amazing blessings! In Naomi’s grief, it had been hard for her to imagine the greater purpose for her suffering. She felt empty and afflicted. In our grief, it’s difficult to imagine God’s greater purpose in allowing that suffering to enter our lives. We feel empty and afflicted. When those feelings strike, let us remember that Naomi’s story didn’t end there. God had greater blessings in mind for her. Your story doesn’t end there, either. God has greater blessings in mind for you as well, not the least of which is the mansion prepared for you in heaven through our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ!
“I am still confident of this: I will see the goodness of the Lord in the land of the living. Wait for the Lord; be strong and take heart and wait for the Lord” (Psalm 27:13-14).
Prayer
Dear Heavenly Father, like Naomi, I can’t always see your greater purpose for my suffering. Lead me to trust in you, confident that I will be with you one day in the land of the living. Amen.
Friday, October 15, 2010
Naomi's Experience with Child Loss - Part 1
Training for Today: Cross-train for 45 minutes
Devotion: Naomi's Experience with Child Loss - Part 1
For the next two days, we’re going to look at the Old Testament character of Naomi. During a time of famine, Naomi, her husband Elimelech, and her two sons and their wives all traveled to the land of Moab in the hope that life would be better there. What we find out instead is that Naomi’s husband died shortly thereafter. Her sons had married Moabite women (Ruth and Orpah), but died 10 years later.
Here’s what Naomi said to Ruth and Orpah after experiencing these losses: “It is more bitter for me than for you, because the Lord's hand has gone out against me!” Later she said, “Don't call me Naomi. Call me Mara, because the Almighty has made my life very bitter. I went away full, but the Lord has brought me back empty. Why call me Naomi? The Lord has afflicted me; the Almighty has brought misfortune upon me” (Ruth 1:13, 20-21).
I think it’s easy for us to empathize with Naomi; we remember, or perhaps still experience from time to time, the feelings of bitterness and affliction that came with our losses. It’s easy to say that our lives would be full if the loss hadn’t happened, but that now we feel emptiness.
What do you think God’s view of Naomi’s situation was? What do you think God’s view of your situation was? Does loss happen to afflict us or bring misfortune upon us? While it may feel that way at the time, read the following from Hebrews 12:18-20, 22-24:
“You have not come to a mountain that can be touched and that is burning with fire; to darkness, gloom and storm; to a trumpet blast or to such a voice speaking words that those who heard it begged that no further word be spoken to them . . . But you have come to Mount Zion, to the heavenly Jerusalem, the city of the living God. You have come to thousands upon thousands of angels in joyful assembly, to the church of the first born, whose names are written in heaven. You have come to God, the judge of all men, to the spirits of righteous men made perfect, to Jesus the mediator of a new covenant, and to the sprinkled blood that speaks a better word than the blood of Abel.”
The Lord draws us close through our sufferings and trials on this earth! We haven’t come to a place of darkness and gloom, but of the light and hope of heaven! The above verses from Hebrews 12 serve as a warning against refusing God’s call to us. God called to Naomi through her suffering, and He does the same for you. Through the blood of Jesus, we are so close to our little ones whose names are written in heaven!
Prayer
Dear Lord, help me to recognize your hand at work in my life, and help me to remember that you work all things for my eternal good. Amen.
Devotion: Naomi's Experience with Child Loss - Part 1
For the next two days, we’re going to look at the Old Testament character of Naomi. During a time of famine, Naomi, her husband Elimelech, and her two sons and their wives all traveled to the land of Moab in the hope that life would be better there. What we find out instead is that Naomi’s husband died shortly thereafter. Her sons had married Moabite women (Ruth and Orpah), but died 10 years later.
Here’s what Naomi said to Ruth and Orpah after experiencing these losses: “It is more bitter for me than for you, because the Lord's hand has gone out against me!” Later she said, “Don't call me Naomi. Call me Mara, because the Almighty has made my life very bitter. I went away full, but the Lord has brought me back empty. Why call me Naomi? The Lord has afflicted me; the Almighty has brought misfortune upon me” (Ruth 1:13, 20-21).
I think it’s easy for us to empathize with Naomi; we remember, or perhaps still experience from time to time, the feelings of bitterness and affliction that came with our losses. It’s easy to say that our lives would be full if the loss hadn’t happened, but that now we feel emptiness.
What do you think God’s view of Naomi’s situation was? What do you think God’s view of your situation was? Does loss happen to afflict us or bring misfortune upon us? While it may feel that way at the time, read the following from Hebrews 12:18-20, 22-24:
“You have not come to a mountain that can be touched and that is burning with fire; to darkness, gloom and storm; to a trumpet blast or to such a voice speaking words that those who heard it begged that no further word be spoken to them . . . But you have come to Mount Zion, to the heavenly Jerusalem, the city of the living God. You have come to thousands upon thousands of angels in joyful assembly, to the church of the first born, whose names are written in heaven. You have come to God, the judge of all men, to the spirits of righteous men made perfect, to Jesus the mediator of a new covenant, and to the sprinkled blood that speaks a better word than the blood of Abel.”
The Lord draws us close through our sufferings and trials on this earth! We haven’t come to a place of darkness and gloom, but of the light and hope of heaven! The above verses from Hebrews 12 serve as a warning against refusing God’s call to us. God called to Naomi through her suffering, and He does the same for you. Through the blood of Jesus, we are so close to our little ones whose names are written in heaven!
Prayer
Dear Lord, help me to recognize your hand at work in my life, and help me to remember that you work all things for my eternal good. Amen.
Thursday, October 14, 2010
Chains to Advance the Gospel
Training for Today: Rest
Devotion: Chains to Advance the Gospel
Today I’m going to share with you one of the greatest lessons I’ve learned during my grieving process: God doesn’t use suffering and grief only to change what’s on the inside, but He uses them to change what results on the outside as well!
I was studying the book of Philippians, and came to the section titled “Paul’s Chains Advance the Gospel”. Intrigued, I read the following words that Paul wrote while in prison:
“Now I want you to know, brothers, that what has happened to me has really served to advance the gospel. As a result, it has become clear throughout the whole palace guard and to everyone else that I am in chains for Christ. Because of my chains, most of the brothers in the Lord have been encouraged to speak the word of God more courageously and fearlessly” (Philippians 1:12-14).
Until I read these verses, I hadn’t considered that my earthly struggles could help advance the Gospel. In fact, I would’ve said that I tried to keep my earthly struggles to myself and push forward with the biggest smile I could muster. (Remember the isolation of pain?) But, Paul’s example turned the light on for me: I am not the only one who faces the spiritual or emotional struggles of grief. And, because I’m not the only one, I have an opportunity to witness my faith through the “chains” in my life.
So, it was through Paul’s chains that I was moved to open my mouth. As he said, because of his chains, “most of the brothers in the Lord have been encouraged to speak the word of God more courageously and fearlessly” (verse 14). So what does this mean for you?
God hasn’t used your grief to only change you on the inside; He’s expecting a return on His investment! God knew that you could handle your loss. He knew the spiritual and emotional journey you’d endure. And, He knew you’d be a witness for your faith through it all. So, let your chains advance the Gospel. Let everyone know that you’ve been “in chains for Christ” so that they will be encouraged to share the Gospel message as well.
Prayer
Dear Lord, help me to realize that my earthly struggles are not only used for my eternal good, but they can also benefit those around me. Open my eyes to others who might be grieving and fill me with the courage to testify to your grace and mercy! Amen.
Devotion: Chains to Advance the Gospel
Today I’m going to share with you one of the greatest lessons I’ve learned during my grieving process: God doesn’t use suffering and grief only to change what’s on the inside, but He uses them to change what results on the outside as well!
I was studying the book of Philippians, and came to the section titled “Paul’s Chains Advance the Gospel”. Intrigued, I read the following words that Paul wrote while in prison:
“Now I want you to know, brothers, that what has happened to me has really served to advance the gospel. As a result, it has become clear throughout the whole palace guard and to everyone else that I am in chains for Christ. Because of my chains, most of the brothers in the Lord have been encouraged to speak the word of God more courageously and fearlessly” (Philippians 1:12-14).
Until I read these verses, I hadn’t considered that my earthly struggles could help advance the Gospel. In fact, I would’ve said that I tried to keep my earthly struggles to myself and push forward with the biggest smile I could muster. (Remember the isolation of pain?) But, Paul’s example turned the light on for me: I am not the only one who faces the spiritual or emotional struggles of grief. And, because I’m not the only one, I have an opportunity to witness my faith through the “chains” in my life.
So, it was through Paul’s chains that I was moved to open my mouth. As he said, because of his chains, “most of the brothers in the Lord have been encouraged to speak the word of God more courageously and fearlessly” (verse 14). So what does this mean for you?
God hasn’t used your grief to only change you on the inside; He’s expecting a return on His investment! God knew that you could handle your loss. He knew the spiritual and emotional journey you’d endure. And, He knew you’d be a witness for your faith through it all. So, let your chains advance the Gospel. Let everyone know that you’ve been “in chains for Christ” so that they will be encouraged to share the Gospel message as well.
Prayer
Dear Lord, help me to realize that my earthly struggles are not only used for my eternal good, but they can also benefit those around me. Open my eyes to others who might be grieving and fill me with the courage to testify to your grace and mercy! Amen.
Wednesday, October 13, 2010
Running Uphill
Training for Today: Run 3.5 Miles
Devotion: Running Uphill
My typical running route ends with a climb. It’s not an incredibly difficult hill, but it’s there. And, by the end of a long run, it’s almost as if my legs can feel it coming. Ugh, ugh, and up we go. What amazes me is that the final climb of my runs somehow manages to feel like it takes forever, like I’m running in slow motion. (For those of you who’ve seen Monty Python and the Holy Grail, it’s like the knight who repeatedly runs toward the castle but never quite makes it!) While working my way up the hill, my mind fills with thoughts like, “Just imagine when you’ve made it up the hill . . . that will feel so great!”, “Can’t you feel the ice cold water refreshing your whole body as you drink it?”, and, “How great it will be to take a shower!” It’s as though my craving for the future gets me through the present.
At the end of my last run, I realized how much that uphill climb has in common with a time of grief. We feel like our grief will never end. We feel as though life is moving in slow motion. We long for the day when our mourning is over, when we feel a sense of normalcy again. We want to rinse off the trials of the past and experience a future of refreshment and renewal.
In the greatness of our amazing God, we have the hope of heaven at the end of our run on earth. Jesus, our Living Water, quenches your thirst and renews your soul day by day. He gave His life for you. He conquered the grave. He waits for you in heaven at the end of your climb! And, our craving for that future keeps us connected to Christ and gets us through the present. As Jesus said to the Samaritan woman at the well in John 4:10-14,
“‘If you knew the gift of God and who it is that asks you for a drink, you would have asked him and he would have given you living water.’ ‘Sir,’ the woman said, ‘you have nothing to draw with and the well is deep. Where can you get this living water? Are you greater than our father Jacob, who gave us the well and drank from it himself, as did also his sons and his flocks and herds?’ Jesus answered, ‘Everyone who drinks this water will be thirsty again, but whoever drinks the water I give him will never thirst. Indeed, the water I give him will become in him a spring of water welling up to eternal life.’”
Praise the Lord! Drink deeply, everyone!
Prayer
Dear Living Water, I praise and thank you for the refreshment and renewal that you provide for me everyday. How I long to be with you in heaven! While I am here, guide my footsteps and wash over me with your grace and mercy. Amen.
Devotion: Running Uphill
My typical running route ends with a climb. It’s not an incredibly difficult hill, but it’s there. And, by the end of a long run, it’s almost as if my legs can feel it coming. Ugh, ugh, and up we go. What amazes me is that the final climb of my runs somehow manages to feel like it takes forever, like I’m running in slow motion. (For those of you who’ve seen Monty Python and the Holy Grail, it’s like the knight who repeatedly runs toward the castle but never quite makes it!) While working my way up the hill, my mind fills with thoughts like, “Just imagine when you’ve made it up the hill . . . that will feel so great!”, “Can’t you feel the ice cold water refreshing your whole body as you drink it?”, and, “How great it will be to take a shower!” It’s as though my craving for the future gets me through the present.
At the end of my last run, I realized how much that uphill climb has in common with a time of grief. We feel like our grief will never end. We feel as though life is moving in slow motion. We long for the day when our mourning is over, when we feel a sense of normalcy again. We want to rinse off the trials of the past and experience a future of refreshment and renewal.
In the greatness of our amazing God, we have the hope of heaven at the end of our run on earth. Jesus, our Living Water, quenches your thirst and renews your soul day by day. He gave His life for you. He conquered the grave. He waits for you in heaven at the end of your climb! And, our craving for that future keeps us connected to Christ and gets us through the present. As Jesus said to the Samaritan woman at the well in John 4:10-14,
“‘If you knew the gift of God and who it is that asks you for a drink, you would have asked him and he would have given you living water.’ ‘Sir,’ the woman said, ‘you have nothing to draw with and the well is deep. Where can you get this living water? Are you greater than our father Jacob, who gave us the well and drank from it himself, as did also his sons and his flocks and herds?’ Jesus answered, ‘Everyone who drinks this water will be thirsty again, but whoever drinks the water I give him will never thirst. Indeed, the water I give him will become in him a spring of water welling up to eternal life.’”
Praise the Lord! Drink deeply, everyone!
Prayer
Dear Living Water, I praise and thank you for the refreshment and renewal that you provide for me everyday. How I long to be with you in heaven! While I am here, guide my footsteps and wash over me with your grace and mercy. Amen.
Tuesday, October 12, 2010
Beating the Body
Training for Today: Cross-train for 30 minutes
Devotion: Beating the Body
How’s your training going for you? Is your body feeling well used? It’s my hope and prayer that you’ve found your groove for making it through this entire training program. It is also my hope that you’ll say it was all worth it in the end! Let’s take a look at what Paul says about the worth of strict training in 1 Corinthians 9:25-27:
“Everyone who competes in the games goes into strict training. They do it to get a crown that will not last; but we do it to get a crown that will last forever. Therefore I do not run like a man running aimlessly; I do not fight like a man beating the air. No, I beat my body and make it my slave so that after I have preached to others, I myself will not be disqualified for the prize.”
What’s interesting about how these verses apply to us is that we fit into both categories of people that Paul talks about. We’re in training for a race, and we will receive a “crown” that will not last. (It will still be worth it!) But, we’re also redeemed children of God who will receive a heavenly crown that will last forever! It’s this eternal crown of hope that gives us our purpose and direction.
Paul uses this racing analogy to show us that, just like a competitive runner in strict training, we should expect hardship, struggle, and challenges in this life. Where the competitive runner has a tough workout, the spiritual runner faces a test of his or her faith. Where the competitive runner sticks to a strict diet, the spiritual runner turns from the desires and temptations of this world.
So, how’s your spiritual training going for you? (Perhaps that should have been my opening question!) I pray that Paul’s words sharpen your focus as you push your way through your grief and the training. Compete! Train! Pursue the crown! Though you’ve been through a difficult, emotional workout during your loss, it will be worth it in the end!
Prayer
Dear Heavenly Father, be with me as I train both physically and spiritually. Guide me, shape me, and lead me to the finish line. Fill me with faithfulness for this journey, Lord. Amen.
Devotion: Beating the Body
How’s your training going for you? Is your body feeling well used? It’s my hope and prayer that you’ve found your groove for making it through this entire training program. It is also my hope that you’ll say it was all worth it in the end! Let’s take a look at what Paul says about the worth of strict training in 1 Corinthians 9:25-27:
“Everyone who competes in the games goes into strict training. They do it to get a crown that will not last; but we do it to get a crown that will last forever. Therefore I do not run like a man running aimlessly; I do not fight like a man beating the air. No, I beat my body and make it my slave so that after I have preached to others, I myself will not be disqualified for the prize.”
What’s interesting about how these verses apply to us is that we fit into both categories of people that Paul talks about. We’re in training for a race, and we will receive a “crown” that will not last. (It will still be worth it!) But, we’re also redeemed children of God who will receive a heavenly crown that will last forever! It’s this eternal crown of hope that gives us our purpose and direction.
Paul uses this racing analogy to show us that, just like a competitive runner in strict training, we should expect hardship, struggle, and challenges in this life. Where the competitive runner has a tough workout, the spiritual runner faces a test of his or her faith. Where the competitive runner sticks to a strict diet, the spiritual runner turns from the desires and temptations of this world.
So, how’s your spiritual training going for you? (Perhaps that should have been my opening question!) I pray that Paul’s words sharpen your focus as you push your way through your grief and the training. Compete! Train! Pursue the crown! Though you’ve been through a difficult, emotional workout during your loss, it will be worth it in the end!
Prayer
Dear Heavenly Father, be with me as I train both physically and spiritually. Guide me, shape me, and lead me to the finish line. Fill me with faithfulness for this journey, Lord. Amen.
Monday, October 11, 2010
Broken
Training for Today: Run 3.5 miles
Devotion: Broken
Devotion: Broken
There came a point in my grieving process when I was finally broken. It was awesome. If I were to characterize my heart at that time, I would say it had surrendered control, loosened its grip, and left its stubborn ways behind. It had been crushed by an emotional blow, melted by the tears that followed, and strained of its stigmas, stereotypes, and standards. In those moments, I suddenly felt ready. Ready for what? I wasn’t exactly sure, but I felt an openness to God’s leading that was wider than ever. I was filled with an increased sense of empathy for others. I felt more connected to the people around me, stranger or not. I was broken! In one fell swoop, the words of Psalm 34:17-19 rang true for me:
“The righteous cry out, and the Lord hears them;
He delivers them from all their troubles.
The Lord is close to the brokenhearted
And saves those who are crushed in spirit.
A righteous man may have many troubles,
But the Lord delivers him from them all.”
I cried and was heard. I was troubled and delivered. I was brokenhearted and crushed, but the Lord saved me. But these words in Psalm 34 aren’t just for me. They’re for you as well! Through any trial, God wants to refine our hearts. He doesn’t refine them just for kicks, either. Refining happens for a purpose, His purpose. You might see yourself as broken, but God sees you as just about ready!
You are God’s child. You have been redeemed by His Son. You are now caught up in the identity of a perfect and holy God, a God whose hands are upon your heart. With that in mind, look at what your Savior has accomplished for you in Isaiah 61:1-3:
1 The Spirit of the Sovereign LORD is on me,
because the LORD has anointed me
to preach good news to the poor.
He has sent me to bind up the brokenhearted,
to proclaim freedom for the captives
and release from darkness for the prisoners,
because the LORD has anointed me
to preach good news to the poor.
He has sent me to bind up the brokenhearted,
to proclaim freedom for the captives
and release from darkness for the prisoners,
2 to proclaim the year of the LORD's favor
and the day of vengeance of our God,
to comfort all who mourn,
and the day of vengeance of our God,
to comfort all who mourn,
3 and provide for those who grieve in Zion—
to bestow on them a crown of beauty
instead of ashes,
the oil of gladness
instead of mourning,
and a garment of praise
instead of a spirit of despair.
They will be called oaks of righteousness,
a planting of the LORD
for the display of his splendor.
to bestow on them a crown of beauty
instead of ashes,
the oil of gladness
instead of mourning,
and a garment of praise
instead of a spirit of despair.
They will be called oaks of righteousness,
a planting of the LORD
for the display of his splendor.
Though you have been brokenhearted, captive, and a prisoner in darkness, find your freedom in the light of Jesus. Though you have been covered with ashes, the oil of mourning, and a spirit of despair, look to the One who gives you a crown of beauty, the oil of gladness, and a garment of praise. Though you have been broken, you are now made whole in and for the glory of God!
Prayer
Dearest Lord, thank you for showing me how much you love me through this process. Thank you for declaring me free from sin and darkness! Remind me that my feelings of brokenness are a new beginning. Lead me, Lord! Amen.
Sunday, October 10, 2010
Give Light to My Eyes, or I Will Sleep in Death
Training for Today: Rest
Devotion: Give Light to My Eyes, or I Will Sleep in Death
Last week, we asked God for some answers as we said, “Look on me and answer, O Lord my God.” We wrestled with the idea that we, as sinful human beings, won’t ever be able to fully comprehend God’s plan. We witnessed David’s experience with child loss and his response to God’s will. This week, we continue our searching behavior, imitating the plea of Psalm 13: “Give light to my eyes, or I will sleep in death.”
When was the last time your eyes were craving some light? Have you been in a power outage lately? Were you searching for something without the light on? Did a light burn out at the most inopportune time? Whatever the situation, I think we can all relate to the frustrations of being left in the dark. When crisis strikes, we too can feel left in the dark with respect to God’s will. And so we think things like, Show me what this means for my life, Lord. Reveal the lesson I’m to learn from this experience.
Our title this week pushes the idea of searching for light a bit farther than frustration, though, doesn’t it? It sounds desperate, impatient. Have you reached this emotional point while waiting for God to reveal His will and purpose? If you have, you may be tempted to run (and not in the sense of training to benefit a good cause)! You may be tempted to run to your own devices, your own human-generated means of control. While it may feel productive in the moment, you’ll only find yourself even farther from the light than before.
Cling to the One who offers us the light of life! Jesus said, “I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life” (John 8:12). Be patient in His leading. Be open to His direction. Be still in His promises:
1 "Arise, shine, for your light has come,
and the glory of the LORD rises upon you.
2 See, darkness covers the earth
and thick darkness is over the peoples,
but the LORD rises upon you
and his glory appears over you.
3 Nations will come to your light,
and kings to the brightness of your dawn.
4 "Lift up your eyes and look about you:
All assemble and come to you;
your sons come from afar,
and your daughters are carried on the arm.
5 Then you will look and be radiant,
your heart will throb and swell with joy;
the wealth on the seas will be brought to you,
to you the riches of the nations will come.
19 The sun will no more be your light by day,
nor will the brightness of the moon shine on you,
for the LORD will be your everlasting light,
and your God will be your glory.
20 Your sun will never set again,
and your moon will wane no more;
the LORD will be your everlasting light,
and your days of sorrow will end.
21 Then will all your people be righteous
and they will possess the land forever.
They are the shoot I have planted,
the work of my hands,
for the display of my splendor.
22 The least of you will become a thousand,
the smallest a mighty nation.
I am the LORD;
in its time I will do this swiftly” (Isaiah 60:1-5, 19-22).
What an amazing picture! God will bring His earthly purposes for you to light in due time. Though you may feel like you're in the dark, nothing compares to the darkness of sin. While you are waiting for some earthly light, revel in His eternal purpose for you. Because of your Savior, Jesus Christ, your sins are forgiven and you will see the light of heaven!
Prayer
Dear Heavenly Father, today I pray for your forgiveness and mercy. How I long for the light of heaven! Teach me patience and renew my faith in you. In the name of your Son, Jesus, I pray. Amen.
Devotion: Give Light to My Eyes, or I Will Sleep in Death
Last week, we asked God for some answers as we said, “Look on me and answer, O Lord my God.” We wrestled with the idea that we, as sinful human beings, won’t ever be able to fully comprehend God’s plan. We witnessed David’s experience with child loss and his response to God’s will. This week, we continue our searching behavior, imitating the plea of Psalm 13: “Give light to my eyes, or I will sleep in death.”
When was the last time your eyes were craving some light? Have you been in a power outage lately? Were you searching for something without the light on? Did a light burn out at the most inopportune time? Whatever the situation, I think we can all relate to the frustrations of being left in the dark. When crisis strikes, we too can feel left in the dark with respect to God’s will. And so we think things like, Show me what this means for my life, Lord. Reveal the lesson I’m to learn from this experience.
Our title this week pushes the idea of searching for light a bit farther than frustration, though, doesn’t it? It sounds desperate, impatient. Have you reached this emotional point while waiting for God to reveal His will and purpose? If you have, you may be tempted to run (and not in the sense of training to benefit a good cause)! You may be tempted to run to your own devices, your own human-generated means of control. While it may feel productive in the moment, you’ll only find yourself even farther from the light than before.
Cling to the One who offers us the light of life! Jesus said, “I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life” (John 8:12). Be patient in His leading. Be open to His direction. Be still in His promises:
1 "Arise, shine, for your light has come,
and the glory of the LORD rises upon you.
2 See, darkness covers the earth
and thick darkness is over the peoples,
but the LORD rises upon you
and his glory appears over you.
3 Nations will come to your light,
and kings to the brightness of your dawn.
4 "Lift up your eyes and look about you:
All assemble and come to you;
your sons come from afar,
and your daughters are carried on the arm.
5 Then you will look and be radiant,
your heart will throb and swell with joy;
the wealth on the seas will be brought to you,
to you the riches of the nations will come.
19 The sun will no more be your light by day,
nor will the brightness of the moon shine on you,
for the LORD will be your everlasting light,
and your God will be your glory.
20 Your sun will never set again,
and your moon will wane no more;
the LORD will be your everlasting light,
and your days of sorrow will end.
21 Then will all your people be righteous
and they will possess the land forever.
They are the shoot I have planted,
the work of my hands,
for the display of my splendor.
22 The least of you will become a thousand,
the smallest a mighty nation.
I am the LORD;
in its time I will do this swiftly” (Isaiah 60:1-5, 19-22).
What an amazing picture! God will bring His earthly purposes for you to light in due time. Though you may feel like you're in the dark, nothing compares to the darkness of sin. While you are waiting for some earthly light, revel in His eternal purpose for you. Because of your Savior, Jesus Christ, your sins are forgiven and you will see the light of heaven!
Prayer
Dear Heavenly Father, today I pray for your forgiveness and mercy. How I long for the light of heaven! Teach me patience and renew my faith in you. In the name of your Son, Jesus, I pray. Amen.
Saturday, October 9, 2010
David's Experience with Child Loss - Part 4
Training for Today: Run 6 Miles
Devotion: David's Experience with Child Loss - Part 4
Today marks the end of our time with David. During our last visit, we questioned David’s response to the news that his child was dead. We were certainly not alone in asking those questions ! Check out the reaction from David’s servants in 2 Samuel 12:21: “His servants asked him, ‘Why are you acting this way? While the child was alive, you fasted and wept, but now that the child is dead, you get up and eat!’”
OK, David, let’s have it! What were you thinking? Here’s what David said: “While the child was still alive, I fasted and wept. I thought, ‘Who knows? The Lord may be gracious to me and let the child live.’ But now that he is dead, why should I fast? Can I bring him back again? I will go to him, but he will not return to me” (2 Samuel 12:22-23).
That’s a pretty solid defense, wouldn’t you say? It’s interesting that David associated God’s graciousness with keeping his son alive. Perhaps we had the same reaction, that God’s graciousness would mean blessing us with more time with our children on the earth. While we can’t bring our children back, we can redefine God’s graciousness in our lives.
God graciously sent Jesus to this earth. God graciously offered Jesus’ life for us. God graciously conquered death through Jesus’ resurrection. Because of God’s grace, we can now confidently say with David, “I will go to him!” We will! It’s a certainty!
Prayer
Dear Heavenly Father, thank you for the promise of heaven that we have through your Son Jesus! Thank you for your graciousness in my life on earth and the eternal life I await in heaven! Amen.
Devotion: David's Experience with Child Loss - Part 4
Today marks the end of our time with David. During our last visit, we questioned David’s response to the news that his child was dead. We were certainly not alone in asking those questions ! Check out the reaction from David’s servants in 2 Samuel 12:21: “His servants asked him, ‘Why are you acting this way? While the child was alive, you fasted and wept, but now that the child is dead, you get up and eat!’”
OK, David, let’s have it! What were you thinking? Here’s what David said: “While the child was still alive, I fasted and wept. I thought, ‘Who knows? The Lord may be gracious to me and let the child live.’ But now that he is dead, why should I fast? Can I bring him back again? I will go to him, but he will not return to me” (2 Samuel 12:22-23).
That’s a pretty solid defense, wouldn’t you say? It’s interesting that David associated God’s graciousness with keeping his son alive. Perhaps we had the same reaction, that God’s graciousness would mean blessing us with more time with our children on the earth. While we can’t bring our children back, we can redefine God’s graciousness in our lives.
God graciously sent Jesus to this earth. God graciously offered Jesus’ life for us. God graciously conquered death through Jesus’ resurrection. Because of God’s grace, we can now confidently say with David, “I will go to him!” We will! It’s a certainty!
Prayer
Dear Heavenly Father, thank you for the promise of heaven that we have through your Son Jesus! Thank you for your graciousness in my life on earth and the eternal life I await in heaven! Amen.
Friday, October 8, 2010
David's Experience with Child Loss - Part 3
Training for Today: Cross-train for 40 minutes
Devotion: David's Experience with Child Loss - Part 3
Despite his pleading with God, David lost his son on the seventh day. David was not aware of the death right away, but his servants knew. They were afraid to tell David the news out of fear that he might do something desperate. Read what happened next in 2 Samuel 12:19-20:
“David noticed that his servants were whispering among themselves and he realized the child was dead. “Is the child dead?” he asked. “Yes,” they replied, “he is dead.” Then David got up from the ground. After he had washed, put on lotions and changed his clothes, he went into the house of the Lord and worshiped. Then he went to his own house, and at his request they served him food, and he ate.”
Does David’s thinking seem a little backwards to you? Wouldn’t you think the news of his son’s death would cause David to stay on the ground even longer? Forget hygiene, lotion, and fashion! Forget going out of the house! And, good grief, forget food!
What David demonstrates for us in these verses is a turning point. His actions speak of acceptance. They speak of being active in the Lord. And, they speak of being so confident in the Lord’s bidding that David was relaxed enough to eat.
Have you reached this point of acceptance? Have you taken on an attitude of resignation to God’s will and a response to His call of action? Let’s follow David into the house of the Lord and worship! For in God’s great wisdom, your child is at peace in heaven. And, in God’s great wisdom, you are still here as an instrument of that peace for others around you! As we sing in Psalm 85, I will hear what the Lord proclaims, peace to his people!
Prayer
Dear Lord, forgive me for the times I stay on the ground in my grief. Fill me with the news of your death and resurrection! Use me as an instrument of your peace, Lord! Amen.
Devotion: David's Experience with Child Loss - Part 3
Despite his pleading with God, David lost his son on the seventh day. David was not aware of the death right away, but his servants knew. They were afraid to tell David the news out of fear that he might do something desperate. Read what happened next in 2 Samuel 12:19-20:
“David noticed that his servants were whispering among themselves and he realized the child was dead. “Is the child dead?” he asked. “Yes,” they replied, “he is dead.” Then David got up from the ground. After he had washed, put on lotions and changed his clothes, he went into the house of the Lord and worshiped. Then he went to his own house, and at his request they served him food, and he ate.”
Does David’s thinking seem a little backwards to you? Wouldn’t you think the news of his son’s death would cause David to stay on the ground even longer? Forget hygiene, lotion, and fashion! Forget going out of the house! And, good grief, forget food!
What David demonstrates for us in these verses is a turning point. His actions speak of acceptance. They speak of being active in the Lord. And, they speak of being so confident in the Lord’s bidding that David was relaxed enough to eat.
Have you reached this point of acceptance? Have you taken on an attitude of resignation to God’s will and a response to His call of action? Let’s follow David into the house of the Lord and worship! For in God’s great wisdom, your child is at peace in heaven. And, in God’s great wisdom, you are still here as an instrument of that peace for others around you! As we sing in Psalm 85, I will hear what the Lord proclaims, peace to his people!
Prayer
Dear Lord, forgive me for the times I stay on the ground in my grief. Fill me with the news of your death and resurrection! Use me as an instrument of your peace, Lord! Amen.
Thursday, October 7, 2010
David's Experience with Child Loss - Part 2
Training for Today: Rest
Devotion: David's Experience with Child Loss - Part 2
We ended our visit to David’s experience with child loss when Nathan had just told David that the son born to him would die. The story continues like this:
“After Nathan had gone home, the Lord struck the child that Uriah’s wife had borne to David, and he became ill. David pleaded with God for the child. He fasted and went into his house and spent the nights lying on the ground. The elders of his household stood beside him to get him up from the ground, but he refused, and he would not eat any food with them” (2 Samuel 12:15-17).
When I first read these verses, the sentence that really hit me was “David pleaded with God for the child.” Wow, do I remember those moments with God. To plead with someone is to cry out to them, beg them, to offer arguments and emotional appeals. In many cases, pleading occurs when a decision has already been made against you. But, was God really against you after your child’s final heartbeat?
In response to this question, let’s read Hebrews 12:5-7: “And you have forgotten that word of encouragement that addresses you as sons: ‘My son, do not make light of the Lord’s discipline, and do not lose heart when he rebukes you, because the Lord disciplines those he loves, and he punished everyone he accepts as a son.’ Endure hardship as discipline; God is treating you as sons.”
Dear child of God, rejoice in the Lord’s great love for you! It’s easy to forget amidst pain and pleading that the Lord works all things out for our eternal good (Romans 8:28), not simply for our earthly good. Besides, God knows what it is to plead! You were previously struck by your sin, with no defense. The decision had been made. But God’s only Son came to earth for you, died on the cross, and rose again to plead your case! Through Jesus, we are declared innocent. The victory has been won!
Prayer
Dear Father in Heaven, thank you for pleading my case and the case of my child who is with you in heaven. When I recall those moments of pleading with you for my child’s earthly life, remind me of the earthly life, death, and resurrection of your Son! Amen.
Devotion: David's Experience with Child Loss - Part 2
We ended our visit to David’s experience with child loss when Nathan had just told David that the son born to him would die. The story continues like this:
“After Nathan had gone home, the Lord struck the child that Uriah’s wife had borne to David, and he became ill. David pleaded with God for the child. He fasted and went into his house and spent the nights lying on the ground. The elders of his household stood beside him to get him up from the ground, but he refused, and he would not eat any food with them” (2 Samuel 12:15-17).
When I first read these verses, the sentence that really hit me was “David pleaded with God for the child.” Wow, do I remember those moments with God. To plead with someone is to cry out to them, beg them, to offer arguments and emotional appeals. In many cases, pleading occurs when a decision has already been made against you. But, was God really against you after your child’s final heartbeat?
In response to this question, let’s read Hebrews 12:5-7: “And you have forgotten that word of encouragement that addresses you as sons: ‘My son, do not make light of the Lord’s discipline, and do not lose heart when he rebukes you, because the Lord disciplines those he loves, and he punished everyone he accepts as a son.’ Endure hardship as discipline; God is treating you as sons.”
Dear child of God, rejoice in the Lord’s great love for you! It’s easy to forget amidst pain and pleading that the Lord works all things out for our eternal good (Romans 8:28), not simply for our earthly good. Besides, God knows what it is to plead! You were previously struck by your sin, with no defense. The decision had been made. But God’s only Son came to earth for you, died on the cross, and rose again to plead your case! Through Jesus, we are declared innocent. The victory has been won!
Prayer
Dear Father in Heaven, thank you for pleading my case and the case of my child who is with you in heaven. When I recall those moments of pleading with you for my child’s earthly life, remind me of the earthly life, death, and resurrection of your Son! Amen.
Wednesday, October 6, 2010
David's Experience with Child Loss - Part 1
Training for Today: Run 3 Miles
Devotion: David's Experience with Child Loss - Part 1
For the next few days, we’re going to look at how David experienced child loss and how he responded to it. First, a little background . . .
The kings and armies, including David’s, were off to war. David stayed at his palace in Jerusalem during this time and sent Joab with his army to destroy the Ammonites and attack Rabbah. One evening, David saw Bathsheba from the palace rooftop. Because of her beauty, David sent for Bathsheba and slept with her. She conceived and sent word to David.
David plotted and schemed to cover up this sin. He sent for Uriah, Bathsheba’s husband who was fighting in David’s army. David got him drunk, hoping that Uriah would then sleep with Bathsheba and cause the pregnancy to look like a direct result of that encounter. This plan failed. David plotted again, this time to have Uriah put on the front lines of battle, where his death was a certainty. Uriah was killed, and Bathsheba eventually became David’s wife. This plan succeeded in David’s eyes, but 2 Samuel 11:27 says, “But the thing David had done displeased the Lord.”
The Lord sent Nathan to confront David about this sin. After recognizing his guilt, David confessed his sins. Nathan said, “The Lord has taken away your sin. You are not going to die. But because by doing this you have made the enemies of the Lord show utter contempt, the son born to you will die” (2 Samuel 11:13-14). To be continued . . .
I know it’s difficult to pause at this point in the plot, but it forces us to dig deeply into those first emotions we experienced after we realized our child would not be with us any longer. As I put myself in David’s shoes as he listened to this news, I wonder if my thought process would have gone something like this: Lord, thank you for your forgiveness! I’m not going to die? Thank you for preserving my life, Lord. How gracious! Wait . . . my son . . . Take me! Take me! Spare this little life! In those moments of realizing what was to come, do you think David felt guilty that his own life was spared? Did you ever wish you had been able to take the place of your child, that he or she might live?
While you contemplate those questions, check out Romans 14:8-9: “If we live, we live to the Lord; and if we die, we die to the Lord. So, whether we live or die, we belong to the Lord. For this very reason, Christ died and returned to life so that he might be the Lord of both the dead and the living.” We are still here. We still have a purpose in the Lord. We are united with our children in Christ, Lord of both the dead and the living!
Prayer
Heavenly Father, thank you for sending your Son to wash my sins away and give me the gift of eternal life. Help me to live my life for you, knowing that you still have a purpose and a calling on my life. Amen.
Devotion: David's Experience with Child Loss - Part 1
For the next few days, we’re going to look at how David experienced child loss and how he responded to it. First, a little background . . .
The kings and armies, including David’s, were off to war. David stayed at his palace in Jerusalem during this time and sent Joab with his army to destroy the Ammonites and attack Rabbah. One evening, David saw Bathsheba from the palace rooftop. Because of her beauty, David sent for Bathsheba and slept with her. She conceived and sent word to David.
David plotted and schemed to cover up this sin. He sent for Uriah, Bathsheba’s husband who was fighting in David’s army. David got him drunk, hoping that Uriah would then sleep with Bathsheba and cause the pregnancy to look like a direct result of that encounter. This plan failed. David plotted again, this time to have Uriah put on the front lines of battle, where his death was a certainty. Uriah was killed, and Bathsheba eventually became David’s wife. This plan succeeded in David’s eyes, but 2 Samuel 11:27 says, “But the thing David had done displeased the Lord.”
The Lord sent Nathan to confront David about this sin. After recognizing his guilt, David confessed his sins. Nathan said, “The Lord has taken away your sin. You are not going to die. But because by doing this you have made the enemies of the Lord show utter contempt, the son born to you will die” (2 Samuel 11:13-14). To be continued . . .
I know it’s difficult to pause at this point in the plot, but it forces us to dig deeply into those first emotions we experienced after we realized our child would not be with us any longer. As I put myself in David’s shoes as he listened to this news, I wonder if my thought process would have gone something like this: Lord, thank you for your forgiveness! I’m not going to die? Thank you for preserving my life, Lord. How gracious! Wait . . . my son . . . Take me! Take me! Spare this little life! In those moments of realizing what was to come, do you think David felt guilty that his own life was spared? Did you ever wish you had been able to take the place of your child, that he or she might live?
While you contemplate those questions, check out Romans 14:8-9: “If we live, we live to the Lord; and if we die, we die to the Lord. So, whether we live or die, we belong to the Lord. For this very reason, Christ died and returned to life so that he might be the Lord of both the dead and the living.” We are still here. We still have a purpose in the Lord. We are united with our children in Christ, Lord of both the dead and the living!
Prayer
Heavenly Father, thank you for sending your Son to wash my sins away and give me the gift of eternal life. Help me to live my life for you, knowing that you still have a purpose and a calling on my life. Amen.
Tuesday, October 5, 2010
Letting Go
Training for Today: Cross-train for 30 minutes
Devotion: Letting Go
Remember fighting over a toy with your siblings or friends? Picture the scene: two children, each with his clutches on the same toy. A tug-of-war ensues. Grips get tighter, faces get angrier, and voices get louder. Why all the fuss? Each child believes he has a right to the toy. Each child wants control. Each child wants instant gratification. As onlookers, it might be easy for us to say, “It’s not worth fighting over. Find something else to play with. Just let go.” But, do you remember how difficult it was to be the one to let go after such a battle had taken place? Somehow it feels like defeat. We’ve lost something, and our pride is crushed.
We might be tempted to think that we’re over fighting for things now that we’re adults. Ahem, I beg to differ. How would you describe your “grip” on your life and the things in it? Are you fighting with God over control?
As a person who likes to feel a sense of control, I easily fall into the trap of believing that, if I let go, somehow things will fall apart. Somehow it will be like admitting weakness. And, just like that child, I might feel like I’ve lost something and my pride would be crushed. To refocus, read with me the words of 1 Peter 5:5b-7:
“‘God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble.’ Humble yourselves, therefore, under God's mighty hand, that he may lift you up in due time. Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you.”
Can’t you feel the tension of control melting away as you read those words? Our lives truly are under God’s direction! Let go. Your child’s life was under God’s direction. Let go. God wants to take on your anxieties. Let go. God wants to reveal His plan for you when the timing is right. Let go. Through Christ, your future has been won for you; your sins, failures, and shortcomings are now replaced with the perfection of Christ. Let go!
Prayer
Dear Lord God, forgive me for thinking that I can somehow take control over your will. My times truly are in your hands. Open my heart and my hands; loosen my grip on the things of this world. I trust your timing. Amen.
Devotion: Letting Go
Remember fighting over a toy with your siblings or friends? Picture the scene: two children, each with his clutches on the same toy. A tug-of-war ensues. Grips get tighter, faces get angrier, and voices get louder. Why all the fuss? Each child believes he has a right to the toy. Each child wants control. Each child wants instant gratification. As onlookers, it might be easy for us to say, “It’s not worth fighting over. Find something else to play with. Just let go.” But, do you remember how difficult it was to be the one to let go after such a battle had taken place? Somehow it feels like defeat. We’ve lost something, and our pride is crushed.
We might be tempted to think that we’re over fighting for things now that we’re adults. Ahem, I beg to differ. How would you describe your “grip” on your life and the things in it? Are you fighting with God over control?
As a person who likes to feel a sense of control, I easily fall into the trap of believing that, if I let go, somehow things will fall apart. Somehow it will be like admitting weakness. And, just like that child, I might feel like I’ve lost something and my pride would be crushed. To refocus, read with me the words of 1 Peter 5:5b-7:
“‘God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble.’ Humble yourselves, therefore, under God's mighty hand, that he may lift you up in due time. Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you.”
Can’t you feel the tension of control melting away as you read those words? Our lives truly are under God’s direction! Let go. Your child’s life was under God’s direction. Let go. God wants to take on your anxieties. Let go. God wants to reveal His plan for you when the timing is right. Let go. Through Christ, your future has been won for you; your sins, failures, and shortcomings are now replaced with the perfection of Christ. Let go!
Prayer
Dear Lord God, forgive me for thinking that I can somehow take control over your will. My times truly are in your hands. Open my heart and my hands; loosen my grip on the things of this world. I trust your timing. Amen.
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